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Back to Nature Seeking Its Wisdom for a High-Tech World

EARTH in Peril

Children Confront Climate Change

Earth Day 2015 Hope for Our Future

April 2015 | Houston-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com natural awakenings

April 2015

1

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contents 5 newsbriefs 10 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.

12 globalbriefs

14 TRANSFORMING DISEASE

17 earthdayevents

PATTERNS INTO HEALING HABITS

by Gladys Wesley-Kennedy

23 healthykids 26 classifieds

17 EARTH DAY 2015

27 calendar

Hope for Our Future

by Julianne Hale

31 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 713-927-6540 or email Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month.

18 NATURE’S WISDOM

Its Lessons Inspire, Heal and Sustain Us

by Christine MacDonald

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month..

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month..

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

23 EARTH IN PERIL Children Confront Climate Change

by Avery Mack

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com natural awakenings

April 2015

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letterfrompublisher

G

reetings!

With each new generation and each new invention we seem to separate ourselves more and more from nature.

It is possible to spend all our time in our climate controlled homes plugged into our electronic devices, sitting in our office cubicles tapping on the keyboard or belted our cars commuting between office and home. We don’t have to be aware of the subtle changes in the weather or the seasons unless a sudden downpour puts part of our commute under water temporarily. We can eat food that we didn’t grow regardless of the season. Witness the commercials that tout opening a bucket of fried chicken from a fast food restaurant or zapping a frozen container in the microwave as “preparing” a meal for the family.

I’m not suggesting that we should all head for the hills to raise all our own food as we imagine our distant ancestors might have done. I’m not suggesting that we totally unplug from our electronic devices or prepare every single meal from scratch as our great grandparents did. I’m certainly not suggesting we endure the Houston summers without air conditioning. These things would be very difficult and probably impossible to actually do. So we shouldn’t guilt ourselves for not doing them.

I am suggesting that we can find small ways to be more a part of nature and the natural world. We can take walks in the many parks and green spaces in the city.

There are National Forests and the gulf seashore within a few hours’ drive of the city. We can spend time just sitting in our back yard or create a mini-green space on our apartment balcony where we can drink our morning coffee. We can spend time gardening. Don’t have a space to do that? Try container gardening or get involved with one of the many urban gardening groups. Don’t have time to get your hands in the dirt? Buy at least some of your food from one of the local farmers markets. You not only will get fresher food but you will help support local people and by buying local reduce the use of fuel to transport food here. Bicycle to work if you can or join one of the many bicycle rides in town. I remember when I was able to do that how much more aware I was of nature and how much less stressed I was at the end of the day. I could list more ways to connect with nature but I think it would be a useful exercise if we all made our own lists.

We in the Hart household practice many of these things at least some of the time.

That is all I’m suggesting. Don’t let what you can’t do prevent you from doing what you can do. Develop an attitude of nature awareness and move in the direction of greater connection to nature. I firmly agree with Richard Louv that most of us suffer to some degree from “nature deficit disorder” and the way to deal with it is to take small steps to reconnect with nature that has been all around us all the time. So get outdoors and enjoy the Houston springtime!

Bright blessings,

Mike & Cindy Hart 4

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

contact us Natural Awakenings 448 West 19th Street #419 Houston, TX 77008 Phone: 713-927-6540 Fax: 713-337-4115 Natural Awakenings Team PUBLISHERS

Cindy and Mike Hart Cindy@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

FREELANCE WRITERS Quincy Fisher • Barbara Silberg Gladys Wesley-Kennedy

MARKETING/SALES Cindy Hart Cindy@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com 713-927-6540 Barbara Silberg

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WEBSITE Mike Hart

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General Information & Submissions

Mike Hart Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com Franchise Sales: Toll Free 888-434-9392

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Sign up to recieve our free digital ezine!

Email us at: Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

newsbriefs

Houston Backyard Pond and Water Garden Tour

Natural AwakeningsHouston Goes Digital

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hile our print edition will continue to be the main stay of our publishing business for a long time to come we rolled out our new digital edition. It may be accessed on our newly updated website NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com or if you would prefer to have it emailed to you at the first of each month send me an email (mike@naturalawakeningshouston.com) with Digital Subscription in the subject line and I’ll put you on the emailing list.

While you are online, be sure to “like” us on FaceBook “Natural Awakenings Houston” and “follow” us on Twitter “NaturalAwakeningsHTX”.

Both social media sites can be identified by the Houston skyline at the top.

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wenty backyard ponds and water gardens will be open to the public Saturday &Sunday, May 2 & 3, 2015, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., for the annual Houston Pond & Water Garden Tour. Ponds run the gamut from small owner-built “puddles” designed to attract wildlife, to interconnected ponds with streams and waterfalls that cover the entire backyard, to high-tech tanks that house imported Japanese koi. The beautifully landscaped yards are as enticing as the ponds.

Pond owners will be on hand to answer questions about pond construction, fountains, filters, fish care, water lilies, koi show competitions, gardening, and more. Pond Tour Weekend is a perfect opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the fascinating water gardening hobby.

The self-guided tour fans across the Houston metro area, with half the ponds open on Saturday and half open on Sunday.

Tickets, good for both days, cost $10, and include a brochure with a description of the ponds and a map with driving directions to each home. Tickets may be purchased at any of the tour homes on the day of the tour, or in advance at www. houstonpondsociety.org or www.lonestarkoi.com, or at Nelson Water Gardens in Katy beginning April 25, 2015.

The 2015 Houston Pond and Water Garden Tour is co-sponsored by the Houston Pond Society and the Lone Star Koi Club. For more information, call Dan Cook, pond tour chairman, at (713)-822-5515 or dcook1830@aol.com

April 2015 at CenterPoint

1920 Hollister St, Houston, TX 77080 For Info on all these Events Call CenterPoint at 713.932.7224

Psychic Intensive with Grendl, 7-9 pm Tuesdays April 7, 14, 21, 28 Topics; Dream Interpretation, Automatic Writing, Aura Readings & more. Info 281 730 3017 The Next Dimension. Is time shrinking George Thomas , April 9, 7-9 pm Info 832 331 5468

Psychic & Health Expo’s Sundays April 5, 12, 19, 26 1 - 5 pm Psychics, Healers, Massage, Ear Candling Foot Reflexology, Nutritionist, Jewelry

Living as an Empath with Psychic Kim Funk Are YOU an Empath. Learn how to Control, Strengthen Overloads Thursday, April 16, 7 pm Info 281 733 3009

Contact Passed over Loved Ones & Pets with known Medium John Cappello Saturday, April 18, 7-9 pm (info 713 932 7224)

For Our Complete Schedule Please Visit: www.centerpointhouston.com natural awakenings

Psychic Sunday

Sunday April 12 from 1-5 pm Enjoy Readings from Houston’s Best Psychics/Readers, $20 Palmist, Tarot, Nutritionist, Pet psychic, Massage, Tarot, Reflexology, Healers, $20 at

CenterPoint 713.932.7224

FREE Healing Expo Sunday, April 26 1 - 5 pm

COME TREAT YOURSELF Experience FREE Healing.

Foot Reflexology, Tarot, Massage Nutritionist, Jewelry, Reiki (Psychics available for Readings)

April 2015

5

Publish a Natural Awakenings Magazine in Your Community Share Your Vision and Make a Difference • Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings recently won Call 239-530-1377 the prestigious FBR50 Franchise visit our website : Satisfaction Award from Franchise NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine Business Review. To learn more visit: franchisebusinessreview.com for more information

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 95 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Huntsville, AL Mobile/Baldwin, AL* Little Rock/Hot Spg., AR* Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Denver/Boulder, CO Fairfield County, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/St. Aug., FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & Florida Keys* Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL* Orlando, FL* Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL FL’s Treasure Coast Atlanta, GA Hawaiian Islands Chicago, IL Chicago Western Suburbs Indianapolis, IN Baton Rouge, LA Lafayette, LA New Orleans, LA Portland, ME Boston, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Wayne County, MI Western MI Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN Charlotte, NC Lake Norman, NC Triangle NC Central NJ Hudson County, NJ* Mercer County, NJ

Houston

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Monmouth/Ocean, NJ North NJ* North Central NJ South NJ* Santa Fe/Abq., NM Las Vegas, NV Albany, NY Buffalo, NY Central NY Long Island, NY Manhattan, NY Queens, NY Rochester, NY Rockland/Orange, NY Westchester/Putnam, NY Central OH Cincinnati, OH Toledo, OH Oklahoma City, OK Portland, OR* Bucks/Montgomery, PA* Harrisburg/York, PA Lancaster, PA Lehigh Valley, PA Pocono, PA/Warren Co., NJ Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA Rhode Island Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Grand Strand, SC* Greenville, SC Chattanooga, TN Knoxville, TN Memphis, TN Austin, TX Dallas Metroplex, TX Dallas/FW Metro N SE Texas Houston, TX San Antonio, TX* Richmond, VA VA’s Blue Ridge Seattle, WA Madison, WI Milwaukee, WI Puerto Rico

*Existing magazines for sale

Universal Door Meditation Center turns 12!

U

niversal Door Meditation Center, founded by Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, just celebrated its 12th birthday. This hidden gem, right on the border of Sugar Land and Houston has been developing in strides since it opened in 2003. Open to people of all ages, cultures, religions, and backgrounds, it is a dynamic and active place with several weekly classes, monthly retreats, workshops, and more. All activities help students to discover the Awake mind within, which transforms the stress, struggles and conflicts of everyday life in order to live truly happy and free. The Center has come a long way in a short 12 years and continues to be a spiritual home to a growing international community of students, all dedicated to the work of realizing the Awake within for their own well being and sharing the benefits with those around them.

The 12th year celebration revolved around students sharing how their lives have changed in such positive and amazing ways while walking the path of Awake, and because of this they wish to share this message with others so more people can start their journey toward living truly happy, anytime, anywhere, always.

It was inspiring to witness students with such a variety of backgrounds come together in one place and celebrate how the common goal of Waking Up is touching lives everywhere.

The key to success has been how the Zen Master works closely with students to help them discover a true hidden treasure within themselves. This treasure is not for some select few, but is already within everyone.

Wake Up to live truly happy, fresh, open, alive, with clarity and purpose… We look forward to meeting you soon!

See class listings in the events calendar. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498.

281-565-9718. www.universaldoor.org

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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5 Day Intuitive Painting Workshop- Creating Your Connection to Limitless Creativity Begins Wednesday, April 15-19, 2015

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xpand your consciousness through creating. You will learn and experience how to receive, remove limiting blocks and connect to your creative expression.

You will learn the fundamental principles of creativity. With a deeper understanding of the nature of creativity, you begin to trust and learn from your own process.

