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Harbor Harvest Innovates Food Delivery Meaty Truths Garden Out of the Box Locavore Lingo
Natural Summer Beauty
Fixes for Common Hot Weather Woes
Just Chill Out! Make Time for Downtime
Ditch the Hotel Budget-friendly Travel
July 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center
Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.” Mark A. Breiner, DDS
Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®
Mercury-free for over 30 years, Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.
WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Caring Naturopathic Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing
Our integrative approach treats a widerange of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia
Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders Lyme Disease RSD Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain
Learn more about our approach. Watch our new therapy videos – all on our website!
We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:
From left to right:
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, Director Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND & Dr. David M. Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) EEG Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine Electrodermal Screening Metabolic Typing
WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258
Functional Medicine Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Herbal Medicine Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization FDA-cleared Phototherapy Detoxification Abdominal Manual Therapy
FREE CDs on our Whole-Body approach to Lyme Disease. Call now for details.
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
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Whole-Body Medicine, LLC – The Natural Approach for Optimal Health Fairfield County Edition
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contents
Clinics
Clinics Clinics
Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
Your Partners in Health and Wellness. Your Partners in
18 HARBOR HARVEST
Health and in Wellness. EXPLORES DISRUPTIVE Your Partners Health and Wellness.
The UB Clinics, located on the campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed by some of the brightest and most talented healthcare professionals of the future. Open to The UBthe Clinics, located on theaffordable, campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed the public, UB Clinics offer high quality care at a fraction of theby cost of some of and most talented professionals of thearefuture. to Thethe UBbrightest Clinics, located on the campushealthcare of the University of Bridgeport, staffedOpen by comparable treatments elsewhere. some of brightest mostaffordable, talented healthcare professionals future. of Open the public, thetheUB Clinicsand offer high quality care atofathe fraction thetocost of the public, the UB Clinics offer affordable, high quality care at a fraction of the cost of comparable treatments elsewhere.
comparableMedicine treatments elsewhere. Naturopathic • Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture
Naturopathic Medicine • Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture
Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture Call today Naturopathic to find outMedicine how you• can receive state-of-the-art, patient-centered care at NewCall England’s growing university. today tofastest find out how you state-of-the-art, patient-centered care at Call today to find out how youcan canreceive receive state-of-the-art, patient-centered care at New England’s fastest growinguniversity. university. New England’s fastest growing
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SUSTAINABILITY
Innovative Shipbuilding Delivers Local Food
by Ariana Rawls Fine
20 MEATY TRUTHS Choosing Meat That’s Sustainable and Safe
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by Melinda Hemmelgarn
24 LAND MANAGER
ALLAN SAVORY ON HOLISTIC PASTURING
How Cows Can Help
Reverse Climate Change by Linda Sechrist
28 HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
28
Moves Out of the Box
44
Area Food Production by Ariana Rawls Fine
32 NATURAL
SUMMER BEAUTY Fixes for Common Hot Weather Woes
by Angela Pascopella
36 NATURAL BEAUTY
PRACTITIONER PROFILES
44 DITCH THE HOTEL
Frugal Lodging Options from Airbnb to House Swapping
by Avery Mack
46 MAKE TIME
FOR DOWNTIME Chilling Out Revives Body and Soul by April Thompson
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Fairfield County Edition
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7 newsbriefs 14 14 healthbriefs 16 globalbriefs 18 communityspotlight 19 inspiration 27 healthykids 28 productmarketplace 30 masteringyoga 40 naturallyhealthypet 43 petresourceguide 16 44 greenliving 48 inspiredtable 5 1 consciouseating 52 calendar 56 classifieds 57 resourceguide 27 62 displayadindex
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
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Natural Health & WELLNESS CENTER
Individualized Treatment Plans for Acute and Chronic Conditions Osteoarthritis & Joint Disorders • Back Problems Cholesterol Problems • Anxiety & Depression Fatigue, Insomnia & Weight Gain • Diabetes High Blood Pressure • Headaches & Migraine Upper Respiratory Conditions
LISA SINGLEY, N.D. Naturopathic Physician 203.874.4333
We accept most health insurance plans including Husky Health Connecticut
Schedule a consultation and receive 20% off all recommended supplements
NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER 203.874.4333 2013 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615 • www.nhawc.com
revitalize replenish rejuvenate
O u r G o a l i s Yo u r We l l b e i n g
We offer comprehensive and varied facial rejuvenation packages with and without acupuncture. cutting edge technology for skin tightening botanical skin care | laser hair removal micro-dermabrasion | cellulite treatments massage & lymphatic drainage | eyebrow design
Call for a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our skin care experts. 203-502-8503
4154 Madison Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611 www.ctnaturalbeauty.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Jessica Moon, Mary Oquendo and Angela Pascopella Sales & Marketing Alix Bacher Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale Distribution Man in Motion LLC
Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
n July we celebrate Independence Day, which seems a good time to reflect on what independence really means and how it relates to living our best lives as healthy, empowered individuals. The way I see it, independence is the freedom to be who you want and a freedom from that which does not serve you. This includes freedom from unwanted control or influence, whether obvious or subtle. Freedom of thought, freedom of belief and freedom of expression are manifestations of independence. It is the freedom to make your own decisions about your health and the health of your family. To this I would also add freedom to choose what you put in your own body. In America, we are free to do Nicole Miale many things, but I believe the most important freedom we have is to choose what we think. We are free to do our own research, to ask questions, to find what works for us, to discover our own truth. Given the extraordinary times we’re living in and what is at stake for the future of our planet if humans don’t clean up their act, this freedom may never be more important or have larger implications. Food integrity is an assurance from experts that the food supply given to us is safe, authentic and of high quality. There is mounting evidence that, in fact, much of our mass-produced food may be lacking in integrity. Efforts are underway across the county to address this at a corporate and national level, but articles in this edition feature a plethora of inspiring pieces about local individuals and organizations who are creating a more nutritious, fresh and sustainable local food culture for us all. These articles also provide ideas for being more self-reliant in generating your own food supply if that is something that interests you. We tackle the controversial topic of meat consumption for our readers who want to eat meat as safely and sustainably as possible. We also offer some guidance for understanding the increasingly confusing world of food labeling, so you can be more confident that the choices you make are the ones you intended. To counterbalance the heft of these topics, we had an in-depth discussion with many beauty experts in the area about natural ways to deal with common issues that crop up in the summertime, along with practitioner profiles about their work. We also have inspirational pieces about how to carve more time for yourself and how to travel more frugally this summer…both topics that definitely resonated with me as we work on unpacking belongings into a new house and prepare to send a child off to college! We hope to see you at some of the great July events listed in our news briefs, ads and calendars. Enjoy the hazy days of summer! With love and light,
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.
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Fairfield County Edition
See our advertiser index on page 62. Making it easier to find the resources you need.
natural awakenings
newsbriefs Visibility and Confidence Coaching for Entrepreneurs
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idgefield’s The Dancing Curtain is now offering visibility and confidence coaching services for entrepreneurs to help them to boost confidence and gain greater visibility with their clients, the media and the world. Founder Khristee Rich is a coach who specializes in helping artists and heart-centered entrepreneurs and Khristee Rich small business owners. Rich is offering a three-month coaching program to help business owners release their fears/doubts, venture outside of their comfort zone, and take actionable steps to increase their visibility. She encourages her clients to go “big” by trying online videos, public speaking, book writing, blog writing, and creating positive personable imagery on their websites. For those interested in The Dancing Curtain’s services, join the mailing list and set up a complimentary discovery call. Services are available via Skype, phone and in-person to those who live close to Rich’s home.
Be Allergy Free No Medication or Shots Needed!
“Eczema, gastric reflux, bloating, asthma, sinus conditions and digestive problems are often caused by food and chemical allergies.“ Seasonal, food, and environmental allergies can be eliminated with a revolutionary, noninvasive, child-friendly technique! Enhance immune and digestive system function to assist the body in the natural healing process with computerized allergy testing, treatment, elimination, and enzyme therapy.
FREE E-Book: “How To Stop Suffering From Food Sensitivities, ‘Allergies’ and Digestion Problems” Download at: www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com
Call 203-838-1555 for a complimentary consultation
Dr. Mark Joachim Developer of 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com
For more information, visit TheDancingCurtain.com or Facebook.com/TheDancingCurtain. The Dancing Curtain LLC is based in Ridgefield.
Paint Your Chakras Workshop in Greenwich
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n July 16, “Painting Your Chakras” will be a full-day workshop exploring creative spirit. No painting experience necessary. Greer Jonas, a painter and intuitive numerologist for over 25 years, will lead the event, which will take place from 9am to 5pm. Using meditation, paint and music dedicated to each chakra— Greer Jonas the major energy centers of the body—each participant will create their own authentic and colorful canvas. This process can bring insight and healing. The $180 per person fee includes art supplies. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted. Reservations are required as space is limited. To register, email Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com or call 203-531-4784. For more information on Greer Jonas, visit Numerology4YourSoul.com, email Greer@ Numerology4YourSoul.com or call 917-716-5814. Location: Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. eNaturalAwakenings.com
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newsbriefs High Time for Women’s Summer Camp
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oJo Keane, a Connecticut-based Inspired Yoga teacher, JourneyDance instructor and shamanic energy healer, will lead an Art & Energy Women’s Retreat in Stonington, Maine, during the weeks of July 10-15 and 17-22. Attendees can choose the days they would like to attend; the program rental will run Sunday at 3pm until Friday at noon. During the week, a slew of self-discovery and rejuvenation activities will be offered, from drawing, painting, printing and collaging to hiking, swimming, yoga and meditation. In addition to cooking local gourmet food together, the retreat gives participants a chance to ocean jump with the high tide, take healing mud baths with low tide, and sun on the rocks. Attendees will learn Ayurvedic healing body techniques and rediscover their essences through shamanic journey meditations, journaling and journey dancing Optional activities on mindfulness, exercise and art making will be offered. Participants can also explore art galleries, visit the town’s opera house theater, and eat lots of lobster. The price for each day is $125 ($100 for Maine commuters) with food included (BYOB). There are extra fees for lobster, the theater and any other admission-charging locations. For more information, visit InspiredSoul.net or call 203-994-2834.
Ancient Crystal Skull Synergy and Caretaker Sherry Whitfield Return to Connecticut
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herry Whitfield, caretaker and guardian of Synergy the Ancient Crystal Skull, from Tucson, Arizona, will offer private sessions and workshops in the New Milford and Ridgefield areas from August 2-6. Synergy and Whitfield have been featured on History Channel’s Ancient Aliens show as well as written up in numerous books Sherry Whitfield and websites on crystal skulls. The sessions are approximately 30 minutes in length and the fee is $75. Clients will have the opportunity to experience the energy of Synergy through a variety of shamanistic and energy techniques that serve to facilitate as well as intensify the experience. Synergy works with each person differently and different levels are accessed and activated each time the energy is experienced. Sessions may include shamanistic practices, energy work, working with totem animals, card reading, polarity balancing, past life readings and more. Sessions will include being able to touch Synergy. On August 2 at 7pm, the Introduction and Healing with Sherry and Synergy workshop will be offered at Twin Star Herbal Education, located at 65 Bank Street, New Milford. The pre-registration fee is $35. Another workshop, Working with Crystal Skulls with Synergy and Sherry, will take place on August 3 at 7pm at the Mother Earth Gallery, located at 449 Danbury Road, New Milford. Pre-registration is required for this $50 workshop. For registration and more information, contact Deana Paqua with Embody the Sacred at EmbodytheSacred.net. See ad, page 13.
Hunter Healing Hands
Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Holistic Healing to Honor, Restore, & Transform Body, Mind, & Soul Jessica Hunter
Shamanic Teacher, Practitioner, Shamanic Medium Crystal Healing Teacher, Melody Certified Crystal Healing Practitioner Reiki Master, OM, Circle of the Sacred Earth Quality Holistic Healing Training that is Personal, Professional, and Passionate!
• Certification & Accredited Training Programs in Reiki, Crystal Healing, & Shamanic Healing • Monthly Workshops & Events • Monthly Shamanic Drum Circles
Private Integrative Healing Sessions • Reiki • Crystal Healing & Melody Crystal Healing • Acupressure • Shamanic EFT • Shamanic Intuitive Readings • Shamanic Healing • Power Animal Retrievals • Soul Retrievals
• Extraction • Ancestral Healing • Shamanic Spirit Attachment Removal • Shamanic Curse Unravelling Healing • Shamanic Spiritual Counseling • Munay Ki Rites • Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses • Legal Sacred Ceremonies • Drum & Rattle Making Sessions
203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands.com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail.com 8
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Free Body-MindSpirit Expo in NYC
ROBIN QUEEN FINKELSTEIN Psychospiritual Counselor SlowMedicineTherapist.com 914-218-3113 office
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he Awaken Wellness Fair, the area’s oldest body-mind-spirit-green expo, will return to New York City on July 31. This year, admission is free. The fair will be held from 10am to 5pm in the Gold Ballroom of the Hotel Pennsylvania (enter on West 33rd Street) at 401 Seventh Avenue in Manhattan, New York. For 14 years, this wellness-focused, educational and experiential event has attracted more than 100 exhibitors to locations throughout the Tri-state area, growing from 42 visitors at the first fair in 2002 to hundreds in recent years. Over the years, the fair has expanded from one annual event to multiple events in New York City, Tarrytown and Brooklyn, New York as well as Fort Lee, New Jersey. Founder Paula Caracappa says the goal remains constant: to educate the public about the variety of wellness services and products that are available today. Vendors and practitioners will represent a broad range of products and services, from essential oils and Ayurvedic medicine to nutritional supplements, organic cleaning products, and healing crystals and jewelry. Intuitive readers and holistic healers will offer insight (for entertainment purposes only) through tarot reading, mediumship, angel reading, numerology and pet readings, and visitors can “sample” healing practices such as Reiki, reflexology and energy healing. Discounted appointments with readers and healers can be made at PPCGroup.FullSlate.com. For more information, visit AwakenFairs.com.
Where Whole Child Development Starts Outside Connecting Children and Families to the Natural World An outdoor preschool program that prepares children for formal education through nature immersion.
Children are free to explore and discover the natural world through play, gardening, and crafting with natural fibers.
Enrolling Now for 2016/2017 Preschool Program 203-491-0596 ! 10 Hattertown Road, Newtown, CT 06470 www.findusoutside.org ! info@findusoutside.org
CT A���������� C�����
G����� P������� E�������� T�������� ��� R����� Joint Pain • Injuries • Back Pain • Neck Pain Sciatica • Migraines • Headaches • Sinus Pain Allergies • Stress • Infertility Open 7 days a week Serving Fairfield, Bethel, Wilton for over 30 years
Ingri Boe-Wiegaard Licensed Acupuncturist
Call today for an appointment
Mention code NA44 for 20% discount Fairfield 203-259-1660 | Bethel 203-778-6551 | Wilton 203-762-3646 www.ctacupuncture.com | Most insurances accepted
Take Your Business to the Next Level Create the vision and success for yourself and/or your team with the guidance and support of a professional business coach.
Robin Ordan, LSCW
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203-561-8535 www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border
Business Coaching For Pinnacle Success eNaturalAwakenings.com
July 2016
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newsbriefs
End-of-Life Doula Training Offered in Weston
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arents and caregivers of young children age birth to three and a half are invited to attend weekly parent-child classes at the Housatonic Valley Waldorf School to experience the Waldorf early childhood atmosphere and community. The 10am-noon classes are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays. The new summer session, which runs for four weeks in July, is $150. While children play, the parents work with their hands, creating crafts and playthings. After playing, everyone shares a wholesome snack. Circle time includes songs, finger games and simple puppet plays. Each session time will be spent outside in the school’s playground. The Housatonic Valley Waldorf School is based on the ideas of educator, scientist and philosopher, Dr. Rudolf Steiner, who founded the first Waldorf School. At the core of the Waldorf philosophy is the conviction that education is an artistic process and knowledge is best learned experientially as well as academically. There are now over 900 schools in 83 countries.
n August 5-7, The Alliance for Conscious Transitioning in Weston will present Vigil Doula Training Class led by Henry Fersko-Weiss, LCSW. Fersko-Weiss created the first end-of-life doula program in the United States in 2003 and is co-founder of International End of Life Doula Association (INELDA). End-of-life doulas support and guide people and their loved ones emotionally, physically and spiritually through the dying process. The focus is on how to make a person’s last days meaningful. This 22-hour weekend training includes how to initiate planning for end-of life; setting the physical space in regards to sight, sound and feel; becoming aware of symptoms and signs of imminent death; attending to emotions and the need for sacredness; creating guided visualizations and rituals; planning legacy projects; assisting with basic physical care; and ensuring the patient doesn’t have to die alone. Since the 1920s, death has become less about the ideas and practice of our family’s ancestors and traditions and more of a medical matter. The concept of end-of-life doulas is a new movement responding to a need to present alternative approaches to this time in our lives. This workshop is intended for family members, caregivers, nurses, clergy, social workers, community members and others that are interested. The fee is $375 per person.
For information, visit WaldorfCT.org/ParentChild or call 203-364-1113, ext. 102. Location: Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, 40 Dodgingtown Rd (302), Newtown. See ad, page 21.
