Carbon Conscious COOKOUTS
Benefits of GOOD POSTURE
Accelerating GRASSROOTS SUSTAINABILITY in Connecticut
DR. MARK HYMAN on Making Our Health Span Equal Our Lifespan
Our professional team of holistic and natural businesses provides community outreach and education. We are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind and spirit in the communities we serve.
To join Holistic Community Professionals, contact Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033. Visit our site: HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org
Damaris Cruz
Holy Fire is both powerful and gentle, and provides purification, healing, empowerment and guidance.
Tender Loving Reiki
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Rev. Lauri Ingram
Mindfulness and Meditation teacher
Spiritual Counseling, Sacred Creativity through Cosmic Smashbooking Crystal, Light, Sound Energy Balancing
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Gayle Franceschetti
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Rocky Hill & Virtual Visits Your Health Detective. Listens, Takes Time, Finds You Answers. Uses Detailed Testing, Not Guessing. Discovers the Root Cause of Symptoms. 234-222-8362
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Kathy Stalter Owner
Scalar/biophotonic energy field system that creates an environment for cells to recharge and restore, so the body can heal itself.
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Terri O’Brien
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Fear Stomper
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As we switch over from the promise of spring with its beautiful unfurling of greenery to summer fun, heat and harvest, we are reminded of the abundant resourcefulness of New England. CSAs are beginning, gardens are planted and early crops are flourishing. We are utilizing what is around us to sustain us. Our community roots show.
The sustainability and resourcefulness aspects remind me of a recent tire-related event in my life. While driving on our infamous I95 highway, a large nail lodged itself in one tire. The complete deflation happened at home rather than a potential blowout on the road—my first emotion was gratefulness for my family’s safety. I turned to a family-owned store in town as a resource for the tire replacement—the second emotion was appreciation that I was able to support a local business. In true New England prudent fashion, I realized it was better to replace all four of my tires during the “down,” non-emergency spring season—a reminder of the importance of maintenance in our lives. When I indicated that I wanted the tires back to use as cool flower beds alongside my fence, the owner was appreciative of the sustainability component and keeping the tires out of a landfill.
There was a silver lining journey for this story, just as there can be for so many things that happen to each of us in our lives. It points to a theme of sustainability and maintenance for our people, places and planet. This June edition can help you delve further into that theme with articles on living healthy as we get older, using our metabolism to bolster our bodies, maintaining our posture and eye health, and so much more. We spotlight two local resources with articles on Sustainable CT’s efforts in the state as well as Stone Gardens Farm’s expansion to a new farm and health food store for Fairfield County and New Haven County community members.
As our calendars fill up after the end of the school year with summer events, youth camps, vacations, fairs and family gatherings, make sure to check out upcoming events in our calendar section. Support your own well-being maintenance by reaching out to the practitioners listed in our community resource guide.
So here is to the start of a summer of sustainability for your mind, body, soul and family!
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The aroma of tasty treats sizzling on an outdoor grill evokes memories of laughter among family and friends, picnic tables brimming with colorful foods and the joy of running barefoot in the grass. This year, consider adding a few eco-friendly upgrades to America’s favorite summer tradition.
The biggest environmental impact from outdoor grilling comes from the fuel source. Here is a handy comparison of the options.
n Charcoal briquettes are little chunks of carbon made by baking wood byproducts, sawdust and other additives. Charcoal burns inefficiently and produces caustic smoke before and after the useful temperature for cooking. To reduce the carbon footprint, consider sustainably sourced bamboo or coconut shells to flame up the grill.
n Gas grills burn fossil fuels like propane or natural gas. On the other hand, they produce fewer carbon emissions than charcoal, heat more quickly and can be turned off immediately.
n Electric grills may seem more eco-friendly for backyard cookouts, but most electricity is derived from fossil fuels. If the home runs on renewable energy, electric wins. Otherwise, gas grills have a smaller carbon footprint.
n Infrared is the latest in barbecue technology. These pricey outdoor grills can reach high temperatures quickly, use less fuel and cook foods evenly. Because they use electric or gas heating elements that radiate infrared waves to the food, they generally run for less time than other grills. One drawback is that their high temperatures can easily overcook or burn foods, especially ingredients that don’t need high temperatures, like fish, vegetables and other seafood.
Regardless of the fuel source, it is important to keep the grill free of grease and food particles to prevent more smoke. When the grill is still warm, clean the grates with a wire brush. If grates are already cool, scrub with baking soda and water.
Burgers and ribs may be synonymous with traditional cookouts, but the modern barbecue menu isn’t all about meat. Recipes abound for grilled veggies and fruits that lend a delicious smoky and caramelized flavor to these nutritious foods. Embrace the appeal of slightly charred corn on the cob, browned portobello mushrooms and grill-marked pineapple. If meat-free burgers won’t please the crowd, look for certified organic, grass-fed and locally raised meats.
Have you ever wondered what Reiki practice and guided meditation can feel like?
Come spend the afternoon at Ray of Light Farm, a nonprofit animal rescue and animalassisted therapy center, on July 8 from 1-4 p.m. At this wellness event, taking place in Haddam, Conn., you will experience a guided meditation, followed by a 20-minute Reiki session on a chair or table. You will meet different Reiki practitioners from various areas and will finish with a glass of wine, cider and chocolates. You can also visit with the rescue animals.
Eileen Anderson, RN, a Reiki master practitioner, is facilitating the event with Carol Borsari, a retired speech pathologist, Reiki practitioner and volunteer at Ray of Light Farm, under a pavilion on the farm property promoting peace and serenity.
Ray of Light Farm serves as a safe haven for animals by providing medical care, healthy food and retraining. Another goal of this farm is to bring people and animals together in a therapeutic environment.
Reiki is a healing practice originating in Japan. It restores balance to the body physically and emotionally, therefore promoting rest, relaxation and resilience. Clients have reported improved sleep, increased concentration, better digestion and decreased pain. Medical professionals have observed stabilized blood pressure and heart rate, reduced side effects from chemotherapy, easier breathing, and stabilized blood sugar.
There is a flat donation of $40 for the event. All donations benefit the rescue animals.
For more information, call Eileen Anderson, RN, at 203-314-5401, email eilande@comcast.net or ReikiWithEileenAnderson.com. Location: 232 Town St., East Haddam, CT.
MasterJoy and Success, a transformation practice founded by Terri O’Brien, is launching 14 audio courses and an instructional course, Leap Into Your Fears. The audio courses upgrade limiting thought and behavior to dynamic, powerful thinking and action easily and effortlessly, while the instructional course is an online study loaded with over 14 hours of content, worksheets and bonus materials deeply delving into why we feel fear and how to overcome it.
Each audio course is designed to remove natural resistance toward change by introducing big, powerful, inspirational thoughts about handling an issue. These thoughts develop the confidence and motivation to go after your biggest goals. The audio courses create change by igniting the imagination with bold, new ideas; feelings of joy; and a can-do attitude. Listening to the audio courses is an enjoyable exercise that, with repeated listening, subtly wires in new thoughts and behaviors of openness, possibility, positivity and opportunity.
Through training as a fear facilitator and certified hypnotherapist, O’Brien has learned that personal limitations are choices guided by irrational fears and incorrectly held beliefs, often begun in childhood. Her dream was to create affordable, unique courses that can change the mindset toward an issue and someone’s relationship with fear.
To experience a sample audio course, Breathe, Relax, and Let Go, visit the MindSHOP at MasterJoyandSuccess.com. This audio is available in the MindBeliefs and MindTruths courses.
Channeling Your Wisdom Coaching now offers Clarity Coaching to ease decision-making stress. These 90-minute standalone sessions make big decisions bite-sized by untangling the inner views causing confusion. When you have a clear understanding of what’s needed and what’s at stake, your intuition will guide you to make the right choice.
Channeling Your Wisdom Coaching delivers a holistic approach to healing and wellness. Combining four techniques—Internal Family Systems (IFS) “parts work,” life coaching, meditation and Reiki energy—clients connect with their inner wisdom to cultivate self-compassion, heal old wounds and create meaningful change.
The transformational dimension of this work is IFS, an evidence-based healing model that serves as tool for wellness and growth. It was introduced over 30 years ago by Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., LMFT, and has recently been adapted to coaching.
Owner Lynda Mettler is a life coach, Reiki master and IFS practitioner. She offers virtual sessions.
For more information or purchase a gift certificate, visit YourWisdomCoaching.com. Email Lynda@YourWisdomCoaching.com to schedule a free consultation session.
