EE R F
HEALTHY
LIVING
HEALTHY
PLANET
Women’s Wellness Edition
Her Soul in Bloom
Empowering Self-Care Strategies
Toxic Legacy
Keeping Abreast of Implant Perils
Spiritual Calling
The Rise of the Divine Feminine
May 2019 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com May 2019
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The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center z
The Natural Choice
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.
Doesn't It Make Sense To See The Authority?
Join our FREE online health newsletter! 501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairfield, CT | 203-371-0300 | WholeBodyDentistry.com
Caring Integrative Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center
Our integrative approach treats a wide range of conditions including:
Adam Breiner, ND Brain Health Lyme Disease
David Brady, ND, CCN Fibromyalgia Thyroid Conditions
ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Chronic Fatigue or Fatigue Concerns
Insomnia Lyme Disease Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain
Difficulting Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromyalgia Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders
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We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:
David Johnston, DO Osteopathic Medicine Cranial Osteopathy
Elena Sokolova, MD, ND Oriental Medicine Female Health
Hyperbaric Oxygen Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine
Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization Detoxification Pulsed Magnetic Field Therapy
Bio-identical Hormone Therapy PRP & Stem Cell PEMF & Bemer IV Nutrient & Chelation Therapy Thermography Cranial Osteopathy
To learn more, watch our website videos.
Whole-Body Medicine, LLC ~ The Natural Approach for Optimal Health 2
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairfield, CT | 203-371-8258 | WholeBodyMed.com Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
September 13–15, 2019 Riverside Park & Mortensen Riverfront Plaza * Hartford, CT
yoga * music * wellness * food * dance Experience the Spirit Festival, a celebration of wellness, yoga, music, and dance — in affiliation with Riverfront Recapture and BaliSpirit Festival. This event will provide a safe and moving space for discovering new paths to harmony, healing, creativity, and community.
spirityogafestival.com May 2019
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Contents
HILDA DEMIRJIAN of Persia Laser and Skin Care Center SINCE 1974
Love your skin!
24 CT WELLNESS
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Non-Invasive, Holistic Treatments LASER COLLAGEN TREATMENT Effective on the full face, neck and body for: Fine Lines & Wrinkles • Sun Damage • Brown Spots Scars • Dark Circles • Rosacea • Acne • Cellulite Stretch Marks • Skin Tightening • Turkey Neck
CELEBRATES 10 YEARS
26 A CONVERSATION WITH Maggie Gotterer, Executive Director of Two Coyotes Wilderness School
32 TOXIC LEGACY
Breast Implant Warriors Unite
30 REDISCOVER THE
Come join us on this Mother’s Day weekend as we celebrate the spirit and wisdom of the Divine Feminine. Explore the ancient stories of the goddess.
FELT SENSE Connecting with the
Participate in movement and song.
View the Divine Feminine art show; meet the artist.
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Experience the Salt Cave at The Red Barn. Body’s Wisdom
Paint your face with goddess symbols. Shop for gifts for those you celebrate on this special weekend!
36 HER SOUL IN BLOOM
_____________________________________________
Event facilitated by Author & Intuitive Gloria Amendola
and Janicefor Juliano, Director of The Redof BarnLife Self-Care All Stages Admission fee:
40 DIVINE FEMININE $15 by May 4
RADIO FREQUENCY (R&F) For fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, dark circles around the eyes and mouth; skin tightening & plumping.
RISING
Event venue is The Red Barn in Durham, CT
Event is family-friendly; kids are free
Pre-registration encouraged for Salt Cave sessions
FMI or to register: holygrailmary@gmail.com
IN YOUR EYES
“Dear Hilda, my close friends have noticed a major improvement in my face with only one treatment! I love that this is holistic and non-invasive. I trust you completely!” Tara
HILDA DEMIRJIAN of Persia SKIN CARE PRODUCTS Distributors Desired!
Free Consultations
914-374-1756
34 South Broadway, Suite 607 White Plains, NY 10601 161 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
HildaDemirjianLaser.com 8 HildaDemirjianSkincare.com Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
42 IRIDOLOGY: POWER
LASER HAIR REMOVAL FOR ALL COMPLEXIONS For ALL areas on the body, a short course of treatment, accurate and non-invasive. STOP HAIR LOSS! Laser treatment is a holistic non-invasive way to stop hair loss, proven effective for more than a decade. VAGINAL REJUVENATION Laser treatments help get rid of saggy, dark or irritated skin tissue. Safe and non-invasive; proven for over a decade.
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$20 after May 4
_______________________________________________
How You Look is How You Be
44 SPIRITUAL CALLING
46
Shamans and Mystics: Surrender to Grace
46 SHED OLD ATTITUDES WITH YOUR CLOTHES Be Empowered by Social Nudism
DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 17 kudos 18 eco tip 19 global briefs 22 health briefs 24 community
spotlight 28 mastering yoga
eNaturalAwakenings.com
32 healing ways 34 fit body 52 naturally
healthy pet 57 calendar 62 classified 63 resource guide 70 inspiration 70 ad index
Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.
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Master’s Programs for Teachers
Thrive, Not Just Survive in the 21st Century!
Master of Arts Degrees and 6th Year Equivalent Programs Increase Your Salary — Affordable Payments 1 Weekend Per Month — 2 Years
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The Graduate Institute’s Masters Degrees are subject-specific approved by the Connecticut State Department of Education
The Graduate Institute is a stateaccredited graduate school dedicated to promoting an Integrative and Holistic Worldview through the study of Health, Wellness, Education and Personal and Professional Transformation.
Voted #1 Holistic School!
M.A. Integrative Health & Healing Learn about the harmonious functioning of all the imensions that constitute the human being in this Master of Arts Program. Examines the importance of health, wellness and mindfulness from a holistic perspective, exploring prevention and healing.
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.
M.A. Learning and Thinking Explore a philosophy of education rooted in relationship, holism, and meaning in this program that is predicated on establishing a New Culture of Learning while developing the knowledge, skills, competencies, and imagination needed for a world in constant flux.
M.A. Writing and Oral Traditions Discover your authentic voice and create compelling written work through study with best-selling authors, professional editors, award-winning oral storytellers, recognized playwrights, acclaimed literary critics and renowned scholars. Plus, access to TGI’s Publishing Center to help you get your first book published.
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 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
www.learn.edu • 203.874.4252 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT Off Campus Programs Offered in Fairfield County
May 2019
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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET
FAIRFIELD COUNTY/ HOUSATONIC VALLEY PUBLISHER Nicole Miale EDITOR Michelle Bense DESIGN & PRODUCTION Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Concetta Bibens Paige Dest Jennifer Hirschberg-Wise Kelly McCarthy SALES & MARKETING Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale WEBSITE Erica Mills DISTRIBUTION Man in Motion LLC
CONTACT US 137 Danbury Rd, #323, New Milford, CT 06776 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.
NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman COO/ FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2019 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. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.
letter from publisher
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enjoy spring because it is a time of rebirth, bloom and possibility. Everywhere you look, there are new buds and flowers, greener grass, butterflies, and even bugs emerging. It makes me feel good, and more hopeful, when I see such signs of renewal around me. In this month’s Women’s Wellness edition, we consider this idea of blooming, specifically as it relates to feeling empowered as an individual. Unlike trees and flowers, as individuals we can bloom any time we want and anywhere Nicole Miale we’re planted. However, our blossoming may require us to take some conscious action or reconnect with our inner guidance system. How often do you check in with your Self? Are you where you would like to be? Have you fulfilled your goals and then created new ones? Many of us begin with dreams that may be derailed along the way as we seek to achieve them, for a variety of reasons and through a multitude of mechanisms. But here’s the good news: no matter where you begin, you have the intentional ability it takes to manifest what holds meaning for you as an individual. It may take small steps over a long time to bring yourself to where you want to be. It may require slowing down and pausing before launching forward. It may simply mean placing self-care on your own ToDo list each day. No matter what you do to help yourself bloom, there is nothing more worth your energy. There are many tools available to support you; several excellent articles from local experts offer suggestions this month. When I was in graduate school, I was particularly fascinated to become aware of and study the intersection of spirituality and health. I had no particular affinity for a single religion and to that point had little connection with spiritual matters at all, so investigating more spiritual and even mystical themes has been a revelation to me over the past decade. Many experts suggest that we are at the edge of a new age defined in part by the rebalancing of masculine and feminine energies. As part of this Women’s Wellness issue, we invited some local contributors to weigh in on related spiritual topics. My wish for you this month is a blossoming of abundance, joy and blessings. May you receive more than you need and take a moment each day to appreciate all you already have. To our terrific advertisers, contributors, staff and readers, I send a huge THANK YOU! This comprehensive community resource would not be possible without each of you. You are appreciated and you empower us to do and be better each month. With love and light,
Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines
Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
See our display advertiser index on page 70. Making it easier to find the resources you need. eNaturalAwakenings.com
203 TLC 203-856-9566 www.203TLC.com Bodywork
Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot
Michelle Quigley, LMT, RCST Advanced & Orthopedic Massage, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy & Sheng Zhen Meditation Teacher Fairfield & Weston michellequigley.com 203-216-8874
Beth Leas 25+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566
Holistic Center & Spa Soul Synergy Wellness Holistic Center & Spa Tracey Scalzi, Reiki II, Access Consciousness Prac. 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 9, Stamford SoulSynergy.org accessconsciousness.com/en SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com 203-356-5822 or 203-814-1355
Lyme Disease Healing Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing. 528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725
Spiritual Counseling Katherine Gray Silvan, LMSW Clear Light Spiritual Counseling Interfaith Minister, Reiki Master Inspirational Speaker katherinesilvan.com 203-912-5252
203 TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products. Founded in 1997 by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well.
Hypnosis/Active Dreaming Thea Litsios, CHy Healing Tree Wisdom Norwalk and Stratford HealingTreeWisdom.com 203-693-1493
Fit Body/Yoga Robyn Mortiboys, E-RYT 200 Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes all levels Paddle Board Yoga Yoga & Painting Workshops robyn@yogainwaves.com yogainwaves.com 203-674-9995
Interior Design/Design Psychology Betsy Cameron, Seva Interiors Full-service Interiors, Color Consultations, Home Styling, Workshops sevainteriors.com 203-635-0808
Meditation & Counseling Meg Reilly, MS, CH Meg Reilly 360 Classes monthly in Norwalk Personalized service by appointment MegReilly360.com 203-952-6272
Transformation Coaching/Healing Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Leadership Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800
Salt Cave Salt Cave of Darien Salt therapy, massage, meditation & yoga 555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667
Transformative Healing Tesa Baum, CHT, RM Certified Hypnotherapy Practitioner, Usui/Karuna Reiki Master, Shamanic Practitioner TesaBaum.com Ridgefield 203-364-4084
Get to know us at TLC’s monthly networking breakfast! Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month, at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00am. Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) orTLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place.
May 2019
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news briefs
Early Bird Offer for Personalized Detox with Chef Eliana Grübel
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hef Eliana Grübel, a board certified health coach and private chef, offers short-term detox, meals to freeze, dinner parties, cooking classes, personalized coaching programs and seminars. She is currently offering an “early bird” special offer for Natural Awakenings’ readers interested in a five-day personalized Eliana Grübel detox program. The program costs $380 (regular price $420) if a spot is reserved before June 1 with a $100 deposit. The diet itself includes: breakfast, lunches, dinners and snacks, freshly prepared in the safety of your home, for the length of the diet selected; cold-pressed juices, smoothies, salads, soups and stews prepared with the best ingredients available at the store of your preference; essential daily routines with specific strategies for each client’s type to maximize the process; eco-friendly body and home cleaning products list; an optional “purging the pantry”; and post-detox recommendations “4 ur type”. For those who are interested, the detox program may contain homegrown microgreens from Grübel’s garden and may also include fermented locally grown vegetables. Grübel is a Certified Food Safety Manager by the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals, member of the United States Personal Chef Association, member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and is licensed and insured. For more information, visit CleanFood4UrType.com. See ad, page 13.
World Labyrinth Day and Supporting Ann’s Place
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nn’s Place, a nonprofit that offers community-based cancer support for men, women and children, regularly hosts events in the Danbury area to support their great work. This month they’ll celebrate World Labyrinth Day, plus a fun breakfast for UConn fans, and don’t forget to register now for the Ladies Golf Classic in June. On May 4 at 1pm, people around the world will be “walking labyrinths for peace” on World Labyrinth Day. Ann’s Place’s labyrinth was designed by Jo-Ann Frank, who passed away this year, and they are holding a special gathering in the garden in honor of this special woman and occasion. There will be a brief and informal labyrinth walk followed by a small reception to celebrate the wisdom and talents Frank shared through the years. All are welcome, but please call to RSVP. On May 14 from 7:30 to 9am, have breakfast with SNY announcer Eric Frede and UConn alum Meghan Culmo at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. Start your day with a little UConn reminiscing when these two well-known sportscasters take the stage. You will love the banter between these friends who have been commentating on athletes in UConn women’s basketball and beyond for years. Tickets are $25, and sponsorship opportunities are available until May 7. Registration is now open for the 24th Annual Jeanne Parille Ladies Golf Classic to benefit Ann’s Place, which will take place on June 24 at Richter Park Golf Course in Danbury. Register early, as foursomes fill up quickly. Player fees are $185, including greens fee, cart, prizes, meals and the new driving range. For more information and registration for events, call 203-790-6568 or visit AnnsPlace.org. Location: Ann’s Place, 80 Saw Mill Rd, Danbury.
Every Being is a World Untold
sarah beth
Restoring balance, health & harmony to body, mind & spirit.
Gentle and non-invasive, CranioSacral Therapy can be effective in helping neurological problems, traumatic brain/spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, migraines, coordination difficulties, stroke and more. Safe and effective for babies with digestive difficulties, breastfeeding problems, chronic ear infections or sensory issues.
Medical Qigong
Oldest of the four branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical Qigong is an ancient, effective form of Chinese energetic medicine. The goal is to harmonize and balance our body, mind and spirit. Medical Qigong sessions may be held in person or remotely.
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CranioSacral Therapy
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y y Integrated Energy Therapy
A safe, gentle, nurturing way to empower and balance your life by releasing patterns of the past, using a unique Cellular Memory Map® to target areas in the body where “cellular memories” are stored. Gentle, powerful support for childhood traumas such as physical and sexual abuse, alcoholic and dysfunctional families.
Mill Pond Village • 213 East Putnam Avenue, Suite #5 • Greenwich, CT 06807 • 203-246-7048 • 3Treasures-Healing.com 8
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
May 2019
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news briefs
Fight Osteoporosis Naturally with Cutting-Edge Technology
M Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) offers safe, FDA approved full body or breast screening.
Non Invasive • No Radiation • Possible 8 years earlier breast cancer detection vs mammogram • Clinical imaging for detecting and monitoring a number of diseases and physical injuries.
Rachel Mazzarelli ��,���
203-257-3785
Offices throughout Fairfield County, Southbury, New Haven, Milford, and New York
whthermography@gmail.com www.wholehealththermography.com
ay is Osteoporosis Awareness Month, and OsteoStrong is offering a presentation about its breakthrough program to fight the disease, plus free bone density scans on May 7 from 9 to 10:30am at its Darien location. Attendees will discover how to build skeletal strength and combat osteoporosis naturally and faster than pharmaceutical treatments or other therapies. Designed for people of all ages and activity levels, OsteoStrong offers an easy and painless way to improve bone density, balance, posture and athletic performance and reduce joint and back pain. According to American Bone Health, weight-bearing activity is critical for bone health, yet the amount of loading required to stimulate the bone-building process equals 4.2 times one’s body weight. Those weighing 130 pounds would need to load 546 pounds, which is not possible for most people. OsteoStrong’s technology enables individuals to load 4 to 10 times their body weight easily and most importantly, safely, through its exclusive Robotic Musculoskeletal Development System. The event is limited to 20 people. Early bird specials are available for the first signups. There will also be exclusive discount offers for the program at this and other select events. To register, visit Eventbrite.com/e/fight-osteoporosis-naturally-tickets-59549272477. For more information, call 203-900-1662, email Darien@OsteoStrong.me or visit OsteoStrong. me. Location: OsteoStrong, Goodwives Shopping Center, 25 Old Kings Hwy N, Darien. Intuitive Consultant
Jen Blanco Radiant Traveler, LLC www.radianttraveler.com jen@radianttraveler.com 860-717-0811
A Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Crystals • Candles • Unique Gifts Psychics Daily • Reiki Sessions & Classes Monthly & Quarterly Fairs Massage • Facials Workshops & Classes
Skin Care & Yoga Dana Salvador Cosmic Vinyasa Yoga - Tues 9am & Thurs 6pm Light Cosmedics for immaculate complexion and radiance dana@lightcosmedics.com lightcosmedics.com 203-731-9354
Visit For Your Spiritual Wellness Needs! Spring start 200 Hour YTT 200hr 3/23 Register soon! See MINDBODY for yoga schedule
203-586-1655
Sherman Village 670 Main St. South, Woodbury, CT www.therubytreect.com 10
Weight Loss & Management Ed Boisits, Ideal Protein Coach Achieve your weight loss goals with a physician approved program from Ideal Protein • loseforlife2.com info@loseforlife2.com 203-586-1381
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
Reiki/AromaTouch/Shamanic Work Christina M. Boisits-O’Keefe, MS,CN, OM Owner of The Ruby Tree, Usui/Celtic/Crystal Reiki Master, Clinical Nutritionist, Shamanic Practitioner healwithchristina.com magic@healwithchristina.com 203-217-8902
Transformative Healing Gail L. Chipman, Empathic Goddess Empower Your Life - Discover The Power Within Massage, Usui Reiki and Spiritual Counseling therubytreect.com/practitioners empathicgoddess134@gmail.com 860-946-3071
Yoga Teacher Training Lisa Zembruski Power Vinyasa Flow & classical training offered in multiple formats LisaZenYoga.com Lisa.Zembruski@yahoo.com 203-232-2580
Inner Harmony Expert Brings ‘Empowered Self Relating’ to Rhinebeck
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aryn Scotto d’ Luzia, a renowned author and thought leader in inner harmony, shame resolution and trauma recovery, will lead a weekend workshop, “Empower Your Humanness: Unshame Your Life,” at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck June 21 to 23. Scotto d’ Luzia has been teaching this workshop in Europe and on the West Coast, but this is the first time she will bring it to New York. “Empowered Self Relating is a unique approach that offers a more life-affirming way to relate to the most important person in your life—you,” Scotto d’ Luzia says. “It helps people with overwhelm, negative self-talk, low self-esteem or other selffocused disharmony experience more inner ease that adds up each day, so the quality of life becomes more positive and empowered from the inside out. The Omega workshop is a fun, informative and transformational way to shift from the inside and experience gentle yet powerful inner harmony.” Location: Omega Institute, 150 Lake Dr, Rhinebeck, NY. Early registration suggested for preferred housing options. To register, to take a free e-course or for more information, visit EmpoweredSelfRelating.com/workshop/. See ad, page 33.
Bi-annual Statewide Holistic Expo
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he Holistic Community Professionals are hosting their 4th Bi-annual Statewide Holistic Expo on May 5 from 10am to 5pm at The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Bristol. The public is invited to attend the expo, which will feature 75 exhibitors and speakers and free raffles all day, with a grand prize raffle of an overnight stay with breakfast for two. A free sound healing/drumming ceremony will be held on the patio from 4 to 5pm. Admission is $5 per person online at YourHolisticEvents.com or $7 at the door. Children under 5 are free. All door proceeds will be donated to the CT Children’s Medical Center (ConnecticutChildrens. org) and Hartford Hospitals Integrative Medicine - Angie’s Spa (AngiesSpa.org). All funds will be used directly for patient care. Holistic Community Professionals is a professional team of holistic and natural businesses providing community outreach and education, with members from Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. All members, led by Executive Director Shirley Bloethe, are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind and spirit in the communities served. For tickets, visit YourHolisticEvents.com. For more information, call 860-989-0033, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com or visit HolisticCommunityProfessionals.com. Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, 42 Century Dr, Bristol. May 2019
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Women’s Wellness Retreat in Stratford
news briefs
Awakening Your Intuition Workshop at Harmony Yoga
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ictoria Shaw, PhD, psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor, will present an Awakening Your Intuition workshop on June 2 from 3 to 4:30pm at Harmony Yoga, in Stamford. We live in a highly analytical world where most people are taught to ignore their inner guidance in favor of linear reasoning and consensus reality. In this workshop, you will learn to re-connect with your intuitive guidance so you can live a more joyful and divinely inspired life. Intuition is the spiritual GPS that connects you to your highest self and guides you in living the life your soul intended. Intuition can inform and enrich all aspects of your life, including your health, wealth, career and relationships. Shaw combines traditional psychotherapy techniques with intuitive guidance. At her office in Westport, she works with children, teens and adults on issues ranging from anxiety, stress management, body image concerns, relationship issues and spirituality. No experience is necessary, and all levels will benefit. Pre-registration is required, as spaces are limited. Purchase tickets for $40 at Eventbrite.com/e/awakening-your-intuition-tickets-60164161627. For more information or to register, call 203-254-3403, email VFShawPhD@gmail.com or visit VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com. Location: Harmony Yoga, 1100 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 17.
