December 2012 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Have a Light-Filled Holiday

FREE

Homemade, Heartfelt and Joyous

Healthy Holiday Treats

Easy to Bake, Yummy to Eat

ECO-CHRISTMAS Fresh Ways to Green the Season

Gift Guide

LOCAL IDEAS FOR CONSCIOUS GIVING

DECEMBER 2012 | Mobile/Baldwin Edition | www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com natural awakenings

December 2012

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We’ve always been your guide to healthy living and a healthy planet. Now, we’re putting together a directory of local resources that you can refer to all year long.

Health & Wellness•Green & Sustainable Living•Fitness & Nutrition•Personal Growth

Coming in February 2013

The 1st Annual Mobile/Baldwin

Healthy& GREEN Living

DIRECTORY ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS! Reach our health-conscious readers with year-round distribution of this special edition, both in print and online.

Learn more: www.TinyURL.com/DirectoryNA EXAMPLE

Pricing: • $99 for 1st listing • 2nd listing is 50% off • 3rd listing is FREE

ACUPUNCTURE INTEGRATIVE MED SOLUTIONS Dr. Jan Smith, ND, LAC., RH, CHT 123 Main St., Mobile 251-123-4567 • YourWebsite.com

Therapeutic solutions to acute and chronic conditions.

Acupuncture is an intelligent medicine, gentle enough for pregnant women, and powerful enough to treat serious conditions like high blood pressure, chronic pain or insomnia. See ad pg 25.

$148.50 for 3 listings Deadline: January 11, 2013

Each Listing Includes: • Category & 4 Contact Lines • Description (50 words) • Color Photo or Logo

Reduced rates and FREE business profiles with Display Ad in this special edition. Ask us for details!

Reserve your space today! 251-990-9552

Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

contents 8

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5 newsbriefs 7 kudos 8 healthbriefs 9 globalbriefs 11 ecotip 12 consciouseating 15 healingways 19 community

spotlight 20 greenliving 23 healthykids 26 naturalpet 28 fitbody 29 calendar 32 classifieds 33 naturaldirectory

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 251-990-9552 or email Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month prior to the month of publication.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit calendar events and ongoing classes online at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

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 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

12 HEALTHY HOLIDAY BAKING

A Cornucopia of Delicious Treats

15 UNEXPECTED UPSIDE

17

Media Gadgets Can Boost Family Connections

by Lisa Marshall

17 LOCAL GUIDE TO

23

CONSCIOUS GIVING

Gifts of Wellness and Sustainability

by Meredith Montgomery

20 HOMEMADE

AND HEARTFELT Do-It-Yourself Stocking Stuffers

by Meredith Montgomery

23 MINDFUL HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Simple Ways to Add Meaning and Family-Centered Fun

by Barbara Amrhein

26 DOGGY LOST...

AND FOUND AGAIN Microchips Provide Peace of Mind

by Avery Mack

28 BREATHE EASIER

Try These Tips for Better Workouts

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letterfrompublisher Dear Santa, I hope you made it through the dog door okay and I’m sorry that we don’t have a chimney. How was your year? It’s flown by for us but I think we’ve been pretty well-behaved.

Mays continues to work on his listening skills and has really started pulling his own weight around the house. He helps unload the dishwasher, pulls weeds and folds laundry. He also seems to be pretty compassionate for a 3-year-old... he rescued a box turtle, passed out flyers for improvements in our neighborhood park and donated some of his old clothes to Hurrican Sandy victims.

While Josh is still working on the folding laundry thing, he continues to foster critical thinking skills and open minds of the high-schoolers that he teaches and coaches. He’s also rediscovered the meaning of patience and dedication by remaining an Auburn fan, despite their far-from-perfect season.

As you know, I've felt guilty about putting a couple things in the trash that could have been recycled, but we haven’t bought a roll of paper towels since we ran out six months ago. Much of my time is spent publishing this magazine to inspire our community to live healthy, sustainable and meaningful lives.