SimplyWellness is a new holistically focused healing center and gift shop opening on June 3 in Windsor Locks, Conn. Owners Gina McCray and Faith Silverman have joined together to offer a wide range of holistic modalities, classes and mentorship to help you reach your highest potential.
The center offers Kripalu-based yoga, a relaxing spa salt room with halotherapy, guided meditation, Ayurvedic facials, sound healing, nutrition coaching, mentorship and readings alongside a metaphysical shop featuring healing crystals, crystal jewelry, holistic skin care products and gifts made by local artisans.
The vision of Simply Wellness is to inspire you in self-care by helping you achieve better sleep, healthy eating and lifestyle habits, reduce stress levels, and restore your energy while promoting happiness, healing and a sense of belonging.
For more information or to book a session, call 860-385-4692 or visit SimplyWellnessCenter.square.site. Location: Simply Wellness, 584 North St., Windsor Locks, CT.
OnJune 20 at 6:30 p.m., join the Holistic Moms Network’s New Haven County chapter as Dr. Tara McCrystal presents on Reiki healing energy work. The presentation will be held as part of the chapter’s monthly meeting, which is open to the public. It will take place in person at Nate’s Plates in Milford, Conn.
Dr. McCrystal will discuss in-person and transformational distance Reiki as well as Access Bars energy work from Access Consciousness, a set of transformational tools and processes. Both forms of energy work promote relaxation and stress reduction, self-healing, and personal transformation.
Dr. McCrystal is a Reiki master, Access Bars practitioner, physical therapist, movement artist and dance teacher. She works from Walnut Beach Wellness Center in Milford. Dr. McCrystal holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions. She has worked as an on-site physical therapist for Boston Ballet Company and School, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Berklee College of Music and Children’s Hospital Boston. She has published research in dance medicine and has presented on concussion in dance at the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science Conference.
Nate’s Plates (NatesPlates.net) is a local eatery, located at 2 Schooner Lane in Milford, which focuses on locally sourced fresh products and ingredients as much as possible, gluten- and dairy-free choices, ready-to-go meal options, and much more.
The mission of Holistic Moms Network (HolisticMoms.org), a nonprofit support and discussion network, is to connect parents who are interested in holistic health and green living. It welcomes people wherever they are on their own holistic path in an environment that does not judge. The monthly meetings, open to the public, are held the third Tuesday of each month.
For more information, visit HolisticMoms.org or Facebook.com/HMNNewHaven. RSVP for the event on the Events page on Facebook.com/NewHaven.
Dian Dossias, a certified functional medicine health and wellness coach, is offering a new group program starting on June 10: Real food. Real people. Real results! You will be encouraged and empowered to make behavioral and lifestyle changes to align with your goals with this small community of people.
By the end of this 10-week program, you can release an average 20-30 pounds quickly while safely and significantly boosting your health and wellness. You will address the biggest drivers of weight gain and see shifts in your health and life. In addition, you will learn that it’s about the journey (not about perfection) and begin to make consistently healthy choices. Attendees will understand how to repattern the brain to no longer be a victim to dysfunctional thoughts keeping you stuck. You can ditch the diet mentality and adopt a sustainable lifelong solution that will allow your unique body to thrive. Most importantly, you will learn the best practices to take your body from a state of stress and depletion to balance and renewal.
To support others in reaching their health and wellness goals, Dossias is offering a 50% discount (use code BETA23 during the checkout process) if you join now.
To join the next group, visit ResetWithDian. com (see discount code listed above). To get on the waitlist (future group programs), share your contact information at ResetWithDian.com/waitlist. For questions or more information on the RESET program, call or text 860-406-2856, email HealthCoachDian@gmail.com, or connect at Facebook.com/ResetWithDian.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine determined that vitamin D deficiency increases mortality risk. The findings were based on a survey of the vitamin D levels and genetic data of more than 300,000 people aged 37 to 73 that participated in the UK Biobank, a large-scale cohort study that began in 2006. Almost 19,000 deaths from all causes, as well as from specific causes such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory illnesses, were recorded through 2020.
Researchers discovered that the risk of death decreased steeply with increasing concentrations of vitamin D, until reaching 50 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The odds of death from all causes were estimated to increase by 25 percent for participants with vitamin D levels of 25 nmol/L, compared to those with 50 nmol/L.
We have been conditioned to believe that eight glasses of water are required each day, but new research published in Science found that daily water needs vary based on numerous factors. Researchers studied 5,604 people aged 8 to 96 from 23 countries, measuring their water turnover—the amount of water lost and replaced each day. They found that for most healthy adults, drinking eight cups of water a day is unnecessary because water needs vary depending on age, sex, body size, physical activity level, athletic status, pregnancy, socioeconomic status and environmental characteristics such as latitude, altitude, air temperature and humidity. People that lived in less developed countries had higher water turnover than people from developed countries. While hydration should be prioritized, most people that pay attention to their bodies and drink when thirsty are likely drinking enough water.
A 2022 research study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that herbs and spices may be unsung heroes in the quest for gut health. The three-period, randomized, controlled-feeding study involved 54 obese or overweight adults aged 30 to 75 with at least one other risk factor for cardiovascular disease, such as elevated glucose or triglycerides.
Participants consumed the same average American diet for four weeks, along with one of three daily doses of spices and herbs—0.5 grams, 3.3 grams or 6.6 grams—which included cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme. Fecal samples were collected at the start of the study and the end of each diet period. Researchers determined that consuming 3.3 or 6.6 grams of herbs and spices per day increased levels of the Ruminococcaceae bacteria, a major player in the maintenance of gut health. The highest levels of this beneficial bacteria were observed among those that consumed the highest levels of herbs and spices. The scientists recommend further investigation to identify the metabolic implications of their findings.
Most mesh tea bags are made of 20 to 30 percent plastic, which can release microplastics and nanoplastics, causing harmful effects for both human health and the environment. In a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, researchers found that one standard tea bag made with plastic released 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into a cup of tea. The particles in the tea matched the nylon and polyethylene terephthalate in the original tea bag.
Safer alternatives include steeping loose teas with a stainless steel or silicone tea strainer, or purchasing tea from brands that offer plastic-free teabags. Organic teas may still have plastic in the tea bag, as the packaging is not overseen by organic-certifying organizations. jatupronAdobeStock.com
New research published in the journal Nature has found dramatic changes in the composition of sea ice in the Arctic Ocean since 2007 caused by climate change. Norwegian Polar Institute researchers have monitored sea ice thickness in the Fraim Strait (a sea channel connecting the Arctic Ocean and the Nordic Seas that runs between Greenland and the Norwegian archipelago) for the past three decades. In 2007, a “regime shift” was noted in Arctic sea ice composition, from thicker and deformed to thinner and more uniform ice cover.
Researchers found that the amount of thick and deformed ice had dropped by half, and they believe the thinning may be irreversible. They link the ice thinning to a rise in Arctic surface temperatures, more energy absorption because of a reduction in reflected light off the sea ice and warmer ocean water. Younger, thinner ice could result in a loss of habitat for Arctic creatures, as thicker, ridged sea ice can be a haven to hide from predators. There are also consequences for humans. Thinner, more level ice is less challenging for ship navigation and, along with less ice and shorter ice seasons, may permit an increase in Arctic maritime traffic.
Brazilian researchers have discovered rocks formed from plastic debris in the permanently preserved area of Trindade Island, approximately 680 miles off the coast of Brazil. The island is a remote refuge for green turtles, which come by the thousands every year to lay their eggs. The only human inhabitants of the island are members of the Brazilian navy.
The team of researchers ran chemical tests on the rocks, called plasticglomerates, and determined that they were formed when fishing nets were dragged by the current and accumulated on the beach. It is believed that the nets melt when the temperature rises and they become embedded with the sedimentary granules and other debris on the beach.
the opportunity to turn their farm stand into a farm store well-situated in a central location. That dream became a reality at the beginning of June. The Monahans secured the lease, negotiated the purchase of the market’s equipment, coordinated improvements and installed a new system, working with many of Common Bond Market’s employees and the former owner as well as Bill Purcell, the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce’s president and CEO.
Since 1998, Fred and Stacia Monahan have farmed the area known as Stone Gardens Farm in Shelton. What first began as selling vegetables produced on leased land has increased exponentially to include growing vegetables on 50 acres of land and raising grass-fed cattle, poultry and pigs for beef, chicken and pork meat sales directly to customers, including CSAs for those in the Fairfield County and New Haven County areas. When the doors of Common Bond Market in Huntington Center suddenly closed in March, the Monahans opened the location’s doors again as a farm and
health food store to expand their offerings.
