"Natural Awakenings" December 2009

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET feel good live simply laugh more

FREE

10 Things

Fall in

from Health Care Reform

with Your Life

Missing

LOVE

Green

Christmas Great Gift Ideas

DECEMBER 2009 Gainesville/Ocala/The Villages | www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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We don’t just talk about the environment— We respect it.

At Natural Awakenings, we know the cost of glossy coatings on a magazine’s pages: n 33-54% increase in energy consumption, wastewater, air pollution emissions, solid waste n Coated paper is very difficult to recycle (the quantity of waste clay coating removed nearly equals that of the usable paper fiber) n The sealant coating/varnish commonly contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) n Inks that often contain heavy metals and VOCs n Higher costs to print, resulting in higher costs for advertisers —Sources: Buy Recycled Business Alliance; Turning the Page by the PAPER Project partnership; Magazine PAPER Project (CoopAmerica.org/programs/woodwise/publishers/ magazines/index.cfm For more information, visit www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com/WhyRecycled.pdf Join our family of “green” readers and advertisers. Call 352-629-4000.

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December 2009

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. Our mission is to provide information designed to improve readers’ quality of life physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural healing, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression, and products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

DEPARTMENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Opinion

newsbriefs 6

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Ten Things Missing from Health Care Reform

Fall in Love with Your Life

globalbriefs 8, 29

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Small Changes Bring Big Rewards

by Kim Childs

Inspiration

healthbriefs 10

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Having, Being and Stillness

by Father Paul Keenan

Give from the Heart

christmasbriefs 26

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

by Frances Lefkowitz

Nature’s Holiday

eventscalendar 35

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

10 Tidings of Comfort and Joy

by Colette Lafia

resourceguide 33

Healthy Pets

. . . . . . . . 23

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Stylin’ Pooches

by Grace Fuller

The Benefits of Eco-Giving

. . . . . . . . . . . . 28

HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise, please call 352-629-4000 or e-mail Ads@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for ads in the January 2010 issue is December 12th.

For your convenience, our media kit, including sizes and rates, is online at www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Design services available!

Advertisers are included online at no additional charge and receive other significant benefits.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

January Themes:

n Organic Food n Integrative Medicine

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For submission guidelines, please visit www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

E-mail articles/News Briefs to News@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for articles to be considered for the January 2010 issue is December 9th.

News Briefs deadline is December 12th.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

E-mail calendar listings to Calendar@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for calendar events in the January 2010 issue is December 12th.

Printed on recycled paper to protect the environment

publisherletter Hi, friends, Publisher Carolyn Rose Blakeslee Regional Editors Diane Childs Kim Marques, Calendar National Editors Sharon Bruckman S. Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Design + Production Stephen Gray-Blancett Carolyn Rose Blakeslee

It’s definite! Just a couple of weeks before press time, arrangements were finalized to bring you a January screening of the film “Food Matters.” In this movie, world leaders in nutrition and natural health present wonderful information about ways to treat depression, obesity, alcoholism, heart disease, cancer, dementia and many other debilitating conditions—without the need for drugs or surgery, but just good nutrition.

The film is suitable for all ages (no nasty slaughterhouse scenes), and in case you’re still unsure, check out www.FoodMatters.tv for a preview of the film.

The “Organic Food & Film Festival” will be held on Sunday, January 10, 2010, from 6-10 p.m., at the Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. The film begins at 7.

Advertising Carolyn Rose Blakeslee Corporate + Development Larry Levine John Voell II Contact Us Natural Awakenings P.O. Box 1140 Anthony, FL 32617 352-629-4000 Fax 352-351-5474 www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com Info@GoNaturalAwakenings.com Subscriptions Mailed subscriptions are available for $36/year.

Natural Awakenings Gainesville/Ocala is published every two months. 20,000 copies are distributed to health food stores, medical offices, fitness facilities, educational and spiritual centers, public libraries, restaurants and cafes throughout North Central Florida.

Natural Awakenings does not necessarily endorse the views expressed in its articles or advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products or services contained herein.

To determine whether a particular product or service is appropriate for you, consult your family physician.

Copyright ©2009 Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted if that permission has been obtained in writing.

For the hour before the movie, you can enjoy organic food samples and meet some of the people in the area who provide organic and local food, nutritional services, and holistic medical services.

After the movie, you’ll have another hour to check out the display tables. Please see the back cover of this issue to check out our list of confirmed exhibitors. Tickets can be reserved online at www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com (click on the movie “clapper” icon), or you can call 352-629-4000. Admission is $5/person in advance and $7 at the door. We strongly encourage you to make reservations so we know how much food to make!

Display space is going fast, but we still have room for selected exhibitors including organic farms, local growers’ markets, nutritionists, health food stores, and holistic/integrative physicians. To reserve a table at the event, please call me at 352-629-4000 or email Carolyn@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Carolyn www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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newsbriefs Creative Counseling Opens Second Office

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nder the guidance of Diane Alther, LCSW, Creative Counseling has opened a second office. Ms. Alther will continue to practice at 108 N. Magnolia Ave., Suite 505 in Ocala three days/week (Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays), and will be in Dunnellon at 20170 E. Pennsylvania Avenue two days/week (Wednesdays and Fridays).

Ms. Alther, who is also a Registered Nurse, Certified Hypnotherapist and a Reiki Master (both Traditional and Karuna), is, in addition, certified to practice EMDR and EFT. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, phobias, abuse issues, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Depending on her client’s comfort level, she uses a variety of effective techniques including EMDR, EFT, meditation and visualization, transformational breath work, and traditional psychotherapy and hypnotherapy.

For information on EMDR, visit www.emdrtherapists. com; for EFT, visit www.emofree.com.

Diane Alther occasionally offers seminars and grouptherapy sessions; she will be announcing such special events in the coming weeks. In the meantime, for private therapy, she can be reached at 352-425-1992.

Children: Free Admission to The Hippodrome, Nov. 29-Dec. 9

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o celebrate Christmases past, present and future, the Hippodrome Theatre is admitting children free of charge to the play “A Christmas Carol.” The offer applies to shows from Sunday, November 29 through Wednesday, December 9; one child may attend free with a paying adult plus a donated non-perishable food item or an unwrapped new toy.

For more information, contact the Hippodrome in Gainesville at 352-375-4477, www.thehipp.org.

World Healing Day December 31

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n December 31, 1986, at noon Greenwich Time (7:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time), men, women, and children around the world gathered to participate in the largest known prayer activity in history—a planetary affirmation of peace and love, forgiveness and understanding, involving millions of people in a simultaneous global connection. It was called World Healing Day, and the hope was to create a moment of Oneness to dissolve the sense of separation and return humankind to Godkind.

On December 31, 2009, all are invited to gather at Unity of Ocala at 7:00 a.m. to participate in a time of meditation and prayer devoted to restoring humankind to a consciousness of peace and forgiveness. The 45-minute service will be led by Rev. Marylou Palmer. Following the service, all attendees are invited to go to breakfast at a local restaurant.

For directions or more information, contact Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Road, Ocala, FL 34472, 352-687-2113, www.unityocala.org.

Sensual Goddess Dance Classes

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xotic dance classes are the new dance and fitness craze sweeping the nation. And no wonder: participants find exotic dance class to be a safe, encouraging, and easy place to tap into their inner “sensual goddess.”

Women are invited to attend a free, introductory class and learn loving affirmations for the body and various “goddess” dance moves. Donna Davis, who spent 13 years as an exotic dancer and feature entertainer traveling the country, will be facilitating. She taught at the School for Feature Entertainers in Eagle River, Wisconsin.

Attendees are invited to bring veils, heels, jewelry, and your body, no matter what size. The introductory class will be held on Sunday, December 6th at 1:00 p.m. at the OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 N.E. 28th Ave., Ocala, FL. Information: 352-629-3897.

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Printed on recycled paper to protect the environment

newsbriefs Indoor Walk Classes

Creative Counseling

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arbara Barnett, Leslie Sansone Certified Walk Leader, is opening the doors to a better way to walk for health and weight loss by offering “live” indoor walk classes. The walk classes will be conducted using the indoor walking techniques established and proven through the many years of success of Leslie Sansone’s Walk At Home programs.

Classes are offered at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34th Street, Gainesville, Tuesdays and Fridays 9:00-10:00 a.m., $7/session for 8 sessions, or $10 drop-in beginning January 2010. Call 912-492-9156 or visit www.self-esteem-2-the-core.com.

Diane Alther, LCSW, RN, CHt, Traditional & Karuna Reiki Master Specializing in Depression v Anxiety v Grief v Phobias Abuse Issues v Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Using EMDR v EFT v Meditation v Breath Work Stress Management v Hypnosis 108 N. Magnolia Ave., Suite 505, Ocala 20170 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon Voice 352-425-1992 v Fax 352-465-2118

News Briefs are continued on Page 11 ...

