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Special Edition

Awakening Humanity Near-Death Experiences Proof of Afterlife

Sleep Sharing Benefits of a Family Bed

First-Aid Kit for Pets All-Natural Home Health Care

December 2013 | South Central Wisconsin Edition

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letterfrompublisher

contact us Publishe/Editor Danelle Pretasky Design/Production Danelle Pretasky Distribution Donald Beran Patty Penner Martine Davis Koari Nelson To contact Natural Awakenings Phone: 608-381-1223 Fax: 1-866-447-2158 Publisher@AwakeMadison.com www.AwakeMadison.com © 2012 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 for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

Dear Santa

Between your busy schedule and mine, a whole year flew by, and i’m finally catching up with you. I have a few personal things on my holiday gift list, but we’ll post those to your Facebook page for your elves to review. I’d rather use this chance to ask you to please share some gift giving ideas with your vast network of good people everywhere.

It’s been a rough year, Santa, and you must be very sad to see the effects of the Earth’s warming climate. In this time of celebration, we’re sobered to think how difficult life has suddenly become for many in our human family. Millions lost their homes and possessions this past autumn, and their jobs literally blew away. Please ask everyone you meet to share their blessings with people just like them who are struggling to put their lives in order. Countless families are suffering in the aftermath of the Philippine typhoon. Some of our close neighbors in Illinois were devastated by the November tornadoes. And let’s not forget the people in Haiti and Japan who are still recovering from their life-changing disasters that are out of the news, but still very real.

Santa, it’s easy for everyone to help. The SALVATION ARMY has a tornado fund: text STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation, or donate online at Donate.

SalvationArmyUSA.org/usc/2013-storms. A quick Google search will bring up more places accepting donations.

For broader disaster relief to U.S. tornados and Typhoon Haiyan victims, the AMERICAN RED CROSS is accepting $10 text donations to 90999 by texting REDCROSS. Or consider a direct typhoon aid donation to CARE at Care.org, to the PHILIPPINE RED CROSS or to any number of local groups. And Santa, please remind everyone to do a little research at CharityNavigator.org before sending money to lesser-known organizations.

The holidays are also a time of joy, and I want to share our uplifting December issue with you, Santa. We’re leaving you a few copies of Natural Awakenings next to your organic milk and cookies. Please give a copy to Mrs. Claus, because we know she’ll enjoy our Conscious Eating section, which includes lots of yummy recipes for the holidays.

One final thought for you, Santa. If, while making your rounds this year, you find you’re missing a few gifts for all the good girls and boys, please be sure to visit our Natural Awakenings advertisers and distributors. They’ll help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Wishing you a peaceful and magical holiday season, and a world of happiness in 2014!

Danelle Pretasky, Publisher

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy based ink.

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contents

6 newsbriefs

8 healthbriefs

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.

10 globalbriefs 12 communityspotlight 14 NEAR DEATH 16 greenliving 17 healingways 18 healthykids

EXPERIENCES

Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

16 GREEN MERRY MAKING

20 consciouseating

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

22 wisewords

17 ‘TIS THE SEASON

23 fitbody

25 inspiration

26 naturalpet

28 calendar 30 resourceguide

advertising & submissions

TO BE WISE

A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

by Lane Vail

18 SWEET SLUMBER

Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

by Mark Sisson

20 PEACE ON OUR PLATES

Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

How to Advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 608-381-1223 or email Publisher@AwakeMadison.com. Medit kit with advertising prices can also be found on our website.

Deadline for ads: 15th of the month.

Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@AwakeMadison.com Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month. calendar submissions Deadline for calendar: the 15th of the month.

Email your formatted listing to Publisher@AwakeMadison.com

22 HUMANITY’S

ETERNAL QUEST

Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

23 TOO MUCH

TOGETHERNESS?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

25 BE HAPPY RIGHT NOW

The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

by Bronnie Ware

26 PET FIRST-AID KITS www.AwakeMadison.com

All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

newsbriefs Holiday Open House

Sunday December 29th from 1pm-3pm.

...is looking for distribution team members.

A

ll ages invited to share holiday cheer and enjoy delicious treats, specialty chocolates, organic lemonade, wine and cheese, and a special live encore performance by Darryl Armistead featuring a fun mix of instrumentals and vocals with a repertoire of over three hundred songs covering many genres, such as standards, oldies, jazz, pop, rock, rhythm and blues.

Build it and they will come” Discover what can happen when a local senior advocate and UW alumnus partners with family, friends and community to create the warmth, love, and personalized care seniors deserve. Emerson Assisted Living Boutique combines the comforts of home, the amenities of a country inn, and the extra attention to detail offered at a bed and breakfast, all while embracing a holistic approach to care and services. So whether you’re from the north, south, east, or west, when you’re looking for the very best in assisted living, look no further than Madison’s new hidden treasure, Emerson Assisted Living Boutique. Come and experience the difference and feel what true peace of mind can mean to families. All ages invited December 29th 1-3pm. Enjoy live music and delicious treats! Call (608) 669-5542 for more information or view website at www.emersonmadison.com, 402 Rustic Drive, Madison, WI 53718.

Have you been wanting to advertise your business in Natural Awakenings but maybe don’t have the budget? This opportunity is PERFECT for you! Receive a FREE ad in exchange for helping distribute the magazine (only 1 day a month).

Your Local Healthy Living Magazine!

Living Free of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

S

publisher@awakemadison.com

608-381-1223 6

South Central Wisconsin

o you’ve been told you have irritable bowel syndrome, or as you now know it as, IBS. You’ve been experiencing gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation all your life, and this is what you get. Perhaps you’ve even gone as far as having a colonoscopy, endoscopy, biopsies, and testing to rule out Celiac disease, and all of these have come back negative. So what are you to do?

Join Carrie Decker, naturopathic physician with Blessed Thistle, LLC, as she gives you some options that will help you move into a life living free of your IBS symptoms. Dr. Decker will also have testing kits available at this time to help you investigate the possible aspects of your lower or upper gastrointestinal system which might be contributing to your symptoms. Visit www.BlessedThistle.info to learn more about Dr. Decker and naturopathic medicine, or join her for this free talk on Monday, December 16th, from 6:30 – 7:30pm at 6117 Monona Dr., Monona, WI 53716. Call 608-620-5831 if you have any questions.

www.AwakeMadison.com

healthbrief

ecotip

Meditation Helps Heal Traumatized Veterans

Family Games Generate Goodwill All Year

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ranscendental Meditation (TM) has a dramatic healing effect on people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can also result in lower blood pressure, according to two new studies.

TM—a technique to avoid distracting thoughts, decrease stress and promote a state of relaxed awareness— reduced PTSD symptoms in combat veterans by as much as 50 percent in just eight weeks, according to a study from Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C., published in the journal Military Medicine. The veterans also reported decreased depression and improved quality of life, with a greater ability to come back to their civilian lives after returning from duty.

Vietnam War vets randomly assigned to TM sessions at a Denver Veterans Center also experienced greater reductions in alcohol usage, insomnia and depression than those in conventional counseling. At the conclusion of a landmark three-month study, 70 percent of the meditating veterans felt they no longer required the services of the center.

A separate American Heart Association report on the general U.S. population showed that the practice of TM generally reduced systolic blood pressure in subjects by five points and diastolic by three points, enough to put many of them into normal range. Previous clinical trials have shown that lower blood pressure through TM practice is associated with significantly lower rates of death, heart attack and stroke.

TM is usually practiced for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day by sitting comfortably and focusing on an individually selected word or series of words.

Fun family games based on cards, trivia and charades are quintessential holiday activities.

Now a new generation of games adds fresh dimensions of interest and goodwill. Online games—some are free—extend good tidings to people around the world, as well as our environment. Santa is thrilled.

Eco games galore: From determining our family’s carbon footprint to making ethical decisions as a business leader or learning how to help child populations vulnerable to pneumonia, EcoGamer. org is a gateway to enriching experiences. More than 20 entertaining websites employ informative, eco-related calculations, games and quizzes.

Assist African farmers: Heighten awareness and empathy by experiencing on a virtual basis the immense challenges of life on an African farm, including dealing with disease, drought, a lack of resources and war, at 3rdWorldFarmer.com/About. html. Free trials are available, plus links to international nonprofit organizations and relief groups.

Become a citizen scientist: At FilamentGames.com/projects/citizen-science, players travel back in time to investigate how a lake became polluted and what can be done today to protect our waterways. Developed by the National Science Foundation, in partnership with the University of Wisconsin, it illustrates business, lifestyle and social factors that can harm the environment.

Learn and feed: FreeRice.com allows players to automatically help feed hungry people with rice donations through the United Nations World Food Program. Players select from specific subjects: art, chemistry, geography, English, other languages and math. Each correct answer donates 10 grains of rice as participants watch the contents of a virtual bowl gradually fill.

Tabletop games: Bioviva (Bioviva.com), Destruct 3 (UncleSkunkleToys.com), ReThink: The Eco Design Game (PlayReThink.com), Xeko (Xeko.com) and Endango (search Amazon.com) are all new takes on the traditional pastime of board games.

