Natural Awakenings Houston March 2017 by Holistic Choice Publishing/Natural Awakenings Houston

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feel good â&#x20AC;˘ live simply â&#x20AC;˘ laugh more

Healthy Eat For Natural FATS Wellness Remedies

Boost Brain Health and Metabolism

How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

Herbs and More to Help an Itchy Pet

March 2017 | Houston-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com natural awakenings

March 2017

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

natural awakenings

March 2017

natural awakenings

March 2017

letterfrompublishers

reetings! Spring is here, folks! The live oak in the back yard is dropping its leaves by the bushel basket full. The plum tree in the front yard is starting to bloom. Cindy and I have raised the garden bed and planted in early greens. People are enjoying sitting and dining outside again and for many of us, it’s seasonal allergy time again. This month’s theme is food sensitivity. I remember back in the day, people either didn’t have as many food sensitivities or maybe we had them but they went undiagnosed and so untreated. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were the school sack lunch staple but now many schools have banned peanut products all together because they can cause life threatening allergic reactions in some students. This month’s issue has several informative articles to help you deal with food sensitivity without just cutting things out of your diet. With the mild March weather, it’s a great time to enjoy the many things there are to do around the Houston area. Be sure to check out the calendar listings and the event ads in this month’s magazine. When you buy your ticket if there is a Natural Awakenings discount code, but sure to use it. If not, be sure to let them know that you found out about the event in Natural Awakenings magazine. If you enjoy this month’s magazine be sure to “Like” us on Facebook and review us on Yelp. If you are a person who prefers to read on your electronic device, subscribe to Natural Awakenings Houston’s digital edition either by going to our website and filling out the “Subscribe” form or texting NAHTX to 66866. Until next month…

contact us Natural Awakenings 448 West 19th Street #419 Houston, TX 77008 Phone: 713-927-6540 Fax: 713-880-9979 Natural Awakenings Team PUBLISHERS

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

FREELANCE WRITERS Barbara Silberg • Jo Neil Norcini Carrie Harmon • Cherie Ray •

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NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com © 2017 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

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

contents 6

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.

6 newsbriefs 7 businessbriefs

8 refreshingrecipe

How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

10 healthbriefs

by Kathleen Barnes

13 globalbriefs

20 SHOULD YOU AND

YOUR FAMILY RECEIVE

24 consciouseating A CHIROPRACTIC CHECK-UP? 26 wisewords Discover the Truth 30 naturalpet

32 farmers'markets

33 calendar

21 GLUTEN FREE Is That For Me? by Megan Magill

38 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 Sales@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month..

23 IGNITE YOUR LIFE Meditate Each Morning by Sarah Gish

24 THUMBS-UP ON FATS Good Fat Doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Make Us Fat by Judith Fertig

26 DR. JOSEPH MERCOLA On Simple Steps To Well-Being by Judith Fertig

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month..

28 SILENCING

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.

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

about Chiropractic for All Ages by Dr. Jackie St.Cyr

28 healthykids

16 FEARLESS EATING

CYBERBULLIES

How to Defuse Bad Actors by April Thompson

30 NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies by Sandra Murphy

natural awakenings

30 March 2017

newsbriefs

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

ince its beginnings in 1905, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church has been a place where people meet God. The St. Paul’s community today remains deeply committed to providing spiritual leadership for the City of Houston. Amid growth and change, our mission has remained the same: St. Paul’s United Methodist Church is a sacred space in the heart of Houston where people seek, find, and respond to God’s love and grace. We are excited for you to connect with our community of faith. You will find information about the many ministries of St. Paul's on our website and in the Natural Awakenings calendars. We hope you'll respond to the Spirit leading you to connect and grow with us.

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004. 713528-0527. stpaulshouston.org. See ad on page 42.

Thermography Is Health Discovery

After Clearing

Before Clearing

Cardiovascular * Breast * Thyroid * Hormonal * Digestive * Diabetes * TMJ Thermal Imaging Services 713-621-4406 www.ThermalImagingTexas.com 6

Houston

The Reconnection

Book Online

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

r. Eric Pearl, author of The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself, demystifies the healing process. He teaches others (90,000 and counting) how to activate and use what he refers to as an all-inclusive spectrum of healing frequencies. “Reconnection teaches people how to transcend the ego and its judgment, and reach a state of non-judgment observation,” explains Pearl. “Many of the individuals I have taught describe their experience simply as an internal activation of an advanced level of consciousness, in which awareness allows the perception of a multidimensional universe.” Pearl posits that as part of our growth as human beings, stating, “We not only discover that we have become more, we understand that we can’t stand in fear, lack and limitation, and we can only offer ourselves as a vessel for healing for ourselves and others when we reside in oneness and love.” Pearl believes that it is part of everyone’s life journey to discover that they are an empty vessel, born to be filled with spirit. He advises, “By letting go of beliefs that block our ability to deeply understand this, we can harmonically converge with the lives of others at the level where we are all energy, as physics indicates.” For more information on the Online Level I Course and Integrated Combinations with Live & In-Person Level II schedules, visit ReconnectiveHealing.com. Mention the promotional code word AWAKE and receive a 20% discount. See ad, page 2.

businessbriefs IEL Institute Level III: Crystal Therapy & Sound Vibration Medicine

rystal Therapy is a one day workshop on March 25th taught by Chris Carpentier as part of the IEL Program and will build credits toward the Level IV Advanced Energy Intuitive Certification. This part of the program has a heavy focus on the teachings of Dr. Marcel Vogel and his methods of using fine cut crystals as an energy device. As an IBM scientist, Dr. Vogel pioneered crystal cutting technology that is still used today. You will have a chance to experience the crystal release technique developed by Marcel Vogel to create movement around deep-seated emotional issues. This powerful method uses breath, intention, and crystals to deliver energetic shifts in the human body. You will learn how to clear, charge and use crystals. This section is for those looking to learn and have an experience with crystal energy movement, or those interested in adding the modality to their current practice. It is also a lot of fun to experience. Sound Vibration Medicine, a one day event on March 26th, will be focused on sound vibrations and how they affect the human body. We will look at the history of sound used for healing in ancient times, with a focus on modern technologies using sound to support wellness. There will be a demonstration of sound entrainment, with the use of sound to clear the chakras, endocrine glands, and energetic blocks. Sound vibrations has been proven to help minimize the effects of depression, anxiety, fatigue, tinnitus, and a range of emotional issues. We will also discuss how 4,000-year-old Chinese technology can be used to clear and balance the energy centers of human body. The class will include a hands-on application, for those interested in learning more about crystal singing bowls. This experiential workshop is a must for those interested in energy healing and shamanism. Crystal Therapy and Sound Vibration Medicine are part of the IRL certification program but each class may be taken separately for personal growth and development. You do not need to have taken the previous classes in this series. Classes will be held at The Spectrum Center in The Preserve on March 26 from 10 am to 5 pm. Visit the website to register or for more information. Chris is available for one-onone instruction. Spectrum Center. 20160 N. Loop W #205, Houston, TX 77008. To register, call or email 713-303-7107 chriscarpentier333@gmail.com or register online at Chris-carpentier.com. Early Bird Registration $149. At the door $175. See ad on page 20. AVAILABLE IN: ■ CAPSULES ■ CONCENTRATES ■ SPRAYS ■ TOPICALS

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lex Atuesta learned the business working with his father in Colombia. After relocating in Houston, he purchased the Factory Eyeglass Outlet from the original owner in 2011. Factory Eyeglass Outlet specializes in sportswear, premium sunglasses and eyewear. They do their own lens cutting in-house and feature both premium Zeise lenses and generic lenses. The premium eyewear is 20-30% off list prices and their generic lenses are only $99. Alex also does eyeglass repair. Clients receive oneon-one service, a warranty and lifetime adjustments. They accept cash, credit card and most insurance. Conveniently located on the Katy Freeway, stop by Factory Eyeglass Outlet the next time you need new eyeglasses or need your old ones repaired. Factory Eyeglass Outlet, 7921 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024. 713-468-5665. factoryfineeyewear.com. See ad, page 42.

When The Inner Light Is On, EVERYTHING IS CLEAR True happiness & true freedom are already within us. However, our perceptions & holdings block us from living with it. Realize the source of these blocks to live truly happy… anywhere, anytime, always.

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Universal Door Meditation Center 281-565-9718 • UniversalDoor.org 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498 March 2017

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1 onion, sliced and lightly browned prior 1 carrot, grated Handful mushrooms, sliced in half, if large 1 courgette, sliced 1 /2 capsicum, sliced 1 tbs each; sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds 1–2 cloves garlic, diced finely 1 /3 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 onion, thinly sliced Several pieces, silver beet, spinach OR cabbage, thinly sliced Walnuts decorated on top (optional, yet delicious) Fresh herbs i.e. basil (preferably), marjoram, thyme OR dried mixed herbs

Home-made Salsa

Sauté, 1 onion and 2 cloves garlic; diced. Add a couple of tomatoes and fresh basil, previously blended. Simmer, for about 10 mins or use uncooked. Add your own seasonings!

Pizza Dough

1 3/4 cups GF Flour Mix, in Desserts 4 tbs extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp lemon 1 tsp sea salt and cold water to mix

Mix all ingredients to form the Pizza Dough. Knead slightly, roll out and cut into 2 pieces. Fold each piece in half and place in the fridge for 20 mins or so. Bring out and re-roll to fit pizza tray. If dough crumbles a little when lifting, place pieces into tray and press in. Prepare pizza bases (makes 2 average), as above and place onto 2 greased (with olive oil) oven trays. Preheat the oven, to around 200ºC. Cover the base with the Home-made Salsa. Add most of the herbs, onion (previously sautéed) and garlic on top, then layer the carrot, silver beet, mushrooms, courgette and capsicum. Pour a little olive oil over the top and sprinkle with the seeds/ nuts/herbs etc. A little sprinkled salt and pepper adds flavor. Bake about 20–25 mins. Just keep checking to see if the vegies are golden brown and the crust is not too crispy. Slightly crunchy is good and check to make sure center is cooked, depending on the size of your pizza. Pour on remaining olive oil and enjoy. Other recipes can be found in the new book Fresh Cuisine Recipe Book by Amanda Sloan for sale on Amazon Book & Apple ibooks. Amazon.com/dp/1533205019 or itunes.apple.com/us/book/x/id/1126779247

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Harness Prana and get

Energized!

with Master Stephen Co!

Houston Introductory Lectures in April 4-6, 2017

The Miracle of Experience the Healing Self Healing & Crystals, Gemstones Powers of the “I Am” Recharging through & Pranic Healing® within you the 11 Chakras April 4th | 7pm-9pm April 5th | 7pm-9pm April 6th | 7pm-9pm The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, TX 77004 Suggested Donations of $10 toward Health Museum

Shri Krishna Vrundavana 10223 Synott Rd, Sugar Land, TX 77498

Nia Moves Yoga Studio 508 Pecore St, Houston, TX 77009

Suggested Donation $10

$10 tickets online/ $15 at door

Full Training Workshops in Houston! April 22-23 - MCKS Pranic Healing® April 22-23 - MCKS Pranic Crystal Healing® April 24 - MCKS Achieving Oneness with the Higher Soul

www.masterstephenco.com natural awakenings

March 2017

healthbriefs HTU/Shutterstock.com

No Benefit to Cutting Fat in Cheese

Yeko Photo Studio/Shutterstock.com

nyone that has struggled to reduce their intake of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) may have considered avoiding saturated fat in their diets, although the latest meta-study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine now refutes this. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen, in Denmark, conducted a test to determine if consuming low-fat versus regular cheeses impacts LDL cholesterol levels. The study divided 139 people into three groups. One ate regular fat cheese, one consumed reduced-fat cheese and one didn’t eat any cheese at all for 12 weeks. Both LDL and high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol) levels were tested at the beginning and end of the period. Researchers found no significant difference in the LDL levels of any of the groups and no difference between the HDL levels of the reduced-fat and regular cheese groups, suggesting that consuming low-fat versions has no measurable metabolic benefit. An increase in HDL levels among those that abstained from eating cheese altogether was noted.

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Kids Going Online at Bedtime Sleep Poorly

new study from King’s College London has found that children’s use of electronic devices close to bedtime can reduce their chances of a good night’s sleep. Researchers examined 20 existing studies encompassing 125,000 children between the ages of 6 and 19. They found that youngsters using a device within 90 minutes of falling asleep had an increased likelihood of poor and inadequate sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. Study author Ben Carter, Ph.D., says, “Sleep is an often undervalued, but important part of children’s development, with a regular lack of sleep causing a variety of health problems.” These can include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, reduced immune function and poor diet. Poor food choices and excessive eating can start young, as illustrated in a study from Colorado University, in Boulder, which found a link between sleep deprivation and poor diet choices in preschool children. The Colorado study followed five girls and five boys, ages 3 and 4, that were regular afternoon nappers. They were deprived of their naps for one day, during which their food and beverage consumption was monitored and compared with their choices on a day when their sleep routine remained intact. During the sleep-deprived day, the children ate 20 percent more calories than usual and their diet consisted of 25 percent more sugar and 26 percent more carbohydrates.

The FiveSecond Rule Debunked

he five-second rule is a belief that food that falls to the floor can be safely eaten as long as it’s picked up quickly. Researchers from Rutgers University, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, sought to test its veracity. Four different food items were tested, including watermelon, bread and butter, plain bread and gummy candy, using four different surfaces— stainless steel, ceramic tile, wood and carpet. Each surface was contaminated by bacteria and completely dry before the scientists dropped each item for one second, five, 30 and 300 seconds. A total of 128 separate scenarios were repeated 20 times each and 2,560 measurements were taken and analyzed for contamination. The results proved that longer contact time resulted in more bacterial contamination, but there were also cases of instantaneous contamination, which disproves the five-second rule. The wet surface of a watermelon yielded the most contamination and gummy candy the least. The surface tests yielded surprising results, with carpet transferring significantly fewer bacteria than tile and stainless steel, while wood floors exhibited varied results.

esearchers from Tianjin Medical University, in China, have discovered that regularly taking docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) improves brain function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. A total of 219 adults over the age of 65 participated in the randomized, double-blind, 12-month trial. Half of the subjects were given two grams of this omega-3 fatty acid daily, while the others received a placebo. The researchers measured cognitive function, including a full-scale intelligence quotient (IQ) test and two IQ subtests which serve as indicators of both short and long-term memory. The tests were administered after six months and again after 12 months. The DHA group showed a 10 percent higher IQ than the placebo group. There were also significant increases in both IQ subtests and brain hippocampus volume in the DHA group. Decreased hippocampus volume is a primary indicator of Alzheimer’s disease.

Wheezing Toddlers Prone to Food Allergies

leungchopan/Shutterstock.com

Joe Belanger/Shutterstock.com

Naeblys/Shutterstock.com

DHA Boosts Elder Brain Function

esearchers in Singapore studied the relationship between eczema and wheezing in babies and food allergies in toddlers. They collected data from 849 children that had completed skin prick testing for inhalant and food allergies, including eggs, peanuts and cow’s milk at 18 months and 36 months of age. The resulting data were compared to information obtained from questionnaires administered to the children’s mothers at several intervals throughout their first three years of life to determine the prevalence of allergic diseases such as eczema and rhinitis, along with wheezing. The researchers found children that experienced eczema or wheezing within their first 18 months were more likely to have an allergy at 36 months. Occurrences of eczema or wheezing after youngsters were 18 months old appeared to have no notable impact on the later allergy skin test results.

natural awakenings

March 2017

Tur� Your Passion Into a Business

Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!*

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can empower yourself and others to create a healthier world while working from your home earning an income doing something you love! No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

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

Botanical Breakthrough

Oregano Oil Proves a Safe Antibiotic for Poultry

Bukhanovskyy/Shutterstock.com

In many large commercial chicken farms, the animals are fed antibiotics to keep them healthy and fight off infections. But due to consumer demand, McDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has eliminated antibiotics used in human medicine from its entire restaurant chicken supply. Meanwhile, a farm in Pennsylvania owned by Scott Sechler is among the first to rely solely on a mix of oregano oil and cinnamon in the treatment and care of its chickens. In addition to being completely natural, oregano oil supplies the chickens with health advantages, producing a much higher quality of natural chicken in a far more humane method than that attained using antibiotics. Like antibiotics, the oil assists the chickens in battling any infections, reducing the number of birds lost to disease. Bob Ruth, president of another Pennsylvania farming business, has been testing oregano on his pigs for six months to see if it can outperform prescription antibiotics. Related problems arise when animals live in dirty conditions, making them more susceptible to infections and viruses, which can also be triggered by insufficient cleansing of slaughterhouses that must be hosed down and completely sanitized after each act of butchery. He thinks that drugs should not be a requirement if the farmers keep things tidy.