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elebrate and rejuvenate yourself. Come with your mother, daughter, sister, friends or just yourself. Learn all about women’s wellness and self-care from doctors and wellness experts at the Women’s Wellness Retreat on May 4 from 9:30am to 3:30pm, at HCC Yoga in Stratford, presented by Active Ayurveda and Yoga LLC. From puberty to menopause, learn useful tips about graceful and blissful living. Enjoy yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, Reiki, essential oils, dance, henna and a soothing ayurvedic lunch, included. Wellness vendors will be on site displaying their products. The event will feature: Shobha Jagadeesh, MD, Doctor of Internal Medicine; Jaya Daptardar, BAMS, MHA, Ayurvedic Doctor; Shyron Alston, Naturopathic Doctor; Indira Pulliadath, MS, Nutritional Therapist; Ingrid Prueher, essential oils expert; Jigna Trivedi, Bollywood dance instructor; and yoga with HCC Yoga instructors and Wendy Simmons-Taylor. Tickets are $35 and include an Ayurvedic lunch. For more information and to RSVP, call 203-857-4123 or email JMDaptardar@hotmail.com. For more information about Active Ayurveda, visit AyurBeautyAndLifestyle.com. Location: 96 Chapel St, Stratford.
Jessica Hunter
Hunter Healing Hands
Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Integrative & Intuitive Healing Sessions Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Spirit Communication, Soul Retrieval, Extraction, Depossession, Curse Unraveling, Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki
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Professional Space Clearing and Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses
Available Training Programs Stone Spirit Program
Crystal Healing Practitioner Certification
Shamanic Spirit Program
2 Year Shamanic Apprenticeship & Shamanic Practitioner Certification
Shamanic & Empath Workshops
203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 12
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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Art Exhibition Supports Refugee Organizations
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ore than 50 international artists, reflecting five continents, will take an expansive look at identity and art in a global world in browngrotta arts’ 2019 Art in the Barn exhibition, Art + Identity: An International View, which will be held on May 3 from 7 to 9:30pm. There will also be a VIP tour from 6 to 7pm. The evening includes specialty cocktails and appetizers and the opportunity to buy, bid and bring home truly one-of-a-kind handcrafted items from the Our Woven Community program at the Burroughs Community Center. For only 10 days a year, the public has a rare opportunity to visit one of the world’s most unique homes and galleries of fiber art right here in our community. Exhibiting art pieces sought after by collectors from around the world, the gallery owners have generously committed one evening to support an exclusive fundraising event. All of the proceeds from this event will support two organizations: Our Woven Community (OWC) and The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI). OWC is a program at the Burroughs Community Center that provides local resettled refugee women the opportunity to become self-sufficient leaders and become empowered with entrepreneurial skills and economic opportunity. CIRI is a nonprofit that helps refugees and immigrants resolve legal, economic, linguistic and social barriers so that they become self-sufficient, integrated and contributing members of the community. Space is limited for the VIP tour, which will include an exclusive exhibit catalog ($50 value).For more information, call 203-334-0293. Location: browngrotta gallery, 276 Ridgefield Rd, Wilton.
Expanding Possibility Through Vision • Eye Exams for All Ages • Dry Eyes, Computer Use & Sports Vision • Treatment for Eye Diseases • Eyeglasses & Specialty Contact Lenses • Iridology, Vision Therapy & Preventive Care Dr. Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD Dr. Tanya Ayzikovich, O.D. Dr. Narvan Bennett, O.D. Dr. Stephen Carr, O.D. Dr. Steven Shaby, O.D. Dr. Evan Tirado, O.D
www.cteyecareassociates.com
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CT Audubon Hosts Migration Madness Weekend Across State
news briefs
Open House for Two Coyotes Wilderness School
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wo Coyotes Wilderness School’s Open House at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown will be held on Sunday, May 19. The event will include two sessions: a morning session from 10am to 12pm, and an afternoon session from 1 to 3pm. During each session, camp staff will lead all members of the family in nature activities, games, and arts and crafts. All ages are welcome to attend this free community event. Two Coyotes Wilderness School offers extraordinary summer camps and school year programs for children ages 0-17 years old. Led by our skilled nature mentors, your child will spend the whole day outside playing games, learning wilderness skills and having fun. Our small group size and exceptional staff ensure a high quality experience filled with lifelong memories and new friendships. For more information or to register for one of the available sessions, email Info@TwoCoyotes.org or visit TwoCoyotes.org. Location: Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.
The man who is swimming against the stream knows the strength of it. ~Woodrow Wilson
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onnecticut Audubon’s second annual Migration Madness Big Weekend, scheduled for May 17 to 19, will feature more than 30 guided bird walks, talks, exhibitions and other programs for all ages and in all parts of the state. The event will be highlighted by a Birdathon, a friendly bird-watching competition to raise money for conservation and environmental education in Connecticut. The Birdathon is for everyone. The 60 participants in last year’s inaugural Birdathon ranged from age 9 to almost 70, and they raised more than $10,000 for conservation. This year’s goal is to reach 100 participants and raise $20,000 in donations. Expert birders will have a chance to compete against some of the best birders in the state, and there will be ample opportunities for intermediate level birders, youngsters and people who are new to bird-watching to have fun and win prizes. Attendees can choose from at least 30 programs and events throughout Migration Madness. Highlights include: beginner bird walk at the Coastal Center on Friday afternoon; late afternoon coastal bird walk at Watch Rock Preserve, led by the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center in Old Lyme; full moon walk at the Center of Fairfield on Friday evening; bird banding demonstrations at Birdcraft in Fairfield on Saturday and Sunday and at the Center at Pomfret on Saturday; mid-morning bird walk at the Center at Glastonbury on Saturday; incredible “90-bird day” trip with Andy Rzeznikiewicz at the Center at Pomfret on Sunday; and early-morning and not-so-early guided walks through the highlands of Deer Pond Farm in Sherman. Many events are free and all are reasonably priced, with discounts for Connecticut Audubon members. For more information, visit MigrationMadness.CTAudubon.org.
A Spiritual Home Celebration Service
Rev. Shawn Moninger
Sundays at 10:30 am 3 Main Street, 2nd Floor Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Rental space available for therapists and spiritual groups. Reiki Healing Circle, Thursday, May 9th at 7pm Open Mic Night, Saturday, May 18th at 7pm See all events in the calendar listings
eNaturalAwakenings.com
Contact us for more information or view our website.
Spirit Festival Coming to Connecticut Riverfront
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ickets are now available for Spirit Festival, a celebration of wellness, yoga, music and dance, which will be held September 13 to 15, along the Connecticut River in Hartford. Produced in affiliation with BaliSpirit Festival and Riverfront Recapture, the event will provide a safe and moving space for discovering new paths to harmony, healing, creativity and community. Spirit Festival will feature a diverse array of offerings from conscious teachers, practitioners, performers and artists, including: a kirtan and chanting workshop with internationally celebrated yogi-musician Girish; an immersive sound bath with Integrative Sound Therapist Daniel Lauter; an opportunity to talk and practice with Maya Breuer, founder of the Yoga Retreat for Women of Color at Kripalu; a “get real” workshop with the author of the Indie Spiritualist, Chris Grosso; a grounding workshop for creating a spiritual life with Dr. Brandon Nappi; a participant-driven and technologyinfused installation by New Media Artist Balam Soto; an introduction to the practice of Ashtanga Yoga with Randolph Osgood; a high energy experience of Caribbean style SocaRobix with trainer and coach Wasine Mark; children and family yoga instruction with Dragonfly Studios; and an opportunity to turn trash into instruments with Ethnomusicologist Dennis Waring. Through beneficial and inspirational traditions of yoga, dance and music, the BaliSpirit Festival illustrates the Balinese Hindu concept of Tri Hita Karana: living in harmony with our spiritual, social and natural environments. For more information, visit SpiritYogaFestival.com. Location: Riverside Park & Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, Hartford. See ad, page 3.
Family Resources and Fun at Children’s Holistic Health Fair
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he Children’s Holistic Health Fair (CHHF) connects families with holistic resources to help them overcome social-emotional, behavioral, learning, developmental and health challenges they experience with their children. This year’s fair will be held June 8 from 10am to 4pm at New Morning Market in Woodbury, offering resources and fun activities for the whole family, showcasing programs, products and services. The CHHC will feature holistic wellness professionals, authors of children’s and adult books, children’s activities, goody bags, free samples and literature, light refreshments, raffle prizes and more. A new feature this year is the Virtual CHHF live stream and private Facebook group, allowing families who cannot attend to access recordings and interact with participants after the event. A sampling of the holistic options available at the fair include: acupuncture; allergies, asthma and food sensitivities treatments; art therapy; autism, ADHD, ADD and SPD management; brain games; chiropractic; cognitive behavioral therapy; Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping); Reiki; essential oils; family nutrition; home and environmental toxins; homeopathy; hypnosis; mindfulness, meditation and breathwork; music therapy; naturopathic medicine; neurofeedback/biofeedback; occupational therapy; organic personal care products; sensory therapies; social emotional behavioral therapies; vision therapy; yoga; tai chi, qigong; and more. There are two ticket options, one per family. The Live Attendance ticket includes access to all live attractions, prizes and giveaways, plus FB group and virtual CHHF recordings. The Virtual CHHF ticket includes FB group, CHHF live stream and recordings. For more information and tickets, email ChildrensHolistic@gmail.com or visit ChildrensHolisticHealthFair.com. Location: New Morning Market, 129 Main St N, Woodbury.
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Change Your Story, Change Your Life! Restoring Creativity, Wellness, and Balance Nancy S. Scherlong, lcsw,ptr, m/s Coaching, Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts Workshops HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY • COACHING • EXPRESSIVE THERAPIES/TRAINING
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
news briefs
Connecticut Women’s Consortium (CWC) presents the 2019 Covington Curriculum Conference
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eepen your understanding of gender-responsive and trauma-informed care at this national conference. Dr. Stephanie Covington’s programs respond to the needs of women, men and girls in the fields of behavioral health, addiction, mental health, trauma treatment and criminal justice. The 2019 Covington Curriculum Conference will take place from June 4 to 6 at the Stamford Hilton Hotel in Stamford. Registration is $450 per person, which includes a participant workbook for the curriculum selected. CWC has expanded this year with an additional suite on the second floor of their current location at 2321 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, Connecticut. That training space will accommodate up to 120 participants; as a result, CWC will increase training offerings for the July to December 2019 training catalog by 26 percent. The current fourth floor training space will be utilized for healing arts trainings, which focus on teaching tools for optimal living. Training topics will include meditation, nutrition, Ayurveda, yoga, personal growth, wellness, stress management and more. Continuing education credits will be provided for most trainings. This space will also be utilized for room rentals and private trainings. CWC has a rich history of promoting trauma-informed, gender responsive services through their mission to ensure that the behavioral health system responds to the needs of women and the people and organizations that affect them. They envision that the behavioral health care systems serving women will be accessible and effective, and practice holistic, traumainformed and gender-responsive care. To achieve this vision, CWC strives to eliminate discrimination and promote excellence in the care for women through education, advocacy and policy development. For more information on the conference and to register, visit CovingtonConference.com. For more information about Connecticut Women’s Consortium, healing arts trainings or room rentals, visit WomensConsortium.org.
If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman. ~Margaret Thatcher
eNaturalAwakenings.com
kudos
Westport Farmers’ Market Awarded Grant
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estport Farmers’ Market (WFM) has announced that the organization is the recipient of a $10,000 grant from the esteemed Newman’s Own Foundation. The grant funding, which the WFM also received last year, supports its commitment to Homes for the Brave’s Female Soldiers: Forgotten Heroes program, located in Bridgeport. The Female Soldiers: Forgotten Heroes Program is Connecticut’s first and only community-based transitional home exclusively for homeless female veterans and their young children. Through this generous grant funding, homeless female veterans will continue to work with this local farmers’ market that facilitates and funds chefs and ingredients from the WFM community. Together they prepare, cook and serve a meal. Several of the participants have secured employment directly from working with local chefs and the WFM. According to Lori Cochran-Dougall, Director of the WFM, the grant is especially poignant as Paul Newman, a former Westport resident, was one of the market’s founders in 2006. “Paul Newman brought life to the market we know and love today,” she said. “I am proud that we are able to carry on his vision and help WFM, its farmers and beneficiaries, including Homes for the Brave, to thrive. This award is close to my heart as it allows us to be able to continue to serve those who have served our country, and that, in and of itself, is a privilege.” WFM is committed to providing fresh, local, healthy and seasonal food to area residents. Its mission is to increase awareness, knowledge and support for local producers who are focused on sustainable and healthy growing practices while aspiring to create a fun, safe and healthy community environment for education and socialization. For more information, visit WestportFarmers Market.com, NewmansOwnFoundation.org and HomesForTheBrave.org.
Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC
Intuitive & Consultant LPC Shaw, PhD, F.Psychotherapist Victoria
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17
eco tip
Skip the Slip
Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com
Digital Receipts Gain Momentum Compared to newspapers, magazines and junk mail, retail sales receipts may seem inconsequential in their use of trees and their footprint on the environment. Yet, getting and handling that tabulation of a sale is a health hazard that contributes to landfills. Certainly, some receipts are required for tax records and product returns, but the vast majority serve no future purpose; there’s also a better and safer option than paper. Treehugger.com reports the annual waste from receipts in the U.S. totals 686 million pounds, and that skipping receipts would save 12 billion pounds of carbon dioxide, the equivalent of 1 million cars on the road. The problem is getting worse as many retail outlets include
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
special offers and other promotional information on receipts, making them longer and the corresponding amount of paper used greater. The Ecology Center, an educational nonprofit located in San Juan Capistrano, California, estimates that 93 percent of paper receipts are coated with Bisphenol-A (BPA) or Bisphenol-S (BPS), endocrine disrupters that are used as color developers to help make the receipts more legible. However, the presence of either makes them ineligible for recycling. According to Green America (GreenAmerica.org), BPA that can be “absorbed into our bodies through our hands in mere seconds,” can impact fetal development and “is linked to reproductive impairment, Type 2 diabetes, thyroid conditions and other health concerns.” Employees that regularly handle receipts have 30 percent more BPA or BPS in their bodies. In January, California Assembly member Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) introduced legislation (AB 161) nicknamed “skip the slip”, which would require retailers to offer digital receipts to customers. If it passes, it will be the first such law in the country.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
Dim Prospects
kosolovskyy/Shutterstock.com
Light Bulb Standards Weakened
Higher federal standards for energyefficient light bulbs established two years ago are in the process of being rolled back by the U.S. Department of Energy, part of a move toward widespread deregulation by the current administration. Consumers stand to lose about $100 per household per year in electric bill savings if the higher standards are not implemented, say critics. The wasted energy could result in more power plant pollution, which harms the environment and contributes to health problems like asthma. The plan would also stifle innovation, eliminating a powerful regulatory incentive for manufacturers and retailers to invest in high-quality, energy-efficient LED light bulbs.
A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support. ~Kate Middleton
Hatching a Record
Avian Senior Citizen Astounds Again
Being at least 68 years old didn’t deter Wisdom, a Laysan Albatross, from recently hatching another chick. The world’s oldest known banded wild bird, which roosts at the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, in Hawaii, has birthed and raised more than 30 chicks in her lifetime. She and her mate-for-life Akeakamai spent about two months incubating the new egg, and now they’ll raise the chick for five to six months before it flies out to sea. It is uncommon for albatross to return, lay and hatch an egg every single year, but the pair has produced a chick each year since 2006, say U.S Fish and Wildlife Service officials.
Kryuchka Yaroslav/Shutterstock.com
global briefs
CT Wellness We are a collaborative group of independent, advanced practitioners serving our clients in reaching their optimal level of wellness. We believe healing occurs through mind, body and spirit. Counseling serviCes
Wellness serviCes
Addiction Counseling Dan Mosner, BS
Chiropractor Dr. Alex Colondona, DC
Clinical Social Work/Psychotherapy Nancy Fawcett, LCSW Jennifer Blaire, LCSW Karen Kravec, LCSW Patricia Gordon, LCSW Ted Timmel, LCSW
CranioSacral Therapy Eloise Stager, LMT, CST-D
Psychotherapy Joseph Pietrafeso, LPC Michaella Schaum, LPC Kim Morello, LPC Karen Schaum, LPC Vicki Scataglini, LPC Joseph Benner, LPC, LADC
Hypnosis Ronna Brier
EFT Tapping Kay Flynn, LCSW Victoria Cryder Suzanne Rossini
Naturopathic Doctor & Acupuncturist Lisa Singley, ND, MS Naturopathic Doctor & Yoga Teacher Dr. Christine M. Tondora, ND Therapeutic Massage Laura Callahan, LMT
We have 2 convenient office locations: Our main office is located in Newtown at: 107 Church Hill Rd. Suite 1 and Suite 1A, Sandy Hook, CT 06482 We have a satellite office used by some of our therapists in Danbury at: 2 Glenn Hill Rd., Danbury, CT 08611
May 2019
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Beyond Green Burial
global briefs
As the Appalachian economy struggles with the loss of three-fifths of its coal mining jobs in the last three decades, a surprising option is emerging for some: beekeeping. The Appalachian Beekeeping Collective offers beekeeping training, including bees and equipment and ongoing mentoring, for displaced coal miners and low-income residents of mining towns; so far, about 35 people are participating. Landowners are donating property for the beehives, which will be maintained without pesticides or antibiotics. Honey from a single hive can bring in about $750 a season, or $15,000 per 20, and additional money can be made selling the beeswax for candles and lip balm. The beekeeping collective is part of Appalachian Headwaters, a nonprofit formed in 2016 with a $7.5 million lawsuit settlement from coal mine operator Alpha Natural Resources for violations of the Clean Water Act. The money has been used to fund environmental restoration projects and to develop sustainable economic opportunities in the coal mining communities of West Virginia.
CONNECTICUT'S LOCALSUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE DESTINATION IS SUSTAINNE.COM Our actions and decisions today will shape our future. Visit us to get inspired and shop responsibly.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Washington is poised to become the first state to make it legal to compost human remains. A bill allowing for the process, called natural organic reduction, as well as another called water cremation, has passed the state senate and is making its way to the house for a vote. Human composting involves placing a body in a tubular vessel and covering it with natural materials like wood chips and straw. Over several weeks, microbial activity breaks down the body into about a cubic yard of soil. Recompose, a company that wants to offer the practice as an alternative to traditional methods, worked with Washington State University to test its safety for environmental and human health. Six people donated their bodies for the study. The method alleviates much of the carbon footprint associated with both cremation and traditional casket burial.