For more information or to register, visit AllianceFCT.com, email Info@AllianceFCT.com or call 203-912-2791. Location: Liphe Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston. See ad, page 15.
July Program at Housatonic Valley Waldorf School
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Inaugural "New Client Pilates Package" 3 Private Sessions for $125. A $300 value! Also includes our "30 minute Studio Intro Session" (a $70 value)
Everything you need to start you off on the right track. Your Instructor will introduce you to the fundamental concepts and principles of Pilates as well as get you acquainted with the various Pilates apparatus.
203-973-7262 | info@artofcontrol.com
203-349-9888 | info@originfitnessct.com
1177 Summer Street | Stamford, CT 06905 10
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Darien Hosts Essential Oils for Emotional Health Class
D
o you or someone in your family struggle with anxious feelings or a sense of overwhelm? Would you like to elevate the level of joy in your home? Interested in creating an atmosphere of focus and calm during homework time? Do you want to reduce the load of toxins and chemicals in your environment? Kristin Van Wey On July 27 at 7pm in Darien, an Essential Emotions class will be taught by master teacher, Kristin Van Wey, on how dōTERRA essential oils and natural solutions can support overall health and wellness. Founded in 2008, dōTERRA International LLC produces and distributes certified pure, therapeutic grade essential oils through more than a million independent international distributors also known as wellness advocates. In addition to a line of essential oils used by individuals and healthcare professionals, the company also offers personal care and spa products, nutritional supplements and healthy living products. To register for the class and to receive the exact location, contact Julie Punishill at JPunishill@mac.com or 617-851-9773.
Dr. Guerin introduces...
The Acu-Thin program Hunger Stops, Weight Drops, Almost Magic The Acu - Thin program is a system of weight loss based on the principle of auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture) used to decrease the desire for food. It can be done with needles “I can now fit into or without needles.
those clothes that I was keeping in the back of my closet & feel more confident because I know I look better as a thinner me! Thank you for this program.” Janice B.
First Treatment only $49 Offer expires 8/31/16
For a confidential appointment call our office
Dr. Patrick J. Guerin D.C., F.I.A.M.A. 256 Post Road East, Wesport, CT 06880 203-227-4474 • www.acuthin.com
Joyful Movement Series Commences in Stamford
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t. John’s Episcopal Church in Stamford is offering a new summer class that integrates simple dance and yoga moves with contemporary Christian music. Each rain-or-shine session begins with a centering prayer, then moves into a warm up for the cardio-dance segment, and mixes in meditation and basic yoga poses for a fun, faith-filled workout. Beginning July 12, this class takes place every Tuesday evening from 6:15-7:15pm at St. John’s Episcopal in downtown Stamford, located at 628 Main Street. Free parking is available under Canterbury Green on Suburban Street. A free will offering is encouraged. The summer classes take place in an outdoor courtyard. Kathleen Gallagher has been leading Christian Yoga at St. John’s for many years and recently decided to update the format to bring in more cardio along with stretching, balance and relaxation. The purpose of this class is to go deeper physically and spiritually. Gallagher is a certified Kripalu yoga instructor and has been teaching for over 10 years. For more information, call 973-476-9582 or email PositivePathNow@gmail.com.
~ equestrian gifts ~ pottery ~ buddas ~ crystals of all sizes ~ books ~ angels
Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose
203-438-7146
452 Main Street, Ridgefield
touchofsedonaridgefield.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
Open Every Day Until 5:30
July 2016
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Brookfield Craft Center’s
newsbriefs Sunday Brunch Benefits Slow Medicine Foundation
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Hands-on art Summer Youth Program Summer Youth Programs for Ages 11-14 8 sessions in July and August Half-day programs in Ceramics, Drawing, Fiber Arts, Glass, Painting, Woodturning, Blacksmithing, and more. Scholarships are available. For more information, visit us at www.Brook�eldcraft.org Brookfield Craft Center 286 Whisconier �oad, Brook�eld, CT 06804 203.775.4526
The Center for Natural Medicine
Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine • Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia
• Men’s Health • Cancer Support • Colds and Flus • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss
Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Mara Davidson Cindy Wechsler, APRN Tracy Pardo Joy Carbino, LMT Beverly Lewis 8 Lincoln Street Westport, CT 06880
• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Eczema • Allergies • Asthma • Food Sensitivities
Dr. Ellen Lewis
Medical Director
p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601
www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org
Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy Classes & Workshops
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natural awakenings
unRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine will host a Sunday brunch from 10am to noon on July 10 at its Slow Medicine Café in Bedford, New York. The suggested donation of $25, or $10 for children ages 10 to 15, will benefit the Slow Medicine Foundation. The brunch is free for children nine and under. “We will provide a farmto-table breakfast of freshly picked greens from our garden, an egg frittata, coffee and teas,” says Michael Finkelstein, MD, SunRaven’s founder and director. “So much of our health is affected by what we put into our bodies. And there are many opinions out there.” Finkelstein suggests that what’s on our mind when we eat is as important as what is on our plate. “Think of it this way: if the organic broccoli you’ve chosen is on your plate so you don’t get cancer, then cancer is in your mind when you eat. And that’s not a great recipe for health.” His nutrition advice is simple: “Pick fresh, whole foods that make you feel vibrant and well. Pick foods with color, and with a story—perhaps you bought it at a local farmer’s market and actually met the farmer. Eat meals that have been prepared with care and artistry, served on a table with flowers and candles—meals during which you actually are seated, at inner peace, surrounded by those you love.” Finkelstein offers health evaluations with customized medical guidance. He is currently accepting new patients for his holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching practice, and he also provides second opinions from a holistic perspective. To register for brunch at the Slow Medicine Café, visit SlowMedicineDoctor.com/Event/Slow-Medicine-Cafe-2/. For more information, call 914-218-3113. Location: Slow Medicine Café, SunRaven Campus, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. See ad, page 9.
kudos Radiant Physical Therapy Celebrates Business Milestone
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adiant Physical Therapy is celebrating its six-month business anniversary on July 4. Megan E. Richey, PT, DPT, focuses on holistic physical therapy and women’s health physical therapy in her practice, with an advanced specialization in myofascial release as taught by John F. Barnes, PT. Radiant Physical Therapy focuses on the whole person in one-on-one sessions, including the primary injury. Myofascial release utilizes a hands-on approach of various pressures. “Pain is not the only indicator of injury or lack of ease in the body. Lack of energy, discomfort, headaches and gastric upset also indicate that the body is not optimally functioning. It may be structural in the tissue or not. Radiant PT is able to screen and assess that,” explains Richey, who has a doctorate from Duke University School of Medicine. Radiant Physical Therapy is open Mondays 2-8pm, Tuesdays noon-8pm, Thursdays 9:30am-4:30pm and Fridays 8am-4:30pm.
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Deana Paqua, MA, LMT
spiritual teacher, holistic health educator, shamanic healer and reiki master teacher
Spiritual, cross-cultural and holistic health education for healers and spiritual seekers... transform trauma into triumph, heal yourself and make a difference.
ridgefield & new milford ct
www.embodythesacred.net
deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045
For more information, visit RadiantPhysicalTherapy.com or call 860-898-0879. Location: Radiant Physical Therapy, Ridgefield Health and Wellness Center, 109 Danbury Rd, D10, Ridgefield.
Sharp and Flat Hits a High Note
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harp and Flat, a new music school in Litchfield/Bantam with a focus on small town and community creative growth, has just celebrated its six-month anniversary. The school is the first of this branding of the Guitar Cities schools, which are located in New York, London, Chicago and San Francisco. Lessons at Sharp and Flat are taught in a low-stress format, meeting once a week for a half-hour or full-hour lesson, and follow a program developed by the Guitar Cities instructors based on experiences as instructors and careers as touring and recording professionals. Students also have the opportunity to apply their instruction by writing and recording their own songs on professional studio equipment. “I picked this location as I love the creative community that continues to develop here, as well as much of my training for Team USA in the modern pentathlon and triathlon happens in the area, between Bethlehem, Litchfield, New Milford, and New York,” explains James Lenger, the Guitar Cities schools’ founder. For more information, visit SharpandFlat.com. Location: Sharp and Flat, Switch Factory, 931 Bantam Rd, Litchfield.
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healthbriefs
Energy Drinks Harm the Heart
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n addition to alertness, energy drinks may also trigger abnormal heart rhythms and increased blood pressure. Researchers from the School of Pharmacy at the University of the Pacific, in Stockton, California, tested 27 healthy adults. The volunteers were split into three groups—one drank two cans of an energy drink per day, another consumed the same amount of a drink with Panax ginseng and the third a similar-tasting placebo beverage. The subjects were given cardiovascular testing before and after the trial. After three weeks, the group imbibing the energy drinks had a significant increase in abnormal heart rhythms and higher blood pressure. The ginseng and placebo groups saw no change in their heart conditions. Sachin A. Shah, a doctor of pharmacy and professor at Pacific’s School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, says, “Our findings suggest that certain energy drinks may increase the risk of having an abnormal heart rhythm when consumed in high volumes. While we wait for more data, some consumers should exercise caution and not blindly follow the buzz.” The Center for Science in Public Interest, a consumer health advocacy group, has reported that as of June 2014, 34 deaths have been associated with energy drinks.
Colorful Produce Slows Cell Aging
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new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition finds that an increased intake of carotenoids, powerful antioxidants found in plant-based foods, is associated with slower aging. The research tested 3,660 U.S. adults and measured blood levels of five common carotenoids: alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, combined lutein/zeaxanthin and trans-lycopene. The researchers found that those with levels that were in the highest quarter had 5 percent to 8 percent longer telomeres compared to those with the lowest quartile of carotenoid levels. Telomeres are located at the ends of DNA chromosomes and get shorter as we age. Longer telomeres indicate greater longevity. Carotenoids are found in the yellow-to-red pigments in many yellow, red and orange foods. They are also contained in green foods where chlorophyll shields the yellow-red color. Alpha-carotenes are present in carrots, cantaloupes, mangoes, kale, spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Beta-carotene is found in some of the same foods, and also tomatoes, apricots and watermelons. Beta-cryptoxanthin is found in papayas, apples and orange peels. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in some of the same foods, along with kiwifruit, grapes, oranges, zucchini and squash. Some of the highest levels are in corn. Lycopene is in tomatoes, watermelons, papayas, apricots and other red-to-yellow foods.
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Neurotoxins Identified in Everyday Items
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esearch published in the British medical journal The Lancet has newly identified six neurotoxins: manganese, fluoride, chlorpyrifos, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene or PERC) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE). Manganese exposure is found in welding and high-octane gas fumes, among other sources; fluoride is used in many municipal water supplies, glass etching and chrome cleaners. Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate contained in many pesticides, including Dursban and Lorsban. While DDT has been banned from insecticides within the U.S., it is still contained in other agents, including petroleum distillates. DDT is also still used in some areas to spray for mosquitoes. PERC has often been used in dry cleaning and for degreasing metals. PBDEs appear as flame retardants and to make electronics, household goods, building materials, polyurethane foams, plastics and more. The same researchers previously identified lead, methylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls, arsenic and toluene as neurotoxins. The neurotoxin label means they affect the nervous system and can cause neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, attention deficit disorders, dyslexia and others.
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globalbriefs newsbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens 7eFit Spa Open House to work together in building a healthier, stronger in Stamford society that benefits all.
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tamford has a new option for those seeking Bright Lights Drive Them to to look and feel Extinction their best during ™ National Moth Week, the holiday seaheld from July 23 to son and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridge Road, 31 (visit NationalMooffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive techthWeek.org for podcast), niques to support mind and body wellness. An open house is has prompted the International scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm. Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to encourage cities to install The regular service offerings—which will be available as motion-sensitive streetlights and is working to Relax while ourdimming technology brief demonstration sessions during the open house—include designate dark-sky parks that could provide a refuge for . does work anti-aging andthe oxygen facials with oxygen therapy, Torc Plus bionocturnal species. The giant silk moth and other insects Noelectric surgery or invasive stimulation for procedures. targeted muscle activation (also available pollinate 80 percent of our food crops. In turn, their bodInfrared Sauna therapy) • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifiiesMyolift sustain innumerable birds, rodents and bats. Entire • Torc Body Waxing personal weight cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster loss program. ecosystems rest on their delicate, powdery wings. Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki The Torc Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known to be Only two species of moths are protected under the Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials effective for muscle tightening, toning, cellulite reduction Endangered Species Act, and three others have gone extinct in and inchTeeth loss.Whitening the pastSave decade. Many populations are seeing declines of up Now with Founder Tracey Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident to 99Introductory percent. Between monoculture crops, pesticides, changPrices! and business owner, decided to open 7eFitSpa because she ing climate, urbanization and decreasing darkness due to Call 203-356-5822 wanted a new business dedicated to helping people look artificial lighting, the future of night-flying moths is uncertain. and feel their best. The |spa had a soft opening in June but Highonly Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06905 1092Their goal is to reproduce, guided to suitable nestwas fully operational with all equipment and services avail7efitspact1@gmail.com | of www.7efitspa.com ing grounds by the shadow the moon; many moth species able in mid-September. do not even have mouths. However, cities now glow brighter than a full moon, and ambient light pollution radiating from For more information, visit 7eLLC.com and visit the urban areas draws moths to their deaths. IDA Program ManStamford location, email 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or call ager John Barentine says, “Every time a person turns off and 203-356-5822. Location: 1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford shields a porch light on their house, they’re helping.” (inside Salon Cheveaux). See ad, page 15.
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GMO-Free Shamanic Pioneer Healing Retreat New Grain Transport to be Contaminant-Free in Redding Large food companies that are
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oin shamanic practitioners and to non-GMO (geneticalswitching teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica soy and corn prodly modified) Hunter for a day of shamanic healing ucts must still worry about their for gratitude, transformation, abuningredients picking up GMO dance, discovery and enlightenment. contamination through convenThis all-day healing retreat tional is open supply chains. Now, Capto anyone and all levels who tainwish Drake LLC, a North Dakota to learn more about shamanism and has acquired its own grain plant, shamanic healing practices and techmillion-bushel terminal with dedicatniques that used can be incorporated into DeanaPresident Paqua ed rail cars exclusively for GMO-free grains. daily life for transformation and posiMark Anderson maintains, “We’ll be able to obtain the best tive changes. The event will heldregions: at non-GMO commodities frombethree North Dakota, the sanctuary at The Redding Center Minnesota and Manitoba, Canada.” on November 1430,000 from consumers, 43 for Meditation In a 2015 Nielsen study of 10am to 5pm. percent rank non-GMO as very important and 80 percent variety of techniques and teachsaid A they would pay more for foods that indicate a degree ings will be incorporated throughout of healthfulness. Sales of non-GMO products exceeded $10 the day,last including shamanic journey billion year and are growing. work, shamanic ceremonies, supply chain needs to be Anderson explains, “Thecrystal healing, medicine healingWe consider this tightenedvarious up andspirit moved domestically. teachings and shamanic techniques Jessica clients Hunter to be another strategic asset for foodfor and beverage clearingsuppliers and manifestation practices. seeking committed to guaranteeing the integrity Paqua and of Hunter bring acommodities.” unique and informative combinaand purity non-GMO tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. Paqua specializes in Andean and South American shaSource: Tinyurl.com/NonGMOGrainTerminal manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American shamanic traditions. Together, they provide educational and inspirational shamanic gatherings that encompass a variety of teachings and a global connection of a variety of ShaThe way to get started is to manic Healing practices.
quit talking and begin doing.
For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net and ~WaltSee Disney HunterHealingHands.com. ads, pages 10 and 20.
Source: Sierra Club
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Farm-to-Work
Fresh Veggies Come Direct to Offices Pioneering employers are now offering fresh vegetables to help employees improve their diet—and their health. Tech companies are even hiring professional chefs to prepare healthful lunches and snacks. In Texas, the Farm to Work program is making it easy and affordable for workers to pick up baskets of local produce at the office. Participants aren’t required to pay an initial lump sum or commit to buying every week. Instead, they can sign up to receive produce in any given week. Other groups around the country are also looking into workplace produce delivery programs, and while many use the traditional community supported agriculture (CSA) model, others are experimenting with different procedures. The Farm Fresh Program, in Bellingham, Washington, connects local farmers to employers interested in receiving weekly deliveries. Meanwhile, Farm2Work, in Arkansas, links local purveyors of produce, meat, eggs, dairy, pies, jams and jellies to area employers. New York’s Adirondack Harvest, a branch of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, started by helping a single farmer link to area employers. The next step, says Teresa Whalen, the group’s southern chapter representative, is working to persuade insurance companies to subsidize workplace CSAs in the same way they’re starting to subsidize gym memberships.
ecotip Eco-Beach Blast
Sustainable Ways to Enjoy Sand and Surf When eco-conscious families hit the beach this summer, there’s more to be aware of than just picking up trash like drink containers, wrappers and found litter. Here are some other ways we can enhance our beach and water experiences while upping fitness benefits. Rising water levels and severe weather events have damaged coastlines, so extra care is needed. When setting up a beach spot, stay away from sand dunes and pockets of beach grass that serve as natural defenses against beach erosion. Also watch out for marked-off turtle hatching spots; prime nesting season is May through October, according to the nonprofit Turtle Conservancy. Teach kids not to chase birds. Walk around shorebirds to cause minimal disturbance; it’s stressful dodging danger during meals and wastes precious energy stores. Walking on soft sand is like a weight-training workout, as detailed in Michael Sandler and Jessica Lee’s Barefoot Walking book. Polluting chemicals enter waterways via fertilizer and industry runoff and accidents like the BP Gulf oil spill; don’t contribute more by using sunscreen that contains oxybenzine, which reportedly alters hormone function. The Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) maintains an online guide of safe sunscreens. The Huffington Post also suggests that we can make our own by mixing zinc oxide (a sunblocking agent), coconut oil (soothes and conditions skin), beeswax (for waterproofing) and tea tree oil (soothes and repairs skin and smells good). The same care applies to chemical hair dyes, shampoos, conditioners and straighteners. Patronize clean, green salons that use natural hair treatments free of synthetic chemicals, ammonia or para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Or search “nontoxic hair care” online. Plan a visit to coincide with a public volunteer beach cleanup event. Check with national organizations like Keep America Beautiful (KAB.org) and local or countywide groups, as well as social media sites for group activities.