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March 2017

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Bag Ban

African Aquaculture a Success Fish farming has become a way for many Africans to beat poverty and hunger. Hillary Thompson, who lives in Milton Park, a low-density area in the Zimbabwean capital of Harare, says, “For more than a decade, fish farming has become a hobby that has earned me a fortune.” He has been able to acquire properties that he rents out as one of many residents that have profited through fish farming. In many African communities, swimming pools and backyards have been converted into small-scale fish farming areas. Faced with nutritional deficits, some Africans have taken up the practice to improve their diets. In Zimbabwe, an estimated 22,000 people are involved in fish farming, according to the ministry of agriculture. Behind the success of many of them stands the Aquaculture Zimbabwe Trust, established in 2008 to mobilize resources for the sustainable development of environmentally friendly fisheries nationally. Across Africa, fishing provides direct incomes for about 10 million people and provides food for 200 million more. Source: FarmAfrica.org

California’s ongoing ban on single-use plastic carryout bags, approved by 52 percent of voters, is setting a notable precedent for other states. A coalition of environmental groups, grocers and others are collaborating, and Mark Murray, of Californians Against Waste, welcomes elimination of the 25 million plastic bags that pollute California every day, threatening wildlife. In 2007, San Francisco first banned plastic shopping bags, setting off a movement that led nearly half the state, including its biggest cities, to do the same. Although the legislature passed a statewide ban on plastic bags two years ago, paper bags are still for sale at grocery stores and other outlets for a nominal fee.

Raw Hide

A Veggie Leather Alternative Researchers from Iowa State University have developed a new form of synthetic leather using cellulose fibers taken from kombucha tea, along with vinegar and sugar, made in shallow plastic tanks. When a colony of bacteria and yeast is added, the material grows on the top of the liquid’s surface, where it can be harvested and dried. The researchers have successfully used the material to make prototype garments, including shoes and a vest. It’s 100 percent biodegradable, so when the fabric gets wet, it softens and becomes less durable; in very low temperatures, it can become brittle. Young-A Lee, Ph.D., associate professor of apparel, merchandising and design at Iowa State University, in Ames, says, “Fashion, to most people, is an ephemeral expression of culture, art and technology, manifesting itself in pracical form. Fashion companies keep producing new materials and clothing, from season to season, year to year, to fulfill consumers’ desires and needs. Think about where these items eventually go. They will take up tremendous underground spaces of the Earth, like other trash.” Spanish designer Carmen Hijosa has created Piñatex, another faux-leather product made from pineapple leaf fibers as a more sustainable and cruelty-free alternative. She acted after seeing how leather tanneries operate. Igor Gorelchenkov/Shutterstock.com

Fish Story

Pavel Kubarkov/Shutterstock.com

JMArnold/Shutterstock.com

California Outlaws Single-Use Plastic Bags

Source: News.iastate.edu

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such a sudden strong allergic reaction that it results in anaphylaxis, which makes breathing passages swell shut. If untreated, such extreme allergies can even prove fatal, which is why people with severe allergies carry the antidote epinephrine (adrenaline) with them. Food allergies are diagnosed by blood and/or skin testing under the supervision of a medical professional, usually a doctor of medicine, osteopathy or naturopathy. Effective treatment, which must be customized to the individual, typically entails avoidance of allergy triggers. Fortunately, food allergies that trigger such a dramatic, fast, immune response are fairly rare, particularly in adults.

FEARLESS EATING How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

Some More Common Issues

by Kathleen Barnes

omplaints of digestive upsets, brain fog, headaches, relentless food cravings and unrelieved stress appear to be at epidemic levels these days. “These symptoms may be part of newfound awareness of the wideranging and seemingly unrelated health problems caused by food sensitivities and intolerances, which are different from food allergies,” explains microbiologist Kiran Krishnan, from Chicago.

Food Allergies

Food allergies seem to be plaguing

America’s children now more than in the past. We know that peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, once standard lunchbox fare, have become a no-no. They’re often outlawed by schools to protect the students that experience extreme peanut allergies. The symptoms of food allergies in adults and children, often including hives, rashes and itching, can range from being annoying to life threatening. For extremely FREEsensitive Monthly people, the AFFIRMATION tiniest fragment of aGathering! peanut or a bee 24th 7:00 PM – gloves 8:30 PMor certain sting,June exposure to latex Spectrum Center Westheimer medications like 4100 penicillin can cause

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“Most of what we’re seeing today is an uptick in food sensitivities and intolerances, terms that are often used interchangeably to describe foods that are not digested well and can challenge the immune system,” says Solana Beach, California, nutrition and fitness expert JJ Virgin, author of The Virgin Diet. Newark, Delaware, medical doctor and allergist Junfang Jiao, Ph.D., attests to increased levels of testing for food allergies and sensitivities in recent years. “I can’t say there are more allergies or sensitivities, but more doctors are aware of the wide-ranging symptoms and more people are getting referred for testing,” he reports.

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Many experts agree on at least one underlying cause behind the trend—a widely studied condition called leaky gut, characterized by intestinal permeability. Microscopic pinholes in an unhealthy small intestine can allow undigested nutrients to pass through intestinal walls, triggering mild immune responses, inflammation and, potentially, the onset of some diseases. Theories of what causes leaky gut are diverse and sometimes contradictory but experts recommend consulting a medical professional if one suffers from food sensitivities. Each individual is unique, so there is no “blanket solution” for everyone. Dysbiosis: Leaky gut is often caused by an imbalance in “good” and “bad” intestinal bacteria, sometimes called dysbiosis, says Krishnan. It can be brought on by the use of antibiotics, antibiotic residues in meats and dairy products or a diet high in sugar and processed foods. Most interesting, he believes, is the discovery that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Monsanto’s weed killer Roundup used on genetically modified

(GMO) corn and soy crops, contributes to dysbiosis, as verified by Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists in a study published in Interdisciplinary Toxicology. They concluded with a plea to world governments to reconsider policies regarding the safety of glyphosate residues in foods. GMOs: While this issue has been less widely analyzed, a 1996 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that the Bacillus thuringiensis toxin added to Monsanto’s GMO corn crops to kill pests is not destroyed during human digestion. Danish researchers at the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University suggested it may damage cells of the intestinal lining. Gluten: “Gluten causes leaky gut,” says Port Jefferson, New York, naturopathic doctor Doni Wilson, author of The Stress Remedy, voicing one side of the controversy based on her review of scientific literature. She’s concluded, “Whether you are sensitive to it or not, gluten increases the production of zonulin, which can result in damage to intestinal walls and cause the cells on the outside of the intestines to set off an

immune response to anything that passes through. In this condition, what we’re eating—cheese, milk, eggs, corn, soy—is leaking through the gut lining, triggering an immune response and potentially creating multiple food sensitivities.” Wilson also notes that in her clinical experience, only about half of her patients with gluten sensitivities complain of digestive issues. “I’ve found that gluten causes the immune cells on the outside of the small intestine to affect the nervous system, causing headaches, anxiety, depression and insomnia,” she says. Her findings are backed by research from the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Celiac Research and Italy’s University of Catania. The same researchers confirm that non-celiac gluten sensitivity or intolerance can also foster depression; a University of Cincinnati study published in the journal Headache links gluten and headaches. Other proteins in wheat can be problematic, advises Fiona McCulloch, a Toronto doctor of naturopathy, citing a study presented at the annual European Gastroenterology Conference, in Vienna, last October. The report showed that a

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family of proteins called amylase trypsin inhibitors can lead to the development of inflammation in tissues beyond the gut, including the lymph nodes, kidneys, spleen and brain. Glyphosate residues can be a factor in gluten intolerance. Although wheat crops produced in the U.S. are not yet genetically modified, many non-organic wheat crops are sprayed with glyphosate to promote rapid drying, according to the Environmental Working Group. Inadequate digestive enzymes: Lactose intolerance is the most common result of missing digestive enzymes like lactase, according to the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota. Avoiding milk products may relieve digestive distress for some.

most common food sensitivity triggers: gluten-containing foods (largely wheat), dairy, eggs, soy, corn, peanuts, sugar and artificial sweeteners. “When I say eliminate these foods 100 percent, I mean it,” cautions Virgin. “You need to give your immune system at least that much time to cool off.” She adds, “You can do anything such as this for just three weeks.” Virgin also recommends the elimination diet for weight loss because it helps overcome food cravings triggered by the immune system response and leptin resistance, leveraging the hormone that turns off the body’s hunger signals, a finding confirmed by independent studies performed by Sweden’s Lund University and Italy’s University of Palermo. She’s also documented other positive effects through her own research and experience with participants in her programs, including improvements in energy, focus, joint pain, skin clarity and bloating, all in the designated short time frames.

Eliminate Items, Then Challenge

Most experts believe the easiest way to deal with food sensitivities is to stop eating the food in question. The so-called “elimination and challenge” diet, which has been in use for decades, is effective, free and addresses the foods responsible for common food intolerances, says Virgin. Simply avoid the food of concern completely for at least three weeks, then eat a small amount of it and catalog and the results. For some people, it may only take a couple of hours for symptoms to return after eating a piece of bread, cup of milk, an egg or bit of tofu. Virgin’s seven-food challenge is a bit more rigorous, but improves feelings of general well-being so readily that many people don’t even want to bring back the eliminated foods because they feel so much better, she says. Her threeweek diet completely eliminates the

Other Approaches

People with food sensitivities may be able to tolerate occasional indulgences in their trigger foods once they’ve healed their digestive systems, notes Krishnan. Probiotics can help, especially those encapsulated in spores so they can pass

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through the barrage of stomach acid and reach the small intestine where they are most needed. Krishnan’s research, to be published this spring, showed that half of otherwise healthy young people suffering from leaky gut had a dramatic reduction of symptoms by taking a spore-forming probiotic Bacillus indicus product for 30 days. After the healing period, sensitive people may be able to eat small amounts of certain foods with the assistance of dietary aids and supplements, adds McCulloch. Get dirty: Johns Hopkins University research has shown that kids raised in an excessively hygienic environment experience much higher rates of allergies and sensitivities. University of Wisconsin researchers found that youths growing up in households that are less than obsessively sanitary among four or five other people and dogs will strengthen and challenge their immune systems as they mature. Adults need to challenge their immune systems, too, says Krishnan. Eat organic and fermented foods: A widely varied diet helps spread out the immune system challenges of trigger foods. Organic foods don’t contain glyphosate and other potentially harmful chemicals; fermented foods contain digestive enzymes. Eat prebiotics: Raw onions, garlic, leeks and asparagus are prebiotics. They help feed probiotic bacteria and improve gut health. Block sensitivity triggers: Many people with lactose intolerance are able to consume dairy products if they use lactase, the enzyme that helps digest lactose. Similarly, some people with gluten intolerance find they can eat moderate amounts of wheat products with protein supplements like lectin, carb blockers and digestive enzymes that help break down the gluten molecules, according to Virgin. Supplements that might help: Glucomannan (konjac or elephant yam fiber) contributes to a feeling of fullness and stabilizes blood sugar, says McCulloch. She also recommends the amino acid L-glutamine and digestive enzymes to assist in gut healing. Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

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March 2017

Should you and your family receive a chiropractic check-up? Discover the Truth about Chiropractic for All Ages by Dr. Jackie St.Cyr, Network Spinal Analysis Chiropractor

hiropractic for me and my family? Why? We don’t have back or neck pain.” If you are wondering about the answer to this question, you’ll want to read on. As chiropractors, we often encounter those who understand the importance of regular exams for their entire family’s eyes, ears, nose, throat, hearing, and teeth, but who overlook routine family spinal check-ups. In fact, they could be the most important checkups you and your family can receive. As a health conscious person, you want the best for you and your family and no doubt wonder if you are all as healthy as you could be. Several factors determine everyone’s overall health. These include: diet, exercise, proper rest, emotional and spiritual support, and a properly functioning nervous system. A major component of health is the communication between your brain and body. This vital link controls the growth, repair, and function of every tissue and organ. The spinal cord sends messages from the brain throughout the body via billions of nerves. Interference (nerve pressure or irritation) places the body in a state of disharmony. This can lead to decreased immune function and sickness. Starting with the birthing process itself, our bodies are

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subjected to many spinal traumas. Even the most “natural” of births can cause stress and strain to the tiny developing spine. This initial damage can be compounded when the child develops proper head support, learns to sit up, to crawl, and to walk. During this time of rapid spinal growth, any tiny bump or fall can cause subluxation and unexplained health problems. The home is the primary place where a young child receives spinal injuries. A study, conducted by the National Safety Council, discovered that nearly 50% of children fall headfirst from a high place (changing table, bed, etc.) during their first year of life. Many injuries from these falls go undetected and unfortunately, although no immediate symptoms may appear, spinal health can be compromised. Ear infections, asthma, colic, ADD/hyperactivity, bedwetting, learning disorders, and other health problems result from nervous system interference called the vertebral subluxation complex. Doctors of Chiropractic are the only healthcare professionals trained in the detection and correction of this problem. School is the most common place for accidents to occur for five to eighteen year olds. A study from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commissioner, revealed that almost a quarter of a million children under the age of 15 were treated for injuries related to playground equipment. The majority of these accidents are falls, and approximately 50% of all falls result in head and neck trauma. Bicycles are also a source of childhood trauma. Over 50,000 children per year are treated for head (not wearing a helmet) and neck trauma. Common childhood activities including surfing, skate boarding, water slides, horseback riding, and roller-skating are often associated with falls that can cause the spinal vertebrae to lose their normal motion and position. The delicate nerve tissue housed in these bones can be damaged, impairing the brain’s ability to control the associated tissues and organs. Children, adults and the elderly can all benefit from regular wellness care visits to a Doctor of Chiropractic.

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With appropriate chiropractic care, both old and new spinal problems can be located and corrected, restoring normal spinal and nervous system function. It’s never too late to gain a healthier spine! Many adult spinal problems actually began in childhood. If left uncorrected, childhood spinal problems may lead to more serious conditions later in life: “As the trunk is bent, so grows the tree.” Without a properly functioning spine and nervous system, true health is impossible to achieve. Maintaining your family’s spinal health is one of the greatest gifts you can provide for all of you. For this reason, families are receiving routine periodic chiropractic spinal check-ups. Today, many progressive consumers are choosing conservative chiropractic care, such as Network Spinal Analysis, to help maximize their own natural healing. Parents of children who receive regular chiropractic care often report that their kids seem healthier than other children; they get fewer colds and other childhood diseases. Adults and the elderly experiencing regular Network Care report improvement in all areas of life including decreased physical symptoms, more emotional and mental peace and overall improved quality of life. The Network approach to health is safe and effective for all ages. For these reasons and more, your Network Spinal Analysis Chiropractor may be your best family doctor! Many people feel encouraged to have a Network Chiropractor as part of their health professionals network. To discover more information and to schedule a Network Spinal Analysis check-up for your family, contact Dr. Jackie St.Cyr INNATE CHIROPRACTIC Healing Arts Center. Dr. Jackie St.Cyr has been a Board Certified Doctor of Chiropractic since 1995 and holds postgraduate education and certification in Network Spinal Analysis and Somato Respirator y Integration. Her practice and the INNATE CHIROPRACTIC Healing Arts Center is located at 230 Westcott St, Ste 220 in Houston, TX. For more information call 713-521-2104 or visit Dr. Jackie online at www.n8chiro.com. See ad on page 31.