As the resident bug catcher and guard dog, Rudy has been an angel. Samson, on the other hand, has been sneaking onto the couch when we’re not looking. He makes up for it by being the only one that can keep up with Mays' energy. Parker continues to excel in counter swiping, pantry raiding and trash can invasions, but I appreciate her meticulous efforts to keep our floors crumb-free.

So, did we make your good list? If yes, Mays wants a microphone, Josh would like an iPad, I could use a sewing machine, Rudy wants a stuffed animal to dissect, Sam would appreciate a squeaky toy that is Rudy-proof and Parker would love a platter of sashimi.

But we understand that you are a busy man and truthfully, we have all that we need. We’d rather you bottle up some of the love, light, joy and warmth that fills our home and share it with those in the Northeast that aren’t able to spend the holidays in the comfort of their own homes. These are the real gifts of the season and everyone deserves a fair share.

Before you head that direction, I’ve left you a couple copies of this month’s Natural Awakenings to enjoy with some homemade cookies and Alabama organic milk. Please share a copy with Mrs. Claus, because I think she’ll enjoy the recipes in “Healthy Holiday Baking,” on page 12.

Your elves did not return my calls for an interview, so I had to wing my article on homemade stocking stuffers without their expertise (“Homemade and Heartfelt,” page 20). I hope they approve. And just in case you need a few last-minute gifts while you’re in town, check out our "Local Guide To Conscious Giving," on page 17, for Mobile/ Baldwin sources of healthy and eco-friendly gifts.

Thanks for stopping by our house! Merry Christmas and safe travels!

contact us Publisher/Editor Meredith Montgomery Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com Assistant Editors Martin Miron Gabrielle Wyant-Perillo Contributors Josh Montgomery Anne Wilson Michael Wilson Design and Production Meredith Montgomery Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin P.O. Box 725, Fairhope, AL 36533 Phone: 251-990-9552 Fax: 251-281-2375

HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe to the free digital magazine at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Mailed subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. © 2012 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers.

It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call 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.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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newsbriefs Clean is Simple with Pure Maid Service Pure Maid Cleaning Service offers upscale, full-service housekeeping in Baldwin County, using only the most natural cleaning and aromatherapy products.

Homes are immaculately cleaned with kid-safe and pet-friendly organic materials.

Weekly, biweekly, monthly or one-time services are provided. A customized home spa package is available that will transform any home into a personal retreat with fragrant, healing scents to create an environment that is as soothing as it is clean.

Owner Dawn Goble founded her company on the belief that all homes can be best cleaned without the use of harsh and toxic chemicals.

After dealing with her family’s own allergy issues, she realized that after eliminating commercial products and replacing them with organic cleansers and aromatherapy oils, their symptoms quickly disappeared.

Goble says, “I pride my business on being honest and caring about the unique needs of each household. I enjoy working with the homeowner to address personal conditions with the appropriate aromatherapy oils in the home.”

For more information, call 251-504-0581, email PureMaidCleaningService@ gmail.com or visit PureMaidCleaningService on Facebook. See ad, page 20.

Prana Raises the Bar for Wellness At Prana Health and Wellness, sessions are individually tailored to help achieve personal wellness goals. With expanded hours, private therapeutic yoga sessions and the addition of martial arts classes and couples massage, it is a time to reflect upon the choices we have made throughout this year and to set priorities for the coming year.

Owner Becky Ardrey says, “Think of it as repatterning and creating new habits. The choices we make are often tied to behaviors we have become comfortable with regarding the food we eat, our postural habits and how much television we watch. They may not always be the best choices, but they are often the easiest.”

To get back on track, Prana Health and Wellness looks at a client’s current patterns to make suggestions for positive change. By offering a variety of therapies, the staff assists individuals in meeting their goals.

As incentive during the holiday season, Ardrey is giving free 30-minute massages to clients that buy a one-hour massage for a friend.

Give Canine Pets the Care They Deserve Walks and Wags doggie daycare, in Mobile, believes that diet, exercise, socialization and affection are essential for any pet to live a great life. Because a pet's health and safety are so important, they are insured and bonded and follow OSHA standards in an enriching environment. As a special incentive during December, Natural Awakenings readers receive 10 percent off all services as new customers.