Source: FarmToWork.org
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communityspotlight
Harbor Harvest Explores Disruptive Sustainability Innovative Shipbuilding Delivers Local Food by Ariana Rawls Fine
“W
e’re shipbuilders by trade with a family background in food,” explains Bob Kunkel, co-owner of Harbor Harvest, about the retail sustainable food enterprise that opened last fall in East Norwalk. The store strives to be farm-tomarket, locally sourcing foods as much as possible. With a butcher and produce section reminiscent of the mom-and-pop markets of yesteryear, Harbor Harvest sources fresh produce, dairy and meats from farms and vendors throughout Connecticut and New York. By doing so, the store supports local farmers, increases the freshness of the products, and cuts down on the environmental impact of long-distance goods delivery. “The store is a hybrid and it’s because we are engineers; it’s not just a store, but a start at looking at a much bigger picture with environmental issues with delivery transportation,” says Kunkel. Kunkel and co-owner Ernie Marsan are passionate about this aspect of 18
Fairfield County Edition
disruptive sustainability and how their boatbuilding and local delivery service can contribute to combating the environmental side of global warming and emissions. “We see the damage done when food is not sourced locally with emissions, traffic, noise pollution and gas usage. We are doing our little part by delivering by lithium-powered bicycles,” explains Kunkel. “But we are really aiming to move traffic from main highways by using waterways responsibly on Long Island Sound and the Hudson River.” Through his Stamford-based ship construction and design company, Alternative Marine Technologies (AlternativeMarineTech.com), Kunkel was the project manager for the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium’s The Spirit of the Sound hybrid-electric research vessel. He is currently creating a lithiumpowered, refrigerated boat to travel between the harbors of Connecticut and Long Island as a “blue” alternative to
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long delivery times caused by congestion and highway distance between the two areas. “With Harbor Harvest, we wanted to create a food hub to see what local products were needed and desired. We saw issues immediately with in-demand items. For instance, customers on the Long Island side want fresh meat from Connecticut while getting Long Island’s amazing potatoes and wine to Connecticut was an issue. What would be a two-hour delivery from port to port can take more than half a day on the highways,” Kunkel says. Another issue with refrigerated delivery revolves around multiple truck stops for drop-offs. By the end of the route, the risk of spoilage is much higher because of the number of times the doors are opened for deliveries. This issue is alleviated with the refrigerated delivery boat design, which holds up to 12,000 pounds of product and only travels between ports. Two common issues with coastal shipping along Long Island Sound—coastal homeowners not wanting to see the industry side of shipping and the associated noise and pollution— are alleviated by Alternative Marine Technologies’ more aesthetically pleasing boat design and the quiet and cleanliness of lithium batteries for power. “We are starting small to show that sustainability one neighborhood at a time works,” Kunkel expresses. This mindset is seen in the store as well with frequent cooking classes offered. Using the expertly butchered local meats, the owners aim to show customers how to work with the meats and fresh produce for different uses in everyday life with new techniques and recipes. For more information, visit Facebook. com/HarborHarvest, email HarborHarvest7@gmail.com or call 203-939-9289. Harbor Harvest is open weekdays 8am to 8pm, Saturdays 8am to 6pm, and Sundays 9am to 3pm. Location: Harbor Harvest, 7 Cove Ave, Norwalk. See ad, page 25. Ariana Rawls Fine is editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County and Natural Awakenings New Haven/Middlesex Counties. She resides in Stratford with her family.
inspiration
Signs That You’ve Found Your Calling by Lissa Rankin
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ou may think you’ve identified your calling, questioned it, become disillusioned, left it and then come back to it in a different form. The following clues let you know you’re on the right track. You realize you’ve been training for this since birth. Even the gritty things, the disappointments, regrets and screwups have all been preparation. Major life disruptions and failures were all just teaching essential lessons so that you can become who you’re called to be. You sense ease. In the face of obstacles—such as doors of suspected opportunity that are shut tight or relentless struggles impeding a course you thought was right—it can be hard to tell if your commitment is just being tested or you’ve veered off course. Such hurdles can be part of the growth process cultivating your “inner hero” necessary for the jour-
ney. Trust the sense of movement towards ease, which likely will include supportive synchronicities. Your health may improve. Cravings for unhealthy foods will lessen and you’ll feel more energetic. Old aches and pains might disappear; even chronic illness can fade when you’re focused on your life purpose. You feel strangely peaceful, despite reasons to be anxious. Your soul longs to express what you’re on Earth to express, and when you finally rise into alignment with your calling, your soul does a happy dance. Even if everything else seems to be falling apart and others consider you crazy, you’ll be centered in peace, relieved that you finally know what you’re called to do. The universe rolls out the red carpet. When called to do what is needed for the highest good of all beings, the universe bends over backwards to hand
you whatever you need. No request is too small. Unexpected money flows in and other resources appear just as you’re ready to give up. You’ll know you’re on track, even if it is not quite clear what you’re on track to do. People find you. Few can fulfill a calling alone. Most of us need a tribe to lift us up as we do brave, scary, world-changing things. When you’re aligned with your life purpose, the right people, including magic-wielding mentors, will find you at the right time, if only you’re courageous enough to be vulnerable about what you’re being called to do. Dr. Lissa Rankin, founder of the Whole Health Medicine Institute, is the author of Mind Over Medicine, The Fear Cure and The Anatomy of a Calling (TheAnatomyOfACalling.com).
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tions between diet and health, climate, environment and social justice, even many Americans that still like the taste of hamburger and steak have sided with Berry; they want sustainably raised, humane and healthful red meat.
Unsustainable Corporate Lobby
Meaty Truths Choosing Meat that’s Sustainable and Safe by Melinda Hemmelgarn
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n his essay The Pleasures of Eating, Wendell Berry, a Kentucky farmer and poet, writes: “If I am going to eat meat, I want it to be from an animal that has lived a pleasant, uncrowded life outdoors, on bountiful pasture, with good water nearby and trees for shade.” He, like a growing number of conscious eaters, wants no part of the industrial meat system in which animals are raised in concentrated animal feeding operations.
Media coverage has helped educate consumers previously unaware of how their food is produced and why it matters. The documentary film Food Inc., as well as books like Fast Food Nation, by Eric Schlosser and The Chain, by Ted Genoways, describe common livestock industry practices that mistreat animals, pollute water and air, endanger workers and threaten public health. With increased understanding of the connec-
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Every five years, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines are revised to reflect the latest nutritional science. In 2015, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee attempted to include the concept of sustainability. The committee, which included top nutrition scientists, defined sustainable diets as “a pattern of eating that promotes health and wellbeing and provides food security for the present population while sustaining human and natural resources for future generations.” It made the case that a diet higher in plant-based foods and lower in animal-based foods both promotes health and protects the environment—resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions, and less energy, land and water use. But political pressure from the livestock industry prevailed, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Burwell jointly announced, “We do not believe that the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans are the appropriate vehicle for this important policy conversation about sustainability.” Instead, they advised the committee to focus solely on nutritional and dietary information. In her book Food Politics, nutritionist and author Marion Nestle explains that recommendations to decrease consumption have never been popular with the food industry. Nonetheless, Roni Neff, Ph.D., who directs the Center for a Livable Future’s Food System Sustainability and Public Health Program at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, in Baltimore, recommends consuming less red meat in particular, because of its large environmental footprint. Neff points out, “Thirty percent of greenhouse gas emissions are connected to red meat.”
Risky Hormones and Antibiotics Mike Callicrate, a St. Francis, Kansas, rancher educated in the industrial model of meat production, is considered an expert on its negative consequences. He served as an advisor for Food Inc., and Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma. Callicrate observes, “The same chemical compounds that athletes are banned from using in baseball are used to produce our food animals, which our children eat in the hot dogs at the ballgame.” According to the USDA, about 90 percent of feedlot cattle receive hormone implants to promote growth. Yet the European Union Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures Relating to Public Health reports that the use of natural and artificial growth hormones in beef production poses a potential risk to human health, especially among children. Concerns about growth-promoting drugs led the American Academy of Pediatrics to call for studies that directly measure their impact on children through milk and meat. The President’s Cancer Panel Report on Reducing Environmental Cancer Risk also states, “Growth hormones may contribute to endocrine disruption in humans.” Their
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There is Nothing Common About It
However, not all red meat is created equal. In her book Defending Beef, environmental lawyer and cattle rancher Nicolette Hahn Niman makes a case for sustainable meat production, noting, “Well-managed grazing could be part of an effective strategy to combat climate change.” In their book The New Livestock Farmer, authors Rebecca Thistlethwaite and Jim Dunlop praise the increase in farmers producing pasture-raised, ethical meats and the growing number of farmers selling directly to people that reject the industrial system. Neff likewise supports such sustainable livestock agriculture, which integrates pasture-raised animals on farms, rather than isolating them on feedlots, where they typically eat a grain-based diet (such as genetically engineered corn) and receive growth stimulants, including hormones and antibiotics.
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dietary recommendations include choosing meat raised without hormones and antibiotics.
Rising Resistance Antibiotic resistance is now one of the world’s most critical public health problems, and it’s related to misuse of antibiotics in animal agriculture. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Antibiotic resistance—when bacteria don’t respond to the drugs designed to kill them— threatens to return us to the time when simple infections were often fatal.” Veterinarian and food safety consultant Gail Hansen, of Washington, D.C., explains that bacteria naturally develop resistance anytime we use antibiotics. “The problem is overuse and misuse; that’s the recipe for disaster.” She explains that more than 70 percent of the antibiotics sold in the U.S. are not used to treat sick animals, but to promote growth and reduce the risk of infection related to raising animals in unsanitary, overcrowded spaces. A recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states:
Because climate change is accelerating and is already causing a multitude of adverse effects, and the footprint of our current food system is massive, we urgently need to create a national food supply that is both healthy and sustainable. ~Dr. Walter Willett, Harvard School of Public Health Adding antibiotics to the feed of healthy livestock “often leave the drugs ineffective when they are needed to treat infections in people.” The AAP supports buying meat from organic farms, because organic farming rules prohibit the nontherapeutic use of antibiotics. Stacia Clinton, a registered dietitian in Boston who works with the international
nonprofit Health Care Without Harm, assists hospitals in both reducing meat on their menus and increasing purchases of meat from animals raised without antibiotics. The goal is to reduce the growing number of antibioticresistant infections that cost hospitals and patients billions of dollars each year. A Friends of the Earth report, Chain Reaction: How Top Restaurants Rate on Reducing Use of Antibiotics in Their Meat Supply, revealed that most meat served by American’s top chain restaurants come from animals raised in industrial facilities where they are fed antibiotics. Only two out of 25 chains, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Panera Bread, report that the majority of their meat is raised without routine antibiotics. A recent study by Consumers Union also found antibiotic-resistant bacteria on retail meat samples nationwide. In California, Governor Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 27, making his the first state to ban the use of routine low doses of antimicrobial drugs that are medically important to
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ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF
INFLAMMATION?
D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8
1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851
humans to promote livestock weight gain or feed efficiency. The bill doesn’t go into effect until January 2018, but will contribute to making meat safer and antibiotic drugs more effective.
To be interested in food, but not in food production, is clearly absurd. ~Wendell Berry
Red and Processed Meats Targeted
Dietary advice to reduce the consumption of red and processed meats, regardless of how the animals are raised, is not new. Kelay Trentham, a registered dietitian in Tacoma, Washington, who specializes in cancer prevention and treatment, points out that joint reports from the World Cancer Research Fund International and American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) since 2007 have recommended restricting consumption of red meat to less than 18 ounces a week and avoiding processed meats. In 2015, the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified processed meat (like hot dogs, ham, sausages, corned beef and beef jerky) as “carcinogenic to humans” and red meat (beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse and goat) as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Risk increases with amount consumed, and the evidence is strongest for the relation of processed meats to colorectal cancer. Trentham explains some factors that make red and processed meats risky. “Heating or smoking meat creates cancer-causing compounds. Processed meats contain salts, nitrates and nitrites; a chemical mélange of preservatives that can increase risk,” she says. Trentham and Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and advisor to the AICR, concur that the form of iron found in meat also contributes to cancer risk. Still, the IARC report recognizes, “Eating meat has known health benefits.” Meat is a rich source of protein and B vitamins, iron and zinc. Livestock feed further influences nutritional composition, with meat from cattle raised on pasture (grass) containing higher levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids compared to meat from animals fed grain. According to medical doctor and National Institutes of Health researcher Captain Joseph Hibbeln, consuming fewer omega-6 fatty acids and more omega-3s may be one of the most important dietary changes for cutting the risk of chronic diseases, reducing inflammation, improving mental health, enhancing children’s brain and eye development and reducing worldwide incidence of cardiovascular disease by 40 percent. When it comes to eating meat, the agricultural practices, quantity consumed, and methods of processing and cooking make a difference. It turns out that what’s good for the environment is good for animals and people, too. Melinda Hemmelgarn is an award-winning registered dietitian, writer and Food Sleuth Radio host with KOPN.org, in Columbia, MO. Connect at FoodSleuth@gmail.com.
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Fairfield County Edition
Land Manager Allan Savory on Holistic Pasturing How Cows Can Help Reverse Climate Change by Linda Sechrist
W
hen concurrent dangers arising from overpopulation, desertification (fertile land turning to desert) and climate change were just beginning to attract technological solutions, pioneers like Allan Savory, a young wildlife biologist in Zimbabwe, Africa, were researching how healthy soil captures carbon dioxide and stores it as carbon. It’s the way nature renders the most pervasive greenhouse gas more helpful than harmful and a major reason why this is not happening globally is because of desertification. This innovative game-changer has since received Australia’s 2003 Banksia International Award for “doing the most for the environment on a global scale” and the 2010 Buckminster Fuller Challenge, recognizing solutions that address humanity’s most pressing problems. The Savory Institute, founded in 2009, and its Africa Center for Holistic Management, demonstrate how using livestock to improve soil and decrease dependence on water— plus increase its ability to hold moisture and carbon—grows more grass and improves profits for ranchers, landowners and investors.
What prompted your examination of soil biology? In the 1960s, I first became alarmed at the rate of land degradation in Africa’s vast grasslands, which were turning to desert. Looking for a solution, I hit upon a profound relationship—that
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the grasslands, their soils, soil life, plants and animals had evolved symbiotically with large, grazing herbivores of many species and packhunting predators. As my inquiry led beyond Africa, I noticed that the same was true of similar ecosystems worldwide, including those of the U.S. Great Plains. Long ago, the Great Plains supported herbivores that traveled in immense herds for safety from predators. Where there are now approximately 11 large mammal species, there were once more than 50. The trampling of dung and urine, as well as grazing of such vast numbers constantly on the move, developed deep carbon-storing and rain-holding soils that also break down methane. Only in the presence of large roaming herds of herbivores periodically working the surface soil does this happen; it works much like a gardener does, breaking bare surfaces and covering them with litter and dung. Only in this way do grasslands thrive.