Gluten Free. Is that for me? by Megan Magill

What is gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Why is it a bad thing?

Gluten is not inherently bad. Traditionally grown and harvested, heirloom varieties of gluten containing grains are extremely beneficial for your health and are a great part of a balanced diet. However, within the last 80 years or so, we have genetically modified wheat, barley, and rye grains to increase the gluten protein strand. The reason for genetically modifying these grains and more than doubling the gluten strand is to increase the yield, durability, and shelf life of the grain. But now, the gluten strand is so large that our bodies cannot adapt to this change natural awakenings

in such a short period of time. Our focus on producing quantity over quality is showing to have long-term negative effects on our health.

Eating traditionally

Traditionally, grains were soaked overnight or fermented before they were cooked and then eaten. This process helped to break down the grains and allowed them to be more easily digestible. Today we skip that step because it takes too much time. One other thing we don’t have the time for is chewing. I know you were told to “chew your food” as a child but chewing food is imperative to proper digestion. Grains and carbohydrates begin the digestion process in the mouth with maceration and combination with saliva. March 2017

If this step is brief or skipped, the next place the carbohydrates have to break down is in the small intestines. If you swallow whole pieces of food, this puts immense strain on your digestive system. Because gluten is larger than it has ever been, it is even more imperative that we use traditional methods when preparing these grains while take the time to properly chew our food.

What effect is gluten having on your health right now?

70% of your digestive system is "your gut" aka your small and large intestines. The walls of your gut are lined with millions of microvilli. Villi are little microscopic fingers responsible for absorbing all the nutrients your body digests. The finger shape increases the surface area in which nutrients can be absorbed. When gluten is introduced to your system, it acts like a rubber paste or glue in your gut. Its sticky nature coats all the villi and forces them to lay flat. With flattened villi, nutrients pass through your system without being properly absorbed. So if you are eating a healthy diet, gluten can actually be robbing you of the nutrients! Unless you have experimented in removing gluten from your diet, you might not know how it is affecting you. If you are intolerant to gluten, you might experience an uncomfortable stomachache when you reintroduce it. But those who have Celiac disease are effected on a much more serious level. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease which means your body attacks itself in an effort to get rid of a foreign invader. Autoimmune diseases can be cured through food and lifestyle changes but if you have celiac disease the first step is to completely eliminate gluten from your diet.

How to go GF?

I usually recommend for all of my clients to eliminate gluten from their diet when they are trying to heal any sort of ailment or disease. It usually takes 2 weeks for gluten to leave your system (remember it’s a thick sticky substance) and then an additional week for your body to repair and adapt to the new gut environment. After 3 weeks you will see and feel a big difference.

Most people say they feel cleaner and lighter inside. To make this transition as easy as possible take note of some of the gluten-containing foods that you eat on a daily basis: bagel, cereal, bread, pasta, beer, etc. Then, focus on what you can eat that is naturally gluten free: potatoes, rice, oats*, corn, quinoa, amaranth, wine, etc. *Oats are naturally gluten free but are usually processed in wheat plants so it’s important to make sure you eat oats free of gluten. Then, brainstorm ways you can put this plan into action. For example: rather than eating cereal or a bagel for breakfast, have a smoothie, eggs, or porridge. Instead of a sandwich for lunch, have a stew, salad, or rice with vegetables and meat, etc. This will also help you diversify the nutrients in your diet which is vital to your health! With any food elimination, it is important to stay ahead of your hunger to reduce cravings. Snacking on healthy food throughout the day and having meals prepared ahead of time can really help. And one tempting thing I would love for you to avoid these 3 weeks are GF packaged products: pastas, bread, cookies, crackers, etc. Even though many of these products are organic, they are still "packaged foods" and contain high levels of sugar and are highly processed. After 3 weeks of this gluten elimination, your cravings will have subsided and you may experience great side effects like more energy, less bloat, less joint pain and headaches, deeper sleep, and notice that you feel lighter! And remember not to focus on just what you can’t eat but what you can eat. Eating a variety of whole foods that are in season and come from the earth is the best thing you can do for vibrant health. Megan McGill is a Certified Natural Foods Chef and Holistic Health Coach who is a firm believer in food’s amazing ability to heal. As a new Houston resident, she is excited to share her passion for finding health and healing through the right combination of organic, local, seasonal food specifically tailored to your condition. To contact her or to learn more go to her website, chefmeganmagill.com.

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IGNITE YOUR LIFE “Meditate Each Morning” by Sarah Gish

was a kid when my parents took poet and counterculture guru Allen Ginsberg to NASA at his request. Dad was a German professor at the University of Houston and had invited Ginsberg to speak to the UH students following the success of his book Howl. I wasn’t invited to tag along on the car trip but years later, my dad recounted that Ginsberg sat lotus-style and chanted “Om” the entire way to and from Clear Lake – his way of elevating the energy surrounding the space program, something he looked upon as wasted government dollars. The mighty powers of meditation burned off Ginsberg’s anger before it even had a chance to lift off. “Meditate each morning.” is the third way to ignite your life in my “IGNITE YOUR LIFE!” art project and community campaign (www.IgniteYourOwnLife. com) and the word associated with this concept is “MEDITATE.” Meditation is powerful indeed: research has shown that meditating at least 12 minutes a day improves your memory and concentration and a consistent practice can cure a host of ills while improving brain activity, physical health, and spiritual connection. I specify morning meditation because for many of us, if we don’t get our meditation in first thing, it gets lost in the chaos of the day. Deepak Chopra encourages an “RPM” meditation practice: “Rise.

Pee. Meditate.” I find that meditating first thing in the morning sets the tone for the day and gives me a calm base to which I can return throughout the day. So how do you start this practice? If you wish, return to the wisdom of Allen Ginsberg. He’s got a hilarious video called “Do the Meditation Rock” -- “The first thing you do when you meditate is keep your spine, your backbone straight. Sit yourself down on a pillow on the ground or sit on a chair if the ground isn’t there. Follow your breath, right out of your nose, follow it out as far as it goes.” In my daily routine, I start out by ringing a bowl, finding my breath, and focusing on one word for 15. I then think of at least one person to pray for, one thing to be thankful for, one thing to let go of, and one person to forgive. I throw in a little journaling or an inspirational reading and then I’m done. Well-known Houston yogi Jennifer Buergermeister first fell in love with meditation when doing a silent retreat at which the Vipassanā method was taught – a method which focuses on the breath in a deep way. She learned it at the Dhamma Sirī Southwest Vipassanā Meditation Center (www.siri.dhamma.org), a place which offers free pay-it-forward retreats. If meditating in community (silent or not) is your thing, there are plenty of places to practice meditation in Houston. Tibetan Buddhist Center Dawn Mountain natural awakenings

(www.dawnmountain.org) has a full calendar of offerings including “Yoga for Meditators” and a group meditation on Sunday mornings and “Kind Mind, Happy Life” for kids 4-8 years old. The Health Museum (www.thehealthmuseum.org) offers mindfulness meditation classes for adults and kids 6-12 years old as a perfect way to connect the body’s physical, mental, and spiritual health. Micki Fine (www.livingmindfully.org) is our city’s mindfulness guru and she offers a regular schedule of classes and workshops and groups as well as free intro meditation sessions. And if you’d like to enjoy a silent retreat that’s perfect for intensive meditation, look into free overnight personal retreats at the Cenacle Retreat House (www.cenaclesisters.org) and the Ruah Spirituality Center at Villa de Matel (https://sistersofcharity. org/ruah-spirituality-center/). “Meditate each morning.” Is one of my twelve ways to ignite your life daily – ways that, if followed, will stave off depression, anxiety, loneliness, and isolation. Being ignited for your life does that. Sarah Gish is the founder of IGNITE YOUR LIFE. Igniteyourownlife.com and the publisher of GISH PICKS: Culture for Kids & Adults. Gishpicks.com. See ad on page 10.

How glorious a

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March 2017

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consciouseating

Thumbs-Up on Fats Good Fat Doesn’t Make Us Fat by Judith Fertig

n an era of too much information, the role of fats in our diet has been a victim of not enough information. Today’s turnaround in nutritional thinking acknowledges natural fats as being vital to heart health and weight loss.

to increase heart disease risk, overturning almost 60 years of accepted medical thought. The researchers analyzed data from 76 studies involving more than 600,000 people and found that those that ate the most saturated, or “bad”, fat did not show a higher risk of cardiovascular Heart Health Benefit disease compared with those that ate A recent metastudy in the Annals of the least. Note that processed trans fats Internal Medicine, a journal of the remain a villain, still deemed a risk to American College of Physicians, con- heart health per the metastudy. Experience Your Special Delivery cluded that saturated fat not appear Intimate The misleading information began In does A Comfortable Setting

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in the 1950s, when Physiologist Ancel Keys, Ph.D., discovered a correlation between diets high in saturated fats and higher cholesterol levels. Soon, the lowfat diet was born. In 2000, further research introduced the concepts of good and bad fats. More recent analysis confirmed this finding with the refinement that saturated fats increase both types of cholesterol. However, the latest research from the journal BMJ shows that saturated fat does not increase the number of LDL, or “bad”, particles, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. Instead, it makes existing LDL particles larger, a fairly benign situation in regard to such disease.

Weight Loss Benefit

Fat doesn’t even make you fat, claims Mark Hyman, a well-known medical doctor in Lenox, Massachusetts, and author of Eat Fat, Get Thin: Why the Fat We Eat Is the Key to Sustained Weight Loss and Vibrant Health. “The theory that all calories have the same impact on your weight and metabolism remains one of the most persistent nutrition myths,” says this practitioner of functional medicine who points out that we’ve been sidetracked by wrong thinking. “Eating fat can make you lean. Healthy cell walls made from high-quality fats are better able to metabolize insulin, which keeps blood sugar better regulated. Without proper blood sugar control, the body socks away fat for a rainy day. The right fats also increase fat burning, diminish hunger and reduce fat storage,” he notes. Whole30, a 30-day diet revolving around clean eating, also emphasizes healthy fats. Devised in 2009 by Dallas Hartwig, a functional medicine practi-

tioner and certified sports nutritionist, and Melissa Hartwig, a certified sports nutritionist, the program aims to reduce inflammation, detoxify the body and reset metabolism. The Salt Lake City, Utah, authors of the New York Times bestselling The Whole30 recommend healthy fats to keep us full and rev up metabolism. Recommended healthy fats include coconut milk and oil, avocados, olive oil, organic ghee (clarified butter) and raw nuts. Josh Axe, a natural medicine practitioner and clinical nutritionist in Nashville, Tennessee, recommends the healthy fats contained in avocados, organic butter and ghee from grass-fed cows and goats, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds and flax seeds. “Butter’s experiencing a comeback as a healthy fat as its benefits become more widely known,” says Axe. “The omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in butter help the brain function properly and improve skin health.” Ghee, an ancient Indian version of butter, is lactose- and casein-free, while being loaded with fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, says Axe. These vitamins are best absorbed by the body when they’re in a fat substance and then stored in the gastrointestinal tract, keeping metabolism and digestion on track, he notes. Ghee’s high level of vitamin K2, best known as a natural blood coagulator, “also helps strengthen bones, while the fatty acids found in it improve digestion and reduce inflammation.”

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Healthy Levels of Fat

“If you’re active, about 40 percent of your calories should come from carbohydrates, another 30 percent from protein and the other 30 percent from fat in general,” says Axe, adding that this has the added benefit of helping prevent arteriosclerosis. “Some people may consume a greater percentage of healthy fats if the goal is to become a fat burner.” “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss and health,” Hyman reminds us. “Low-carb, higher-fat diets work for most people, but for some, they may not be optimal in the long term.” Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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Dr. Joseph Mercola on

SIMPLE STEPS TO WELL-BEING by Judith Fertig

octor of Osteopathic Medicine Joseph Mercola has practiced as a boardcertified family physician for more than 30 years. His educational website, Mercola.com, has been the most visited natural health site for the past 12 years, with 12 million unique visitors each month. His three New York Times bestsellers include Effortless Healing.

With today’s overload of conflicting health information—and the temptation to selfdiagnose—how can we accurately assess our status in terms of optimal wellness? One of the major principles I strongly embrace is to listen to your body and adjust your lifestyle based on the feedback it’s providing you. The seven clinically proven gauges I advise you to assess now and continue to monitor every six months or so are fasting insulin level (normal is less than five micro-international units per milliliter of blood; ideal is less than three); vitamin D level (normal is 40 to 60 nanograms per milliliter); waist-to-hip ratio (ideal for men, 0.8; for women, 0.7); body fat percentage (fitness level for women is 21 to 24 percent; for men, 14 to 17 percent); HDL to total cholesterol ratio (ideally 24 to 30 percent or higher); blood pressure (ideal numbers are 120 over 80 systolic/diastolic without medication); and uric acid level (ideal is three to five milligrams per deciliter). It is important to get these levels checked, because it is impossible to know without testing.

In your opinion, what is the greatest health risk Americans face today and what can we do about it right now? I’m convinced that for the typical American, the most important health step to take is to stop drinking soda, sports drinks, fruit juices or artificially flavored and sweetened waters and replace them with pure water. Most people are now aware that sodas are laced with processed sugars like high-fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners, but many don’t know that their favorite sport and vitamin drinks contain these sweeteners plus a host of frightening extras, including toxic chemicals like chlorine, fluoride, phthalates, BPA [bisphenol A] and disinfection byproducts.

What role do carbohydrates play? Carbs are a far dirtier fuel than fat and generate far more reactive oxygen species than fat. Some 70 years of following low-fat diet recommendations has resulted in the vast majority of dieters losing the ability to burn fat as their primary fuel. One of the most powerful strategies to regain this ability is to start a practice of regular intermittent fasting, restricting your eating window to six to 14 hours a day and fast the rest of the day. Of course, you will want to replace a high net carb intake, or total carbs minus fiber, with healthy fats such as those in avocados, coconut oil, seeds and nuts. Avoid industrially processed omega-6 vegetable oils like corn, soy and canola.

Because an indoor, climate-controlled, sedentary lifestyle may lead to slowly developing chronic disease, what changes do you suggest we make? Spending time outside with bare feet in contact with the ground even for short periods can yield significant benefits. It’s even better to do it with the sun shining on your bare skin. The Earth is an abundant source of free electrons, and when the sun shines on your skin a vital biological circuit forms that helps transfer energy to water throughout the body, which serves as a cellular battery. Albert Einstein won a Nobel Prize for describing this process, called the photoelectric effect. Reducing the length of time sitting each day and regularly moving is even more important for most of us than getting regular exercise. A good rule of thumb is to stand up every 15 minutes or so.

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March 2017

Silencing Cyberbullies

SpeedKingz/Shutterstock.com

healthykids

How to Defuse Bad Actors by April Thompson

hether it’s a damaging rumor p o s t e d o n Fa c e b o o k , a humiliating photo shared on Instagram or a threatening text, cyberbullying is increasing among today’s youth. A 2015 Cyberbullying Research Center study of middle school students found that 43 percent had been targeted, while 15 percent admitted to being online bullies. Meanwhile, students, parents and teachers are

combating cyber-aggression with initiatives to make the phenomenon socially unacceptable in schools.

Grassroots Action

Tyler Gregory, 23, attended a small, insular high school in rural Ohio where bullying was problematic. As a senior with younger siblings approaching their high school years, he aimed to change the local culture

to make bullying uncool. Gregory decided to make a movie to submit to the NO BULL Challenge, a national organization that provides students a platform to develop and disseminate materials that spark dialogue about such troubling issues. Challenges ranged from teaching himself filmmaking and persuading students to participate to mustering the courage to present the project to his school. He achieved the transformation he sought, beginning with 70 students participating in his production. “I appealed to classmates by asking, ‘How do you want to be remembered? Why not choose to be viewed positively, as leaders?’” says Gregory, who later became a spokesperson for NO BULL Challenge. To date, the challenge has received 600 submissions, garnering 23 million impressions through digital and social media, the vehicles of cyberbullies. A recent graduate of Dayton, Ohio’s Wright State University, Gregory has spoken to about 45,000 students in 27 states in school assemblies. Nancy Willard, director of Embrace Civility in the Digital Age, headquartered in Creswell, Oregon, believes that such initiatives, which shift schools from punitive approaches to making bullying incompatible with accepted social norms, are the only way to bring lasting change. “We need to cultivate a climate where being hurtful is contrary to a school’s expressed values. Most young people don’t like to see their peers being hurtful and admire those that

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stand up to peers and have them make amends,” says Willard. The educator’s website, EmbraceCivility.org, offers free materials with concrete steps for students and teachers to foster positive school environments.