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1 display ad x 12 = 1 year = n 12 display ads + n 60 FREE Calendar listings + n 4 FREE News Briefs + n 1 FREE article + n 1 (or more) FREE “Natural

Network” memberships +

promotional opportunities + n 65,000+ readers + 500 locations + n Internet presence in three

places (Facebook, our

web site, our publish site) + n The best prices in town = ____________________________ A LOT MORE FOR YOUR MONEY!

Why just place an ad when you can become part of a community?

352-629-4000 / www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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globalbriefs Disposable Habit

Choose Rechargeable Batteries Instead

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mericans buy about 3 billion household batteries a year (about 10 per person), according to the Environmental Protection Agency—and nearly all end up in landfills. Unlike disposable alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries can be reused hundreds of times, saving money and resources, while reducing pollution associated with their manufacture and transport.

Other tips to ensure a greener habit: Choose an Energy Star-rated or solar-powered charger; select an energy-smart charger that shuts off when batteries are fully charged (overcharging shortens battery life); unplug the charger when not in use; don’t leave batteries uncharged or unused for long periods (also shortens their life); remove batteries from infrequently used devices and store away from heat and moisture; and recycle, or dispose of batteries properly as municipal hazardous waste.

Locate nearby retailers that recycle batteries at Call2Recycle.org.

Sources: GreentipsOnline.com and GreenLivingTips.com

We Care

Fund a Favorite Charity at No Extra Cost

C Join us on Facebook and we’ll directly alert you of upcoming events and important health stories.

Look for NATURAL AWAKENINGS Magazine of Gainesville/Ocala.

Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.

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onscious shoppers spend their money wisely. But when they do shop, they can feel good about automatically donating a percentage of their online purchases to their favorite charity at no extra cost to them. We-Care.com is a user-friendly “click through” website that gives shoppers access to 800 retailers online, and then lets them choose among hundreds of charities to benefit from their purchase.

They can even add a charity to the options if it’s not already listed. Nonprofit categories range from peace and justice, women’s advocacy, animal welfare and disaster relief to arts, education and environmental causes.

Healthy Playthings

EcoLogo Program Will Extend to Toys Next Christmas

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he EcoLogo Program, known for two decades for certifying the world’s 7,000 most sustainable products, this year turned its attention to initiating its first environmental standard for toys.

“Growing numbers of toys and children’s products have been making environmental claims like ‘all natural’ and ‘Earth friendly,’ without providing any proof of the accuracy or relevance of the claims,” explains Scot Case, executive director.

EcoLogo standards for toys are being developed in an open, public, transparent process, with input from interested parents, grandparents, manufacturers, retailers, government agencies and nonprofit advocacy groups. Once the stringent standard of environmental leadership is finalized, a manufacturer must demonstrate compliance to win the EcoLogo mark.

Monitor progress of the new green toy standard at TerraChoice-certified.com/ en under the drop-down menu “Standards in Development or Review.” Contact is Katherine Stewart at KStewart@EcoLogo.org, 613-247-1900.

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opinion

Ten Things Missing from Health Care Reform Debate

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f we’re going to fix our health care system, we have to come up with something that actually addresses the root cause of disease in America,” says Mike Adams, founder of NaturalNews. com, an online news source for personal and planetary wellness. “The current health care reform debate in Washington is really just… a ploy to keep everyone focused on all the wrong topics, while quietly refusing to talk about the big issues that threaten the health of an entire nation.”

Adams cites these reforms missing from President Obama’s health plan: n Ending the Food and Drug Administration’s suppression of natural cures and safe, effective nutritional supplements.

corn syrup the cheapest sweetener for manufacturers to use. n Affirming health freedom for parents who wish to opt out of the current system of forced vaccinations and gunpoint-enforced chemotherapy.

Coming in January Integrative Medicine The future of healthcare

n Requiring honest food labeling that clearly identifies foods that are irradiated and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

For more information visit the source at NaturalNews.com/health_care.html.

Read and sign the petition for genuine improvements at HealthRevolutionPetition.org.

n Educating the public about how to prevent disease with nutrition. n Ending big pharmaceutical corporations’ monopoly on drug prices and patents. n Restoring the ability of local doctors to practice medicine without being controlled by bureaucrats in Washington. n Cracking down on ads for junk foods, sodas and pharmaceuticals that convince people to purchase harmful products. n Banning dangerous chemical ingredients that cause diseases in the first place, such as aspartame, sodium nitrite and monosodium glutamate (MSG). n Improving school lunches by serving nutritional foods, instead of what’s cheap and convenient. n Ending food subsidies on crops like corn, which make high-fructose www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Plus:

“The Organic Food & Film Festival” Sunday, January 10, 2010 6-10 p.m.

Ocala, FL For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

352-629-4000 December 2009

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healthbriefs

Good Foods for a Healthy Holiday Bash • Beverage options include lowercalorie drinks, such as mineral water with spritzers of lime or orange juice, iced holiday-flavored herbal teas, light beer and holiday punches made with pure fruit juices and sparkling water.

• Fruit and vegetable trays do double duty as edible centerpieces. Go for color and texture. Enrich with low-fat cheeses, nuts and dried fruits, such as apricots, dates and cranberries.

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inter just would not be the same without family, friends, music, decor and yes, those much-anticipated holiday parties. With a few simple tricks and a substitution here or there, the all-important party foods can be both delicious and healthy. Guests will walk away from a brighter, lighter table, satisfied and in good cheer.

• Dips and spreads become healthier with low-fat sour cream, yogurt or neufchâtel cheese, a cream cheese naturally lower in fat. A dash of fresh herbs boosts flavor and nutrition.

• Whole wheat rolls, pita wedges or multigrain French bread, served with appetizers and dinner, are filling and pack a punch in fiber and protein.

• Choose side dishes that need little

“dressing up,” such as sweet potatoes, wild rice or barley.

• Fish and seafood serve as festive, healthy main courses.

• Buy local, grass-fed beef and free-range turkey. Buy locally grown vegetables at area farmers’ markets or organic farms. Local fresh foods simply taste better, besides which they are better for you.

• Simple ingredient changes cut the fat and sugar, while adding nutritional value and flavor to traditional dishes.

Examples include replacing a third of the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower or adding mashed peas to avocados for a great dip with half the fat.

Primary sources: Adapted from WebMD.com, NaturalSolutionsMag. com, Life.Gaiam.com.

Coping with Grief During the Holidays

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oliday celebrations, traditionally memorable for their joys and happiness, can be tough emotional sledding for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Experts counsel that acknowledging the fact that the holidays won’t be the same without the deceased is a first step toward being at peace with the activities unfolding around us.

Then, we need to decide what we can handle and how much responsibility we are willing to assume; this might mean letting others do the shopping or cooking. Getting enough rest is crucial; if we need time alone, we should honor that need.

It can help to create new traditions that include the deceased in a loving way. We might light a candle, display a photo or revisit photo albums of good times, thus including the life of our loved one in our conversations and celebrations.

We could even hang a stocking in the name of the beloved for family and friends to stuff with notes, thereby sharing their feelings with us.

Holidays are not about “shoulds,” but about what’s comfortable and best for our family and us. If this is the first holiday without a loved one and celebrating seems impossible, we can instead celebrate winter, by engaging in a physical nature activity. Whatever we do, we can know that grieving is a necessary and healthy process and that healing is possible.

Adapted from GriefAndRenewal.com, Griefnet.org and HospiceFoundation.org.

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newsbriefs Unity of Gainesville News

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n Sunday, December 6, international speaker and award-winning author, Rev. Dr. Barbara Flood, will present the workshop, “Creating a Living Legacy.” Rev. Flood explains, “A living legacy carries within it the full story of our lives as we offer our wisdom and journey to the many generations to come. In our time together we will explore and deepen our understanding of that legacy, sometimes referred to as an ethical will; the bequeathing of our greatest gifts and our most profound responsibilities.”

The workshop will be held from 1:00-3:30 p.m. at Unity of Gainesville, 8801 N.W. 39th Ave., with a suggested love offering of $20.

On Friday, December 11, the

“Voices of Unity” from Unity of Gainesville will be performing at Shands Hospital as part of the Arts in Medicine (AIM) for the Holidays event.

This is an annual event featuring local groups, and AIM musicians and volunteers, in a festive concert from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. celebrating the season.

All are welcome.

Call 352-373-1030 for more information on these programs.

From Recovery to Self Discovery

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n a workshop called “From Recovery to Self Discovery,” attendees are invited to deepen the impact of their personal recovery program by experi-

encing an organic and non-judgmental yogic approach to self-awareness of habits and patterns. Participants will learn techniques to enjoy and live life in a surrendered lifestyle, and will enjoy group discussions, guided experiences and meditation.

The workshop will be led by Joe Ferrara (Prakash), senior instructor specializing in bringing all aspects of yoga to the recovery community, on Sunday, December 13, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Amrit Yoga Institute, 23859 N.E. County Rd. 314, Salt Springs FL. For information, email info@amrityoga.org, or call 352-685-3001. A $15 donation includes light breakfast and lunch—participants may also stay overnight and participate in Sunday morning yoga for an additional $25.