A staff of seven at Walks and Wags cares for dogs by offering plenty of exercise and social interaction with other dogs of similar size. Dogs are fully supervised at all times in yards and kennels throughout the day, playing outside as weather allows.

Walks and Wags is also a fullservice boarding facility. There’s toy time, treat time, nap time and play time. Each dog gets its own five-byfive-foot area alone or to share with a brother or sister. Great bedding is provided, but owners can bring their own, if preferred.

Please call for reservations one to two weeks in advance. In-home pet sitting and dog walking is also available.

Location: 631 Azalea Rd. For more information, call 251-643-1615, email Cindie@WalksAndWags.com or visit WalksAndWags.com. See ad, page 27.

Location: 811 Fairhope Ave. For more information, call 251-455-9359, email Becky@ PranaHealthAndWellness.com or visit PranaHealthAndWellness.com. See ad, page 29. natural awakenings

December 2012

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coverartist

newsbriefs Moondoggies is Open in Orange Beach

The Christmas Star Will Bullas Combining award-winning artistic skills with a humorous point of view, Will Bullas makes fine art fun. The whimsical birds and other animals that populate many of his watercolors reflect the artist’s ebullient sense of sparkle and mischief; plus, he often titles the quirky wildlife works with zany one-liners.

Bullas has been drawing since he was a youth. His first professional pieces were pencil portraits of fellow soldiers in Vietnam sent to loved ones back home.

Returning from military duty, he enrolled in the Brooks Institute of Fine Art, in Santa Barbara, California, and graduated with a degree in oil painting.

Today, Bullas is a signature member of the American Watercolor Society and the National Watercolor Society; in 1986 he was also elected to membership in the Knickerbocker Artists of New York. His art currently enlivens a wide range of products, including high-fashion T-shirts, note cards and coffee mugs, and his books, A Fool and His Bunny and A Fool Moon, include introductions by fans Clint Eastwood and Doris Day.

When asked about the source of his inspiration, Bullas replies, “Absolutely everything—books, music, television… even listening to friends tell stories can evoke some kind of imagery for me. Life is a bottomless well of ideas.”

View the artist’s portfolio at WillBullas.com.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

The new MoonDoggies Natural Health, at the SanRoc Cay Marina, just over the Perdido Pass in Orange Beach, is a non-franchise, family owned store offering a variety of natural health and specialty food products. With an emphasis on healthy, organic, vegan, gluten-free and specialty foods, the shop has a variety of snacks, drinks and quick meals, in addition to a selection of Jane Miller, Moondoggies owner natural supplements and beauty aids.

Owner Jane Miller became interested in making healthy lifestyle changes after picking up a copy of Greater Health God’s Way, by Stormie Omartian, in 1986.

She was then encouraged to read Fit for Life, by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond, which initiated her journey deeper into healthier lifestyle changes.

After several years of self-study, she enrolled in the Clayton College of Natural Health and studied holistic nutrition, and still continues studies in naturopathy, herbology and nutrition through the Trinity School of Natural Health. Miller has recently become interested in gluten-free and autoimmune gut-repair diets.

MoonDoggies encourages neighbors to email or post product requests on Facebook, so they can stock the things customers want most.

For more information, to place an order or arrange delivery, call 251-974-1747 or visit MoondoggiesNaturalHealth.com.

Spirits Lift Despite Hurricane Sandy After one of the largest storms on record hit the Northeast, devastating the shorelines of New York and New Jersey and uprooting the status quo in surrounding states, locals saw a new kind of energy emerge among the populace.

Martinsen and volunteers Kelly Martinsen, publisher of the Long Island edition of Natural Awakenings and a resident of Long Beach, New York, joined the corps of volunteers that are helping families and businesses dig out of the ruins of their once beautiful beach town. In turn, her magazine’s advertisers and neighboring publishers reached out to share their office space, homes and other heartfelt help to keep her own business afloat. “While I have lost much, I feel blessed to have lived through this event,” says Martinsen. “I was able to experience the wonderful nature of people helping people in the days after the storm.”