How did this revolutionize your thinking about land and livestock management? Being trained at a university to believe that grazing livestock causes land degradation blinded me to the deeper understanding that humans’ management of the animals, not the animals themselves, has been the problem. Historically, the healthiest soils in the world’s vast grain-growing regions were those that had supported the largest populations of natural wildlife and
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How is holistic pasturing proceeding? Ultimately, the only sustainable economy for any nation is derived from growing plants on regenerating soil. Today’s conventional agriculture is producing more than 75 billion tons of dead, eroding soil every year—more than 10 tons for every human alive. The largest areas of the world’s land are either grasslands or former grasslands. Holistic, planned grazing to reverse desertification has gained support from thousands of individual ranchers, scientists, researchers, pastoralists and farmers. Currently, it is practiced on more than 30 million acres over six continents with encouraging success. The Savory Institute encourages and links locally led and managed holistic management hubs around the world, now numbering 30 in Africa, Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Sweden, Turkey, the UK and U.S., with more forming every year. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
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Food Integrity Begins at Home
Self-Sufficiency and Technology Foster Innovation by Jessica Moon
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here food comes from and how it is produced is under heightened scrutiny as the hidden additives in the food supply are exposed. Individuals and companies are promoting change by exposing large conglomerates’ food production practices and mobilizing the public to press for more transparency and integrity. Another approach is to keep food production closer to home. One of the best ways to ensure the food we eat is the most nutritious, fresh and sustainable possible is to grow it ourselves. “Growing your own food is the most accurate way to guarantee what you’re eating,” says Spencer Curry of FRESH Farm Aquaponics in Bloomfield. His organization works with a growing number of small-scale food producers who are driven by a desire to ensure their community eats well. New technologies create opportunities for more groups of people
to successfully grow food, Curry explains, contributing to the resurgence in gardening and farming. Fairfield’s Nancy and Tom Grant are an inspiring story of local growers. Seven years ago, the retired couple decided to start growing a few vegetables on their property to sell to local buyers. They’ve since acquired official farm status from the city of Fairfield and have expanded their garden to become the four-acre Grant Farm LLC. They produce a wide variety of organic produce, including greens, heirloom tomatoes, berries, flowers and apples. Local small markets and restaurants seek out their produce for freshness and quality that may not be available through larger distributors. To those looking to start growing their own produce, Nancy Grant recommends starting small and using online resources to get questions answered. “You
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learn as you go, and you’ll make mistakes,” she advises. There are a number of online resources for learning what and how to grow in our area. Gardentribe.com, for example, offers free 21-day online boot camps for beginning gardeners. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut (CTNOFA.org) is another local resource whose mission is to connect those involved with local sustainable food and land care with organic resources and education. Advances in technology—like those developed by FRESH Farms—allow apartment dwellers or urban farmers to grow abundantly, often offsetting their own food needs. To understand just how popular it is becoming to grow food in small spaces, check out Instagram hashtags like #apartmentgarden or #urbangarden. Since one cannot live on homegrown basil alone, most of us still have to make purchasing decisions to get grains, meats, fish, eggs and produce. Lloyd Allen, owner of the Double L Market in Westport, believes it is important to buy food from stores that pick food for its vitality rather than shelf life. He explains that all chain supermarkets hold their food in central warehouses where it sits for extended periods of time in refrigeration. The problem with that, he says, is that the food rapidly loses its nutrients and its all-important “vitality’ that gives it health-promoting properties. Allen is noticing that organic food prices are dropping and, in many cases, are almost in line with conventional prices. “If you’re buying better food and spending a little more on it, I believe you’ll end up going to the doctor less,” Allen says of organic foods still being more expensive. In addition to small local markets, community-supported agriculture programs, or CSAs, offer fresh, locally grown food directly from farms to the public. Vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, mushrooms and even coffee are just some of the products available through CSAs. For more information about how they work or how to participate in one active in your area, visit CTNOFA.org. Jessica Moon, MS, is a clinical nutritionist and the owner of Nutrition Rescue in Stamford. Connect with her at NutritionRescue.net. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 59.
healthykids
Moms can change the world by teaching their kids healthy cooking lessons at home and planting an organic garden together. Gardening Together
Mom’s Kitchen Counter Cooking School Kids That Learn to Cook Grow Up Eating Healthier by Jen Haugen
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nvision walking the supermarket aisles and picking up a favorite pasta sauce and breakfast cereal, then adding favorite fruits and vegetables to the cart. When we think about the grocery brands we buy or our go-to recipes, they tend to begin with one common thread— the influence of our mothers—our first teachers about food and cooking. In their Project EAT study, University of Minnesota researchers found that Mom has the biggest impact on the family’s eating habits and continues to play a significant role in our food choices, brands and how we cook, even influencing our ideas about health itself by their example.
Cooking Together
Most of us learn about cooking from our mothers, and one way moms have a tremendous impact on their children is by collaborating on recipes and cooking meals together. The idea of an at-home “kitchen counter cooking school” doesn’t focus on a hard and fast course
on cooking; instead, it’s a place where family members gather around the counter and cook together. This almost guarantees that meals will be healthier and more fun, affording a sense of ongoing adventure where kids can explore ingredients from around the U.S. and even the world. Consider creating a “United States of My Plate” project by preparing a recipe from each state during the summer, and then rating the recipes based on taste and flavor (startup tools are at ChooseMyPlate.gov). Our senses are engaged during food preparation activities. While chopping red peppers for a recipe, we are noting their appearance, feeling their texture, smelling their fragrance, hearing the sounds of preparation and likely tasting some on the spot. Involving more of our senses as we explore our food makes the whole activity more enticing. It helps to adopt Julia Child’s motto: “Learn how to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless and above all, have fun.”
The freshest ingredients come from our own gardens and produce the most delicious meals. Gardening as a family can change the way everyone looks at food through the simple act of planting, growing and harvesting. Knowing where everything on the plate comes from makes us more mindful of the energy it takes to grow food, and kids will naturally eat what they help grow. Moms can change the world—right in their own yard or patio—with the power of a traditional or urban garden. Just one square foot of organic gardening space can yield half a pound of fresh fruits and vegetables. A 300-square-foot garden can produce 150 pounds each summer; plus it provides a good workout. In 2011, I started a teaching garden at our local supermarket as a means of showing kids how to grow their own food, with the hope that it would also inspire their families. The goal was to plant the seeds for healthier habits that would last a lifetime. During its first four years, 52 percent of the students’ parents noted a more positive attitude about fruits and vegetables exhibited by their own children. After participating in the program, one mother shared her young daughter’s noteworthy query, “Mom, could you go to the store and get me some Swiss chard?” By planting gardens and creating kitchen counter cooking schools at home throughout America, our country could become victorious in ensuring that families are healthier. They will be eating healthier foods, working out in the garden and learning about food in a whole new way, all while connecting in a family activity. Jen Haugen, a registered and licensed dietitian and certified master gardener, is the author of The Mom’s Guide to a Nourishing Garden. She blogs at JenHaugen.com.
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here are three key ingredients to making a garden grow: soil, water and light. Although we are familiar with the typical garden variations to maximize that combination, thinking outside of the proverbial boxed garden can inspire us to take advantage of our home, land or neighborhood’s unique attributes. Utilizing a body of water on our property, collaborating to get the most out of our garden space and taking advantage of basement space are all possibilities for growing produce. Time is of the essence is a saying that applies directly to planting and harvesting. For those who struggle with finding the time to research, build and maintain what fits their land and food needs best, a Ridgefield-based company has stepped in with custom at-home garden designing and upkeep in Connecticut’s Fairfield and Litchfield Counties, and New York’s Westchester County. John Carlson, an entrepreneur and committed environmentalist certified by the Northeast Organic Farming
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Association (NOFA) as an accredited organic land care professional, started Homefront Farmers in 2011 with the goal of helping people produce their own food organically. Carlson originally thought the main part of his business would be design and construction. However, he found there was more business in the maintenance of clients’ gardens. “Most of our clients want to learn how to do it themselves; it’s not just people that don’t have time to maintain the garden but those who want to learn but are overwhelmed. We therefore try to plan our maintenance visits for when they are available to enable them to ask questions and work with us in the garden,” says Carlson. Homefront Farmers schedules weekly visits under a maintenance plan—similar to a lawn service—to do everything from planting to harvesting, depending on how much the client wants to be involved. The garden design/construction, the flat fee or ad hoc maintenance plan, and the number and types of plants are the
three cost variables for clients. Homefront Farmers’ gardeners utilize the best practices they have learned from managing hundreds of gardens and NOFA’s organic standards to create the crop rotation, companion planting and succession planting that best fit the client’s land, resources and wishes. With the program’s success and the increased need for organic seedlings, Homefront Farmers even recently purchased its own 11.5-acre plot in Redding to source some of its plant needs. Vincenzo Torcasio, owner of Bethel-based Aqua-Scapes (AquascapesPool.com), emphasizes utilizing plants to clear up water features on the property. “Excess nutrients outside—such as fertilizers in our lawns—get washed into our waterways. Plants have the ability to soak up these nuisances and phosphates,” he explains. If there are low nutrient levels in the water, by incorporating water plants that are high-nutrient seekers—such as cattails, irises or water mint—gardeners can achieve better filtration for better water quality. Torcasio, whose company creates natural pools utilizing the self-cleaning power of plants, says that a water garden can offer more than grasses to gardeners; banana trees, water lettuce, exotic flowers, lotuses, lilies and other plants can be included in designs. Creating a floating garden which uses the water beneath it and access to full sun is one of the ideas behind the Swale barge project (SwaleNY.org). The 110-foot by 30-foot floating edible forest is being collaboratively designed and tested by a nautical engineer, landscape architects, gardeners, artists, educators, students and the United States Coast Guard. Set to float up and down New York’s Hudson River, the barge will include a growing dome with tree crops such as quinces and apples, a range of food and herb production spaces, and an aquaculture component. The floating garden also will act as a river water purifier to help clean the waterway. If the water has nitrogen and phosphorus washing down from communities and factories upstream, the barge plants can pick up the extra nutrients. Acting on a much larger scale, the barge is mimicking the small water ecosystems Torcasio sets up for his clients’ pools and aquaspaces. By engineering a customized filtration system, the river water can also be desalinated and chemical and biological contaminants removed to help irrigate the Swale barge’s plants. One of the many collaborators on the SWALE project is Jono Neiger, a founding partner of the Massachusetts-based Regenerative Design Group with 25 years of experience in conservation, restoration, land stewardship, permaculture, and landscape planning and design. “One of our goals is to have an educational component and community outreach,” he says. “In addition to sharing surplus, we would like to do some commercial production and have the opportunity to grow the culinary or medicinal herbs that area restaurants, herbalists and health food stores would like to carry.” Neiger explains that, similar to designing a home garden, the barge’s planners are matchmaking by putting plants in combinations where they support each others’ activity. Some may excel at attracting pollinators, while others make more nutrients available or provide great ground cover that reduces weeding. With the barge’s shallower soil levels—
similar to rooftop gardens—plants such as Dutch clover or crimson clover could be used under a fruit tree for ground cover. Yarrow or bee balm would not only provide visual beauty but also act as a pollinator supporter. Moving production inside and year-round is the goal of Steve Domyan, who founded Metrocrops with his wife and partner, Nancy. The high-density urban indoor farm, which began in 2011 with the help of a USDA research grant in a University of Connecticut location, focuses on reliably growing indoor salad greens with the use of artificial light. Now located in an 8,000-square-foot factory space in Bridgeport, the growroom produces 400-500 pounds of baby arugula, dwarf kale and baby leaf lettuce a month for area restaurants and consumers across the country. “Our USDA-tested lettuce has been found to have twice the nutritional value of field-grown leaf lettuce because they are not dependent on weather conditions with set room temperatures and a lack of plant-eating insects,” explain Steve Domyan. Although Metrocrops utilizes a commercial-size tray system, there has been an increasing demand for the smaller tray models that are sold to individuals or small businesses. A $600 tabletop unit—which holds two 3-foot growing trays and utilizes LED growing lights—can produce ½ to one pound of salad greens a week with only 18 days until the first harvest. The seeds are grown on food-grade burlap with a pump circulating fertilized water every few hours through the water reservoir and plants. “Our dwarf kale leaves are thicker and softer—no bigger than a half-dollar—with a milder taste than farm kale. Our arugula is high quality and extremely spicy; vendors charge $45 a pound at farmers’ markets and they still sell out,” boasts Steve Domyan. With four- and eight-tray options available as well for $1200 and $2200, respectively, he has clients who have started to grow the salad greens to sell to local restaurants, netting several hundred dollars a month in some cases. These out-of-the-ordinary ways of growing our own food can provide inspiration to us to reach out for help with gardening, to look to our local waterways as a food source, and to bring our greenery inside for year-round production. You can get your hands in the dirt or in the water no matter which way you choose to garden. Ariana Rawls Fine is editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County and New Haven/Middlesex County. She resides in Stratford with her family.
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Mastering
YOGA
Photos By Roni Chastain
The yoga community in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties has never been more vibrant!
Aimee, Margaret and Sharifa prior to their teaching a fundraising class at Connecticut Power Yoga in Stamford
Stamford Yoga Jam Helps Young African Yoga Leaders by Ariana Rawls Fine
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irst created in 2007, Africa Yoga Project (AfricaYogaProject.org) focuses on both training unemployed or under-employed youth from marginalized communities in Africa as leaders and building healthy, wellness-promoting communities. Africa Yoga Project (AYP) was initially launched in several of Kenya’s poorest areas to study how yoga and movement modalities could be used to improve experiential learning and development. Currently more than 6,000 people take part in 300 weekly community yoga classes in 80 locations with over 200 trained yoga teachers. AYP’s theory of change states, “If marginalized youth complete AYP training—which includes leadership; physical, mental, and social health; and community building/
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membership—then their incomes, self-efficacy, health and positive civic engagement will increase.” Two local yoga teachers, Aimee and Tim Elsner of Connecticut Power Yoga (CTPowerYoga.com) in Stamford, were first introduced to AYP while at Baptiste Institute’s power yoga teacher trainings with AYP co-founders, Baron Baptiste and Paige Elenson. Since 2014, Aimee Elsner has mentored an AYP teacher from Nairobi Kenya. “We follow a program developed by AYP that goes through a variety of information and uses self inquiry, discussion and written assignments. The focus is on anything from personal finances to how to gather students for a yoga class,” she explains. On July 22 from 6-9pm, the fourth annual Yoga Jam (Yo gaJam2016.eventbrite.com) to benefit AYP will take place on the Harbor Point Boardwalk in Stamford. It is a night of shopping, malas, music, dance, yoga and celebration of community, sponsored by Exhale Spa Stamford and lululemon athletica Greenwich. Yoga Jam’s co-founder, Megan Kuczynski, and CT Power Yoga’s Aimee Elsner will teach yoga and all proceeds from the donation-based event will go to AYP.
Margret and Sharifa teaching to Future 5 students in Stamford “The idea to do the Yoga Jam was born out of a class I taught at Exhale Stamford with Katie Cingari, the store manager of Connecticut’s flagship lululemon athletica Greenwich...After class, Katie and I learned that we had both been to Africa independent of one another and share a deep love for the people and culture. That is when the brainstorm to do the Yoga Jam began,” explains Kuczynski. “What makes it special are all the unique vendors that come, the DJ, and Henry Kwame’ Jones, the master drummer of Infinite Roots who brings traditional African drumming to the practice.” As the AYP ambassadors in Fairfield County, the Elsners are challenging themselves and their community to raise $10,000 to support Africa Yoga Project. In addition to raising this money, they plan to travel with their family to Kenya as part of a service trip. Learn more and track the Elsner’s progress at tinyurl.com/h4jxwz9. For more information about Yoga Jam or to register for the event on July 22 at Harbor Point Boardwalk in Stamford, visit YogaJam2016.eventbrite.com.
yogabrief Naam Yoga Connecticut Open House
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uring the weekend of July 15-17, Naam Yoga Connecticut will hold free classes to celebrate Bethel during the Bethel Summer Sidewalk Festival. Information and demonstration classes will be offered Saturday 1-6pm at the studio and on the Municipal Center lawn from 11am-6pm. Special free evening classes, beginning at 7pm, will include a Candlelight Vinyasa on July 15, a Naam Sing-A-Long on July 16, and a Guided Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls on July 17. For more information, contact Linda Fiske at Info@NaamYogaCT.com or 203-730-2400. Location: Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel.
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ral remedies with plant extracts and even foods remain the go-to favorites for area skin and health experts.