Explore in a critique-free studio. Allow spontaneous expression to flow from you, igniting your intuition with a desire to play. As you to dip into the 22+ delicious colors you will be surprised how layers of mental restrictions that contribute to your day-to-day life melt away. This new experience of Freedom is your partner—both in your painting and as you navigate through every aspect of your life.

No experience required and no critiques are permitted, never-ever. All materials are provided.

Houston Heights Studio (77008) When: Wednesday, April 15-19, 2015 Time: Wednesday, 10-6pm Thursday, 10am-6pm Friday, 10am-6pm Saturday, 10am-6pm Sunday, 10am-2pm Facilitator: Cherie Ray, MLA To register: TrueYouCreativity.com.

See ad on page 14.

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April 2015

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Natural Awakenings Earns Top Franchise Business Award

N NATURE’S RITE

Affordable Health Care from Mother Nature

U

nlike their Eastern counterparts, North American and some European herbalists seek to directly mitigate health issues or facilitate specific bodily functions using particular plants, roots and barks. Native Americans embraced the belief that Mother Nature provides, contending that the herbs of a local environment provide for all of the needs of the people dwelling there. For example, snake weed is prevalent in the Southwest, where encounters with rattlesnakes are frequent. Herbs such as comfrey, arnica and sage, which are found from coast to coast, are used to heal wounds, relieve pain and get rid of parasites, maladies common to people everywhere, according to the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine.

Every culture in the world has developed and maintained a system of healing based on their indigenous plants, relying on these natural pharmaceutical entities for thousands of years. A human that lived 5,000 years ago found preserved in ice in 1991 was carrying herbs and mushrooms to mitigate health conditions that scientists confirmed were present in his body.

Despite their effective use for millennia, many modern-day people still question the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs. Instead of looking to pharmaceutical companies—born of an industry with less than 200 years of experience—to handle our healthcare needs, perhaps the real affordable care act can be found in the plants, roots and barks provided by Mother Nature.

atural Awakenings has been named one of 200 companies in the Franchise Business Review’s 2015 Top Franchises Report. The healthy living magazine was one of five franchise companies cited as best-inclass in the advertising and sales category.

To select the top franchises across industries and performance categories, the organization surveyed more than 28,500 franchisees.

“We feel privileged that it was our franchisees’ expression of high satisfaction that earned us this award,” says Sharon Bruckman, CEO of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.

“Gaining this recognition proves that our process of providing franchisees with editorial, promotional and operational support, partnered with their enthusiastic dedication in individual markets, serves communities well. Together, we are nourishing and growing a healthy living consciousness in America.” The network now encompasses nearly 100 franchisees nationwide and in Puerto Rico.

Franchise Business Review, headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a national franchise market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction and franchise buyer experiences. 2015 marked its 10th annual Top Franchises Report.

For more information, call Anna Romano at 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com and FranchiseBusinessReview.com. See ad, page 6.

For more information, call 888-4654404 or visit NaturesRiteRemedies.com.

See ad, page 16.

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Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Meditative Fitness™ Settles into its new home

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he WHAI & Meditative Fitness Programs ™ have been providing holistic health and educational services throughout the Houston area for more than thirteen years. Classes are now held at Nurture Soul Therapeutics, 9834 Spring Cypress Rd, Houston, TX 77070. Meditative Fitness™ is a health and fitness association, comprised of individuals devoted to holistic health education and practices. In particular, members learn the ancient practices and philosophies of Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Zen Meditation. This unique tenweek program is taught by Qigong Master Healer, Gladys Wesley-Kennedy.

During each two-hour class, Master Gladys provides students with a wealth of ancient energy healing wisdom and practical tools that have been used to help hundreds of people liberate themselves from the ravages of pain, sickness, and disease.

To experience a sample Intro to MedFit™ class, or register for the upcoming semester (registration is required), call

The WHAI™ at 832-755-0270 or email tameka@meditative-fitness.com.Class size is limited to 30 members.

Class times and dates:

Intro to MedFit™

Mindful Meditation™

Calm Qigong™

Monday 7-9 pm Tuesday 7-9 pm Wednesday 7-9 pm

Nurture Soul Therapeutics, 9834 Spring Cypress Rd, Houston, TX 77070. 832-7550270. TheWHAI.com

natural awakenings

April 2015

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,

Olive Oil Boosts Healthy Cholesterol

healthbriefs

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ACUPUNCTURE INCREASES QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALLERGY SUFFERERS

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esearch from Berlin’s Charité University Medical Center suggests that acupuncture is an effective treatment for patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, in 2013, the study analyzed data on the costs and quality of life of 364 allergy patients that had been randomly assigned to receive one of three treatments: rescue medication alone (taken when symptoms are greatest); acupuncture treatment plus rescue medication; or sham (nontherapeutic) acupuncture plus rescue medication. Patients receiving acupuncture incurred higher total treatment costs, but also gained significantly more quality of life compared with the rescue medication-only groups.

n an effort to understand what makes olive oil so good for heart health, a study from Europe’s Cardiovascular Risk and Nutrition Research Group and the U.S. National Institutes of Health has found that olive oil’s polyphenols significantly increase the size of high-density lipoproteincholesterol (HDL) in the blood and enhance the HDL’s ability to inhibit formation of the abnormal fatty deposits, known as plaque, within the walls of arteries. Polyphenols are natural compounds from plants known to help prevent cancer and heart disease.

In the three-week study, researchers isolated the effect of polyphenols by dividing 47 healthy European men into two groups: one ate a diet containing polyphenol-poor olive oil and the other consumed polyphenol-rich olive oil. The enriched diet resulted in increased size, fluidity and stability (resistance to oxidation) of the HDL molecules by reducing their triglyceride core. The researchers note that the oxidation of cholesterol lipids such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is linked with arteriosclerosis.

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Strawberries Reduce Blood Pressure

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Memory Works Better Reading Real Books

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esearchers from Norway’s Stavanger University and France’s Aix-Marseille Université found that readers remember a story better if it’s on paper. The study tested 50 people that read the same 28-page short story. Half of the group read the paper version and the other half read the story on a Kindle e-reader. The researchers discovered that readers of the digital version could not remember details from the story or reconstruct the plot as well as the group that read the paper copy.

The researchers found that the feedback of a Kindle doesn’t provide the same support for mental reconstruction of a story as a print pocket book does. “When you read on paper, you can sense with your fingers a pile of pages on the left growing, and shrinking on the right,” explains Stavanger University’s Anne Mangen, Ph.D.

These findings confirm a study performed a year earlier, also led by Mangen. Seventy-two 10th-graders were given text to read either on paper or on a computer screen. The students that read the paper text versions scored significantly higher in reading comprehension testing than those reading digital versions.

study published in the World Journal of Diabetes concluded that the regular consumption of a flavonoid-rich strawberry beverage reduces blood pressure in people with Type 2 diabetes. The study divided 36 subjects, all with moderately high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, into two groups—the first drank the equivalent of one serving of fresh strawberries per day made from freeze-dried berries, and the other group drank the same amount of an imitation strawberry-flavored drink over a six-week period. Blood pressure was tested at the beginning and end of the study for all participants.

At the end, the group drinking the real strawberry beverage registered significantly lower diastolic blood pressure than at the outset; it was also lower than the imitation strawberry group. The average diastolic blood pressure of the group drinking real strawberries went down by 6.5 percent and the systolic dropped by 12 percent. The strawberry-flavored group’s systolic blood pressure was also reduced, but only by 3.7 percent.

THE COLOR GREEN MAKES EXERCISE FEEL EASIER

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esearch from the University of Essex, in England, suggests that viewing natural green images while exercising may be better than being exposed to other colors.

The researchers tested 14 people doing moderate-intensity cycling while watching video footage of predominantly gray, red or green imagery. Each of the participants underwent three cycling tests—one with each of the videos—along with a battery of physiological and mood testing.

The researchers found that when the subjects watched the green-colored video, they had better moods, with a lower relative perception of exertion than when they exercised while watching the red and grey videos. They also found those that exercised while watching the red video experienced greater feelings of anger during their exercise.

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globalbriefs

Vanishing Wildlife

Soil Salvation

The latest World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Living Planet Report shows that the Living Planet Index (LPI), which measures more than 10,000 representative populations of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, has declined by 52 percent since 1970. The report is widely considered the leading sciencebased analysis on the health of our planet and the impact of human activity (Tinyurl.com/ WWF-Living-Planet-Report).

In fewer than two human generations, populations of vertebrate species—the life forms that constitute the fabric of life-sustaining ecosystems and serve as a barometer of how humans are impacting nature—have dropped by half. Nature conservation and sustainable development go hand-in-hand; it’s not only about preserving biodiversity and wild places, but about safeguarding the future of humanity.

Living Planet Report partners include the Zoological Society of London, Global Footprint Network and Water Footprint Network. Marco Lambertini, director general of WWF International, states, “We need leadership for change. Sitting on the bench waiting for someone else to make the first move, doesn’t work. Heads of state need to start thinking globally; businesses and consumers need to stop behaving as if we live in a limitless world.”

50 Percent Gone in Under 50 years

Organic Farming May Counteract Greenhouse Effect The nonprofit Rodale Institute, the United Nations and the Soil Association are reporting t h a t m o d e r n , ch e m i c a l intensive industrial farming is stripping the soil’s natural ability to take carbon back out of the atmosphere through photosynthesis and store it in the soil. Rodale researchers say that by returning to small-scale organic farming, more than 40 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions could be captured in the soil, and if the entire world’s pasture and rangelands were managed using regenerative techniques, an additional 71 percent of those emissions could be sequestered.

Further, organic practices could counteract the world’s yearly carbon dioxide output while producing the same amount of food as conventional farming. Rodale claims that using regenerative organic agriculture—like low or no-tillage, cover crops and crop rotation—will keep photosynthesized carbon dioxide in the soil, instead of returning it to the atmosphere. The institute cites 75 studies from peer-reviewed journals, including its own 33-year Farming Systems Trial, which directly compare organic farming with conventional farming.

Source: OrganicConsumers.org

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Every flower is a soul blossoming in nature. ~Gerard de Nerval

‘Flying Doctor’ Bees Prevent Cherry Disease University of Adelaide researchers are introducing a “flying doctor” method of employing bees as preventive medicine.

Project leader and bee researcher Katja Hogendoorn, Ph.D., says, “All commercial cherry growers spray during flowering to control the later development of cherry brown rot. Instead of spraying fungicide, we’re using bees to deliver a biological control agent right to the flowers, where it’s needed.” The innovative delivery works via entomovectoring.