Tina Woods, publisher of Natural Awakenings’ New York City edition, changed the role of her delivery truck from distributing magazines to carrying food to residents and volunteers assisting Gerritsen Beach neighborhoods, in Brooklyn. She also participated in recovery work along the Jersey Shore and collaborated with her advertisers to raise $1,000 for relief efforts. Woods observes, “In times like this, you know what it means to truly be local and look to the people immediately next to you to get by.”

To join or support coordinated Hurricane Sandy relief efforts vetted by Charity Navigator, visit Tinyurl.com/JoinHurricaneSandyRelief.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

New Exhibit at Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

kudos

Tinker, play, explore and create in the newest exhibit at The Exploreum, in Mobile. The 6,500-square-foot Scratch Factory—Design, Build, Invent, is an open and stimulating environment meant to bring out the budding engineers, inventors, artists or designers in all ages.

Science centers worldwide are infusing the arts as mainstays of their educational STEM programming (science, technology, engineering and math) to fuel ingenuity and prepare the world’s future thought leaders.

Four areas comprise the Scratch Factory: ExploreTEC, TinkerWorks, ArtWorks and AeroWorks. Participants in each area can work independently or as a team, experimenting with simple materials that include circuits, batteries, cloth, paper, sticks, glue and tape to solve challenges, or create their own.

Alabama voters have approved a 20-year extension of the Forever Wild Land Trust in the November 6 election. Approximately 75 percent supported Amendment One, and more people voted either for or against it than any other amendment on the ballot. That margin of victory was the largest of any conservation referendum in the United States.

The Forever Wild Program, funded by a portion of the profits generated from natural gas production, was established in 1992 by constitutional amendment to provide for the purchase of public lands. Since its inception, the program has preserved lands for recreation, nature preserves and made additions to wildlife management areas and state parks.

Admission is free to Exploreum members, $10 for children 2-12, $10.50 for youth 13-18 and seniors 60-plus and $12 for adults. Location: 65 Government St., Mobile. For more information, call 251-208-6873 or visit Exploreum.com.

Fairhope drinking water has officially been declared “best tasting” from samples supplied by communities all over Alabama and Mississippi. Fairhope Water Superintendent Dan McCrory picked up Fairhope’s Best Tasting Water award at the annual meeting of the Alabama/Mississippi Section of the American Water Works Association, a regional division of a national organization, held from October 14 to16, in Mobile.

McCrory says, “I’ve been chasing an award like this for several years… needless to say, I was pleased for Fairhope’s water to be selected best tasting.” Water samples were rated on color, clarity and taste. He continues, “Our crews constantly strive to maintain our water quality to standards that exceed requirements by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management and the Environmental Protection Agency. I think we have a good chance of winning at the national level.”

Parachutes at Scratch Factory

Celebrate 10 Days of Gulf Coast Citrus To kick off 10 Days of Citrus, a Citrus Celebration will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 1, at Mobile Botanical Gardens. A selection of poinsettias, greenery and citrus will be for sale, plus children’s craft activities are planned for the whole day.

After that, for the next 10 days, favorite restaurants will create signature dishes and beverages featuring the flavors of Gulf Coast citrus, which includes satsumas, Meyer lemons, clementines and kumquats.

Participating restaurants include Avalon 360, The Bull, Café 219, Café 615, Cammie’s Old Dutch, Cream & Sugar, The Crooked Martini, Dragonfly Food Bar, Fuego Coastal Mex, Guido’s, Italian Fisherman, Kitchen on George, La Pizzeria, Liquid/OK Bicycle Shop, Little House Midtown, Los Arcos, NoJa, The Royal Scam, True Midtown Kitchen, Via Emilia and The Wash House.

Enter the Taste of Citrus Recipe Contest by submitting a favorite recipe using Gulf Coast citrus by December 10 for a chance to win a Gulf Coast Citrus prize package.

For more information, visit AlabamaForeverWild.com.

For more information about the award or Fairhope's water department call 251-928-8003.