Some are made of recycled materials, to boot.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

7

healthbriefs

Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’s

Get MORE for your $

C

innamon is known as an excellent antioxidant that improves fasting blood sugar levels and prevents heart disease. Now new research offers yet another benefit and reason to add this potent spice to our daily diet.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

They found that the cinnamon compounds cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memory-robbing neurodegenerative disease.

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cinnamon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the university’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap,” protecting against tau proteins.

The findings suggest that sufficient cinnamon consumption might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even prevent it.

Cocoa Calms Inflammation

F

ew can say no to a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night. “Enjoy!” say Penn State researchers. They have found that a little bit of cocoa may be a powerful diet aid in helping to control inflammation and ameliorate related diseases, including diabetes. Numerous current studies link obesity to inflammation in the body.

Cocoa, although a common ingredient of chocolate, by itself has low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber content. The researchers fed laboratory mice the human equivalent of 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder—about four or five cups of hot cocoa—along with a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. The control group ate the same diet without the cocoa.

Lead researcher Joshua Lambert, Penn State associate professor of food science, says the study results surprised the team, which did not expect the “dramatic reduction of inflammation and fatty liver disease” associated with obesity. Although the animals lost no weight, the cocoa powder supplement reduced liver triglycerides by 32 percent and plasma insulin levels by 27 percent, indicating it might be a powerful obesity-fighting tool.

But there is a catch: Adding sugar, an inflammatory substance in itself, to healthy cocoa will likely neutralize the benefits. Try stevia as a sweetener instead; it’s been used for decades to lower blood sugar.

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South Central Wisconsin

www.AwakeMadison.com

Empower Your Neti Pot

www.peacefulheart.net

U

sed for centuries in Asian cultures to support nasal health and eliminate toxins from the nasal mucosa, neti pots have recently become popular in the Western world and are recognized for their value in preventing and relieving sinus infections. Typically, a mild solution of unrefined sea salt and purified or distilled water is poured from one nostril through the other to flush out unwanted mucus, bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms. Herbalist Steven Frank, of Nature’s Rite, points to a powerful new paradigm that helps neti pot users deal even more effectively with infection: a regimen of aqueous, colloidal silver and soothing herbal and plant extracts.

Frank recommends using the neti pot with a colloidal silver wash that is retained in the nostrils for several minutes. “Bacteria and fungus stick rather well to the nasal mucosa and few are flushed out with simple saline flushes,” he explains.

“Most of these nasty pathogens adhere to the mucosa with what is called a biofilm.

Within this slime layer, they are well protected and thrive in the warm moist sinuses, so a small saline bath once a day doesn’t bother them much. However, colloidal silver disables certain enzymes needed by anaerobic bacteria, viruses, yeasts and fungus, resulting in their destruction. And, unlike antibiotics, silver does not allow resistant ‘super bugs’ to develop.”

He also suggests soothing the sinuses with restorative herbal decoctions.

Calendula, plantain and aloe contain vital nutrients that soothe and heal, while Echinacea root and grapefruit seed extract offer antimicrobial benefits.

Frank emphasizes the importance of using a neti pot safely and responsibly and warns against table salt, which can irritate nasal membranes, and tap water, which may contain contaminants.

Steven Frank is an innovative herbalist and owner of MyNaturesRite.com. For more information, call 888-465-4404. See ad, page 9.

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globalbriefs

Standard Returns New Sustainable Currency Geared to Stabilize World Economy

The Terra, an Internet-based trade reference currency (TRC), has been launched as a global complementary form of money to provide an inflation-resistant international value standard, stabilize the worldwide business cycle and realign stockholders’ interests with long-

term sustainability.

From a legal viewpoint, the Terra is standardized “countertrade” (international barter), which is routinely used for more than $1 trillion worth of transactions each year. Countertrade legislation already exists in about 200 countries, including all the major trading nations, so introducing the Terra does not require new intergovernmental agreements.

Financial and currency expert Bernard Lietaer, one of the key architects of the European Currency Unit, the convergence mechanism that led to the Euro, posits the Terra as the first time since gold standard days that such a robust, inflation-resistant international base value has been available. He says, “This supranational complementary currency is uniquely designed, unlike national currencies, to provide a stable international mechanism for contractual and payment purposes worldwide.

This mechanism would automatically work to reverse the boom and busts of the business cycle and stabilize the economy by providing more cash during downturns and cooling off inflationary pressures in the peak of an upturn.”

Perhaps most importantly, it is positioned to resolve the current conflict between short-term financial interest and long-term sustainability. The Terra works in parallel with national currencies.

Source: TerraTRC.org 10

South Central Wisconsin

News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

Genuinely Greenwashed Six Ploys to Avoid in Eco-Purchases

A report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping: 1. Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.

2. No Proof: Can a third party verify claims such as “organic” or “allnatural”?

3. Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemical-free” or “no hormones added”.

4. Irrelevance: Claims that have no relationship to the product or might be made with any other product in the same category, such as [chlorofluorocarbon] CFC-free shaving gel.

5. Fibbing: A falsehood that can’t be backed up, such as “certified organic” for products for which no such certification exists.

6. Lesser of Two Evils: An attempt to put a green twist on a product that’s inherently harmful to humans and the environment, such as organic cigarettes.

Escalating Thirst

Endangered Western Tree Habitats A team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree. They exposed the gel to an artificially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss.

Douglas firs and pine trees can repair this damage as frequently as every hour, says Katherine McCulloh, a plant ecophysiologist at Oregon State University. However, the bubbles are deadly for other species.

Today, the typical forest in the often thirsty American West contains an unnaturally high density of 112 to 172 trees per acre. Besides intercepting rain and snow that would otherwise enter the groundwater supply, such an overabundance threatens native species. “Deprived of [the effect of] low-intensity, naturally occurring fires, aspen, lupine, sequoia and fireweed can’t reproduce,” notes Jamie Workman, of the Environmental Defense Fund. “Deer lose edge habitat. Threatened owls and raptors can’t navigate through increasingly dense thickets.” Workman argues that thinning out small trees is the answer.

Contributing source: Utne.com

www.AwakeMadison.com

Intuitive Generosity Spontaneity Sparks Altruism

What makes people put “we” ahead of “me”? To find out, a group of Harvard University researchers enrolled thousands of people to play a “public good” game in which subjects were divided into small groups, given some money and the choice to keep it or contribute it to a common pool that would grow and benefit the entire group. Researchers discovered that those that made their decisions quickly were more likely to contribute to the common good.

Taking it a step further, the researchers applied time pressure to the decisionmaking process. They then found that those faced with making a quick decision most often chose the “we” option, while those that spent more time deliberating ended up giving less money to the group kitty.

The Massachusetts research team, which tested thousands of online worldwide participants, concluded that spontaneity and intuition guide people into rapid acts of kindness.

Arctic Rescue

Finland Calls for North Pole Sanctuary The Finnish government has adopted a new Arctic Strategy that calls for a global sanctuary around the North Pole as one of the key demands of the growing Save the Arctic movement, reversing its long-held position of backing corporate interests over the environment. The populace responded strongly to a series of actions taken by Greenpeace against government icebreaker ships aiding corporate oil exploration in order to heighten awareness of the issue. The new Finnish policy reflects a mounting world citizenry’s view that the Arctic deserves protection.

Greenpeace points out that companies can wreck the Arctic with little penalty and the current Arctic Council oil spill agreement does nothing to protect the Arctic or impose liability in this the most vulnerable place on Earth. The hope is that the other seven Arctic Council countries will see the light, as well.

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Tagging Toxins

Online Database Identifies Safe Products SafeMarkets.org offers a new clearinghouse of information gathered by advocates investigating toxic chemicals in food, baby products, toys, furniture, construction materials and other consumer goods.

Families, municipalities, builders and businesses can use it to identify potentially harmful products and find safer alternatives.

Hosted by the Workgroup for Safe Markets (WSM), it’s a one-stop shop to provide information for consumers, retailers and manufacturers that are demanding safer products, says Beverley Thorpe, a WSM co-leader and consulting co-director for Clean Production Action.

Mia Davis, vice president of health and safety at Beautycounter, who is expecting her first child, sees it as a resource for parents to find a full complement of safe products for their families. “More than ever,” she says, “people understand how important it is to shop with companies they trust and to support businesses working to create truly safe products.”

Shop online for this and other natural products at

NAWebstore.com or call: 888-822-0246

natural awakenings

December 2013

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communityspotlight

Embracing a Holistic Approach at Emerson Assisted Living Boutique

use pen Ho O y a d li Ho er 29th Decembfor more info e6

See pag

E

merson Assisted Living Boutique for senior adults counters smaller assisted and supportive living stereotypes by offering a beautiful holistic and nurturing home in an executive style residence nestled in a park like setting on the edge of Madison, yet only minutes to downtown and surrounding communities.