Protecting the Vulnerable

Cyberbullying isn’t limited to attacks on unpopular kids that lack satisfying peer relationships. It’s seven times more likely to occur between current or former friends and romantic partners than between strangers, according to a study led by Diane Felmlee, professor of sociology at Pennsylvania State University. Felmlee’s research further found that nonheterosexual youth are four times as likely as their heterosexual peers to be cyberbullied, while popular kids are also frequently targeted. Two social dynamics seem to be at work: “One involves individuals that violate social norms, such as LGBTQ youth, and the other revolves around status struggles,” reports Felmlee. “In

the latter case, bullies are vying for popularity, recognition and self-esteem. Those with higher social status may be attacked because they’re viewed as competition.” Cyberbullying’s impact can exceed face-to-face aggression, as offensive remarks can spread far and fast, and live online in perpetuity instead of fading away, observes Felmlee. Gregory adds that it can also affect students’ ability to learn when some skip school to avoid tormentors.

Helpful Responses

Most youths don’t report cyberbullying, feeling embarrassed, afraid the situation will get worse or doubtful of remedial action. “Schools need to step up their response to bullying, make it known that it won’t be tolerated, set clear policies and enforce them,” counsels Gregory. Because most bullied youths don’t speak up, parents need to communicate openly with kids and be aware of their online activities, advises Felmlee. Willard notes that it’s also important

to address the bullies themselves through understanding their motivation, and then persuading them to accept responsibility and take steps to rectify harm. “This should be about reparation, not punishment.” Gregory’s high school film assures bullies that it’s never too late to make amends. While it can be hard to stand up to bullies, caring peers can easily express support. “Bystanders have the power to change the atmosphere,” agrees Gregory. “Kindly approaching a student being picked on who may feel alone and ashamed goes further than most students realize.” Those affected by cyberbullying also can cut off their aggressors, suggests Gregory. “The ‘block’ button is powerful. Cyberbullies want to see a reaction. Blocking them from social media exchanges or texting takes away their power.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS

Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies

ather than routinely giving drugs to dogs and cats to relieve dry, itchy, skin or food allergies, consider more gentle natural alternatives. As with people, knowing what an animal is allergic to is key to finding the right remedy and preventing future outbreaks. With dogs, about 20 percent of itching and scratching can be attributed to food ingredients. Symptoms can show up as early as 5 months or as late as 12 years old, often combined with inhalant or contact allergies. Chronic ear infections are often traced to food allergies. “If a pet is suffering mightily, see

Houston

your veterinarian for shots or pills for immediate relief. Then ask the vet to allergy test for the specific problem,” advises Veterinarian Laurie Dohmen, owner of Purple Moon Herbs and Studies, in Hartly, Delaware. “This isn’t something you can do yourself. I’ve seen pet owners use what worked for a friend’s dog and make their own pets sicker, despite research and good intentions. What works for one pet won’t necessarily work for another.” While food elimination testing works, it’s a long process that must be done with precision. “If your pet even just nibbles the eliminated food,

Susan Schmitz/Shutterstock.com

by Sandra Murphy

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

you have to start all over again,” says Dohmen. Whether commercially prepared or home cooked, the number of ingredients can substantially extend a test period. Each item must be completely avoided for about six weeks for an accurate assessment. Environmental allergies, which encompass everything unrelated to food, range from common grasses to inhaled pollutants. New carpets or rugs, cleaning supplies, a neighbor’s pesticides, dust and pollen are among the culprits that can cause an allergic reaction. Common symptoms are itchy ears or skin, ear infections, sneezing, runny eyes, scratching, vomiting or diarrhea. Veterinarian Judy Morgan, owner of Naturally Healthy Pets, in Clayton, New Jersey, also uses herbs in her practice to alleviate food and environmental allergy symptoms. “They can be tinctures or poultices; one herb or a blended mixture. Some are applied externally, some internally.” Giving the proper dosage for the size of the pet is vital. She particularly likes calendula for hot spots, despite its odor, because it’s

pterwort/Shutterstock.com

naturalpet

Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock.com

antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral, followed by witch hazel to dry them, and then coconut oil or aloe to soothe and soften affected skin—plus Echinacea to boost the immune system. She uses ginger or peppermint to counteract nausea. “Many people think an allergic pet should be switched to a lamb and rice diet. In some cases, that makes dry, itchy, skin worse,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to know what they are allergic to before trying out new foods or herbal remedies. Find a holistic vet to work with.” Morgan often prescribes a mixture of herbs for the best results. “I like licorice because it works like a steroid without the side effects. Probiotics help keep gut bacteria and the immune system healthy. Parsley works well for dry, itchy, skin caused by a blood deficiency, or imbalance. “Parsley brings a protein, as well as several vitamins, to the party,”

notes Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger in Marysville, Washington. “It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and also great if your dog’s breath needs a freshness boost.” She suggests rosemary and thyme as ingredients in an antibacterial, antifungal salve; she mixes these essential oils with extra virgin coconut oil and beeswax to create paw balm. Morgan reminds us that essential oils can be harmful, even lifethreatening, for cats. “If Kitty has itchy skin, lavender tea can be used as a rinse on cooperative cats,” she suggests. “For a less cooperative feline, chamomile tea as a drink or as leaves mixed into the food soothes itches.” Dohmen cautions, “Herbs and other homeopathic remedies or flower essences are medicine and should be given as a prescription by a qualified veterinarian.”

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Co n n e c t w i t h f r e e l a n c e w r i t e r Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelance Writer@mindspring.com.

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farmers’markets DAILY

Canino Produce and Farmer’s Market. 6am-8pm (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) Over 20,000 square feet of Texas produce. Canino Produce and Farmer’s Market 2520 Airline, 77009. 713-862-4027 caninoproduce.com Last Organic Outpost Harvest. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm (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 www.lastorganicoutpost.com *On Sundays, the LOO is closed but you can find us at East End's Farmers Market from 10am-2pm!!* NuWaters Food Co-Op. 11am-7pm Mon-Sat. 1-5pm Sun. We are a retail food cooperative located in the area currently known as Midtown and historically known as the 3rd Ward. Our store is in the historic old Eldorado Ball Room building. We provide fresh food to a community recently identified as a food desert. NuWaters is a fresh twist on a very old idea. We are not recreating the wheel, we are dusting off the wheel and using it again. We invite you to join us on this journey to community and food wholeness. NuWaters Food Co-Op 2320 Elgin, 77004. NuWatersCo-Op.com

TUESDAY

Spring Branch Farmer’s Market. 2-6pm. Unitarian Fellowship of Houston, 1504 Wirt Road, 77055. facebook.com/ springbranchfarmersmarkethouston Rice University Farmer’s Market. 3:30pm-6:30pm. Rice University, Entrance 13B off of Greenbriar Dr, 5600 Greenbriar 77005. farmersmarket.rice.edu/ Rawfully Organic Food Co-Op. 1-4pm for volunteer hours. 4-7pm for pick-up. Houston Arboretum, 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. You must order your shares by 9pm Monday in order to pick up on Tuesday. Rawfullyorganic.com

WEDNESDAY

SATURDAY

Eastside Urban Harvest Farmer’s Market. 8am-12n. 3000 Richmond at Eastside, 77098. urbanharvest.org The Farm Stand at Petrol Station. 9am-1pm. Petrol Station, 938 Wakefield Dr., 77018. 713.957.2875 http:// bit.ly/1oD6m8F The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill. 8am-12n. 7 Switchbud Place, Spring, 77380. grogansmillvillage.com Farmer’s Market on Grand Parkway. 8am-12n. Church of the Holy Apostles, 1225 W. Grand Parkway, Katy, 77494. farmersmarketongrandparkway.com Heights Epicurean Farmer’s Market. 8:30am-1:30pm. First Saturdays only. Grace UMC, 1245 Heights Blvd., 77008. HeightsEpicurean.com Memorial Villages Farmers Market. 9am-1pm. First Congregational Church, 10840 Beinhorn Rd. 77024. http://bit.ly/1YfwDWD Farmer’s Market at Imperial. 9am-1pm. 198 Kempner, Sugar Land, 77498. Imperialfarmersmarket.com Tomball Farmer’s Market. 9am-1pm. 205 W. Main St. on the corner of Main Street (FM 2920) and Walnut Street in downtown Tomball, 77377. tomballfarmersmarket.org Conroe Saturday AM Farmers Market. 9am-1pm. 135 N Main, Conroe, 77301 facebook.com/ConroeSamM/

SUNDAY

East End Street Market. 10am-2pm. 2800 Navigation Blvd, 77003. Eastendhouston.com/market Magnolia Farmer’s & Artisan’s Market. 11am-3pm. 1st , 3rd & 5th Sundays. Intersection of FM 1488 and FM 1774 in Magnolia, 77354. sweetmagnoliapickins.net Farmers Market at Bridgeland. 12:30-3:30pm. 2nd Sunday. 16902 Bridgeland Landing, Cypress 77433. farmersmarketatbridgeland.org

Farm Shares Schedule Plant It Forward Farms invites you to enjoy your own weekly box of our fresh, local produce through our Farm Share program which helps ensure our efforts to give newly arrived refugees access to the American dream. You, the socially and environmentally conscious consumer, will be supporting local refugee farmers and their families to earn a living wage by farming sustainably on urban farms in Houston. Farm Shares may be picked up at the following locations. Visit our website for more information or to sign up. http://plant-it-forward.org/our-produce/ farm-share/

MONDAY:

Nature Discovery Center in Bellaire 4pm-7pm 7112 Newcastle St, Bellaire

TUESDAY:

Local Foods in Rice Village 3:30 pm - 7 pm 2424 Dunstan Rd, Houston Dr. Blazek’s Office in the Heights 3:30 pm - 7 pm 2310 Rutland St, Houston

Central City Co-Op. 9am-6pm. Kindred Church, 2515 Waugh Dr., 77006. centralcityco-op.com City Hall Farmer’s Market. 11am-1:30pm. City Hall. 901 Bagby Street, 77002 urbanharvest.org

Pearland Elite Training Center 3:30 pm - 7 pm 4407 Halik St, Pearland

THURSDAY

Westchase District Farmer’s Market. 3-6pm. 10503 Westheimer (at Rogerdale), 77042. (1 block west of Beltway 8) westchasedistrictfarmersmarket.com Kingwood Farmer’s Market. 3-7pm. Town Center Park, 8 N. Main St., Kingwood, 77339. facebook.com/kingwoodfarmersmarket

University of St. Thomas 3:30-7 pm 1318 Sul Ross Montrose

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The Corner of Fondren and Willowbend 3:30 pm - 7 pm 10611 Fondren Rd, Houston Dr. Blazek’s Office in the Heights 3:30 pm - 7 pm 2310 Rutland St, Houston American Health Foods 3:30-6 pm 21202 TX-249 #500, Houston University of St. Thomas 3:30-7 pm 1318 Sul Ross Montrose Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center 3:30 - 7 pm 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston

FRIDAY:

Summerwood Elementary School 3:30 - 7 pm 14000 Summerwood Lakes Dr, Houston

ongoingevents daily Houston Arboretum. 7am-7pm. Walk in nature. Learn about native plants and wildlife. Free. Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. houstonarboretum.org International Prayer Pole. Write a prayer in your own heart language and tie it to the ribbons on the outdoor Prayer Pole to be constructed as a temporary installation on the corner of Main and Binz. From a concept developed from totem poles, Tibetan prayer flags and Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross), this interactive prayer station will be open Ash Wednesday (3/1) through Easter (4/15). St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/lent Free Vegetarian Meal. 9:00am. (except Sunday) A free vegetarian meal for any and all. Free. ISKCON Temple 1320 West 34th Street, 77018. 713-686-4482 iskconhouston.org St. Arnold Brewing Company - Brewery Tours. Mon.-Fri. Public Tours at 1:00pm and 3:00pm – no admission charge, food and beer a la carte prices. Sat. Tours at 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm - $10 Admission Charge (includes souvenir glass and four 8oz samples). 2000 Lyons Ave, 77020. saintarnold.com 713-686-9494 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 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 iskconhouston.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 year-round. Free. Waugh Street at Allen Parkway 77019. houstontx.gov/parks/bats.html Free Vegetarian Meal. 7:30pm. (except Sunday) A free vegetarian meal for any and all. Free. ISKCON Temple 1320 West 34th Street, 77018. 713-686-4482 iskconhouston.org

monday Open Mic at The Last Concert Cafe. 6:00-10:00pm. Last Concert Café 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Chandra Yoga - Focus: Finding Balance. 6:45pm-7:45pm. This class will focus on balancing the mind, body and breath. We will perform Pranayama (controlled breathing) that balances the brain and breath and work on Asanas (postures) that help to counteract the imbalances in our bodies. All levels welcome. Drop-in and multiple class pricing available. 708 Telephone Rd., Space C, 77023. Visit our Facebook page facebook.com/ChandraYoga4Life 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. www.firstuu.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 Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

wednesday tuesday

Grace2Go. 7:00-8:30 am. On the go? Want a boost to the start of your day? Drive thru for free coffee, a breakfast bite, and a prayer if desired. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www.graceinhouston.org. Yoga at India House. 11:00-12:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst

markyourcalendar The Self-Invest Series with Helen Racz. 11am-1pm and 6:45pm-8:45pm. Happiness and success can often seem illusive, mysterious or even magical, like we need a special chant, a favor from the Divine or to find just the right key to make it a regular part of our lives. LEARN how to apply SPIRITUAL LAWS to your everyday life EASILY & with FUN and HUMOR. Cost: $125 Monthly. Spectrum Center, 2060 North Loop West, Suite 205, 77018. HelenRacz.com Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-7:30pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation, so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free. South Community Center. 2235 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands, 77380. 832-433-2415. info@HoustonMeditation.org Hatha Flow Yoga. 7:00pm. Join Stefanie for a restoring combination of gentle stretching and strengthening hatha yoga and slow flow vinyasa. Class will include breath work, or pranayama, to calm and soothe the mind, asana practice, vinyasa flow, and a restorative Savasana. The Woman’s Earth Nurturing Studio, 2816 Isabella St., 77004. For class fees and information please call 832-899-4325 or visit thewomansearthstudio.com Intro to Meditation 101.7-8pm. Universal Door Meditation Center offers this free, 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, 77498. www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Yoga at Resurrection MCC. 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. Free, donations accepted. Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2015 West 11th Street, 77008. Yoga@ResurrectionMCC.org Oneness Blessing Meeting. 7-9pm. Our weekly meeting includes sharing, meditation, Oneness teachings, and the giving and receiving of the Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha. Connect with the Oneness Community to explore deeper experiences of Oneness, Divine Love and accelerated awakening. Child care is available, reservation required. $10 suggested Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org

markyourcalendar Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross). 5:00pm-6:00pm. Meditations on the 14 stations of Jesus’ journey, with prayer beads provided at each station to string through a leather band and carry home with you as a reminder. Facilitated by Rev. Nataly Negrete and Helen Spaw in the Chapel. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/gatherings Wednesday Oneness Blessing. 5:30-6:45pm. The Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha, is a hands-on, direct transfer of energy. Which can strengthen your relationship with your Divine, Spirit, God; however you relate to that. Bring freedom from your chattering mind. And can cause your Authentic You to shine and become present in the moment and experience fullness of life as it truly is. The more blessings you receive, the greater the benefit. Child care available, no reservation required. Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr, 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org

markyourcalendar Christian Meditation. 6:00-7:00pm. Experience meditation and contemplative prayer using ancient prayer practices of the early Christian communities. Explore and study contemporary and ancient texts of the contemplative way. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. Parking is free and available at the Woodwind St. entrance. www.graceinhouston.org. Questions? info@graceinhouston.org or 832-667-8601. Urban Ride. 6:30pm. Be ready to roll at 6:30PM. The route is 20 miles. Riders should be comfortable keeping a pace of 18-20 mph. Helmet, front and back light, spare tube, and CO2 cartridges are required. Earphones are not allowed. Speed may vary depending on who shows. Safety comes first. Free. Urban Bicycle Gallery, 4814 Nett St., 77007. judy@urbanbicyclegallery.com Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-7:30pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free. Kingwood Library, 4400 Bens View Lane, 77339. 832-433-2415. info@Houston-Meditation.org Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-8:00pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation, so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free. University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479. 832-433-2415. info@Houston-Meditation.org Wednesday Meditation. 6:30-7pm. We create our life experiences through our way of thinking. One way to align ourselves with Spirit is through meditations. Unity of North Houston, 11738 Grant Road Cypress, 77429. 281-374-7085. unitynorthhouston.org Chandra Yoga - Focus: Gentle Yoga. 6:45pm-7:45pm. This class will focus on Yoga Asanas (postures) to help rid the body of tension, encourage detoxification and re-energize the body. All levels welcome. Drop-in and multiple class pricing available. 708 Telephone Rd., Space C, 77023 Visit our Facebook page - facebook.com/ChandraYoga4Life Blue Line Bike Ride. 7pm. We have multiple rides that leave from our Heights location on Wednesday evening at 7:00pm. Each ride has its own route and distinct pace, so come on out and decide which one works best for you and hop in! Free. Blue Line Bike Lab, 3302 White Oak Drive, 77007. 713-802-1707 www.bluelinebikelab.com/shop-rides

There is nothing on this Earth more to be prized than true friendship.