Location: 5151 Museum Dr., Mobile. For more information and entry forms, visit MobileBotanicalGardens.org. natural awakenings

December 2012

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healthbriefs

Raisins Yield Pressure Relief

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or individuals seeking a natural way to keep slightly elevated blood pressure in check, eating a handful of raisins each day might do the trick. New data presented at the American College of Cardiology 61st Annual Scientific Session suggest that among adults with hypertension or mild increases in blood pressure, routine consumption of raisins may lower readings, especially compared with eating other common snacks. The researchers noted that raisins are packed with potassium, which is known to lower blood pressure, and are also a good source of antioxidant dietary fiber, which may favorably alter the biochemistry of blood vessels, enabling them to be less stiff.

The study helps validate some current nutrient recommendations, such as 60 raisins—about a handful, containing one gram of fiber and 212 milligrams of potassium—as being helpful in the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in three (28 percent) of American adults have prehypertension, defined as a systolic pressure from 120 to 139 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or a diastolic pressure from 80 to 89 mm Hg.

Researchers cautioned that their study was small; larger trials are needed.

Pitfalls of No-Fat Salad Dressings

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or those thinking about balancing a rich holiday meal by choosing a low- or no-fat salad dressing, consider this: To get the most nutrients from leafy greens and vegetables, we need to pair them with a healthy fat. A recent Purdue University study showed that the more “good” fat there was in a salad, the more carotenoids diners absorbed.

The researchers found that vegetable oils rich in monounsaturated fats like olive oil, or polyunsaturated fats like sunflower oil, help the body absorb essential carotenoids and other nutrients and increase their bioavailability in the intestines. The study also found that eating bread with butter with a salad was also beneficial, although to a lesser extent.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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A Wise Man’s Gift for Arthritis Sufferers

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rankincense, an aromatic resin obtained from Boswellia trees native to Africa, is an age-old herbal remedy that may help alleviate the pain of arthritis, according to scientists at Cardiff University, in Wales. “The search for new ways of relieving the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis is a long and difficult one,” says Dr. Emma Blain, who led the research with co-investigators Professor Vic Duance, from Cardiff University’s School of Biosciences, and Dr. Ahmed Ali, of the Compton Group. The team believes they have been able to demonstrate that treatment with an extract of Boswellia frereana—a rare frankincense species—inhibits the production of key inflammatory molecules and helps prevent the breakdown of cartilage tissue that causes the condition.

The African Somali people have long used extracts of frankincense as a traditional remedy for arthritis. “Our research achieved the use of innovative chemical extraction techniques to determine the active ingredient in frankincense,” says Ali. “We will now be able to further characterize the chemical entity and compare its success against other anti-inflammatory drugs used for treating the condition.”

globalbriefs

Discover a new way to Leaf Relief

Urban Trees Act as Crime-Stoppers The city of Baltimore’s high crime rate inspired a gritty TV drama. But a new study (Tinyurl.com/TreeCrimeReport) by the University of Vermont’s Transportation Research Center, in Burlington, found that a 10 percent increase in trees in a given area led to a 12 percent decrease in crime. “It’s really pretty striking how strong this relationship is,” says Austin Troy, lead author of the study, published in the journal Landscape and Urban Planning.

Researchers examined the correlation in and around Baltimore using aggregated crime data and combining it with high-resolution satellite images to conduct the analysis. The working hypothesis is that because people enjoy spending time in pleasant outdoor spaces, there are more observers present to hinder criminal activity. Also, a well-maintained landscape seems to send a message that someone may be watching.

To avoid culture bias, the study considered many socioeconomic factors, including housing, age, income and race of residents, as well as variables such as rural versus city setting and population density. The findings should prove helpful to urban planners.

Many Tongues Human Rights Day is December 10 The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. Now, the office of the high commissioner for human rights has been awarded the Guinness World Record for having collected, translated and disseminated the declaration into more than 380 languages and dialects, from Abkhaz to Zulu, making it the world’s most universal communication.

The work sets out a broad range of fundamental human rights and freedoms to which all men and women everywhere are entitled, without distinction. It was drafted by representatives from all regions and legal traditions, and has over time been accepted as a contract between governments and their peoples.