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352-620-2737

December 2009

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newsbriefs Couples Retreats: Not Just a Movie

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f the movie “Couples Retreat” has caught your attention, you might be interested in a real-life opportunity to reinvigorate your relationship at an exotic tropical location this winter. EcoTulum Resort & Spa, located on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is hosting a week-long event for couples, January 2330. Led by Richard & Diana Daffner, M.A., authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, this retreat experience offers participants a fun and meaningful workshop program, with an emphasis on body/mind harmony and authentic loving presence. Romantic villas with tubs-for-two have private decks overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

In addition to learning exercises to enhance intimacy, passion and communication skills, the workshop includes a tour of Mayan ruins and a Mayan purification ceremony. Optional activities include daily yoga, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, kite boarding, jungle zip-lines, massage, and relaxing on the beach. Lodging prices range from $35/night for a simple

beach cabana to $260/night for the ultimate villa. The sevenday workshop fee is $1,195/couple.

In addition, the Daffners will hold weekend workshops this winter in Siesta Key (Sarasota, FL), on December 11-13, January 1-3 and 15-17, and February 12-14. For details and photos, visit www.IntimacyRetreats.com or www.TantraMexico.com, or call 941-349-6804.

UF Part of Registry for Research Studies

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eople within the University of Florida community who want to participate in research studies can now connect online with researchers nationwide by joining ResearchMatch.org. UF is one of 52 institutions participating.

ResearchMatch is part of the Clinical and Translational Science Awards Consortium, a national network of medical research institutions working together to improve how biomedical research is conducted. The CTSA is led by the National Center for Research Resources of the National Institutes of Health. The site reaches beyond just federally sponsored clinical trials.

After an individual has registered, ResearchMatch’s security features ensure that personal information is protected.

Volunteers are notified electronically that they are a possible match to a specific study that may be of interest to them, and then they can decide whether to release their contact information.

“ResearchMatch offers a convenient solution to the complex, competitive and often costly participant recruitment system,” said Gordon Bernard, M.D., principal investigator of the Vanderbilt CTSA, which hosts the national registry. “NIH data indicates that 85 percent of trials don’t finish on time due to low patient participation, and 30 percent of trial sites fail to enroll even a single patient. We aim to help combat these challenges with ResearchMatch.”

For more information, visit www.researchmatch.org. Recent UF Health Science Center news releases are available at www.news.health.ufl.edu/

Yoga Workshop

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amadhi is the “key” to the highest domain of yoga. “The Hacker’s Guide to Samadhi,” an experiential workshop, is open to everyone interested in yoga and meditation. Past participants have reported that spending an afternoon in this workshop has had a profound effect on their practice.

Workshop leader Chandrakant is senior seminar leader at the Amrit Yoga Institute and has studied with Yogi Amrit Desai for more than 30 years.

The donation-based event will be held Sunday, Decem

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newsbriefs ber 6, 2009, 2:00-4:30, Andrew Jackson Davis Bldg., 1112 Stevens St., Cassadaga, FL. For information, contact chandrakant@amrityoga.org, 386-228-2880, 386-228-3171.

Traditional Thai Massage

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he Florida School of massage will be offering a 90-hour training in traditional Thai massage. The class will meet five times throughout the year. For more information, call 352-336-7835.

Cuvee Update

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onstruction has delayed the Grand Opening of Cuvee Wine & Bistro. However, they are now hiring—interested applicants are invited to stop by the restaurant from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday at 2237 S.W. 19th Avenue Road, Suite 102, Ocala. Anticipating being open to the public soon, the restaurant is also inviting people to book events. Call 352-351-1816 for more information.

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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Fall in Love with Your Life Small changes bring big rewards.

An Attitude of Gratitude

by Kim Childs

Each January, the lure of a fresh new year inspires many of us to plan healthy lifestyle changes. By February, even modest goals may fall victim to a loss of motivation or the triumph of old habits.

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f our latest resolutions are unrealistic (adding two hours of daily meditation to an overloaded life), too drastic (going from junk food to raw food in the middle of winter) or unsupported (vowing to think positively in a climate of naysayers), they may be doomed before they are uttered. According to the life coaches consulted by Natural Awakenings, the most effective life makeovers involve starting where we are, taking small steps, setting boundaries and reaching out for support on the journey. Here’s what these experts advise when setting out to make lasting changes.

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“The first thing is to look at what’s already working,” recommends Victoria Moran, a writer, speaker and life coach. “So often, we just say ‘Ack—I want everything to be different,’ but we all have lots of things that are working well now.”

Moran, author of several books, including the forthcoming Living a Charmed Life: Your Guide to Finding Magic in Every Moment and Meaning in Every Day, advises listing 10 things for which they are grateful before leaving bed each morning.

“These don’t have to be giant things,” notes Moran, “but ‘I’m grateful for this cat sleeping on my chest; grateful that the sun is shining; grateful that I made this terrific pot of chili and there’s some left over.’ Your day is now going to be built on the positive framework of all that you have going for you.”

Moran also recommends taking quiet time in the morning for prayer, meditation or journaling before the day’s agenda begins to tug and pull. A student of comparative religions, she observes that most spiritual traditions embrace a practice of going within to access higher wisdom. Tapping this inner guidance is essential to crafting an authentic life and staying centered in the midst of change.

“I recommend lighting a candle on your bedside table,” Moran says, “so that when you come back from the bathroom

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and your brain is already saying ‘You don’t have time for this, you have all these things to do,’ that little candle is just there, saying, ‘Oh, come on, sit.’”

Honor the Body, One Day at a Time Moran also stresses the importance of “taking care of the vehicle,” when designing a life makeover. This means having a daily exercise and nutrition plan.

“Regardless of what you want in life, you have to get it in this physical body,” she says. “And because the brain is part of the body, you’re not going to have a very good shot at changing your attitude and thinking positive thoughts if those thoughts have to be filtered through a brain that is living on junk food and doesn’t get enough oxygen because you don’t exercise.”

At the same time, Moran predicts failure for those who plan overambitious diet and exercise plans that don’t allow for occasional off days. The prospect of cutting out sugar forever, for instance, may scare someone away from even cutting down. Moran, who successfully overcame her own food and weight issues decades ago, quotes the 12-Step slogan of “One day at a time,” when counseling people who set out to change their lives.

“Even I cannot say that every day for the rest of my life I will mediate and exercise,” she says. “I know that’s not true. But for today, I can do that, and this is the only day I have.”

Just Say No Once we have begun to make positive changes, we may need to clean up the environment in which our old, self-destructive habits flourished. People pleasers, for example, may have to start saying no and set boundaries where none existed. Cheryl Richardson, a bestselling author, radio host and authority on life coaching, says that as people begin to practice better care for themselves, their relationships may change. In her new book, The Art of Extreme Self-Care, Richardson has a chapter entitled “Let Me Disappoint You.”

“That chapter speaks to the reality that in order to live a high-quality life—a life that truly honors your self-care—you have to master the art of disappointing people, making them angry and hurting their feelings,” she counsels. “That’s just the truth.”

Richardson says that women, in particular, try to avoid the discomfort that comes from displeasing others or letting them down. As a result, they can end up living for others, becoming resentful or even sick, and struggling with intimate relationships when resentments build. Richardson advises women to check in with themselves before responding to requests and to tell the truth, even if it’s unpopular.

“Craft a response that is respectful, but direct,” she says. “Become able to say to someone, ‘I’m sorry, I’m not going to be able to baby-sit your children this weekend.’ Not, ‘I really wish I could, but I can’t,’ when the truth is, you really don’t wish you could, and you don’t want to.”

Online Resources for Life Makeovers CoachU.com – to find a coach or become one

43Things.com and Intent.com – social networking sites for sharing dreams and goals

SelfGrowth.com – information on personal growth

BeliefNet.com

– to explore your spirituality and find inspiration

ChoosingProsperity.com – for support in attracting more prosperity

Abraham-hicks.com

– the origin of the Law of Attraction teachings

MindMovies.com

– make an online movie about the life you envision

Start Here and Now Life makeovers also involve setting boundaries with ourselves, says Richardson, and taking an honest look at the areas of our lives that are messy, neglected or out of balance. She notes that a simple way to start is to clean up www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Seeking sales associates in Gainesville and The Villages. Email resume to: Carolyn@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

December 2009

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one place in our home, car or office that’s cluttered, and enjoy the feeling of spaciousness that follows. More comprehensive changes may benefit from professional help, says Richardson, who hired a personal coach at the beginning of her own coaching career, with life-altering results.

“My home and my work environments became beautiful places to live and work in,” she recalls. “My finances improved dramatically. I eliminated my debt, I created an investment plan and I stopped giving away so much of my precious time and energy to people who didn’t appreciate it.”

Today, Richardson coaches people on how to create lifestyles and environments that honor their deepest need for things like joy, beauty, rest, creative expression and peace. She says the pursuit of bigger dreams and desires may take a back seat to meeting basic needs at first.