Beginning Zen Meditation. 7:30-9:30pm. Feeling stressed? Want something to help you feel better? Try meditation with us. Free, registration required. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org

~Thomas Aquinas

Diamond Way Meditation. 7-7:45 pm. Free. Diamond Way Buddhist Center, 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D. 281. 77018. 281-436-6081. diamondway.org/houston/

natural awakenings

March 2017

Hellina Bucket Band 8:00 -10:00pm. Free dinner music. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com 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 Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org Pot Roast. 10:00pm-12mn. Late night music outside under the stars. Cover charge. Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Drum Circle at Midnight 12mn-2am $7.00 Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

thursday Grace2Go. 7:00-8:30 am. On the go? Want a boost to the start of your day? Drive thru for free coffee, a breakfast bite, and a prayer if desired. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www.graceinhouston.org. Integrative Hatha Yoga Classes. 9:30am. Facilitated by Certified Yoga Therapist, Lin Weiss MH, CYT. Balance Mind, Body & Spirit. An integrative approach with classical Hatha foundations. Focusing on structural alignment, pranayama breathing technique and strength building. Bellaire Triangle Yoga Studio. Suitable for all levels. Call 713-859-8595 to reserve your class. Museum of Fine Arts-Houston. 10am-9pm. If you have not spent time enjoying the art exhibits at MFAH, what are you waiting for? Free. MFAH, 1001 Bissonnet, 77005. 713-6397300 mfah.org Yoga at India House. 11:00-12:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst

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Heighten Weight Loss with Hypnosis. 7pm-8:30pm. Learn to tap into your subconscious to remove barriers and unhealthy habits that keep us from making and maintaining long lasting changes in our weight and our lives. $35. NiaMoves, 508 Pecore St., 77009. Call Claudia Autry for more info. (281) 849-4610. Meditation Class: Discovering the Awake Within. 7-9pm. Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien closely guides and interacts with students to realize Awake Mind is already within, they have the capacity to Wake Up, and how 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. Pre-registration required. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, 77498. universaldoor.org. 281-565-9718 Chaz and the Plastik Flask. 7pm. Upbeat musical style with a rock and roll sound. Cover charge. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St., 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Hightailers. 9pm. Longest running house band in existence! Gulf Coast Rhythm and Blues. Cover charge. Last Concert Cafe, 1403 Nance St., 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

friday 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

The Self-Invest Series with Helen Racz. 11am-1pm. Happiness and success can often seem illusive, mysterious or even magical, like we need a special chant, a favor from the Divine or to find just the right key to make it a regular part of our lives. LEARN how to apply SPIRITUAL LAWS to your everyday life EASILY & with FUN and HUMOR. Cost: $125 Monthly. Location is in Katy, address will be sent to you after registration. HelenRacz.com

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 Courtyard, 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

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.

friday

Houston Museum of Natural Science. 3-6pm. Roam the Serengeti, walk with dinosaurs and discover the world's mineral wonders. Free. HMNS 5555 Hermann Park Drive 77030. hmns.org Free Family Thursdays at The Health Museum. 2:00pm7:00pm. Free entry into The Health Museum to enjoy permanent and traveling exhibits (DeBakey Cell Lab requires a $3 fee) on Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Health Museum, 1515 Hermann Dr., 77004. thehealthmuseum.org 713-521-1515 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

markyourcalendar Your Health Is Your Wealth. 7pm. Come learn about the benefits of CBD nano-enhanced hemp oil on fibromyalgia, chronic pain, arthritis, inflammation, sleep problems, anxiety, and much more. Salt Of The Earth Spa, 9920 Hwy 90, Ste. B200, Sugarland, 77478. For more info: LaTronica Fisher (713) 520-8188 or Sandy Hinderliter (832) 939-8998 www.drfisherroad2wellness.com Hatha Flow Yoga. 7:00pm. Join Stefanie for a restoring combination of gentle stretching and strengthening hatha yoga and slow flow vinyasa. Class will include breath work, or pranayama, to calm and soothe the mind, asana practice, vinyasa flow, and a restorative Savasana. The Woman’s Earth Nurturing Studio, 2816 Isabella St., 77004. For class fees and information please call 832-899-4325 or visit thewomansearthstudio.com

Houston

Dinner Music with Jimmy Deen. 7-9pm. Cover charge. Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

Yoga for the Body and Mind. 8-9:30 am. Yoga classes based on the teachings of Swami Ramdev ji including asanas, pranayama and meditation. Free. Arya Samaj Greater Houston Center 14375 Shiller Rd. 77082. 281-242-5000 aryasamajhouston.org. Integrative Hatha Yoga Classes. 9:30am. Facilitated by Certified Yoga Therapist, Lin Weiss MH, CYT. Balance Mind, Body & Spirit. An integrative approach with classical Hatha foundations. Focusing on structural alignment, pranayama breathing technique and strength building. Bellaire Triangle Yoga Studio. Suitable for all levels. Call 713-859-8595 to reserve your class. Hatha Yoga - Back to the Basics. 9:30am-10:30am. This class emphasizes the basics of Hatha Yoga. We will perform Pranayama (controlled breathing) and work on proper Asana (posture) alignment. All levels welcome. Drop-in and multiple class pricing available. 708 Telephone Rd. Space C, 77023. Visit our facebook page - facebook.com/ChandraYoga4Life Beginning Zen Meditation. 10am-12n. Feeling stressed? Want something to help you feel better? Try meditation with us. Free, registration required. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org Children’s Zen Meditation. 10am-12n. Open to children ages 4-12. Parents must be present and participate. Free, registration required. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org Yoga at India House. 10:00-11:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Beginning Meditation. 11:00-11:30am. Enjoy relaxing meditation class at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst Meditation: Enhance your Spiritual Journey. 11am-1pm. Each week we will explore a topic about spiritual living and meditation. We will learn an easy-to-do Meditation technique leading to deeper levels of bliss and joy!! This meditation requires no difficult postures and can be done by sitting comfortably on a chair. There will be free vegetarian lunch after meditation. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, Rm 217, 77031. houstonSOS.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 Dinner Music with Jimmy Deen. 6-9pm. Cover charge. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St., 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

sunday Yoga for the Body and Mind. 8-9:30 am. Yoga classes based on the teachings of Swami Ramdev ji including asanas, pranayama and meditation. Free. Arya Samaj Greater Houston Center, 14375 Shiller Rd., 77082. 281-242-5000 aryasamajhouston.org. Sunday at Houston Zen Center. 8am-11am. We start with the practice of Morning Service. This is followed by meditation, then work practice, which involves mindful cleaning and straightening in the Meditation Hall and the Center’s grounds. Then a dharma talk, the teachings of Buddha. You are welcome to attend some or all of the Sunday program. Free. HOUSTON ZEN CENTER, 1605 Heights BLVD., 77008. 713-869-1952. houstonzen.org Praying Circles Around Your Children. 8:30am-9:30am. In the season of Lent, we will have a space to gather and work through practices of prayer and parenting children in the single-digit years. Facilitated by Lacey Webster in the Jones Bldg, J-204. No cost; book purchase optional. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/gatherings Sunday Oneness Blessing. After 9am and 11am services. The Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha, is a hands-on, direct transfer of energy. Which can strengthen your relationship with your Divine, Spirit, God; however you relate to that. Bring freedom from your chattering mind. And can cause your Authentic You to shine and become present in the moment and experience fullness of life as it truly is. The more blessings you receive, the greater the benefit. Child care available, no reservation required. Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr, 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org **No Oneness Blessing after the 11am service on 3/19** Christian Meditation. 9:00am-9:30 am. Experience meditation and contemplative prayer using ancient prayer practices of the early Christian communities in preparation for receiving Holy Communion at the 10am worship service. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www. graceinhouston.org. Questions? info@graceinhouston.org or 832-667-8601. Sunday Celebrations at Creative Life Spiritual Center. 9:30am and 11:00am. Founding minister Jesse Jennings speaks on the basics of the Religious Science path. Love offering. Creative Life Spiritual Center, 5326 Spring-Stuebner Rd., Spring, 77389. Contact info@creativelife.org or visit creativelife.org Movement Meditation for Healing Mind and Body . 9:30am–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 is profoundly healing, and also restores and refreshes every aspect of our being. Suggested donation $50/month, pre-registration required. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, 77498 www.universaldoor.org 281-565-9718

The Conversations With God Study Group. 9:30am-10:45am. Study materials provided, this ongoing gathering is facilitated by Dr. Obidike Kamau. Free. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania,77587. carmeltemple.org Sunday Service at Unity of North Houston. 10:15-11:15am Experience joy-filled vibrations and high-energy spirituality in motion that is our Sunday service! With live music, singing, affirmative prayer, and dynamic sermons, this is a Sunday service that will feed your body, mind and heart. Now is the time to stoke your inner spark by sharing in the light everyone brings to our community. Unity of North Houston, 11738 Grant Road Cypress, 77429. 281-374-7085. unitynorthhouston.org Carmel Temple All Faith Service. 11:00am. Different guest speaker every week. Free. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania, 77587. carmeltemple.org Semanal Programa de Meditación 10am-1pm. Ciencia de la Espiritualidad es una organización global, no religiosa, sin fines de lucro, espiritual dedicado a la unidad del amor y de la paz. Nuestro grupo de meditación Houston ha estado activo durante más de 52 años y se reúne regularmente. Cada semana nuestro grupo se reúne para meditar juntos, reflexionar sobre las palabras de los grandes santos y místicos y pasar algún tiempo con otras personas que comparten el objetivo de llevar una vida espiritualmente enriquecida y satisfactoria. Gratis. Trini Mendenhall Sosa Center 1414 Wirt Road 77055. houstonSOS.org 832-304-0767. Acoustic Jams. 10:30am. Easy listening music to brunch by. No cover charge. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St., 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Ecstatic Dance Evolution. 10:30-1:00pm. Ecstatic Dance Evolution is a unique transformational Ecstatic Dance practice developed by Houston’s Sydney Samadhi Strahan. This Dance has been actively evolving since 2003, giving Houstonians a consistent place to be free in mind-body-spirit and express themselves through movement with an accepting creative community. Free. MATCH: Midtown Arts and Theater Center, 3400 Main Street, 77002. ecstaticdanceevolution.com SPRING Youth and Teen Program at Universal Door Meditation Center. 11:00am–12:30pm. For youth grades 1-12. Under the guidance of Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, youth are introduced to the Awake Mind within, and through basic meditation as well as other activities and games, they learn how to return to it. Registration required, call for more details. Suggested donation $60/month. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, 77498 universaldoor.org 281-565-9718 Dawn Mountain Sunday Meditation. 11am-12noon. Join us for guided meditation suitable for everyone. Led by senior members of the Dawn Mountain community. Free. Dawn Mountain 2010 Naomi Street, Suite A, 77054. http://dawnmountain.org Sunday Discussion Circle. 11:30am-12:30pm. You are invited to join us for facilitated, fun, educational discussions on a variety of topics. We practice our UU values of keeping an open mind, listening respectfully, learning from differing perspectives, entertaining new ways of thinking about issues, following guidelines, and being welcoming. First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin St. Rm 304, 77004. 713526-5200 www.firstuu.org Centerpoint Body Mind and Spirit Expo. 1pm-6pm. Angel oracle readings, psychic medium, tarot card readings, soul oracle readings, tea leaf astrology, astrology and past life readings, foot reflexology, energy healers, jewelry, crystals and more! Coffee, lemonade and nutritious snacks. Admission Free. Center Point (in the old Metaphysical Matrix building) 2727 Fondren Suite 5M, 77080. 713-932-7224 centerpointhouston.org Diamond Way Meditation. 5-5:45 pm. Free. Diamond Way Buddhist Center. 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D., 77018. 281436-6081. 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 Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002 houstonfoodnotbombs.org

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 MARCH 1ST

An Evening with Spirit. 7:00pm-9:00pm. Join in an evening of love, laughter and tears as Heather demystifies the myths and misconceptions of mediumship and channels messages of love and encouragement from loved ones on the other side. Limited seating. Register at bit.ly/eveningwithspirit0317. Holiday Inn Houston Downtown,1616 Main St, 77002

THURSDAY MARCH 2ND

FRIDAY MARCH 3RD

Chandra Yoga – Kids Yoga! 6:00pm. Come join us for a fun Kids Yoga class!!! No experience required. Location: 708 Telephone Rd., Space C, 77023. For class pricing and more info please visit our Facebook page facebook.com/ChandraYoga4Life LiveStream Oneness Meditation Broadcast with Reverend Howard Caesar. 11:30am-12:30pm. The Oneness Meditation is a powerful transmission of Divine Energy which helps one move into higher states of consciousness; allowing the individual to deepen their spiritual journey. The results are transformative, bringing lasting changes and shifts in consciousness. Each person will have their own unique experience during the meditation. Love offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org https:// livestream.com/accounts/913316/events/6962622

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Connect to Your Bliss with Dr. Andrew Vidich . 12:302:30pm. Each of us has unique gifts and a special place and purpose in this world. Too often however, our lives are overwhelmed with relentless anxiety, worry and lack of love. This day come and experience your own unique gifts through interactive workshops by Dr. Andrew Vidich, learning a powerful meditation practice and quiet time for reflection and silence. Samadhi Yoga & Dance Heights, 106 Aurora Street, (Heights Area), Houston TX 77008. 832-295-0099. houstonsos.org Introduction to Intuitive Painting & Open Studio. 6:00pm8:45pm. Intuitive Painting swings the doors open to living with more expression and authenticity. When you understand the nature of creativity and its principles, you begin to relax and trust. You will learn these principles during this series. No experience is needed. No critiques are permitted. All materials included. $55/session multi session discounts available. True You Creativity Studio in The Heights. For more information and to register, visit www.trueyoucreativity.com

markyourcalendar Finding Lasting Peace in Challenging Times with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 6:45-8:30pm. In today’s fast-paced and stress-filled world, many of us find ourselves living lives of quiet desperation. Through a simple, fully integrated fivestep practice, each of us can learn to live and work more consciously and compassionately in the present moment. CenterPoint Mind, Body & Spirit, 2727 Fondren Road, Houston TX 77063 Ph: 713.932.7224. houstonsos.org