“As a farm, we have been looking to expand our retail area for the last couple years,” says Stacia Monahan. “We were a 100 percent destination store, and it was one of our biggest limitations to expanding in the farm’s current location.”
The Monahans explored options in the area, including increasing the amount of land they currently have, but zoning became an issue in regard to having the retail farm store there. When Common Bond Market’s former store became available, the Monahans explored and embraced
Stone Garden Market will continue to offer the health supplements, prepared food and other products that the previous store had offered customers. “This will be a farm stand meets health food store meets grocery store,” Stacia Monahan states excitedly. “Our goal is to make the store as inclusive as possible. Whatever your dietary needs, we can service you. Anything from Doritos to dairy-free, nut-free, grain-free, from vegan to meat.”
Some of the changes include a farm stand customer service desk related to Stone Gardens Farm’s offerings, including information on different meat bundles, questions about the farm, meat CSAs and prepaid item pickups, and more. The store will have grab-n-go meals as well as a hot food section for lunch and early dinner time.
“Another thing we are doing is expanding the produce section. We had new produce tables and a customer service/farm desk built by a man who went to school with our oldest son. These are made from wood harvested and milled in Shelton. It’s about local resources and sourcing from within our community,” Stacia Monahan explains. “Just to name a few sources from other Connecticut and New York farms—and they are many others—we are getting peaches from Beardsley, herbs and micro-greens from Gilbertie’s Organics, produce from Cecarellis Harrison Hill Farm in Northford, garlic and onions from These Things Take Thyme in Shelton, pie shells from Oronoque Farms for pot pies and quiches, and lamb from Sepe Farms in Sandy Hook. At Stone Gardens, we also grow our own sweet corn, tomatoes and other produce.”
Stacia Monahan is especially grateful that over half of Common Bond Market’s former employees will return to work for the store, including three managers. “Diana will remain as our new kitchen manager. We brought Angus on immediately to continue as the store manager and Theresa as the grocery manager,” she
says. Nearly a dozen of Stone Garden’s employees will also transfer to the Huntington Center location.
Their oldest, Tommy, is USDAcertified in meat cutting and serves as the butcher for the farm. Their middle son Billy, a welder, helps fix the farm equipment while their teenage daughter Sophie contributes with animal feedings, flower growing and sales, and vegetable planting and harvesting.
And the employees at the farm are all connected through family and friends. The family, friends, employees and community are invested in Stone Gardens and the expansion.
The store is located at 40 Huntington St., Shelton, CT. The store hours are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Connect at StoneGardensFarm.com.
“This will be a farm stand meets health food store meets grocery store,” Stacia Monahan states excitedly.
situation,” Stoddard says. “The goal is to inspire municipalities to first do one thing to make a community more inclusive and connected. Then do one more. And so on.”
In the not-so-distant past, the word sustainability conjured images associated with global climate change warning signs such as polar bears clinging to ice floes and heaps of garbage floating on far-away oceans. These global concerns remain front and center on the federal level and international stages, but here in Connecticut the focus is hyper-local when it comes to affecting real change.
Sustainable CT, an independent nonprofit organization based in Storrs, Conn., has spent the past five years providing guidance, resources and funding for sustainability projects of all types at the grassroots local level all over the state. “Municipal decisions have a huge impact on the health and well-being of our individual communities,” explains Executive Director Lynn Stoddard.
“The certification program we offer focuses on municipal leaders and the decisions they’re making to make their towns more resilient, livable and attractive.”
The Sustainable CT model is to inspire and accelerate sustainability actions by providing local municipalities with a broad menu of coordinated and voluntary best practice sustainability actions. “We’re trying to support, accelerate and showcase sustainability action by towns and individuals,” Stoddard says. “We define ‘sustainability’ very broadly. Our certification program is at the heart of what we do. Participating towns are making a real difference in the quality of life for all their residents, and our certification roadmap helps guide them in creating thriving, resilient and sustainable communities.”
Stoddard cites real-life examples such as making school and town buildings more energy-efficient; designing more bike-friendly streets; and creating community gardens on town property with produce donated to local food banks. “We take a bottom-up, grassroots approach to the very real problems many Connecticut towns are facing, based on the idea that people know what’s best for their own neighborhood and want to be involved in helping to change the
Once a town is registered with Sustainable CT, a team of municipal leaders and passionate local volunteers is formed. This local team and Sustainable CT staff then coordinate resources and tools to identify and fund the specific sustainability actions which will count toward the town’s certification. Sustainable CT certification includes three levels: gold (new in 2023), silver and bronze; each of these requires a specific number of best practice actions be selected and implemented from hundreds of options in 12 different categories.
The categories include clean and diverse transportation systems and choices; efficient physical infrastructure and operations; strategic and inclusive public services; dynamic and resilient planning; well-stewarded land and natural resources; thriving local business economies; efficient, diverse and affordable housing; vibrant and creative cultural ecosystems; and inclusive and equitable community impacts. Inclusivity and equity goals are a priority for many towns and Sustainable CT has added depth to their staff with a panel of equity coaches prepared to aid municipalities that want to improve in this area.
With more than 248 distinct local projects funded across the state to
date, and approximately $3 million invested in the past three years alone, Sustainable CT’s efforts are having an impact across the state. In total, 131 municipalities are currently participating in the free voluntary programs offered by Sustainable CT and 59 towns are currently certified (each certification lasts three years). Twenty-four municipalities earned new Sustainable CT certification in 2022. As of now, 14 New Haven County towns and seven Middlesex County towns are certified. Both large and small, these municipalities are way-showers placing sustainability at the forefront of their future planning.
In New Haven County, silver certified towns are: Guilford, Milford and New Haven. Bronze-certified towns include Cheshire, Meriden, Southbury, Waterbury and West Haven. In Middlesex County, Essex, Old Saybrook and Portland have been certified at the silver level, while Chester, Deep River, Durham and East Haddam are currently certified at the bronze level. Climate Leaders is a new designation rolled out in fall 2022 to recognize municipalities whose targeted efforts are aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the changing climate.
“We are inspired by the leadership and commitment of all these communities,” Stoddard says. “From elected officials and town staff to resident volunteers, these certified towns and Climate Leaders are improving opportunities and quality of life for all.”
Sustainable CT is independently funded, with strong multi-year support from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, Hampshire Foundation, Connecticut Green Bank, Common Sense Fund, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut and Fairfield County Community Foundation. Stoddard says there are local grant funding opportunities available through a Community Match Fund program that boasts a simple application process leading to project kickoff in six to eight weeks. “This community match fund shifts the power dynamic directly to the people in the communities,” she explains. “For example, someone may want to clean up a run-down park area and plant new trees. We set them up on our crowdfunding platform, coach them and match every dollar they raise with dollars from Sustainable CT.”
“We’re finding that many municipal leaders are very interested to get involved with us,” Stoddard says, “because we share a positive vision for how we can make communities more connected and whole. That’s what our organization is all about.”
Food justice and community garden development has exploded in interest in recent years, she says, fueled in part by the pandemic and peoples’ interest in outdoor projects that could have a positive impact on their neighborhoods. “Like everyone, we weren’t sure what to
expect when COVID-19 happened, but we found that people had more time and town leaders were looking for positive ideas and messages. So, we actually filled a void for many at that time, and the momentum has continued.”
For example, Fairfield volunteers created a community garden on town property and the produce serves the local Food Bank, which saw use surge during the pandemic. Fairfield also instituted a Grow a Row for Hope gardening initiative, encouraging people with private gardens to dedicate a section of produce intended for donation to address food insecurity.
Sustainable CT has a wealth of resources available on their website and offers all towns the benefit of free webinars and access to support staff as well as consultancy. Many of the organization’s events are virtual, including their monthly coffee hours held on the third Friday of each month. April’s Coffee Hour will discuss a Yale program on Climate Change and Messaging; it will take place on April 21 at 10 a.m. via Zoom.
For more information about Sustainable CT and its many programs, email Info@SustainableCT.org or visit SustainableCT.org.
Nicole Miale is a writer, healer and coach residing in Washington Depot, Conn. Connect with her at NMiale@charter.net or 203-981-2451.
How is the emerging science on longevity changing the way we view aging?