Bear Blitz
Climate-Challenged Polar Bears Invade Town
About 50 polar bears that usually hunt seals from ice floes have found new cuisine in the garbage dumps in the remote Russian island military town of Belushya Gubam, about 1,200 miles northeast of Moscow. Its 2,000 residents, long accustomed to the occasional bear strolling through, now call it a “mass invasion” as the curious bears peer into windows, stare down barking dogs and dig through trash. Russia’s environmental response agency has sent in a crisis team that is studying how to remove the bears without killing them. The Barents Sea that the bears inhabit is undergoing what a recent study called a “rapid climate shift” from Arctic Ocean temperatures to warmer Atlantic Ocean-like temperatures; the entire western side of the island is now ice-free year round.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
volkova natalia/Shutterstock.com
Chones/Shutterstock.com
Miners Becoming Beekeepers
A3pfamily/Shutterstock.com
Human Composting at the End of Life
Post-Coal Cash
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Dancing Prevents Senior Decline
Swedish seniors that took coenzyme Q10 and selenium during a four-year study were still benefiting 12 years later with a reduced cardiovascular mortality risk of more than 40 percent. In the original study, Linköping University researchers gave 443 independently living seniors over 70 years old either a placebo or 200 milligrams of CoQ10 and 200 milligrams of selenium per day. Those on the supplements showed a reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, improved heart function, less hospitalization, more vitality and a better quality of life. Twelve years later, the researchers examined autopsies and death certificates, and found the supplement-takers had a lower risk of death compared to the placebo group, even if they had diabetes, high blood pressure or ischemic heart disease.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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Affiliated with the American Association for Nude Recreation
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Selenium and CoQ10 Provide Lasting Benefits OSTILL is Franck Camhi/Shutterstock.com
Japanese researchers interviewed 1,003 Tokyo women over 70 years old about which of 16 types of exercise they did, including dancing, calisthenics, jogging, golf, ball games, hiking, yoga, bicycling and tai chi. In eight years of follow-up, those that danced were 73 percent less likely to be classified as impaired in any of the “activities of daily living” such as walking, cooking, dressing and bathing—a result not produced by the other physical activities. “Dancing requires not only balance, strength and endurance ability, but also cognitive ability: adaptability and concentration to move according to the music and partner; artistry for graceful and fluid motion; and memory for choreography,” writes lead author Yosuke Osuka, of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology.
Women in menopause that are mindful and nonjudgmental of their thoughts are less irritable, anxious and depressed, reports a Mayo Clinic study recently published in Climacteric, the journal of the International Menopause Society. Researchers gave questionnaires to 1,744 menopausal patients 40 to 65 years old and found that those with higher mindfulness scores struggled less with common menopausal symptoms. Mindfulness didn’t lower hot flash and night sweat symptoms, however.
rSnapshotPhotos/Shutterstock.com
Mindfulness May Ease Menopausal Symptoms
health briefs
Avoid Acid Reflux and Still Have Fun! What do graduations, bridal showers and weddings all have in common? That’s right, this is a time when our eating and drinking habits start to kick into high gear. For people who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), these events can be stressful and difficult to navigate. At many of these occasions, we find foods laden with fats, sugars galore, wine bottles being popped open and possibly stress. How do we enjoy these fun events, yet come out on the other end not feeling ill from acid reflux? Acid reflux does not always present itself with heartburn; there are many people who suffer from silent acid reflux. These manifestations include constantly clearing of one’s throat, persistent cough, post-nasal drip, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, sour taste in the mouth and possibly asthma symptoms. There are a number of ways to come away unscathed. Many foods served at events are filled with bad fats. Dips are usually made with full-fat mayonnaise, sour cream and even full-fat yogurts, usually accompanied by chips. A better alternative is to have low-fat to non-fat dips, along with baked chips. Fat in and of itself relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which then allows acids to flow back up the esophagus. Lots of butter may be used in foods, which also relaxes the LES. Try avoiding sugary foods and drinks. The sugar alone doesn’t cause acid reflux, but the foods they are found in are typically trigger foods. In terms of alcohol, opt for red wines from a warmer climate, as these tend to be lower in acid. According to The Tasting Group, well-known warm climates by region are: most of California, except Sonoma Coast and Santa Maria Valley; most of Australia, except Western Australia and Victoria; and Mendoza Valley, Argentina. Beer is a big offender because it is the most acidic and it also bloats the stomach, putting pressure on and loosening the LES, thus pushing stomach acid back up the food pipe. Of all the liquors, gin is the least acidic. The bottom line is to avoid fatty and sugary foods, be mindful with alcohol selection and don’t overeat. When we eat too much, the pressure on our stomach will relax the LES, leading to a not-so-fun party. Susan Berman, Med, CHHC, works with health conscious individuals to help heal their acid reflux or GERD. Connect at 860-670-4152, Susan@HealingAcidReflux.com or HealingAcidReflux.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 65.
Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching
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Teacher and Practitioner of Cross-Cultural Energy Medicine and Contemporary Shamanism
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23
community spotlight
Vicki Scataglini, Karen Schaum and Kim Morello
CT Wellness Celebrates 10 Years Sandy Hook Collaborative Heals Hearts and Minds
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by Nicole Miale
n May of 2009 when CT Counselors first opened its doors, no one knew it would become an integral part of health and healing in the Sandy Hook community. At the time it was a few psychotherapists with a common goal; to provide counseling support to individuals, families, adolescents, and children. Karen Schaum is one of the founders and she recalls with fondness how it all started; “I remember picking out paint colors and carpets,” she says. “It’s just amazing to know that clients I started with as kids are now getting married, going off to college or boot camp. 24
We’ve helped a lot of people here through the years and that feels really good.” CT Counselors began as a center where psychotherapists in private practice shared space. As more therapists joined, each brought a unique skill set and energy, enhancing the level of expertise CT Counselors offered and creating new possibilities. CT Counselors, now referred to more commonly as CT Wellness to reflect the expansion of the service offerings, is run by Kim Morello, Vicki Scataglini and Schaum as a healing arts center where client well-being is supported by highly trained practitioners
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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of contemporary and alternative healing modalities. “We were always attuned to a more holistic model, even as fairly new counselors,” Morello explains. “Counseling is a science and an art. We were always wondering, how can we make this work more holistic? How can we address the needs of the whole person sitting before us?” As they built the team, they were also conscious of wanting to serve the specific needs of their local community in Sandy Hook, which was so devastated by the events of December 14, 2012. “That was a very difficult time,” Morello says. “We were inundated with clients and absolutely everyone was struggling.” The counselors and other local therapists received complimentary EMDR training; EMDR is a modality proven to be effective in relieving trauma. “Learning EMDR really launched us into a whole new area because it was more energybased than our previous training,” Morello explains. “We saw how well it was working and saw the potential for those kinds of services in our wider vision for the center.” With over 20 years as a licensed therapist, Scataglini had realized the benefits of traditional psychotherapy could be limiting and short lived. It could take a client so far, she says, but when she applied some things she learned in her own personal practice, clients were more empowered. “The results were longer lasting and desired states of peace were attained,” she says. Born of experience, a larger vision began to take shape. “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could create a health and wellness center offering traditional psychotherapy along with many other healing modalities, all under one roof,” was the question they asked each other. Ten years later, the vision is a reality. The current wellness center is home to 21 diverse practitioners who serve the mind-body-spirit needs of their clients. Mental health counselors and clinical social workers–both female and male–
are trained in a variety of treatment modalities, and provide licensed psychotherapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. The center is also home to two naturopathic physicians, several EFT/tapping practitioners, a chiropractor, a craniosacral therapist, substance abuse counselors, a massage therapist certified to work with oncology patients, a spiritual liaison, a medical management practitioner, a Reiki practitioner and a consulting hypnotist.
“It’s just amazing to know that clients I started with as kids are now getting married, going off to college or boot camp. We’ve helped a lot of people here through the years and that feels really good.” “It’s not unusual for clients to come into therapy somewhat untrusting,” Schaum explains. “They might not be open or willing to try something new right away. But as a counselor builds trust and gets to know each client, we can see what other techniques might be of benefit to them, like massage or chiropractic. Then we can connect them with talented people right in the same building, making it easier for clients to follow through and get services that will really help them feel better.” Morello says she has observed a shift over the years in clients’ willingness to consider less traditional therapy. “I have so many more clients now–especially the younger generation– who are open and curious about alternatives to talk therapy. It creates so many exciting opportunities for deeper healing.” Clients come from all over Fairfield and Litchfield counties and the offices are open 6 and a half days per week, Schaum says, including many evenings and weekends. Most of the practitioners participate in insurance plans. The space is welcoming and has a soothing energy that is palpable, Morello says. “We’re a very connected group, and the space reflects that. We have really bonded as a team, crying and laughing together both personally and professionally at different times.” Schaum adds, “We are so lucky that we get to work in a beautiful space helping people with people we love.” CT Wellness is one of the sponsors of Rocking the Hook, a free concert in Sandy Hook on May 19 from 12-7pm, presented by Maplewood at Newtown and Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity (SHOP). CT Wellness has two office locations: the main office at 107 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook, and a satellite office at 2 Glenn Hill Rd, Danbury. For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-270-9888 or visit CTCounselors.com. See ad, page 19. Nicole Miale is publisher of Natural Awakenings Fairfield/ Housatonic Valley, CT and Natural Awakenings Greater Hartford, CT. Connect at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.
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community spotlight
A CONVERSATION WITH Maggie Gotterer, Executive Director of Two Coyotes Wilderness School
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ounded in 2000, Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a nonprofit nature mentoring organization dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected future by linking people to nature, community and their personal empowerment, with locations in Newtown, West Granby and Killingworth. We talked with Maggie Gotterer, Executive Director of Two Coyotes, about the importance of a connection to nature, giving all children access to safe outdoor spaces and their new Forest Learning Program.
How did you become so passionate about the importance of nature/ ecotherapy? I grew up in Connecticut, but was lucky enough to spend weeks every summer at a family cabin with no electricity on an island in Maine. My first real wilderness experience was a week backpacking in the Sierra Nevadas; I was hooked. I became a student guide for the Outdoor Education club at Georgetown and led backpacking trips in the D.C. area as well as at Glacier National Park, Denali State Park and in the Cascade Mountains. I made some of my closest friends (and met my husband) through that program. 26
I worked at farm-based summer camps, including New Pond Farm in Redding, where scholarships are provided to children from Danbury, Norwalk and Bridgeport to live on the farm all week. I volunteered at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, at their Hero’s Journey program for teens that have overcome serious illnesses and spend the week camping in the woods, facing challenges they never thought they were capable of. These experiences showed me the outdoors as a place where children of all ages, abilities and backgrounds could thrive and grow.
What was your journey to becoming Executive Director of Two Coyotes?
I moved to Bridgeport after college and spent five years working for a nonprofit where I ran programs to increase access to healthy, local foods in low-income communities across the country. I then spent three years working with community-based organizations that are making Bridgeport a healthier, more economically viable and livable city for its residents. This gave me incredible hands-on experience helping small organizations develop
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the capacity and strategic framework to grow sustainably while addressing systemic harm in their community. When I found out about the Executive Director position at Two Coyotes, it was the perfect time to harness the skills I gained over the years and apply it to a field I am passionate about.
How is Two Coyotes different from other nature-based programs and schools?
In the last 19 years, we have honed our innovative and transformative programs as the school has grown to employ 34 part-time instructors providing long-term mentorship to more than 800 students (birth to 17) through school year, weekend, child and caregiver, rites of passage and summer camp programs. We are committed to ensuring that Two Coyotes programming is accessible, welcoming and inclusive of all children and families. Our mentors help children understand who they are, what their gifts are and how to bring them to the world. We believe this work is essential to creating a healthier, more connected future.
What needs to happen to bring more people back to awareness of the importance of the natural world in their individual lives/ experience?
Experiential learning in a natural environment is a powerful way to cultivate a set of habits or ways of thinking that you can bring with you into the rest of your life—because it doesn’t end when you leave that program. I think the most important thing we can do is to notice how the natural world shows up, wherever we are, every day. It can be noticing the birds and the bugs in a city backyard, smelling blooming trees on the street, or feeling the breeze while walking to your car. Noticing—raising your awareness, opening your senses— builds a connection between you and the land. You can take that with you wherever you go.
What was the biggest surprise you’ve experienced so far about Two Coyotes?
I had my first child in September, two months after starting my job at Two Coyotes. I knew I would be excited to bring her outdoors when she got older, but when we joined our Coyote Pups program in Newtown this spring, I was surprised to see how powerful the connection is at such a young age. All her senses are activated, taking in everything around her. I’m surprised by how much I’ve learned from her already about how to connect with nature.
What gets you most excited about the work that you do? I get most excited when I spend time in the field with my staff, watching them mentor the children in our programs. Every day they have a loose outline for what they might accomplish, but that might entirely change when they happen upon a dead animal and turn it into a conversation about death and mourning; or cross a set of tracks and guide the
students in picking up clues as to who left them behind; or see a conflict emerge between two students and pause to engage in peacemaking, then play a game to bring unity back to the group.
Which elements of the work frustrate you?
What frustrates me most are the systemic barriers that prevent children from all communities in Connecticut from accessing and having a deep relationship with nature. If we believe that nature connection is our birthright, and that catching frogs, muddy knees and exploring wild places are essential to growing up strong and healthy, and if we believe that long-term nature mentoring can help children to thrive and navigate the many stages of their lives, then our mission is even more urgent for children who lack easy access to safe and welcoming outdoor play spaces due to issues of structural inequality and racism. In the future, I hope to see at Two Coyotes a student body and staff more reflective of the true diversity that we have in this state.
What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to understand about Two Coyotes?
We have a strong community that has developed over the years around our homeschool programs in Newtown and Granby, and we are growing a new community in Killingworth as well. We saw those programs were also attracting children whose parents chose to take them out of public school one day a week and bring them to Two Coyotes to offer a different learning environment. In response to this growing interest, we launched the Forest Learning Program in Newtown this year and will expand it to Granby in the fall. When students are with us in the woods, we can cultivate an intrinsic love for learning and emotional intelligence that they bring back to the traditional classroom environment. We’re also excited to provide programming directly in partnership with public schools. For more information about Two Coyotes Wilderness School, call 203-843-3112 or visit TwoCoyotes.org. See community resource guide listing, page 64.
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Liberation Prison Yoga Training at Yogaspace
 
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n June 8 and 9, Anneke Lucus (LiberationPrisonYoga.com/about/ anneke-lucas), founder of Liberation Prison Yoga (LPY), will conduct a Liberation Prison Yoga Teacher Training at Yogaspace in Bethel. Learn to practice and teach in the trauma-conscious style, using meditations and mindfulness exercises in the specific LPY method, focused on unconditional, non-judgmental acceptance rather than on accountability and changing behavior. Anneke Lucus Explore power dynamics, internally and as reflected in the outside world, and in the justice system. Learn tools to work with to heal from trauma, to work with traumatized populations and how to reverse trauma. No professional teaching certification is required to take the training, though having an active yoga/meditation practice is helpful. This training will cover: social conscience and the importance of safety in yoga healing global trauma; how trauma affects the brain; a LPY empowerment practice - Level I; the 12 elements of a trauma informed practice; teaching from the heart; conversation about race and privilege; logistics of volunteering inside a prison or jail; working with mothers, babies and pregnant women; a LPY empowerment practice - Level II; the art of connecting to emotionally shutdown students; the Psychopath-Empath-Apath Triad practice-teach break-out groups: discussion, guided meditation and trauma informed yoga; and how to set up your own prison yoga program. The course has two options: $375 with 17 Yoga Alliance CEUs or $350 without CEUs. Space is limited, so sign up early. For more information and to register, email Rob@Yogaspace-CT.com or visit Yogaspace-CT. com/events. For more information about LPY, visit LiberationPrisonYoga.com. Location: Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel.
Prenatal Yoga Reduces Caesareans and Labor Pain First-time mothers that practiced yoga beginning in the 30th week of pregnancy had fewer caesareans, fewer low-weight newborns and milder and briefer labor pains. They were also less likely to require painkillers or labor inducement. The Mangalore, India, hospital study, published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, included 150 women 20 to 35 years old that were pregnant for the first time and had no prior yoga experience. Half of the women did not do yoga, while the other half took 30-minute yoga classes once every week or two. Women in the yoga group were also more comfortable after giving birth.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Yoga/Meditation Retreat in Bali!! February 2- 15, 2020 2 weeks, 2 resorts!
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Mastering Yoga
Quiet Your Mind Your Body’s Telling You Something
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by Allison Murphy
ave you ever wondered why and where your body becomes sick? Why one person gets diagnosed with one disease and someone else another? When you’ve been ill, you might think to yourself, “I’ll never get better”, but then miraculously, you do. We’re able to move forward in life and not think much about it after that—even taking it for granted. One woman never takes her health for granted. She went through a serious health crisis and taught her body how to overcome several serious illnesses, starting with spiritual/emotional healing. She grew up the last of five children in a very chaotic household with two parents, essentially raising herself. Her mother, somewhat of a medical intuitive, told her, “When you get sick, look at what’s going on emotionally for you.” There is much irony in that statement, as she was living in her mother’s house. Today’s Western medical students continue to be taught the imagined separateness between emotions and the physical body. When most Americans go to the doctor, they are not asked, “How are you doing processing your sadness from your divorce?” or told, “You have thyroid disease, so let’s talk about how you express your emotions.” Often, patients leave their doctor’s office not having felt heard. So, 10 years ago, the woman was diagnosed with a right frontal lobe glioblastoma. Her father had the same glioblastoma, which killed him 13 years before—just six months after his diagnosis. But she knew in a deeply quiet place inside of her that it would not kill her. Her brain and spine surgeon told her it had to come out immediately. The word “no” fell out of her mouth. After a short period of self-doubt, she came back around to herself and got online. She came across strong research regarding plant-based diets and chronic disease, so she began eating mostly plants. Some time went by when her brain surgeon mentioned that the tumor had slightly reduced in size. “Keep doing what you’re doing,” he told her. However, 10 years later, she now had two tumors still renting space in her head. She realized later that it wasn’t until she faced her childhood trauma that both brain tumors completely erased themselves at a very rapid rate. It took about a year and half to begin reclaiming
her “inner children” with a trauma therapist and begin loving them (herself). She gained a quiet richness deep within her, and a feeling of being enough slowly overcome her. This love began replacing the generalized fear she carried throughout her day. Soon after that, she began facing the most devastating loss of all: feeling the abandonment of her true self due to the trauma faced as a child. She believes this was the key to healing her disease—feeling and grieving that loss. Spiritual healing is not quite an intellectual process. This woman’s body was speaking for her, asking her to pay attention to the feelings she spent a lifetime suppressing. This was the hardest work of her life. She lost some relationships, but began building stronger ones—the most important one being with herself. Gabor Mate, a Canadian medical doctor, believes that when we do not express ourselves, our bodies “will do it for us”, that most disease is emotions-based and our body will say “no” for us when our voices won’t. It’s imperative for us to look at how the autonomic nervous system responds to a stressor if we have trouble facing uncomfortable healthy emotions such as sadness, fear, anger and loneliness. According to Mate, “Emotions themselves are electrical, chemical and hormonal discharges of the nervous system. Emotions influence, and are influenced by, the functioning of our major organs. When emotions are repressed, this inhibition disarms the body’s defenses against illness. Repression—disassociating emotions from awareness and relegating them to the unconscious realm—disorganizes and confuses our physiological defenses so that in some people these defenses go awry, becoming the destroyers of health, rather than its protectors.” What Mate means is that when we consistently put others before ourselves, our bodies send out a message that sets up an environment in the body to create illness—usually starting with an inflammation response. When we are not taking care of ourselves emotionally, physical illness will come into the body and say to the emotional self, “Pay attention, please. I’m getting you sick because you need to stop ignoring who you really are.” Apart from gene-related disease, autoimmune disease, heart disease and most cancers appear to be our Spirit’s way of saying, “Pay attention.” This has been and continues to be well documented. Sometimes it takes major life changes for people to “wake up” and put themselves first. If we can listen to the signals our bodies send us, it’s our chance at a life of true joy and love. Not only did this woman’s two brain tumors heal themselves, but her thyroid regulated itself, her arthritic hip stopped causing her pain, her blood pressure improved and her hot flashes stopped completely—all without medication. Her primary care office called to ask, “How did you normalize your thyroid when you’re not on any medication?” She replied, “Got a minute?” Allison Murphy is a NY and CT State licensed health and science educator, health coach and yoga practitioner. Connect at FindingBalanceTogether@gmail.com. May 2019
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eat at certain meal times and not necessarily when hungry. We are taught that illness is something to be feared, and may even be our fault. A seemingly innocuous statement like “put your coat on or you’ll get sick” teaches children not only to disrespect their body’s signals of feeling warm or cold, but that if they do not do what they are told, they will become ill. Many of us have been shamed by others because the size and/or shapes of our bodies do not align with cultural ideals. We have internalized these judgments, blaming ourselves for not being pretty or fit enough, further distancing us from the wisdom of our bodies. Even doctors in our society, who are heralded as the “experts” of our health and wellness, are often taught to discard their patients’ subjective experiences in favor of hard science and expert opinion.