“If you’re struggling financially, you should be investing in your financial health,” says Richardson. “If your house looks like a bomb went off in it, you really should be focused on making your home environment more soul-nourishing. If your relationships are one-way streets and they’re not headed in your direction, you should focus on either telling the truth in your relationships or letting some toxic people go.”

Create a Circle of Support

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When we start to practice these forms of self-care, our real dreams and desires become more apparent, Richardson says. The challenge is to stay on track, especially when family members or friends don’t understand or appreciate our new ways, and old habits slip back in. Without support and accountability, she observes, most people will fall short of long-lasting success.

To help her readers get and stay on course, Richardson encourages them to create free Life Makeover™ groups, based on the concepts and practices outlined in her books. Her website allows people to connect with others on the same path and to create support groups in their own communities, using guidelines found on the site. Richardson currently counts about 4,000 such Life Makeover groups around the world.

In Upton, Massachusetts, Jennifer Copley Downing created her own group eight years ago, when she felt a need for community and connection. Today, she has seven “sisters” in her life, who have shared challenges and triumphs around careers, relationships, health, parenting and elder care.

“Working in groups keeps you accountable and supported; you don’t feel like you are doing all this alone,” Copley Downing says. “Most important, you can know that you’re not losing your mind—that others have gone through similar things and think the same way.”

Little Assists from Lots of Friends Bob Doyle took the group support idea to a new level when he created the free Boundless Living Challenge (BLC) on the Internet last summer. Doyle, who teaches an online program called “Wealth Beyond Reason,” was featured in the movie, The Secret. The film describes a universal Law of Attraction, wherein a person’s thoughts, emotions and expectations shape their life experiences. The film encourages viewers to envision the lives of their dreams. In Doyle’s ongoing BLC, thousands of people are doing this in a public forum.

Begin or end each day with a list of 10 things you appreciate and are grateful for. Write or speak them aloud, perhaps with a gratitude buddy.

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“The idea was to give them an environment to basically state an intention in a very visible way,” says Doyle. “And, in addition to having the tools and resources [on the website], they’ve got this community of people who are also up to some pretty powerful things in their lives—all different kinds of things—but all have a common goal, which is that they want to get unstuck and they want to accomplish something.”

People use blogs, photos and videos on the site to describe their desires and track their progress and challenges along the way. Fellow BLC members offer support, advice and encouragement as they share their own struggles and report victories in the areas of health, creativity, career, relationships and business pursuits. The process creates online friendships and communities of support for when the going gets rough.

Similar social networking sites for posting desires and connecting with like-minded seekers include 43things.com and Intent.com.

Doyle participated in his own challenge program by stating a goal of performing live music. “What I discovered during the course of this challenge is that I had real stuff about looking stupid or making a mistake or not being perfect,” Doyle recalls, “and so it was about breaking through all of that and just going out there and expressing myself through musical performance, whether or not it was perfect, and being okay with that.”

Change One Thing, Change Everything Doyle says that the breakthroughs that he made spilled into other areas of his life related to self-expression, a carryover effect common among participants who take risks and push beyond their comfort zones in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Not everyone realizes their stated goal in the suggested 45-day time frame, says Doyle, but most people see progress.

“I was talking to someone the other day whose challenge is to write a book,” Doyle reports, “and I asked her if it had gotten done in the first 45 days. She said no, but it was nearly competed, and that it would have gotten nowhere if she had not taken the challenge.”

After completing their initial challenge, it’s not unusual for people to continue to post information and updates in order to stay connected to a community of kindred, encouraging spirits. Doyle himself has taken on another challenge and enlisted the help of coaches and friends to keep progressing in the work that he’s been living and teaching for years.

“Because it doesn’t matter how much you know intellectually about a particular thing,” says Doyle. “There’s always going to be somebody who sees you differently than you are able to see yourself.”

For more about Bob Doyle’s programs, visit WealthBeyondReason.com or BoundlessLiving.com.

Information about Cheryl Richardson’s books, DVDs and radio program is posted at CherylRichardson.com. Find Victoria Moran’s books, blog and newsletter at VictoriaMoran.com. www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Success Stories Breakthroughs among the 6,000 participants in Bob Doyle’s first Boundless Living Challenge exemplify the triumphs possible for us all in the areas of health, creativity, career and more.

Paula Strauss – Walking Without Crutches Paula’s focus was to walk without crutches after using them for seven years, following 12 different surgeries. She credits the encouragement and support of participants in the challenge for her ability to reclaim the use of her legs. After 45 days, she could consistently walk 40 steps without the use of crutches.

Wendi – From Couch Potato to Walking a Half Marathon Wendi says that she wanted to get serious about her health and eating habits. She hired a trainer, made healthy changes to her diet, cut down her cigarette smoking by half, received acupuncture treatments and engaged in more self-care. In less than two months, she not only completed a walking half marathon, but also lost 22 pounds.

Gill Manly – On the Road to Becoming Debt Free Gill was on the verge of bankruptcy and in danger of defaulting on her mortgage and losing her home. She was determined to change her circumstances and turn her life around. Aside from improving her financial situation, Gill’s long-time dream was to land a record deal. Gill has sung jazz tunes for years and believed she has what it takes to become a professional recording artist. Within weeks, she manifested a record deal with Linn Records, a UK company that’s home to Britain’s major jazz performers.

Jonathon Ruckman – Career Caught Wings This New York-based actor had been auditioning for eight months without booking a single commercial, television or film role. He reports that because of the support of the online community he booked three movie roles in six weeks.

Jonathan also attracted a dinner meeting with a top New York agent who expressed interest in casting him in a multi-million dollar film project. Although Jonathon considered himself successful with the Law of Attraction, his career goals kept eluding him, until now.

Source: Stellar Communications

December 2009

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Our prime purpose in this life is to help others.

And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.

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- Dalai Lama

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inspiration

Having, Being and Stillness

by Father Paul Keenan

I

have a friend whose spiritual practice relies heavily on affirmations. I ran into him the other day, and he was completely beside himself with joy. “I was waiting for the bus,” he told me. “The sun was just coming up, a huge ball of light on a glorious morning. I stood there, basking in its warmth, when suddenly the thought crossed my mind, ‘I feel like a million dollars.’ Before I knew what hit me, another thought rolled in: ‘I am a million dollars! I am a million dollars God is sending into the universe today to make it a better place.’

“All my life, I have thought about wealth as something that I have, not as something that I am. Perhaps, if I thought of myself as wealth that God is sharing with the Universe, instead of thinking of my wealth as something outside of me, I would eliminate the awareness of separation between myself and my wealth.”

I could only advise my friend not to adopt his new insight for the sake of getting more wealth, or he would create the separation once again. His excited musings started me on a train of thought about the difference between having and being. Can you have what you are not?

Most of us don’t see any connection between being and having. It’s living out of who we are, not out of what we have, that makes life worthwhile. And, unless we focus on being, we can never really have.

The way in to being is through stillness. “Be still, and know that I am God”—it is in meditation, in quiet walks in the park, when standing in awe before a sunrise or a sunset, and in the pause between two affirmations that there comes the stillness that is the very heart and soul of who we are and the place of encounter with God. It is the still point between the sobs of a grieving parent. It is in the space between the canvas and the artist’s brush, in the space between two heartbeats. We hear it between two notes of music and between two clangs of a church bell. www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

In stillness, we join forces with the God of creation and declare that the world is good and very good. Like God, we are not daunted by the power of evil—we respect it, even as we go for its Achilles’ heel, much as an electrical repairperson handles downed wires carefully, knowing full well how to get them up and running again.

Stillness bestows those powers upon us all. So, here’s to my much-excited friend at his bus stop. His stillness in the sun led to insight and exuberance, which he shared with me and I have shared with you. Stillness is contagious like that.

Having caught it, we must now let it catch us, so that we can, in turn, give it to the world.

Source: Excerpted from the late Father Paul Keenan’s column for SoulfulLiving.com. For information about his writings, including his new book, If You Want to Change Your Mind, You Have to Open Your Heart, visit FatherPaul.com.

December 2009

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be inspired...

Give from the Heart this season

Presents allow us to express our love and gratitude.

Why, then, do we get so stressed out over them, and how can we bring sense and significance back to the season?

by Frances Lefkowitz

T

hough many complain about the commercialism of the holiday season, no one—not even the twosizes-too-small-hearted Grinch—would wish to get rid of presents.

At its core, the exchange of gifts is a joyous ritual. Those robes, orchids and batches of oatmeal cookies we bestow every year let us acknowledge important relationships and strengthen bonds with friends, family and our community.

“To give a gift to someone is to say, ‘I am connected to you, and I know you well enough to know what you like,’” advises M.J. Ryan, author of Attitudes of Gratitude.

Faced with a holiday season that’s too often fraught with chaos, stress, waste and debt, it’s easy to lose track of the pleasure and meaning of giving. But, by remembering what lies at the heart of

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this singular season and looking afresh at our impulses to give and receive, we can make these days feel more like the spiritual celebrations they were meant to be.