Visit Tinyurl.com/UN-HumanRightsDeclaration.

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We’re Here to Help You Reach Your Goals!

With nearly 30 years of doing business in Mobile, the staff and management of The Health Hut are excited to now offer their expertise and guidance in helping you reach your health and fitness goals on the Eastern Shore.

se Hou e store n e n Op ew Daph 4-5! ry e n t a th Janua on

Mobile: 251-633-0485

680 S. Schillinger Rd. (across from Home Depot)

NEW LOCATION! Daphne: 251-621-1865 6845 Hwy 90 (across from Home Depot)

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Vitamins, Herbs & Minerals Sports Nutrition Weight Loss Products Children’s Health Antioxidants/Longevity Products • Organic & Whole Food Items

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Come by and talk with a member of our trained, knowledgeable staff who will provide you with safe and effective solutions for your wellness needs.

Here’s 10% off your purchase if you do!

Offer not valid on sale items. Expires 3/1/13.

natural awakenings

December 2012

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Conscious Giving

Meaningful gifts for the most meaningful people in your life. This holiday season give gifts of health, wellness & sustainability.

MoonStone

For your health and healing.

Happy Healing Holidays Massage Package Specials

Don't miss our 2012 Guide to Conscious Giving on page 17!

3 1-hr massages: $200 3 1.5-hr massages: $270 Give as 1 gift or split into 3!

GIVE THE GIFT OF RELIEF

251-517-5383 Moonstone-Massage.com

17048 Scenic Hwy 98 in Fairhope

HOLIDAY GIFT CARD SPECIAL!

BUY ONE

GET ONE HALF OFF (excludes 30 minute massages)

First massage at the walk-in rate.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Offer expires 12/31/12.

6920 Airport Blvd, Ste 111

Cannot be combined with any other offers. across from Providence hospital

251.342.6415

elementsmassage.com/mobile

Shop til you rock.

Many independent Downtown Mobile retailers are now open until 8pm on Thursday evenings.

Shop. Dine. Shop. Play.

mydowntownmobile.com

downtown mobile. it’s a life with style.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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ecotip Green Christmas Paradise Island Tan

All Natural Airbrush Tan Guaranteed Beautiful Tan with No Streaks or Orange Color Single- Group- Monthly Packages Available

Buy One Tan for $35, Get One Free when you mention this ad!

Located at Pink Diamonds Bridal & Hair Salon 229 20th St. Suite 5 in Gulf Shores Across from Hope’s Cheesecake

We’re mobile..we will come to you!

251-284-8773 www.paradiseislandtan.yolasite.com

NAN DISCOUNT CARDS!

Buy One, Get One Free!

2 Cards for $40 A gift of wellness that lasts all year!

Tinyurl.com/NANCard

We’ve got gifts!

Fair-Trade Jewelry Aromatherapy Products Natural Soaps and Candles Organic Wine Handmade Cards Gift Certificates

Fairhope: Mobile: 251-928-0644 251-345-0494 VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Holiday Planet Savers

Here are some fresh ways to tweak family traditions for a greener holiday this and every year.

Incorporate local, sustainable cuisine into the family feast. Ingredients for a traditional holiday dinner can travel up to 30,000 miles. Instead, show support for local community farmers and reduce food transportation miles by choosing a heritage turkey or meatless entrée. Stellar complements may include organic cranberry jelly, mulled apple cider or wine from an area farm, orchard or vineyard.

Adopt or recycle the Christmas tree. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as many as 33 million live-cut Christmas trees are purchased each year in North America, and most end up in landfills. Fortunately, Christmas tree adoption services like Central California’s Rent a Living Christmas Tree are popping up across the country, allowing them to go on living. The potted trees can be rented and delivered.

If tree adoption services are not yet available locally, make sure to recycle a live holiday tree so it’s turned into landscape mulch for reuse as ground cover to hinder weeds and nourish plantings.

Reduce energy costs through efficient cooking.