Emerson Assisted Living Boutique offers 8 private suites with full baths, a spacious living room boasting cathedral ceilings with floor to ceiling windows and a warm fireplace for cold winter days. There is also a library, sitting room, garden room, spa room with walk in whirlpool tub and hair salon sink, fully accessible porches and patios to relax on, and a basketball court and swing set for families to enjoy. Plus in keeping with their holistic and natural beliefs for the health and safety of their residents, visitors, and staff, they appreciate using natural non-toxic cleaning supplies with essential oils.

Sound like a Country Inn or Bed and Breakfast? That’s what they have in mind at Emerson Assisted Living Boutique. “There is no reason that just because a senior starts to need assistance with daily chores or personal cares that they can’t also live in a beautiful home, have their own private suite, remain independent, plus be pampered and encouraged to enjoy the simple pleasures in life while continuing to make their own choices and decisions”.

From the first moment you walk into Emerson Assisted Living Boutique you will discover why everyone that enters smiles and says “I want to live here too” and will appreciate the trend to offer a more home like setting for seniors to live in. You will catch wonderful scents wafting from the kitchen with treats baked daily such as fresh baked pie or perhaps dinner cooking with fresh garlic and olive oil. In the summer you will see fresh vegetables being picked for dinner from the organic garden or perhaps a few residents are playing cards and chatting over coffee or having fun watching their family play basketball or on the swing set.

You can imagine yourself relaxing or reading a book by the fireplace, sitting on the front porch in the morning with coffee or tea listening to the birds and en12

South Central Wisconsin

www.AwakeMadison.com

joying the beautifully landscaped yard and flower gardens, or perhaps enjoying a lunch with family or friends on the screened porch. The homelike feeling, beauty, and graciousness offers a sense of warmth and love that lets you know, it doesn’t just feel like home, it is home.

Plus families will have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a safe and loving home with a resident manager available 24/7 for advocacy or concerns.

How did a local senior advocate and UW Madison alumnus beat the odds during the recession to open a new assisted living residence for seniors? “With lots of help and support from family and friends, encouragement from the community, along with sage advice from a great group of retired professionals at SCORE, plus partnering with Summit Credit Union that has been very helpful and supportive each step of the way to acquire a SBA loan, and the talents and guidance of Denise Kirch Construction. And most important, an amazing team of professional and compassionate staff and consul-

tants dedicated to the well being and happiness of our residents.

Kate’s experience and advocacy in senior services also includes her role as former Executive Director of the West Madison Senior Coalition, Advanced Practice Social Worker with Agrace Hospice Care, volunteer with RSVP of Dane County, and serving with the Long Term Care Ombudsman program, Committee on Aging, and on the Dane County Task Force on Aging.

Emerson Assisted Living Boutique embraces a holistic approach to their resident’s well-being while honoring the mind, body, spirit connection and focusing on what residents can do, not on what they can’t do. “We offer a home where the joy of giving is understood, family and friends are always welcome, and the simple pleasures in life are never taken for granted,” states Kate. Emerson is proud to have a great team of caring and considerate staff and management available 24/7 to offer exceptional personalized care and the extra touches, like relaxing hand massages with aromatherapy. See Holiday Open House details on page 6.

.

Thank you for your business in 2013.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Gift certificates available by a phone or online

natural awakenings

December 2013

13

Near Death Experiences Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

Through his research, he has identified numerous common elements that occur in NDEs—an out-of-body experience, the sensation of traveling through a tunnel, encountering a bright light (usually interpreted as God, Jesus or an angel), communicating with deceased relatives, feeling emotions such as profound peace, well-being and love, plus a flood of knowledge about life and the nature of the universe. Perhaps the most significant element he reports is the supremely conscious and superbly blissful state that exists beyond both limitations of the senses and intellect and the confines of space and time— the pure conscious form of each one’s truly real Self.

Life as Love

T

he advice that the White Queen gave to young Alice in Lewis Carroll’s Through the LookingGlass might be some of the best to offer non-believers and skeptics that question the credibility of near-death experiences (NDE). When Alice protests, “One can’t believe impossible things,” the White Queen famously retorts, “I daresay you haven’t had much practice.

When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

Glimpses of Grace

I was overwhelmed by the realization that God isn’t a being, but a state of being… and I am that state of being… pure consciousness. ~ Anita Moorjani Cancer to Near Death, to True Healing, and Dr. Eben Alexander, author of Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, have sparked fresh public interest in NDEs, a word coined

by Raymond Moody, Ph.D., in his 1975 classic, Life After Life. Moody, a psychiatrist and professor of philosophy who has spent nearly 50 years investigating what happens when people die, has interviewed thousands of individuals that have personally experienced an NDE.

“Over the past 20 years there have been enormous strides in resuscitation technology. Defibrillators and public access defibrillation programs, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are major factors that allow modern medicine to bring people back from a state that 100 years ago would have been labeled death,” observes Moody.

The majority of physicians and clinical researchers in the medical community continue to consider NDEs as impossible and merely pure fantasies generated by a surge of electrical activity as a dying brain runs out of oxygen.

However, according to a Gallup poll, the 8 million Americans whose transcendental NDEs freed their consciousness to leave the body and enter into a wondrous reality that exists completely free of physicality, believe them to be real, meaningful and lifechanging experiences.

Recently, the renowned NDE narratives of Anita Moorjani, author of Dying to Be Me: My Journey from South Central Wisconsin www.AwakeMadison.com 14

Rushed to the hospital in a coma, Moorjani, whose body had been devoured for four years by cancer of the lymphatic system, describes the real self that she discovered during her NDE. “There I was, without my body or any physical traits, yet my pure essence continued to exist. It was not a reduced element of my whole self; in fact, it felt far greater and more intense and expansive than my physical being.

“I felt eternal, as if I’d always existed and always would, without a beginning or end. I was filled with the knowledge that I was simply magnificent,” explains Moorjani, whose cancer completely disappeared within five weeks after her release from the hospital.

“Not only did I come back with a clean slate, I brought back one of my biggest lessons—to love myself and be an instrument of love. I also returned to life here with a sense of purpose—to fearlessly be as authentically me as I can be. This means,” she clarifies, “that in whatever I do, I am acting from my sense of passion and the sheer joy of doing it.”

During Alexander’s seven-day coma in a hospital, brought about by antibiotic-resistant E. coli meningitis that attacked his brain, he left his mortal identity behind. “My brain wasn’t working at all,” he relates. “My entire neo-cortex, the part that makes us human, was entirely shut down. I had no language, emotions, logic or memories of who I was. Such an empty slate granted me full access to the true cosmic being that I am, that we all are,”

says Alexander. He further recalls that as his NDE unfolded, it occurred to him that he was being granted a grand overview of the invisible side of existence.

He also had a lovely ethereal companion that floated along on a butterfly wing, telepathically teaching him to accept the universal truth that, “You are eternally loved and cherished, you have nothing to fear, and there is nothing you can do wrong.”

“If I had to boil the whole message down to just one word, it would be Love—the incomprehensibly glorious truth of truths that lives and breathes at the core of everything that exists or will ever exist. No remotely accurate understanding of who we are and what we are can be achieved by anyone who does not know it and embody it in all their actions,” Alexander now understands.

Prior to his life-threatening illness, this neurosurgeon’s sophisticated medical training had led him to dismiss the possibility of NDEs. Today, he works at returning to his NDE state of oneness and unconditional love by using meditation and sacred acoustics, as well as quantum mechanics, to explore the nature of consciousness and higher brain function.

Like Moody, Alexander studies the ancient Greek philosophers Parmenides, Pythagoras and Plato, who took the notion of an afterlife seriously and questioned “what” survives bodily death. Alexander’s consequent nonprofit organization, Eternea, fosters cooperation between science and spirituality by sponsoring research and education about spiritually transformative experiences and holistic consciousness beyond conventional definitions.

“I had to learn a whole lot more about consciousness than I had to know about neuroscience,” quips Alexander, who now believes that the brain blocks access to knowledge of higher worlds.

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness. That it is, instead, a kind of reducing valve or filter that dumbs down consciousness for the duration of our human experience.

“Neuroscience can’t give you the first sentence about how the physical brain creates consciousness,” he states,

while many are finding how science and spirituality strengthen each other.

At age 37, a blood vessel exploded in the left hemisphere of Jill Bolte Taylor’s brain. A Ph.D. Harvard-trained scientist specializing in anatomy of the brain, she was fascinated to observe the breakdown of her brain-related functions.

As described in her book, My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey, she became the witness to her stroke, which initially left her unable to talk, walk, read, write or remember anything prior to that occurrence.

As her left brain shut down, Taylor lost her ability to process all language; with her mind suspended in newfound silence, she experienced an unprecedented sense of deep peace. She also experienced an inability to visually distinguish edges and boundaries between herself and the outer world.

Absent conventional orientation, “I could actually see that my skin was not my physical boundary.