Look for the meaning One way to bring meaning back to the holidays is to remember that they are holy days. “Welcome in the spirit of whatever you’re celebrating, whether it be Christmas, Hanukkah or the solstice,” says Barbara Biziou, author of The Joys of Everyday Ritual and The Joy of Family Rituals. Biziou advocates reviving the family’s traditional ways of celebrating or creating new rituals, such as making ornaments together or cooking a meal for a neighbor or stranger, if the old ones no longer feel

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meaningful. Instead of obsessing about presents, we can spend this season connecting with people through the sharing of food, warmth and hospitality.

Ryan has found a way to make sure that everyone around her table remembers the holiday’s true meaning: At her dinner, each person takes a turn listening, as the others tell what they appreciate about her or him.

“When we feel gratitude for what we have received, we have an experience of fullness,” comments Ryan.

“From that fullness, you naturally want to give back. This is true generosity, not obligatory giving. It’s recognizing what we have, and then sharing it.”

The good gift Great pleasure is found in giving—or receiving—just the right gift. Last

One way to bring meaning back to the holidays is to remember that they are holy days.

Christmas, for example, Ryan’s husband gave her a box of 12 envelopes, one for each month; inside each envelope was a picture of one of her favorite flowers that she could then trade in for an actual bouquet. This was a successful present, she explains, because it demonstrated how well her husband knew her—plus, it lasted all year long.

Ultimately, the best gifts are the ones given from the heart, gifts that infuse these rituals with feelings and values. They’re the ones that bring joy to the recipient and the giver—joy to the world. Even the Grinch realized this, right before his heart grew three sizes: “’Maybe Christmas,’ he thought, ‘doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas

perhaps means a little bit more.’”

Who could argue with Dr. Seuss?

Frances Lefkowitz is an awardwinning writer, editor and reviewer whose work is widely published via print and subscription radio.

6 great gifts According to the Center for a New American Dream, 54 percent of 21st century Americans surveyed “feel that spending less money on gifts will allow them to focus on the true meaning of the holidays.” Here are some gift ideas that won’t break the time or money bank.

Personalized cookbook. Give friends recipes for the kinds of food they enjoy. Throughout the year, clip items from magazines and newspapers, and then compile them into a store-bought journal.

Something of your own. Giving away things you love to people upi love is always meaningful, whether it’s a family heirloom, a piece of jewelry or a favorite book.

Photographs. Who doesn’t adore a picture of the grandkids, a childhood snapshot of ourselves with our best friend, or a visual memento from last summer’s camping trip? Frame a single photo, put a series in an album, or pick 12 and have them made into a calendar at the photo shop.

Gift of experience. Giving activities—a spa day for two, a wine tasting or sports tickets—brings people together. Theatre dates, hikes, brunch, or a trip to a favorite organic store are other good options.

A donation. Send a check to someone’s favorite charity in lieu of a gift (make sure it’s their favorite cause, not yours). Or, ask friends if you can join them in their volunteer work.

Ho-Ho-Holistic health care. If your dear one has chronic pain (or even if they don’t), treat them to a visit to a chiropractor or massage therapist. More ideas: a yoga class, or a session with a life coach.

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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Nature’s Holiday

I

n early agricultural societies, where survival depended upon the cycles of nature, people developed rituals to acknowledge the winter solstice, the longest, darkest night of the year, as it gives way to lighter and longer days. The winter solstice falls around December 21.

The Zoroastrians celebrated the solstice as the birthday of the Sun; early Scandinavians paid tribute to their Yule time, burning logs for light and warmth; and Celtic Druids hung green holly to make way for spring. Eventually, modern religions merged some of these celebrations with their own.

An appreciation of nature is essential to recovering meaning in whatever holidays we observe, says Barbara Biziou, author of The Joys

of Everyday Ritual. We need to make time to notice the lengthening nights, changes in the landscape and gradual return of the light. As we decorate our evergreens and hang holly and mistletoe, we can cherish them all as long-held symbols of hope and endurance.

In the natural world, winter is a slow, quiet period. Biziou approaches this season as “a stopping time,” when she can pause, reflect back, and meditate on what the coming year offers.

In this way, she notes, we’re better able to “welcome in the spirit” of our particular festivities and shift our focus away from material objects. “These holidays really had nothing to do with gift-giving,” says Biziou. “Gifts are a modern addition and were originally meant just for children.”

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10 Tidings of Holiday Comfort and Joy

by Colette Lafia

1

Bring the gift of comfort to others by taking time to listen.

This holiday season, anytime you ask, “How are you?”, take the time to really listen. Listening to another is a true gift of comfort in our busy world.

2

Give yourself a comfort break.

During this bustling season, it’s vital to slow down. Take a leisurely walk in the park, quietly meander through a museum, or sit for a spell in a café, sipping a warm beverage.

into a nourishing conversation, even it’s just about the weather or the food.

8

Discover the joys of gratitude.

Express gratitude, one of the best gifts of all, throughout the day. Give a sincere “Thank you,” to those around you for their friendship or service; to a colleague for helping with a project; to your partner for packing your lunch; or to a child who brings you a holiday present she made in school.

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Find simple ways to create a holiday feeling at home.

A cozy and welcoming home brings the holiday spirit to those who live there and everyone who visits. Fill the house with the aroma of freshly baked cookies, the sound of cheerful relaxing music, or the presence of a vase of flowers or bowl of fresh fruit.

Let everyday routines be a continual source of comfort.

During the holidays, it’s important to stay connected with everyday comforts. Enjoy the pleasure of that first sip of coffee or tea. Snuggle into bed at night with a good book. Take a warm and relaxing bath. Notice the simple, daily rituals that bring you contentment and joy.

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3

Imagine a spirited thread connecting every human being.

Engaging with the web of life can provide endless joys. Rather than be tempted to consider others to be in our way, remember that we are the way. Expressing a kind and helpful spirit uplifts us all.

5

Receive the presence of another person’s tears.

Many emotions bubble up around the holidays.

Accepting someone’s tears of regret or grief, without judgment or interruption, is a healing gift. Sometimes there’s nothing to figure out and no fix is needed; a shoulder on which to rain tears is sufficient.

6

Give a present of physical comfort and joy.

Make use of the five senses. Give gifts to touch, smell and taste: a soft sweater, lavender bubble bath, CD of favorite music, new journal, or flavored jar of honey.

7

Enjoy the ease of being with family.

When you gather with family, let the comfort of togetherness be stronger than any judgment or criticism. Walk over to a relative, sit down, and ease

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Look for opportunities to help one another.

Be open and aware of others who may need a little encouragement or support during the holiday season. Call a friend to meet for coffee, offer a helping hand to someone in need, donate extra clothes or blankets to a homeless shelter, or spend an afternoon with kids making holiday cards.

The true spirit of the holiday season shows up and shines forth in both the giving and receiving.

Colette Lafia is the author of Comfort and Joy: Simple Ways to Care for Ourselves and Others. She has a San Francisco-based spiritual direction practice and trained with the Spiritual Directors’ Institute in Mercy Center, CA. Connect at ColetteLafia. com.

December 2009

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Stylin’

healthypet

POOCHES

by Grace Fuller

T

oday’s pampered pooches are stepping out in style.

From apparel bejeweled in Swarovski crystals to sportycamouflaged fleeced hoodies, members of the canine crowd “dressed to the nines” strutted their stuff on runways last month during Manhattan’s fourth annual Pet Fashion Week.

The movement to turn four-legged barkers into fashionistas is perpetuated in the name of charity before an audience of retail buyers committed to the pet lifestyle industry. It’s the admittedly extreme end of a $3.9 billion nationwide market for canine clothing and accessories, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

Animal lovers bent on caring for the Earth, as well as their furry friends, can wrap them in affordable, comforting togs like the $12 Namaste Buddha Dog Tee. Scores of eco-pet fashions are available, and some retailers donate a percentage of the profits to an animal rescue organization.

Barbara Savidge and Gina Quiroga, co-owners of Olive Green Dog, represent their own line as well as other sources of organic pet clothing and related green goods. Involved in the human health and wellness industry prior to 2006, both women noticed that their clients were beginning to apply what they knew about green products and sustainability to the well-being of their pets. “While we wanted to cater to the trend, it was initially challenging, because of the limited amount of green products,” says Savidge. “In the last few years, however, that has changed.”

She has also noted another emerging trend in green purchases made online. “Customers are buying less frou-frou items and more well-made, classic clothing,” Savidge explains. “Affordable, basic sweaters are popular because people want things for their pets that will last.”

Owners generally need to know their animal’s neck and chest measurements. Available rain gear includes waterproof ponchos and booties. Sweaters and hoodies provide warmth for small dogs that have a hard

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time maintaining their normal body temperature in cold weather.

Haute Hound, founded by Kimberly Hall, offers a variety of pet items. She annually attends the H.H. Backer Associates, Inc. spring pet trade show in Baltimore, which draws 8,500 retail buyers from around the world to view two floors of pet products. “Every time I go, I see more eco-friendly items,” reports Hall. “Options have now expanded to supplements, Earth-friendly shampoos and organic treats.”