This is a new technique for Australia, with potential application in many horticultural industries. The biological control agent contains spores of a parasitic fungus that prevents another fungus that causes the brown rot from colonizing the flower. Future applications of the small, winged medics are expected to become available for disease control in almonds, grapes, strawberries, raspberries, apples, pears and stone fruit.

Source: Adelaide.edu.au

Thriving Eco-Towns Malaysian Villages Model Sustainability

Innovations being successfully pioneered in Malaysia offer ideas for improving the world, according to the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), including the construction of high-tech, self-sustaining ecological “smart” villages.

These villages are lifting incomes for scores of rural families while promoting environmental sustainability. Each 50-acre community consists of about 100 affordable homes, advanced educational, training and recreational facilities and an integrated, sustainable farm system that provides villagers with food and employment that on average, triples their monthly income.

Low-cost, 1,000-square-foot homes are built in 10 days and the communal farming operations include a cascading series of fish tanks, or “aquafarms”.

Filtered fish tank wastewater irrigates trees, grain fields and high-value plants grown in “autopots”, a three-piece container with a valve that detects soil moisture levels and releases water as required, reducing the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Free-range chickens feed on the fast-reproducing worms that process the plant compost.

This system optimizes nutrient absorption, minimizes waste and enables crops to be grown on previously non-arable land. The village’s solar-generated power is complemented by biomass energy and mini-hydro electricity. A community hall, resource center, places of worship, playgrounds and educational facilities equipped with 4G Internet service support e-learning and e-health services.

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13

Transforming Disease Patterns Into Healing Habits

by Gladys Wesley-Kennedy

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ould you believe that to live is to heal?

Would you believe that because you are alive, born into a physical body, and bound to earthly physical laws that you are born…unwell? Regardless of what you may or may not believe, in this regard, I invite you to ponder the old saying, “The road of the many is often the wrong way.”

I ask these questions because, many of us believe that those who have been diagnosed with a definitive physical or psychological imbalance, addiction, or disease, are sick or unwell; yet, those who have not been diagnosed or who do not seem to present any obvious sign of pain or illness are considered healthy or well. In other words, if someone we know has a diagnosis, but we do not, we may think to ourselves, “He or she is sick, but not me.”

Many of us are unconscious to our deeper opinions and beliefs about those whom we deem sick. For example, when we encounter or hear about someone who has been diagnosed as sick, diseased, or dying, we may express concern, empathy, or some form of condolence to or about that person. However, simultaneously, we may also think to ourselves: “Oh that poor person, I feel so bad for them. I’m glad I don’t have that problem.

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I am so blessed.” Well, when we abide by these types of beliefs and attitudes, it means we have— erroneously and unconsciously— misjudged the outward reflection of our own inner un-wellness and dis-eased mindset.

The following is a true personal example. Many years ago, I went to a breast surgeon to have a biopsy taken from a mass in my right breast. Several months earlier, I had discovered the mass, and brought it to my gynecologist’s attention. At the time, she advised me to have it checked—(but, I chose not to because I didn’t believe it was an issue, even though it had been painful for quite some time). After the breast surgeon thoroughly palpated the mass, he asked me, “If you noticed this mass a few months ago; and, you know your grandmother and mother died from cancer; and, your sister currently has metastasized breast carcinoma, why didn’t you have this mass checked sooner? Smugly, I replied, “Because, unlike them, I don’t think I’ve lived a lifestyle that is conducive to developing cancer.” The surgeon sternly looked me in my eyes and sarcastically replied, “Well, Mrs. Kennedy, no breast lump is ever normal—regardless of your lifestyle.”

The point I am trying to make is that many of us do not know what disease really means. Due to this, I often

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

hyphenate the word so that it reads, disease. My intention, in doing so, is to jar reader’s unconscious beliefs about this frequently misused and misunderstood word. Disease means, “A condition in humans, plants, or animals that results in pathological symptoms and is not the direct result of physical injury.” Whereas, if hyphenated, “dis” is a prefix meaning: “to undo” or “to do the opposite;” and, “ease” means, “a lack of difficulty.”

Hence, dis-ease means, “the lack of ease or comfort,” (i.e., internal or external discomfort, unrest, or agony). Therefore, hyphenating disease (dis-ease), changes its meaning and context significantly— bringing into focus the concept of a general lack of wellness and lack of ease or comfort.

The fact is that everyone lives with some persistent form of dis-ease. It is an essential aspect of life—until we know better. Throughout our life, all of us consistently experience various forms of suffering, distress, pain, and loss.

Additionally, all who are born will surely die. Actually, the moment we are born, our bodies are simultaneously dying.

Therefore, how can we label anyone else as ‘sick’, ‘diseased’, or ‘dying’; yet, we fail to recognize the same plight in ourselves?

Why is it that we can readily recognize the plight of others, but repeatedly miss our own persistent dis-eased symptoms?

Take a moment to think about this important question?

Prior to me being diagnosed with breast cancer, I believed I was healthy and well—despite the fact that for years, I had suffered from a history of persistent stress-related aches and pains, such as debilitating migraines, back aches, depression, and irregular periods.

Prior to being diagnosed with cancer, I lived with a false sense of health and wellness. I rationalized to myself that because I was young, a vegetarian, and an avid fitness instructor, I was perfectly healthy. Hence, I ignorantly believed I was immune to developing any type of disease—particularly cancer. I also believed that my relatives developed and died from cancer because of their “unhealthy lifestyle.” I again rationalized that since they were heavy smokers and drinkers, ate meat, never exercised, nor took an interest in their health, it only made sense that they had cancer.

At that time, I failed to realize I held

prejudices and ignorant beliefs about those who I judged as sick or healthy.

Today, however, I clearly recognize that not only did I, but most people make this same mistake. Subconsciously, we judge others as sick or diseased, but fail to recognize our own un-wellness and disease. We delude ourselves by believing that, unlike them, we are healthy and well—despite our many symptoms to the contrary. Specifically, we judge others as “sick,” while we also show symptoms of dis-ease by relying on or indulging in one or more of the following:  Regularly take prescription or over

the counter pain medications  Consume alcoholic beverages three

or more days per week  Rely on sleep aids for insomnia  Daily consume two or more cups of coffee  Have been taking antidepressants for

months or years  D e p e n d o n b l o o d p r e s s u r e medication/s  Rely on diabetes medications  Are thirty or more pounds overweight

or significantly underweight  Have several strained personal or

work relationships  Secretly and excessively engage

in sexual activity or have many

sexual partners  Frequently engage in “road rage”

reactions or confrontations  Suffer from persistent worry or anxiety  Have a history of financial instability

or lack  Habitual busyness, (i.e., overworking

or over-doing certain activities)

As you can see from this list, we do not notice how distracted we are from our daily burdensome presentations of dis-ease and un-wellness. Hence, we live in total denial.

The truth about life and living is this: Everyone and everything born and bound to a physical body, is destined to experience pain, suffering, sickness, and ultimately…death. Life is fair in this regard. Furthermore, the great majority of us will die—not from natural causes— but rather, from an incurable sickness or disease. Why? Because, unbeknownst to us, our daily life is driven by unconscious pathological mind activity, (i.e., dis-ease).

In this specific context, dis-ease refers to a pathological mindset; or, a long-term habitual repetition of negative thought patterns. This means we habitually and unconsciously think about and/or react to situations, people, or memories with negative thoughts or emotions, such as anger, fear, worry, resentment, sorrow, or jealousy. In other words, in mind and body, we create some form of psychoemotional and physical suffering. The most common consequences of such negative thinking are acts of self-abuse, self-medicating behaviors, over/under eating, passive-aggressiveness, physical pain or tension, relationship dramas; and, feelings of despair, lassitude, or depression. Usually, however, even though we are experiencing distress, we fail to recognize the real source of these dis-eased conditions and feelings. The long-term consequence of not addressing the destructive causes in mind, is a matured form of dis-ease, as in cancer or heart disease.

So, all health problems are the formed effects of dis-eased or toxic emotional thought patterns. Negative

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habits in mind are pathological, and produce toxic chemical and physiological reactions in our body. Such toxicity eventually accumulates, resulting in the manifestation of diseases, as in persistent pain, deformation, tumors, cysts, chronic sickness—and ultimately—full-blown disease. Therefore, no manifestation of pain, sickness, or disease “just happens.”

Instead, dis-eased thoughts create a diseased body and life circumstances.

When I have expressed this sobering

and conditions of our health and life circumstances. Therefore, the purpose of life is to identify and repair our faulty mindset.

In summation, the purpose of our life is to liberate ourselves from ignorance, perpetual suffering, and a death that— unnecessarily—results from a lifetime of unconscious habitual dis-eased thinking and behaving. To accomplish liberation, recognize that every living being is created equal. Everything and everyone born will, equally, experience suffering and death. Therefore, all of us are born un-well and dis-eased. However, the goal of life is to heal all forms of disease by replacing our thought patterns with intentional thoughts of gratitude, positivity, and compassion…for ourselves and all others. Now that you know this, endeavor to heal the source of your health and life circumstances—your mindset.

Heal by recognizing and correcting your erroneous beliefs, judgments, and diseased patterns—in mind and behavior— so that, when it is finally time for you to vacate your physical body and world, you can leave, and truly…“rest in peace.”

This is the goal of life. To transform disease patterns into healing habits. To live is to heal.

principle to our students or patients, some have asked me, “If we live only to die from sickness or disease, then what is the purpose of life?” I explain that the purpose of life is to heal. We are born to heal our ‘karma’ or “pathology in mind and life.” For some, this answer is difficult to comprehend or accept. However, the truth is that every aspect of our physical life—without exception—is the formed reflection of our mindset. How and what we think determines the quality

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EARTH DAY 2015

Hope for Our Future

by Julianne Hale

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hen we learn about the condition of our most va l u a b l e r e s o u rc e — t h i s spinning planet we call home—we may feel a sense of urgency, desperation or even defeat. Global climate change is a powerful foe, and current efforts may seem like a losing race against time.

Yet, mounting evidence suggests that the global community is making progress, giving rise to the possibility that climate change may not be the insurmountable obstacle we once thought. The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) article, “We Can Do This: 10 Reasons there’s Hope for our Climate,”

by Dan Upham, summarizes a speech given by EDF President Fred Krupp at the 2014 Aspen Ideas Festival (Tinyurl.com/ HopeForTheClimate). Here are some encouraging highlights.

The price of solar energy panels has dropped by 75 percent in the U.S. since 2008, and affordable wind energy is increasingly available. According to a study published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, carbon dioxide emissions from energy in this country dropped by 10 percent between 2005 and 2012.

In addition, China, the world’s largest producer of greenhouse gases, is actively seeking ways to reduce emissions.