Many things we’ve come to accept as a normal part of getting older are not. Decrepitude, frailty, disease, diabetes, cancers, dementia—these are optional. We can’t change chronological aging, but we can slow and reverse biological aging by influencing the hallmarks of aging, which are these underlying processes that go awry as we get older.
In my book I wrote about 10 hallmarks of aging, which are all part of one ecosystem of problems. They’re not separate; they influence each other; and they’re dynamic. It’s things like inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, zombie cells, shortened telomeres, microbiome changes and epigenetic changes, which are changes in how our genes are expressed. They’re all important, but the most important hallmark of aging is called deregulated nutrient sensing, which means how our body interacts with food and how that influences us for good or bad. Problems with nutrient sensing affect almost all the other hallmarks and make them worse.
We have built-in longevity pathways and over 3,000 survival genes, and we can activate this innate healing intelligence at any time. A major way to influence four of these pathways is through food. I call them longevity switches, which we need to learn how to regulate to make our health span equal our lifespan.
The first one is activated by too much sugar and starch, which drives too much insulin signaling, causing diabetes, pre-diabetes, cancer, dementia, heart disease or obesity. When insulin is over-expressed, it causes weight gain, fat storage, inflammation and lots of other problems.
The next one is mTOR [mammalian target of rapamycin], a pathway that makes new proteins and builds muscle, but gets overstimulated because of our constant eating and snacking and eating before bed. mTOR needs to be inhibited periodically by intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating to allow autophagy to happen, which is like a recycling and repair crew that comes in at night and cleans up all the damaged proteins.
The other two pathways, sirtuins and AMPK [adenosine monophosphate-activated protein
kinase], sense a lack of nutrients and switch on survival pathways. If we’re constantly eating sugar and starch, then AMPK and sirtuins are overstimulated, and they’re not given a break to activate these pathways.
If it were a pill, exercise would basically fix everything. It’s probably the most potent intervention there is, other than calorie restriction or fasting, and it works on many of the longevity pathways. The most important type of exercise is resistance training as you get older, because you need to build muscle. Without muscle, you become frail and dysfunctional.
Exercise influences our DNA stability; lengthens telomeres; preserves the genome; affects the proteins; regulates mTOR, AMPK and sirtuins; preserves mitochondrial function; prevents zombie cells; helps with stem cells; reduces inflammation, cardiovascular risk and diabetes; and it’s also really important for becoming insulin sensitive.
Hormesis is the idea that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. The concept is not new. We know that exercise, for example, is a stress on the body, but it actually makes you rebound stronger. When you lift weights or you run, it’s a stress, but you’re getting thinner and stronger. There are other forms of hormesis that activate longevity pathways. Hot sauna therapy
Mark Hyman is a practicing family physician and an internationally recognized leader, bestselling author, speaker, educator and advocate in the field of functional medicine. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, founder and senior advisor for the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine and board president for clinical affairs for The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is also the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign, dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy change, and hosts The Doctor’s Farmacy, a podcast with more than 150 million downloads. Hyman is a regular contributor to CBS This Morning, Today, Good Morning America, The View, Fox and CNN. His latest book, Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life, champions the latest science on healthy aging.
reduces your risk of cardiovascular mortality by 50 percent. Cold immersion therapy has many benefits, like increasing dopamine, activating brown fat and regulating metabolism. Fasting is a kind of hormesis, and longer fasts—for a day, three days, a week—are very powerful.
What role does finding community have in this quest for longevity?
The science is pretty clear that the body has innate systems that can be regulated by our thoughts. We now understand the mechanisms by which our social relationships and connections can influence our gene expression and everything from inflammation to insulin resistance to everything else, so building connection with others and building relationships and community is very important.
What longevity strategies do you implement on a typical day?
A lot of this is just habit development and routine. This morning I worked out with my resistance bands for half an hour, took a steam shower and an ice bath, then had a longevity shake with goat whey, creatine, urolithin A and adaptogenic mushrooms. Then I took a walking meeting for an hour-and-a-half outside while I was on a call. Tonight, I plan to spend time with friends. I eat pretty simply most of the time. Last night, I had lamb chops, sweet potatoes, shiitake mushrooms, artichokes (which are a great prebiotic food) and some broccoli with lemon, garlic and olive oil. I take my supplements as well. So it’ s very simple, very easy.
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by Cristina Parker, PT, DPT
Standing up straight is not just something our parents remind us to do, it also happens to be good for our health. Posture describes the position of the body in space, but the realities of how we stand and move in day-to-day life are much more complex. Healthy postures encourage proper alignment of body structures, while unhealthy postures can lead to a host of issues, including muscle and joint pain, balance impairment and decreased mobility. Awareness of the body’s proper static and dynamic position is essential to maintaining a healthy spine.
The body’s main support system is the spine, which consists of three sections. The cervical spine supports the weight of the head and connects it to the shoulders, enabling us to turn our heads from side to side as well as up and down. The thoracic
spine stabilizes the rib cage, which protects the vital organs. The lumbar spine consists of thicker, more robust vertebrae, as they are the main load bearers and enable us to rotate our bodies and bend forward and to the side.
Muscle tightness or joint immobility can shift the spine out of its ideal positioning, causing postural dysfunction. A recent study published in the journal Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science estimates that 66 percent of the population is living with forward head posture (FHP), a cervical spine dysfunction that occurs when the head moves forward in front of the body. FHP can lead to headaches, migraines and jaw pain. Thoracic kyphosis, a rounded upper back, reportedly impacts 20 to 50 percent of the population and impairs numerous functions, including digestion and breathing. The lumbar spine is at particularly high risk for joint disease as both lumbar muscle strength and pelvic mobility decrease in sedentary individuals. Low back and pelvic immobility are contributing factors for the estimated 103 million individuals worldwide that live with lumbar spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that may cause pain or numbness in the legs.
STEP ONE: IDENTIFICATION
In her book Rethink Your Position, biomechanist Katy Bowman recommends that we pay attention to a few common signals the body sends out to alert us to an imbalanced weight distribution, including aches in the feet or low back
and tension of the shoulders or neck. “Good alignment isn’t about any one fixed position, but a healthy range of positions,” she says. “By focusing less on memorizing postures and more on learning about load on parts of the body, you can optimize your positioning for many different activities.”
Bowman recommends a quick and easy way to self-assess if a postural imbalance is present and, if so, to identify where the imbalance begins: “The body’s joints stack in a vertical line. You can use a plumb line to indicate where your parts are supposed to be. If you take a string with a weight at the end and drop it down from your shoulder, it should line up with the hip, knee and ankle on the way down.”
Dr. Krista Burns, co-author of The Posture Principles and founder of the American Posture Institute, recommends a twominute exercise routine, performed while standing against a wall, that addresses each segment of the spine. Repeat each exercise five times.
1. Neck retraction: Push the head forward away from the wall as far as possible, then pull it back so the base of the skull contacts the wall. Keep the eyes parallel to the horizon, rather than looking up toward the sky.
2. Posture angel: Stand with the back against the wall, elbows bent and tucked in close to the waist. Keeping the back of the hands against the wall, reach up as far as possible then slowly lower back to starting position. This movement, which is like making a snow angel while standing, should be felt between the shoulder blades when performed correctly.
3. Pelvic tilt: Arch the back so there is a small space between the wall and the lower spine, then tuck in the tail, flattening the spine against the wall and closing that space. This exercise helps initiate movement into the lower joints.
The key to maintaining a healthy posture is frequent movement, which can include an hourly stretch break or a bi-hourly
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range-of-motion routine to move muscles and joints throughout the day. To make postural exercises a habit, physical therapist and integrative health coach Margie Bissinger recommends pairing an exercise routine with something that is already done multiple times a day–for example, mealtime. “People are busy, so it is hard to always dedicate that mental space to awareness of their head or back position,” she states. “When they pair it with something they’re routinely doing, it becomes a habit, and that is when the mental load of the task starts to go away.”
Cristina Parker holds a doctorate in physical therapy. She is a researcher, health content writer, educator and clinician specializing in neurologic disorders, limb-loss rehabilitation and adaptive sports techniques.
“I want YOU to Feel Good Again”
by Karen Shaw Becker, DVM
Dogs are natural athletes that leap on and off things multiple times a day, usually without incident. That’s why many people don’t realize that, like humans, dogs can sustain injuries, including soft tissue trauma, such as cuts and bruises; back injuries or slipped vertebral discs; sprains; and broken legs.