She notes that the organic clothing market still has plenty of room to grow. “I have a hairless cat and a greyhound at home,” says Hall, “and neither has much body fat, so they both appreciate wearing a warm sweater in winter.”

For pet lovers on a tight budget with a knack for sewing, free, resizable pet apparel sewing patterns are available.

For more information about Olive Green Dog, call 512-3236484 or visit OliveGreenDog.com. Find The Haute Hound at HauteHound.com. For pet sewing patterns, see Sewing.CircleOfCrafters.com/freepetvestpattern.html. Visit Whole Earth Pet Supply in The Villages for local holistic pet supplies.

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www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

25

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Total Recall

The Recent Plague of Tainted Toys

R

epeated recalls of children’s toys and accessories from shelves and toy boxes has families wondering what’s next. Which manufacturers can we trust? Now help is here in databases sponsored by the BabyCenter and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

“Not only are the 3 billion toys sold in America each year cheaply made and environmentally insensitive, they also, as recent recalls of Chinese toys demonstrate, can pose a real threat to our little ones,” writes journalist Lou Bendrick.

Grist.org reports that one recall alone accounted for a half million children’s toys and accessories that exceeded allowable lead levels. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that more can be expected. In addition to lead paint woes, other causes for recalls include detachable magnets and buttons small enough for tykes to swallow.

For updates on recalls, check CPSC.gov/cpscpub/prerel/category/toy.html and BabyCenter.com/product-recallfinder.

“Clean” Jewelry

D

id you know 20 tons of waste rock can be generated in producing one gold ring?

Trying to keep a step ahead of consumers’ growing social and environmental consciousness, the jewelry industry is making some changes. Some specialty outfits are marketing so-called ethical jewelry, or creating baubles out of recycled gold. Sixty mainstream jewelry companies have signed on to the “No Dirty Gold” campaign, which has minimal requirements but aims to eventually clean up the gold-mining industry. Tiffany & Co. buys much of its gold from a cyanide-free mine; other companies are buying direct from suppliers, allowing them to keep a closer eye on the supply chain. This practice was pioneered by the nation’s biggest gold retailer: Wal-Mart.

Visit www.nodirtygold.org.

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christmasbriefs Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count

B

irders, bird-lovers and fledgling enthusiasts are invited to break out the bird-watching gear and join 50,000 volunteers in North and South America in Audubon Society’s 110th annual Christmas Bird Count. Small field parties will spread out to monitor migrating bird populations. Each is assigned to one of 22 days between December 14 and January 5. Incoming data from volunteers alerts scientists to potentially endangered species, and signals looming threats like loss of habitat and groundwater contamination. Sign up at Audubon.org/bird/cbc.

C

hristmas—that magic blanket that wraps itself about us, that something so intangible that it is like a fragrance. It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be a day of remembrance—a day in which we think of everything we have ever loved.

—Augusta E. Rundel

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December 2009

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The Benefits of EcoMinded Giving

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ach week between Thanksgiving and Christmas, Americans collectively toss out an extra 2 billion pounds of garbage, reports Robert Lilienfeld, coauthor of Use Less Stuff: Environmental Solutions for Who We Really Are. That’s 25 percent more trash than during the rest of the year according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “So making more with less during the holiday has enormous impact,” says Lilienfeld.

To cut the volume of things headed to a landfill, The Green Guide suggests that we consider giving homemade edible gifts in reusable containers, gift certificates for wellness services, gift cards for movies, tickets to concert and theatre performances, or dinner at a favorite organic restaurant. Or make a donation to a favorite cause in the receiver’s name. Instead of writing cards, use email to send holiday wishes, or make a phone call to spread holiday cheer.

When wrapping gifts this season it helps to keep eco-principles in mind. Thoughtful items can look pretty in recycled or reused wrapping paper; reused gift bags; funny papers; or any unused clothes, scarves or pillowcases lying about. Creative gift-givers can even make a cloth wrap a part of the present using an organic-cotton dishcloth or bread basket napkin, echoing the Japanese custom of furoshiki.

If new packaging is really the only option, look for 100 percent post-consumer waste content. And choose processed chlorine-free (PCF) paper products in which no additional chlorine or chlorine derivatives were used to bleach the final recycled-fiber product. Or try a tree-free variety of paper made from hemp, flax or organic cotton fiber.

Since lighting up the holiday gifting tableau with candles is a likely part of the fun, it’s good to know that petroleum-free options are readily available. Favorites include soy pillars and beeswax tapers.

For shopping suggestions visit TheGreenGuide.com and Natural Awakenings advertisers.

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globalbriefs Cutting Plastic Bag Use

W

al-Mart is extending its waste-reducing initiative to cash registers, with a goal of eliminating one in three plastic bags in the next five years. That should cut 135 million pounds of plastic waste and associated petroleum use in their manufacture. The Environmental Defense Fund will consult with the retail giant. The goal is to make reusable tote bags the norm. How you can help: carry a few in the car (and remember to use them).

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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Spinning Waste into Liquid Plant Food

O

rganic Recovery of Pompano Beach, Florida, is converting food wastes into a liquid plant food for farmland, crops and golf courses. The company expects to divert about 17,000 tons of food scraps a year from local landfills. Launched in 2008 by 41-year-old cofounder and CEO, Jeffrey Young, Organic Recovery began by collecting about 166 tons of food scraps weekly from 56 Publix supermarkets in Broward County. By mid-2009, the firm expects to work with all the Publix stores in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties.

A Publix spokesperson said that participating stores expected to boost their recycling rate to 80 percent in 20082009, up from 47 percent in 2007. Even leftover grease is recycled into biodiesel to fuel Organic Recovery’s trucks.

Customers buying Organic Recovery’s plant food pay less than for chemical fertilizers, and it doesn’t produce greenhouse gases.

Downloadable application available online 386-364-6450 / www.MagnoliaFarms.org Email: mcelwee87@windstream.net

Primary Sources: South Florida Sun-Sentinel and OR-dev. com/technology.html

“Ganga” Diane Hanson Reiki, Pranic Healing, Hypnosis, Spiritual Counseling Rev. B.S.W., C.Ht. Amrit Yoga Institute PO Box 5340 Salt Springs, FL 32134 352-685-3001 904-382-5823 gangafl@hotmail.com www.dianekhanson.net

Nixing Bottled Water

F

or the first time this century, U.S. bottled water guzzling is slowing as people wake to the concept that “being charged for water is like being charged for gravity,” as one tap water promoter puts it. “Instead of being a badge for health and status, bottled water has now become a badge for environmental wastefulness.”

In addition, the plastics that make up bottles and other containers are known to cause significant health problems for consumers.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Conference of Mayors passed a resolution to phase out city spending on bottled water. The resolution, though not binding, received strong support from more than 60 mayors across the country.

“The fact is,” says San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, “Our tap water is more highly regulated than what’s in the bottle.” Millions of barrels of oil go into plastic bottle manufacturing, and cities have been spending some $70 million annually on bottle disposal.

In addition, many bottled water brands come from the same source as public tap water, sold back to citizens at thousands of times the cost.

For more information visit ThinkOutsideTheBottle.org.

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calendarofevents Wednesday, December 2

Taking Science of Mind Out Into the World w/Cindy Grimes, 7:15 pm.

OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Saturday, December 5

Astrological Tarot w/Mary Alice Warren, 1-6 pm. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Metaphysical Fair, 10-6 pm. Mystic Glenn, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala.

December 5, 12, 19

3 consecutive Saturdays, 3 different Self-Esteem Mini Workshops w/Martha Beck Certified Life Coach, Barbara Barnett, 10-12:30 pm, $25 each, cash or check at door. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34 St, Gainesville, pre-reg req’d, limited to 8. www.selfesteem-2-the-core.com.

Sunday, December 6

Hackers Guide to Samadhi w/Chandrakant John Hiester, 2-4:30 pm, donation. Andrew Jackson Davis Bldg, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. chandrakant@ amrityoga.org, 386-228-2880, 386-2283171.

Sensual Goddess Dance Class w/ Donna Davis, 1-2:30 pm., Love Offering, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Wednesday, December 9

Beyond Grief Support Group, 1:30 pm, Study group using the book The Power Of Decision, 7:15 pm. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Yoga and AromaTherapy Workshop, “Tranquility,” 7- 9 pm, Ocala, www. essentialoilbliss.com. Call Val to register 877-762-4535.

Friday December 11

Couples Beach Getaway & Workshop, 7:30pm - Sun 1:45pm. Transform your relationship into a love affair.

Deepen intimacy and passion. Discover www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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calendarofevents Tantra. $595/couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. www.IntimacyRetreats.com. Other dates, locations, brochure. 1-877-282-4244.

Saturday, December 12 Farmstead Saturday Workshop: Making Natural Gifts, 10 and 1:30, free. Crones Cradle Conserve Organic Farm, 6411 N.E. 217th Pl., Citra, FL, 352-595-3377, www.CronesCradleConserve.com.