“As a result of such a glorious state of blissful realization that I am—as we all are—connected to everything and everyone around us, I no longer see myself as a single, solid entity, separate from other human beings,” advises Taylor. “Although my left mind still thinks of me as a fragile individual, capable of losing my life, my right mind realizes the essence of my being as eternal life.” She now understands that she is part of the cosmic flow of energy, which she characterizes as a tranquil sea of euphoria.

Present Possibility

In The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth, author Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., suggests that each of us is a part of the universe seeking and finding itself. Could it be that without the mental filter and self-limiting beliefs, we are free to consciously know our higher state of wholeness and the truth of our magnificence?

Upwards of 8 million people that have experienced their own NDE are trending the world toward a tipping point into the comforting awareness that anything is possible.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe. com for the recorded interviews.

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December 2013

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greenliving

GREEN Merry Making Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

Gift Giving

by Claire O’Neil

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hroughout the year, Santa’s good girls and boys of all ages make every effort to buy only what’s needed, plus recycle, reuse and repurpose. Then the holidays hit and discipline often gives way to indulgences.

The season seems consumed by uptempo decorating, feasting, shopping, gift-giving and merrymaking at any cost. Yet, creative green living experts show us how easy it is to tweak timehonored family traditions to align with the green way we wish to live and feel even more satisfied with festivities.

Decking the Halls

For the holiday table, mix and match settings of plates, glasses, linens and cutlery. “Use the real thing,” Eisenberg recommends, “and recruit guests to help wash up afterwards.” She recalls that while growing up, her mother supplemented her silverware with grandmother’s for large holiday dinners.

Save your own energy (and sanity) by asking family and friends to bring an appetizer, side dish or dessert. The hostess can assign a dish and corresponding recipe or use a potluck approach, says Eisenberg. Leftovers go home in non-plastic, reusable containers.

accented with boughs of holly. “Local nurseries are good sources for holiday décor that you can later mulch or put in yard waste bins,” she says. “The smells are much more authentic and festive.”

Save energy by using LED lights whenever possible, suggests Sheryl Eisenberg, a writer for the National Resources Defense Council. Plug lights and electronics into a power strip, and then unplug it when not in use to save “ghost” energy pulled by electronics that are plugged in, but not activated.

Buy a live tree to later plant or recycle, Seo suggests. This supports regional Christmas tree farmers while retaining the integrity of local forests.

Many communities offer recycling of holiday trees to provide mulch or habitat for aquatic life in local lakes.

For Danny Seo, author of Upcycling Celebrations: A Use-What-You-Have Guide to Decorating, Gift-Giving & Entertaining, “Upcycling is basically a form of recycling that elevates something to a better level than beKeeping the Feast fore.” Based in New York City and Organize a cookie exchange to get Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Seo together and save time and energy on always has an eye out for green posholiday baking, suggests Sara Novak, sibilities. “Opt for vintage pieces and a food policy and health writer at re-imagine them in new and interesting SereneKitchen.com, from Sullivan’s ways,” he advises. For example, he likes Island, South Carolina. Generally, a to upcycle a vintage glass cake stand hostess asks guests to bring several with a collection of bright ornaments dozen of their favorite cookies. Once for a unique holiday focal point. gathered, attendees share the treats

Michele Johansen, a lifestyle and recipes, taking home several of writer in Bellevue, Washington, sugeach variety. To “green it up”, Novak gests bringing in the outdoors. Instead recommends emailing the recipes of decorating the tree with tinsel and rather than printing them, encouragthe home with plastic faux greenery, ing invitees to use fresh and local she suggests stringing popcorn and ingredients and bring favorite reusable cranberries on the tree and decking the containers from home, like a colorful, halls with fresh wreaths and garlands time-honored cookie tin.

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Many families enjoy giving traditional gifts to children at certain ages, like dollhouses or train sets. Re-imagine these and, when possible, buy local to save energy and support area businesses, suggests Eisenberg.

Cintia Gonzalez, an Australian mom, crafted a dollhouse from an old suitcase, inventively using black chalkboard paint for the exterior, wooden shelves as floors and fast food ketchup cups as lampshades (Tinyurl.com/ UpcycleDollhouse). Another mom transformed a discarded coffee table into a painted train table for her boys.

Upcycle paint chip cards into colorful gift tags, suggests Seo. Plus, use gift wraps that become part of the gift itself, such as placemats swaddling a bottle of wine, fabric to encase quilting supplies or sheet music enveloping concert tickets.

As a general rule, “Give experiences, not gifts,” counsels Eisenberg.

“Giving loved ones experiences reduces wrapping paper, ribbon and packaging and is an easy way to be a bit more personal over the holidays.

Your teenage niece may love a spa day, complete with hair styling, while your favorite aunt and uncle may be thrilled to attend a local wine tasting. If you think a young child can tolerate a few less presents in exchange for a pass to an ice show or dance class, go for it.”

“It’s the holiday experience that counts,” counsels Seo. “It’s what makes memories.”

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer from Kansas City, MO.

healingways

Reflect on Water

‘Tis the Season to Be Wise A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

by Lane Vail

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or California acupuncturist Daniela Freda, counseling patients that grapple with low energy during winter is routine. “They’re often concerned something is wrong, since our society expects us to feel the same way year-round,” says Freda, who maintains a private practice in San Francisco. “But in fact,” she adds, “everything is right.”

According to a study published in Psychiatry Research, only 4 to 6 percent of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by a predictable seasonal pattern of major depressive or bipolar disorder. For the vast majority of the population, a slight seasonal variance in mood and behavior is normal, confirms Kathryn Roecklein, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and prominent SAD researcher at Pennsylvania’s University of Pittsburg.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), like Freda, view decreased energy in nature’s wintertime as a reflection of the season’s energy. In this philosophy, rising (yang) and falling (yin) energies cycle as the seasons turn. Winter is governed by quiet, slow, introspective and creative yin energy. As winter yields to spring, the bright, fast, expansive and extroverted yang energy gains momentum to peak in summer.

“Nature expresses universal energies in a big way,” says research psychologist and mind-body medicine expert Joseph Cardillo, Ph.D., author of The Five Seasons. Who can ignore a blossoming spring or an abundant autumn? “Those

same energetic cycles,” says Cardillo, “are mirrored in the microcosmic human body and human experience.”

Chill Out

Although the December 21 winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, temperatures in most of the U.S. continue to fall through February. Cardillo advises embracing winter’s chill because it diverts our attention from daily activities so that we pause to consider what’s important.

“The effect is similar to splashing cold water on our face,” he remarks.

As the cold draws animals into hibernation and plants into dormancy, it also beckons us to enjoy extra sleep, notes Freda, as we follow the sun’s path: Earlier to bed; later to rise. She encourages her clients to incorporate restorative activities into daily routines. “Intentionally set aside time to connect with the breath and quiet the mind,” she counsels. Try gentle yoga or t’ai chi, listen to relaxing music, curl up with a cozy book or take nature walks, flush with fresh sensory experiences.

Cardillo explains that slowing down naturally creates space for the contemplative and creative qualities of yin energy to rise. Meditating, visualizing and journaling promote access to one’s inner wisdom. “Winter is a perfect time to examine the myriad ideas you’ve dreamt up and assemble them into a new you,” says Cardillo. “Now you are prepared to use the robust energy of spring to scatter those ideas abroad.”

In TCM, the element of water, symbolizing focus and purity, is closely associated with winter. Highly adaptable, water can be solid, liquid or formless vapor; it can flow over, under, around or through obstacles with ease; and it can be still and contained. Contemplating the power of water in any of its forms can help synchronize one’s consciousness with the season’s gifts.

“When your mind is unstuck and flowing like water, your dreams start becoming real to you, simply because you’re in the flow, the present moment,” observes Cardillo, who also authored Be Like Water. He suggests looking to water for guidance in creating solutions, sharpening focus or moving effortlessly on to the next step.

Find Balance

Freda points out that within the strong yin energy of winter, “There are yang moments, celebratory moments, to keep us going.” An imbalance can occur when the slowness of winter is completely counteracted by too much high-energy socializing, working or rushing through the day. “An excess of yang during the winter,” counsels Freda, “rather than a glimpse of it, can deplete us,” contributing to stress, fatigue and depression.

Conversely, for those with an already predominantly yin personality (quiet, introverted, low energy) that overindulge in the yin energy of winter, an attempt at restoration and quietude can lead to lethargy and isolation. “I see this clinically,” says Freda. “Instead of embracing a little extra rest and relaxation, some people become exhausted and lose their motivation altogether. They become stuck in the yin.”

Cardillo recommends that such individuals engage in mood-brightening outdoor activities to help restore balance. Roecklein agrees, noting that SAD sufferers undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (which emphasizes positive thinking and beneficial behaviors) likewise are encouraged to participate in physical and social activities that bring joy and meaning.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.

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healthykids

a lower incidence of sudden infant death syndrome when breastfeeding is practiced.

In the clinical experience of James McKenna, Ph.D., a University of Notre Dame professor and leading anthropologist in the field, “Breastfeeding mothers typically keep their babies away from pillows, positioning their infants on their backs, while placing them below the parents’ shoulders and raising their arms above them.” Plus, the adults “lay on their sides in ways that can prevent accidental overlays.”