EXFOLIATE THE SKIN; REVERSE AGING SUN DAMAGE
Natural Summer Beauty Fixes for Common Hot Weather Woes by Angela Pascopella
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ummer is here. Birds sing nearly non-stop. Boats motor by accompanied by shrill screaming from children. The sun never seems to set. We are once again exposed to the hot sun for hours on end. And we are reminded to cover up, don a broad-rimmed hat, apply broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen, and avoid direct sun exposure from about 10am to 2pm. “The sun is the biggest aging factor so we want to protect our skin from sun and stay hydrated,” says esthetician Holly Arrindell, who owns Medicinal Skin in Ridgefield. “The sun is getting stronger and we’re more aware of its harmful effects. And one of the largest cancers out there is skin cancer. The skin gives us a clue as to our general well-being.” Summer sun comes with positive results, too. This includes a big dose of vitamin D—which many Connecticut residents lack—and a feeling of wellness and overall health. “It promotes mental health and stress reduction, and creates opportunities to be physically active,” Arrindell says. Although we are bombarded by commercials, online pop-up ads and window shopping specials promising all manner of potions and products to restore and protect our skin and hair from heat, sun and insects, tried and true natu32
Fairfield County Edition
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As we move into hot weather, exfoliating the skin is vital. It is time to remove dead, dull and flaky skin and prior sunscreen build-up. Jennifer Ciamei, owner of Ciamei Wellness in Trumbull, suggests a full-body peel—which includes natural fruit acids—to remove and lighten sun damage from the skin. The natural process also includes dry brushing the skin so the skin is more absorbent to treatment. Ciamei then uses polishes, salts, powders and even mint leaves to pull out prior sun damage. An aromatherapy shower with avocado and oils massaged into the skin is another key part of restoring damaged skin from years of sun damage. In Guilford, Arlene Bouley’s salon offers an array of chemical-free products, which she discovered as a result of her having lymphoma. She traced her cancer diagnosis back to working in what she called a “toxic” salon environment. Healthy and happy now, Bouley opened Everlastings Organic Salon & Spa to share the natural wonders of beauty with others. “During the summer our skin tends to dry out,” says Bouley. “It’s important to rehydrate the skin with a facial.” Bottega Organica is a product line with a body scrub with sea salt and peppermint that provides anti-aging properties, says Siobhan McKinley, owner of Organachs Farm to Skin in Westport. Molecular geneticist Dr. Andrea Alimonti created the Bottega line. He identified a handful of plant extracts that prolong the lifespan of human cells by inhibiting cellular growth. In other words, he found the key to natural substances that slow the aging process, according to the Bottega website. And then there is Salt of the Earth Sanctuary in Woodbury and Saltana Cave in Ridgefield, places of healing and meditation inside a dark room, or “cave”, constructed with salt from the Himalayas. The room’s walls are made of salt slabs, and the ground is a deep layer of crushed salt—it feels like you’re walking on a beach. Saltana Cave owner Anna Husted says just breathing in the sodium chloride is healing. “And skin care pretty much includes what we eat, what emotions we process, and what products we put on our skin,” Husted says. Ciamei creates her own skincare concoctions for clients at her Trumbull practice, based on their skin type and knowing which plant products do what for skin. “It is important to know how your skin ages, how the different seasons affect skin, and how women crave different foods or drink more alcohol. There is more imbalance when we are out in the sun more often,” she says. “Your skin changes every season with your body type and age.” Ciamei suggests people stop using retinol creams and offers her own skin care products that include hyaluronic acid—which is a powerful humectants or a moisture-binding ingredient that keeps skin plump and young-looking— and vitamin C. And Ciamei custom formulates products for
sensitive or allergy-prone skin and people with cancer. Her caviar exfoliant polish—yes, real fish eggs mixed with the non-toxic mica mineral that gives skin a shimmery glow—can also polish the skin. Some common summer problems and solutions from area experts are offered below:
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SUNSCREEN Arrindell suggests using a lightweight skin moisturizer. Key ingredients to look for are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which protects skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, she says. Some natural products include Carefree Naturals, Naturopathica, Earth’s Best Mineral Sunblock and Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day and switch make-up brands to something mineral-based that has natural sun protection. She suggests Bare Minerals or Jane Iredale makeup lines. Suntegrity is another popular product line, says McKinley, who carries the line at Organachs Farm to Skin. The sunscreen acts as a primer underneath makeup, she adds, and includes sunflower and green tea. Saltana Cave carries a few products made by Ann Marie Gianni, including Sun Love. All natural, all vegan and non-GMO products from Dr. Mark Hyman’s line—including cleansers, sprays, scrubs and masks—are available at Saltana.
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145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT
Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com
SUNBURN When you get a burn, splash cold water or take a cold water bath to take the heat out, Arrindell suggests. Once the skin is cooled, apply aloe. Wait 72 hours before applying cream to hydrate and nourish the damaged skin. One of Arrindell’s favorite products for sunburn is Lavender & Aloe Cooling Cream by NYR Organic, for which Arrindell is a consultant and sells at her practice. She says it also works well for bug bites.
DRY HAIR AND SKIN Prophet Skincare co-owner Kelly Francisco uses facial serum this time of year. “The serums give you subtle moisturizing as well as anti-aging properties as the serums are smaller in molecular structure and easily absorbable,” says Francisco. She was motivated, along with her husband, to create their own skincare products due to her fear that harmful chemicals contribute to many health problems. Her organic skincare salon (BeautyHealthWellness.org), based in Westbrook, has a vitamin C facial serum and an anti-aging facial serum. Another product line McKinley suggests is de Mamiel, which has a body serum with eight different plant extracts. “It’s lightweight and intensely hydrating for the skin, and it looks great on legs as it adds some shimmer,” she explains. McKinley also suggests using the Voya line of products—which are seaweed based and have therapeutic properties—and the Voya’s Hydra Veil facial mask in particular to clean skin of sunscreen.
Salt Therapy and Wellness Center
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July 2016
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Summer activity means you should exfoliate twice a week, Arrindell suggests. Make sure to use a serum, face oil or balm under moisturizer to help combat dry skin. Before you dip in a pool with chlorine, first apply a skin balm to the face, neck and chest, Arrindell says. Wild Rose Beauty Balm or Baby Balm by NYR Organics is her recommendation. Ciamei suggests a natural quinoa spray to protect hair from the sun and boost shine and curls. At the Synergy Salon in New Canaan, owner Michelle Maestri-Murphy incorporates certified organic oils and natural ingredients into hair care services. Before a dip in pool or ocean, first coat hair with coconut oil or argan oil to protect it, she suggests. When you get home, rinse hair with a concoction of white vinegar, lemon juice and water to detox hair and rid it of chlorine or salt. Popular summer services at Synergy include a certified organic scalp and hair treatment that adds extra moisture and detoxifies the scalp. And an anti-aging smoothing, formaldehyde-free treatment can restore hair to a youthful state and remove frizz. Everlastings Organic Salon & Spa carries its own line of shampoos and conditioners made exclusively by a local ayurvedic practitioner, Bouley says. The organic shampoos and conditioners are free from harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens and formaldehyde.
PERSPIRATION Many conventional deodorants contain aluminum, says Bouley of Everlastings. Aluminum has been associated with health issues including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, bone disorders and kidney problems, she adds. A natural deodorant brand is Ursa Major, which is also highly effective, suggests McKinley. Or use Meow Meow Tweet based in the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York, which has two deodorant sticks: lemon eucalyptus and lavender bergamot.
Try cutting down on caffeine and spicy foods, and drink plenty of fluids. And in early afternoon, freshen up using wipes and reapplying deodorant, Arrindell suggests.
BUG AND INSECT BITES AND RASHES Some DEET-free and non-toxic remedies can keep the bugs away, including California Baby, BuzzAway and Bite Blocker insect repellent, Arrindell says. DEET is in most repellants on the market and is highly toxic, as outlined in Francisco’s book Warning! Dangerous Ingredients (ProphetSkinCare.com/Product/PSC-WDI-Book). Ciamei creates her own natural bug repellant with carrot oil, lemongrass and bergamot, which can be sprayed on clothes and skin. And Zoe Organics offers another insect repellant, McKinley suggests. Francisco in Westbrook sums it up best: “Be mindful of what you put on your body and enjoy summer.” Angela Pascopella is a 26-year veteran of journalism. She is also an editor for a national, monthly trade publication. Organic, chemical-free, pesticide-free and no animal testing is the way to go with products these days. People are choosing such products over conventional ones. Esthetician Holly Arindell suggests: Dr. Alkaitis, including Soothing Gel and Organic Nourishing Treatment Oil Dr. Hauschka, including Soothing Mask and Rose Cream Jurlique, including Herbal Recover Serum and Moisture Replenish Mask Naturopathica, including Pumpkin Enzyme, Lavender SPF Cream and Aloe Mask NYR Organic, including Wild Rose Beauty Balm, White Tea Eye Gel and Calendula Cream
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natural awakenings
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July 2016
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practitionerprofiles Natural Beauty Spa
Medicinal Skin
Claudia Matos, Owner 4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-502-8503 Natural_BeautySpa@hotmail.com CTNaturalBeautySpa.com
Holly Arrindell, Owner and Therapist 412 Main St, Ste 5, Ridgefield 203-244-5771 MedicinalSkin@gmail.com MedicinalSkin.com Facebook.com/MedicinalSkin Twitter.com/MedicinalSkin Instagram.com/MedicinalSkin
Practice/Business Summary or services offered: In a beautiful and peaceful setting, we offer comprehensive and varied facial rejuvenation packages. Packages include botanical skin care, cutting edge technology for skin tightening, massage and lymphatic drainage, cellulite treatments, eye brow design microdermabrasion, laser hair removal and nail services. Packages can also include acupuncture facial rejuvenation. We always offer a free eyebrow design with each service and have seasonal packages for most services. What first drew you to this profession? I love helping people improve their self esteem by helping them look better. My motto has always been, “My goal is your well-being.” What do you specialize in? I specialize in all medical aesthetics, like laser hair removal, peelings and permanent eyebrow design. Credentials/certifications? I am licensed medical aesthetician and in the process of becoming an RN. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? My enthusiasm for enhancing an individual’s beauty and self-esteem has not waned in my decade of practice. I look forward to working with each client. Are you planning any practice enhancements or changes in 2016? We recently did a complete renovation of the entire spa to further increase its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? I have continued to expand my professional credentials. In 2017, I will obtain my RN degree. That will enable me to increase my repertoire of services offered. 36
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: Medicinal Skin provides therapeutic facials, massage therapy, waxing and lash/brow tinting. Skin is a reflection of your body and mind. Make it the best it can be with total wellness for the body and soul. What drew you to this work as a profession? After more than two decades working in wellness and beauty, Holly has found a passion for holistic health, blending massage and skin care to enhance natural beauty. This union makes her treatments truly relaxing and more than skin deep. Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Holly is licensed in esthetics and massage therapy in New York and Connecticut. She originally trained in England and furthered her education in America earning her licenses. She has continued to take classes to advance her skills and knowledge in an ever-growing industry. What is unique about your services and/or the products that you offer? Medicinal Skin specializes in therapeutic facial skin care and customizes every treatment to address any client concerns. We work closely with other health and wellness practitioners so as we can provide the very best care. We use safe, non-toxic products. How has your work/business evolved and/or what new products will you be offering in summer 2016? By the fall, we will be offering workshops and classes related to health and wellness. We have also introduced Reiki to our practice to complement our facials. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Holly and her associate Valerie Albanesi Swenson are primarily skin care therapists who provide the best treatments to Medicinal Skin’s clients with years of experience and a passion for what we do.
Fresh Organic Salon
Organachs Farm to Skin
190 Rt. 117 Bypass, Bedford Hills, NY 914-242-1928 • FreshOrganicSalon.com
Siobhan D. McKinley, Owner 15 Post Rd West, Westport 203-221-0435 SDM@OrganachsFarmtoSkin.com OrganachsFarmtoSkin.com Facebook.com/OrganachsFarmtoSkin.com Store Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday noon-4pm, closed Mondays
Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Fresh Organic salon is committed to using the purest, safest, cuttingedge technology as well as natural and organic ingredients. Our hair and scalp treatments promote health hair growth. Our Fresh Team of caring professionals specialize in organic hair color, hair design, body waves, keratin, makeup and brow services. We are also available for fashion shows, photo shoots, lectures and networking and charity events. What drew you to this work as a profession? I was born into the world of beauty and raised in an artistic environment with talented hairstylists as parents. I fell in love with the exciting world of beauty, fashion and art. My passion for opening a Fresh Organic salon is a health choice with all the toxic chemicals I was previously exposed to. I am no longer sick at the end of my day. Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I am most known for my blonding techniques, fabulous blowouts and multi-dimensional color customization for my guests. I take note of scalp hair needs. I am a certified regional educator for organic color, a master stylist, and a certified consultant for the American Cancer Society’s Look Good Feel Better program. What is unique about your services and/or the products that you offer? We are literally fresh. We bring a farm-tochair experience with our holistic approach for inner and outer beauty and wellness. Everything we use and recommend is nontoxic. You will find an extensive retail area with natural and organic haircare, skincare and makeup products that are gluten and cruelty-free. We offer organic keratins and body waves as well. Eco chic best describes who we are and what we do. How has your work/business evolved and/or what new products will you be offering in summer 2016? I opened my first natural salon in 1989. But through my research and experiences, I felt compelled to create awareness that beauty doesn’t have to be hazardous to your health. In preparation for summer 2016, we are in the process of reformulating our solutions for hair, skin, makeup and body, including scalp treatments. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Our eco-friendly salon is a gathering place for like-minded people to meet and mingle. Our vision is minimize the negative impact on the environment and the safety of our guest.
Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Organachs Farm to Skin offers facials, eyebrow shaping and professional makeup application by appointment. We offer organic skincare with products that contain antioxidants, essential fatty acids, procollagen extracts, vitamins and minerals to help reduce the signs of aging by toning, smoothing, moisturizing and stimulating skin cells. Organic skincare is formulated to deeply nourish your skin and aid its natural ability to heal and repair. Our skincare lines for the face, body/bath, hair, makeup and gifts are suitable for all skin types and are available for women, men and children of all ages. What drew you to this work as a profession? After educating myself on the lack of regulation in the cosmetic industry, I was shocked to learn about what I had been really putting on my skin. It made sense to change my way of purchasing skincare and cosmetics. I researched the chemicals that are used in everyday skincare, hair, body/bath and cosmetic products and quickly realized that I was putting known carcinogens and hormone disruptors on my skin, all of which takes 26 seconds to be absorbed into my bloodstream. What is unique about your services and/or the products that you offer? Organachs Farm to Skin is the first of its kind luxury organic skincare and makeup boutique in Connecticut. We offer a selection of organic beauty brands from the U.S. and Europe. Our brands include VOYA, Bottega Organica, Dr. Alkaitis, Earth Tu Face, Pai, De Mamiel, Ursa Major, Nat’Aura, Holos, Zoe Organics, Meow Meow Tweet, rms beauty, Vapour Organic Beauty, Tenoverten nail polish and 100% Pure. They have been featured in top beauty publications, websites and beauty blogs. Each brand has their own unique organic and natural ingredients that provide a healthy, toxin-free choice in skincare and beauty. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? I am impassioned to inform other women about self-education. It is also important to start young girls and boys on a chemical-free path to skincare and hair care products. eNaturalAwakenings.com
July 2016
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fitbody
FACIAL FITNESS Exercises to Tone Your Face and Neck by Kathleen Barnes
G
ravity takes its toll as years pass, and many women find themselves bemoaning crow’s feet, frown lines and turkey necks that make them look older than they feel. Experts point to the loss of “fat pads” in the cheeks, bone loss around the eye sockets and cheekbones and overall weak muscles as potential contributors to facial aging. Natural exercise programs designed to reverse these unpleasant signs of aging comprise a new fitness-for-beauty trend. “Face and neck muscles somehow have been left out of mainstream fitness programs,” observes Denver esthetician and massage therapist Grace Mosgeller, who addresses this void with her series of eight FaceFitnez audio and video exercises. “If you tone the muscles of your face and neck, the skin attached to those muscles firms and tones as well, creating a natural youthful look.” Muscular stress—the good kind— is at the core of facial fitness, says Mosgeller. She cite’s Wolff’s Law, a well-known medical theory that bone grows and remodels in response to the tension or muscle engagement put on it. “Regular facial exercise works the muscles to correct the loss of both
muscle tone and bone density and build collagen. It might be called the equivalent of push-ups, pull-ups and abdominal tucks for the face.” Carolyn Cleaves, owner of Carolyn’s Facial Fitness, in Seabeck, Washington, near Seattle, a former college professor, developed a facial exercise program for herself upon detecting early signs of aging. With the help of two primary care physicians, she designed a routine that includes 28 basic exercises that target all 57 facial muscles. “As we get older, we lose the underlying layer of fat just beneath the skin, and as a result, we look old and tired,” says Cleaves. She agrees that exercising the face actually helps rebuild lost bone, enlarges the muscles and also builds collagen. A study from the University of Rochester, in New York, confirms that loss of bone mass can start in women as early as age 40. It starts in men 16 to 25 years later. Mosgeller’s facial exercises work to fade wrinkles and lines and firm up sagging flesh, yielding visible results in as little as two weeks of dedicated training. She says, “Within six to nine months, it’s possible to look five to 10 years younger than when you started.”
Face Workouts Find Mosgeller’s FacialFitnez exercise video menu at Tinyurl.com/MosgellerFaceExercises and more info at FaceFitnez.com. Sample Cleaves’ video series at CarolynsFacialFitness.com/free-facial-exercises and Tinyurl.com/CleavesFaceExercises. 38
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Her claims are verified by Dr. Carol Lipper, in Denver, who states, “I’ve done the exercises and they work. The trouble is compliance. It’s a lot of work.” She confirms that she saw improvement in her droopy eyelids after just two or three weeks of adhering to Mosgeller’s workouts. “It seems that every three months or so, I see another leap in results and a younger look,” adds Cleaves of those using her program. Here are a few crucial areas to target, with just a few of these experts’ recommended remedies. Cleaves’ Crow’s Feet Eliminator: Place fingertips on top of the head, thumbs resting near the corners of the eyes. Shut eyes tightly and slide thumbs toward the temples for a count of five. Repeat 10 times. Mosgeller’s Rx for Droopy Eyelids: Place index finger on top of a closed eyelid, and then lift fingers up and slightly to the outside. Blink hard and hold. It’s preventive, as well as curative, says Mosgeller, so those over 45 should repeat this 100 times a day, while younger individuals should repeat 20 to 50 times a day. Mosgeller’s Frown Line Eraser: Pull brows apart with fingers and hold for two seconds. Repeat 50 to 100 times up to six times per week. This is meant to relax and tone the muscles, not build them. Cleaves’ Turkey Neck Buster: Tilt the head back slightly. With palm facing the neck, grasp under the chin with a wide-open hand and slowly slide hand down to the collarbone; hold there while counting to 10. Repeat five times daily. Kathleen Barnes is author and publisher of many natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
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naturalpet
The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!