Most active dogs that frolic outdoors will get the occasional scrape, cut or bruise. These common (usually minor) injuries can be prevented by ensuring that the areas they frequent are safe, contained and hazard-free. Broken legs, on the other hand, are more serious and typically do not result from normal, or even vigorous, high-intensity exercise. Bone fractures are generally caused by a sudden impact or great force to the body, such as being hit by a car or falling a long distance. They are most often seen in older pets and excitable risk-takers. The best way to prevent a dog from breaking a leg is to make sure it is under control at all times, especially outdoors.
Back injuries, slipped discs and sprains, including canine cruciate ligament injuries, often occur in poorly conditioned dogs. For example, if a pup has been indoors most of the winter, its muscles have lost tone and atrophied. This also applies to “weekend warriors” that exercise and play at high intensity with their owners only on Saturdays and Sundays.
Studies show that well-conditioned muscles can begin to lose their tone and strength in a matter of days. This can set the stage for an injury if the activity level suddenly jumps significantly, so start by gradually improving a dog’s fitness level. The minimum amount of exercise needed to maintain muscle tone is 20 minutes three times weekly, and as pets age, this amount increases. Aim for 40 minutes of rigorous walking or running every day. Consistency is essential for a dog’s muscles and ligaments to stay strong and resilient. This will keep the dog fit and better able to avoid strains, sprains and other injuries. Warming up before exercise is very important. Walk and encourage the dog to stretch its limbs before engaging in more intense exercise, especially with aging dogs.
Cervical disc and neck injuries are often the result of collar strain. Dogs should be trained to walk beside their handler and heel on the leash. However, even the most well-trained dog will occasionally jump forward suddenly, causing the collar to pull tightly against their neck.
As dogs leap forward in excitement, they pull all the slack out of the leash and apply a great deal of pressure from the collar to their neck and cervical area, potentially resulting in an injury to the cervical disc or other neck problems. Symptoms can include a hesitance to move or lower the neck to eat or drink, and crying outbursts when the head or neck area are touched. Occasionally there can also be lameness in a front leg with this type of injury.
For dogs that habitually pull and whose leash behavior isn’t able to be improved, a harness, Gentle Leader-type head collar or other similar equipment can help distribute the dog’s body weight evenly across the restraint and alleviate the pressure on their neck.
If a dog’s leg muscles aren’t toned, if its tendons and ligaments aren’t stretched and strong, and if its core muscles haven’t been worked and can’t do a good job holding the frame solidly in place, then a sudden burst of activity, even at home, can lead to injuries. Depending on the geographical location, it is much easier to keep a dog fit during spring and summer months, but the goal should be to keep them exercised year-round. If harsh winters discourage outdoor activities, consider visiting an indoor dog park; exposing them to hydrotherapy or a warm-water dog pool; enrolling them in indoor agility, track training or nose work (a growing sport that encourages dogs to follow their natural hunting instincts); or taking them out on a cross-country skiing adventure.
Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. To learn more, visit DrKarenBecker.com.
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Defense
Metabolism is the process by which the foods and drinks we consume are converted into energy. We may not notice the cellular mechanisms that transform fat and glucose into the oomph in our step, but when they start to wane, we definitely know something is wrong. We may feel lethargic and weak, our brains may get foggy or we may start putting on weight around the belly, with blood pressure, blood glucose and triglyceride levels on the rise. In most cases, modifying our diet is the most powerful way to regain vitality and get those biomarkers back on track.
“Metabolic imbalance occurs when the body stores fat but can’t access it or burn it as efficiently,” says Alan Christianson, a naturopathic physician and author of The Metabolism Reset Diet: Repair Your Liver, Stop Storing Fat and Lose Weight Naturally. “In one year, our bodies manage about 1 million calories in and out. We never get exactly what we need on any day, so we must be able to store and release energy in a healthy fashion. However, people get better at storing and poorer at releasing. This is a big part of gradual weight gain and accompanying fatigue.”
Christianson describes good metabolic health as having steady energy levels and maintaining a good body weight. “When there’s too little energy available and the body can’t make energy that well, I see symptoms of metabolic imbalance as mental fatigue and poor memory, less muscular endurance, less recovery from exercise, weight gain and resistance to weight loss,” he explains. “If not addressed, metabolic imbalance can develop into obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.”
According to Christianson, certain lifestyle choices can throw our metabolism out of balance, including the overconsumption of carbohydrates, processed foods and caffeine; frequent snacking and latenight meals; and poor sleep routines. Too much stress creates a hormonal cascade that promotes storing fat instead of using it.
James Forleo, a doctor of chiropractic and author of Health Is Simple, Disease Is Complicated, recommends the elimination of certain foods that wreak havoc on our metabolism: “The inflammatory agents in much of the food consumed in the Standard American Diet—high-glycemic refined carbohydrates, high-fructose corn syrup and other sugars, and hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats—are the biggest offenders of metabolic health.”
“The key mechanism to correct and maintain metabolic health is helping the liver to function well. Once corrected, it is not difficult to maintain metabolic health if people eat reasonably healthy,” Christianson advises. “The liver is the main site for storing the body’s fuel. It does this in the forms of glycogen and triglycerides. When things go wrong, there’s too much of one relative to the other. We need some glycogen, which comes from carbohydrates, to burn triglycerides—kind of like how you need kindling to burn a log. The problem is triglyceride buildup in the liver.”
Fixing the liver is the central focus of Christianson’s 28-day metabolism reset. “To correct a fatty liver, you need adequate protein and adequate nutrients, but a low enough amount of total carbohydrates and healthy fats,” he says. “You also need adequate levels of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that we get from the food we eat. My metabolism reset guides you in eating less refined and processed foods, and more real, nutritious food; pairing carbohydrates with protein; exercising; managing stress levels; and avoiding sugar.”
Metabolic Balance, a German-based company with certified nutrition coaches around the globe, helps people optimize their health with personalized diet plans and follow-up coaching sessions. “The program was created by Dr. Wolf Funfack, a specialist in internal and nutritional medicine, whose research revealed that every human body can produce all the hormones and enzymes it needs for healthy metabolism. We need to give it the necessary nutrients with the right food, which is precisely what Metabolic Balance does,” says Sylvia Egel, CEO and director of coaching and education.
“Based on an individual’s personal medical history and blood levels, we determine what substances the body lacks to produce all the enzymes and hormones necessary for their bodily functions,” she explains. “The personal roadmap recommends the right combination of foods to keep the various bodily functions in balance. The foods aren’t based on their caloric content, but rather on their essential components such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and the relationship between carbohydrates, fats and proteins.”
According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, participation in the Metabolic Balance program led to long-term health improvements due to a high degree of adherence by the participants. According to the researchers, “The emphasis of any dietary program should be set on both the aspect of nutrition as well as the aspect of motivation.”
Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for 20 years.
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
1 lb ground pork or chicken
1 Tbsp finely minced garlic
1 Tbsp finely minced shallot
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
12-15 stalks of lemongrass
Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients, except the lemongrass stalks, in a bowl and mix with hands or a fork. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight), allowing the flavors to develop.
Peel the outer layer of the lemongrass stalks. Rinse in water and dry. Take one handful of the ground mixture and wrap it around the end of a lemongrass stalk, gently pressing and molding the meat around the stalk. Repeat with the remaining meat and place on a baking sheet. Grill skewers over coals or on a gas grill for about 6 to 10 minutes until cooked through. Make sure to rub the grill with a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to ensure the skewers don’t stick to the grate.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
1 cup vegetables (mushrooms, leeks, onion or cauliflower), chopped
1 chicken breast, diced
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp mild or medium curry powder
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground ginger
1 garlic clove
Vegetable stock
If using cauliflower, parboil the florets and keep the water they were boiled in. Heat the spices in a dry pan until fragrant. Add garlic and vegetables and coat with spices. Add some oil and pour in some vegetable stock (or the cauliflower water) to deglaze the pan. Cook covered for a few minutes until spices and liquid are well combined and the vegetables are coated evenly. Add the diced chicken. Simmer until the chicken is cooked, stirring regularly. Add more vegetable stock or water for a thinner sauce. Serve with some toasted rye bread to soak up the juices.
Recipes and photos courtesy of Metabolic Balance
YIELD: 1 SERVING
1½ cup arugula
¼ cup olives, pitted
1 Tbsp chopped shallots
1 mango
Balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Peel the mango, remove the flesh from the core and cut into small cubes. Purée the olives with balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Purée some of the mango cubes with the dressing and set aside the remainder. Add the shallots to the dressing. Wash, clean and dry the arugula. Mix in the dressing and sprinkle the remaining mango cubes on top. Pair this salad with any protein, such as a fish filet.