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Proof of progress is also found in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Power Plan to cut billions of tons of pollution, a goal supported by two-thirds of Americans, according to a survey conducted by Harstad Strategic Research. Aligned with this, the government is requiring that manufacturers double automobile fuel mileage by 2025.

Perhaps the best argument for hope reflects the priorities of America’s younger generations. A recent bipartisan poll of young voters conducted by Benenson Strategy Group and GS Strategy Group suggests that 80 percent of voters under the age of 35 support the president taking action to address climate change, making it an issue that both major political parties must take seriously.

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April 2015

17

Nature’s Wisdom Its Lessons Inspire, Heal and Sustain Us

by Christine MacDonald

The environment is not separate from ourselves; we are inside it and it is inside us; we make it and it makes us. ~ Davi Kopenawa Yanomami, Amazon shaman

W

hile the idea that we humans stand apart from—or even above—nature is a prevailing theme in much of modern civilization, naturalists and other clever souls throughout the ages have observed that the opposite is true: We are part of, depend on and evolve with nature—and we ignore this vital connection at our peril.

“If one way is better than another, that you may be sure is nature’s way,” admonished the Greek philosopher Aristotle, in the third century B.C.E.

“Time destroys the speculation of men, but it confirms the judgment of nature,” Roman politician and philosopher Cicero ruminated two centuries later.

Nobel Prize-winning physicist and philosopher Albert Einstein remarked, “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”

Today, more of us are looking to

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nature for ways to improve physical, mental and emotional health, develop intelligence, innovate, overhaul how we build homes and neighborhoods, and raise our children.

Healthful Nature

As Henry David Thoreau wrote in his classic 1854 book Walden, “We need the tonic of wildness.”

While we know firsthand how walking in the woods can elevate mood, scientists have documented that a regular dose of nature has other farreaching benefits. It can lower stress hormone levels, blood pressure and undesirable cholesterol; help heal neurological problems; hasten fuller recovery from surgery and heart attacks; increase cancer-fighting white blood cells; and generally aid overall health (Health Promotion International research report; also Nippon Medical School www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

study, Tokyo).

Regular playtime outdoors helps children cope with hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders, according to research published in Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care.

Exposure to nature can help adults escape from today’s wired lives; reinvigorate, be fitter and less likely to suffer from obesity, diabetes and heart disease, as reported in studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and a University of Washington research summary. It can also unlock understanding of the spiritual essence of life.

Hours regularly spent by youth outdoors stimulate imagination and creativity and enhance cognitive development, helping them learn. Nature also helps youngsters develop social awareness, helping t h e m b e t t e r n av i g a t e human relations (Tinyurl. com/OutdoorHealthBenefits Research).

“It’s strange and kind of sad that we are so removed from nature that we actually have to ask why nature is good for us,” says Dr. Eva Selhub, a lecturer at Harvard Medical School, author of the new book Your Health Destiny, and co-author of Your Brain on Nature. “The fact is our brains and bodies are wired in concert with nature.”

Recognition of nature’s positive effects has grown so much in recent years that physicians increasingly write their patients “prescriptions” to go hiking in the woods, counting on the healthy exercise and exposure to sunlight, nature and soothing views to address health problems stemming from poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. Healthcare clinics and hospitals in Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, Indianapolis, Albuquerque, New Mexico, California’s Bay Area and elsewhere have launched Prescription Trails programs aimed at objectives from preventing obesity in children to healthful activities for retirees (Tinyurl.com/AmericanHealthTrails).

Bestselling author Richard Louv calls the positive nature effect “vitamin N” in The Nature Principle. He contends: “Many of us, without having a name for it, are using the nature tonic. We are, in essence, self-medicating with an inexpensive and unusually convenient

drug substitute.”

Such ideas are commonly accepted in many cultures. The Japanese believe in the restorative power of shinrin-yoku, which could be translated as “forest medicine” or “forest bathing”. Indigenous peoples like the Brazilian tribe led by Shaman Davi Kopenawa Yanomami, fighting to preserve their land and way of life in the Amazon, profess to be at one with the innate riches of sustainable rainforests (SurvivalInternational.org/ parks).

Innovative Nature

Scientists, inventors and other innovators are increasingly inspired by nature.

Biomimicry, part social movement and part burgeoning industry, looks to how Earth’s natural systems work and solve problems. University of Utah researchers, inspired by the durable homes built by sandcastle worms, are creating a synthetic glue that one day could help repair fractured bones.

Architectural components manufacturer Panelite makes energy-efficient insulated glass by mimicking the hexagonal structure that bees use in honeycombs.

(Find other precedents at Tinyurl.com/ BiomimicryCaseExamples).

The inspiration for biomimicry comes from many places, says Dayna Baumeister, Ph.D. co-founder of Biomimicry 3.8, a Missoula, Montana, company working with other companies and universities to propel biomimicry into the mainstream.

“People are recognizing that they’ve been disconnected to the natural world,” she says. “We also realize that [as a species] we are in trouble. We don’t have all the answers, but we can look to other species for inspiration” for clearing pollutants from our bodies and environments.

Plants and fungi are now commonly used to clean up old industrial sites that resemble nature’s way of removing

pollutants from water and soil. A University of California, Berkeley, meta-study confirms that farmers currently using organic farming methods and solar power achieve roughly the same crop yields as conventional techniques with far less dependence on fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gases and petrochemical pesticide and fertilizer pollution.

Cyclical Nature

These breakthrough technologies emulate the way nature uses the building

blocks of life in an endless cycle of birth, reproduction, decay and rebirth. It’s part of a broad rethinking of the principles behind sustainability—building, manufacturing and living in greater harmony with natural systems, perhaps eventually eliminating landfills, air and water pollution, and toxic site cleanups.

“A toxin is a material in the wrong place,” says architect William McDonough, of Charlottesville, Virginia. The only individual recipient of the Presidential Award for Sustainable Development, he is co-author of

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19

Cradle-to-Cradle, a groundbreaking book that calls for re-envisioning even the nastiest waste, and The Upcycle: Beyond Sustainability—Designing for Abundance. McDonough imagines a world where waste becomes raw material for new buildings, furniture and other goods—akin to how a forest reuses every deceased tree and animal to nourish the ecosystem and spawn new life.

With 80 percent of U.S. residents currently living in urban areas, architects, builders and municipal planners are likewise pivoting toward nature, prompted by the scientific evidence of the many ways that human health and general well-being rely upon it. While this contact is preferably the kind of “stopping by woods” that inspired New England poet Robert Frost, even a walk in a city park will work.

“Urban nature, when provided as parks and walkways and incorporated into building design, provides calming and inspiring environments and encourages learning, inquisitiveness and alertness,” reports the University of Washington’s College of the Environment, in Green Cities: Good Health.

The American Planning Association stresses the importance of integrating green space into urban neighborhoods.

Not only does so-called “metro nature” improve air and water quality and reduce urban heat island effects, urban wilds such as Pittsburgh’s Nine Mile Run and Charlotte, North Carolina’s Little Sugar Creek Greenway also restore natural connections in densely populated city centers.

Natural Intelligence

A growing number of scientists say that research about our place in nature has

sparked fresh thinking about our role and devastated quaint notions about our species’ superiority. “Single-celled slime molds solve mazes. Brainless plants make correct decisions and bees with brains the size of pinheads handle abstract concepts,” points out Anthropologist Jeremy Narby, author of the groundbreaking book Intelligence in Nature.

At a national conference of Bioneers, an organization based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and San Francisco that gathers nature-minded social and scientific innovators, Narby said: “We are nearly identical to many animals.

Many behaviors once thought to be exclusively human are shared by other species. The zone of the specifically human, as determined by science, has been shrinking.”

We haven’t lost the ability to tap that primal animal inside, even if most of us are more likely to “venture into the forest” by watching a movie or playing video games. We may feel cut off from our instincts, but studies show time in the woods can do wonders to restore the keenness of our senses to connect with the subtle changes in natural habitat, the movements of other species and the changing seasons.

The rise of human civilizations may have taken “survival of the fittest” in new directions, often decidedly tamer ones, but experts ranging from scientific researchers to lifestyle analysts say humankind is still hardwired by our more primitive past. Despite the ingenious ways we’ve devised to exploit other life forms, capitalize on Earth’s resources and protect ourselves from nature’s sometimes terrifying power, our fate remains linked to natural laws and limits, from nurturing our body’s immune system to resolving

True-Life

‘Aha!’ Reads

10 Lessons from Nature to Inspire Our Everyday Lives

by David Miller, Tinyurl.com/10InspiringLessons FromNature 9 Amazing Lessons from Nature to Inspire Your Everyday Life

by Annie Hauser, Tinyurl.com/9InspiringLessons FromNature Intelligence in Nature

by Jeremy Narby Life Lessons from Nature

by Elvis Newman Cathedrals of the Spirit

by T. C. McLuhan Your Brain on Nature

by Eva Selhub planet-sized problems like climate change.

“‘Nature’ is our natural environment,” according to Selhub. We don’t have to move to the country to reconnect, she says. “Even spending 20 minutes a day outside has an effect.” Houseplants, nature photos and aromatherapy Earth scents can also help indoor environments better reflect our own nature.

The wealth of research and common sense wisdom is aptly summed up by celebrated author Wendell Berry in The Long-Legged House. “We have lived our lives by the assumption that what was good for us would be good for the world.

We have been wrong. We must change our lives so that it’ll be possible to live by the contrary assumption, that what is good for the world will be good for us.

And that requires we make the effort to know the world and learn what is good for it.”

Christine MacDonald is a freelance journalist in Washington, D.C., whose specialties include health and science.

Visit ChristineMacDonald.info.

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I found it — -Aging!

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healthykids

EARTH IN PERIL Children Confront Climate Change

by Avery Mack

collection. We study them to see the effect of temperature change,” says Melanie Stiassny, Ph.D., curator of ichthyology at the museum. “The mummichog fish is less than an inch long. It’s a bottom feeder and that’s where pollution like mercury lies.

When the water is warm, fish eat more and mercury is stored in their bodies.” The contaminants move up the food chain, bringing the effects of pollution to our dinner table.

We only have one home. If we mess this one up, where do we go next? ~Hippocrates, age 8

T

his month, Home Box Office (HBO), in collaboration with New York City’s American Museum of Natural History, will air the new documentary, Saving My Tomorrow.

Scientists representing the museum discuss how temperature change affects life on Planet Earth, but the majority of voices are those of children. Their words cry out for universal action to prevent them from inheriting what they believe is a dying planet in desperate need of healing.

In the Atmosphere

“We need to know the truth, because adults clearly aren’t doing enough to stop this.” ~Zoe, age 12 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and NASA recently announced that last year was the hottest in 135 years of recordkeeping, with rising ocean temperatures driving the global heat index.