Re-discovering the “Felt Sense”
Rediscover the Felt Sense Connecting with the Body’s Wisdom
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by Victoria Shaw
our body is an amazing reflection of your divinity—a sacred vessel to contain your spirit during your time here on Earth. Unfortunately, many of us have been taught to distrust our physical forms. We have learned to believe our bodies are not strong enough, pretty enough or hearty enough. The goal then becomes a battle with our bodies, to force them into submission to our egoic minds.
Journey to Disempowerment From an early age, most of us are taught that our bodies are to be mastered rather than loved and respected. Instead of learning to attend to the body’s natural signals, as children we are taught to 30
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Infants are born with a deep, kinesthetic awareness of their physical bodies. Over time, however, individuals are taught to identify more with the mind than this “felt sense”. An essential step to connecting with the wisdom of the physical body is tapping back into the felt sense of your physical form. You can begin with this simple exercise introduced by Eckhart Tolle in The Power of Now: Hold your hand up in the air. Without looking at it or moving it, how do you know that it is there? You might feel a slight tingling in the area of the hand or a sense of aliveness. This is the felt sense—the experience of the body from the inside out. Another exercise you can try to access the felt sense is by connecting with the energy of your abdomen. Try putting both hands on your belly, or if you prefer one hand on your belly and the other on the center of your chest. Close your eyes, deepen your breath and tune into the sensation of energy flowing between your two hands or your hand and your belly. Imagine dropping into the center of your body and experiencing the amazing wellspring of energy that exists there. Let go of your thoughts and tune into the sensations. When you practice tapping into the felt sense on a regular basis, you deepen your connection with your physical body and the wisdom that lies therein. You may also experience a deeper level of peace and relaxation, not just when you are practicing this exercise but throughout the day. Over time you will learn to drop into your body at will, even in the most challenging situations, to experience her wisdom and guidance.
Look for Symbolism in Your Symptoms Our bodies contain a vast repository of information regarding mental and emotional well-being. The Western medical paradigm is only just beginning to comprehend the important role of our mental and emotional lives on our physical health. Issues that begin on the mental/emotional planes and remain
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unaddressed, will eventually manifest as symptoms in our physical bodies. A pain in your foot may reflect a deeper fear or uncertainty about moving forward in your life. Tight shoulders or pain in the upper back may indicate that you are carrying a heavy burden. To identify a mental/emotional physical connection, you can enter a meditative state and imagine having a dialogue with the injured or ailing part of your body. Ask what it is trying to tell you and the steps you can take to correct any imbalances and ease the discomfort. You can also ask before you go to sleep to have that information revealed to you in your dreams.
us with our higher spiritual selves. Many people experience their intuition as bodily sensations like goosebumps when something feels right, and a tightening in the gut when something feels wrong. The more we listen to and follow these intuitive experiences, the more we strengthen our connection to this form of guidance. A great way to access the intuitive wisdom is through the felt sense. Before you begin, you can identify a question or issue you would like guidance on. You may want to begin with a simple yes or no question that does not carry a strong emotional charge. You can also ask to be shown what you most need to know. Begin by following the directions above to find your felt sense. Eventually your mind will become still and you will feel a Awaken Your Intuition profound connection with your physical As you deepen your relationship with presence. Gently reflect on your question your body, you will naturally strengthen and notice the sensations of your body, your connection with your intuition. InPRP or Stem Cell therapy is tuition is the inner wisdom that connects letting them be your guide.
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A constricted, heavy or tight feeling may indicate a “no”, whereas a warm, expansive feeling may be a “yes”. You may also “hear” your guidance in the form of a calm, clear inner voice and/or “see” images or symbols that will shed light on your query. The more you practice connecting with your intuition in this manner, the more you will come to understand the particular language of your sensory knowing. Learning to listen to your body means learning to tap into your own internal wisdom. Treat your physical body with love and respect. Know that your body is doing its very best to support you through a sometimes challenging journey on this earth. Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC is an Intuitive Counselor and Consultant with an office in Westport. Connect at 203-254-3403, VFShawPhD@gmail.com or VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com. See ad, page 17.
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TOXIC LEGACY
Breast Implant Warriors Unite by Linda Sechrist
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he U.S. Surgeon General’s warning on cigarettes hasn’t prevented individuals from smoking, nor has the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) list of risks and complications associated with breast implants kept women from undergoing voluntary breast augmentation. Since 1997, the number of saline- and silicone-filled breast implant surgeries has tripled. According to the National Center for Health Research (NCHR), more than 400,000 women and teenagers undergo breast implant surgeries every year, with 75 percent for augmentation of healthy breasts and 25 percent for reconstruction after mastectomies. The marked increase in surgeries implanting these Class III “high risk” medical devices includes many women that undergo
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procedures to replace old implants that have broken or caused other problems. An estimated 40,000 U.S. women a year have the surgery to remove the implants entirely. These “explants” stem from a variety of issues, from rupture or delayed wound healing to broken implants that have caused breast pain, capsule contracture, spontaneous deflation, breast lesion, infection, wrinkling/scalloping and necrosis. Another reason for removal is the growing concern about the reported incidence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a treatable T-cell lymphoma, and breast implant illness (BII) associated with both silicone and saline implants. The FDA first sounded the alarm about the rare lymphoma in 2011, linking
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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it to implants with textured, Velcro-like outer shells. In February, the federal agency issued a letter to healthcare providers seeking to increase awareness “about an association between all breast implants, regardless of filling or texture,” and BIA-ALCL. On the issue of BII and other problems reported by women with implants, the FDA has remained largely silent, suggesting that “studies would need to be larger and longer than these conducted so far.” However, the number of women with implants reporting health problems has prompted the FDA to demand that two manufacturers of the devices conduct proper long-term health studies. The agency sent out letters in March warning of deficiencies in FDA-required research and the possibility that their products could be taken off the market. The move is considered to be a victory for patient activism. Facebook.com/ groups/HealingBreastImplantIllness has become a sanctuary for more than 68,000 women that report a range of symptoms associated with BII. Nicole Daruda, of Vancouver Island, Canada, says she created the group to support women that visited her website, HealingBreastImplantIllness.com, where she told her personal BII story that began with implant surgery in 2005. “I never anticipated an avalanche of women’s stories about the symptoms that I endured before having my explant surgery in 2015.” After hearing from other women, Daruda felt affirmed in her suspicions
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healing ways
that implants had caused her fatigue, brain fog, memory loss, headaches, joint and muscle pain, hair loss, recurring infections, swollen lymph nodes, rashes, irritable bowel syndrome and problems with thyroid and adrenal glands. “I believe that various doctors pigeonholed my symptoms into the category of autoimmune disorders because few general practitioners are aware of BII.” Diana Hoppe, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN in Encinitas, California, never heard of BII until earlier this year. “Doctors rely on published, evidencebased study results, and while there are none linking connective tissue disorders and breast implants, I suspect that the outcomes of studies conducted by breast implant manufacturers are equally as suspicious as the outcomes of studies done by the manufacturers of cigarettes.” One longtime BII combatant says, “My body mounted an all-out war, in the form of a foreign body immune response.” She learned about BII from Tinyurl. com/BreastImplantIllness, but is unable to afford the explant surgery that would remove the apparently toxic invaders. NCHR reports that at the time of explant surgery, approximately three out of five women have had implants and their unhealthy symptoms for 10 years or more. After explant surgery, 89 percent of the women report improvement. However, explant surgery is just the first step. Daruda used chelation and the protocols of Gerson Therapy, a natural treatment that activates the body’s ability to heal itself through an organic, plantbased diet, raw juices, coffee enemas and supplements. “It took me four years to recuperate,” she says. “It didn’t take that long to know the lesson I wanted to share with other women: Self-love and self-worth are more important than society’s false concepts of beauty. The essence of who we are is not tied to any body part.”
�������� ��� �����: What is Neurofeedback?
A WORKSHOP PRESENTED BY Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D, BCN, LPC Board Certified in Neurofeedback Tuesday -- May 7, 2019 at 7:00 PM At the Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge 898 Ethan Allen Hwy., Suite #6, Ridgefield, CT Neurofeedback therapy is a powerful, safe, non-medication treatment for common childhood and adult issues and disorders, including: ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s, Anxiety, Trauma, Stress, Learning Issues, Speech/ Language Issues, Memory, Social Issues, Head Injury, Sports-Related Concussion, Mood Issues, and Pain. Come learn how a QEEG (brain mapping) works, what Neurofeedback therapy is like, and how it could benefit you or your child. We will also discuss our latest technology – AdvancedBioregulation Therapy (BRT), which combines PEMF and Biofeedback to promote healing. Neurofeedback/Biofeedback is rated by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a Level 1 intervention for ADHD – the same as medication!
Please call: 203-438-4848 or e-mail: info@drroseann.com to reserve your spot!
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates
Neurofeedback, Evaluation & Therapy Services
All new clients will receive a $100.00 coupon towards a brain mapping!
Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com. May 2019
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WHEN EMOTIONS ARE PHYSICAL
Bodywork for Trauma and Grief
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by Marlaina Donato
assage is often sages once a week for eight Like a perfect associated weeks felt greater comfort dance partner, a with spa-like and were more capable of skilled bodywork coping with stress. pampering, yet it is also practitioner follows an effective therapy for reducing physical and the nervous system The Body’s Pain emotional pain. Bodyand helps the client Language work can lower blood When the “fight-or-flight” access sources pressure and reduce stress stress response is activated of trauma. hormones, which in turn in the presence of danger helps to balance blood or emotional distress, the ~Lissa Wheeler sugar and boost immubody has one objective: get nity. A surge of the feel-good neurotransus to safety. Yet, many times, the amygmitters serotonin and dopamine is also a dala—the part of the brain that plays a key natural perk of rubdowns. role in this process—becomes hyper alert On the emotional level, massage and falsely perceives danger when there therapy can offer profound benefits for is none. Trauma becomes hardwired into anyone experiencing acute grief or the efthe nervous system. Pain syndromes and fects of a traumatic past. A Swedish study tension are common symptoms. published in the Journal of Clinical Nurs No matter what the pattern for haning shows that bereaved individuals that dling trauma, it takes a lot of work for the received 25-minute hand and/or foot mas- body to repress emotions, and it will create 34
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tension in the form of “armoring” to defend against unwanted feelings. “Trauma is a physiological experience. Body tension that results from unresolved trauma will not respond to only releasing muscle tension,” explains Lissa Wheeler, author of Engaging Resilience: Heal the Physical Impact of Emotional Trauma: A Guide for Bodywork Practitioners. Wheeler’s Medford, Massachusetts, practice focuses on releasing emotional patterns locked in tissue memory. “When the nervous system is frozen in a state of threat long after the actual threat is gone, all of the body’s activities of healthy regulation are challenged. This affects not only skeletal muscles, but also smooth muscle such as what’s found in the gastrointestinal tract. Sleep problems and teeth grinding can also result.”
Cellular Memory and CranioSacral Therapy
Swedish massage, Thai massage and shiatsu are all ideal treatments for chronic pain, grief and emotional imprints locked within the body’s cellular consciousness. CranioSacral Therapy (CST) offers a gentler alternative. “CranioSacral Therapy can unravel cellular stories and assist in freeing repressed or preverbal emotions from childhood,” says Seattle-based CST therapist Barbara Coon. “Experiences are held in the body. Stress and muscular tension activate the vagus nerve, and CST focuses on calming [it].” The vagus nerve facilitates communication between the brain and the heart, lungs and gut. Coon attests to the modality’s body-centered support for reducing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, memory loss, sleep disturbances and grief. “Some people respond well to deep tissue work, while others do better with the gentleness of CranioSacral Therapy,” says Wheeler. “Like a perfect dance partner, a skilled bodywork practitioner follows the nervous system and helps the client access sources of trauma.”
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fit body
Healing Frequencies
Clinical aromatherapy and therapeutic sound can also play a vital role in emotional healing, especially when combined with bodywork. Kelli Passeri, a massage therapist and owner of Sound and Stone Massage, in Pittsburg, Kansas, utilizes a subwoofer speaker beneath her massage table so clients can feel the vibrations of the music. “I play music recorded in specific frequencies that align with the body and the chakras or energy centers to help rebalance the energy body,” says Passeri, who also uses rose quartz crystals in her hot stone sessions. She relies on aromatherapy blends that promote opening on both physical and emotional levels.
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Swedish massage, Thai massage and shiatsu are all ideal treatments for chronic pain, grief and emotional imprints locked within the body’s cellular consciousness Passeri has observed common pain patterns in her clients that often don’t have a physical cause. “The sacrum tends to hold on to lifelong traumatic emotions from childhood, and the shoulders tend to reflect more current emotional blockages and issues,” she says, adding, “I encourage my clients to open up or cry because it’s a healthy thing to do. There’s no need for embarrassment and is totally okay.” Healing on any level might take time, but allowing the body’s stories to be witnessed without judgement is key. “The good news is that when trauma is worked through, the whole body is much more resilient and has a greater capacity to live life fully,” Wheeler says. Marlaina Donato authored Multidimensional Aromatherapy and several other books. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com. May 2019
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by Marlaina Donato
o be female is to be Self-care does and college how to take care of blessed with an innate not necessarily themselves. Prioritizing selfcare is so important. I see so gift for multitasking, have to involve many young women with adrebut in our fast-paced, jamtime; it’s a way nal or thyroid burnout and eatpacked world, daily life for ing disorders. All of that comes most women is a juggling act of being. down to stress, relationship to that can come with a steep ~Christine Hassler self and lack of self-care.” price tag if self-care isn’t on The personal interests of women the to-do list. Depression, anxiety and in their 30s and 40s trying to balance feeling overwhelmed are all too common. motherhood and career often get lost in According to the National Alliance on the tangled underbrush of daily logistics. Mental Illness, one in eight women expeThere can be a deep longing for identity rience depression during their lifetime— well into the 50s, especially when children twice the rate of men. leave the nest. Fears of aging and loneliSeasons of a Woman’s Life ness often accompany women 60 and Each decade poses unique challenges. older. By passionately and joyously taking For women in their 20s and early 30s, care of body and spirit, women of any comparing and finding one’s own path generation can find renewal. can be significant. “The feminist moveSelf-Care As Bedrock ment of our mothers’ generation opened Women play vital roles in family and doors, but so many 20- and 30-something community, much like the foundation of a women have interpreted that as, ‘I have sound building, and if self-care is not the to do everything and be everything,’” says bedrock, all that is supported by it is likely Christine Hassler, life coach and author of to be compromised. “I believe we’ve taken Expectation Hangover: Overcoming Disapthe bait, the promise that if we arrange our pointment in Work, Love, and Life. life circumstances just so, we’ll feel ease The San Diego-based motivational speaker views self-care to be as vital as educa- and happiness. We’re getting to a place as a collective where we see a bankruptcy in tion. “Women are not taught in high school 36
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Benefits of Self-Nourishment Many psychologists agree that self-care can help to improve concentration, promote relaxation, fortify relationships and boost productivity. Most women crave more metime, but don’t know how to implement change. “Without a premise of self-care, we react based on stress patterns. We react with more tension, irritability, guilt and obligation. We say, ‘Yes’ when we want to say, ‘No’. However, when we take stock in our physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, we’re less reactive,” observes Hassler, who underscores self-care as an investment for life. “Most women have inner critics and a negative relationship with self.
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HER SOUL IN BLOOM Self-Care for All Stages of Life
that,” says Miami-based holistic women’s psychiatrist Dr. Kelly Brogan, bestselling author of A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives. Body-mind-spirit self-care is the heart of Brogan’s approach, and self-love is the lifeblood. “Self-love is quite elusive for most of us, perhaps because our selfesteem is contingent [upon it], and we only feel good about ourselves under certain circumstances. The daily choice to prioritize caring for oneself can ultimately lead to an experience of self-love and wholeness,” says Brogan, who compares a ritualized system of daily self-care that comes first to putting on the proverbial oxygen mask before attempting to meet the needs of others. “Balancing self-love and caring for others starts with recognizing and accepting that it’s possible for you to effectively do both. Self-love at the soul level is the catalyst for healing on all levels, which in turn drives our level of self-worth,” concurs Teigan Draig, a spiritual life coach and busy home-schooling mom in Spencerville, Ohio. She reminds us that putting our needs above the wants of others is not being selfish, but is an emotional necessity that helps women get out of the loop of self-defeatism and self-sabotage. “The first step to finding your fire is learning to love yourself, all of yourself. Self-care and self-love are a total wellness package.”
Self-care is essential so we can turn down the volume of the inner critic, stop peoplepleasing and make self-honoring choices.” Balancing motherhood and career or other obligations can leave many women running on empty and resentful. “We would never tell a loved one who desperately needed some TLC to get over it and just keep going. As busy women, when we don’t take the time to care for ourselves, the consequence is our children getting a mom who is preoccupied, anxious and disconnected,” says women’s life coach Veronica Paris, in San Diego. Catering to everyone’s desires and spreading ourselves too thin can backfire. Paris asks, “How do I want my kids to look back on me as a mother? By taking the time to self-care, we’re taking accountability for how we want to show up in our world rather than shape-shifting from one situation to the next. We can teach our children how to do the same.”
Our Emotions As Wellspring For too many women, another common byproduct of self-neglect can be emotional numbing and feeling “flatlined”. A toxic or addictive relationship to food, alcohol or shopping can be a symptom of a deep need to nourish the self and give a voice to suppressed feelings. “One of our greatest challenges is that we’ve become disconnected from our deep seat of power, which is our capacity to feel,” says Brogan. “We’ve been enculturated to disregard our experience of feeling emotions, and because of this, it’s been reduced to a very narrow bandwidth.” Brogan believes that it is key for women to reestablish a connection to nature’s rhythms and their own feminine, fluid energy, as well as giving up the need to control. “I think it’s the work of many women to understand that we’re not here to meet the needs of everyone on the planet—and with our loved ones, it disempowers them as much as we’re feeling disempowered. We’re here to meet our own needs and then offer compassion and caring in a way that comes from a more boundaried space.” Hassler affirms that when women are fully present, every aspect of life can be
viewed through a clearer lens. “Self-care helps us tap into our super power, which is our intuition, and by doing that, we know what we need and act on that.”
Thrive With Small Changes Beginning the day with self-care can be as simple as taking the time to meditate and breathe deeply for a minute or two before getting out of bed and opting for a healthier breakfast. Feeding our senses and feasting on what gives us joy can be a way of life. “Self-care does not necessarily have to involve time; it’s a way of being,” says Hassler. “The more time we spend on self-care tells the subconscious mind that we’re worth it.” Draig suggests setting personal boundaries, and part of this means reserving time for ourselves. “When I became a new mother, I was running on fumes. Sometimes my daily me-time was only five minutes here or 10 minutes there, but it saved my sanity. Learn to schedule selfcare time in your calendar as you would anything else,” she says, noting, “My house was not always spotless, but it was a trade I was willing to make so I could take care of myself and be a better mother.” Being innovative can be an ally. “Ten minutes walking the dog or taking the baby out in a stroller can become 10 minutes spent saying positive self-affirmations,” suggests Paris. “That 15-minute drive can be spent deep breathing instead of listening to the news on the radio.” Blooming into our best possible self is returning to our essence. “It’s about taking off the masks, no longer living according to expectations and other people. It’s about radical self-acceptance,” says Hassler. Each decade poses an invitation to grow and commit to self-nourishment. “There will be days where you feel like you can’t get the hang of it, but you’ll arrive, and when you do, no matter what age you are, it can be magical,” Draig says. Marlaina Donato is a composer and author of several books in women’s spirituality and holistic health. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.