Mediumship Development Class, 2-4:30 pm, class includes meditation, lesson, hands-on practice to develop your personal skills, $25. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39 Ave. Sponsored by International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. www.ifsk.org, 407-673-9776.

One Heart Balancing & Tarot Readings w/ Nena Elantra Roberts, 1-6 pm. Chord Cutting Ceremony w/ Shenna Raven Moondance, 5 pm. High Springs Emporium 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs, 386-454-8657.

Reiki I w/Vickie Haren, CCLC, 9-5 pm, $85. All About Art/ Artful Living Center, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd. (Hwy 441), Belleview, pre-reg required. 352-502-3898.

Tuesday-Saturday 12-8 p.m. www.soulessentialsofocala.com

Mind, Body & Spirit Crystals & Gemstones Celtic Jewelry Salt Lamps Books & CDs Candles, Incense & Oils Herbs & Sage Statuary & Altar Items Tapestries Dragons & Fairies Leanin’ Tree Greeting Cards

Mystic Glenn

3315 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala In Chelsea Square (352) 401-1862 www.mystic-realms.com

Metaphysical Fair Saturday, December 5, 2009 32

Sunday, December 13 From Recovery to Self Discovery w/Joe Ferrara (Prakash), 9-4 pm, $15 donation includes light breakfast and lunch, Sat overnight + Sun am yoga, add $25. Amrit Yoga Institute, 23859 NE County Rd 314, Salt Springs. www.amrityoga.org, for info@amrityoga.org, 352-685-3001.

Thursday, December 17 Stress Reduction/Integrative Relaxation w/John Ernest Hiester(Chandrakant), 7-8:30, Free. Downtown Public Library, 401 E. University Ave, Gainesville. Dress warmly, bring light blanket, jehiester@amrityoga.org.

Saturday, December 19 Satsang, An Evening Of Celebration And Inspiration w/ Gurudev Yogi Amrit Desai and the staff, 6:30-8:30 pm, Free and open to the community. Amrit Yoga Institute, 23859 NE County Rd 314, Salt Springs, FL, www.amrityoga.org, info@ amrityoga.org, 352-685-3001.

Ushering in the Light: the New Lemurians Workshop w/ Sharron Britton, 1-4 pm, $20. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Sunday, December 20 Christmas Service, 10 am. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Peace on Earth Celebration, Free gifts, readings, energy work, 12-5 pm. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386 454-8657

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calendarofevents Thursday, December 24

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 7 pm. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala.

352-687-2113.

Saturday, December 26

Fairy Card Reading w/Lady Tara, 1-6 pm. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs, 386-454-8657.

Thursday, December 31

World Healing Meditation, 7 am. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-6872113.

Friday, January 1

New Years Couples Getaway & Workshop, 7:30 pm - Sun 1:45 pm. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $595/couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. www.IntimacyRetreats.com. Other dates, locations, brochure. 1-877-282-4244.

Sunday, January 10

Organic Food & Film Festival, 6-10 pm, Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL. Sponsored by Natural Awakenings Magazine. $5/person in advance, $7 at the door. Scrumptious organic food samples, holistic practitioners, the movie “Food Matters” at 7 pm; suitable for all ages. To reserve tickets, visit www.

GoNaturalAwakenings.com or call 352-629-4000.

Ongoing Events Sunday

Celebrating Community and Inspiring Message – Science of Mind and Spirit, Meditation 9:45 am, Celebration /Message 10:30 am, Youth and Children’s Celebration 10:30 am, Love Offering, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala, www.olec.org.

Guided Meditation and Spiritual Lesson, 10 am, Love Offering. Nursery & Child Care available during the service. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Monday

Amrit Yoga w/Priti and Prakash, 7-8:30 pm, donation, The Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs, www.amrityoga.org, 352-685-3001.

Learn British Style Mediumship New Ongoing Development Class December 12 2:00-4:30 p.m. ~ Cost $25 Held at Unity of Gainesville 8801 N.W. 39th Avenue Coming in March: British medium Jan Marshall

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday

Hatha Yoga Classes w/Marilyn, Chair Class & Regular Yoga, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. Call for times and prices 352-369-0055.

Fourth Monday & First Tuesday

Free Health Lecture w/Dr Badanek, 4th Mon 6-7:45 pm, 1st Tue 5-7:45 pm. Room ‘C’ Marion County Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala.

Tuesday

A Course in Miracles, Noon–1:30 pm, also 6–7:30 pm, Love Offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Amrit Approach to A Course in Miracles w/Charlotte Spicer, www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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calendarofevents 6-7:30 pm, Amrit Yoga Nidra w/Charlotte Spicer, 7:45-8:30 pm, donation. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs, http://www.amrityoga.org, 352-685-3001, charlotte@amrityoga.org.

Tuesday and Thursday

Yoga Class, 6:30-6:30 pm, $9/class (discount for wholemonth payment). Soul Essentials, 606 SE 3rd Ave, Ocala, 352236-7000.

First & Third Wednesday

Easy Speaker’s Toastmaster Club Meeting, 6-7:30 pm, Free for guests. Positive people improving communication and leadership skills! Cal’s Restaurant, CR-25, Belleview. Call Kim 352-804-9006 or go to www.easyspeakerstmc.freetoasthost.info.

Wednesday

Healing with Essential Oils Classes, 6:30 pm. www.essentialoilbliss.com for Ocala location & schedule. Call Val to register 877-762-4535.

Meditation and Visioning, 6 pm, followed at 7:15 pm w/ speaker, book study, drumming, or film. Love Offering, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352629-3897.

Silent Unity Meditation Service, Meditation Session, Noon -12:30 pm, Free. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-6872113.

Thursday

Amrit Yoga w/Joe Ferrara. 5:30-7 pm, $10/class. Ocala Inner Center, 205 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala. 352-685-3006 or prakash@amrityoga.org.

Amrit Yoga w/Veda, 5:30-6:30, free, Downtown Public Library, 401 E University Ave, Gainesville, vedalewis@aol.com, 352-692-3922.

Self-Realization Fellowship Silent Meditation, 7:15 pm, Silent group meditation based on SRF practices of Paramahansa Yogananda, Love Offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

YOGA, 6-7:30 pm w/Maryann Holden, instructor, $8 p/p.

Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

First Friday

Ocala IONS Community Group for the Institute of Noetic Sciences, 6:30-8:30 pm, donation. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-732-8527.

Friday

Guided Meditation Group, 8 p.m., led by Prakash. Soul Essentials, 606 SE 3rd Ave, Ocala, 352-236-7000.

Saturday Farmstead Saturdays. Free, 9 am-4 pm. Crones Cradle, 6411 NE 217 Pl, Citra. 352-595-3377, www.cronescradleconserve.com.

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communityresourceguide ... Connecting readers to leaders in holistic health care and green living services in our community.

To be included here, visit www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com, call 352-629-4000, or email Ads@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

colonics

holistic medicine

life coaches

Gentle Waters Healing Center 352-374-0600, Gainesville info@gentlewatershealing.com The therapists at Gentle Waters Healing Center will assist each individual with detoxing using colon hydrotherapy, Far Infrared Sauna, and/or Aqua Chi Lymphatic Drainage. We also carry probiotics, digestive enzymes, and other products for overall health. Proud sponsors of Barley Life Nutritional Products. Call Dawn Brower for more information or visit www.gentlewatershealing.com. MA41024, MM15426.

Michael J. Badanek BS, DC, CNS, DACBN Chiropractic Physician, Board Certified in Clinical Nutrition 3391 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite #B Ocala, Florida 34470 / 352-622-1151 www.alternativewholistichealth.com www.ocalaalternativemedicine.com Proudly serving Marion County for 28+ years with alternative holistic complementary health services. “Helping patients achieve optimal health using Alternative Complementary Medicine with State of the Art Technology.” Treating the body to support all health challenges with Holistic Integrative Medicine. Treatment modalities include, but not limited to: Chiropractic, acupuncture, applied kinesiology, EAV testing, nutrition, physiotherapy, massage therapy, functional medicine diagnostic testing, laboratory testing, heavy metal testing/ treatment, detoxification. Available to lecture to groups/meetings. Same day emergency appointments; courtesy consultations available.

Cynthia Christianson, M.A., CCC Inner Relationship Coaching Body Felt-Sense Therapy / 352-374-7982 www.AvantiCoaching.com www.KeepMovingForwardBlog.com The process of self-improvement starts with a healthy inner relationship. If you feel stuck; want a way to handle overwhelming emotions; release blocks or addictions; release self-criticism; increase self-love and acceptance; make clear and centered decisions, then let the wisdom of your body teach you what it feels like to be happy.

Aaron Perry, AP, LMT Life Family Practice Center 1501 U.S. Hwy. 441 North The Villages / 352-750-4333 Focusing on your health and well being, I integrate acupuncture, massage, homeopathy, colonics and NAET (allergy elimination) to enhance your quality of life.