Nine of the 10 hottest years have occurred since 2000. The odds of this taking place randomly are about 650 million to 1, especially without an El Nino influence, according to University of South Carolina statistician John Grego.

“The globe is warmer than it has been in the last 100 years,” says climate scientist Jennifer Francis, Ph.D., of Rutgers University, in New Jersey. “Any wisps of doubt that human activities are at fault are now gone with the wind.”

At Sea

“We do more damage to the planet than we think.” ~Peri, age 9 In the same 100 years, sea levels have risen seven inches, mostly due to expansion as the water warms. “We have over 2 million preserved fish in our

A 2006 study by Nicola Beaumont, Ph.D., with the Plymouth Marine Laboratory UK, found that 29 percent of the oceans’ edible fish and seafood species have declined by 90 percent in the past 100 years. The international team of ecologists and economists led by Boris Worm, Ph.D., of Dalhousie University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, predict total saltwater fish extinction by 2048 due to overfishing, pollution, habitat loss and climate change. Rising ocean acidity due to absorption of increasing carbon dioxide and other emissions from burning fossil fuels impacts creatures large and small, like dissolving the shell of the tiny sea butterfly, a vital link in the ocean’s food chain.

Americans currently consume 4.5 billion pounds of seafood each year.

On Land

“Each species was put here for a reason.

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You might be the one to change the world.

that they need adults to work with them to keep Earth habitable.

~Max, age 9

HBO will air all four parts of Saving My Tomorrow starting Apr. 22. Check local listings—and watch as a family. See Tinyurl.com/SavingMyTomorrow.

Scientists look back to look ahead.

Henry David Thoreau fell in love with the wilderness around Concord, Massachusetts, 160 years ago. From his renowned journals, scientists know when flowers like the pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule), bird’s-foot violets (Viola pedata) or golden ragworts (Packera aurea) used to bloom. Today, with temperatures six degrees Fahrenheit warmer than in Thoreau’s time, these species now bloom two weeks earlier.

The Canada lily (Lilium canadense), plentiful before, is now rare, unable to adapt to the new reality.

Paul Sweet, collections manager of the museum’s ornithology department, studies “skins” (stuffed birds). He says, “The skins show us how birds lived years ago.” In just the past 100 years, bird species that have gone extinct range from the ivory-billed woodpecker (Campephilus principalis) to the onceabundant passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) and Carolina parakeet (Conuropsis carolinensis).

In Colorado, 70 percent of the lodgepole pines have been lost, with pines in other states also in trouble. Pine beetles feed on the pines. Historically, winter brings death to both the beetles and weakened trees, which fall to feed a renewed forest. Due to warmer temperatures, the beetles are living longer and migrating to higher altitudes to kill more trees. Forest fires follow the dry timber line.

All Are Needed

“I don’t have time to grow up before becoming an activist.” ~Ta’Kaiya, age 12 “Get your parents involved.” ~Teakahla, age 11 Children are more informed now than ever before. Schools offer classes on ecology, the environment, global warming and climate change. Disasters are instant news, constantly streaming through digital media. Kids are aware www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Connect with freelance writer Avery Mack at AveryMack@mindspring.com.

Forward Good Change Today 4 Reuse more, buy less. Less trash equals less pollution.

4 Bike or walk, instead of driving.

Don’t use the car at least one day a week. Less use of fossil fuels equals less drilling, fracking and oil spills.

4 Substitute a planet-healing activity for the usual after school program. Replace lawns with native plants, which need less water and no mowing. Email manufacturers to urge them to use less packaging and plastic, auto makers to produce more fuel-efficient cars, grocery stores to carry more locally sourced foods and ban plastic bags, and government agencies to improve pollution control measures.

4 When eating meat, make sure the animals were humanely and locally raised, not factory farmed.

4 For fish, factory farmed is preferred when farmers are vetted by watchdog agencies for being devoid of disease, pollution and heavy metals; clean fish are especially rare among international providers. Learn more at Tinyurl.com/SustainableFishFarming.

4 Support wildlife. Help hatchling sea turtles make their way to the sea. Predators and man are the biggest threats—only one in 1,000 hatchlings reach adulthood.

Plant milkweed to feed monarch butterflies. Use natural insect repellants like basil or marigolds instead of killer sprays.

4 Speak out and speak up. Search c2es.org/science-impacts/basics/ kids for event ideas and resources.

natural awakenings

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classifieds To place a Classified Listing: Email listing to mike@NaturalAwakeningsHouston.com. Must be received by the 10th of month prior to publication. $20 (up to 20 words) + $1 per word over 20 words.

3-month minimum. Must be prepaid.

EQUINE THERAPY RECONNECT WITH NATURE AND ANIMALS! Outdoor organic learning and meditation for all ages with horses plus spiritual life coaching. 16-Hands of Love 281-948-0739 sixteenhandsoflove@yahoo.com

ESSENTIAL OILS DOTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS Sign up fee $35 and all products are 25% off. Visit mydoterra.com/tammytheriot to join or email me at tammytheriot@earthlink.net for more information. 832-527-2450 www.LightworkerEvents.com HEALING ARTS SCHOOL JULIA ELIZABETH CARROLL SCHOOL OF HEALING ARTS ♥ ♥ APRIL 11 - NU-REIKI ONENESS CLASS JUNE 27 - ART THERAPY (CEUs from UH-Clear Lake) Check website for further information: www.juliacarroll1.com (PayPal) julia@juliacarroll1.com 713.822.7380

HELP WANTED EARN EXTRA INCOME - Part-time ad sales positions available in several areas. Send resume to Cindy @naturalawakenings-houston.com or call 713-927-6540.

MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION - Join the Natural Awakenings Team! We are looking for distributors to deliver magazines monthly on routes in The Galleria area, Katy and Copperfield. Must be dependable and have dependable transportation. Send resume to Mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com PART-TIME RECYCLING JOBS! Great pay, flexible hours! Excellent drivers and persons able to lift 30+ pounds needed. Send resume to info@recycle4u.us, or fax: 713-952-9256.

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE, 1000sqft next to doctor’s office. 3 rooms, bathroom facilities & handicap accessibility. Contact Dr Medley 713-782-2156

Ne Sh w op W ly U O eb pg ur St rad or e e d

by Deika King, MSCPM, CCT 832-422-7271

RESERVE THIS SPACE ADVERTISE HERE For Details, Email: Cindy@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Classified ad must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Certified Natural Health Practitioner Donna Fry, Naturopath, CNHP

SHARED SPACE

281-687-0792

NORTHWEST WELLNESS CLINIC subleasing/hour to self-employed Chair Massage therapist, Nutritionist, Accupuncturist and Ayurvedic practitioners. For details email: dl@cfgcounseling.com

Private Consultations.

Classes and Workshops www.SphereOfSerenity.110mb.com

Finally, there’s a solution: try Natural Awakenings’ DermaClear, a natural, affordable, skin repair salve.

DermaClear brings comforting relief to sufferers of many skin irritations. The cooling and soothing calcium mortmorillonite/ calcium bentonite clay has been proven to be effective against: • SHINGLES • PSORIASIS • ECZEMA • BURNS • RASHES • JOCK ITCH • STINGS & MORE 4-oz jar $29.99 + $5 shipping/up to 5 jars Order online today at

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Breast Thermography Providing breast health screening and education for the prevention and protection of breast disease. www.BrasThermography.com

Have a Stubborn Skin Disorder and Tried Everything Else?

26

Naturally, Around Town Personal Services Directory

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Hypnosis-ReikiEssential Oils Claudia Autry 281-849-4610

Upgrade your life with hypnosis.

Stop Smoking, Weight Management, Optimistic Outlook, Performance Enhancement, Super Learning. Relax Rebalance with Reiki. Change your Life with Essential Oils. Custom blends consultations for healing available

mydoterra.com/claudiaautry

Notice

Let our readers know where you are and what you do.

Advertise here!

Call 713-927-6540

calendarofevents NOTE: All Calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Email Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 1

12 Moments of Spirituality and Healing: Jewish meditation. 12 pm. The series is co-sponsored by Ligmincha Texas Institute, The Jung Center of Houston, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the Rothko Chapel. Suggested donation $10. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon 77006. 713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org

SATURDAY APRIL 4

Marva’s Psychic and Holistic Fair. 10am-5pm.

Psychics, tarot readers, palmists, healers, vendors of all sorts. Admission Free. LaQuina Inn-Galleria on 610 West Loop North between San Felipe and Post Oak, 77027. 713.444.3581 psychicfairs.com.

Chuck Murphy, Spiritual/Psychic Intuitive and Medium . 10am-5pm. Put your hands in Chuck’s hands and let him tell you what Spirit tells him.

He’s a “rare medium, well done.” $20 At Marva’s Psychic Fair. LaQuina Inn-Galleria on 610 West Loop North between San Felipe and Post Oak, 77027. 713.444.3581 psychicfairs.com.

SUNDAY APRIL 5

Run for Wellness 5K-Heights. 8am. A free 5K every month! All paces are welcome. Want to test your fitness level, see how you are doing with your training, or just want to start doing something healthy; come race with us! Free but must pre-register. University of Houston-Downtown, Naylor Parking Lot, 77002.

831.387.5348 thehwp.org Bayou Bikers. 8-11am. Free. A 25- to 40-mile bike ride exploring the bayous of Houston. Rides are open to all. Mountain bikes or bikes with fat tires are necessary. This is an informal group whose purpose is to show Houstonians and visitors the beauty of Houston’s waterways.Free. Market Square 301 Milam, 77002. 713-845-1000 marketsquarepark.com Half-Day Zen Retreat. 9am-noon. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281.568.1568. cthouston.org Easter Psychic & Health Expo. 1-5 pm. Psychics, Astrology, Tarot, Ear Candling, Massage, Fengsue, Ionic Foot Bath, Palmist, Pranic, Reiki & Matrix Healers, Jewelry, Foot Reflexology, Pet Massage, Pet Healing, FREE coffee, tea & pastries. Admission Free. Center Point, 1920 Holister, 77080.

713.932.7224 centerpointhouston.com Open House and Meditation. 5-6:30 pm. Whether you’ve never sat on a meditation cushion, or it’s just been a while, this is the perfect event to learn how to meditate and how it can be beneficial. Free.