Co-sleeping builds parent-child bonds. Research published by the Sleep Research Society shows that mothers that co-sleep with their babies are more attuned to their sleep/ wake habits and can respond quicker to their needs. According to the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, skin-to-skin touch increases the secretion of oxytocin, a bond-building hormone.

Sweet Slumber Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

E

by Mark Sisson

very young mammal on Earth sleeps in close contact with its mother and other family members. They’ve been cosleeping for security, warmth, comfort and protection for millions of years of evolution.

Although it is generally frowned upon in the United States, many human cultures, including most in East Asia, the Pacific islands, South America, Africa and much of southern Europe, have a rich tradition of co-sleeping. In At Home: A Short History of Private Life, Bill Bryson relates that until very recently, most domiciles centered around a central room, or hall, where everyone slept together. Even today, adults and children almost always sleep together in the same beds in nonindustrialized, traditional societies worldwide.

The modern practice of placing babies in separate rooms at night, often to cry themselves to sleep, appears to be a historical aberration. Co-sleeping, conversely, is the age-old norm because it offers so many benefits to both parents and children.

Co-sleeping makes breastfeeding easier. Studies pub-

lished by the Acta Paediatrica, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics confirm a consistent link between co-sleeping and breastfeeding in countries as disparate as Brazil, Britain, Malaysia and Sweden. Breast milk provides immunological benefits, transfers symbiotic gut bacteria and promotes bonding between mother and child. It’s especially nutritious if the mother’s diet is healthy, and breast milk is the only food experts agree the human body is unquestionably designed to consume.

Co-sleeping improves sleep. A mother that can breast-

feed without leaving the bed will get more sleep. Also, more research from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows 18

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Co-sleeping fosters maturation. Studies in the Infant and Child Development journal show that kids that share a bed or sleep in the same room with their parents grow up to be more self-reliant and socially independent, better behaved, less anxious about intimacy as adults and more likely to be happy.

Parents that are nervous about sharing beds can try room sharing, where the baby sleeps in an adjoining crib or cot; family members will experience many of the same benefits.

Mark Sisson is a former marathon runner and triathlete.

He is the author of the bestselling health and fitness book, The Primal Blueprint, and publisher of the health blog, MarksDailyApple.com.

Safe Co-Sleeping Habits DON’T:

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4

4

4 4

4

4

4

by Mark Sisson

Don’t drink alcohol or take drugs that affect awareness and judgment, especially before bed.

Don’t smoke tobacco. The tars and toxins cling to an adult’s body, hair and clothes, exposing the baby to dangerous chemicals that increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Don’t co-sleep if the parent is sleep-deprived, a heavy sleeper, has sleep apnea or is obese.

Don’t allow pets or other children to sleep next to babies.

Don’t co-sleep on a sofa, loveseat or reclining chair. The cushions create crevices for infant heads to slip into and the elevation creates a fall risk.

Don’t use overly soft mattresses that babies can sink into.

Think firm.

Don’t use thick bedding, which can cause rapid overheating or lead to smothering.

Don’t co-sleep unless everyone is on board. If a spouse isn’t agreeable, try a room share instead.

DO: 4 Provide a big enough bed to afford ample space for all co-sleepers.

4 Keep the mattress low or place it on the floor.

4 Eliminate all crevices that a baby might be able to fall into; push the mattress snug against one or more walls.

4 Use a firm mattress, a tight-fitting sheet and light bedding.

4 Place the baby on its back to sleep.

The Bruno Groening Circle of Friends

“Help and healing on the spiritual path – medically verifiable”

Bruno Groening (1906-1959) became well-known all over the world because of the extraordinary healing successes in the 1950s. Again and again he spoke about the existence of a healing power or life force, which is available for everyone free of charge. Even today, medically inexplicable improvements and healings occur, including of long standing chronic illness, when human beings open themselves up to the healing power in accordance with the teaching of Bruno Gröning.

The Bruno Groening Circle of Friends is one of the biggest associations for healing on the spiritual path worldwide.

Here anyone can learn to absorb the healing power. Thereby, often amazing healings happen, from severe organic disorders as well as from depression, allergies, and severe drug addictions.

These healings are recorded and verified worldwide in collaboration with physicians and psychologists of all important disciplines of medicine and psychology.

In the year 1992, the Medical Scientific Group (MWF) was founded in the Bruno Groening Circle of Friends. Today the MWF is an international association of several thousand doctors and other healthcare professionals from more than 90 countries. Since 1992, the group has been examining the help and healings which have taken place on the spiritual path through the teaching of Bruno Groening. The healings are recorded, medically verified and, if possible, documented and attested to on the basis of medical findings of independent physicians. Meanwhile, an extensive archive has been set up. You can get a summary of more than 200 healing reports, sorted by diagnoses, in about 20 languages at http://www.bruno-Groening.org/english/heilungen/defaultheilungen.htm

In order to help sick and distressed people worldwide with that knowledge, doctors, psychologists and other health care practitioners of the MWF share their experiences with colleagues and interested parties. Some of these lectures have also taken place at universities, e.g. in Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Seattle, Houston, St. Petersburg, Helsinki, and Johannesburg.

In the last few years more than 100,000 people have attended these lectures where they learn about a simple, natural path about help and healing. All of this work is based on donations. Everything is done on an honorary basis. The lectures are free of charge, donations are appreciated.

Nowadays there are not only people from all continents and all societies, but also from all religions in the Bruno Groening Circle of Friends. The teaching of Bruno Groening stands above the tight categories of medicine and religion.

It neither wants to remove the one nor to replace the other, but it completes and finally unites both.

In May 2013, the Bruno Groening Circle of Friends was awarded the Peace Pole by the World Peace Prayer Society for its contribution to world peace at the United Nations Tilman Chapel.For more information: http://www.bruno-groening.org/english and http://www.bruno-groening.org/english/ film natural awakenings

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consciouseating

by Judith Fertig

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s Earth’s population grows to a projected 9 billion people by 2050, can our global community keep eating flesh like we’ve been doing for centuries? No, according to a 2010 report by the United Nations Environment Programme, an international panel of sustainable resource management experts. Examining the food demands of a growing population and associated environmental and sustainability issues, Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Consumption and Production recommends “substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products.”

Making the case for a holistic view, Will Tuttle, Ph.D., suggests in World Peace Diet: Eating for Spiritual Health and Social Harmony that we start to see the connections between our food choices and the health and well-being of ourselves, our families, communities and the world.

Web of Understanding

At the center of the web of life is the food we all share to sustain our bodies. Tuttle insists that we celebrate this and regard each meal as a feast. “Food preparation is the only art that allows us to literally incorporate what we create.

It is also the only art that fully involves all five senses,” he says. We honor this wonderful activity most by sharing our 20

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cooking efforts with others, blessing the food and eating mindfully.

The problem at the center of life, maintains Tuttle, is that we involve animals in our food chain, an act that “introduces suffering, whether physical, mental or emotional.” This is a truth we try to hide from, what he calls the ”cultural shadow”. “The worst examples include factory farming, but even the best methods ultimately involve killing other animals for food,” he says.

One of Tuttle’s more controversial claims is that the herding culture—raising, dominating, selling, killing and owning animals—sets up a harmful physical, emotional and cultural dynamic, extolling domineering and aggressive behavior. “The herding culture requires male dominance and a mentality that might makes right,” observes Tuttle. “It also sees females as primarily breeders, not beings.” Based on contemporary research in anthropology, sociology and psychopathology, he maintains that the actions required to both dominate animals and eat their meat can lead to more aggressive and violent behavior.

One recent study seems to support his claim. Dr. Neil Barnard, in his book, Foods That Fight Pain, remarks that, “Plant-based diets also help tame testosterone’s activity.” Barnard cites a Massachusetts male aging study

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photo by Stephen Blancett

Peace on Our Plates Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

of 1,552 men ages 40 to 70, which indicated that men eating more fruits and vegetables than meat were less domineering and aggressive, because the increased sex hormone-binding globulin produced by plants helps keep testosterone in check.

“If we continue the meat-centric way of eating, we’re going to continue to have the problems that come with it,” says Tuttle. “The way forward is plant-based agriculture.”

Practicing a World Peace Diet The Tuttles shop for fresh, organic and non-GMO (genetically modified organism) foods and favor what they call “blueprint recipes”, that vary from day to day. Each outlines the makings of a dish and encourages cooks to be intuitive in how they fill in the details.

For a typical breakfast, for example, Tuttle and his wife, Madeleine, will make a green smoothie that includes kale, banana, apple, grapes, ground flax, chia seeds, cinnamon and fresh ginger. “It’s a flexible drink,” says Tuttle.

“We will swap out whatever organic fruits and vegetables we have so that we vary the flavor from time to time.”

For example, they might use parsley, spinach, or chard leaves in place of kale, or citrus in place of grapes.