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Photo courtesy of Metabolic Balance
by Marlaina Donato
Pulling weeds from the garden, deadheading the zinnias, digging our toes into wet sand and picking up sustenance at the local farmers market bring us back to our primal rhythm. We are more inclined to throw our cares to the wind and lean out of life’s open car window on the way to nowhere in particular. We do not need a plane ticket to exotic shores to find our bliss, only curiosity to explore our own backyards and fall in love with our familiar, well-worn lives.
Timed perfectly, each blossom on the wayside and in the fields has its own hour and medicine. Wildflower wisdom teaches us that we, too, can flourish on seemingly impossible terrain despite fierce opposition from those that do not recognize our value. The blessing of birdsong reminds us that our own survival game can be equally as beautiful when we embody our unique soul-note. Getting up a little earlier can lower our risk of depression and give us a front-row seat to the dew-covered world.
Summer is a splashy reward after winter wears out its welcome. Spring barely has time to shake blossoms from her hair before we plunge headfirst into summer plans: vacations, barbecues and home improvement. As birds and humans go about their inspired tasks, bees and butterflies dive into their own nectarous agenda. There is no arguing that we all wake up feeling a little bit younger as the days burn longer.
June beckons us to light an outdoor fire on the solstice and watch fireflies fall in love in light codes. At full power, the sun represents the sacred masculine and nature’s resurrection. We are invited to dance with the Green Man, Europe’s ancient symbol of rebirth peering from dappled forests and over church doorways. We are invited to schedule some actual repose into our vacations, even if we just take a holiday at home with a good book under a breezy tree. We are invited to live.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.
As the windows to the world, our eyes are sensory organs that work overtime. They allow us to take in light, see what is before us and send information for the brain to process. While regular eye exams are important, preventative and proactive maintenance is key to achieving healthy vision.
Dr. Marc Grossman co-founded NaturalEyeCare.com to educate professionals and the public about complementary eye care, which can supplement traditional methods. As both a licensed optometrist and acupuncturist, he believes that the health of the eye depends on the well-being of a person’s entire body. “I treat the person behind the eye, not just the condition. When a patient comes in with glaucoma or a cataract, I look at their history and lifestyle choices to see what could be contributing to it,” he says.
Proper nutrition is crucial for proper eye function. Grossman recommends what he calls a “vision diet” based on the Mediterranean diet, which cuts down on sugar and prioritizes
organic, low-alkaline foods, leafy greens and fresh juices. “Carotenoids, found in red or yellow fruits and vegetables, are vital antioxidants for eye health. They include lutein, the yellow pigment in the macula that protects against certain eye diseases, and zeaxanthin, which helps avoid macular degeneration. These nutrients also absorb harmful blue light and are anti-inflammatory. The presence of free radicals and lack of antioxidants in the eyes is directly related to the incidence of many types of eye disease, including macular degeneration. Consuming antioxidants from food is ideal and can be enhanced with supplements such as CoQ10, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and curcumin,” Grossman explains.
“Regular aerobic activity combined with meditation or another mindfulness practice is ideal to maintain and even improve vision,” he says. “Thirty minutes of brisk walking or another activity you enjoy four days a week can reduce the
risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other common eye conditions. Qigong, mindful breathing and yoga help the whole body reset and are low-impact ways to improve circulation.”
Proactively retraining the brain can substantially reduce vision dysfunction. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a pioneer in neuro-optometry, helps adults and children unlock their highest potential by remediating visual developmental delays that impact reading and learning, honing visual skills to elevate sports performance and reorganizing the “visual brain” after head injuries.
“We need to look at eyesight and vision as separate entities. While eyesight is the ability to simply see things like letters on a chart, vision is how your brain derives meaning from the world around us and directs the appropriate action,” explains the Maryland-based optometrist.
Through individualized vision therapy, Appelbaum’s patients learn how to train their eyes, brain and body to work together more efficiently. “Most functional vision problems are actually brain problems, and vision therapy teaches you how to use your eyes to retrain your brain. Through a series of exercises, we enhance skills like focus, depth perception, 3D awareness, eye movement control and visualization,” he explains. The first step is a thorough evaluation, and then, if indicated, personalized treatment is prescribed with doctor-supervised sessions in the office that are reinforced with exercises at home.
Appelbaum also helps professional and amateur athletes more accurately connect to their sport through vision. “From an early age we’re told to ‘keep your eye on the ball,’ but not taught how to
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do that,” Appelbaum asserts. “Sports vision therapy trains athletes to optimize critical components in their visual processing and reaction. We work with baseball and basketball players, gymnasts, skiers, even fencers who learn to coordinate and visualize the optimal movement in relation to their environment, equipment and teammates. With repeated exercises and selfcorrection, athletes learn to enhance visual reaction time, depth perception, visuospatial knowledge and hand-eye coordination."
Monitoring screen time is vital to resting overworked eyes. “As a direct result of excessive screen time, we’re seeing a dramatic increase of nearsightedness in young children, as well as headaches, fatigue, eyestrain and motion sensitivity,” Appelbaum says. “I encourage patients to follow the 20/20/20 rule and take a minimum of a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something at least 20 feet away. This allows both the brain and eyes to disengage from the near visual stress and relax. In general, looking at larger screens that are further away will also lessen the strain.”
Taking a holistic approach to overall health and wellness will not only preserve but can also enhance our ability to see. “People should discuss visual issues and symptoms with their doctor and seek out functional vision testing, as vision could be the limiting factor in a number of conditions,” Appelbaum advises. “With mindful visual training and healthy lifestyle choices, we can maximize our vision and our life’s potential.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
by Sheila Julson
“Vote with your pocketbook,” the saying goes, prompting consumers to buy parkas from planet-friendly Patagonia or socks by Bombas, which donates a pair to homeless shelters for every pair purchased. When choosing stocks and mutual funds, a growing number of investors don’t just want to get a good return on their investment, they also seek to support corporations that spread kindness, protect (or do not pollute) the environment and support women, minorities and LGBTQ+ people.
This year, the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ) reported that environmental, social and corporate governance investing “represents more than $8 trillion in assets under management in the U.S. alone, and people expect the worldwide number to surpass $50 trillion by the end of 2025.”
These types of mutual funds can yield returns akin to conventional funds, says Michael Young, director of education and outreach for the U.S. Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment (US SIF), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit. Some industries, such as oil and gas, may be more eco-challenged than others, but companies can and should make best efforts relevant to their industries, he says, suggesting that investors review a company’s corporate social responsibility report, which provides insight into their environmental and social practices.
Young recommends that new investors start by determining which social and environmental issues matter most to them. From there, tools such as the free US SIF sustainable investing course (ussif.org/courses_individualinvestors)
offer an overview of sustainable investing, as well as investment options and strategies. He also encourages a visit to As You Sow (AsYouSow.org/invest-your-values) to help investors find the companies and mutual funds that align with their social and environmental principles, and to steer clear of those that don’t.
“Most people invest in companies through fund structures via retirement plans or online brokerages,” Young explains. “Through As You Sow, they have search tools that help interested investors determine if they own funds that include companies in fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing or other industries one might not want to invest in.”
Robin Diedrich, the director of sustainable investing for Edward Jones, asserts that their division arose over the past few years as a result of client demand. The analysts in her division evaluate whether the stated sustainability and financial objectives of a fund are actually being met, using vetting tools like Morningstar (Morningstar.com/topics/ sustainable-investing). “Morningstar has become much more rigid in their methodology. They’re trying to make sure that what’s being labeled as sustainable is truly that,” she says.
Diedrich advises investors to use the same criteria that they would use with any fund,
whether traditional or sustainable. “It’s important that you look at a sustainable fund in that same way, because it is an investment with your money,” she says. “Ultimately, it needs to be driven by clients’ personal choices, as well as their financial goals.”
Green Century Funds (GreenCentury.com) is a mutual funds company that engages corporations on behalf of its shareholders to seek specific outcomes. Young says Green Century Funds’ efforts worked with companies like Starbucks, Conagra Foods and Hormel Foods to eliminate deforestation from their supply chains. “There are ways to leverage your dollar to make an impact, because as an individual, you likely couldn’t convince a large corporation to do that,” Young notes.