Wait to fire up the oven until the heritage turkey or organic ham is ready to go in; preheating is unnecessary for these slow-roasting items. For baked goods, opt for glass or ceramic pans, which allow cooking time to remain the same while lowering the heat by about 25 degrees. Another energy-saving trick is to place stovetop cookware on the smallest burner possible; more heat will embrace the pan, while less is lost to the surrounding air. A six-inch pan on an eight-inch burner typically wastes more than 40 percent of the energy generated. Crockpots work well for serving other small family dinners during the busy holiday season or anytime; an entire meal requires about 17 cents worth of electricity.

At cleanup time, load up the dishwasher fully. One load of dishes scrubbed in a dishwashing machine uses 37 percent less water than washing the same dishes by hand.

Send plant-able holiday cards. According to CalRecycle, an estimated 2.6 billion holiday cards are sold each year in the United States, enough to fill a football field 10 stories high. This year, instead of the usual snail mail, send a bouquet of flowers for the price of a stamp. Recipients can plant a GreenFieldPaper.com grow-a-note holiday card in the ground and see wildflowers bloom. For plant-able holiday cards that can be personalized with a corporate logo, BotanicalPaperworks.com offers card sets and party favors.

natural awakenings

December 2012

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HEALTHY HOLIDAY BAKING

A Cornucopia of Delicious Treats

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here’s nothing so comforting as the scent and taste of home-baked treats. To fill a home with cheer, try these delectably healthy recipes. Some are gluten- or dairy-free, others pack less butter and sweeteners (thus fewer calories) than their typical counterparts, and a few are vegan (containing no animal products, including honey). All are perfect for holiday celebrations, hostess gifts or exchanges.

Gluten-Free Apricot Scones These scones freeze well and taste even better the next day, warmed for 30 seconds in a microwave. Serve with apricot jam or honey.

Yields 8 servings (342 calories per serving)

1½ cups brown rice flour ½ cup tapioca flour 1 /3 cup potato starch 2½ tsp baking powder 2½ tsp xanthan gum ¼ cup natural cane sugar ½ tsp salt ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter, cubed 5 eggs (divided) ½ cup plus 1–2 Tbsp plain low-fat yogurt ¾ cups dried apricots, finely chopped ½ tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp almond extract 1 Tbsp water ¼ cup turbinado sugar Preheat oven to 350° F. Sift together first 7 ingredients (brown rice flour through salt). Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse meal.

Eat Well. Live Well. Be Well.

The Pure Vegan Wellness Services Meal-delivery & Menu Consulting Health & Wellness Coaching Yoga Group Classes & Private Sessions Plant-Based Cooking Classes Tracey Winter Glover JD, RYT 200 • AFPA Certified Nutrition & Wellness Consultant

Learn more at www.ThePureVegan.com tracey@thepurevegan.com • (251) 510-2418

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In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, yogurt, apricots and extracts. Add to flourbutter mixture. Mix until just combined.

Dust work surface with brown rice flour.

Turn out scone mixture and pat into a nine-by-nine-inch square. Cut scones into desired shape or use a biscuit cutter.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Whisk remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush mixture over scones.

Sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden.

Apple-Walnut Coffee Cake

Here’s a favorite yummy treat for festive brunches. Guests and family will never guess that this decadent indulgence contains much less butter and sugar than a typical coffee cake.

Yields 16 servings (239 calories per serving) ¼ cup light brown sugar 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2¼ cups whole-wheat pastry flour (divided) ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter at room temperature 1 cup maple sugar 2 eggs ¼ cup plus 1 Tbsp low-fat buttermilk (1 percent)

2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced ½ cup walnuts, chopped and toasted Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

Butter pan sides and top of parchment.

In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cinnamon and ¼ cup flour. Cut in ¼ cup cold butter until mixture becomes crumbly and resembles a streusel topping. Refrigerate until ready to use.

In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together ½ cup room-temperature butter and maple sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in buttermilk and vanilla. Sift remaining 2 cups flour, baking soda and salt into egg-butter mixture.

Mix until just combined.