Lunch is usually a wrap-type sandwich, sometimes using fresh leaf lettuce or a whole-wheat tortilla. One recent example of such a wrap combined tomatoes, peppers, sprouts, walnuts, tempeh and avocado. A dinnertime blueprint recipe involves a base of cooked rice, quinoa, pasta, mashed potatoes or polenta, topped with a vegetable ragout, cooked or raw.

“You could live the rest of your life mixing and matching these ingredients and never have the same meal twice,” notes Tuttle. “We have been doing it for 30 years. If we all choose to eat like this, the world could feed everybody on a fraction of the land now consumed by agriculture.”

Learn more at WorldPeaceDiet.org/articles.htm.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Peace Blueprint Recipes When sitting down to eat, look at what’s been created to nourish all those gathered. Enjoy the colors, smells, tastes and love that blesses the food. May the principle of Oneness govern all beings.

Green Smoothie

To start the day, use a high-powered Vitamix-type blender to reduce whole fruits and vegetables to a smooth juice.

If using a regular blender, cut the fruits and vegetables into small pieces and strain the purée after blending.

Yields two servings 1 banana, sliced 1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped ½ cup seedless green grapes 1 cup chopped kale leaves 1 cup baby spinach leaves 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds ¼ cup ground chia seeds ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 1 cup purified water

Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Strain, if necessary, to remove larger pieces; pour into two glasses and serve.

Whole Wheat and Vegetable Wrap

For lunch, a simple wrap can provide a daily change-up mixing in different fresh ingredients plus a plant-based flavoring like dried herbs, spices or garlic stirred into the Vegenaise or homemade eggless mayonnaise.

Yields two servings 2 10-inch whole-wheat tortillas 2 Tbsp Vegenaise 1 tsp prepared horseradish, or to taste 1 cup fresh lettuce, torn into pieces ½ cup sprouts ½ cup chopped fresh tomatoes ½ cup shredded fresh carrots ½ cup diced fresh cucumber 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced ¼ cup toasted walnuts

Toast walnuts by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Cool, and then chop.

Place the tortillas on a flat surface.

In a small bowl, mix the Vegenaise and horseradish together. Spread the mixture on the tortillas. Top each tortilla with half the lettuce, sprouts, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, avocado and walnuts. Roll each tortilla into a wrap and serve.

Raw Vegetable Ragout with Brown Rice

Healthy World Shopping List

by Madeleine W. Tuttle Allow an hour to explore and buy the following basics to stock the pantry, always choosing organic and foods that have no genetically modified (GM or GMO) ingredients. In certain Asian traditions, only the most enlightened members of a monks’ community are allowed to cook food for their fellows, with good reason. The more love that goes into meal preparation, the better the outcome will be.

Start dinner with a base of cooked rice, potatoes, quinoa or polenta and top it with a vegetable medley.

Staples

Yields two servings

Veggies: (in season) pumpkin/squash, leek, onions, garlic, kale, cabbage, ginger, horseradish, broccoli, peppers, mushrooms, carrots, lettuce/greens, sprouts, edamame, spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, avocado, cilantro, peas (fresh or frozen), yams, potatoes

Rice: 1 cup brown rice 2¼ cups water Raw Vegetable Ragout: 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips ½ cup finely chopped celery ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped ¼ cup finely chopped Italian parsley ¼ cup toasted, chopped walnuts 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp coarse kosher or sea salt

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat and simmer covered until tender, about 40 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, combine the red bell pepper, celery, Kalamata olives, Italian parsley and walnuts in a medium-sized bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, stir until well blended, and then let rest until the rice is done.

To serve, spoon the cooked rice onto each plate and top with the raw vegetable ragout.

Source: Adapted from Intuitive Cooking, by Madeleine Tuttle (WorldPeaceDiet.org).

Grains: rice, millet, whole-grain spaghetti or angel hair noodles, couscous, quinoa, buckwheat, wild rice, cornmeal

Proteins: tofu, tempeh, seitan; lentils, split peas, beans and other legumes Dried herbs: peppermint, Italian seasoning mix, basil, dill, cilantro, paprika, cayenne, curry, turmeric, pepper, nutmeg powder, cumin seeds, rosemary, nutritional yeast Fruits: citrus, apples, bananas, grapes, berries, avocado and others

Additions Meat analogs: Gardein, Tofurkey, Field Roast, Beyond Meat, Sun Burger, Fakin’ Bacon Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts; raisins; flax, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds Oils and sauces: tahini (sesame butter), Vegenaise dressing, tomato sauce, olive oil, coconut oil, tamari or shoyu Sweeteners: Sucanat, stevia, coconut sugar, rice syrup, date syrup/sugar, agave nectar Dairy: plant-based milks (e.g., soy, rice, hemp, coconut, almond, oat, tapioca), cheeses, yogurts, and creams; and nut butters such as almond, cashew, and peanut butters and sesame tahini Others: spelt flour, Celtic salt, vanilla, cacao powder, shredded coconut

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wisewords

Humanity’s Eternal Quest Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

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photo by David Ellingsen

there is only the o listen to Eckpresent moment, hart Tolle is to be with no more future reminded that to escape into menanything is possible— tally. The result is a for anyone. lot less suffering.

We’re not talk“That is the real ing about living a life spiritual awakenof leisure, filled with ing, when someexpensive cars, beach thing emerges from homes and extravawithin you that is gant vacations, but an deeper than who experience brimming you thought you with the kind of spiriwere,” says Tolle. tual insights that make “So, the person is this life not only worth still there, but one living, but decidedly could almost say more fulfilling. that something

The problem more powerful shines through the is that when people hear the words person.” “spiritual insight”, there’s often an asThe good news, according to Tolle, sumption that it’s about something too ethereal to be practical or too elusive to is that in order to experience this awakening, “You don’t have to wait for the be achieved in this lifetime. diagnosis by the doctor or to be put in

This is exactly the point that Tolle, prison… nor do you have to do 30,000 one of the world’s most well-known hours of meditation or live in an ashram spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed for 20 years. Once you get a glimpse of during a talk earlier this year at Califorit, you can invite it into your daily life.” nia’s Stanford University.

For a growing number of people,

“Some people awaken spirituit’s this understanding of the always ally without ever coming into contact present “spiritual you” shining through with any meditation technique or any that has led to significant improvements spiritual teaching,” he said. “They may awaken simply because they can’t stand in their lives, not the least of which is better health. This would seem to indithe suffering anymore.” cate that these kinds of spiritual insights

He went on to cite examples of aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, those that have either been told they but decidedly practical. have a short time to live or have been

“Spirituality and religion belong given an exceptionally long prison in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre sentence. In both cases, any thought of Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern a future has been effectively dashed, forcing these individuals into what Tolle Cross University, in a study published in the Journal of the Australian Traditionaldescribes as an intense awareness that South Central Wisconsin www.AwakeMadison.com 22

Medicine Society. “They are determinants of health and they are factors in recovery, well-being and longevity.”

So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable, more effective than that?

“Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimension’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we retranslate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’”

“And then Jesus said—when they asked him, ‘Where is the kingdom of heaven and when is it going to come?’— he said, ‘The kingdom of heaven does not come with signs to be perceived. You cannot say, ah, it’s over there or look, it’s over there, for I tell you the kingdom of heaven is within you.’”

Spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but

decidedly practical.

How comforting it is to be reminded that the proverbial “kingdom of heaven” we’ve been hearing about for at least two millennia—this “dimension of spaciousness”, or what might be characterized as the understanding of our true spiritual identity—is “within you.”

It’s within us all, here and now. All that remains is the willingness— and the humility—to put this insight into practice.

Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Los Altos, CA, whose articles on the link between spiritual consciousness and health appear regularly in national online publications. Connect at norcalcs.org.

fitbody

Too Much Togetherness?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

G

iven family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly, holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University. Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern modality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter.

To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga workout. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treating family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness.

Yogic breathing patterns also are shown to low- er resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intra-family disagreements or other

stressors.

For a quick, relaxing yoga routine, begin with a few breathing exercises before moving into a sun salutation—a sequence of full-body poses, or asanas, performed in a smooth, continuous flow. Begin standing, palms pressed together in the tadasana, or mountain, pose. Then move through a series of motions that sweep the arms over the head, expanding the chest, before dipping into downward dog and plank poses, which help increase flexibility and strength. End lying down in the shavasana, or resting, pose with eyes closed and let the quiet settle in.

Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up tension by pushing against a wall. Stand about three feet away, lean in and push. Position feet at an angle so that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor. This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us to walk away feeling light and limber.

While some

people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit anxious.

For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try a cardiovascular workout like running, which German researchers published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue. A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthening the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay.

Before heading for the door, those stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sedentary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor cardiovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pumping. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack during holiday loafing a chance to flex.

Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.

After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness.

For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hiking, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee.