Ceres, a nonprofit headquartered in Boston, works with investors, companies and capital market influencers to drive action on sustainability issues. It is the co-founder of numerous sustainability enterprises, including Net Zero Asset Managers, a global initiative through which large institutional investors have committed to support net zero greenhouse gas emissions across
the economy by 2050 and interim emissions reductions by 2030. Similarly, many pension funds are signatories to the Paris Aligned Asset Owners, meaning that they also support net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Because of the sheer volume of their trades, institutional investors and pension fund managers have a great deal of clout and are able to influence corporate leaders to take environmental stewardship seriously. Their commitment to net zero greenhouse gas emissions means that corporations are pressed hard by these investors to eliminate emissions by the stated deadlines.
“As the climate crisis has worsened over the years with extreme weather disasters causing multi-billion-dollar losses, disrupting supply chains and affecting corporate business operations, investors have increasingly recognized climate change as a financial risk. Most institutional investors now analyze climate-related financial risks and opportunities and incorporate those risks and related sustainability risks into their decision making,” says Kirsten Snow Spalding, vice president of the Ceres Investor Network.
Courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength.
~Theodore Roosevelt
THURSDAY, JUNE 1
Do Less and Accomplish More. 6:30-8 p.m. Learn all about the Spiritual Law of Least Effort, where acceptance, responsibility and effortlessness can bring you into the flow of life with ease. Led by Linda Bronn in person at The Liminal Studio, 696 Amity Rd., Bethany, CT. Register: LindaBronn1111@gmail.com. More info: Lauri@LauriIngram.com, LauriIngram. com/live-events.
SATURDAY, JUNE 3
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class . Saturdays, 9-10 am. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
SUNDAY, JUNE 4
Crystals, Chakras and Pendulums. 10 a.m.-noon. In this experiential workshop, learn about the chakras, crystal energy and how to use a pendulum. Experience a chakra manifestation meditation, and practice crystal chakra balancing on yourself and others! Pendulums and crystal kits available for purchase. $45 for workshop, in person at Harmony Yoga, Stamford, CT. Register: Lauri@LauriIngram.com, LauriIngram.com/Live-Events.
Holistic Strategies to Reduce and Manage Your Stress. 8-9 p.m. Via Zoom with Renee Edge of Edge to Health. Holistic strategies for a clearer mind and healthier body. In this workshop, you’ll discover what stress is and how it manifests differently in each person, the key to managing stress, as well as 12 holistic stress reduction techniques. Info, RSVP: 860-681-3427, EdgetoHealth.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 6
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class. Tuesdays, noon-1 p.m. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
THURSDAY, JUNE 8
Shamanic Sound Healing Meditation. 6-7 p.m. Every other Thursday. Join Bradford Tilden for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation with his voice and crystal bowls. Relax, recharge and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind and field. Bring a blanket, chair or yoga mat. Register: tinyurl.com/BridgeSoundBrad. Walk-ins welcome. $20-$35. The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St., Farmington, CT. (860) 404-2578. BridgeHAC.com.
Do Less and Accomplish More. 6:30-8 p.m. Learn all about the Spiritual Law of Least Effort, where acceptance, responsibility and effortlessness can bring you into the flow of life with ease. Led by Linda Bronn in person at The Liminal Studio, 696 Amity Rd., Bethany, CT. Register: LindaBronn1111@ gmail.com. More info: Lauri@LauriIngram.com, LauriIngram.com/live-events.
Sponsored by Natural Awakenings magazine
Sunday, November 5 ● 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Come experience a day of spiritual & creative enlightenment
Intuitive Readers ● Aura Photos & Crystals
Tibetan Singing Bowls ● Healings
Handcrafted Jewelry, Soaps, Oils Reiki Circle ● Spiritual Art 2 rooms of dynamic speakers and much more!
Wyndham Southbury, 1284 Strongtown Rd., Southbury
$6 Admission ● $1 off with this coupon VENDOR SPACE STILL AVAILABLE
203-733-6560 ● Cryours87@yahoo.com
SATURDAY, JUNE 10
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class . Saturdays, 9-10 am. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
Geocaching 101. 2-3 p.m. Join ranger Dawn from Ansonia Nature Center for an introduction to geocaching. Learn the terminology, how to log caches and its history as well as a hike to find some hidden surprises. Wear appropriate foot gear and bug spray. Limited to 30 participants. Family-friendly. Free. Register: AnsNatureCtr@AnsoniaCT.org. 10 Deerfield Ln., Ansonia, CT.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JUNE 10-11
Universal White Time Gemstone Healing 1 Certification. 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Learn to heal yourself, others, animals and the environment with this rare, ancient universal knowledge. Learn 5 gemstone layouts for the physical body and chakras. Initiation, certification included. All levels of experience welcome. The Center for Higher Living. $475 includes a basic stone kit. Register: tinyurl.com/ UWTGemstone1Register. Contact Bradford: 860830-5841, Info@CrysalMusicHealing.com.
SUNDAY, JUNE 11
Connection Between Trauma and Malnutrition
8-9 p.m. Via Zoom with Renee Edge of Edge to Health. This workshop will explore the connection between trauma and malnutrition, and how those impact both the body and brain to alter behavior and mood. We will look at the impact of trauma on the gut and how the foods we tend to crave cause harm. Info, RSVP: 860-681-3427, EdgetoHealth.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 13
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class. Tuesdays, noon-1 p.m. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
Monthly White Time Healing Circle. 7-9 p.m. Round-robin style healing circle featuring White Time Energy and Gemstone healing. June featured gemstone layout is Connecting with Animals. Facilitated by Bradford Tilden. $30. The Center for Higher Living 130 Webster Square Rd., Berlin, CT. 860-830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com, Register: tinyurl.com/WhiteTimeCircle.
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class Saturdays, 9-10 am. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
Crystal Grids for Everyday. 1-2:30 p.m. In this experiential workshop, learn about crystal energy, intention and how to create a crystal grid to support your intentions. Participants will have the opportunity to create a grid and receive a discount on any crystal purchases. $47 for workshop, in person at The Liminal Studio, 696 Amity Rd., Bethany, CT. Register: Lauri@LauriIngram.com, LauriIngram.com/Live-Events.
Astronomy: Star Hopping. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Star hopping is a technique that uses bright stars as a guide to find fainter objects. Join ranger Jeremy from Ansonia Nature Center for a night of relaxing under the stars. You will learn all about the different constellations in the night sky, their importance and how to use them as a tool to navigate the sky. Familyfriendly. Free. Register: AnsNatureCtr@AnsoniaCT. org. 10 Deerfield Ln., Ansonia, CT.
TUESDAY, JUNE 20
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class. Tuesdays, noon-1 p.m. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21
Summer Solstice and Sundials. 10-11 a.m. Join Ansonia Nature Center on the longest day of the year when the sun is at the highest position in the sky to learn about the ancient way of keeping time. You will go outside and create your own human sundial in the park. Family-friendly program. Free. Register: AnsNatureCtr@AnsoniaCT.org. 10 Deerfield Ln., Ansonia.
THURSDAY, JUNE 22
Sound Healing Meditation. 6-7 p.m. Every other Thursday. Join guest sound healer, Katie Cavanaugh, for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation. Relax, recharge and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind and field. Bring a blanket, chair or yoga mat. Walk-ins welcome. $20-$35. The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St., Farmington, CT. 860404-2578. BridgeHAC.com. Register: tinyurl.com/ BridgeSoundBrad.
SATURDAY, JUNE 24
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class Saturdays, 9-10 am. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/drop-in, class cards also
available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
Using a Map and Compass. 2-3 p.m. Join Ranger Evelyn from Ansonia Nature Center for this introductory skill–building class on interpreting maps and reading a compass. Participants will learn how to use these tools to navigate around the property. Ages 12 and up. Dress for the weather. Must register in advance at AnsNatureCtr@AnsoniaCT.org. Space is limited. 10 Deerfield Ln., Ansonia, CT.
TUESDAY, JUNE 27
Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement class. Tuesdays, noon-1 p.m. Learn to move with more ease with Carol Meade. Class rates: $15/ drop-in, class cards also available. 15 South Elm St., Wallingford, CT. Contact: 203-415-8666, Massage2Movement.com.
SUNDAY, JULY 9
Reiki Level 1/1st Degree. Learn Reiki for treatment of self and others. Ample practice time for table, chair and self treatments. Will learn benefits, precepts and history of Reiki treatment as well as receive certificate to practice Reiki upon completion of all classes. The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center: 605 Main St., Middletown, CT. Contact Eileen: 203-314-5401, eilande@comcast.net, ReikiWithEileenAnderson.com.