Diamond Way Buddhist Center. 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D., 77018. 281. 436.6081. diamondway.org/ houston/

TUESDAY APRIL 7

Houston Zoo. 2-6pm. The Houston Zoo offers free admission to our guests on the first Tuesday of each month, September through May, from noon until closing. Free. Houston Zoo 6200 Hermann Park Drive, 77030. houstonzoo.org Deepak Chopra: “The 13th Disciple”. 7:30-9:30 pm. World renowned doctor, teacher, and bestselling author Deepak Chopra will explain the research and ideas that he drew from to write his newest book, the novel The 13th Disciple, which weaves together storytelling, historical narrative, mystery, and intrigue to reveal surprising discoveries about an unknown last disciple of Christ. Each ticket includes a copy of Deepak’s new book, The 13th Disciple, redeemable when you check-in the evening of the event. Book signing following the event. $55. Unity of Houston 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713.782.4050. unityhouston.org

THURSDAY APRIL 9

Art Car Sneak Peak featuring Aaron Neville. 6:3010pm A sneak peek like no other! The one and only Aaron Neville “tells it like it is” performing a free concert for the public and the artists of the 28th Annual Art Car parade. See the Art Cars up close and meet the artists. Made possible by a grant from the Kinder Foundation with additional support from Buffalo Bayou Partnership and The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Da Camera JAM: Tom Borling Trio; Tom Borling Bebop Band. 6:30 pm. Free concerts organized by Discovery Green and Da Camera of Houston to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month! Presented with funding from the Houston Arts Alliance. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Spiritual Healing & Messages from Angels.

7-9pm. $10. 440 Benmar Drive #1015, 77060.

832.525.3486 victoriaalvarado.com

FRIDAY APRIL 10

Intuitive Painting Series 10am-12:30pm. When you understand the nature of creativity and its principles, you begin to relax and trust. You will learn these principles during this series. Intuitive Painting swings the doors open to living with more expression and authenticity. You will learn what separates you from your aliveness. You will be pleasantly surprised how good it feels to be in the flow of your own life. $50. The Houston Heights 77008. Reserve your space by emailing Cherie@trueyoucreativity. com Facilitator: Cherie Ray.

SATURDAY APRIL 11

Living Your Voice with Tony Pryor. 10 am-5 pm.

Imagine how different your life might be if you could express your inner voice authentically. Tony Pryor, an experienced voice coach, speaker and performer, will facilitate his Living Your Voice 101 workshop. This workshop combines fundamental vocal techniques with creative performance experiences that will help you build greater confidence. $190. The Houston Heights 77008. Livingyourvoice.com 832-545-8488 Earth Day Celebration @ The Arboretum. 10am2pm. Come take part in our Earth conscious activities such as guided hikes, crafts from recycled materials, face painting, and introduction to our Citizen Science projects. Free. Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. houstonarboretum.org Earth Day 2015@ Discovery Green. 11am-8pm.

Free, family fun. Green expo, bands, food trucks.

Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. earthdayhouston.org Spirit Quest Psychic and Holistic Fair. 1-6pm. We feature Crystal Color Light & Sound Bed - sound, color and energy work, Reiki, Aura Photos, Angel Therapy, Reflexology, Ear Candling, Ion Foot Baths, Massage, Qi Gong, and Animal Healing.

Admission Free. Spirit Quest Center, 303 Main Street, Old Town Spring, 77373. 281.288.7815 thespiritquestcenter.com Unitarian Universalist Music, Peace and Justice Festival – 3-9 pm Music, food, belly dancers, arts & crafts, drumming, Houston Peace and Justice Center information, Children’s Peace Club activities, and more. FREE. Unitarian Fellowship of Houston 1504 Wirt Rd. 77055. HPJC.org

SUNDAY APRIL 12

Earth Day Native Plant Sale. 9am-4pm. The last sale of the season! Native plants require lower maintenance – saving you time and money. Plus, they create a habitat for a host of native wildlife – including songbirds, butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.

What better way to make a lasting change to honor the Earth! Plants are sourced from local growers and proceeds from the sale benefit the Arboretum’s conservation and education efforts. Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. houstonarboretum.org Blessing Ceremony. 10am-12n. Come and experience peace and blessing. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072.

281.568.1568. cthouston.org Psychic Sunday. 1-5 pm. Enjoy a private Tarot, Palm, Rune, Numerology Reading from Houston’s Best for Only $20. Also available Healers, doing Reiki, Matrix, Pranic & Access Healing. Massage, Nutritionist, Fengshui, Ion Foot Bath, Sage, Incense, Jewelry, Ear Candling, Reflexology, Gluten Test and SRT; Spiritual Response Therapy. Admission Free.

Center Point, 1920 Holister, 77080. 713.932.7224 centerpointhouston.com

TUESDAY APRIL 14

Twilight Meditation. 6 pm. Lose yourself in the rousing, emotional devotion of a Hindu kirtan.

A reception follows the program. Suggested donation $10. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon 77006.

713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org

MONDAY APRIL 6

Creative Meditation 6:30-7:45pm Learn ways to live more meditatively and with less pressure. FREE. Reserve your space by emailing to Cherie@trueyoucreativity.com Facilitator: Cherie Ray

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SATURDAY APRIL 18

Discovery Green Flea Market. 11am-5pm. Treasure-hunt at this monthly, one-of-a-kind market nestled in the shady southeast end of the downtown park. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Musical meditation for Menilfest. 1pm. Watch the light dance on Mark Rothko’s masterpiece while listening to music from composers of various faith traditions in one expression of common humanity.

Intersection New Music Collective is comprised of performers from faculty at Sam Houston State University, as well as student musicians from the University of Houston and Rice University graduate and doctoral programs. Suggested donation $10.

Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon 77006. 713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org Timber for Manilfest. 4 pm. Experience the inspirational and contemplative sound meditation of Michael Gordon’s Timber in the Rothko Chapel.

Performed by six percussionists the patterns in the music subtly change and evolve, much the colors in Mark Rothko’s paintings. Performers include percussionists Brandon Bell, Craig Hauschildt, Luke Hubley, Graeme Francis, Matthew McClung, and Neil Sisauyhoat, marking the Houston premiere of this work. Suggested donation $10. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon 77006. 713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org One day Meditation Retreat – 8am-3pm Through Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien’s clear teachings she guides students to connect with Awake mind and to apply meditation through various daily activities such as sitting, walking, eating, and working, to Wake Up and live truly happy in any situation.

Suggested donation $50, includes refreshments and lunch. Universal Door Meditation Center 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718

SUNDAY APRIL 19

Health & Psychic Expo. 1-5 pm. Psychics, Astrology, Tarot, Ear Candling, Massage, Ionic Foot Bath, Palmist, Pranic, Reiki & Matrix Healers, Jewelry, Foot Reflexology, Pet Massage, Pet Healing, Gluten Testing, Fengshui. FREE coffee, tea & pastries.

Admission Free. Center Point, 1920 Holister, 77080.

713.932.7224 centerpointhouston.com Meditation Workshop. 10-11 am. Learn how to meditate. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston.

12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281.568.1568. cthouston.org

MONDAY APRIL 20

Creativity Salon, 1:30-4:30pm. Would you like to connect with other women who are connected to their creative sides? This is a unique opoortunity to come together for community, creativity and exploring the spiritual side of everyday life. The intention is for fun and community in Galveston, TX. No experience required. All materials are provided. $65. To register: www.trueyoucreativity. com Facilitator: Cherie Ray Beaver’s Monthly Social Ride. 7pm. Every kind of bike is welcome This ride ends at Bohemeo’s on Telephone Rd. but there is always a group that rides back. Beaver’s 2310 Decature 77007.

THURSDAY APRIL 23

Lunch Coach is on Call! Noon-12:45 pm This month the focus of our conversation is: “Challenging people: How to thrive even when they work here too!”

FREE. Call in instructions at: trueyoucreativity.

Facilitator: Cherie Ray.

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Houston

Da Camera JAM: Tom David Caceres Jazz Quartet and Bobby Lyle Trio. 6:30 pm. Free concerts organized by Discovery Green and Da Camera of Houston to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month! Presented with funding from the Houston Arts Alliance.

Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Spiritual Healing & Messages from Angels. 7-9pm. $10. Victoria Alvarado 440 Benmar Drive Suite 1015, 77060. 832.525.3486 victoriaalvarado.com

FRIDAY APRIL 24

Critical Mass-Houston. Assemble at 6:30 pm.

Roll at 7:15pm. A casual bike ride starting from downtown Houston and going wherever. Cars rule the road every day, but one day a month we get together to celebrate our love for bicycles and have fun riding. Free. Market Square 301 Milam, 77002. criticalmasshouston.com Free Monthly Affirmation Gathering with Doyle Ward—7-8:30 pm. April is focused on the Abundance of Spirit. Do your thoughts influence your life? Find out by joining us each Friday night to learn about the impact of affirmative thinking! This is a powerful evening focused on affirmative thinking to help you achieve your dreams! ~Donations welcomed~ Spectrum Center, 4100 Westheimer, Suite 233, 77027. For more information and to sign up for a FREE weekly affirmation newsletter, visit: www. blissfulquests.com or call 832-628-4113.

SATURDAY APRIL 25

Taming Your Inner Critic: 40 Plays to a New Way 10am-1pm 40 days is considered by many faiths to be a number of transformation. Would you like to transform your relationship with your iner critic and have fun while you do it? I this workshop you will create a collaged journal and launch a 40 Day Adventure to promote play, invite aliveness into your life and tame your inner critic in just a few minutes a day. $65. The Houston Heights 77008. To register: www.trueyoucreativity.com Facilitator: Cherie Ray Bayou Bash 2015. 1-4pm. Join Bayou Buddies for their biggest fundraiser of the year featuring crawfish and libations, live entertainment, silent auction, lawn games, kayak demos and pontoon boat rides. $40 at the door. Buffalo Bayou Partnership. 150 Sabine Street 77007 buffalobayou.org Electric Satsang with Dwain Briggs- 6:30PM. $10.00 Donation @ the door. First Spiritualist Church of Houston, NSAC 2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Tx. 77093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org The Lego Movie. (PG) 2014. 8:30 pm. A lowly Lego figure joins a group intent on battling an evil force after a case of mistaken identity. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

SUNDAY APRIL 26

FREE Healing Expo. 1-5 pm. Experience all sorts of different healing techniques today for free. Reiki, Matrix, Psychic Clearing, Chakra Balancing, Pet Healing & moreAlso available Tarot, Nutritionist, Massage, Reflexology, Pet psychic, Ion detox Foot Bath, Ear candling, Aura Readings & more.

Psychics & Palmist available.($20 readings). Free Snacks & Refreshments. Admission Free. Center Point, 1920 Holister, 77080. 713.932.7224 centerpointhouston.com

THURSDAY APRIL 30

International Jazz Day: Jason Moran 6:30 pm.