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UNLEASH YOUR POWER!
We can often feel our personal energy tank being drained— from everyday tasks to taking care of our family to fulfilling others’ needs—and we may feel guilty or even selfish for taking care of ourselves first. That guilt is an emotion we can perpetuate in our mind, in our own self-talk, and it often speaks untruths to us. Here’s a truth worth telling yourself: you can take back your personal power. One of the best ways to do this is through strengthening your emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the term used to describe a set of competencies, including personal power, which frame our ability to be aware of our emotions and use them as information to make better choices about our thoughts and behaviors. It’s a fancy term for managing your “self ” in the most effective way, given the direct situation. It’s a genuine way of empowering yourself as a woman, and it can stay with you for a lifetime. Personal power contains self-confidence and the inner strength of knowing you can handle any situation or challenge. It gives you the courage to live the life you choose and to speak your truth. Here are some ways you can strengthen this competency.
by Paige Dest
Create a success log. Make and keep a list of your successes and what emotions you had in the moment of each success. The point is to recognize how powerful you really are and acknowledge the moments in which you shine.
o you often feel like you’ve given yourself away? Do you nurture others to the point that you neglect your own needs at times? Or perhaps you listen and accept how others describe you? This can lead to negative, and even false, self-talk, but there’s power in defining your own self, and there’s a balance that can be maintained between nurturing others’ emotional well-being and nurturing your own. However, it takes focus, practice and time to train your mind to allow yourself the guilt-free permission to stop the rest of the world, if even just for a moment, and take back your power.
Acknowledge that when you say “yes” to someone or something out of obligation, you are saying “no” to someone or something else. What is your true priority? If you say “yes” to someone else, are you saying “no” to yourself? If so, stop and realize that you are more important than anyone in your life (except perhaps your children, and only in certain moments). Define your needs and what’s important to you first; what do you value? Then you can move toward where your true priorities lie.
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Set boundaries around what is acceptable to you. You can teach others how to treat you. Sometimes they may not want to change, but you can. Practice self-compassion. Take care of yourself physically, mentally and spiritually. Close your eyes and quiet your mind. When you picture yourself at your most relaxed, what do you picture? Do that. If you can’t do it because of a limited budget, take a warm bath and think only positive thoughts, or write yourself a “love” letter including what you’re most grateful for about yourself. Remember, you’re still learning how to care for yourself, so be patient with yourself. Don’t fret over the past; it’s gone. You have the choice to define your life and mindset for your future. Positive affirmation. Pick three of your most positive attributes—the ones that make you smile when you think of them, e.g. smart, kind, great dancer, influential teacher. Write these on a sticky note and add the words “capable” and “important”. Put this sticky note on your bathroom mirror, so you see it a few times a day. Read it, speak it (out loud or in a whisper) and picture it in your mind when you are outside of this room. Always remember: you are on this Earth for a reason, to serve a purpose. You deserve the power with which you were born, you have the capability to release it and you have the permission to choose it. Speak kindly to yourself and say “yes” to your power. Paige Dest is a Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach and Core Values Index Practitioner and the owner of BYODestiny— through which she provides emotional intelligence coaching to individuals and presents retreats, workshops and national webinars on emotional intelligence and happiness topics. She is also the founder of The Flutter Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit that supports programs which give our youth better emotional control. Dest will be hosting an Emotional Empowerment Retreat on July 6, on Enders Island in Mystic. Connect at Paige@BYODestiny.com, or purchase tickets at bit.ly/EmotionalEmpowerment201905.
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Divine Feminine Rising by Nicole Miale
I
n traditional Catholic teachings, the historical figure Mary Magdalene is presented as a prostitute saved by Jesus Christ. Over the years, scholars and historians have put forth other theories about the woman some call the 13th apostle, who may have actually been Jesus’
wife. There is more mystery than fact known about this pivotal individual from history, and that mystery is what initially drew Milford-based author and intuitive Gloria Amendola to begin studying Mary Magdalene. What began as curiosity has become a life-changing journey.
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“The doorway opened for me when someone invited me to support them in attending a Christian evangelical church service,” Amendola explains. “I was struck by the lack of feminine representation in the teachings, which was even more lacking than my own early Catholic upbringing. I decided to research women in the Old and New Testament with the intention of creating character studies to better understand the stories of these women. My plan was to write a series, but Mary Magdalene immediately showed herself to me.” The path shown by the spirit of Mary Magdalene led Amendola to write multiple books on her subject, travel to legendary places where Mary Magdalene is supposed to have lived or died, and, since 2006, hold approximately 300 Magdalene Circles around the world. “The Circles began as a way to bring women together,” Amendola says. “The original idea was for me to present the information I was studying and experiencing, answer questions and have discussion about the topic, then have either a meditation or shamanic drumming experience.” The circles range from 15 to 22 people in size and meet once per month. The first circle Amendola facilitated was in Milford and it ran for 10 years. A group that still meets in Manchester at the Ravenwood Holistic Healing Center has been meeting for 12 years, surpassing Amendola’s original expectation. “I thought they would last for a while and then fade out,” she explains. “But the Manchester group didn’t want to stop. It still keeps unfolding.” A recent circle in
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Manchester focused on sound, specifically some of the sounds of the Essenes—well-trained healers who migrated to the Holy Land and brought their secretive and heart-centered teachings with them. “When you look back into ancient texts and mystical ways, we find words of power; we find techniques using sound, light and the power of the human voice,” Amendola says. “These healing tools were lost for a long time as the Western medical approach dominated, but they are returning. We are completing a cycle and moving toward a more enlightened time.” The suppression of Mary Magdalene is indicative of the suppression of the voice of the feminine throughout time, Amendola says. But the old is breaking down, and the new is coming online, making it a critical time for women to awaken to their power and do their inner work. “We as women must find the time and space for our own inner work. I don’t know if we can survive these intense times if we don’t do that,” Amendola says. “We want awakening to be a spiritual, safe and positive experience. I’ve always been a fierce protector of the light. My job is to prepare a safe and creative atmosphere for people. This allows them to relax, consider new perspectives, and allow for visceral reactions to arise within them, to experience what they never thought they could.” That may mean surfacing of traumatic memory or past-life recall; Amendola says both have occurred during circles she has facilitated. She works with individuals during the circle and afterward to process and integrate whatever has come up. “I want people to succeed in their personal evolution; I don’t want anyone to crash and burn,” she says. Despite the tumultuous backdrop of the time we’re living in, a recent visit to the nation’s capital left Amendola feeling more hopeful than dismayed. A peaceful gathering at the Washington Mall representing a wide variety of people reminded her that people have more in common than they are separate. “We’re not divided,” she says. “We keep being told that we are, but I don’t feel it and I didn’t see it in D.C. either. People need hope to move forward. Anything I can do to support growth from a place of love, I’m there. I’m 110 percent there.” Gloria Amendola is an author, intuitive and group facilitator with a passion for esoteric knowledge, the hidden history of the Divine Feminine and the dreamtime. She is a Reiki Master and shamanic drummer. Amendola has written two novels as well as a channeled trilogy called Mary Magdalene: Revelations from a First Century Avatar, available on Amazon. She will be presenting Celebrating the Divine Feminine on May 11 at The Red Barn in Durham. Admission is $15 before May 4, $20 after. To connect with Amendola or to register for the event, call 203-876-9936 or email HolyGrailMary@gmail.com. Nicole Miale is publisher of Natural Awakenings Fairfield/Housatonic Valley, CT and Natural Awakenings Greater Hartford, CT. Connect at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.
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Iridology: Power in Your Eyes
How You Look is How You Be by Randy Schulman
M
ost people go to the eye doctor because they have trouble seeing clearly and need new glasses or contact lenses, or they have been referred by their internist or pediatrician. An eye examination is not just for
glasses to improve eyesight; it reveals so much more. Most eye doctors look at eye health, which is a strong indicator of overall health and wellness, and refraction, which is a measure of the need for compensatory
eyeglass prescription. An integrative vision care specialist looks at all of that and more. Behavioral or integrative optometrists look at eyesight and eye health concerns, measuring nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism as well as checking for glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. But on top of that, these doctors additionally assess focusing, eye teaming, eye movements, visual processing, eye-hand-body coordination and auditory visual integration, as well as take a detailed history regarding lifestyle—including sleep, nutrition, exercise, life stressors and habitual demands. Because “how you see” affects “how you be”, the overall functioning of the visual system will affect how you function in everyday activities such as reading, writing, driving, sports and computer use. If you have trouble with eye movements or tracking, you may have difficulty with reading or staying in the lines when writing. If your eyes do not focus or team well, it will make it harder to maintain focus for reading, shift your focus while driving and negatively affect sports performance. Poor eye-hand coordination or reduced visual auditory skills will correspond to clumsiness, disinterest in sports and trouble following directions. If you have difficulty with visual processing, you may also have difficulty in recalling information or staying organized.
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Behavioral optometrists will determine if your current visual status can meet your daily demands and make recommendations for treatment, including therapeutic or stress relieving glasses, vision or perceptual learning therapy and lifestyle modifications. A select few eye care practitioners will go a step further in assessing your visual functioning and overall health by looking at the eyes. Along with the vision examination, iridology allows the doctor to gain insight into the health of specific organs and systems in the body, learning style and even personality. These practitioners can give you input as to which systems may require further testing and evaluation by other integrative practitioners—such as chiropractors, osteopaths, nutritionists, acupuncturists, bioenergy counselors and naturopaths. They can also make recommendations regarding learning and assist you or your educators or employers on strategies for improving learning and overall success. Such an expanded view of the visual system also gives the practitioner information on specific strengths and weaknesses in your personality. Iridology gives you information on who you are as a person, how your body functions, how you learn and even how you show up in the world, at school, work, at play and in relationships. These insights can be shared with family members or other support people such as a mentor, coach or psychotherapist in order to improve relationships, sports performance or advancement in personal development. Iridology goes beyond the eye and allows us to see and address our blind spots, freeing up energy for more of the life we want and love. The intelligence gained from this expanded view allows us to recognize and step over obstacles, gaining access and support for needs we did not know we had. No greater assessment tool is available that can so quickly give you information in so many areas of your life. What better way to achieve personal empowerment than through the eye? It is important to further understand that any condition within the eye or the body can be viewed as a call to listen to what the body and spirit is telling you. Many vision conditions are signals to address concerns regarding physical, mental and emotional health. Specific therapies, including colored light therapy, prisms, homeopathy and meditative practices, can bring you into balance and harmonize areas in your life that are calling for attention. For more information on iridology including discussions on spirituality, vision and consciousness, see the works of Dr. Ellen Tart Jensen at BernardJensen.com, Dr. Marc Grossman at NaturalEyeCare.com, Dr. Sam Berne at DrSamBerne.com, Dr. Jacob Liberman at JacobLiberman.org, Denny Ray Johnson at Rayid.com or Roberto Kaplan, OD at Beyond2020Vision.com. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD, specializes in behavioral optometry and vision therapy, pediatrics, learning disabilities, and preventative and integrative vision care for all ages. EyeCare Associates has locations in Trumbull, Southport, Stamford and Norwalk. Connect at CTEyeCareAssociates.com. See ad, page 13.
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The Shaman
Spiritual Calling
Shamans and Mystics: Surrender to Grace
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by Deana Paqua
n the last several years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the ancient Earth-honoring traditions across the globe, including the path of the Shaman and the Mystic. These terms are being re-defined in popular culture and scholarly writings alike, from books, handmade and commercially produced products and films, to workshops and budding practitioners of all sorts. While there have been many positives, including renewed interest in being good stewards and caretakers of the Earth, there has also been a great deal of misunderstanding, misinformation, commercialization, cultural appropriation and colonial entitlement in how these ancient traditions have been approached and their knowledge shared. What many refer to as Shamanism—seeing the interconnectedness of all living things, including human beings, plants, animals, trees, stones, mountains, lakes and rivers, and that all of these beings contain a spark of the Divine—is actually Animism. Many traditional cultures across the globe, including the Eastern traditions, ancient Europeans, Africans, North and South Americans and others, have had this similar perspective and belief that we are all connected—to each other, to the Earth and all of nature. In this view, we are interdependent and are much better working together and in harmony with nature. 44
Somewhere in all of us this wisdom exists, and we know more recent societal disregard and destruction of the environment is wrong. We are hurting our relatives, the trees, plants and many species are dying off each day. We have more technology at our disposal, yet we have worse diseases and more depression than ever. We know we have gone astray and are trying to find our way back. Many of us have lost the ancestral wisdom of healing plants, sacred Earthhonoring rituals and ceremonies, our relationship with our ancestors in spirit and how to honor the change of seasons. This massive separation we have felt for many generations due to our disconnection from nature and our own Divine Source, has helped create this massive state of dis-ease. We need to also acknowledge and remember that for many of these original practices and traditions—the ones that were not stamped out by governments or churches, or other tribes—many of the people and healers belonging to these tribes have suffered greatly; some were even killed because of their beliefs and practices. We only need to look as far as our own backyards here in the Northeast, to see the history of murder and displacement of the First Nations tribes that lived here on this land we now call home.
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These traditional tribes and cultures all had their own unique rituals, ceremonies, healing methods and social structures. They had unique titles for their healers and spiritual leaders. They are not all called “Shaman”, which is a title for a very specific type of healer from the Evenki region of Siberia, derived from the term Saman. A Shaman goes through a very unique process of initiation, often from childhood—of mysterious illness, visitations of powerful and often disturbing ancestral spirits and a surrendering of their own wishes and desires for a normal life—to honor the path that the spirits or their ancestors have chosen for them. It is a path often of great trial and suffering. The Shaman goes into a repeated trance state, often with the living being of their drum, sometimes known as the Windhorse, to travel into the spirit world to connect with their powerful spiritual allies—an ancient ancestor who was a healer—to facilitate healing for their community. Shamans do not do “self-healing” through their Shamanic work; their work is in service to their community. It is a path of personal sacrifice and very specific cultural traditions. To show respect and honor to those who have been chosen for this very specific role in these tribes, it is important we avoid taking the name “Shaman” for ourselves as contemporary practitioners and spiritual seekers. The contemporary practices of Shamanism from the West are often based on Core Shamanism, created by anthropologist Dr. Michael Harner. These practices are simplified meditation and trance-inducing methods without a cultural overlay that most folks can learn to various degrees of efficacy. It is a wonderful tool, and many folks have flocked to workshops and training programs alike over the past few decades. However, it is important to remember that the traditions of the original Shamans are based on thousands of years of wisdom and practice—not something one learns in a weekend workshop, or even after a few years. Today, we see the title of Shaman used
as a name for everything including soap, oracle cards, crystals, courses and books of all sorts that may or may not bare any resemblance to the original traditional practices. It’s important in this age of consumerism and materialism to remember the sacred, and that people given this title properly by their tribe and community have died and suffered. Even though Shamans and Shamanism seem to have made it into the limelight of recent popular culture, there are many other types of healers both in traditional and contemporary cultures who work with a spiritual foundation of healing. One is not better than the other. Mystics are one such type of healer.
The Mystic
Mystics find the voice of the Divine everywhere. They seek to surrender, or open themselves completely to the experience of the Divine. They may or may not go into altered states of consciousness to make the connection. They can find the supernatural in the natural, and the Divine in the mundane activities of everyday life—from walking to the mailbox, to drinking a cup of hot tea, to folding laundry. However, Mystics also honor the beauty and sacredness all around them, and may feel a strong connection to the Divine within nature, such as the fiery colors of an evening sunset burning across the sky or a majestic mountain pass with a recent luminous snowfall dusting. The Mystic can also form strong connections to the spirit realms just as deep as the Shaman. They may not travel through the various dimensions of the spirit worlds, but rather stay fully conscious in this physical world and communicate and connect with the spirits of the trees, mountains and plants all around them. They might facilitate a healing session or a ceremony, praying and calling on their ancestors, spirits of nature and other beings of Light that support their connection to the Divine source, such as guardian angels and spirit guides.
they are welcomed into it, or it may be a more personal spiritual journey that may not look like anything anyone else has seen before. Each of us is unique and is called by the Divine and nature in our own way. The path of the Shaman is one that is specific to a cultural tradition, despite the re-defining of this title by some recent anthropologists, authors and teachers. Studying or learning a contemporary Shamanic or Shamanistic path is something else entirely, but knowing and respecting the difference is important. Both the Shaman and Mystic know the importance of humility and respect, and the concept of surrendering to a power greater than themselves that can support deep connection and healing. We have much to learn from both spiritual paths as well as others. We each have our own unique spiritual gifts and connection we can cultivate, which we can do by honoring ourselves and what resonates for us, and by respecting ancient traditions and titles. The two don’t need to be mutually exclusive. Deana Paqua, MA, LMT is a teacher of spiritual and holistic health, shamanic practitioner and teacher, licensed massage therapist, Reiki master and adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury. She has a private practice at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center in Ridgefield. Connect at EmbodytheSacred.net. See ad, page 23.
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he Q’ero tribe of Peru have lived for hundreds of years at high elevations in the Andes Mountains and are highly revered spiritual healers across the globe. They are mostly herders and farmers, living generally very simple lives, but lives that are also sacred and spiritual. They are referred to in many cases as Shaman, but technically this is not correct, as they do not journey into the spirit realms to meet the Divine. They are actually more Mystics than Shaman. They communicate and form deep bonds of connection with the Earth, known as Pachamama, and with the local incredible Andes mountain range, whose grand spirits are known as Apus. Each Q’ero healer forms his or her own connections to Pachamama, the Apus and other cosmic beings and spirits of nature. They build these relationships over decades and generously share what they know with others, whether from their own tribe, other Andean tribes or from anywhere else in the world.
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Shed Old Attitudes with Your Clothes Be Empowered by Social Nudism
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by Ronna E. Krozy and Nancy Greenhouse
hat comes to mind when you think of personal empowerment? Do you think of someone who is open to new or even unconventional experiences? Who speaks her mind, even when others might disagree? Are you that person? Being empowered allows you to be happy with who you are and to recognize the many strengths and resources that
dwell right within you. Able to defend your own rights, you are also able to advocate for others. When you feel empowered, you enjoy a sense of well-being. The first step toward empowerment is understanding that your power lives within. No one gives it to you. It’s something you already have, and the sooner you recognize it, the better.
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If your sense of empowerment needs a boost, start by examining your body image. Are you carrying old baggage in the form of self-judgments? Do you worry that you are “too” something—fat, skinny, busty, flat, flabby, wrinkled, scarred or whatever? Fortunately, there is a proven path to personal empowerment right within your reach. It is social nudism, an experience— and, for many, a way of life—that helps individuals free themselves of body shame. Once you do that, you are free to harness your innate inner strength, build selfconfidence and love yourself just as you are. “As a woman who has always been ‘of size’, becoming a nudist was the first time I could truly and thoroughly accept myself and feel comfortable in my own skin,” attests one woman who is now a committed nudist. This sense of self-comfort has been echoed by many others, including men. Social nudism simply means being free of clothing in the company of other like-minded people, in a safe place, such as Solair Recreation League, in Woodstock, Connecticut, a family-friendly nudist resort in operation since 1934. Nudist resorts like Solair enforce strict codes of appropriate behavior where everyone, including children, are safe and comfortable. Such resorts are voluntarily regulated by the American Association for Nude Recreation, the largest and oldest organization for nudism advocacy in North America. When you visit a nudist resort to participate in social nudism, along with your clothing you have the chance to strip yourself of old burdens and restraints of attitude. From there, additional benefits include: • A sense of belonging—a social benefit. Social nudism promotes a community where men, women and children share a wholesome, healthy way of life. • Liberation from old thought patterns— an emotional benefit. Without clothing, everyone is equal, exposed and trusting. When you take off your clothes, you take a leap or “risk” you may never have anticipated. Yet you find yourself relaxed as never before—and even feeling courageous. This is empowerment.