MONDAY, JULY 10
Introduction to UWT Gemstone Healing. 6:309 p.m. This introductory workshop is intended to
inspire you to live with more confidence, support, happiness and joy with the help of crystals. A 12-page e-book and stone kit valued at $55 is included. $44. Online via ZOOM (link provided upon registering). Register by June 26: tinyurl.com/ UWTGHWorkshopJuly2023. Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841, Info@CrysalMusicHealing.com.
SUNDAY, JULY 16
Reiki Level 1/1st Degree. Learn Reiki for treatment of self and others. Ample practice time for table, chair and self treatments. Will learn benefits, precepts and history of Reiki treatment as well as receive certificate to practice Reiki upon completion of all classes. The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center: 605 Main St., Middletown, CT. Contact Eileen: 203-314-5401, eilande@comcast. net, ReikiWithEileenAnderson.com.
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, JULY 19-23
Adirondack Canoe Trip . Five days/nights in the Adirondacks. This lake trip offers connection with nature and self, community building, fun. Time in camp for relaxation, excursions in canoes or hikes, community, quiet time. Food and equipment provided. Bring your personal sleeping bag and pad. Cost $450. Held at private New Milford island retreat center. Info, RSVP to Jody Grose: 203-731-7755, ReturntotheFire.com, HealingBear11@gmail.com.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, JULY 29-30
Father & Son Adventure Weekend. This weekend provides fathers and sons (8‐16-years old) experiences to joyfully celebrate and deepen their relationship. Group challenges, games, stories around the fire, play, island theater, free time, swimming, canoeing. Cost: $325. Held at private New Milford island retreat center. Info, RSVP to Jody Grose: 203-731-7755, ReturntotheFire.com, HealingBear11@gmail.com.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 5-6
Men’s Weekend - “The Invitation.” Taking the challenges you face in a culture of isolation within a community that can offer support, connection, witnessing and brotherhood. Inspire and engage men to access and integrate their authentic power while embracing freedom and self‐expression. Cost: $375. Held at private New Milford island retreat center. Info, RSVP to Jody Grose: 203-731-7755, ReturntotheFire. com, HealingBear11@gmail.com.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 26-27
Father & Daughter Bonding Weekend. This weekend provides fathers and daughters (7‐16-years old) rich, playful experiences that create a bond and memories! Group challenges, games, stories around the fire, play, island theater, free time, swimming, canoeing. Held at private New Milford island retreat center. Cost: $325. Info, RSVP to Jody Grose: 203-731-7755, ReturntotheFire.com, HealingBear11@gmail.com.
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. DEADLINE: All listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication.
KC CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS
Kevin Healy, DC
17 Woodland Rd., Madison, CT 203-245-9317
KevinHealy@sbcglobal.net
DrHealMe.com
Applied kinesiology is a neurological evaluation to find and treat dysfunction, addressing causes instead of chasing pains. Dr. Healy tests if a therapy alleviates dysfunction, finding immediate answers as to which provides the most improvement. Chiropractic, craniosacral, myofascial and acupressure are among the therapies Dr. Healy uses. Generally, no single cure exists as disease and dysfunction typically involve multiple areas of the body. The goal of any therapy— physical, chemical or emotional—is to improve function; a combination of therapies typically yields the best results. See ad on page 27.
KATHY STALTER
Sanaré Wellness, LLC
Southington, CT 860-600-0106
Kathy@Sanare.Life
Sanare.life
The Future of Energy Medicine is here! This 24-unit Energy Enhancement System creates multiple bioactive, regenerative energy fields, including scalar waves and biophotons, that can assist your body’s ability to repair and heal itself from disease. The body can become capable of rejuvenating and recalibrating itself back to homeostasis. Appointment only.
LAURI INGRAM
The Liminal Studio
696 Amity Rd., Unit B1, Bethany, CT
203-435-5650
Lauri@LauriIngram.com
LauriIngram.com
Ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, Lauri specializes in custom ceremonies for those who are spiritual, but not religious. Lauri creates meaningful and transformative wedding and commitment ceremonies, life celebrations, and baby blessings events to mark other life events.
Holy Fire Reiki Master
203-338-1100
DCruz88@yahoo.com
TenderLovingReiki.com
Holy Fire® Reiki is a new form of Reiki that was introduced about three years ago. It is both powerful and gentle, and provides purification, healing, empowerment and guidance. Certified by the International Center for Reiki Training, July 2022. See ad on page 19.
Lynda Mettler, ACC
Transformation Coach, Reiki Master Quiet the mind to connect with the soul. Lynda@YourWisdomCoaching.com
Channeling Your Wisdom Coaching is a whole-person approach that combines IFS “parts work,” life coaching, meditation and Reiki energy to cultivate compassion, heal old wounds and create meaningful change.
CT THERMOGRAPHY
April Beaman
Main Office: 11 Melrose Dr., Farmington, CT Satellite Offices: Glastonbury, CT; Hamden, CT; Westport, CT; Hadley, MA 860-415-1150
Info@CTThermography.com
CTThermography.com
CT Thermography specializes in medical thermal imaging, also known as thermography. Thermography is the use and study of thermograms for detecting and measuring variations of heat emitted from the surface of the body. A thermogram is produced by a highly sensitive, infrared camera that accurately maps temperature variations which are then analyzed by Board Certified physicians known as thermologists. Thermography screenings are effective to assess and monitor whole body health and can aid in the detection of inflammation, disease processes and cancer. Furthermore, this health screening tool is noninvasive, radiation-free and does not involve any contact with the body. See ad on page 15.
KATHERINE DEL PRATO, MSN, FNP-BC Owner of LK Optimal Wellness
Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Special Focus in Functional Medicine
203-439-6796
Info@LKoptimalwellness.com
LKoptimalwellness.com
Looking for a different approach to healthcare with individualized attention? Using evidence-based medicine, I partner with motivated women to heal naturally from fatigue, pain and digestive distress so that they can have improved energy and quality of life. Together, we will identify the root causes to your vague symptoms and restore gut, mood and hormone imbalances. Optimize health & prevent disease!
A
Jill Andrzejewski, LMT, RMT, Psychic 3490 Whitney Ave., Ste. 205, Hamden, CT 203-909-1108
JillaMomentinTimeMassage@gmail.com
AMomentInTimeMassage.org
We partner to set physical, mental and spiritual goals to empower you. I advocate gentle stretching, crystals and breath work to maintain grounded, calm feelings. Services: massage; Reiki; chakra balancing; angel tarot, oracle card and tea leaf readings; group events/classes. A Moment In Time Treasures items available for purchase. Appointment only.
EAGLE FLIGHT HEALING, LLC
Hamden, CT
203-535-8849
Info@EagleFlightHealing.com
EagleFlightHealing.com
My service provides transformative energy work helping clients resolve the traumas, pain, shame and struggles of the past. They experience new self-value and mattering, feel more vitality, happiness, and joy with which to enjoy life and dream the future.
TERRI O’BRIEN
MasterJoyandSuccess.com
Terri@MasterJoyandSuccess.com
My specialty is using my fear and hypnotherapy training to produce audio and instructional courses to rewire your internal mindset, tell yourself a better story and stomp our fear. Vastly improve your life and productivity by using our inspirational, creative and confidence-building courses. Visit the MindSHOP on our website to experience the sample audio course, Breathe, Relax and Let Go.
BRADFORD TILDEN, MM, CMT UWT
Universal White Time (UWT)
In-Person, Zoom sessions
860-830-5841
Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com
CrystalMusicHealing.com
Are you tired and frustrated? Experience the energy and benefits of UWT. Release anxiety, stress and trauma. Receive support for your spiritual development through gemstone healing, energy work, sound and guided visualization. Schedule a free discovery call today! Bradford also offers certification course for energy healers who want to learn grow more.
SHIKOBA WELLNESS AND HEALING
Angela Stevens, BA, CH, RYT, RMT 23 Saybrook Rd., Essex, CT ShikobaEssex@gmail.com
ShikobaEssex.com
We understand that each individual is on their own unique life journey. We foster individualism through classes that meet you where you are. We immerse our clients in wellness, healing and self-discovery. striving to provide inspiration and joy in a non-intimidating environment that ensures all feel at ease. Offerings at Shikoba include yoga, meditation, hypnosis, Reiki, spiritual guidance and healing. Private classes and wellness packages available as well.
Children need models rather than critics.
~Joseph Joubert