Feeding the Whole Horse Eschewing Supplements in Favor of Whole Food Diets by Jennifer McDermott
I News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call
203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com
40
Fairfield County Edition
n the beginning the horse lived on grass, ambling along, only lifting his head from his food source for unfamiliar sounds or herd discord. Given the variety we humans as omnivores eat, the seemingly simplistic diets of the much larger herbivore horse seems like it must be deficient. However, when observed fending for themselves in a natural pasture, one that may not reflect the idyllic manicured fields of “horse country”, a much broader range of plants is eaten, driven by their personal needs. Such free choice is not always available to the domesticated animal so our role as caregiver means we must provide the best diet possible to fulfill their needs. As we continue to learn about our own diets and what benefits us, researchers are also studying the nutritional needs of the domesticated animals in our lives, giving birth to a whole industry of formulas and supplements. There are a few pioneers in the industry who have looked more deeply and found closest to nature is best. In this article we first briefly touch upon what a trickle feeder’s digestive system looks like, and then see how we may complement this complex system with close-to-nature feeds to best support the horse’s overall health.
The Horse’s Digestive System The horse’s stomach and 70-foot small intestine comprise only 38 percent of
natural awakenings
the animal’s digestive tract’s capacity. However, when the food reaches the cecum and large intestine, the work begins and we won’t see Monday’s meal until Wednesday. The stomach and small intestine prepare the food (enzyminatic digestion) for the massive absorption that occurs in the cecum and large intestine. It is in the cecum, a 4-foot long vat that holds over eight gallons, where most of the fermentation process happens. Next, the food travels to the hind gut for further fermentation and maximum absorption. In short, nature has created a system that can glean fiber, protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and enzymes from a blade of grass. So how is it that we are seeing more and more special needs diets out there for equines? Could the over-processed (kills enzymes), synthetic (lacks animal grade), by-product-based (unfit for humans), sugar-filled commercial feeds and our unnatural feeding schedule be the culprit? Most likely.
The Role of Supplements for Horses Realizing the benefits of eating food closest to its natural form, equine nutritionists have backed away from commercial feeds and gone back to the basics with a new awareness of content based on what we have seen
in humans. These whole food diets served alongside the unending hay bag give the horse what they need daily. Any supplementation required by the horse’s particular exercise schedule or work load is also given in the whole food form as well. Here are the most beneficial and why. Whole oats: Excellent amino acid profile and supports the proper function of the gut with beta glucan Rice bran oil (GMO-free): Supports the gut with gamma oryzanol, a powerful anti-ulcerative, and helps build lean muscle Ground flax: Provides omega 3 fatty acids for a healthy coat and hoof, supports the immune system and is anti-inflammatory Rosehips: This mega dose of vitamin C for the immune system also works to build healthy capillaries Green cabbage: Delivers the enzymes L-glutamin to aid in the repair and health of the intestinal lining Sunflower seeds: Tendons, bones and the immune system benefit from the copper found in these seed while the high essential omega 6 fatty acids ben-
efit the coat and hooves Peas and lentils: Support the topline with added lysine for the system Papaya: Contains papain, an enzyme that aids in the digestion of proteins Spirulina: A powerhouse as it contains every essential amino acid as well as vitamins and minerals Organic yeast: Aids in the feeding of good bacteria in the gut Chia Seed: A potent antioxidant that is high in potassium, calcium niacin and omega 3 fatty acid in addition to being a healer and preventer of ulcers Coconut meal: Great for metabolic issues and the only natural, GM-free, low NSC (non-structured carbohydrate) feed high in trainable energy available Coconut oil: Nature’s richest source of lauric acid, which has powerful antimicrobial effects. Great for the insulin-resistant horse as it metabolizes differently than other oils by providing non-glucose ready energy Quite simply, the key with the whole food source is the increased bioavailability of vitamins and nutrients and the reduced stress on the digestive system. Would these seeds, oils
and foods be the available choices of our horses’ wild ancestors? Some yes, some no, but evolution dictates we grow and change with the times. We now know through scientific research what our ancestors felt and learned anecdotally through the ages. We must now use this information again so that our horses thrive. Sources for more information: Digestion: NRC Plus Nutrition, Eleanor Kellon, VDM Feeds: BioStar (BioStarUS.com), Crypto-Aero (CryptoAero.com), Genesis (Organic-Horse-Feed.com) Jennifer McDermott’s exploration of horse energy began while rehabilitating horses in Fairfield County over 14 years ago. With her equine Reiki practice and passion for preventative health, she has embraced the three-pronged approach of foundational rehabilitation: nutrition, bodywork and positive reinforcement teaching. She now lives in Guilford and devotes herself to the rehabilitation of the Off the Track Thoroughbred. Connect with her at JenniferMcDermott@mac.com.
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Sweets By Other Names Sugar is Hidden in Many Pet Foods by Mary Oquendo
W
ith increasing rates of diabetes and obesity among pets in this country, it is important to be more aware of the amount of added sugar in their diet. This would be much easier to spot if manufacturer’s simply put the words “sugar” or “artificial sugar” on the label but – as with food labeled for human consumption – the pet food industry gets a bit tricky with the language it uses. Adding sweetener can be a cheap way for the manufacturers to make food palatable. Because the manufacturers are often not using quality ingredients, pets are less likely to eat the food without added sugar. Since the sweeter food tastes good, the pet eats more. Real sugar can be dangerous in excessive amounts, but artificial sugars can be even more dangerous. This leads us to why manufacturers hide sugar behind unfamiliar names. A large part of the reason may lie in not wanting consumers to see how much sugar really is in the product. Here is a list of 50 commonly known “other” names of sugar commonly found in food for humans:
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Fairfield County Edition
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• Malts: malt, barley, malt syrup, maple or diastatic • Sugars: Barbados, beet, brown, cane, confectioner’s, castor, date, demerara, free flowing brown, grape, golden, icing, invert, powdered or raw • Syrups: buttered, high fructose corn (also known as HFCS), corn, corn syrup solids, carob or golden • Juices: fruit, cane, dehydrated cane or fruit juice concentrate • Other names: Caramel, Dextran, Dextrose, Diatase, Ethyl maltol, Fructose, Galactose, Glucose, Glucose solids, Honey, Lactose, Maltodextrin, Maltose, Mannitol, Molasses, Muscovado, Panocha While it is unlikely for a pet manufacturer to add artificial sugar as the dangers are well documented, human product manufacturers do. Artificial sugars cause an unsafe drop in blood sugar in pets and even small amounts can be deadly. Human product manufacturers are not bound by pet safety protocol. So the foods they produce are designed for human consumption and are considered safe for people, but not necessarily for pets. As many of us use human-grade products for our pets, the responsibility is on us to check labels. Dangerous sweeteners can be found in many over the counter medications that used to be safe for pets, such as children’s allergy medications and fiber products. Your veterinarian may not even be aware that artificial sugars have now been added to these over the counter products. Artificial sugars have almost as many names as sugar does. These include: Acesulfame Potassium, Acesulfame K, Ace K or Ace, Advantame, Alitame or Aclame, Aspartameacesulfate salt or Twinsweet, Cyclamate, calcium cyclamate, cyclamic acid, sodium cyclamate, Sucaryl or Colognan, Erythritol, erythrite, meso-erythritol, tetrahydroxybutane, Zsweet, Wholesome Sweeteners, Organic Zero, Zerose, Now Foods, NuNaturals or Swerve Natural Sweeteners *, Isomalt, isomaltitol, hydrogenated isomaltulose, DiabetiSweet, ClearCut or Decomalt *, Maltitol, D-maltitol, dried maltitol syrup, hydrogenated glucose syrup, hydrogenated high maltosecontent glucose syrup, hydrogenated maltose, maltitol syrup powder, Lesys, Maltisweet or SweetPearl *, Lactitol, lactit, lactobiosit, lactositol or Lacty, Mannitol, mannite or d-mannitol, Neohesperidine dihydrochalcone, Neohesperidin DC or NHDC, Neotame, Saccharin, sodium saccharin, calcium saccharin, acid saccharin, potassium saccharin, Sweet’N Low, Nectasweet, Cologran, Heremesetas, Sucrayl, Sucron, Sugar twin or Sweet 10, Sorbitol, D-Glucitol, D-Glucitol syrup, Sorbit, D-sorbitol or Sorbol, Sucralose, 4,1’,6’-trichlorogalactosucrose, Splenda or Nevella, Xylitol Ultimately, it is our responsibility as pet owners to check labels and ensure the products our pets ingest are safe and healthy. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the co-owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 20. *Naturally derived, but artificial sugars are commonly added to it
petresourceguide 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
PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org
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 PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org
PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD LLC PO Box 794, New Milford 603-706-0739 Paul@PaulsCustomPetFood.com PaulsCustomPetFood.com
RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org
Nfutrition is your pet’s best friend. We c r e a t e h a n d m a d e , p e rsonalized pet food and treats with ingredients that are organic, free of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, added growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics and preservatives. Food is handmade in small batches. See website for details about ordering or customizing for your pet’s special needs.
STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com
BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org
PET NUTRITION
TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) • TailsOfCourage.org
VETERINARY SERVICES
WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org
NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org
HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING MARY OQUENDO
203-994-5308 MaryOquendo.com Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com
Pet grooming in a relaxed oneon-one environment in your driveway by a leader in the Prep Work Work •• Sanding Sanding •• Taping Taping PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) Prep holistic grooming industry. Mary Patching • Repairs • Carpentry Patching • Repairs • Carpentry 504 Main Ave, Norwalk also offers Reiki and crystal Environmentally Friendly Environmentally Friendly 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org therapy for your beloved pets.
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 41.
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greenliving
DITCH THE HOTEL Frugal Lodging Options from Airbnb to House Swapping by Avery Mack
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ravel is changing as vacationers increasingly value unique experiences over standard tourist fare. In addition to the option of couch surfing (Tinyurl.com/CouchsurfingAdventure), more people are making the most of house rentals, swapping and sitting, plus various home stays via Airbnb (Airbnb. com). All expand options for affordable journeys tailored to their needs. Airbnb accommodations range from private studios to family-sized homey spaces, encompassing tiny houses, treehouses, geodesic domes, yurts, container cars, caves, lighthouses, working ranches, castles and luxury carriage houses. With 2 million listings
for 34,000 cities in 190 countries, 600 million people have found their ideal getaway through the San Franciscobased company since it launched in 2008. Published feedback, including comment books at the rental sites, provides assurance for visitors. When hosts aren’t on the premises, they are available as needed by guests. Mary Bartnikowski, publisher and photographer at Vagabond Travel Photography Magazine (Vagabond TravelMag.com), has visited 32 countries so far, staying in homes, ashrams, temples, boats and apartments. “My best Airbnb rental was camping for two weeks in a Hawaii home garden next to
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a big tree; my host forgot to mention the big, friendly dog,” she says, recalling an unexpected wake-up greeting. Hosts find providing rentals a way to monetize unused space, meet new people and showcase their area. Beth Everett, an Oregon author, offers an Airbnb detached backyard studio space. “We moved from New Jersey to Portland two years ago, and the extra income lets me stay home to write,” she says. House swapping is another option for soaking in local color. Preparation is key and includes a notebook’s worth of helpful details shared in advance, as well as onsite. Most exchanges involve a series of Skype sessions for questions and answers. Leasa Sanders McIntosh, an executive recruiter, swapped her Denver home for a month in Kona, Hawaii. “We traded cars and joked that we even traded cats. We swapped three times before they moved to the mainland.” This summer, she’ll swap to be at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Susan May, an established advocate of organ donation from Cartersville, Georgia, traded homes and cars to take her four teens to Europe. “We visited 13 countries, spending two weeks in Wales and three in Germany. We saw fireworks in Paris on Bastille Day and joined the Highland Games, in Scotland,” she says. “I want our family to be more than just tourists passing through Westernized hotels with no real contact with local folks. Exchanging homes is an ideal way for a family to travel inexpensively.” Housesitting fan and senior technical recruiter Rachel Burke, of Santa Monica, California, has stayed for free in London, Cape Cod and Palm Springs, California, using TrustedHouseSitters. com. “This way, homeowners can travel without leaving pets in a kennel while unpaid housesitters avoid hotel expenses and gain a chance to be a native in a different location,” she says. “Last year, I watched a five-story home in a London suburb while the owners visited Portugal for three weeks.” She shares shots of her favorite spots at Tinyurl.com/FunLondonPhotos. Burke combines housesitting with Airbnb by renting her apartment when she travels. “A couple of years ago, I paid $1,800 for a two-week trip to Thailand
and charged $125 a night for my apartment, making my trip to Thailand free,” she relates. Burke lives near the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach and Hollywood, all prime destinations. With 50,000 listings in 150 countries, Homestay.com tweaks the Airbnb experience in that hosts are more involved in their guests’ local adventures. Cuba currently tops desired destinations for U.S. travelers, with most rentals in the capital, Havana, the nearby artistic enclave of Trinidad or rural Vinales. Many hosts arrange airport transfers, tours, visits to attractions, bicycle rentals, restaurant reservations and transportation to other Cuban locales. Hosts usually speak several languages, including English, and may even teach guests to play Cuban-style dominoes. Eco-friendly homestays are available, too, ranging from a private Nicaraguan island independently powered by solar panels and a Spanish farmhouse off the grid to an organic farm in Thailand or eco-lodge in South Africa. An Austin, Texas, listing notes, “Everything is reclaimed, recycled or repurposed. We have an infused honey business. We’re laid-back and practice good karma and a healthy, drama-free lifestyle.” Homestay’s average nightly rental is $46. While some guests are students, the majority are 35 and older, vacationing on substantial salaries; they simply prefer the local color. Vacations needn’t be expensive, but they should be memorable. The biggest challenge may be deciding where to go first.
We don’t let wood waste in landfills; we take the wood to get recycled.
Connect with Avery Mack, a freelance writer, via AveryMack@mindspring.com.
BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS by Avery Mack
R
ick Steves, host of the long-running Public Television series Rick Steves’ Europe and Edmonds, Washington, bestselling author of 40 European travel books, encourages Americans to travel as “temporary locals”. Here’s some of his helpful advice. 4 Start by searching HomeExchange.com, HomeLink. org and Intervac-HomeExchange.com for listings, tips and assistance.
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4 Contact the host well before the trip. Be clear about what’s expected and what to do if there’s a hiccup. Triple check the key’s location and how to open the door, including any alarm system. Agree on phone and Internet charges. 4 Share information on where to shop and instructions for appliances and maintenance services. Ask about any quirks a loaned car might have and make sure insurance covers another driver. 4 Information about local sights and good restaurants is appreciated. Source: Adapted from RickSteves.com
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healingways
Make Time for Downtime
Chilling Out Revives Body and Soul by April Thompson
H
ere’s something to add to our todo list: nothing. Americans today work more hours than ever before, foregoing hardearned vacation days and spending more time with electronic devices than with friends and family. The temptation and pressure to do more at the expense of needed rest are great, but failing to take time out to recharge our minds and bodies can have serious consequences, according to experts. Downtime is most acutely needed in the workplace. In a survey of nearly 20,000 workers, The Energy Project and Harvard Business Review found that 59 percent of them were physically exhausted, emotionally drained, distracted and lacking purpose. Headquartered in Yonkers, New York, with offices in Europe and Australia, The Energy Project has helped hundreds of businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, create healthier, happier and higher-performing workplaces. The company takes its cues from elite athletes that carefully build rest and recovery periods into their training schedules. “Just as your body needs sleep and food to function optimally, so does your mind and spirit,” says Annie Perrin, an executive vice president with the project. There’s a mounting body of neuro46
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logical research to buttress the analogy. Important assimilation of learning and “meaning making” occurs in the resting brain, according to Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, Ed.D., associate professor of education, psychology and neuroscience at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, and author of Emotions, Learning, and the Brain. When our minds are allowed to wander, they engage a network of interacting brain regions that together are thought to play a key role in building our ability for inward reflection and recollection, known as the default mode network. Immordino-Yang’s research suggests that such activation during restful moments is positively associated with the recalling of memories, envisioning the future and even developing a moral foundation. “This network seems to be more engaged when we aren’t actively gathering information or working on an external goal,” remarks Immordino-Yang. Zoning out on TV or video games doesn’t produce the same brain benefit because, “It’s about looking inward rather than outward,” she says. The default network does engage when introspection occurs during nurturing social interaction, such as while enjoying a reflective conversation with friends or family. She recommends banning technology and other
natural awakenings
distractions during periods spent in activities that bring joy and meaning so that we are present in a mindful way. The Energy Project ushers clients through a comprehensive energy audit, using exercises to expose specific personal habits that lead to diminishing returns in both work and play time. In one exercise, workers are asked to rank current incoming emails from one to five, with the highest number equating to, “I need to respond immediately.” Most rate nearly no fives, says Perrin, a realization that has helped many people change their email habits. While change can be hard, Perrin suggests creating new, healthy rituals through repetition, which taps into the brain’s desire for automaticity. For example, she advises workers to schedule “renewal breaks” every 90 minutes after completing a block of high-priority tasks. “If you’ve been sitting, move; if the mind has been active, do something to quiet it, like meditating or simply closing your eyes.” She also suggests finding workers to buddy up with and schedule mutual breaks to help support and hold each other accountable. Immordino-Yang suggests that another practice to maximize the value of downtime is to combine it with exercise. “A walk can be rejuvenating,” she says. “While the body is engaged, the mind is free to wander.” The Energy Project calls on managers to model these downtime activities for their employees. Some companies have instituted policies that limit sending email from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., as well as during weekends and vacations, so staffers don’t feel compelled to read and respond to keep up with work. Setting limits is even more crucial for young people with minds and habits that are especially malleable. “I see teenagers taking their phones into the bathroom or bed to text in the middle of the night. Parents need to put a stop to this,” counsels Immordino-Yang. “The brain needs uninterrupted rest to work at its best.” Learning that being a productive employee or an emotionally available parent requires giving ourselves a break and gives us permission to rest. We find that downtime is not just good for ourselves, but also for our families and workplaces. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.