Medicare, Insurance accepted.

craniosacral therapy Rose Dotson R.N., B.H.A Energy Healing, Reiki Master Teacher 6528 C.R. 248, O’Brien, FL 32071 386-935-2972, rdotson@isgroup.net Experience gentle hands-on healing. Effective for chronic neck and back pain, scoliosis, migraine headaches, TMJ, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, and Central Nervous System disorders.

heal your life Deb Klugger Certified Heal Your Life workshop facilitator 3251 SE 31st St., Ocala, FL / 352-266-9163 www.healyourlifemendyourheart.com Study Course / Workshops.

Based on the philosophies of Louise L. Hay. Learn to love yourself. Create the life you want to live. Next 10-week course: January 19, 2010.

Investment: $35 per week.

www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Nelson Kraucak, MD, ABCMT Life Family Practice Center 1501 U.S. Hwy. 441 North The Villages / 352-750-4333 Look into Holistic Integrative Medicine for your health. Chelation is a holistic approach for heavy metal toxicity and is believed to benefit those with heart disease. Neurotherapy, acupuncture, and many other services available.

Hanoch Talmor, M.D. Gainesville Holistic Center 352-377-0015 www.betterw.com We support all health challenges and the unlimited healing potential of God’s miracle: your body.

Chelation, Nutrition, Cleansing, Homeopathy, Natural Energy Healing, Detoxification, Wellness Education and more.

Vickie Haren, CCLC, CCHt 352-502-3898 / www.VickieHaren.com Office and classroom: All About Art/Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd. (Hwy 441), Belleview Vickie is a holistic health educator and co-owner of Endless Journey Retreats. Clinically Certified as a Life Coach and Holistic Health Practitioner with studies in Hypnosis, Reflexology, Reiki (Master/Teacher), Neuro Linguistic Programming, Non-Directive Imagery, EFT, Body Talk, Psych-K and Somatic Healing. “I believe that healing and self-empowerment occurs when the underlying emotional component of an illness or condition is released through education, holistic practices and spiritual counseling.”

classifieds Business Opportunities

Currently Publishing Natural Awakenings Magazines. Asheville, NC; Birmingham/ Huntsville, AL; Denver, CO; Mobile, AL; Morris County, NJ; New York City, NY. Call for details 239-530-1377.

Couples Retreats

Romantic Vacation/Workshops: Florida, Mexico. Create Magic in Your Relationship.

Deepen Intimacy, Discover Tantra. Brochure.

1-877-282-4244, www.IntimacyRetreats.com.

Ads: Per-issue cost is $25/up to 30 words, $1/each additional. Fax ad with credit/ debit card number + exp. code to 352351-5474, or scan/email same to Ads@ GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

December 2009

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communityresourceguide Kim Marques, CHt, Reiki Master Teacher www.ItsAllPerfect.com 352-804-9006 in Ocala Change your vibe, change your life!

Free Info and Spiritual Energy by appointment. Embrace the mind, body and spirit with hypnosis, energy sessions and training, spiritual guidance, Life Wise workshops and support groups, meditation, Goddess Weight Loss, attraction power kits and more.

massage Tiara L. Catey, LMT Center for Balance 1705 N.W. 6th St., Gainesville 352-642-4545 / www.tiaracatey.com Cultivate relaxation, relieve pain and manage stress by including massage as an essential part of your self-care practices.

Relaxation and therapeutic massage ($60/hour), lomilomi ($80/hour), shiatsu ($70/hour), includes aromatherapy. Holistic approach. NY massage education. See www.tiaracatey.com for more details. MA41831.

Support us: support our advertisers.

Clark Dougherty Therapeutic Massage Clinic 850 N.E. 36th Terr., Ocala 352-694-7255 / www.ClarkDougherty.com Offering a variety of therapeutic massage techniques for pain relief, improved flexibility, and other wonderful benefits.

PIP and WorkComp always accepted, also group/private insurance in some instances. All credit cards accepted. Gift certificates are avilable now for Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day. MA27082, MM9718.

Traditional Thai massage Ariela Grodner LMT 900 N.W. 8th Ave., Gainesville arielasthaimassage.com / 352-336-7835 Ariela offers an ancient massage modality known in the west as Thai Massage, sometimes referred to as “lazy man’s yoga.” It is a fusion of yoga and the martial arts in a massage modality. Call to reserve an appointment or to find out about classes held locally.

Flying Horse Healing Arts Valerie Macri, LMT MA54723 Ocala / 877-762-4535 toll-free www.flyinghorsehealingarts.com Rejuvenate body, mind and spirit with a therapeutic massage.

Deep tissue, Energy balancing, Reiki, Aromatherapy. Holistic stress and pain relief for you and your horse.

Neuromuscular Massage By Design 1920 S.W. 20th Pl., Suite 202, Ocala 352-694-4503 Offering neuromuscular massage, craniosacral release therapy, ETPS acupuncture. Most insurance accepted, as well as PIP and WorkerComp. 20% discount for prepurchase of four or more sessions. Referrals from physicians and chiropractors accepted. MA22645.

mtt Sandra Wilson, MTT, MCHt Meridian Tapping Techniques 352-454-8959 www.SandraWilson.org Prime yourself for success!

Remove the blocks keeping you from your goals. Eliminate anger, guilt, grief, and fear quickly and easily. Evenings and Saturdays by appointment.

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communityresourceguide personal fitness

publishing/editing

the work/byron katie

Hip Moves Fitness Studio Rona Bennett, BS, CPT Holistic Health, Personal Fitness Coaching 708 N.W. 23rd Ave., Gainesville www.hipmoves.com / 352-692-0132 An intimate fitness studio focusing on creativity and holistic health.

Classes and private lessons in Belly Dance, Yoga, Pilates, and Personal Training. Rental space available.

Diane Childs Editing, Writing, Consulting, Research 352-375-1120 / Gainesville editordiane@cox.net Impress agents, publishers, customers or employers with professionally written books, articles, marketing materials or resume. Nonfiction or fiction.

Specialties: query letters, book proposals, autobiography, personal growth, health, spirituality, novels.

Celia Chapman Certified Facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie 352-505-5651 / ccthework@netzero.com www.thework.com/cchapman.asp Imagine being HAPPY right now without needing to change a person or thing in your life. Anyone with an open mind can do The Work and end their suffering.

Call or e-mail for appointment (evenings and weekends).

piano services

rolfing

yoga

Hendrix Piano Service 352-895-5412 / Serving north central Florida Tuning, repairs, cleaning, fine maintenance of your acoustic piano.

Playing services including accompaniment, weddings, other church services, concerts. Call today!

Carol L. Short / Certified Advanced Rolfer™, Craniosacral Therapist Gainesville and North Central FL / 352-318-0509 Rolfing® is a system of body restructuring through systematic manipulation of muscle and fascial tissues. It promotes the release and realignment of long standing patterns of tension and dysfunction, bringing the body to greater balance, mobility, vitality, and ease. A holistic approach to mobility, vitality and balance. MA16337/MM18921.

Hot Yoga Big Ron’s Yoga College 519-D NW 10th Ave., Gainesville 352-367-8434 / www.bigronsyoga.com Total physical and mental conditioning. 100 minutes, 100° heated class. All fitness levels welcome. Certified instructors. Unlimited classes only $100 per month. Visit www.bigronsyoga.com for schedule.

MOUNTAIN LIVING 8+ Gorgeous Acres Sunny, fertile bottomland surrounded by mountains, bordered by bold stream in Marshall, N. Carolina.

Private, yet convenient w/easy access on paved roads. 10 minutes to Marshall, 30 to downtown Asheville. Minutes from Pisgah National Forest, Hot Springs, Appalachian Trail.

Property has prime building site with new well, septic, electric. Live in renovated 1998 manufactured home while you build your dream home or rent for income.

Owner financing. $149,500 Call 828-649-3804 www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2009

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presents ...

E

njoy scrumptious organic food samples, expand your healthcare choices by talking with holistic practitioners, and watch the lifechanging and encouraging film “Food Matters.” $5/person in advance, $7 at the door. Reserve tickets at GoNaturalAwakenings.com or call 352-629-4000.

Confirmed exhibitors:

n 4 Arrows Ranch, www.TheGrassFed Gourmet.com n Magnolia Farms CSA, www.MagnoliaFarms.org n The Natural Network n Natural Awakenings Magazine, www.GoNaturalAwakenings.com n Dr. Bill Stankosky, DC, Ocala Chiropractic Clinic n Dr. Gerry Wessner, DVM, Holistic Veterinary Clinic n Clark Dougherty Therapeutic Massage Clinic (MA27082, MM9718), www.ClarkDougherty.com n Patricia Wagner, Quantum Touch and www.GraceUnlimitedOrganics.com We still have room for selected exhibitors including organic farms, local growers’ markets, nutritionists, health food stores, and holistic/integrative physicians.

For information about reserving a display table, email Carolyn@GoNaturalAwakenings.com or call 352-629-4000.

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