Introduction to Intuitive Painting & Open Studio. 10:00am1:00pm. Intuitive Painting swings the doors open to living with more expression and authenticity. When you understand the nature of creativity and its principles, you begin to relax and trust. You will learn these principles during this series. No experience is needed. No critiques are permitted. All materials included. $55/session multi session discounts available. True You Creativity Studio in The Heights. For more information and to register, visit www.trueyoucreativity.com

markyourcalendar Meditation for Personal and Global Healing with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 2:45-4:30. Meditation is a spiritual technology which can ignite a powerful personal and global healing process. Find out why doctors, health practitioners, universities, corporations and even insurance companies are now utilizing the practice of meditation as a means of creating a more positive, healthy and enriching lifestyle. In this presentation Dr. Andrew Vidich will present a simple yet powerful meditation technique that can not only positively transform our inner self but also foster a revolutionary change in our societal, governmental and religious institutions. Central Market, 3815 Westheimer Rd, Community Room (2nd Floor), Houston TX 77027 Ph: 713-386-1700. houstonsos.org

markyourcalendar An Empowerment Workshop: Becoming The Person You Want to Be with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 6:45-8:30pm. In this workshop participants, will learn a simple but profound method for creating change in their life. This seven-step process focuses on three basic laws of the universe; We are all accountable, we create our own experience, and life rewards action. In addition participants, will learn how the practice of introspection is the key to unlocking the treasury of divinity within. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania St., South Houston TX 77587 Ph: 281.766.4767. houstonsos.com

Natural Pregnancy plus: Women Rising

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Midwives & Doulas, Integrative Physicians, Life Coaches, Natural Birth Options & Women’s Networks

Sunday Love Feast. 7:00pm. A free vegetarian meal for any and all. Free. ISKCON Temple 1320 West 34th Street, 77018. 713-686-4482 iskconhouston.org

natural awakenings

M A Y March 2017

SATURDAY MARCH 4TH

markyourcalendar Transforming Your Life Through Meditation with Dr. Andrew Vidich . 9:45-11:30am. Mediation can be the key that unlocks the inner doorway to a life of deep inner peace. It has been practiced for thousands of years and is the core practice of all great spiritual and religious traditions. By learning how to “tap inside,” as Emerson put it each of us can mine the unlimited wealth lying dormant inside us. In this class we will learn a simple yet highly effective method to help still our restless mind, and achieve a state of inner equipoise. Trini Mendenhall Sosa Center, 1414 Wirt Road, Houston TX 77055 Ph: (713) 956-0881. Houstonsos.org Marva’s Holistic Fair. 10:00am-5:00pm. Psychics, tarot readers, palmists, healers, vendors of all sorts. Admission Free. LaQuinta Inn-Galleria on 610 West Loop North between San Felipe and Post Oak, 77027. psychicfairs.com 713-444-3581 Dowsing For Beginners with Kristina Woods. 10:30am– 1:00pm. Have you ever wondered if dowsing is for you? In this class you will learn the history of dowsing, how to prepare yourself and your pendulum/rods, how to phrase your questions for maximum accuracy, and how to interpret your responses. Bring your pendulum or dowsing rods or you can borrow from the store. $40.00. Body Mind & Soul, 7951 Katy Frwy Ste. N, Houston, 77024. 713-993-0550 www.bmshouston.com Spirit Quest’s Psychic & Holistic Fair. 12:00pm-6:00pm. Come and enjoy a day of intuitive and holistic pampering for yourself or your family. Try out different healing modalities, get a reading, or shop a variety of products. Free. The Spirit Quest Center, 303 Main St., Spring (Old Town Spring), 77373. thespiritquestcenter.com Reaching For the Divine: Building Your Spiritual Communication with Kristina Woods. 2:30pm–5:30pm. Do you long to create a more peaceful life for yourself? Do you long to connect with your spiritual guides? In this class we will clarify how our communication with self, others, and the energetic world shapes our reality. We will identify how to make shifts communications that support us in fulfilling our deepest desires and connect us with the Divine. $50.00. Body Mind & Soul, 7951 Katy Frwy Ste. N, Houston, 77024. 713-993-0550 www.bmshouston.com

markyourcalendar The Way of Illumination with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 3:455:00 pm. Each of us has unlimited spiritual potential lying within us. If we only knew how great our spiritual inheritance is we would be hugging the trees and kissing the ground. There is an everlasting fountain of Light lying within us. If we only knew how to tap into this eternal abundance all our cares and worries would greatly diminish. In this talk participants will learn the simple yet powerful steps to living in the light of compassion and embodying the gifts of divine love. Samadhi Yoga & Dance Heights, 106 Aurora Street, (Heights Area), Houston TX 77008 Ph: 832-295-0099. houstonsos.org

JUNE Chronic Pain

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Houston

SUNDAY MARCH 5TH

Bayou Bikers. 8:00am. Meet at Market Square Park for 2540 mile bike rides 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. Market Square, 301 Milam, 77002. 713-845-1000 marketsquarepark.com Labyrinth Prayer Walks. 9:15am-1:00pm. All are invited to experience prayer while walking the outdoor labyrinth. This is a come-and-go morning: you set the pace and the intention. Certified labyrinth facilitators will be on hand to offer guidance. Free and open to the public. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/gatherings Blessing Ceremony. 10:00am-12:00pm. Free. CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www. cthouston.org 281-568-1568.

markyourcalendar Living In The Light; 5 Steps to An Awakened Life with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 10:45-12:30. Each of us has unlimited spiritual potential lying within us. If we only knew how great our spiritual inheritance is we would be dancing with joy and delight. There is an everlasting fountain of Light lying within us. If we only knew how to tap into this eternal abundance all our cares and worries would instantly disappear. In this talk and discussion participants will learn a science of inner transformation by ascending into the great fountainhead of Light pouring down upon us. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania St., South Houston TX 77587 Ph: 281.766.4767. houstonsos.org

markyourcalendar Living From Our Soul; A Spiritual Journey of Transformation with Dr. Andrew Vidich. 1:45-3:30 pm. In this talk and interactive discussion, we review the journey of spiritual awakening from the first flickering s of self -awareness to the deepest realization of our True Self. Participants will explore the five stages of the development of this awakening, including preparation for beginning our spiritual journey, knowledge of meditation as the secret to this inner awakening, connecting to our Core, Living from our Core or Higher Self, and the final merger in Truth. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania St., South Houston TX 77587 Ph: 281.766.4767. houstonsos.com

TUESDAY MARCH 7TH

SATURDAY MARCH 11TH

markyourcalendar What’s Your Purpose with Kevin Casey & Sarah Gish. 3:00pm–5:00pm. This is the class for you if you are wondering what your purpose in life is! Astrologer Kevin Casey and Intuitive Guide Sarah Gish will talk to you about ways to catch your dreams and uncover who you really are, using tools from astrology as well as personal intuition. $50.00. Body Mind & Soul, 7951 Katy Frwy Ste. N, Houston, 77024. 713-993-0550 www.bmshouston.com

SUNDAY MARCH 12TH

Meditation Workshop. 10:00-11:00am. Open to everyone especially for beginners to meditation. The master will give a brief introduction to meditation and guide the participants to do meditation. Free, donations welcome. CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568 Crystal Grids: What They Are and How To Use Them with Anna Silvernail. 2:00pm–4:00pm. Do you collect crystals and would like to learn new ways to use them effectively? Would you like to learn how to use grids with your healing crystals? In this class, Certified Crystal Healer Anna Silver will cover all the basics on crystal grids—how to construct them, why you should use them, and how you can combine them with other tools to create lasting and positive change in your life. $45.00. Body Mind & Soul, 7951 Katy Frwy Ste. N, Houston, 77024. 713-993-0550 www.bmshouston.com

TUESDAY MARCH 14TH

Oneness Blessing Meeting with Prana Deeksha. 7:00pm9:00pm. Prana Deeksha is the most powerful form of Deeksha. A Prana Deeksha Giver must be initiated in the Temple of the Supreme Light by touching the physical Golden Ball which is embedded with the power of the Supreme Light. Please note that Prana Deeksha is given spontaneously only if the needed conditions are met. If the conditions are not met, either Golden Orb or Hands On Deeksha will be given. Child care available, reservation only. $10 suggested Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050 unityhouston.org

WEDNESDAY MARCH 15TH

FRIDAY MARCH 17TH

Oneness Blessing Meeting with Golden Orb Deeksha. 7:00pm9:00pm. Experience the newest form of Deeksha released from Oneness University, the Golden Orb Deeksha! This Deeksha will be offered the last Tuesday of each month at our Oneness meeting. All those initiated as Golden Orb Deeksha Givers are welcome to give the Blessing; everyone else may receive the Golden Orb Deeksha! All are welcome to attend and experience this special Blessing! Child care available, reservation only. $10 suggested Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org

WEDNESDAY MARCH 8TH

Clearing & Awakening: A Heart-Centered Workshop with Max Highstein. 10:00pm–5:00pm (one hour lunch break). What is your biggest challenge? Get to the bottom of your challenges, receive higher guidance, and clear what blocks you. Mysticism and psychology come together in this workshop, as we focus on three key aspects—Learning to live from your Higher Heart, Receiving information, love, and support from your higher self, ascended masters, saints, and angels, Releasing the old fear, anger, sadness, and shame that keeps us stuck. This workshop is designed to help you make deep and lasting changes, quickly! $150.00. Body Mind & Soul, 7951 Katy Frwy Ste. N, Houston, 77024. 713-993-0550 www.bmshouston.com

Seeking the Welfare of the City: Decoding Whiteness, Race and Reconciliation. 7:00pm-8:30pm. A three-part series engaging important texts around racial dynamics and how they impact the social, spiritual and moral welfare of our city. Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Matt Russell and Rev. Karyn Richards-Kuan in the Jones Bldg, Fondren Hall. Free and open to the public. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/gatherings

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SATURDAY MARCH 18TH

SUNDAY MARCH 19TH

Half-day Retreat. 9:00am-12:00pm. Chan/Zen Meditation Classes guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. Free. CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568 Public Oneness Meditation with Reverend Howard Caesar. 12:30pm-1:30pm. The Oneness Meditation is a powerful transmission of Divine Energy which helps one move into higher states of consciousness; allowing the individual to deepen their spiritual journey. The results are transformative, bringing lasting changes and shifts in consciousness. Each person will have their own unique experience during the meditation. Child care available, no reservation required. Love offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org

TUESDAY MARCH 21ST

WEDNESDAY MARCH 22ND

markyourcalendar Seeking the Welfare of the City: Decoding Whiteness, Race and Reconciliation. 7:00pm-8:30pm. A three-part series engaging important texts around racial dynamics and how they impact the social, spiritual and moral welfare of our city. Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Matt Russell and Rev. Karyn Richards-Kuan in the Jones Bldg, Fondren Hall. Free and open to the public. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/gatherings

SATURDAY MARCH 25TH

Mitzvah Day. 9:00am-3:00pm, in shifts. For Mitzvah Day this spring, St. Paul’s is partnering with Rise Against Hunger to package meals for the world’s most vulnerable populations. All ages are encouraged to come! St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street, 77004. Sign up for a shift and/or make a donation: www.stpaulshouston/mitzvahday

markyourcalendar IEL Institute Level III – Energy Intuitive Certification – Crystal Therapy. 10:00am-5:00pm. This one day workshop event is part of the IEL Program and will build credits toward the Level IV Advanced Energy Intuitive Certification. This part of the program has a heavy focus on the teachings of Dr. Marcel Vogel and his methods of using fine cut crystals as an energy device. Cost - Early Bird $149, $179 at door. Spectrum Center, 2060 N. Loop W #205, 77018. To register call 713-303-7107 or email chriscarpentier333@gmail.com.

SUNDAY MARCH 26TH

markyourcalendar IEL Level III - Energy Intuitive Certification - Sound Vibrational Medicine. 10:00am-5:00pm. This one-day event will be focused on sound vibrations and how they affect the human body. There will be a demonstration of sound entrainment, with the use of sound to clear the chakras, endocrine glands, and energetic blocks. Cost - Early Bird $149, $179 at door. Spectrum Center, 2060 N. Loop W #205, 77018. To register call 713-303-7107 or email chriscarpentier333@gmail.com.

markyourcalendar Join Helen and The Emissarians. 1:00pm-3:00pm. Come and experience The Emissarians, a transformative vibration of divine love and wisdom, channeled through Helen Racz. $45. Location in Katy, Tx (address will be sent to you when you register). www.Emissarians.com

Henna Body Art Workshop. 2:00pm-4:00pm. Learn the beautiful, ancient art form of Henna Body Art with Professional Henna Artist of 12 years, Macy Ulbricht. In this 2 hour beginner, comprehensive class, you will learn how to make henna paste from scratch, roll henna "cone" applicators, step-by-step design drawing techniques and henna "alphabet", storage of henna powder and paste, aftercare of henna designs, a brief history of this 5,000 year old art, and tons of henna painting fun! Class includes all materials, including a mini henna kit. Please register to confirm your space. $25 Registration & Materials, $35 Class, $60 Total. Pixie's Intent 2727 Fondren Rd., Ste. 5B, 77063. To register call/txt/email Macy 832-5075191 hennalovehouston@gmail.com

MONDAY MARCH 27TH

Breastfeeding Empowerment Group. 6:30pm-7:30pm. Motherhood Empowered would like to welcome moms-to-be and currently breastfeeding moms to relate & discuss breastfeeding joys, challenges and our topic of the month! Free. Malcom Purvis Library, 510 Melton Street, Magnolia, 77354. www.motherhoodempowered.com

TUESDAY MARCH 28TH

WEDNESDAY MARCH 29TH

FRIDAY MARCH 31ST

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

planahead SUNDAY, APRIL 2ND

Blessing Ceremony. 10:00am-12:00pm. Free. CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www. cthouston.org 281-568-1568

SUNDAY, APRIL 9TH

markyourcalendar Tom Bird Method Workshop: Write in the Divine Author State. 1:30-4:00 pm. Many are drawn to the art form of writing to allow healing, transformation and the release of their divine potential. In this two-and-a-half-hour complimentary workshop, you write with Tom using his most successful technique, the innate and natural Divine Author Within space. Unity of Houston. 2929 Unity Drive 77057. tombird.com.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6TH THRU SUNDAY MAY 21ST.

markyourcalendar Cirque du Soleil: KURIOS. This spring's must-see event is coming your way: Cirque du Soleil’s KURIOS show is appearing in Houston. Whether you're planning a group activity in the company of your family, friends, colleagues, customers, or students, this is your guarantee of a spectacular success! Book your tickets through Natural Awakenings Houston and support Houston’s premier healthy living magazine! NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

natural awakenings

Thanks to our special prices, a la carte options and all-inclusive packages, you can create a unique and exhilarating event that your guests will talk about long afterwards.

MONDAY, APRIL 10TH

New Family Empowerment Group. 6:30pm-7:30pm. Motherhood Empowered would like to welcome expecting parents and parents with infants to discuss infant milestones, joys, challenges and our topic of the month! Free. Malcom Purvis Library, 510 Melton Street, Magnolia, 77354. www.motherhoodempowered.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 21ST

One-day Retreat. 9:00am-4:30pm. Chan/Zen Meditation Classes guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. Free. CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568

SATURDAY, APRIL 22ND

markyourcalendar Earthday Birthday, Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of A Healing Collective. 10:00am-4:00pm. A Healing Collective invites you to join us during our 10th anniversary celebration featuring samples of the work done at AHC by leading healers and educators in Houston. Free to attend. A Healing Collective, 4231 Bellaire Blvd., Suite T, 77025. Contact Margaret Harle at margaret.harle@ahealingcollective.com or call 713-419-8207.

SUNDAY, APRIL 23RD

MONDAY, APRIL 24TH

FRIDAY – SUNDAY, APRIL 28TH

markyourcalendar Abolish Your Inner Saboteur 2017. April 28th-30th! This live weekend event will transform, empower and launch your unique passion into the world even faster. End selfdoubt, confusion, worry, hesitance, stalling... Transform it all into SHEER POWER. Realize your potential. Make your mark. Freedom awaits. For registration and ticket info visit TinaMarie.com/abolish or call (888) 721-4204. Hilton Post Oak, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., 77056.