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umi EcoSolutions, an environmentally conscious manufacturer of biodegradable and sustainable products based in Westport, has launched its new official website, YumiEco.com. The new website enables consumers to buy direct rather than through a brick-and-mortar reseller. “Many consumers do not realize that plastic products are harmful to our health. Plastics use 8 percent of all the oil produced worldwide, are 15 percent of all solid waste in landfills, and last more than 1,000 years on earth,” says Virginia P’an, president of Yumi EcoSolutions. “Our mission to create a healthier and better world for you…and future generations with safe, natural products.” All Yumi EcoSolutions’ products are made from renewable and sustainable plant materials to replace harmful, petroleum-based plastics. For more information, visit YumiEco.com.
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he Claneil Foundation, a private family foundation based in Philadelphia, recently selected Community Plates’s Executive Director Kevin Mullins and the national food rescue organization as recipients of the Emerging Leaders Fund grant (tinyurl.com/CommunityPlates). Mullins was selected from a competitive pool of 75 nominations representing emerging organizations in the Mid Atlantic/New England region. The organization will receive $200,000 in general operating funds over four years, and as the organization’s leader, Mullins will have access to up to $10,000 for professional development. “This grant is important validation of all the energy so many have invested in establishing a new type of Kevin Mullins solution to American food insecurity,” says Mullins. “In addition, it is a real affirmation of our vision to end hunger in the United States through direct transfer food rescue. We are honored to be recognized alongside previous innovative leaders and organizations as well as our three other cograntees this year.” Originally started in Fairfield County, Community Plates now operates in seven locations across the country: Fairfield County, New Haven and Hartford, Connecticut; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio; and New Orleans, Louisiana. There are plans to establish seven more sites by the end of 2016. Founded in 2011, the organization has rescued 11.8 million meals and saved 18.1 million pounds of food from landfills, at an estimated value of $30.7 million. For more information, visit CommunityPlates.org.
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Fairfield County Edition
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Kitchen Medicine
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1084 Post Road, Darien • 24 Railroad Place, Westport www.olivettect.com • (203) 621-0643
Modern Health with Ancient Roots
here is so much change, color, flavor and medicine growing this time of year. From our local wild foods to farms and gardens, we are rich in delicious medicine! The salad greens, sautéing greens, asparagus, rhubarb, strawberries, wood sorrel, sheep sorrel, purselane, wild spinach, walking onions, parsley, cilantro, dill, mint, thyme, oregano, tarragon, savory, sage and the beloved garlic scapes, are all in full swing. By the time this publication is out, there will be even more summer foods available. When we look at the vitamins, minerals and higher order compounds in our local food, we realize it truly is our best medicine. Seasonal eating means eating what is available in our surrounding communities in order to take advantage of the plant medicine at its peak. Summer is the time to build our health and energy back up to its full potential in order to work and play hard. The fall is the time to harvest and eat warm root vegetables and herbs that tend to strengthen the digestive and respiratory systems just in time to help prepare us for the winter’s onset of colds and flu. Winter comes and we crave heavier, fattier foods to get us through the cold and dark days. Spring comes with those first bitter greens helping to stimulate the liver and digestion, easing us back into the warm abundance of summer. If we are paying attention, it’s a beautiful and well-orchestrated seasonal dance. Traditional cultures that rely on plant medicine as their primary source of healing understand this connection and use local food and herbs to make teas, tonics, brews, syrups and remedies. These are powerful recipes that have been handed down through generations to keep communities alive and healthy. These time-tested formulas that come to this country with first-generation immigrants are frequently forgotten by the time the second generation has been melded into our Western society. There is, however, a resurgence in the U.S. to remember these old ways and to put a fresh spin on it. People are learning what we like to call “Kitchen Medicine,” the use of food and herbs to prevent or lessen what ails you. This includes honey infused with herbs (wild or garden-raised) to make tea, broths with herbs, mushrooms and vegetables, elderberry elixir, spicy garden herbs and peppers, all to create/recreate delicious kitchen medicine.
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One of the remedies we have fallen in love with this year is the switchel-a drink both tart and sweet. These drinks were given to those who needed more than water to stay hydrated and continue a day of hard physical work. See the recipe in the sidebar for the hibiscus mint switchel that we developed at TIOSN. Making food and herbs our medicine is one of the most powerful things we can do to for our health care. Finding local sources for our food or learning to grow some of your own better assures peak flavor and potency. Ask your elders if they remember any of these old remedies and write them down. These are fascinating and valuable pieces of our health history. The time has come to learn these remedies again to ensure they are not lost to future generations. For information on how you can learn about more kitchen medicine, foraging, culinary skills, sustainable gardening and seasonal nutrition, visit The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition at TIOSN.com or call 860-764-9070. See ad, page 63.
Hibiscus Mint Switchel Recipe Makes one quart of hibiscus mint tea. About the Ingredients Hibiscus is a beautiful flower that makes a refreshing ruby red tea. It is a cooling plant that is high in vitamin C, minerals and antioxidants. The flower is quite astringent and helps to tighten mucus membranes. In 2008, the American Heart Association published a report documenting that hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure in pre and mildly hypertensive adults. Mint adds delicious flavor, minerals and antioxidants to the tea. It is known to help relieve cramping in the digestive system and to help with alertness. Apple cider vinegar adds electrolytes, great for those who have been sweating due to work or play. It also helps to stimulate gastric juices, aiding in digestion. Honey is antimicrobial and rich in minerals. Local honey has the added benefit of being made from local plants, which helps us cope with seasonal allergies.
How to Make It 1 heaping Tablespoon dried hibiscus flowers 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves 1 quart water Bring water to a boil. Pour the hot water over the hibiscus and mint leaves, cover and steep for 1/2 hour. Pour 1 cup of tea through a strainer into a glass and add 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 Tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon lime juice Stir to dissolve honey. Refrigerate for several hours, serve cold. Recipe provided by The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition. TIOSN.com.
CUCUMBER-CANTALOUPE GREEN SMOOTHIE (Serves 2)
This refreshing smoothie packs a nutrient punch by combining leafy greens and herbs with cantaloupe, cucumber and almondmilk. We suggest sweetening it with a little honey, but you could also blend three or four pitted dried dates into the smoothie instead.
INGREDIENTS: 1 cucumber, peeled and seeded 2 cups cantaloupe chunks (from about 1/4 large cantaloupe) 1 cup finely chopped kale or baby spinach leaves 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves 3/4 cup plain unsweetened almondmilk 1 teaspoon honey (optional) 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
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Combine all ingredients in a blender; blend until smooth. Pour into 2 glasses and serve.
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Fairfield County Edition
Natural Awakenings FairfieldCounty natural awakenings
consciouseating
Certified Humane
Locavore Lingo
Wild Food
What All the Food Labels Really Mean by Judith Fertig
L
ocally grown foods are more likely to have been bred for flavor and nutrition than durability and a long shelf life, says Emily Akins, outreach director for the Kansas City Food Circle, a cooperative that links residents with farmers that grow and raise organic and free-range food. An added benefit is getting to know the farmer and being able to ask the questions—and receive the answers—that are important to us. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that local food sales totaled $12 billion in 2014, up from $5 billion in 2008. They continue to grow.
Organic or Certified Organic
Consumers want to know the difference between organics and certified organics. Today’s number of U.S. certified organic operations has jumped nearly 300 percent since 2002 to more than 21,700. Although a certified organic designation might be the preferred index of how foods are grown and raised, it is not always possible for certain foods in some climates. Sometimes there’s a tradeoff in buying organic foods in the carbon footprint of its transport to market. According to the Sweetwater Organic Community Farm, in Tampa, Florida, “Organic refers to a specific method of growing and processing foods, and is defined as produce grown, packaged and stored without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides or irradiation.” To be considered certified organic under the Code of Federal Regulations 7 CFR Part 205, products must meet these standards: n No harmful chemicals have been applied to the land for at least three years. n Farmers and processors are inspected annually by a certifying agency. n Farmers and processors must keep detailed records of practices. n Farmers are required to maintain a written organic management plan.
When we buy local cheese, poultry or meat at the farmers’ market, we sometimes see a certified humane notice. One such producer is Baetje Farms, outside St. Louis, Missouri. Their highly regarded goat cheeses offer traceability via a lot number, so buyers can know exactly which milking the cheese came from. In factory farming, which often involves penning or caging animals that never go outdoors, “certified humane” means that this producer meets Humane Farm Animal Care standards: n Fed a nutritious diet without antibiotics or hormones. n Provided proper shelter with resting areas and sufficient space. n Animals have the ability to behave naturally. Veronica Baetje says her farm’s goats receive organic mineral supplements and locally grown alfalfa hay in addition to pasture grass every day. She adds, “They are free to choose what they prefer to do, whether skip and run up a hill, lie under the shade of a tree, soak up some sunshine or play with their herd mates.” At times, farmers’ markets will offer foraged foods from the wild or wild game. Sources are listed online at EatWild.com. “Few of us will go back to foraging in the wild, but we can learn to forage in our supermarkets, farmers’ markets and from local farmers to select the most nutritious and delicious foods available,” says founder Jo Robinson, in Vashon, Washington. For example, Dave and Sue Whittlesey, at High Wire Ranch, in Hotchkiss, Colorado, raise bison (buffalo) and elk that they sell both through local stores and at the Aspen Saturday Market. The wild game is 100 percent pasture-fed, nonGMO (no genetically modified feed), gluten-free and not given hormones or any antibiotics unless the animal is sick.
Trusted Sources
The land, climate and growing season dictate the best natural farming practices for each area, often described along with their products on farm and farmers’ market websites. Wisconsin’s Dane County Farmers’ Market, in Madison, provides detailed descriptions of farm products and agricultural practices so customers can make informed choices. Sometimes, the type of farm makes a difference. “We are intentionally human scale,” says Virginia Goeke, of Sylvan Meadows Farm, in Viroqua, Wisconsin. “We choose to husband our land to promote harmony and synergy. We are creating a sustainable farm ecosystem where herbal meadows, prairies, heirloom gardens, orchards, woodlands, and rare breeds of livestock and wildlife flourish.” Sometimes, we’d just like someone else to do the food curating for us. The Kansas City Food Circle requires member farmers to take a pledge to follow certain agricultural practices. “When you buy food from our members, you can rely on the co-op’s pledge that it’s been certified naturally grown or that the farmer has USDA Organic certification,” says Akins. Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative, the joint effort of 100 small-scale family farms providing fresh, organic, seasonal produce, in Leola, Pennsylvania, gives similar assurances. The USDA reports that 160,000 farmers nationwide are currently selling to their local markets via farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture organizations, restaurants, groceries and institutions, generating health, social, economic and environmental benefits for local communities. It keeps growing because we keep asking questions. Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com. eNaturalAwakenings.com
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RSVP, $40. Bring your own lunch. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com.
Magazine calendar events must be received by July 12 (for August issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.
Spiritual Conversations: An Afternoon of Joy, Wisdom, and Community – 3:30-4:30pm. Meet Basil Jones, owner of Basil Yoga Center and Vinyasa Yoga Instructor, and Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator and Confidence and Visibility Coach. Also available via Facebook Live. Free. Basil Yoga Center, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. 203-403-2280. Info@BasilYoga.com. BasilYoga.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 1 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 2 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.
MONDAY, JULY 11 Guided Meditation – 7:30pm. Second Monday. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com.
TUESDAY, JULY 12 Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga on Candlewood Lake – 6:30-7:30pm. 7/12, 7/21 and 8/4. With Rebecca Archer. Paddle boards will be provided (8 available). $65 or 3 classes for $180 (+tax). Chatterton Marina, 5 Shore Dr, New Fairfield. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 13
Special Meditation Series – 8-8:45pm. With Darleen Driver. Series will focus on cleaning and quieting the mind, creating internal stillness, releasing anger and fear. Meditation Class Pack or $5 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
Pequot Ceremonial Drum Circle – 7-9:15pm. Sacred ceremonial drum on the anniversary of the Great Swamp Fight. Honor the Pequot tribe and heal ancestral ties for all victims and perpetrators. $20. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 8
FRIDAY, JULY 15
Monthly Shamanic Drum Circle – 7:30-10pm. Enhance your connection to energy, spirit and Mother Earth for guidance and healing through Native American methods. Drums and rattles provided. $20/preregistration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 9 Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm. Gifted and caring intuitives and healers available for readings and healing sessions. All are welcome. Sessions approx. 25 mins. Appointments available, walk-ins welcome. $45 and up for readings, $30 for healing. Albertson Memorial Church of
Naam Yoga Connecticut, Open House 7/15-7/17 – 7-8pm. 7-15-7/17. Celebrate Bethel’s Summer Sidewalk Festival. Free classes throughout the day on July 16, special classes, July 15-July 17. Meet our teachers and participate in some Yoga Fun. Free. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
TUESDAY, JULY 19
End-Of-Life “The Conversation” – 7-9pm. Join our monthly discussions on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life care. RSVP. Free. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning, The Liphe Balance Center of Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com.
THURSDAY, JULY 21
Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga on Candlewood Lake – 6:30-7:30pm. 7/12, 7/21 and 8/4. With Rebecca Archer. Paddle boards will be provided (8 available). $65 or 3 classes for $180 (+tax). Chatterton Marina, 5 Shore Dr, New Fairfield. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
Introduction to the Shamanic Journey – 7-9pm. Learn what a shamanic journey is, how it works, and what it is for. Exercises included to learn how to connect in a Journey safely and effectively. $40/pre-
markyourcalendar HYPNOSIS CERTIFICATION COURSE 100-hour Course with Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI October 15-22
Open doors to a better future. Not just something different, something that makes a difference. “This course exceeded my expectations! Truly life changing.” - Margaret Early Bird: $2,289 by 8/15 Regular: $2,489 by 9/15 SUNDAY, JULY 17 Caring for The Dying and The Journey of Mind Matters Hypnosis Center LLC The Soul After Death – 10:30am-2:30pm. Branford With Ganashyam Das, Hindu Chaplin. Explore Call to see if you qualify: 860-693-6448 the end-of-life teachings of the Vedic Bhakti Info: MindMattersHypnosis.com tradition including the use of Kirtan/Chanting. S&SF NaturalAwakenings_Jan2016_3.5x2_Layout 1 12/17/15 3:52 PM
Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching
Moss Mountain at
STICKS & STONES FARM A family farm hosting healing, educational, and musical events for the community.
Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535
www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border
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natural awakenings
sticksandstonesfarm.com or call 203 270 8820
Page
registration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 22
Chakra Sound Healing – 7-9pm. With Genevieve Kenneally, Intuitive Healer and Intuition teacher, and Joe Johnson and Naomi Edelman, Sound Healers. Self-Healing with Chakra Wisdom workshop. $30. Jiiva Yoga, Reiki and Massage Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 23
Neck and Shoulders (Carrying the Weight of the World) – 1:30-3:30pm. With Berta. Discuss why neck and shoulder pain occurs and how to begin the healing process. Lecture, learning about the chakras, stretching and yoga. $35. Jiiva Yoga, Reiki and Massage Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.
SUNDAY, JULY 24
Sunday Afternoon Cupcakes and Tea at the Acquiescence Farmhouse – 2-4pm. With Velya Jancz-Urban, author. Tour of her 1770 Woodbury farmhouse, the primary setting of her novel, Acquiescence. $20/per person. Location provided at registration. Woodbury. 860-354-4881. ColonialGoodwife@ gmail.com. ColonialGoodwife.com.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 27
Wise Woman Wednesday – 6:30-8:30pm. Wise Guys welcome too. This month explore roses as an herbal ally. Go home with a rose elixir. $25/ pre-registered; $30/at door. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-4602854. BekahTwinStar@gmail.com. Facebook.com/ events/1701139330147059.