The legendary Jason Moran – Native Houstonian, MacArthur genius and Kennedy Center Artistic Director for Jazz – performs alongside students from the jazz department of his alma mater, HSPVA. Free concerts organized by Discovery Green and Da Camera of Houston to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month! Presented with funding from the Houston Arts Alliance. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com

planahead SUNDAY MAY 3

Half-Day Zen Retreat. 9am-noon. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281.568.1568. cthouston.org

SUNDAY MAY 10

Blessing Ceremony. 10am-12n. Come and experience peace and blessing. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072.

281.568.1568. cthouston.org

FRIDAY MAY 15

John Cappello’s Spirit Gallery. 7-9 pm. This event is about the demonstration of the continuity of life by connecting with loved ones who have crossed over into the spirit world. John Cappello, certified psychic medium uses his ability to verify our souls exist after leaving the physical body. A Spirit Gallery helps those in grief be assured their loved one is okay and in a better place. $35 at the door. Spirit Quest Center 303 Main Street, Old Town Spring, 77373. 281.288.7815 thespiritquestcenter.com or johncappello.com

SUNDAY MAY 17

Meditation Workshop. 10-11 am. Learn how to meditate. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston.

12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281.568.1568. cthouston.org

SUNDAY MAY 24

Blessing Ceremony. 10am-12n. Come and experience peace and blessing. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072.

281.568.1568. cthouston.org

SUNDAY JULY 12

Crossing Over with John Edward. 6pm. A John Edward “group” event or seminar is reading intensive. There will be question and answer sessions and messages from the other side. No one attending any John Edward event is guaranteed a reading. $150.

Doubletree Hotel 15747 JFK Boulevard 77032. See more at: johnedward.net/ 800-514-3849.

ongoingevents NOTE: All Calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Email Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please.

Capoeira Angola. 7:30-9:30pm. Capoeira Angola is a martial art incorporating dance, music and philosophy. It was developed by Africans in Brazil during colonial times. $15. The Flamenco Room 4212 Canal Street, 77003. lipanurban.org

wednesday

daily

tuesday

Central City Co-Op. 9am-6:30pm. Admission Free.

Grace Lutheran Church 2515 Waugh Drive, 77006. centralcityco-op.com

Canino Produce and Farmer’s Market. 6am-8pm (except Christmas and Thanksgiving) Over 20,000 square feet of Texas produce. Canino Produce and Farmer’s Market 2520 Airline, 77009. 713.862.4027 caninoproduce.com

Introductory Tai Chi with Greg 9-10am. Experience the soft, smooth movements of Tai Chi Chuan while enjoying a view of the forest. $15. Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. Call to register: 713-366-0421 or come 15 min early. houstonarboretum.org Iyengar Yoga with Daryl 10:30am-12n. Slow down and relax in the peaceful beauty of the Arboretum during a 90-minute Iyengar yoga session. $15.

Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024.

Call to register: 713-366-042 or come 15 min early. houstonarboretum.org Eden Energy with Stania. 1:30-3:30pm. This energy class will focus on working directly with the body’s energy systems to help create health and wellness.

Benefits from this class include: Boosted energy level Enhanced metabolism Improved memory Reduced stress. $18. Green Planet Sanctuary 13424B Briar Forest, 77077. 713-253-4208, call to RSVP. greenplanetsanctuary.com Spring Branch Farmer’s Market. 2-6pm. Admission Free. Unitarian Fellowship of Houston 1504 Wirt Road, 77055. facebook.com/springbranch farmersmarkethouston Rice University Farmer’s Market. 3:30-6:30pm.

Admission Free. Rice University, West Stadium Lot, 5600 Greenbriar,77005. farmersmarket.rice.edu/ Circus Arts. 5:30-7:30pm. Discover a new art form consisting of ground arts and acrobatics from Houston based Cirque La Vie. Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Core Focused Yoga. 6:30-7:30 pm. Yoga postures train the body for strength and flexibility. Dynamic flow sequences get the body warm and the heart pumping, while long-held poses strengthen and stretch the muscles. Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney 77010. Discoverygreen.com.

Yoga Skills for a Changing World with Brandy Deutsch. 6:30pm. $60 per month or $20 drop in.

Spectrum Center 4100 Westheimer at Midlane, 77027. 233. 832.754.5022 holisticchanges.net Intro to Meditation 101 – 7-8pm Universal Door Meditation Center offers this beginner level class open to the public. Here we begin to discover the difference between False Mind and Awake Mind by applying basic Zen Meditation.

Donations Welcome. Universal Door Meditation Center 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Yoga. 7:00-8:00 pm. Get in touch with your mind, body, and spirit through Yoga! Connect with others in this non-competitive activity suitable for everyone. All body types and skill levels are welcome. Please bring a mat and towel. Extra mats are available for those new to Yoga. Donations Accepted. Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church 2015 West 11th Street 77008.

Yoga@ResurrectionMCC.org

Oneness Blessing. 5:30-6:45pm. Love Offering. Unity of Houston 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713.782.4050. unityhouston.org

Houston Arboretum. 8am-6pm. Walk in nature.

Learn about native plants and wildlife. Free.

Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. houstonarboretum.org Last Organic Outpost Harvest. 9am-4pm (except during extreme cold or rainy weather). Come and get your hands in the dirt. Help with the work of the garden and harvest your share for FREE. Last Organic Outpost 711 Emile Street, 77020. 832.422.8407 facebook.com/lastorganicoutpost.com Rothko Chapel. 10am-6pm (except during special events) The Rothko Chapel is an independent institution, a sacred place open to all people, every day. Free. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon, 77006.

713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org Lunch Prasadam, free vegetarian meal. 12:30pm. (except Sunday) A free vegetarian meal for any and all. Free. ISKCON Temple 1320 West 34th Street, 77018. 713. 686.4482 iskonhouston.org Waugh Bridge Bat Colony. Sunset. Every evening at sunset, more than 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from crevices found in the Waugh Drive Bridge. These creatures are non-migratory and call the bayou home yearround. Free. Waugh Street at Allen Parkway 77019. houstontx.gov/parks/bats.html

monday Regression Therapy with Eppie Munoz, Jr. 11am5pm. Access your past life to heal current life issues.

Edgar Cayce A.R.E. Center 7800 Amelia Road, 1B., 77055. Call 832.530.3360 to make an appointment. edgarcaycehouston.org/Eppie-Munoz,-Jr.html Bum-ba Toning. 6:30-7:30pm. Tighten and tone your bum and body. Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Beginners Yoga 7-8:30 pm Discover your strengths and balances through a therapeutic approach to yoga alignment and mind/body integration. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston 5200 Fannin 77004. stanpolins@hal-pc.org.

Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free. Downtown Library Countyard 521 Lamar, 77002.. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

natural awakenings

Urban Ride. 6:30pm. Friendly cycling group. All routes go through inner city – each day of the week we have a different route. Please obey the rules of the roads. Stop at all traffic lights and stop signs.

Free. Urban Bicycle Gallery 4814 Nett St. 77007. judy@urbanbicyclegallery.com Zumba. 6:30-7:30pm. The exercise craze that has everyone moving to the beat! Free. Admission Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com African Dance. 6:30-8:00pm. Lessons in African dance offered by Lipan Urban. $15. Tango Cielo 3710 Main Street, 77009. Lipanurban.org.

Diamond Way Meditation. 7-7:30 pm. Free.

Diamond Way Buddhist Center. 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D. 281., 77018. 436.6081. diamondway.org/houston/ Spiritual Unfoldment Meditation Class- 7:30PM -9PM Join us for our meditation circle class. Any changes in time will be texted to you if you sign up.

Love Offering, First Spiritualist Church of Houston, NSAC 2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Tx. 77093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org Liana Liles 713-240-0058 Blue Line Bike Ride. 7pm. Starts at the bike shop and heads east for a loop through the 5th ward and over the viaduct into downtown. Then it heads west on Washington to TC Jester and north up to 43rd St. The second half of the ride continues west on 43rd/ Clay Rd to Blalock and south to Westview where it heads back east to the Heights. Free. Blue Line Bike Lab - 3302 White Oak Drive, 77007. 713.802.1707 Beginning Zen Meditation. 7:30–9:30 pm. Free.

Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281.568.1568. cthouston.org Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free. Downtown Library Countyard 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

thursday Museum of Fine Arts-Houston. 10am-9pm. If you have not spent time enjoying the art exhibits at MFAH, what are your waiting for? Free. MFAH 1001 Bissonnet, 77005. 713.639.7300 mfah.org City Hall Farmer’s Market. 11am-1:30pm. Admission Free. City Hall 500 McKenny, 77002 (parking available at 400 Rusk) urbanharvest.org

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Buffalo Soldiers Museum. 1-5pm. Buffalo Soldiers Museum is the only museum dedicated to preserving the legacy and honor of African American soldiers in the United States. Free. Buffalo Soldiers Museum 3816 Caroline Street, 77004.

Buffalosoldiersmuseum.com 713.942.8920.

Houston Museum of Natural Science. 2-5pm. Roam the Serengeti, walk with dinosaurs and discover the world’s mineral wonders. Free. HMNS 5555 Hermann Park Drive 77030. hmns.org Westchase District Farmer’s Market. 3-6pm. Admission free. 10503 Westheimer, 77042. (1 block west of Beltway 8) westchasedistrict.com/market Kingwood Farmer’s Market. 3-7pm. Admission free Town Center Park, 8 N. Main in Kingwood 77339. facebook.com/kingwoodfarmersmarket Children’s Museum of Houston. 5-8pm. Enjoy all the interactive exhibits at the museum with your children. Free. Children’s Museum 1500 Binz., 77004. 713.522.1138 cmhouston.org Tai Chi by the Reflecting Pool. 5-6pm Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art whose physical practice offers general health benefits, stress management, increased energy and improved physical mobility. The physical and meditative aspects of Tai Chi, which uses slow, repetitive movements, are recognized as relieving the physical effects of stress on the body and mind. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon, 77006. 713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org New Class: Parkour. 6:30-8pm. Turning “working out” into “play,” Urban Movement teaches a realistic, scalable approach to natural movement like running, jumping, climbing, crawling, balancing, and vaulting. Ages 12-18 must have parental consent. Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Free EFT Tapping Thursdays with Helen Racz.

7-8:30pm. EFT is a healing modality based on the same principles as acupuncture but without the needles. Free. Spectrum Center 4100 Westheimer, Suite 233, 77027. 713.922.8895. efthouston.com Meditation Class: Discovering the Awake Within 7-9pm Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien closely guides and interacts with students to connect with Awake mind and to apply meditation. This class provides a stable foundation for those who are ready to move to the next level, go deeper in their meditation practice, and touch with the Awake within. Suggested donation $50/month. Universal Door Meditation Center 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Bohemeo’s Badass Bike Ride. 7pm. Every kind of bike is welcome but note the first and third Thursday of the month the ride is fast paced (16-18 mph) and contains about 20-25 miles with bridges. The other Thursdays it is a more social and slower ride, maintaining pace at 12-14 mph for about 12-15 miles. Free. Bohemeo’s 709 Telephone Road, 77023.