• You de-stress—a physical benefit. Those who participate in social nudism find that their blood pressure drops, and they absorb more vitamin D. Plus, scientific studies show that when you sleep naked, your skin temperature cools—a key ingredient for good rest. • You may also feel spiritual benefits such as a sense of harmony with nature, peacefulness and unity with a creator or greater power. Social nudism means freeing yourself of old constraints and burdens. Perhaps they are vestiges of your upbringing. When you remove your clothing in a safe setting in the company of other accepting, like-minded people, you give yourself permission to be your whole self. You drop your own notions of perfection that may be obsolete or limiting—and feel empowered. Social nudism is all about empowerment and wellness, because each emphasizes personal choice, freedom and control. Personal empowerment means having the freedom and power to do what you want or to control what happens to you. It is a component of a healthy self-image. Wellness means living the best possible life you can, under your personal control, including creating the right environment for a healthier lifestyle. Social nudism, or naturism, is a chosen way of life to promote wellness, self-acceptance and freedom. Increasingly, scientific research confirms what naturists have always known. According to the Journal of Happiness Studies, one of an increasing number of studies about social nudism, “Individuals do experience increases in positive body-image, self-esteem and life satisfaction after participating in real naturist activities.” In addition, according to Nude Recreation from a Woman’s Perspective, social nudism’s greatest contributions to today’s woman are self-acceptance and total relaxation. “When my husband suggested we visit a nudist resort, I couldn’t imagine baring myself like that,” recalls one woman. “It was more than my body I was afraid of baring. I was afraid of exposing my lack of confidence. But I agreed to try it. Not so long after I took off my clothes, I felt a true sense of warmth. It wasn’t just being one layer closer to the sun, but also a sense of warmth toward myself. In one afternoon, I learned that my body is just fine as it is. That acceptance has led to a feeling of strength in other areas of my life.” If you decide to give social nudism a try, you may discover within yourself that same personal strength and feeling of satisfaction. By following this path to personal empowerment, you have nothing to lose—except a few articles of clothing and whole lot of self-doubt. Ronna E. Krozy, EdD, RN is a retired professor of nursing and a Trustee of the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR). Nancy Greenhouse has created development programs for numerous Boston-area nonprofit organizations. Both are long-time members of AANR as well as Solair Recreation League in Woodstock, Connecticut. For more information about Solair, call 860-928-9174 or visit SolairRL.com. For general information about social nudism, visit aanr.com. See ad, page 22.
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with others—even if the perpetrator is someone she knows. When it comes to self-defense, there is no right or wrong in any situation. We need to do what we can with the tools we have to survive; in the end, that is all that matters.
Five Self-defense Strategies Every Woman Should Know
Trust instincts or the “gut” – If a situation doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t safe. If there is someone making us feel uneasy standing there when the elevator opens, wait for the next elevator.
Personal Safety is the Ultimate Empowerment
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by Concetta Bibens
elf-defense begins with the belief that we are worth defending. Every woman should be able to live freely, dress as she pleases and drink whatever she wants. It’s important to know that, as women, we shouldn’t think it is our responsibility to prevent an assault or to place the blame for an attack on us. Men need to acknowledge boundaries, understand consent and respect women. But we can still invest time and energy into personal safety to reduce the risk of experiencing violence. Based on current law enforcement reports and feedback from assault survivors, one in four women is going to be attacked in her lifetime. Even more shocking is that 78 percent of attacks against women are committed by people they know, also known as “non-strangers.” This second statistic is so relevant. If a self-defense system is mainly based on aggressive tactics such as strikes, eye gouges or groin shots, and an attacker is familiar, we may be hesitant to defend ourselves or we may do nothing at all. 48
A self-defense system must have a violence scalability factor, which means scaling the response from verbal assertiveness and nonviolent de-escalation tactics to deadly force techniques for worst-case scenarios. No matter who the attacker is—stranger or not—there must be a plan.
Leverage and Timing versus Strength and Speed
Another important thing to keep in mind is that a chosen self-defense system must work regardless of whether it is taught to men or women. We should always assume that the attacker will be bigger, heavier and stronger than we are. For this reason, rely on techniques that are based on leverage, timing and energy efficiency rather than strength, speed and athleticism. Beyond the physical techniques, the right self-defense system must reinforce awareness principles, risk assessment, and verbal and psychological strategies a woman can use to set safe boundaries
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Present confidence – Predators look for weak appearing targets, such as a women staring at her phone or distracted by her kids. Even if distracted, try to appear “together” with shoulders back and the head up. Strong verbal responses – If a predator starts a conversation with a potential victim, he may be “interviewing” her to see if she’s easily intimidated. While frightening, this is a perfect opportunity to speak with confidence and let the attacker know he’s chosen the wrong victim. Assume a non-confrontational stance – A relaxed but ready stance will allow the attacker to let his guard down a bit because he assumes compliance. The key is to be “fight-ready” with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, hands up, palms open and chin slightly down. This position allows for de-escalation or defense depending how the situation plays out. Don’t panic if knocked down – Ninetyfive percent of all street fights end up on the ground. Eighty percent of rapes occur with the victim either prone or supine. If the attack actually happens, we should assume we will end up on the ground. The positive side of this situation is that most attackers are not skilled in ground fighting; they are just bullies trying to knock a smaller person down. A few groundspecific techniques can give a massive advantage.
A self-defense system must have a violence scalability factor, which means scaling the response from verbal assertiveness and nonviolent de-escalation tactics to deadly force techniques for worst-case scenarios.
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Work through a program at an individual pace. And even though it may feel challenging at times, the right self-defense system will provide strength and confidence when we need it most. Find a good partner to practice with. l
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Someone who is helpful, patient, detailed-oriented, gives good positive feedback to their partner and wants to work together to get through this program is a good training partner. Someone who is competitive, too aggressive or wants to defeat the techniques may not be the best partner. It’s important to remember that the road to self-defense mastery is one that takes time and patience with a trusted partner.
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The “violence scalability factor” and the fact that all attacks lead to defense from the ground is the cornerstone of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, a Brazilian martial art invented in 1925 during a time of horrendous street violence to empower smaller people not to walk in fear of larger attackers. Law enforcement agencies and military professionals all over the world have now adopted Gracie Jiu-Jitsu as their training style. This partnership with law enforcement around the country revealed the shocking statistics surrounding sexual assault mentioned above. It is important to note that for those who are survivors of assault, understand that some of the techniques and discussions in a self-defense program may trigger strong emotions of past incidents. They are to be commended for their strength and willingness to take an important step on the path towards personal empowerment.
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How is a Self-Defense Mission Accomplished?
Ultimately, the effectiveness of a self-defense system is not measured by the number of fights that are won, but rather the number of fights that are avoided through heightened awareness, elevated confidence and boundary setting. And, in the end, the most important thing to remember is that we are worth defending. Concetta Bibens is a master certified health and wellness coach, national health symposium speaker and women’s self-defense instructor who has empowered over 18,000 clients to heal their families through natural medicine, nutrition and fitness. Connect at 347-403-4049 (text), Info@MelfordandConcetta.com or Meetup.com/The-4-Pillars-Of-Health.
valleyspiritcoop.com | 860.619.2788 6 Green Hill Rd. Washington Depot CT
May 2019
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Occupational Therapy as a Means of Empowerment
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by Jennifer C. Hirschberg-Wise
mpowerment defined is the ability to control and manage your life in a way that yields the most opportunity, satisfaction and joy. A sense of independence and determination and pursuit of meaningful activities underlie this drive. What happens if an illness, accident, injury or diagnosis changes the direction of your life and causes you to question everything you thought you knew about your life path? It’s important to never feel like you are alone and that, indeed, “it takes a village”— plus a lot of patience and compassion. Occupational therapy can support that journey.
Basics of Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) is the holistic approach to increasing function following an injury, illness, developmental delay or diagnosis. It is a holistic approach to wellness and living and performing to the best of ability due to any physical, mental or cognitive differences for a person of any age. The term “occupation” means roles and is focused on the person’s interests, preferences and task demands and performance abilities. OT personnel are specifically state licensed and board registered and are certified Occupational Therapists and Certified Occupational Therapy As50
sistants, requiring different educational requirements and responsibilities. There are multiple areas for this profession to address with a focus on personal routines, abilities and individual goals. The term ADL, or activities of daily living, is focused on the ability to care for oneself and entails dressing, washing, toileting, grooming and feeding—basically, everything you do to care for and maintain your body to survive. Other tasks can be considered the IADL, or instrumental activities of daily living, which can include: shopping, driving, laundry, household management and cooking. Imagine that you are effortlessly going through your routine without becoming overly focused on it because it’s already established and you have the physical strength, coordination, visual, attention and mental abilities to sequence and problem solve tasks. You can complete getting up with or without an alarm clock, shower, get dressed, feed pets and make breakfast using whatever appropriate appliance. You can even motivate any children or partners in the house to get up and go about their routine, pack lunch, eat breakfast, check emails, brush teeth and get out of the house to begin the day, which may include driving or walking to your destination.
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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Now, imagine that you had a cerebrovascular accident or stroke that impacted your ability to use your dominant hand to prepare breakfast or impacted your ability to walk. How would your life and routines change? Could you dress yourself? Eat? Speak? Do the same job? Care for your family in the way you want? What about the child who has sensory sensitivity and is impacted by the brightness of the sun or the smell of coffee and hides when he hears his sibling’s alarm clock go off? How might this child’s and his caregiver’s routine need to be altered so everyone can complete their morning routine? If the child goes to school, how is the classroom organized and experienced by the child, and how is he or she able to learn? What about an older adult with the onset of cognitive changes, worried that she may have the beginning of dementia? She has visual changes, falls often because she can’t see the steps and cannot prepare food using the stove—therefore stops eating properly and doesn’t call family or friends for support because she “doesn’t want to be a burden”. What about a young woman who recently had both legs amputated due to complications from infection following surgery? How is she going to get into the tub to take a shower and navigate the halls in her school?
How can OT help?
Occupational Therapists work with individuals directly one-on-one or in a group setting to address the impact of an illness, injury or condition to empower individuals to develop new ways of participating in their routines and being able to achieve either the previous level of independence or maximize their ability to complete desired tasks. When someone encounters a catastrophic or life changing event, or has a developmental delay that will impact their learning and interaction with others and the environment, their world is forever changed. What they were able to do before may not be possible any time soon after the event—or may never be possible. An occupational therapist supports that individual during the rehabilitation and recovery process by teaching them new skills to recover, adapt or compensate abilities.
It is important to grieve the loss of function or what once was normal and to acknowledge it honestly and openly. There is no need to sugarcoat things or pretend to ignore how life may be different. True empowerment begins when there is a personal commitment to healing and rehabilitation or recovery. It’s the recognition that a person didn’t ask for, want or even imagine the circumstances that occurred, but nevertheless, there will be a “new normal”. There’s still a lot of value to their life and personal goals can be realized. Occupational Therapists work in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, independent and assisted living communities, behavioral health centers, community centers and programs, rehabilitation centers, pediatric and adult outpatient centers and private homes.
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Getting Started with OT
In the state of Connecticut, a physician’s order is required to order a medically indicated OT evaluation before a plan of care can be developed. At the time of meeting with an Occupational Therapist, an evaluation or assessment is completed exploring appropriate areas of concern and a person’s physical, cognitive and functional performance in various areas. There is a lot of exploratory questioning, standardized testing to develop baseline scores and plan of care development, in which the frequency and proposed duration of therapy is discussed before proceeding. There is always collaboration between the Occupational Therapist and other members of the medical team, as appropriate. The most critical feature is that the plan of care is designed based on collaboration with the patient, who is expressing his or her goals, preferences, what areas of function are challenging and which areas of life are most important to address. In a school setting, there is a process of identification of possible barriers to learning and a referral to an Occupational Therapist who is usually on site to evaluate the child with parent’s permission. Results and recommendations are discussed with the student’s parents or guardians to discuss an educational program. An initial brief screening can take place before a full evaluation is ordered and completed to note any challenges that may be appropriate for further evaluation. You can begin your conversation with a doctor or student’s teacher and discuss areas of concern. A local membership organization called the Connecticut Occupational Therapist Association and a national advocacy organization, the American Occupational Therapy Association, can provide different resources for patients and clinicians. Jennifer C. Hirschberg-Wise is the founder of Radiant Journey LLC, Occupational Therapy & Integrative Wellness and is committed to working with you or your loved one to reclaim your life and function after injury, illness or diagnosis. She has experience working with people across the lifespan with a variety of orthopedic, neurological and physical abilities. Connect at 860-916-9742, Jennifer@RadiantJourneyLLC.com or RadiantJourneyLLC.com.
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naturally healthy pet
Upcoming Events for Looking Glass Animal Shelter
The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!
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idgefield’s Looking Glass Animal Rescue, an awardwinning nonprofit, volunteerbased animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing animals from high-kill shelters, hoarding situations, puppy mills, animal fighting rings and more, regularly holds events to raise money for the rescue. This month, there’s a fun shopping fundraiser and a guest bartender dinner and drinks night. Patricia’s Presents, now located at 164 Greenwood Avenue, in Bethel, will host a “Sip, Snack & Shop” for a cause fundraiser on May 3 from 5 to 8pm. End the week with a night of retail therapy, drinks and snacks—and a percentage of all purchases will be donated to Looking Glass Animal Rescue. On May 16, Looking Glass Animal Rescue board members and volunteers will be guest bartending to raise money for their critical care animals. The Dinner + Drinks fundraiser (Guest Bartender Night) will be held from 6 to 9pm at Gallo, at 5 Grove Street in Ridgefield. All cash and credit card tips from the bar will be donated, as well as 10 percent of liquor sales from the bar and 10 percent of food from the dining room, if you state that you’re there for the LGAR fundraiser. There will be raffles and silent auction items by the bar. For more information about Looking Glass Animal Rescue or these events, visit LGARInc,org.
Newtown Strut Your Mutt Dog Walk and Fair
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
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ewtown’s 10th Annual Strut Your Mutt event will be held on May 18 from 11am to 2pm, with registration beginning at 10:30am. This dog-friendly event will include a 2K dog walk, the Strut Your Mutt Pageant, vendors from across Connecticut, prizes, games and food. Proceeds raised will support the Newtown Park & Bark, the off-leash dog park located on Old Farm Road in Newtown. It is run by a volunteer group of Newtown resident dog lovers who joined forces in 2009. The town provided a parcel of land. Private donations and annual fundraising events have raised funds to create and maintain the two-acre field adjacent to the animal shelter. Admission is $10 per dog; there is a limit of three dogs per handler. This year, they’ve added the option to create teams. Team up by breed, color, size or just buddies; a six-pack can register for just $50. Those who register before May 15 will receive a free gift. For more information, email FriendsOfNewtownParkandBark@gmail.com or visit NewtownParkandBark.org. Event Location: Trades Ln and Keating Farms Ave (at the flagpole), Fairfield Hills Campus, Newtown.
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
Strut with Mutts for Norwalk River Valley Trail The Norwalk River Valley Trail’s (NRVT) second annual Mutt Strut Challenge will be on May 18 from 9am to noon. The fun event for all ages includes bandanas and treats for the dogs, selfies, trophies, medals, prizes and more. You may participate individually, start a team or join an existing team. Teams who raise the most money will receive a trophy, and everyone who completes the 1-mile hike will be entered to win a grand prize. You will be strutting your mutts on the NRVT at these two starting locations: • Norwalk - The Lockwood-Mathews parking lot at the rear of the Pine Island Historic Cemetery. The Norwalk Mutt Strut will go from Lockwood-Mathews to the Maritime Aquarium and back—about 20 minutes each way. • Wilton - The commuter parking lot at Wolfpit Road and Route 7. The Wilton Mutt Strut will go from the commuter parking lot to Sharp Hill Road and back—about 30 minutes each way. The Norwalk River Valley Trail will be a 35-mile, multi-use trail that will run from Norwalk to Danbury. All proceeds from the Mutt Strut will go toward extending the trail to link the five towns of Norwalk, Wilton, Ridgefield, Redding and Danbury. Registration is $30 for families or per person. To register, visit MuttStrut.NRVT-Trail.com.
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natural pet
The Benefits of Reiki for Animals
Reduce Stress, Heal Trauma, Ease Transitions
R
by Kelly L. McCarthy
eiki itself as a healing modality has been used with people for over a century but the use of Reiki with animals has just recently become more prevalent. Some practitioners have been offering Reiki to their own animals over the years, but now we are starting to see practitioners special-
izing in animal Reiki as their desired profession. Because of its gentle nature, Reiki is a beneficial practice able to be used with all animals, no matter their size or species. Reiki in Japanese simply means “Spirit Energy”. It is an energetic healing technique that involves the transfer
Final Journey,
LLC
( Pet Euthanasia Service )
Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates
( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com
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eNaturalAwakenings.com
of “chi”, the energy life force within all things to help people, animals and even nature maintain inner balance. This noninvasive, pain-free technique is ideally practiced in a completely stress-free environment. Since animals are highly sensitive to energy, one cannot “give” an animal Reiki. For this reason, the “Let Animals Lead” approach was created by Kathleen Prasad, founder of The Animal Reiki Source. This approach allows animals to take part in their own treatments at their own pace, taking what they need as they need it, perhaps even for an issue the practitioner may not even be aware of. Reiki can be performed hands-on or from a distance. While some animals enjoy human touch during treatments, others prefer to be left to enjoy the energetic space from across the room. Reiki energy is limitless and knows no boundaries, so it is as effective overseas as it is in person. Depending on the issue, there are times where a distance session is a better option for both animal and practitioner. One example of this is when an animal has suffered a severe trauma or has aggressive tendencies. Reiki can help animals heal from past mental and physical traumas as well as reduce behavioral issues and aggression in animals. Reiki is also extremely supportive in the dying process of animals, allowing them to pass in peace while being held in love as they cross over. This also helps with the loss felt by their humans and can assist in the grieving process. Most importantly, Reiki is a complimentary practice for all other treatments—whether conventional or alternative. It should not be used in place of licensed veterinary care for any reason. Reiki practitioners are non-medical professionals and cannot at any time diagnose or prescribe anything for your pets. Practitioners may offer suggestions, however it is the responsibility of the pet owner to always seek the professional
advice and treatment from a licensed veterinarian when needed.
Reiki can be performed hands-on or from a distance. While some animals enjoy human touch during treatments, others prefer to be left to enjoy the energetic space from across the room. Lastly, if you are ready to invite Reiki into your animal’s life, do not be afraid to ask questions of the practitioner, as not every practitioner will be the right fit for you and your pet. There are different practicing styles of Reiki, just as there are different teaching styles. Some are derived from Japan, while others have found the western style of Reiki to better suit their personal beliefs. Much like an interview, it’s always good to know the practitioner’s lineage (who they trained
with), their daily self-practice, what Reiki means to them and any expectations you may have of your pets’ sessions, as well as policies, payments and length of treatment. Being able to have an open conversation prior to your animal’s treatment is the best way to create the energetic space you want and need between you, the practitioner and your pets, to feel safe and connected along your Reiki journey together.
Without the
oceans there would be no life on Earth. ~Peter Benchley
Kelly L. McCarthy is an animal Reiki practitioner, communicator and educator who travels throughout Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts, and offers distance Reiki from her home in Litchfield County. She is a foster mom for “For The Love of Lab Rescue” and volunteers her services to licensed rescues for animals awaiting their forever homes. Connect at KlarityKollars.com.
pet resource guide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com
BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727
COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org
DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297
FRIENDS OF FELINES INC
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
PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org
TAILS OF COURAGE
LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE
WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)
Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org
1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) • TailsOfCourage.org
1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org
VETERINARY SERVICES 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 low-cost 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 53.
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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calendar of events All Calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 1 Witch Crafting Wednesday: Self-Care Rituals and Crystal Essences – 6:30-8:30pm. Discuss self-care with crystals, rituals and energy healing. Learn crystal essences, how to create them at home and how to incorporate them into daily routines. $25. Twin Star Community Herb Shoppe, 65 Bank St, New Milford. TwinStarTribe.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 2 Releasing Tension in the Neck and Shoulders: Semi-Private Lesson – 6-7:30pm. Learn about the muscles of the neck and shoulders, address common problems in that region of the body and practice poses to stretch and release tension in those trouble spots. $46. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 3 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation and Relaxation – 7:30-8:30pm. With Allison. Yoga Nidra promotes deep rest and relaxation that isn’t found in your average meditation practice. The stages of body scan and breath awareness alone can be practiced to calm the nervous system, leading to less stress and better health. $30. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 4 Reiki Level 1 workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Free Yoga and Meditation for beginners – 10:3011:30am. With Alan. Learn how to create a state of peace and calm to help heal your body, mind and spirit. Focus on balance, breath, visualization, body energy and peace of mind. Free. Congregation B’nai Israel, 2710 Park Ave, Bridgeport. 203650-3722. Aldress118@gmail.com. CBIBPT.org. Woodbury Earth Day Presented by Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition – 11am-4pm. Familyfriendly event featuring live music, food trucks, an artisan market, a kids activities tent, as well as activities, exhibits and giveaways on household sustainability, environmental conservation, holistic wellness and so much more. Free. Hollow Park, 43 Hollow Park Rd, Woodbury. WoodburyEarthDay.org.