Participating in friendly family competition is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brooklyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

23

A DV E RTO R I A L

Natural Iodine Supplementation A Must for Most Americans

W

e all need iodine, yet most of us don’t get enough of it through our diet. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that iodine deficiency in the developed world has increased fourfold in the past 40 years and now affects nearly three-quarters of all adults.

Numerous U.S. practicing physicians quoted widely in the media estimate that the incidence of hypothyroidism in our adult population may be between 30 and 70 percent.

Thus, we can’t efficiently produce the thyroid hormones that serve as chemical messengers triggering nearly every bodily function. The presence or absence of iodine affects our every cell.

Natural Awakenings Detoxifed Iodine is 100 percent natural, raw iodine in an ethyl alcohol solution. We thank all those that are benefiting from this product and enthusiastically telling us their great results.  Available only at NAWebstore.com 

deafness, attention deficient and hyperactivity disorder and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University, China’s Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and France’s National Academy of Medicine.

The answer is simple: Taking the right kind of iodine in the right dosage can rebalance thyroid function and restore health to the thyroid and the whole body.

Reasons Behind Iodine Deficiency Radiation: Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation emitted by cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwave ovens and other electronic devices.

Iodized table salt: The human body cannot utilize the iodide added to this product.

Low-sodium diets: Failure to use healthy salts to fulfill sodium requirements, plus over-

A Few Drops Can Change Your Life!

My wife, who suffered from extreme fatigue and other symptoms, saw a dramatic increase in energy after just a few days of taking the natural iodine drops. Now if she misses a day, she’ll end up falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon, like she used to do before taking the iodine. It works! ~ Aaron

You could feel better, lose weight or increase energy and mental clarity with a few drops of Natural Awakenings’ DetoxifieD ioDine daily in water or on your skin when used as directed.

An essential component of the thyroid, iodine replacement has been reported to give relief from:

My doctor told me that I had a hypothyroid condition, prescribed medication and was happy with the follow-up test results, yet I noticed no positive effects on my overall wellbeing. Within two weeks of using the Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine, I had more energy, felt more awake and enjoyed clearer thinking and greater peace of mind. People even comment that I look younger. I am a fan! ~ Larry

• Depression • Fibromyalgia • Hypothyroidism • Radiation

24

South Central Wisconsin

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Be Aware of Hypothyroidism Symptoms Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, is the most recognized and obvious indicator of low iodine intake because the thyroid gland contains more concentrated iodine than other organs.

Symptoms can range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and a variety of skin and hair problems.

Hypothyroidism can further cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers. In children, insufficient iodine has been strongly linked with mental retardation,

use of zero-nutrient table salt in foods, leads to iodine depletion.

Bromine: This toxic chemical overrides iodine’s abilities to nourish the thyroid, adrenal and other hormone-producing glands.

A known carcinogen, it is used as an anticaking ingredient found in almost all baked goods, unless the ingredients specifically cite unbromated flour.

Iodine-depleted soils: Due to poor farming techniques, iodine and other minerals in soil have declined, so most foods today are devoid of naturally occurring iodine.

Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and other endocrine glands and restoring proper hormone production.

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inspiration

Coming Next Month

SPECIAL EDITION

Health & Wellness Be Happy Right Now The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

by Bronnie Ware

P

eople grow a lot when faced with their own mortality. As a palliative caregiver for many years, I learned never to underestimate someone’s capacity for personal growth. After wrestling with a variety of intense emotions, every patient I saw found their peace before they departed.

When questioned about regrets or what they would have done differently, five themes emerged.

I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled.

Most people had not honored even half of their dreams and died knowing that it was due to choices they had made or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize until they no longer have it.

I wish I hadn’t worked so hard. Every male patient that I nursed felt they had missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. They deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

Women also spoke of this regret, but because most were from an older generation, many had not been breadwinners.

I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace

with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. As a result, many developed illnesses apparently related to the bitterness and resentment they carried.

Rev Up Healthy Choices in the New Year Local & National Experts Show You How

I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. Many were disappointed they had not truly realized the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks, and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip away.

Many deeply regretted not giving important friendships the time and effort that they deserved.

I wish that I had let myself be happier.

Many did not understand until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits.

The so-called comfort of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others and to themselves that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh with gusto and cultivate some silliness in their life.

Bronnie Ware is the author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing, a memoir of how people she cared for changed the way she lives. She blogs at InspirationAndChai.com.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

25

naturalpet

Pet First-Aid Kits All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

F

“

irst-aid is the first thing you can services at Petplan Pet Insurance, in do to help an injured animal if Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Never you are prepared,” says Dr. Jason use it more than twice a week.

Nicholas, owner of The Preventive Vet,

Honey. Apply this sweet unguent in Portland, Oregon. Attention in cases to gums to help counteract low blood of injury or sudden illness can help a sugar and shock, particularly when dog or cat stay more comfortable, stop a diabetic pet’s insulin levels are off. bleeding and provide temporary relief.

Maple syrup is a good substitute.

A pet first-aid kit can resemble a Sugar. Although not recommended pantry more than a medicine cabinet. in a regular pet diet, sugar can be a Natural components include: topical antibacterial for the short term.

Cool water. Purified water kept in Sugar draws water from the wound and a spray bottle can cool overheated pets. dehydrates bacteria, supporting growth For the fastest results, spray near the of new tissue. pulse points, the “armpits” and where

Plain yogurt. Adding this healthy fur is the thinnest. Further, a vet will refrigerated topping to dry food will assess if clinical hydration is needed activate a sluggish appetite and supply beyond the water bowl. needed cultures to help balance the

Saline solution. Versatile saline digestive system. is available at the vet’s office or any

Cornstarch. This non-toxic remedy pharmacy, and also easy and inexpenhelps stop minor bleeding from cuts, sive to make at home. Use it to flush scrapes and pedicure accidents. debris from eyes, clean wounds and

Calendula. Also known as pot promote healing from incisions. Two marigold, calendula cream may be teaspoons of non-iodized salt in four used as an anti-inflammatory. Bug bites, cups of boiled water mimscrapes, sunburn and itching from ics body fluids. The Ohio allergies also benefit from its State University Medical Cenapplication. ter website provides a recipe Aloe. Easily grown in a garfor normal saline solution at den or pot and available in gel form, Tinyurl.com/SalineRecipe. aloe sooths burns, prevents blisters Vinegar. It acts as a and speeds healing. It also serves as drying agent, especially for canine Chapstick. “Older dogs often floppy-eared dogs taking have cracked skin on their noses,” a dip in a pool or notes Benson. “Aloe helps to natural waterheal the skin and keeps the way, which can dog comfortable.” leave the inner Rescue Remedy. ear moist. “Don’t Illness or injury brings use vinegar if stress, and one common the skin is red or solution is Rescue Remedy. broken because To relieve fear or anxiety, it will be painrub it onto a paw, nose ful,” says Dr. or ears or add the recomJules Benson, vice mended number of drops president of veterinary to water, a treat or food.

South Central Wisconsin www.AwakeMadison.com 26

It helps dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish and even iguanas.

Dosage relies on the extent of stress rather than weight or species.

Clean cloths. For bee stings or insect bites on the body, cool compresses can reduce swelling and itching. Wet a washcloth with cold water or for larger welts, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply for a few minutes at a time. For stings on the face or mouth, it’s best to go to the vet’s office immediately, so that airways don’t swell up and hinder breathing.

Miscellaneous supplies. Keep on hand gauze, tape, small scissors, tweezers (for removing objects from the roof of the mouth or splinters), a small flashlight, clean socks to cover a bandage and disposable gloves to keep human germs out of open wounds. A dog in pain may bite without realizing it.

Nicholas recommends a basket muzzle, so the dog can easily breathe and pant.

When a pet eats or drinks non-food items or foods they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, grapes or onions, head to the local vet. Veterinarian Jeff Levy, in New York City, who is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist, counsels, “Always keep contact information for your vet, an emergency hospital and animal poison control center handy.” Also, find out where emergency services are located when traveling.

Pets can go into shock just like humans. To prevent or reduce the impact, keep the animal warm and provide a deep massage of the ears, at the base, where ears meet the head. A couple of drops of lavender oil on a collar or bandana will help everyone relax. Do not put essential oils directly on the pet, especially cats, as it can be toxic.

Just like children, pets may have accidents or get sick after office hours.

Stay calm, head for the natural pet pantry and then call the family’s holistic veterinarian.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLSandyM@ yahoo.com.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

27

calendarofevents

Healthy Red Velvet Cupcakes

These moist cupcakes use spelt flour for a lighter texture, more protein and fewer calories than wheat flour.

Avoid artificial colors by u s - ing vegetable-based food coloring, or make your own.

Yields 8 to 10 servings (352 calories per serving) Cupcakes 1½ cups white spelt flour 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed) ½ cup natural cane sugar ½ cup melted coconut oil (or safflower oil) 2 eggs at room temperature ¾ cup buttermilk at room temperature 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp lemon juice 3 tsp natural red food coloring

Submit your calendar of event by the 15th of each month. $10/listing.