THURSDAY MAY 18

markyourcalendar Deva Premal & Miten with Manose: Temple at Midnight Tour. Celebrated chant masters, Deva Premal & Miten bring their Temple at Midnight tour to Houston. This powerful gathering offers a joyful path to centering in these turbulent times, creating luminous pools of dee p celebration. Concert will be held at Unity of Houston 2929 Unity Dr, Houston, TX 77057. For information contact Rosa Glenn Reilly at SpectrumCenter-Houston.com

March 2017

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. ACUPUNCTURE

BIOLOGICAL DENISTRY

THE AXELRAD CLINIC

MARILYN K. JONES, DDS

Since 2004, The Axelrad Clinic has been providing 100% natural, specialized care for Wo m e n ’ s H e a l t h a n d Hormonal Wellness. Our experience in this area is unparalleled and we pride ourselves on our extensive experience, having helped over 3,000 women heal and thrive using our unique combination of acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, and stress-reduction. Experienced, effective care for thyroid, adrenal fatigue, depression, stress, anxiety, PMS, endometriosis, PCOS, and reproductive concerns. Book your free initial consultation at www.axelradclinic.com or call 713-527-9555. See ad on page 17.

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences. Setting the stage for the body to heal itself includes removing infection and toxins, correcting structure, and providing the best dental materials for you which will promote an outstanding environment for your overall health. Dentistry is my true love and as a true Biological Dentist, I combine modern technology, safe protection protocols, advanced knowledge of biological dentistry and medicine, and a patientcentric approach to enhance the wellness of all my patients. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment. See ad on page 27.

Hormonal Wellness With Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, and Nutrition Locations in Houston, The Woodlands, and Katy 713-527-9555 www.axelradclinic.com

AYURVEDA AYUSH WAVE-AYURVEDA AND YOGA 15263 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-870-2772 AyushWave.com

Experience what people in India have known about for centuries, the healing power of Ayurveda. Ayush Wave Ayurveda Wellness and Yoga is the new, alternative and holistic wellness center in Sugar Land. Our focus is on providing alternative therapies to chronic diseases using Ayurveda, the form of traditional medicine from India in a spa environment. To learn more visit our website or call today for a consultation.

Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 712-785-7767 MarilynKJonesDDS.com

BOOKS THE METAPHYSICAL CENTER POINT by Barbara Silberg

Although many Natural Aw a k e n i n g M a g a z i n e readers know Barbara Silberg through her sales of this magazine’s advertising and past interviews published in Houston’s edition, Barbara is a prizewinning poet with over 50 years writing experience, whose verses are often lyrical, sometimes thoughtful, once in a while irreverent (or downright funny), occasionally wise, at times earthy, and frequently achingly romantic. This poetry chapbook features reflections on what we know; a poem each about a pixie and brownie; plus, poetry focused on death, love, and rebirth. Available only at Centerpoint Body Mind & Spirit, and Pixie’s Intent, both located at 2727 Fondren at Westheimer in Houston.

BEAUTY & SKIN CARE POOFY ORGANICS WITH ORGANIC FELECIA

Felecia Hunt, Independent Guide League City 832-226-6957, organicfelecia@gmail.com http://organicfelecia.poofyorganics.com

Who says ORGANIC needs to be boring or expensive? ALL gluten and cruelty-free, nonGMO, most offerings USDA Organic. 500+ products made in the USA for women, men, kids, babies, & home. Contact me for a free catalog.

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

THE POWER OF AWAKE by Thich Dieu Thien

Known internationally as a very inspiring teacher full of wisdom, clarity, and compassion, Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien easily engages people of all ages, cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and helps them to discover more about who they really are, transform all stress and conflict in daily life, and return to the Awake already within each person. Based on her own personal experience, she reminds readers that our goal is not just to recognize ego but to fully realize the source and nature of it, break the system of ego, and live truly happy and free in any situation. In Awake, ego doesn't exist; in ego, Awake cannot appear."You are not the voice in your head, or the emotions, or the stress... You are what can recognize the voice, the emotions, and the stress. You are Awake." -- Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien. Available on Amazon. com

CHIROPRACTIC ALAYNA PAGNINI, DC, CAC

HealthPro Chiropractic & Acupuncture 4101 Greenbriar Dr., Ste. 135, 77098 281-506-0105 9720 Cypresswood Dr., Ste. 130, 77070 281-809-0100 HealthProChiro.com

HealthPro is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients. It is our commitment that we help our patients return to a natural state of health and to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We achieve this by addressing the patient as a whole and not just a condition. We provide a variety of treatment options including adjustments, muscle therapy, acupuncture, nutritional support, and rehabilitation to name a few. Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron focuses on woman’s health and pediatrics and has her Webster Technique Proficiency Certification and is completing her Pediatric Certification. Visit our website for more information or call to schedule an appointment.

INNATE CHIROPRACTIC HEALING ARTS CENTER 230 Westcott St suite 220 Houston, TX 77007 (713) 521-2104 n8chiro.com

Our team is pleased to welcome you to the Innate Chiropractic Healing Arts Center in Houston where we offer a variety of gentle healing modalities to enhance your LIFE FORCE, ENERGY and PEAK PERFORMANCE, naturally! Dr. Jackie’s approach to health and wellness incorporates a “full-spine, whole-person” approach utilizing the gentle techniques of Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) and Somato Respiratory Integration (SRI). For those interested in deeper healing and personal development, we also offer a variety of classes and workshops including collage, life goal setting, and empowerment drumming. Visit our website and give us a call today! See ad on page 31.

CLOTHING

COLONICS

GYMS

THREDZ USA

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

HOUSTON GYM

THREDZ offers a wide selection of hand woven unstitched fabrics, ready to wear clothing for both men and women as well as formal wear. They provide simple, but timelessly cut pieces that have set the bar high as a prestigious fashion label. Whether you need a brand new outfit, or an entire wardrobe, their in-house stylists are more than happy to provide you with assistance to make you look your very best. Visit our website or come by our store, today! See ad on page 15.

Established 1989 Joyce hasn’t closed. Just relocated. Call to schedule any of the following services: massage therapies, lymphatic drainage massage and facials, reflexology, infra-red sauna, ion cleanse foot or hand baths, Chinese cupping or colon hydrotherapy (prescriptions only- yours or ours). By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

Twenty years ago, Houston Gym opened as an alternative to big, impersonal fitness centers with staffs of high-pressure salespeople. We built a facility that boasts NEW state-of -the-art equipment, yet retains the casual feel of a neighborhood gym. Simply put, Houston Gym is a place for people who are serious about achieving physical fitness. M-F: 5a-11p, Sat & Sun: 8a-8p. Call for a FREE Trial Pass.

5901 Hillcroft Street Suite B2 Houston, TX 77036 713-785-1600 ThredzUSA.com

COACHING ABOLISH YOUR INNER SABOTEUR! Houston, Texas April 28-30, 2017 tinamarie.com

Learn how to transform negativity in your life; people, jobs, health concerns, memories all into emblems of peace, calm and power. Over the past five years, the powerful transformation toolset has been experienced by thousands in private sessions, in workshops and now ABOLISH YOUR INNER SABOTEUR – THE EXPERIENCE is being released … Space is limited. Visit our website, take advantage of the Early Bird Special and sign up today! See ad on page 19.

BLISSFUL QUESTS

Positive change starts now! 832-628-4113 http://blissfulquests.com/

Are you ready to achieve your dreams and enjoy balance and success in every area of your life? Find out how, in just 12 weeks, you could be happier and more successful thanks to Heal Your Life® Coach Doyle Ward, who has already helped hundreds of people achieve their dreams! I offer both online and private one-on-one coaching. What are you waiting for? Take that first step toward happiness now! See ad on page 16.

1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-344-0095 JoyceLong.biz

EFT-HEALING TOUCH-HYPNO ZILLA ADAMS, BA, CHTP, EFT, MH

Energetic Wellness Center - Holistic Healing Katy Office: 439 Mason Park BLVD, Suite C, Katy, Texas 77450 Houston Office: The Preserve, 2060 N. Loop West, Suite 205 Houston, Texas 77018 808-280-3111 zillaadams@gmail.com www.zillaadams.com www.ptsdwarriorwellnessprogram.com

Why not give yourself and your family the special gift of energy medicine and GET FREE AT LAST! Zilla has over 20 years’ experience as a Certified Healing Touch Practitioner, including work at Kaiser Permanente and Stanford University School of Medicine. She combines five therapeutic modalities for powerful results, customizing each session specifically for your issues. These include, Healing Touch, TFT (Thought Field Therapy), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Advanced Reiki and MA, Clinical/Medical Hypnotherapy. She calls this the “Grand Slam Healing Intensive”. Call for a FREE 15 MINUTE consultation or book a session. The FIRST 20 MINUTES ARE FREE! “Nothing binds you except your thoughts. Nothing limits you except your fears. Nothing controls you except your beliefs.”

1501 DURHAM STREET HOUSTON, TX 77007 713-880-9191 HoustonGym.com

HAIR DESIGN TUSCANY VILLAGE SALON

West Lake Houston Center 7506 Fm 1960 Rd E Humble, TX 77346 281-361-7567 vagaro.com/michaelvela Mon-Friday from 10-7. Saturday 9-5

Michael Vela has been a stylist for 30 years, almost all of that time in the Kingwood, Atascocita and Humble area. He cuts women’s, men and kids hair, does color, highlights and perms. He specializes in Brazilian Blowout smoothing treatment. Michael says, “I strive to take excellent care of everyone who sits in my chair, to find styles that meet the unique needs of their hair and most of all I will listen to them. Give him a call or visit his website to schedule an appointment.

VENUS HAIR DESIGN

361 West 19th Street Houston, TX 77008 713-868-4725 venushairhouston.com

ENERBODYBALANCE

Venus Hair Design is a must-see place on 19th Street in The Heights. Venus and her staff are proud to be able to provide their customers of any age with any style, from a trim to a Mohawk. She is a wizard at color. If you live in or are visiting The Heights be sure to drop by, say hi and check out her Art Car, the Venus Hairse and mention you saw her in Natural Awakenings magazine.

Do you want to relieve your pain or tension and maintain those good results? Cecilia Straub Timon, EEMCP, has used and taught Eden Energy Medicine with her clients for several years. She started with Reiki and Brain Gym. She now uses Eden Energy Medicine and tapping as well in her work with clients. These non-invasive techniques derived from ancient healing practices relive tension and pain and increase energy and vitality. Contact her today to see if she can help you.

NaturalAwakeningsHTX

ENERGY MEDICINE 832-423-8318 enerbodybalance.com cecilia@enerbodybalance.com

natural awakenings

March 2017

HEALING COME & BE HEALED 713-302-1313

Rarely will you meet a person so genuinely loving and kind as Josephine. Her work is mental, emotional and spiritual healing for those who are in distress. A consultation with her involves honestly answering questions about your problem that helps her find the likely cause and the course of action you should take to find healing. She has been doing this healing work for years and does it by donation or love gift only so that she can make it available to all regardless of their financial circumstance. She is fluent in both Spanish and English. Call her today to find out if she can help you or to schedule a consultation. Se habla español!

HOLISTIC SHOP

HYPNOSIS

THE CHAKRA HAVEN

CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST

A cute little shop just outside the Old Town Tomball district. Featuring: candles, crystals, jewelry, oils, incense, herbs and more. Also by appointment only: meditation classes, tarot readings a n d C h r i s t i a n n u m e r o l o g y. Meditation 101 each Wednesday at 6-7pm. Call for more information.

We l c o m e t o y o u r transformation! Whether you are looking to change habits such as smoking or weight or looking to find better ways of relaxing and increasing the joy in your life, I can help you. In addition to hypnosis I have a variety of other modalities to help you, including reiki, ThetaHealing and customized essential oil blends and affirmations which can be combined or used individually. Together we form a partnership for your growth! Call today to book your appointment.

402 East Main Street Tomball, TX 77375 346-234-7754 facebook.com/thechakra.heven

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

(by appointment only) 281-849-4610 cautry@gmail.com claudiaautry.com

AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY MINDY KING

Certified Quantum-Touch®, Heal Your Life® mindy@sweetsimplehealing.com 281-684-1956 SweetSimpleHealing.com

Leadership Training for individuals and corporations; Grief Recovery; Quantum To u c h ® I n s t r u c t o r a n d Practitioner, Heal Your Life® Teacher and Coach; fun workshops with LMT CEU’s available. Mindy also works with pet’s and the issues they and their owner encounter. Call today to schedule an appointment. See Ad on page 30.

Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream 973-715-9097 Info@AlbertasPainRelief.com http://www.albertaspainrelief.com/

Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease joint and muscular aches and pains from sciatica, gout, arthritis, neuralgia, fibromyalgia and more. Great buy, a 4oz jar for $15. All natural ingredients! Refer a friend and get 10% off your purchase. Read what people are saying about Aunt Alberta’s Remedy our website and order some today.

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN HOLISTIC WELLNESS COACH GROUND YOUR DIVINITY 427 Carson Ridge Dr. Spring, TX 77386 281-702-3389 www.groundyourdivinity.com

Ground Your Divinity is a holistic wellness company created to help foster the evolution of humanity by working with people on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels and release what is in their way to living the life they were intended to live. This can include consultation and assistance in the areas of fitness, nutrition, lifestyle balance, physical grounding, self-love, emotional release, energy work, meditation, spiritual awakening and enlightenment. Starting with you, we can create a world of health, happiness and peace we all know is possible... one person at a time. Call or visit our website today to set up a free Clarity Session and open to the life of abundance that is waiting for you!

Houston

HBOT AMERICA

8618-B Stella Rd. Houston, TX 77025 832-986-5144 hbotamerica.com

HBOT America provides Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy through the breathing in of 100% oxygen at a greater than normal pressure. HBOT is medically approved by the FDA for 14 uses such as wound healing, osteomyelitis, severe anemia, and more. Also, now introducing our Biodensity machine, which aids in increasing bone density by stimulating the body's natural bone generation process. Biodensity is a safe alternative to high impact activity and helps fight effects of Osteoporosis through four Isometric exercises. Visit our website for more information and pricing or call us today to schedule a session.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

IEL INSTITUTE TRAINING INTUITIVE COMMUNICATION CERTIFICATION WORKSHOPS March 25th & 26th Spectrum Center 2060 N. Loop W #205 Houston, Texas 77018 713-303-7107 chriscarpentier333@gmail.com chris-carpentier.com

Are you a light worker or energy healer? Have you ever dreamed of a full time or part time career in the field of energy work? Maybe you aren’t interested in becoming a practitioner but would like to learn more about this fascinating field for your personal improvement. Chris Carpentier invites you to attend IEL Institute Level 3 Training. This consists of 2 separate one day sessions. In the first on March 25th, the focus will be on the teachings of Dr. Marcel Vogel and his methods of using fine cut crystals as an energy device. The second on March 26th, focuses on sound vibration medicine and the use of crystal bowls. You do not have to attend both workshops. All workshops may be taken as standalone classes or as part of the IEL certification program. Call or email for details or to register. See ad on page 20.

INTEGRATIVE DERMATOLOGY INTEGRATIVE DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATIONS 748 E 12th St, Unit 2 Houston, TX 77008 integrativedermconsults.com 832-639-3376

A Functional Medicine approach to skin disease can be most helpful for chronic skin conditions such as acne, chronic dry skin, eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. The emphasis is on improving skin from the inside out, by addressing underlying nutritional, immune, and other issues. If you have tried everything and still have a skin problem. Visit our website for more information or to set up and appointment.

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 CTHouston.org

Beginning Meditation: (A) Wed, 7:30–9:30pm. (B) Sat, 10am– noon. Children Meditation: Sat 10am–12pm - For children ages 4–12 and parents. One-day Retreat: Fri., Apr. 21, 9am4:30pm. Sat., Apr. 22, 9am-4:30pm. Sun., Apr. 23, 9am-4:30pm. Half-day Retreat: Sun., Mar. 19, 9am-noon. Meditation Workshop: Sun., Mar. 12, 10am-noon. Blessing Ceremony: Sun., Mar. 5, 10am-noon. Sun., Apr. 2, 10am-noon. Check the web site (event calendar) for the most current information. See ad on page 25.