The Luminous Energy Field – 1:30-3:30pm. With Karen Pierce and teacher trainees. Qualifies for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credit. Discover how your energy body, aura and chakras are responsible for self-healing. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com. Sita’s Light Spring Chant with Miriam Zernis – 7:30-9pm. High vibration evening of kirtan (group chanting) with Sita’s Light. Through simple mantras and spirit-filled songs, Sita Miriam Zernis and her talented musician friends will guide you to a place of deep peace and joy. $20/advance; $25/at door. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 5 New Moon Prosperity Celebration – 7-8:30pm. A New Moon is always the start of the new cycle. Work various Naam breaths, meditation and mantra exercises that will create a shift in your vibration and raise your frequency. $25/advance; $30/day of. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 7 Fight Osteoporosis Naturally – 9am-10:30. Learn to fight Osteoporosis naturally with new cutting-edge technology. Includes presentation and free bone density scan. OsteoStrong, 25 Old Kings Highway North, Darien. 203-900-1662. eventbrite.com/e/fight-osteoporosis-naturallytickets-59549272477.
FRIDAY, MAY 10 Spiritfire Breathwork – 6-7:30pm. Spiritfire is a modality using breathing techniques to maximize oxygen intake and circulation. This practice releases physical, emotional and energetic blocks. $20. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.
Evening of Community Kirtan with Kristen Ambrosi Susan Deleonardo – 7-8:30pm. Join us for this special musical experience of singing our hearts open. This transformative call-and-response practice is joyful, healing and beautiful. No vocal experience or yoga mats needed. All welcome. $20. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter. com. JiivaCenter.com. Sound Bath Meditation – 7:30-9pm. Immerse yourself in beautiful sounds and vibrations that are healing for the body, mind and spirit. In a comfortable seated or supine position, hear melodic sounds and feel the vibrations of several different instruments. $35/by May 2; $45/thereafter. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@ WeAreYogaCulture.com. WeAreYogaCulture.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 11 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia – 10-11am. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia has recently been concluded a safe and effective means of managing chronic insomnia. The focus of this workshop is to learn about what this technique is all about. $15. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com. Family Yoga – 2-3pm. All-levels class includes postures for everyone. Explore standing poses, sun dances, partner poses, breathing and relaxation techniques and fun, interactive yoga games. This class is appropriate for children ages 4-12. Babysitters are welcome. $15/two family members; $5/each additional. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@WeAreYogaCulture.com. WeAreYogaCulture.com. Pet Portraits – 4-6pm. Create your own pet portrait masterpiece. Email a photo of your pet to MaryLinda.Allen@gmail.com and arrive to a prepped canvas and individual instruction. All materials provided. $50. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. NewMorn.com.
markyourcalendar
markyourcalendar
LYME CONNECTION’S 13TH ANNUAL PATIENT CONFERENCE & HEALTH FAIR
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT WORLD: THE DUALITY OF DARKNESS & LIGHT
Thursday, May 16 5-9pm Health Fair • 7-9:30pm Program
Sunday, May 19 • 1-4pm
Featuring Experts in patient care, research, tick control, testing and new product development. Free and open to the community. No registration required. Western Connecticut State University West Side Campus Student Center University Blvd, Danbury GPS: 41 Lake Ave Extension, Danbury LymeConnection.org
Spiritual beings from the realm of the Light, such as Angels, Ascended Masters, and Helping Spirits will be discussed, in addition to Spirit beings of the Darkness - such as Demons, and various types and levels of darker Spirits. This workshop will also cover the various roles of these beings and differences between them. Proper communication and protection techniques will be reviewed. Hunter Healing Hands, Bridgeport $75 with pre-registration by May 17th Space is limited. Register at HunterHealingHands.com May 2019
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calendar of events TUESDAY, MAY 14 Friend or Foe: Getting to Know Common Garden Pests – 6-7pm. Learn about which pests are attracted to what crop, how to identify them, and how to mitigate damage organically. Attendees receive a $5 coupon toward their next purchase. $5. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com. The Graduate Institute Information Session – 6:30-7:30pm. Enrolling now. Holistic, transformative education, one weekend per month. Master of Arts, certificates and sixth-year equivalent programs in Integrative Health and Healing, Learning and Thinking, Organizational Leadership, Consciousness Studies, Transpersonal Psychology, Writing and Oral Traditions, Ecotherapy and Coaching with Spirit. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Learn.edu.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 Guided Meditation and Sound Healing – 6:307:30pm. Experience an hour of guided meditation and sound healing aimed to help you release tension, sleep better and cultivate overall happiness. Beginners welcome. $15. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.
markyourcalendar ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS Saturday, May 4 and June 1 Spiritual/Psychic Fair • 11am-4pm • $35+ Saturday, May 4 Roland Comtois Purple Papers • 7-9pm • $45/$50 Sunday, May 5 Conversations with Roland Comtois 1-3pm • $25/$35 Thursday, May 9 White Light Healing Night Service 7-8pm • Love Donation Sunday, May 19 Addiction, Trauma and Freedom • 1-3pm • $25/$35 ONGOING EVENTS: Sundays Service • 11am-12:30pm Bereavement Group for Parents • 1-2pm Tuesdays Spiritual Philosophy & Mediumship Circle 7-9pm • Suggested donation $10 First and Third Thursdays Spiritual Mediumship Class – All Levels 7-9pm • Love donation or service Cancelled events will be posted on our website Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich 203-637-4615 • Info@AlbertsonChurch.org AlbertsonChurch.org 58
SATURDAY, MAY 25 A Feng Shui Garden with Medicinal Plants – 6:30-8:30pm. Learn to design a medicinal garden using an ancient Feng Shui Bagua Map. Students will learn which areas of the Bagua are associated with different body systems and which plants work best in each area. No experience necessary. $25. Twin Star Community Herb Shoppe, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@ gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 17 CBD Informational Talk – 6-7pm. Free informational talk about the uses of CBD oil hosted by the founders of Ropana. Attendees will also be able to take advantage of 15 percent off Ropana products during the event. Free. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203263-4868. NewMorn.com. What is the Solar Plexus Chakra? with Berta Prevosti – 7-9pm. Explore your 3rd chakra at the deepest level possible. With the synergy of asana, pranayama, lecture and mantra, you will be able explore the ego on levels not imagined. $30/by May 5; $40/thereafter. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@ JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 18 Mindful Sound Meditation Intro Class – 10-11am. Experience how sound and deep listening can help you unplug and connect to the present moment. Beginners are encouraged. Space is limited, please register. $20. Sono Healing Collective, 71 Water St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-8903. Suz@Wellness WisdomInspires.com. WellnessWisdomInspires.com. Full Moon Healing Ceremony – 7-8:30pm. The illumination of the Full Moon helps reveal aspects that hold you back from your true potential, while offering an opportunity to dissolve them and crack open your hidden potential and gifts. $25; $30/day of event. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 19 Art of Meditation (21-Day Challenge) – 5/196/9. 5:30-6:45pm. 4-week course. Introduction to meditation and its many facets, revealing hidden treasures along the way. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned practitioner, the classes will help you to rediscover your inner stillness and silence while building a deep understanding of the practice and its many values and benefits. $15/per class. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 24 Anatomy and Asana of the Spine – 7:30-9pm. Workshop will go in depth into spinal anatomy and how that facilitates spinal movement in each section of the spine. Gentle to deeper backbends involving stabilizing the pelvis and hips and learning how to move each individual vertebrae. $25/by May 16; $35/thereafter. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.
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Mushroom Hunt – 10am-3pm. A slide show will cover mushroom science and safety then head to the woods for a guided mushroom hunting adventure, returning for a cooking demonstration. Dress for walking in the woods. $35. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com. Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/Usa Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
markyourcalendar A YEAR OF HEALING IN 2020 With Dr. Eilis Philpott Soul Healing Journey, LLC We will meet one weekend a month for 12- months. We will meet once a month and spend Friday evening together and all day Saturday and Sunday. The 2020 dates are: January 10-12 • February 7-9 • March 13-15 April 3-5 • May 1-3 • June 12-14 • July 10-12 August 7-9 • September 11-13 • October 9-11 November 13-15 • December 11-13 I will share with you what I have learned from trainings, from life and from guidance in a way that integrates the various modalities. By this end of this 12 months training you will have catapulted your personal, professional and spiritual journey into the stratosphere. Location: TBD Investment: Early bird rate - Pay in full $4,200 or pay quarterly $1,050 or pay monthly $350 Regular rate - Pay in full $4,800 or pay quarterly $1,200 or pay monthly $400 Reviewer rate - Pay in full $3,000 or pay quarterly $750 or pay monthly $250 To Register: Choose an option to pay (full, quarterly or monthly) and make that first payment. Be prepared to commit to one full year of healing. NOTE: If you take advantage of the early bird rate and make the initial payment you will be locked into that rate for the year. Registration required. 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com AcademyforSoulHealing.com
Songwriters’ Series – 7:30-9pm. Evening of music featuring four local songwriters performing original music. Doors open at 7pm. Snacks will be available for purchase and donations for the performance are graciously accepted. Free. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 28 The Graduate Institute Information Session – 6:30-7:30pm. Enrolling now. Holistic, transformative education, one weekend per month. Master of Arts, certificates and sixth-year equivalent programs in Integrative Health and Healing, Learning and Thinking, Organizational Leadership, Consciousness Studies, Transpersonal Psychology, Writing and Oral Traditions, Ecotherapy and Coaching with Spirit. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Learn.edu.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 29 Plant Partner: Self-Heal – 6:30-8pm. Discover the plant ally Self-Heal. Opportunity for anyone who is brand new to the healing herbal world wanting to learn. Perfect for the budding herbalist to dive deeper in relationship with our herbal allies. $25. Twin Star Community Herb Shoppe, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@ gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 30 Happy For No Reason Workshop – 6:30-8pm. With Kathy Procario, Joyfilled Living LLC, Happy for No Reason Certified Trainer. Can you really
be Happy for No Reason? Learn the powerful process to raise your happiness level. Lounsbury House, 316 Main St, Ridgefield. 203-438-6962. LounsburyHouse.org
FRIDAY, MAY 31 Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/ Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 1 Demystifying the Bandhas – 1:30-3:30pm. With Karen Pierce and teacher trainees in the yoga studies workshop. Qualifies for Yoga Alliance continuing education credit. Learn the proper use of the powerful yogic locks Mula, Uddiyana and Jalandhara Bandha. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT. com. Yogaspace-CT.com. GuruGanesha Band Concert – 7-9pm. GuruGanesha Band embodies an entirely new music landscape, combining the energy and influence of classic rock and roll with the joy of ecstatic chant. Tickets available at BrightStarEvents.com/event/ ggb-woodbury. $35/advance; $50/at the door. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. NewMorn.com.
More Than Just A Mouth Wash
Good health begins in the mouth. Bleeding Gums? Painful Teeth? Sore Throat? When your mouth needs help, get Oral & Dental Therapy. With prolonged swishing, it penetrates oral biofilms to kill difficult bacteria. Stop gingivitis, bad breath, and sore throat caused by strep.
USE COUPON CODE ODT30 FOR 30% OFF EACH BOTTLE.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 Sustainable and Local Sacred Smudge Bundles – 6:30-8:30pm. Join us for an evening of herbal smudge bundle crafting. Aromatic and healing herbs have long been burned for clearing, ceremonial and healing. Learn foraging, sustainability and history of smudging. Each participant will craft their own herbal smudge bundle. $25. Twin Star Community Herb Shoppe, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@gmail. com. TwinStarTribe.com.
markyourcalendar EMPOWER YOUR HUMANNESS UNSHAME YOUR LIFE June 21-23 • Weekend Workshop Presented by: Caryn Scotto d' Luzia Inhibition, Shame & Embodiment Expert. Fun, powerful and highly transformative immersion experience! Omega Institute Campus Rhinebeck, NY Register early for best housing options. EmpoweredSelfRelating.com/Workshop
SIBO? Leaky Gut? IBS?
To begin a healthy transformation, you must first fix the gut. You eat well, but can you absorb the nutrition? Probiotics are only a part of the solution to a damaged or imbalanced gut.
With the Digestive Rehabilitation Kit: • Kill bad bacteria and fungus • Re-seed with beneficial bacteria • Restore a healthy intestinal lining
USE COUPON CODE DRK20 FOR 20% OFF DIGESTIVE REHAB KIT
Order online at MyNaturesRite.com or call 800-991-7088. May 2019
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ongoing events
sunday Tal Fusion: Sunday Sweat – 9:15-10am. With Tal Fagin. Get your heart pumping and blood flowing with this eclectic, spirited, high energy class. Class is 50 minutes in length, so get ready to get in high gear. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-5210359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are wonderful spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Satsangs with Shanti Mission Healers are filled with music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. 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. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. 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.
markyourcalendar LIBERATION PRISON YOGA TRAINING Saturday, June 8 • 1:30-7:30pm Sunday, June 9 - 11am-5pm Preliminary step to be recognized as a LPY teacher. Learn effective yogic tools to work with traumaaffected and justice-involved populations. Using discussion, trauma-informed yoga practices, and mindfulness exercises in the LPY method, we focus on non-judgmental acceptance rather than on accountability and changing behavior. Option 1: $375 with 17 Yoga Alliance CEU’s Option 2: $350 for all others Yogaspace 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel Register online at Yogaspace-CT.com 203-730-9642 60
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-12pm. 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 Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
monday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail. com. SoulSynergy.org.
Sunday Morning Meditation – 11-11:45am. Experience stillness and peace, establish a regular practice, reduce stress and tension, and enhance health and well-being. Meditation class for beginners and experienced meditators. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.
Yoga All Levels – 10-11am. With Caroline. Class given according to whatever level of student happens to show up. All levels welcome. The class is hatha flow based with elements of relaxation, meditation, breath work, strength and flow. $18/ class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com.
Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.
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.
Monthly Mystical Market – 11am-4pm. Third Sunday. Psychics, mediums, intuitives, CT artisans, vendors and holistic practitioners. Free admission, vendors prices vary. The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@ TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com.
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.
Meditation Class with Stephanie – 12-1pm. Experience the power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Classes include instruction and meditation practice. Join us for our other meditation classes, Tuesdays at 7:15pm and Saturdays at 9am. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Lorrie D. Therapeutic Massage, Pain Relief and Relaxation – 12-5pm. With Lorrie D. Lori specializes in therapeutic massage, pain relief and relaxation. Advanced appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome. $75. Black Cat Mystical Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-941-9408. BlackCat@aol.com. Karma Community Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Fourth Sunday. Our monthly donation-based class. Bring a non-perishable food donation, and enjoy an hour for your mind, body and spirit. The Ruby Tree, Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com. Art of Meditation (21-Day Challenge) – 5/196/9. 5:30-6:45pm. 4-week course. Introduction to meditation and its many facets, revealing hidden treasures along the way. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned practitioner, the classes will help you to rediscover your inner stillness and silence while building a deep understanding of the practice and its many values and benefits. $15/per class. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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tuesday Slow Yoga – 10-11am. With Lella Ilyinsky.Class is set to a slower pace, and may include elements of restorative yoga, yin yoga and foundational flow sequences. Beginners welcome. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. 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. Kids Yoga-Art – 1:30-2:30pm. Kids will explore basic yoga poses and breathing techniques. After movement, kids will work their imaginations exploring colors, textures and techniques to create a fun and unique art project each week. $15. New Morning Market and Vitality Center, 129 Main St N, Woodbury. NewMorn.com.
Monthly Information Sessions at The Graduate Institute – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for an info session every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Graduate Institute. Please contact us to let us know that you’ll be attending. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. New NAMI Support Group – 6:30-7:45pm. Third Tuesday. NAMI Support Groups offer a place where families and friends of individuals living with mental health challenges can come together in a safe and compassionate forum. Meetings are confidential. Free. Rowayton United Methodist Church, 5 Pennoyer St, Norwalk. 203428-6864. ClaudiaDevita1123@gmail.com. NAMISouthwestCT.org. Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki Level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Spiritual Philosophy and Self Unfoldment – 7-9pm. Through a process of structured meditations on potent spiritual phrases, students will be exposed to the internal spiritual development of Jacob’s Ladder. $10/suggested donation. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.
wednesday Mat Pilates – 9-10am. With Suzette Caldwell. Classic mat Pilates work out, vigorous class but open to all levels. You set the challenge bar for your workout. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Power Yoga/Vinyasa – 11am-12pm. Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitnessbased approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Power yoga incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas. $20. Soul Synergy Wellness, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Power Yoga/Vinyasa – 5:30-6:30pm. Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitnessbased approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Power yoga incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas. $20. Soul Synergy Wellness, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Tai Chi Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in; $85/1 class per week; $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 1197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690.
Meditation Class with Berta – 7:15-8:30pm. Experience the incredible power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Each session includes instruction and meditation practice. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-3457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.
Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.
Reiki Healing Shares – 7:30-9:30pm. First and third Tuesdays. With Gigi Benanti, Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Includes short instruction and discussion. Must RSVP. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.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. Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Meditation that often includes chanting, music and requires your active participation. All faiths and cultures are welcomed. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Heart Speak – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. Your Inner Voice A GEM is a two-minute audio which inspires and uplifts—a part of you that speaks inspiration, wisdom and happiness. Find your inner voice, crystallize it into a very short audio and then share it on the internet. Free. Contact@HeartSpeak.life. HeartSpeak.life.
markyourcalendar AYURVEDIC CERTIFICATION COURSE
for a Certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor (CAHC) Certified by NAMA (National Ayurvedic Medical Association) offered by The Institute for the Advancement of Ayurvedic Sciences Starting October 2019 Application Deadline August 30 For information, contact: Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic & Naturopathic Clinic 792 Route 35, Cross River, NY 914-875-9088 • 646-670-6725 DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com
markyourcalendar SPIRIT FESTIVAL September 13-15 Experience a celebration of wellness, yoga, music and dance – in affiliation with Riverfront Recapture and BaliSpirit Festival. Riverside Park & Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, Hartford SpiritYogaFestival.com
markyourcalendar BE PART OF THE CHANGE: A MORNING ADVENTURE AT THE FARM Saturday, May 25 • 10am-12pm Learn what a day at The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition is like as we take you through a mini session at the farm. We will make a delicious tea to sip, go on a weed walk to learn some of our local weeds and super foods, make something in kitchen medicine, see what is happening with the bees and in the garden and taste something delicious from the kitchen. Our new class begins in September, come be part of the change! Holcomb Farm 113 Simsbury Rd • West Granby Free
You will never win if you never begin. ~Helen Rowland
RSVP at 860-764-9070 or email Joan@TIOSN.com May 2019
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ongoing events Reiki Share – 7-9pm. With Nancy. Reiki Share is a wonderful opportunity to give and receive Reiki in a casual atmosphere of friendship, honor, positive energy and devotion. We welcome Reiki practitioners of any level. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. 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 education 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 Kundalini Yoga and Music Meditation – 9:3010:30am. With Leesa Sklover, PhD, C-IAYT, Certified Yoga Therapist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher. Experience the yoga of awareness weekly to heal your mind and your life. All welcome. Register for first class. $15 per class/monthly discount. Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com. LoveLifeProductions.net. Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. 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. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. First Thursday. All welcome. Share and experience Reiki. Please join us while we enjoy a peaceful, powerful night of healing. Hosted by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
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friday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. 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. Discussion with The Higher Realms – 7-9:30pm. Last Friday. Bring your heartfelt questions and receive the wisdom of The Ascended Masters and The Divine Feminine specifically for you as channeled by Ginny Brown. $45. Address provided upon registration. HeartAndHealing@hotmail.com. GinnyBrown.net.
saturday
Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-3457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. 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, 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. Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. First Saturday. Would you like a second opinion on your life issues, or a personal message from a departed loved one? Are you curious about your purpose in this life, or seeking a bit more direction and focus? Come join us. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Open Mic Night – 7-9pm, 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 Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
Find Your Edge Yoga – 9-10am. With Pauline Koinis. For yoga practitioners. A chance for yoginis and yogis alike to get a Saturday morning groove on; where laughter, challenge and heart all meet on the mat. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Meditation Class with Elizabeth – 9-10:15am. Experience the power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Classes include instruction and meditation practice. Join us for our other meditation classes, Tuesdays at 7:15pm and Mondays at 12pm. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC. Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.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. Reiki Share – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Elizabeth. Reiki Share is a wonderful opportunity to give and receive Reiki in a casual atmosphere of friendship, honor, positive energy and devotion. We welcome Reiki practitioners of any level. $10. The Jiiva
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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.