Friday, December 6

SOLESCAPE HEALING ARTS & THE ATWOOD/WINNEBAGO WINTER FESTIVAL - 5:00-9:00. SolEscape Healing Arts will be participating in the 8th Annual Atwood-Winnegbago Winter Festival. A great opportunity to come in and meet the staff (massage therapists, Usui & Karuna Reiki Practitioners, Esthetician, Reflexologist, Acupuncturist) and learn more aobut our Infrared Sauna! We will be serving finger food and beverage and doing some free chair Massage and chair Reiki. Drawings for spa packages, service discounts and more.

608/216-9500 www.solescapehealingarts.com

Thursday, December 12

“Help and Healing on the Spiritual Path Medically Verifiable” - 7:00 pm. The ancient civilizations of humanity spoke of the existence of a higher power that can help and heal. Bruno Groening (1906–1959) called this power “Heilstrom” or healing stream. He taught how one can absorb this natural healing power. The healings, even of so called incurable diseases, are occurring now as they did during his time. A multitude of healing reports have been medically documented and provide proof of this today. In this lecture, such documented healings will be presented. Attendees will be able to experience the healing stream for themselves.

Admission is free, a donation is appreciated. Further information is available on the internet at: www. bruno-groening.org/english or phone 608 215 6373.

Will-Mar Neighborhood Center, 953 Jenifer Street, Madison, WI 53703

Agave Cream-Cheese Frosting 8 oz Neufchâtel (reduced-fat) cream cheese at room temperature 3 Tbsp plus 1 tsp agave nectar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp cornstarch Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a muffin tin with 8 to 10 cupcake liners or coat with cooking spray.

Place flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Sift cocoa powder into the bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Place sugar, oil and eggs in a separate large bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice and food coloring.

Whisk lightly until combined.

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir just until mixture comes together.

Do not overmix.

Monday, December 16

Living free of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - 6:30 – 7:30pm . Visit www.BlessedThistle.info to learn more about Dr. Decker and naturopathic medicine, or join her for this free talk. 6117 Monona Dr., Monona, WI 53716. Call 608-620-5831 if you have any questions.

Gently spoon batter into muffin cups.

Bake 10 minutes and test with a toothpick. If it doesn’t come out clean, turn pans and bake another 3 to 5 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on rack for 2 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely before frosting. (Or store in an airtight container until ready to frost. Do not refrigerate, which dries them out.)

South Central Wisconsin

Wi n t e r S o l s t i c e P a g e a n t - 7 - 9 P M a t First Unitarian Society in Madison The 34th annual Winter Solstice Pageant, hosted by Circle Sanctuary is a multicultural celebrations of traditions and folklore surrounding the Winter Solstice and the many celebrations across the world that celebrate holidays on or near the solstice. Our Solstice Pageant is a family friendly gathering, featuring appearances from costumed characters ranging from Lucia of Norway, to La Befana of Italy, Father Frost of Russia and event Santa Claus (who brings treats for the kids!) Storytellers and carols help bring the magic of the season to light. We conclude with an interfaith prayer for peace on Earth.Tickets are $10 adults/$5 youth in advance or $12 adults/$5 youth at the door. To register or for more information visit www.circlesanctuary.org/yule Women’s Winter Solstice Chakra Retreat - December 20-22. Celebrate the holidays in a unique way with all inclusive women’s winter weekend in Kettle Moraine! Chakra activities, Chakra Yoga, Intuitive Readings, Aromatherapy, Healings, Meditation, More! 1872 Shalom Drive West Bend, WI. Registration/Info contact Christina Wilke-Burbach/ Mind, Soul, and Self at www.mindsoulandself. com/Retreats.html or mindsoulandself@yahoo. com or 608.393.7353

Sunday, December 29th

Holiday Open House - 1pm-3pm. All ages invited to share holiday cheer and enjoy delicious treats, specialty chocolates, organic lemonade, wine and cheese, and a special live encore performance by Darryl Armistead featuring a fun mix of instrumentals and vocals with a repertoire of over three hundred songs covering many genres, such as standards, oldies, jazz, pop, rock, rhythm and blues. darm03@darrylarmistead.com. (608) 669-5542.

Emerson Assisted Living Boutique, Madison, WI 53718. www.emersonmadison.com

Do you have an event to share?

Submit your calendar of event by the 15th of each month. $10/listing.

Beat cream cheese, agave and vanilla together. Sift cornstarch over mixture and blend until smooth. Frost cupcakes just before serving.

28

Friday, December 20

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December 2013

29

communityresourceguide BODYWORK/ HEALING ARTS

HOLISTIC HEALTH Dr. Reek - Walnut Grove Clinic

THE CHAKRA HOUSE HEALING STUDIO & BOUTIQUE

664 W. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 608-237-6128 www.TheChakraHouse.com The Chakra House is a space to become balanced physically, emotional and spiritually. Join us for a Yoga or Zumba class, have a Chakra Balancing, take Energywork Training Courses and Workshops or just visit our boutique of candles, jewelry, crystals, music and more. It’s a candy shop for the soul!

integrative dental solutions 23770 Capitol Drive Pewaukee, WI 53072 MyNaturalDentist.com

At Integrative Dental Solutions (IDS), doctors Ingo Mahn and Supriya Shetty are committed to providing holistic dental care and using materials and methods that are the most beneficial to the overall health of their patients. See ad on back page.

FAMILY SERVICES

holisticmomsmadison@gmail.com http://madisonwi.holisticmoms.org/

Holistic Moms Network is a non-profit nation-wide organization that supports parents who are interested in green living and holistic health care. We meet the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm at the The Center For Families located at 2120 Fordem Avenue in Madison . Email us at holisticmomsmadison@ gmail.com. Visit us on Facebook and meetup.

Holistic Moms Network South Central WI Chapter

Holistic Moms is a national non-profit group connecting parents who share a passion about sustainability, natural parenting, green living and much more. Monthly meeting topics include vaccines, green cleaning, natural birth, recycling/composting, and more. We meet the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Mount Horeb Public Library, 105 Perimeter St. Meetings are 6:30-8 PM. Join us today!

South Central Wisconsin

KARING Hypnosis and Therapeutic Massage

629 Spruce St Madison WI 608-256-0080 • www.wellife.org

QUIT SMOKING-LOSE WEIGHT & MORE. Ken-Adi Ring, CH, Consulting Hypnotist, offers you an opportunity to be free of addictive habits and to feel GOOD! Ken is the only NGH Certified Instructor (CI) in Madison. Specialized treatment suited to your kneads/ requests is available.In addition to private sessions, Ken teaches the course that prepares you for certified practice. Contact him for services that will help release you from patterns, become strong and embrace a better, way of being.

PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Holistic Moms Network Madison Chapter

30

Helping restore true health through holistic alternatives, hormone testing, herbal and nutritional therapy, blood and saliva testing for chronic unresponsive conditions that have compromised your health and well being. Voted Madison Favorite - Isthmus. See ad, page 3.

HYPNOSIS

DENTISTRY

Contact Brenda Trudell or Jen Feltz holisticmomswisc@yahoo.com 608 963 6748

4200 University Ave Madison, WI 53705 WomenLivingNaturally.com WomenLivingNaturally@WomenLiving Naturally.com

Peaceful Heart Gifts & Books 123 South Main St., Oregon, WI 608-835-5288

We strive to provide products and gifts with a light-hearted, fun or inspirational quality.

Indulge your inner diva with great jewelry, healing music or an insightful book. Pick up a calendar of events featuring healers, readers, classes and other special events, or visit our website at www.peacefulheart. net.

www.AwakeMadison.com

SCHOOLS/TRAINING Tao Shiatsu Training Program Tao Sangha Center, 2330 Willard Avenue 608-257-4663 usa@taoshiastu.com www.taoshiastu.com

The International Tao Shiatsu Society has one of the highest standards and most vibrant systems of shiatsu training.

The unique hands-on curriculum allows students to realize the core principles of Oriental Medicine and become effective Tao Shiatsu therapists.

Senior Living Center Emerson Assisted Living Boutique

402 Rustic Drive, Madison, WI 53718 (608) 669-5542 www.emersonmadison.com

Beautiful Assisted Living Residence for Seniors with 8 private suites and full baths. We embrace a holistic approach to our services and care in a gracious and beautiful residence for seniors. Offering true peace of mind to families who want to give their loved one the very best care and support they need, while maintaining their independence and choices living in assisted living. It doesn’t just feel like home, it is home!

Whether it’s the

best of times or the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got. ~Art Buchwald

Celebrate the environment.

Celebrate Green Power Tomorrow.

Congratulations Madison! Green Power Tomorrow is a leading green power program thanks to your support.

It’s included in the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s top ten programs for the fourth consecutive ranking. In 2012 MGE was second among investorowned utilities for: • Customer Participation Rate • Green Power Sales as a Percentage of Total Retail Electricity Sales Not a green power customer? Join more than 11,000 MGE customers who are.

Visit mge.com/greenpower today.

GS1863 08/13/2013

7.5˝ x 10˝