ION FOOT DETOX/ OXYGEN THERAPY HEAL WITH NATURAL HERBS

“The Hippest Little Place in Midtown” 3204 Dowling St. Ste.102 A Houston, TX 77004 832-594-9306/ 281-227-0435/281-7886494 Healwithnaturalherbs.com

Tired of suffering from muscle aches, chronic pain, inflammation, low energy, migraines, allgeries, bloating gas. Ion Foot Detox Special Saturday all-inclusive $50 includes ion foot detox, massage chair, Oxygen Therapy. Call or book online. Saturday appointments only! Available for private parties on days other than Saturday. Call TODAY!

MEDICAL INTUITIVE INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES FOR NATURAL HEALING & WELLNESS LIN WEISS MH, CYT Holistic Healer Medical/ Spiritual Intuitive Master Teacher Houston, Texas 77025 713-858-8595 linweiss@earthlink.net conscioushealingnow.com

Through her WHOLE-istic approach, Lin weaves inspired wisdom with proven healing traditions for integrating mind/ body & soul. ALL NATURAL, ALL THE TIME, she specializes in Homeopathy; Bio-energetic Healing; Neuro-chemical Analysis/ Balance; Chakra Attunement; Nutrition Therapies; Orchid Essences; Zero Energy Balance & more. Addressing a wide range of symptoms, ie: Allergies; ADD/ADHD; OCD: Arthritis; Autistic Spectrum; Chronic Fatigue; Depression; Detoxification; Fibromyalgia; MS; Parkinsons: Trauma Release, etc. Classes: Intuitive Development and Psychology of the Chakras! Call Lin today to find out if she can help you.

DAWN MOUNTAIN CENTER FOR TIBETAN BUDDHISM 2010 Naomi Street, Suite A Houston, TX 77054 Dawnmountain.org

Join us every Sunday morning from 11:00 to 12:00 for free, guided meditation suitable for everyone. You dawn mountain don’t need to know how to meditate before you come. Just need to come and experience meditation for yourself. Led by senior members of the Dawn Mountain sangha (community), this meditation offers a chance to take a mindful pause from your busy life, enjoy serenity and fellowship, and learn a bit more about Buddhist practice at Dawn Mountain. See ad on page 26.

UNIVERSAL DOOR MEDITATION CENTER 2619 Charles Lane Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-565-9718 UniversalDoor.org

Are you ready to Wake Up? Discover Awake mind through Zen meditation. Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien guides students to apply this life-changing tool in all situations. Find out how Awake mind can transform stress, struggles, health issues, and conflicts that you thought were unchangeable facts of life! Attend our FREE Tuesday Meditation 101 class. Tue: Meditation 101, 7-8pm, FREE Drop In Class. Thurs: Meditation Class: Discovering the Awake Within. 7-9pm*. Sun: Movement Meditation for Healing Mind and Body. 9:30-10:30am* Sun: Youth and Teen Program 11am-12:30n*. * = requires pre-registration/class fee. See our ad on page 7.

natural awakenings

NATURAL FOOD GRACE’S NUTRITION MARKET

1421 Spring Cypress Rd. Spring, TX 77373. 281-353-6630 facebook.com/Graces-Nutrition-Market

Grace’s Nutrition Market, your friendly neighborhood health store, packed full of well-seasoned knowledge, friendly advice, and goodies, has been in the same Spring, Texas location for upwards to 40 years, and current owner for at least 20 years. We specialize in any nutritional needs you may encounter in your daily life, from the common cold, to weight loss, or even full body nutritional counseling. Grace’s is home to a wonderful pair, Robyn and Beverly, our Iridologist and Nutritionist. Iridology appointments are available throughout the week, or to just come talk to for good quality you can trust. We look forward to meeting you soon.

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188

Say goodbye to hot flashes, night sweats, depression, PCOS, thyroid problems, low libido and more. There is a 100% natural way to restore your body’s hormone balance without using either synthetic prescription hormones or bio-identical hormones. Your body already knows how to produce the correct amount of hormones. It’s just a matter of stimulating it to do so. Call me today for your FREE consultation and be on your way to a younger body and a good night’s sleep.

NATURAL WATER FILTRATION & TREATMENT ACCENT NATURAL WATER Whole House Water Treatment 23206 I-45 North Spring, TX 77373 281-773-5441 AccentH20.com

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S I N Y O U R WAT E R ? Houston has the 6th worst water in the country. Our system takes out chlorine, pesticides and more. Plus, we treat and condition the water to make it healthier for your family. More than a water softener, table top unit or RO alone. Healthy water from every faucet or shower. Member BBB-A+ rating since the 80’s. Don’t delay. Call Henry today! 281-773-5441

March 2017

NUTRIGENOMICS ANGELLE ADAMS

(832) 472-1366 Angelleadams1@gmail.com

Learn about an all-natural breakthrough that’s redefining healthcare! Activate your body at the cellular level with category-creating technology in the field of nutrigenomics. This unique science has been featured on major television networks and validated in peer-reviewed studies posted by the National Institute of Health! Contact us for more information and a free consultation.

OPTICIAN

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

Can’t lose weight? Feeling Sluggish? Don’t have the energy you used to have? Let us help undo the damage from over-consumption and poor food choices. Our program of fasting, juicing, cleansing and colonics is designed to energize, strengthen and enlighten. All natural, organic, resort and spa. Immerse yourself in personal attention from our staff while indulging in our many body-pampering and beautifying spa treatments. Call of visit our website to book your stay today! See ad on page 28.

FACTORY EYEGLASS OUTLET 7921 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 713-468-5665 factoryfineeyewear.com

Do you need new eyeglasses? Whether you are looking for premium or generic eye ware, Alex Atuesta at Factory Eyeglass Outlet has something for you. They feature both premium Zeise lenses cut in house and generic lenses starting at $99 along with a wide selection of the latest frames. Alex and his staff also do eyeglass repair and offer lifetime adjustments for their customers. Experience their friendly, professional one on one service the next time you need new eyeglasses or need your eyeglasses repaired. Factory Eyeglass Outlet accepts most insurance plans.

ORGANICALLY GROWN PRODUCE PLANT IT FORWARD

“a farm in every neighborhood” 832-983-0405 farmshareprogram@plant-it-forward.org Plant-it-forward.org

Join the Farm Share Program Today! Enjoy your own weekly box of our local, organically grown produce by enrolling in our Farm Share Program. Get 6-8 different varieties, enough for a family of 3-5 each week. Purchase a 5-week mini-season for $132, a perfect gift for your health-conscious loved ones or purchase a 20-week season for $507. The summer vegetables include winter squash (hard squashes), edamame, eggplant, basil, peppers, okra, arugula, basil, cucumbers, green onions, roselle, malabar spinach, possibly cantaloupe if weather cooperates, and even watermelon if weather cooperates. Sign-up today for the Spring 2017 Season! See ad on pages 8 & 32.

Houston

REIKI TRAINING REIKI MASTER JULIA CARROLL, PH.D. SCHOOL of HEALING ARTS 713-822-7380 julia@juliacarroll1.com JuliaCarroll1.com

Julia was the first Reiki Master in the State of Texas, has written 5 healing books and has had university based Reiki research published. Her book, Nu-Reiki Onness, can be found on her website and is FREE. Contact Julia today to schedule an appointment to discuss enrolling in one of her Reiki certification courses.

ST. PAUL’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 5501 Main Street Houston, TX 77004 713-528-0527} stpaulshouston.org

St. Paul’s Houston centers itself around vibrant worship that moves us to Christian mission, hospitality and faith formation for all peoples and communities. St. Paul’s is also home to ProjectCURATE, a multiethnic leadership program on race, solidarity and kinship. Weekly worship on Sundays at 8:30 am, 9:45 am and 11:05 am, and many of our other offerings in the Natural Awakenings calendar. We hope you'll respond to the Spirit leading you to connect and grow with us.

UNITY OF HOUSTON 2919 Unity Drive Houston TX 77057 713-782-4050 Unityhouston.org

Unity of Houston offers positive, practical teachings that support spiritual evolution and abundant living. The Unity movement is open and welcoming of all individuals regardless of race, color, gender, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, physical disability or sexual orientation. We take an extremely positive approach to life, emphasizing our Oneness in God and the goodness in people and all of life. We believe…”Life is meant to be good!” Come and discover it for yourself! See ad on page 3 & 13.

SPIRITUALITY CARMEL TEMPLE

1208 Pennsylvania Street South Houston 775804. 713-944-0014 CarmelTemple.org

Carmel Temple is a quiet sanctuary far away from the outer world of seeming chaos. It is a place of peace, healing, study, teaching, meditation, love, warmth, and friendship. Opened in 1970, Carmel Temple is a loving place made available for all seekers of the Light. Join us in this welcoming environment this Sunday where enlightenment, healing, and especially love are found. See ad on page 8.

GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH 4040 West Bellfort Street Houston, TX 77025 713-666-1408 GraceInHouston.org

We are a welcoming Christian community sharing our spiritual journeys through worship, fellowship and outreach. Grounded in both Episcopal worship and ancient practices, we are faithful to the rich traditions of our church while also open to creative expressions of our faith in worship and ministries. Come and be with us for any or all of our many programs and services.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

UNITY OF NORTH HOUSTON 11738 Grant Road Cypress, Texas 77429 281-374-7085 http://www.unitynorthhouston.org/

Ours is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus - as well as other master teachers and the power of prayer. Unity teaches that each person is a unique expression of God created with sacred worth. Living from that awareness transforms our lives and the world. Unity recognizes that there are many expressions of family life. All are welcome. Unity creates an affirming environment that fosters positive self-image, personal responsibility and unconditional love and acceptance. If you want to know God and to experience God at work in your life, join us on Sundays! You’ll discover a warm, caring community of ordinary people living extraordinary lives.

TEA ROOMS MC HUGH TEA ROOM AND GIFTS 5305 Bissonnet, Suite D Bellaire, TX 77401 713-218-6300 mchughtea.com facebook.com/mchughtea

Tea rooms are trendy and organic teas are ALL the rage, but did you know there’s an elegant, Afternoon Tea that serves over 60 organic teas right under your nose? McHugh Tea Room is setting the pace, serving it up 6 days a week with Texas flare. Owners, Kim McHugh and Billie Stafford tell their customers to “come hungry!” For lunch, foods such as chicken salad sandwich on croissant with chipotle mayo and a side of fresh cut fruit and grandma’s tomato basil soup are served or maybe you prefer a cast iron grilled cheese on sourdough! For special occasions, make a reservation for Afternoon Tea and enjoy inlaid breads of swirled rye and challah which hold between them the family pimento cheese recipe cut into hearts or even adorable ducks shapes for baby shower themes. It’s the perfect place to recharge your spirit or celebrate special moments and wonderful friendships.

THERMOGRAPHY THERMAL IMAGING SERVICES

Angel Marlow, CNHP, CAHC, CCT 5851 San Felipe, Suite 710 Houston, Texas 77057 and 24550 Kingsland Blvd. Katy, TX 77494 713-621-4406 angel@thermalimagingtexas.com ThermalImaingTexas.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 on page 6.

YOGA AYUSH WAVE-AYURVEDA AND YOGA 15263 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-870-2772 ayushwave.com

Maharshi Patanjali is believed to be the founder of yoga through his writings, Patanjali Yoga Sutras. Our Yoga studio teaches patanjali yoga. Ayush Wave specifically focuses on yoga as therapy of specific conditions. We offer yogic classes specific based on your requirements. Please visit our website for information on class timings and pricings.

BAYOU BLISS YOGA

TRANQUIL HEART YOGA

At Bayou Bliss Yoga we focus on cultivating freedom in the body to create freedom in the mind. Our small group, private and semi-private yoga classes to give you the instruction you need to develop more body awareness, flexibility, freedom of movement and greater sense peace and ease. We specialize in therapeutic yoga and beginner’s yoga. Meditation is offered every Tuesday at 7:30pm by donation. We also offer massage, breathwork, hands of light healing, bio-field tuning and sound healing to support your health and wellbeing. The first class is always FREE so call today.

Voted among the top ten yoga studios in Houston last year, our amazing instructors draw from many traditions including Ashtanga Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Thai Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Forrest and the yogic and meditation traditions of Tibet. With this vast knowledge of the yoga tradition and the intrinsic understanding of the human body, our instructors will guide you through a practice that is not only physically challenging, but also mentally stimulating and emotionally uplifting. Our dedication to help you become your best, spiritually, mentally and physically is what makes Tranquil Heart Yoga the premier Hatha Yoga studio of West Houston. We also offer Tai Chi and Qi Gong classes as well as massage and many other wellness modalities. We believe Yoga is for Every Body. Come and find out for yourself!

808 West Main Street Houston, TX 77006 713-955-0900 bayoublissyoga.com

CHANDRA YOGA 4 LIFE 708 Telephone Rd. #C Houston, TX 77023 281-541-8336 chandrayoga4life.com

Welcome! Namaste! Chandra Yoga 4 Life focuses on the 3 major aspects of Yoga incorporating asanas, pranayama and meditation. We work closely with each student, meeting the student where they are Welcome! Call 281-541-8336 Se habla español.

JENNYOGA

at Interface Samaritan 4803 San Felipe Houston, TX 77056 713-539-7418 jennyoga.me

Have you always yearned to experience the many health benefits attributed to yoga, but never known where to begin? Or are you a master yogi already well acquainted with all the physical and mental benefits of yoga, but on the hunt for a new challenge? Either way, you are the perfect candidate for Jennyoga, the ultimate Houston destination for anyone looking to add a calming influence into his or her lifestyle. Classes Wed 12:30 pm and Sunday 11:30 am.

NURTURE SOUL THERAPEUTICS 7062 Lakeview Haven Dr. #100 Houston, TX 77095 281-674-YOGA NurtureSoul.com

Yoga is beneficial for the health in ways that modern science is just beginning to understand. Even though it has been applied with therapeutic intention for thousands of years, Yoga Therapy is only just now emerging as a discipline in itself. Tuesdays 4:00pm to 5:00pm - Yoga for Pain Management. Thursdays 4:00pm to 5:00pm - Beat your Insomnia with Yoga. For Private Yoga Therapy Classes, Massage Therapy, Healing Arts or Integrative Life Coaching Program call and make an appointment.

natural awakenings

12288 Westheimer Road, Suite 380 Houston, TX 77077 (281) 759-6002 info@tranquilheartyoga.com

YOGA FOR MENTAL & PHYSICAL HAPPINESS

FACILITATED BY LIN WEISS, Certified Yoga Therapist, Integrative Hatha Yoga, Tuesdays @ 7:00pm Saturdays @ 9:30am Bellaire, Texas 713-858-8595 linweiss@earthlink.net conscioushealingnow.com

Lin Weiss is the founder/owner of Yoga for Mental & Physical Happiness. Her passion for yoga is evidenced by her warm & personable teaching style. Small classes afford individual instruction for students of any level, making progress attainable & real. Lin loves helping students use yoga to find balance & overcome limitations. Her classes are at the same time energizing, & relaxing, as she focuses on creating a supportive & joyful environment for her students. Private sessions available by appt.

YOGA TRAINING NURTURE SOUL THERAPEUTICS

200 hour & 300 hour Yoga Teacher Training 7062 Lakeview Haven Dr #100 Houston, TX 77095 281-674-YOGA NurtureSoul.com

Nurture Soul Therapeutics is the only RYS offering the 200-hour Integrative Yoga Teacher Training Program in Houston, TX. Along with offering Yoga classes with a focus on health and healing to the general public, graduates teach Yoga-based wellness programs in a wide variety of complementary settings including hospitals, businesses, and health care settings. This program is registered with the Yoga Alliance as a 200-hour Teacher Training certification program (RYT-200) and offers a strong foundation for Advanced Yoga Therapy Programs. 200 hr. Spring-2017 - Every other weekend (Jan-Jun)! Will be offered in Sugar Land at Ayush Wave. 300 hr. Coming on Fall-2017 - Week modules (Jul-Dec)! Will be offered in Copperfield at Nurture Soul. Registration is now open. Contact us TODAY!

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Houston