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? Help us spread the word! We’re looking for Community Street Team Members to work with us at upcoming events all over CT. Please send an email (subject line: COMMUNITY) and resume to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.
community resource guide
CHINESE MEDICINE
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our media kit.
13TH OCTAVE/LAHOCHI EVERYDAY ALCHEMY LLC Nicole Miale, MA, Certified Habit Change Coach New Milford 860-799-5076 NMiale@charter.net
Alchemy is the transformation of base metal into gold. A process that defies logic, it seems magical. This kind of wonder is accessible to each of us in our daily lives! Using a variety of non-invasive approaches and techniques customized to each client, I facilitate the alchemical process within each person. Rediscover the magic in yourself and experience your golden life!
SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com
Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She is one of only two people approved to teach 13th Octave/LaHoChi in the United States. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 43.
ACUPUNCTURE JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com
Compassionate professional care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more. See ad, page 49.
ACUBLEND PLLC
Dr. Sian James, DAc, LAc, LMT, RYT Offices in Fairfield County 203-987-6585 • AcuBlend.com AcuBlend will serve your healthcare needs by blending the art and science of wellness, offering acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, Gua Sha, Tui Na, massage therapy, movement therapies, herbal medicine and much more. See ad, page 25.
AYURVEDA NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com AyurvedicInstituteCT.com
A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 41.
BIOFEEDBACK ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC
898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 33.
BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC
Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 37.
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.
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.
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com
Vincent offers paths to wholeness which lead to resolving pain and trauma, ease of movement in one’s body and life, and a fuller conscious embodiment.
May 2019
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EDUCATION THE GRADUATE INSTITUTE 171 Amity Rd, Bethany 203-874-4252 Info@Learn.edu • Learn.edu
The Graduate Institute is a state-accredited graduate school dedicated to promoting an integrative and holistic worldview through the study of health, wellness, education, and personal and professional transformation. Enrolling now for 2019 programs. See ad, page 5.
INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES
Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair.
THE INSTITUTE OF SUSTAINABLE NUTRITION 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby 860-764-9070 Joan@TIOSN.com • TIOSN.com
We offer a unique certification program blending the science of nutrition with the hands-on components of sustainable gardening practices. We use food and herbs to make kitchen medicine, teach basic culinary skills, and practice foraging for and using nutrient-rich wild food. Now enrolling for fall 2019. See ad, page 15.
ENERGY HEALING BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot 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 7.
JOY REIKI INSTITUTE
Sarah Chapman, Reki Master 3 Sterling Dr, Westport 415-912-6863 JoyReiki-Institute.com Sarah offers private Reiki sessions reflecting the lineage of Dr Usui. Each session helps increase your vitality and balance the different areas of your body to restore the quality of your health (Emotional and physical), promoting transformation and growth. Sarah also offers monthly training workshop in Reiki 1 and 2 as well as Reiki distance packages. Please consult website for more info. Or text/call Sarah directly to book your first experience.
SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com
Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 43.
TWO COYOTES WILDERNESS SCHOOL
SOUL LIGHT HEALING
Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a non-profit nature organization dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected future by connecting people to nature, community, and their personal empowerment. We offer year-round wildernessbased mentorship programs, including summer camps, for all ages.
Judy is a Usui Reiki Master for over 40 years, and certified in numerous modalities. Judy does distance healing using 13th Octave LaHoChi transformational healing energy to re-balance your body, mind, and spirit. Judy also does intuitive readings, and spiritual Solar Returns, which are done on your birthday. She also does individual, home, business, property, and ancestral clearings.
P.O. Box 711, Monroe TwoCoyotes.org Facebook.com/TwoCoyotes Instagram.com/TwoCoyotes
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Judy Gomez Integrated Healings & Intuitive Readings Bridgeport 203-366-1712 Judy@SoulLightHealing8.com
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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FREQUENCY SPECIFIC MICROCURRENT SARAH ROTELLA
Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional location in Greenwich 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com • SenLightenment.com Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) uses a low-level current to reduce inflammation and scar tissue formation, as well as regenerate injured tissue. The frequencies target specific tissues and issues. Anyone who has experienced accidents, traumas, injuries or athletic strains can benefit.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE TAMARA SACHS, MD
Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 • TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, autoimmune problems, toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive Personalized Wellness Plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE/ NUTRITION MARY GILBERTSON WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Purdy Hill Rd, Ste 2, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.co
Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living. Working one-on-one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management
HEALING ACID REFLUX HEALING ACID REFLUX NATURALLY Susan Berman, Med, CHHC 860-670-4152 Susan@HealingAcidReflux.com HealingAcidReflux.com
I work with health conscious individuals to help heal their acid reflux or GERD to avoid further damage and prevent esophageal cancer. Find your unique food and lifestyle triggers. I work with groups or 1:1 through a virtual classroom so you can be anywhere to take the program.
HEALING CENTER HAUTE HEALING OASIS
792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 • Info@HauteSauna.com HauteHealingOasis.com Haute is Fairfield County’s premier holistic wellness spa. Featuring luxurious, private, infrared sauna spa rooms; BEMER sessions; elite massage services; CBD and essential oils; and other holistic, safe, non-invasive healing modalities. Come and experience the Haute difference in wellness today. See ad, page 32.
THE RUBY TREE
Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1655 • TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more. Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/ mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 10.
HEALTHY EATING CHEF ELIANA GRUBEL, CHC
Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services 203-559-8946 • CleanFood4UrType.com As a Board-Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and member of the United States Personal Chef Association, Eliana’s passion is her clients’ success. She has been serving CT for over 15 years, and is now offering new services including short-term detoxes, meals to freeze, dinner parties, cooking classes, personalized coaching programs and seminars. See ad, page 13.
HOLISTIC DENTIST DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND Yorktown Heights, NY 914-214-9678 HolisticDentist.com
We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our website to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 18.
WHOLE BODY DENTISTRY
Mark A Breiner, DDS 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Mark Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. His patients have found solutions to baffling, unresolved and seemingly unrelated dentalrelated health problems. He is the author of the award-winning book, Whole-Body Dentistry. See ad, page 2.
HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY DAVID LONDON, MD
544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-557-6574 Contact@DavidLondonMD.com DavidLondonMD.com David London, MD, honors emotional, spiritual and biochemical individuality to assist healing psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Sophisticated genetic and lab testing help identify underlying causes. Treatment may include acupuncture, psychotherapy, EMDR, herbs, vitamins, nutrients, lifestyle changes, medication. See ad, page 41.
HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM
Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and 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.
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 ads, pages 39 and 46.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD
Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 31.
INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 INM.Center
Using naturopathic axnd 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.
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INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN David Johnston, DO Elena Sokolova, MD, ND 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com
Using state-of-the-art science combined with holistic medicine, our caring integrative physicians correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. We treat many conditions including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, immune disorders, allergies, thyroid conditions, pain, neurological conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ ADHD, depression, insomnia and more. We offer hyperbaric oxygen, neurofeedback and neurotherapies, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine, IV nutrient and chelation therapy, energetic medicine, homeopathy, Japanese Reiki, nutrition, colonics and detoxification, enhanced brain, athletic, scholastic performance, and more. See ad, page 2.
INSPIRATIONAL BOUTIQUE THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE
Purveyors of Positivity 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Route 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com A unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first Shungite room in the U.S., The Angel Cooperative has products and experiences designed to care for your body and soul while also offering beautiful and healing goods for the home. We offer a regular schedule of workshops, meditations, classes, and other holistic and spiritual events. See ad, page 35.
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INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC
Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 13.
LYME DISEASE EDUCATION/SUPPORT LYME CONNECTION
400 Main St, Ridgefield Info@LymeConnection.org LymeConnection.org Lyme Connection is an all-volunteer, communitybased task force providing support and resources to patients and their families coping with tickborne disease. See ad, page 9.
MASSAGE AND BODYWORK IV THERAPY WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC
501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com IV nutrient therapy bypasses the digestive process and delivers 100% of pure quality nutrients to your cells. Custom drips support your immune system, help you recover from long work hours, hangovers, jet lag, and increase stamina, support muscle recovery and growth, aid in detoxification, provide anti-aging benefits for youthful skin and glow, promote weight loss, help brain function, provide an energy boost and more. See ad, page 2.
LIFE COACH CHRISTINE MOFFATT
Energy Space Wellness and Divorce Coaching Services Westchester and Greenwich 203-625-8461 Christine@EnergySpace.life EnergySpace.life We offer wellness and divorce coaching as well as energy work, and group sessions for clients looking for social support and connections in addition to private coaching. I am also a Reiki Master and often incorporate the practice when clients are looking for help managing stress. See ad, page 16.
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
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 28.
ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 RobinOrdanLMT.com
Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, pregnancy, trigger point, injuries and infant/child massage instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 25.
VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS CENTER 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com
Pauline Koinis, Byron Eddy, Sean Flanagan, Inga Natoli, Domanie Guerrera offer massage therapies, energy healing and organic facials in our three thoughtfully appointed treatment rooms. See ad, page 49.
Aleo – Bold CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79
MEDITATION CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org
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.
JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC
Certified Teacher Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Tibetan Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 49.
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN ADAM BREINER, ND
Whole-Body Medicine LLC 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Dr. Adam Breiner has helped patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions—including stroke, concussions, TBIs, ADD/ADHD, depression and anxiety—as well as seeing patients for enhanced sports, scholastic and workplace performance. His center was the first facility in the country to offer the powerful combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neurofeedback. Dr. Breiner also has natural and cutting-edge approaches for the treatment of Lyme disease. See ad, page 2.
NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com
A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 41.
SHALVA CLINIC LLC
Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.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, back cover.
NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
NEUROFEEDBACK
P R O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79
ADAM BREINER, ND
The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Division of Whole-Body Medicine Full ColorHighway E, Ste 108, Fairfield One Color 501 Kings 203-371-8258 TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas such as concussion and stroke as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.
ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC
898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, EFT, hypnosis, meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 33.
ORGANIC SALON
Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com
ECO CHIC SALON SPA & BLOW DRY BAR
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 38.
Eco Chic Salon Spa & Blow Dry Bar is committed to the healthy way of life so many people strive for each and every day. Mindful stylists are dedicated to the use of environmentally friendly products, including Eco Chic branded products, and alternative hair services with less toxic variations from the typical salon experience. Be well. Be beautiful. See ad, page 11.
MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND
Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com 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 27.
16 Center St, Wilton 203-966-5655 • EcoChicSalonCT.com
OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO
158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 • OsteopathicWellness.net 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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PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT DR. LORI MONACO
Inspire and Empower, LLC 203-395-9832 • DrLoriMonaco@gmail.com DrLoriMonaco.com Lori is a Transformational Speaker, Coach and Wholistic practitioner helping people become the best version of themselves. She uses mindfulness techniques including the HeartMath protocol for creating heart coherence and improved resilience. She offers one-on-one and group coaching sessions, lectures and workshops, and Laughter Yoga sessions. She works with children to adults.
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PSYCHOTHERAPY
ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC
898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brain-based tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 33.
ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW
Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com
REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 AngelHealReiki.com
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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714 Main St South, Woodbury 203-263-7836 PutItTogetherLLC.com PutItTogetherLLC@cs.com Incorporating environmentally sound options into a traditional interior design business, I can show you great options for low to no VOC exposure in your homes. Offering interior design, feng shui and environmental consultations. See ad, page 25.
2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford THERMOGRAPHY offers safe, FDA approved full body 203-345-7747 or breast screening. JiivaCenter.com
WHOLE HEALTH
Non isInvasive Berta Prevosti a Usui and • No Radiation THERMOGRAPHY LLC Karuna Reiki Master and has earlier breast • Possible 8 years Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT been practicing Reiki for over 20 Locations throughout Fairfield County, cancer detecti on vs mammogram years. We also have several expeSouthbury, New Haven, Milford and New York rienced•Reiki Masters and for detecting and Clinical imaging 203-257-3785 practitioners. We offer a private monitoring number of diseases WHThermography@gmail.com Reiki sessions for physical and injuries. and physical WholeHealthThermography.com emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Digital Infrared Thermal classes that are taught in the traditional Usui Rachel Mazzarelli Imaging (DITI) is an FDAmethod by Berta. See ad, page 28.��,��� approved, noninvasive, 203-257-3785 no-radiation screening for the TURNING POINT REIKI LLC whole body. It offers possible Offices throughout JoAnn Inserra Duncan, RMT Southbury, earlier detection of breast FairfiMS, eld County, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, disease and can aid in diagnosis NewRidgefield Haven, Milford, 203-438-3050 and improved prognosis of many health and New York TurningPointReiki.com conditions and injuries. See ad, page 10. TurningPointShare.comwhthermography@gmail.com
JoAnnwww.wholehealththermography.com uses intuition, experiTRANSFORMATIVE ence and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET HEALING and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for EVERYDAY ALCHEMY LLC individuals with cancer, Lyme Nicole Miale, MA, disease and back pain. All Reiki Certified Habit Change Coach levels taught.
TAI CHI/QIGONG
NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW
Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover 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 of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 16.
PUT IT TOGETHER, LLC
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI)
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 23.
Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 • WellnessMetaphors.com
TRADITIONAL/HOLISTIC/ GREEN INTERIOR DESIGN
JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness Center 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 these ancient Chinese movement 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 49.
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
eNaturalAwakenings.com
New Milford 860-799-5076 NMiale@charter.net
Alchemy is the transformation of base metal into gold. A process that defies logic, it seems magical. This kind of wonder is accessible to each of us in our daily lives! Using a variety of non-invasive approaches and techniques customized to each client, I facilitate the alchemical process within each person. Rediscover the magic in yourself and experience your golden life!
BETH LEAS
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER
Transformative Healing • Tarot 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 7.
SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com
Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 28.
SALTANA CAVE HIMALAYAN SALT SPA 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com
Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul-level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 43.
WELLNESS CENTER
Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, page 69.
SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA
787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com
HAUTE HEALING OASIS 792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 Info@HauteSauna.com HauteHealingOasis.com
Haute Healing Oasis is Fairfield County’s premiere wellness spa. Featuring luxurious, private infrared sauna spa rooms, Young Living aromatherapy, chromo light therapy, BEMER physical vascular therapy, elite massage services as well as other holistic, safe, noninvasive healing modalities. Come and experience the HAUTE difference in health and wellness today. See ad, page 32.
Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 39.
VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS CENTER 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com
We offer a unique blend of integrative medicine, classes and self-care options. Therapies include Chinese and Japanesestyle acupuncture, Chinese herbal and Ayurvedic medicine, Asian bodywork, massage and intuitive healing. Classes include meditation, tai chi, yoga, qigong, mat Pilates, Barre, hand drumming, ballroom dance and more. Jampa Stewart, LAc, and Pauline Koinis, LMT, head our team of experienced therapists and teachers. See ad, page 49.
YOGA PAULINE KOINIS, LELA ILYINSKY Certified Teachers Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com
Come and enjoy our lovely studio and choose from an array of well instructed and thoughtful classes to nurture mind, body and spirit through posture, breath and contemplative training. Head yoga teacher Pauline Koinis is joined by teachers Lela Ilyinsky, Theresa Bates, Julie Hollander and Abby Sutton. Whether new to yoga or advanced, our teachers will accommodate you where you are in your personal practice. See ad, page 49.
Colors are the smiles of nature. ~Leigh Hunt
May 2019
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inspiration
display ad index 203TLC 7 3 Treasures Healing
The Mother Our Souls Need Connecting With the Energy That Made Us
T
by Christiane Northrup
his Mother’s Day, I want to tell you about a different way to think about your mother and about yourself—a way that is deeply true and liberating, no matter what is going on with your mother. On a soul level, we’re old friends with our mothers. And they signed up for assisting us on our souls’ journeys big time— by being willing to take on the role of our mother. And no matter how well they did or didn’t do that job, we have a job, too: to realize that though we might not have had the mother we wanted, we all got the mother our souls needed. What’s more, every single one of us can connect right now with the mother energy that made all of our bodies in the first place—the Earth herself. It has been said that when you lavish your attention on the Earth—on a flower, or a stream or any aspect of nature—that energy loves you right back. In the book series The Ringing Cedars, Anastasia refers to the land you live on and love as, “Love dissolved in space.” You can feel this when you travel to parks and gardens, farms and yards that have been loved by those who live there. This mothering energy is available to each of us from the Earth and from Mother Nature— no matter what has happened with your biological mother. So here is my prescription for a glorious Mother’s Day. Call your mother—in spirit, if she is no longer in a body—or if speaking with her directly is too painful. Here’s a special prayer: “With my Spirit, I send Divine Love to my mother’s Spirit.” That’s it. Just say this prayer. With your whole heart. And let go of the outcome. Happy Mother’s Day. Christiane Northrup, M.D., is a leading authority in the field of women’s health and wellness. The full text of this excerpt, reprinted with permission, appears at DrNorthrup.com. © Christiane Northrup, Inc. All rights reserved.
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The Angel Cooperative
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Natural Health & Wellness Center
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CT Wellness
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Philip Stein Sleep Bracelet
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Possibilities Farm
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Energy Space
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Put It Together
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Eyecare Associates
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Ann Reeves
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EcoChic Salon Spa & Blowdry Bar
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Haute Healing Oasis
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HempWorx 23 Hilda Demirjian Laser Center
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Holistic Chamber of Commerce 47
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Saltana Cave
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Salt Cave of Darien
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Salt of the Earth Spa
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Tom Scally/The Bridge
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Nancy Scherlong, LCSW
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Shalva Clinic
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Holistic Psychotherapy
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Hunter Healing Hands
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Victoria Shaw, PhD
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Solair Recreation League
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Soul Healing Journey/ Academy for Soul Healing
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Soul Synergy Wellness
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Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies
The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 15 Intuitive Apitherapy
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Spirit Festival
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Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 28
Sustainne 20
David L. Lerner, DDS/ Center for Holistic Dentistry
The Tapping Practice
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David London, MD
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Total U Health & Wellness Center
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Touch of Sedona
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Lyme Connection The Market
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Are you creative, driven and passionate about healthy living? Inspire others to make choices that benefit themselves and the world around them by owning a Natural Awakenings franchise. Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years. This is a meaningful home-based business opportunity that provides training and ongoing support. No previous publishing experience is required.
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NATUROPATHIC SERVICES NATUROPATHIC PRIMARY CARE SICK DAY VISITS LAB & DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES
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DR. ELLEN LEWIS: THYROID DISORDERS, ABNORMAL PAPS, WOMEN’S HEALTH DR. NADIA NOORI: FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY, ADD/ADHD, AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS CINDY WECHSLER, APRN: INTEGRATIVE PEDIATRICS, LACTATION SUPPORT, INFANT MASSAGE EACH PRACTITIONER TREATS THE WHOLE FAMILY INCLUDING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, WEIGHT ISSUES, HEADACHES, FATIGUE, SLEEP DISTURBANCES, DIGESTIVE DISORDERS, COLDS/FLUS, ANXIETY/DEPRESSION, ALLERGIES, PEDIATRICS, AND MORE
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