713.923.4277.

friday Regression Therapy with Eppie Munoz, Jr. 11am5pm. Access your past life to heal current life issues. A.R.E. Center 7800 Amelia Road, 1B, 77055. Call 832.530.3360 to make an appointment. edgarcaycehouston.org/Eppie-Munoz,-Jr.html

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Houston International Folk Dancers. 7:30-10pm.

Houston International Folk Dancers is a recreational folk dance group that celebrates ethnic dances from around the world: Eastern and Western Europe, Middle East and Mediterranean, and the Americas.

You will delight in the diverse rhythms, melodies and unique dance styles of cultures from over 30 countries. Experienced folk dancers are always ready to help beginners. Singles welcome. Dress comfortably. Admission is $5. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston 5200 Fannin 77004.

Additional info at www.folkdancers.org Spiritual Unfoldment Meditation Class- 8PM -10PM Join us for our meditation circle class. Any changes in time will be texted to you if you sign up.

Love Offering. First Spiritualist Church of Houston, NSAC 2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Tx. 77093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org Ken Pitman 832-692-3666 Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free. Downtown Library Count Yard, 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

saturday Eastside Urban Harvest Farmer’s Market. 8am12n. Admission Free. Parking lot behind 3000 Richmond at Eastside, 77098. . urbanharvest.org The Farm Stand at Petrol Station. 8am-12n. Admission Free. Petrol Station, 985 Wakefield 77018.

713.957.2875 Grogan’s Mill Village Farmer’s Market. 8am-12n.

Admission Free. 7 Switchbud Place in The Woodlands 77380. grogansmillvillage.com Farmer’s Market on Grand Parkway. 8am-12n.

Admission Free. Church of the Holy Apostles, 1225 W. Grand Parkway in Katy, 77494. farmersmarketongrandparkway.com Farmer’s Market at Imperial. 9am-1pm. Admission Free. 198 Kempner, Sugar Land, 77498. imperialsugarland.com Tomball Farmer’s Market. 9am-1pm. Admission Free. Corner of Main (FM 2920) and Cherry in downtown Tomball 77377. tomballfarmersmarket.org Blissful Warrior Yoga. 9-10am. A practice for enhanced awareness and a strong healthy body.

Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Yoga on the Plaza. 9-10:30am. Instructors from Bayou Bliss Yoga will lead a 60-minute invigorating practice of yoga postures. This practice focuses on building strength and flexibility through a sequence of flowing postures, followed by meditation.

The event will be canceled in case of inclement weather. $10. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon 77006.

713.524.9839 rothkochapel.org Beginning Zen Meditation. 10am-12n. Feeling stressed? Want something to help you feel better? Try meditation with us. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072.

281.568.1568. cthouston.org Recycling Saturdays. 11am-2pm. Bring your glass, paper, plastic, and aluminum to a recycling station at Discovery Green. Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com City Hall Urban Harvest Farmer’s Market. 11am1:30 pm. Free. 901 Bagby, 77002. urbanharvest.org.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Drumming Class: djembe. 1:30-2:30. Group djembe drumming class by Lipan Urban. $15.

The Eye of Africa Gallery 709 11th Street, 77008.

Lipanurban.org.

Falun Dafa. 4-6pm. Falun Gong also known as Falun Dafa is a traditional Chinese qigong practice. It uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind, and spirit. Falun Gong is a complete and powerful system, which consists of five simple exercises, which can be performed by anyone regardless of age, physical condition, or prior experience. If you plan to visit a practice location, please call the contact person beforehand. Outside of Chinese Consulate 3417 Montrose Blvd., 77006.

Henry 956.844.2835. falun-houston.org

sunday Movement Meditation for Healing Mind and Body – 9:30 – 10:30am With an emphasis on bringing together mind, body, and movement to be in the present moment, Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien guides students to connect with Awake mind, which also restores and refreshes every aspect of our being.

Suggested donation $50/month. Universal Door Meditation Center 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Oneness Blessing Meeting. 10-10:30pm. The Oneness Blessing is a direct transfer of intelligent sacred energy which causes the heart to open, quiets the chatter of the mind, opens the door to higher states of consciousness and initiates a process of Awakening into Oneness. Love Offering. Unity of Houston 2929 Unity Dr, 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org H e a l i n g S e r v i c e , L e c t u re , a n d M e s s a g es from Spirit. 10:30 am First Spiritualist Church of Houston, NSAC. Music by Dwain Briggs. 713-695-2550 2115 Turner Dr. 77093 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org Dance Evolution-Central. 10:30-1 pm. Freeform barefoot movement community. Free.

Planet Funk Academy- 5731 Logan Ln. 77008. ecstaticdanceevolution.com/ Discovery Hoop Dance. 10:30-11:30am. Have a blast burning calories! Free. Discovery Green 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com Youth and Teen Program at Universal Door Meditation Center 11:00am – 12:30pm For youth grades 1-12. Through games and activities, they are introduced to basic meditation practice and life skills needed to understand more about themselves and how to be truly happy. Suggested donation $60/month. Universal Door Meditation Center 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Magnolia Farmer’s & Artisan’s Market. 11am-3pm.

1st & 3rd Sundays. Admission Free. Intersection of FM 1488 and FM 1774 in Magnolia, 77354. sweetmagnoliapickins.net Diamond Way Meditation. 5-5:30 pm. Free.

Diamond Way Buddhist Center. 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D., 77018. 281. 436.6081. diamondway.org/houston/ Food Not Bombs. 7pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free.

Downtown Library Countyard 521 Lamar, 77002 houstonfoodnotbombs.org

COUNSELING JOAN W. GILL, MED, LPC

4100 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 233 Houston 77027 (Inside Loop 610) 713-906-0306 JoanGill.com

A psychotherapy practice specializing in grief, trauma and issues that affect older women.

Trained in EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitizing Reprocessing) for Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Ericksonian hypnosis one of the fastest growing and influential branches of hypnotherapy today that regularly achieves success where traditional hypnotherapy fails

HOLISTIC NETWORKING HOLISTIC LIVING NETWORK Peggy Rome & Kathleen Elmore 281-359-5285 nrome@kingwoodcable.com HolisticLivingNetwork.org

Providing learning and networking opportunities for those interested in all aspects of holistic living.

Meets 7 p.m. on second Tuesday of month at Cafe East in Humble.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email cindy@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request our media kit.

MEDITATION CLASSES CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON

Chan/Zen Meditation Classes Guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. No fees. Donations are welcome. No prior experience required for beginners.

12129 Bellaire Blvd., Houston 77072 281-568-1568 • zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org

Beginning Meditation: (A) Wed, 7:30–9:30 pm (B) Sat, 10:00 am–noon. Classes start Wednesday, April 29. Children Meditation: Sat 10:00am–12:00 pm - For children ages 4–12 and parents. Classes start Saturday, May 2. Half-day Retreat: Sunday, April 5, 9:00 amnoon. Sunday, May 3, 9:00 am-noon. Meditation Workshop: Sunday, April 19, 10:00 am-11:00 am.

Sunday, May 17, 10:00 am-11:00 am. Blessing Ceremony: Sunday, April 12, 10:00 am-noon.

Sunday, May 10, 10:00 am-noon. Sunday, May 24, 10:00 am-noon. Check the web site (event calendar) for the most current information. See ad on page 20.

1920 Holister Houston, TX 77080.

281-440-3136 LBnutritionist@comcast.net

Stay out of the doctor’s office!

Superior live whole foods concentrated that you simply add to your smoothie. Quick and easy with no shopping or cooking. Also, products for detox and weight loss.

Non-invasive gluten sensitivity test available. Anti-aging skin care products that will reduce the look of your face by 10 years in a few months with daily use. Center Point, 1920 Holister, 77080 on April 12, 19 and 26 from 1-5:00 pm. Call or email for an appointment.

THERMAL IMAGING SERVICES Angel Marlow, CNHP, CAHC, CCT 3300 Chimney Rock, Ste. 208 713-621-4406 Angel@Thermography-Images.com Thermography-Images.com

No Compression, No Radiation, Painless. Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging or Thermography, creates images that illustrate heat patterns in the body. The thermal images are analyzed for abnormalities that may be signs of disease in the body. Thermography can be conducted onsite at your business through Thermal Imaging Services for Corporate Wellness. Locations in: Houston, Lake Charles, LA, Katy, Beaumont, The Woodlands, Tyler and Kingwood. Call for current schedule and to make an appointment. See ad page 11.

WELLNESS INSTITUTE JOYCE LONG’S DETOX LYMPHATIC WELLNESS INSTITUTE SINCE 1989

HOLISTIC NUTRITIONIST/ MEDICAL INTUITIVE LAZELLE BRADLEY

THERMOGRAPHY

ORGANIC RESORT & SPA DEER LAKE LODGE AND SPA 10500 Deer Lake Lode Rd. Montgomery Tx 77316 936-647-1383 www.deerlakelodge.com

All natural, organic, resort and spa. Semi-fast jucing cleanse, raw food classes, yoga, life enhancement classes, and a variety of natural spa and salon services. See ad on page 2.

1308 James Street , Rosenberg,TX, 77471 281-232-7336 • 281-344-0095 www.JoyceLong.biz

Colon Hydrotherapy with M.D. Prescription Yours or Ours, Lymphatic Drainage m,massage & Facials, Infra Red Sauna, Ion Cleanse Hand and Foot Baths, Chinese Cupping Massage, Therapeutic Massage ME # 0170 and Reflexology.

Our knowledge and services are equal to European Health Facilities where you can Detoxify and Rejuvenate. The treatments are specifically designed towards improving that vital bond between mind and body. Your protocol is individualized just for you.

RECYCLING SERVICES RECYCLE4U

HOMEOPATHY AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream 973-715-9097 www.healnbloom.com

Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease joint and muscular aches and pains from sciatica, gout, arthritis, neuralgia, fibromyalgia and more.

Starting at $7 for a 2oz. jar. All natural ingredients! Refer a friend and get 10% off your purchase.

Read what people are saying about Aunt Alberta’s Remedy at our website.

Houston’s PREMIER recycling pick-up service!

832-519-8748 info@recycle4u.us www.recycle4u.us

Earn cash for recyclables with Recycle4U. Can and bottle recycling drives!

Plus, we collect paper, cardboard, plastic, cans and glass from homes, businesses and events!

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