FRIDAY, JULY 29
Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
Guided Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 7-8pm. With Linda Fiske and Judy Vuozzo. Relaxing guided meditation will help relieve stress, restore balance and harmony through breath and the soothing vibrations of master healers. Class pack, or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 30
Forest Bathing or Shinrin Yoku – 9:30am12:30pm. Studies have shown a link between Shinrin Yoku and reduced blood pressure, reduced levels of cortisol, increased heart rate variability and boosted immune system functioning. Walk approximately 2.5 hours and ½ mile. Free, donation requested. DNKL, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-747-8603. HealingTraditonsPark@gmail.com. HealingTraditionsPark.org.
markyourcalendar CELEBRATING LIFE AND BEYOND
The Alliance For Conscious Transitioning Presents: Caring for the Dying & The Journey of the Soul After Death with Ghanashyam Das, Hindu Chaplin Sunday, July 17 • 10:30am-2:30pm • $40 Quantum Spoon Bending: A Model for Healing and Transformation with Gene Ang, PhD, Yale Univ. Come learn techniques based on quantum mechanics and torsion field physics. Monday, July 18 • 6:30-9pm • $55 End-of-Life Doula Training with Henry Fersko-Weiss, President, International End of Life Doula Association Bringing deeper meaning and greater comfort to the dying. Friday, August 5 - Sunday, August 7 • $375
son, materials included. The Grounded Goodwife, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3
Working With Crystal Skulls – 7pm. With Sherry and Synergy. Sherry’s entertaining narratives about the history of the skull and some of its journeys will awaken your own spiritual passion. Pre-registration and payment required. $50. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-775-6272. LeslieGera@sbcglobal.net. MotherEarthCrystals.com.
markyourcalendar SunRavenThe Home of Slow Medicine Slow Medicine Café Sunday, July 10 • 10am-noon Enjoy a relaxing farm to table brunch. $25
Garden Workshop on Herbs and Herbalism. Saturday, July 16 • 10am-noon Understanding and using herbs. $30
Slow Medicine for Men A Men’s Group
For more information, or to register: AllianceFCT.com or 203-912-2791 Liphe Balance Center, Weston Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/ Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Totally Tomato – 5-7pm. Pick your own organic tomatoes from our non-GMO garden. Make and sip an Herbal Bloody Mary while we create and enjoy Gazpacho with Garden Herbs. $20/per per-
Monday, July 11 Cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with other conscious men. $30
Slow Medicine Women’s Wisdom Group Every Wednesday and Friday
Supporting each other by recognizing and embracing one’s full authentic beings, together nurturing our highest potential. $30 Please call to register for all gatherings: 914-218-3113 SunRaven: 501 Guard Hill Rd Bedford, NY SlowMedicineTherapist.com
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July 2016
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monday
Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. Wendy@AhimsaShantiYoga.com. AhimsaShantiYoga.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. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Evidential Readings and Healings – 12:30-6pm. Following Albertson mass. Evidential mediumship or psychic readings and various forms of energy healing. The Sacred Spirit, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-253-3500. Piscese28@aol. com. TheSacredSpirit.net.
Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Free Guided Meditation – 7:30pm: second Monday. 1pm: first and third Wednesday. With Dr. Allen Levy. Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 7:30-8:30pm. With Raffaela, certified yoga instructor. Begin your exploration of connecting the breath with movement as you develop strength, endurance, flexibility and optimal body alignment. $15, first class free. Class cards available. The Recharging Station, 241 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-241-1497. Yoga.For.Me241@gmail.com. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.
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tuesday Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail.com. DrKathySward.com. Healing Flow – 9:30-10:30am. Series of stretches, moves and poses; concentrating on breath. Improve flexibility and core strength while reducing stress. Create a lasting sense of calm. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus
natural awakenings
is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. . $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rt. 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Joyful Movement – 6:15-7:15pm. Stretch and breathe, with simple dance and yoga movements, with praise to contemporary Christian Music. Move and Praise God. All welcome. Free will donation. St John’s Episcopal Church, 628 Main St, Park in Cantebury Green (Suburban St), Stamford. 973-476-9582. PositivePathNow@gmail.com. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Metaphysics 3 – 7pm. Course identifies basic, metaphysical tools for living. Students will be encouraged to investigate, analyze and use these tools to cultivate dominion over the ego/personality and to express more of their innate Divine Potential. Love Offering $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.
wednesday Baby Boomer and Beyond Yoga – 10:30am-noon. Yoga for the young at heart. Taught by Deanne Mincer, with 30 years experience as teacher. In private setting, heated, carpeted floor. With close attention to aging issues. $80/4 weeks, $25/drop-in. 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol. com. DeanneMincer.com. Free Guided Meditation – 1pm. First and third Wednesdays. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 6:15pm. In Vinyasa yoga, your movements are synchronized to the breath. This style is sometimes also called flow yoga, because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. $14 or co-op rate. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. Wendy@AhimsaShantiYoga.com. AhimsaShantiYoga.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm. Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you yo happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062. Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction. org. TrinityProduction.org. Psychic and Mediumship Development Class – 7-9pm. Develop your own psychic and spiritual communication skills. Meditation and exercises to develop psychic and mediumship skills. All are welcome. $20. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293
Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@ gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org. Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and 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 Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.
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Mindfulness Meditation and Relaxation Tools for Busy Professionals – 12:30-1:15pm. Increase capacity to focus, concentrate and gain clarity. Act with greater ease and respond vs. react even amidst chaos, change and conflict. $99/5-week series. Includes drop-in meditation classes. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net. Endometriosis Support Group Meet Up – 1pm. SHC hosts a positive support group for those impacted by endometriosis. These meetings will be a great learning opportunity for women to receive and informative choices for managing the disease. Free. 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@ SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter. com/Endometriosis-Support. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. Come learn about your energy body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318.Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
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ongoingcalendar friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Free Mommy and Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Somatics – 10:30-11:30am. With Darlene Carman. The practice of body awareness and using the body to heal itself. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business and Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052. Gentle Naam Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. With Darleen Driver. Gentle introductory class to learn about the special benefits of the Naam Yoga practice. Class Pack or
Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud. ~Maya Angelou
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Fairfield County Edition
$17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Vinyasa Flow – 5:30-6:30pm. With Patricia Voorhees. Class guides you through classical yoga poses with attention to breath and mind-body awareness. Class Pack, or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave. Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262.
saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com. Beach Yoga and Meditation – 8:30-9:45am. Nourish your body, mind and spirit practicing gentle flow yoga and meditation by the sea. All levels welcome. During inclement weather, classes held indoors at Lifepath Yoga and Wellness. 4 for $70 (expires 2 months), 8 for $130 (expires 3 months). Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. Wendy@AhimsaShantiYoga.com. AhimsaShantiYoga.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic,
natural awakenings
8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Kids and Tween Yoga – 11:15am-12:15pm. K-5th. Sara Kate Venison. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Buddhist Teachings and Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:15pm. Second and fourth Saturday. No class 5/14. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net. ReddingMeditation.org. Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. FOR RENT NEED A SPACE FOR CLASSES/SERVICES? JOIN OUR COMMUNITY OF HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS Beautiful 600SF serene yoga studio and private Reiki/massage room w/ table are each available for rent. Bamboo floors, high ceilings, dimmable lighting, Ipod hookup, and yoga props. On Rt. 7, close to I-95 and Merritt. Email Nina@LifePathYoga.net. OFFICE SPACE STAMFORD IN WELLNESS CENTER - Perfect for therapist, counselor, coach, healer-Available full or part time. Beautiful environment, great parking congenial office mates. Call Eileen 203-353-8811.
HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Would you like to help spread the word about natural health and personal empowerment? Contact Publisher Nicole Miale today about becoming a Community Street Team member to represent the magazine at some of our many upcoming community events. NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCAdvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice
Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight loss issues. See ad, page 9.
JODY EISEMANN, LAc
Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture for all. Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as affordable group settings. Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues.
PATRICIA SINGER, MS, LAc 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 PatSinger.com
As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony and spiritual counseling.
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, non invasive, FDA registered.
CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC
CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY
449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 • MotherEarthCrystals.com The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans.
EDUCATION
True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care.
RISA SLOVES, DC
HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL
40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 21.
WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL
Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 7.
7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org
A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 25.
END OF LIFE
COLONICS
ALLIANCE FOR CONSCIOUS TRANSITIONING
COLONICS
914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC
501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com
At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace endof-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life. See ad, page 15.
Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.
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FLOATATION THERAPY
MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT
iFLOAT
501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com
163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 iFloatSpa.net Experience this superior form of body/mind relaxation as you float effortlessly in warm water with high concentrations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain and more. See ad, page 39. .
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com
MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION
Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.
HEADACHE/PAIN RELIEF CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS
235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Rel i e f C e n t e r ’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 19.
HEALTH COACH
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.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN MD FACP ABIHM SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com
Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance. Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective. See ad, page 9.
YUFANG LIN, MD
MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC
Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss and stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens and adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 21.
Fairfield County Edition
Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a soughtafter speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.
HYPNOSIS
KURT WAPLES, DC
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HOLISTIC DENTIST
WCMG Integrative Medicine 173 East Ave, New Canaan 203-920-1603 WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org Are you tired of being sick? Are you ready to transform your life? Let me help you heal from within holistically, using functional, herbal, homeopathic and energy medicine approaches.
natural awakenings
HENRY C. SOBO, MD
Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural H o r m o n e t h e r a p y, w e i g h t reduction programs, IV vitamin/ minerals treatments, allergy evaluation and treatment, fibromyalgia care and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.
INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER
Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Ashley Russell, ND Chris Maslowski, LAc, Resident Practitioner 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.
INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC
Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD Brian Rodrigues, OD, Jason Rutherford, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 44.
MASSAGE & BODYWORK 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 31.
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 33.
MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE
272 N Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs.
MEDITATION REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org
We t e a c h a n d p r a c t i c e 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.
DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC
MOBILE FITNESS & WELLNESS
1720 Post Rd E, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 BigAppleHealth.com
BRAMASOLÉ FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER Elizabeth D Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 BramasoleWellness.com
Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you! Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available. See ad, page 31.
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural 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 6.
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 22.
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, page 12.
Naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy, natural face lift using micro-current therapy. Specialties include family medicine, women’s health, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pain management, skin care. Insurance accepted.
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC
Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared P h o t o t h e r a p y, F u n c t i o n a l Medicine, Herbal Medicine, H o m e o p a t h y, H o r m o n a l Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.
NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING NUTRITION RESCUE
Jessica Moon, MS 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 300, Stamford 203-979-6181 • Jessica@NutritionRescue.net NutritionRescue.net Facebook.com/NutritionRescueCT Jessica uses a comprehensive approach for working with individuals and families. Specializing in dietary management of food sensitivities/allergies and providing support with elimination diets, menu development, and minimizing the impact of food restrictions.
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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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PILATES
MARIA C CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com
Past-Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.
CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT
PsychoSpiritual Therapy and Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.
THE ART OF CONTROL 1177 Summer St, Stamford 203-973-7262 Info@ArtoOfControl.com
Classically trained Pilates instructors teach the fundamental concepts and principles of Pilates. Part of Synergy Health and Fitness, a holistically oriented gym where practitioners from multiple disciplines offer their clients the fullest form of health and wellness. See ad, page 10.
ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW
Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/ bonding, child development and parenting. See ad, page 52.
PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING
DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP
ROBIN QUEEN-FINKELSTEIN
SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to Re-envision life in order to flourish. See ad, page 9.
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Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse and PTSD.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
REIKI
JILL BADYRKA, MFT AND REIKI MASTER In-Home Marriage and Family Therapy For Families, Children, Couples and Individuals 203-218-0194 JBadyrkaMFT@gmail.com
In-home services inspire healing, balanced with client well-being and comfort. Specializing in trauma, parent-child relationships, divorce, life coaching, selfempowerment and inner peace. Holistic and strength-based. Now accepting Saturday appointments for therapy and Reiki. See ad, page 29.
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Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com
Fairfield County Edition
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.
natural awakenings
TURNING POINT REIKI LLC
JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER
2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui & Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 31.
RIVER’S EDGE REIKI Lori Haggerty Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com
Feeling the negative effects of a high-stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 28.
ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WESTPORT ROLFING
Kaia Yoga Studio, Westport and Fairfield near Merritt exit 46 Sachi: 203-216-9720 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com Mikel: 203-216-9770 Mikel@WestportRolfing.com Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement reeducation for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 15.
SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER
WELLNESS CENTER
Berta Prevosti, Usui & Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com
7eFIT SPA
HUNTER HEALING HANDS
Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com
1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com
Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 8.
7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include antiaging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weightloss program.
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SALTANA CAVE
A new way to looking and feeling good.
TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING
590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com
KURE SPA
BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com
Fit Spa
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 31.
430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com
Kure Spa rovides a Relax while our technology place for people to
does the work.
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and more richly colored than the day. ~Vincent Van Gogh
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COSMIC RHYTHMS by Alethea Hunt
A
Cancer new moon takes place on July 4, putting food and family on center stage at the beginning of the month. Its contacts to empathetic Neptune and deep, intense Pluto means many may also be feeling more introverted than usual; people may need to talk about their feelings around this time, so focus on being a good listener. Do your best to comfort any loved ones who may be undergoing intense transformations in their lives. Setting an intention regarding home and family matters—such as manifesting a new residence, starting a family, or developing a deeper relationship with your own family-oforigin—is strongly favored for this lunation. A word of caution though…the sun and moon are near “Dog Star” Sirius at this time, which does have a potential connection with dog bites. If you’re at an Independence Day picnic, keep an eye on the dogs—who may already be feeling skittish due to the crowds and loud fireworks—especially if children are around. After this point, it may be an active communication week on the relationship and financial fronts with Venus and then Mercury touching off multiple planets from July 5-11. Contact to Mars in Scorpio makes it a great time for facing issues head on— whether it is the inner “demons” or debt—while a square to Uranus shortly thereafter favors changing emotional responses and habits regarding love and money to make positive, self-initiated shifts. A link to “Medicine Man” Chiron emphasizes healing via a compassionate understanding of just how the family-of-origin may have shaped fiscal and/or relationship situations. Capping this off just before Venus switches signs is a square to “Earth Mother” Ceres, who in assertive Aries may promote adopting a more proactive stance concerning material and relational matters. Although this approach may seem pushy, it can actually be a gift as it compels you to be more independent. Both Venus and Mercury switch signs, making their Leo debut between July 12 and 13. As this sign is associated with children, this would be a great time to think about putting small amounts of money away for your kids’ futures. Both also simultaneously contact savings-oriented Saturn circa the full moon on July 19. Since Leo is also a recreational sign, regularly putting a way a bit of “fun money” into a safe, designated fund where it can grow would be another good use of this energy. The full moon is in staid Capricorn but gets an invigorating jostle from Mars and Uranus. There tends to be comfort with the status quo under a Capricorn moon, but the Uranus and Mars involvement suggests this “sheltered” energy may actually be rather irritating now. True emotional maturation involves evolving beyond a basic need for safety, security and stability to start taking risks. This is exactly what the energy of this moon can help with; it’s like being pushed to metaphorically leave the nest in some way. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-9176312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.
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displayadvertiserindex AcuThin Westport
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Alliance for Conscious Transitioning 15 Art of Control
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Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 7 Jill Badyrka
29
Judith Barr
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Lipo-Light Westport
25
Lyall Studios
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Main Street Marketplace Festival 7 Deanne Mincer
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Mowatt Painting & Services
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Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales
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Natural Beauty Spa
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The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical
2
Natural Health & Wellness Center 5
The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental
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Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market
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31
Nature’s Way Natural Foods
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Brookfield Craft Center
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Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic
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Central Services
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Olivette 49
Chamomille Natural Foods
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Robin Ordan, Coach
Chaski Fest
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Bramasole Wellness
9
Robin Ordan, LMT
33
Robin Ordan, LCSW
52
Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc
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CT Headache & Migraine Center 19
Origin Fitness
10
DermaClear
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DoTerra/Lori Haggerty
28
Prescription for Wellness/ Mary Gilbertson
21
Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine
Julie Punishill
39
17
Ann Reeves
13
Eat Naturall
48
Salon Aponte
15
Embody the Sacred
13
Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa 33
Eyecare Associates
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Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND
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Final Journey LLC
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Victoria Shaw, PhD
26
9
The SNO Company
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Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli
33
CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard
Forest Kinder School Debra Gibson, ND The Graduate Institute
9
16 3
Soupstock 4
Hands and Paws Reiki for All
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Sticks & Stones Farm
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Hedge Trimming by Thomas
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Sun Raven, the home of Slow Medicine
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Hilda Swaby
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Total Life Care Center
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Touch of Sedona
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Hunter Healing Hands
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Ifloat
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TreeTech 45
Insight Counseling
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Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 14
The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 63 Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 31
University of Bridgeport Clinics
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Kairali Wellness Center
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Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND
22
Kindred Spirits
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Westbrook Nature School
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Kure Spa
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Westport Farmers Market
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Beth Leas
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Westport Rolfing
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LifePath Yoga & Wellness
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Whole Fit Studio
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"Things do not change; We do." – Henry David Thoreau
If you are seeking healing we are here to help. The sta�f of Insight Counseling expertly treats depression, anxiety, addictive behaviors, relationship struggles and all family and adolescent problems. Our sta�f combines science and spirituality to heal the whole person. Call for a free consultation or reach us through our website. (203) 431-9726 www.insightcounselingllc.com
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Insight Counseling, LLC 203.431.9726 info@insightcounselingllc.com 103 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT www.insightcounselingllc.com