Fold in apples and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool before releasing from pan.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Muffins

These lightly sweetened, butter-free muffins evoke the scents and tastes of the holidays. With fewer carbs and calories than regular sugar, the concentrated fruit-juice reduction also adds moistness; look for all-natural options, such as Wax Orchards’ Fruit Sweet.

Yields 16 servings (145 calories per serving) 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt ½ tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp ground allspice 1 cup pumpkin purée 2 /3 cup fruit-juice reduction (or light agave nectar) ½ cup canola oil

¼ cup coconut milk ½ cup unsweetened coconut, shredded 1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted ¾ cup dried cranberries Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with baking cups.

Sift together flours, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and allspice in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin purée, fruit-juice reduction or agave, oil and coconut milk. Stir wet mixture into dry until just incorporated (do not overmix). Fold in coconut, walnuts and dried cranberries.

Divide batter evenly among muffin tins.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

Healthy Red Velvet Cupcakes

These moist cupcakes use spelt flour for a lighter texture, more protein and fewer calories than wheat flour. Avoid artificial colors by using vegetable-based food coloring, or make your own.

Yields 8 to 10 servings (352 calories per serving) Cupcakes 1½ cups white spelt flour 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed) ½ cup natural cane sugar ½ cup melted coconut oil (or safflower oil) 2 eggs at room temperature ¾ cup buttermilk at room temperature 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp lemon juice 3 tsp natural red food coloring Agave Cream-Cheese Frosting 8 oz Neufchâtel (reduced-fat) cream cheese at room temperature 3 Tbsp plus 1 tsp agave nectar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp cornstarch Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a muffin tin with 8 to 10 cupcake liners or coat with cooking spray.

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

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

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir just until mixture comes together. Do not overmix.

Gently spoon batter into muffin cups.

Bake 10 minutes and test with a toothpick. If it doesn’t come out clean, turn pans and bake another 3 to 5 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool on rack for 2 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely before frosting. (Or store in an airtight container until ready to frost. Do not refrigerate, which dries them out.)

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

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natural awakenings

December 2012

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healingways

Unexpected Upside Media Gadgets Can Boost Family Connections

by Lisa Marshall

W

itness a gadget-obsessed family at the dinner table and it is easy to conclude that technology is fracturing family life: Mom’s emailing her boss; Dad’s watching a YouTube video on his tablet; sister’s texting her boyfriend; and little brother is playing Angry Birds on his smart phone. No one is talking with each other.

But dysfunctional dinner habits aside, it appears cell and Internet technologies haven’t turned out to be as harmful as once predicted.

“When we started this research, the dominant thought was that Internet technology would make us lonely, socially isolated and threaten our family lives,” says Lee Rainie, director of the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project. “We have been asking people about this now for 12 years in our surveys and the dominant answer is ‘Actually, we feel more connected with our families than we did before.’”

Web-conferencing systems like Skype have enabled family members across the globe to chat for free and also

see each other. Social networking sites like Facebook have enabled previously out-of-touch siblings to share photos and revive contact. According to Pew studies since 2008, cell phones have led married couples to talk more during the day and parents to maintain more open lines of communication with their kids.

“There always seems to be anxiety in raising a teen, and now a lot of that can be alleviated,” says Larry Rosen, Ph.D., a research psychologist at California State University and author of Me, MySpace, and I: Parenting the Net Generation. “A scared mom or dad can text their kid, saying ‘R U OK?’ and get a one-word answer back, whereas before that kid would have had to find a pay phone, maybe wouldn’t have done it and Mom and Dad would have panicked.”

Rosen’s own research suggests that social networking can actually teach teens to be more empathetic, a trait that enhances their bonds with family members. For example, a cousin will post on Facebook that her cat died, then the teen responds warmly and their bond tightens.

The teen gains empathy useful in face-toface experiences.

“Research from the Pew Center has shown that active social networkers tend to have more friends and support and be more involved with their communities and families,” Rainie maintains, while cautionary studies from the Kaiser Family Foundation suggest that kids unhealthily obsessed with media tend to have lower grades and get into trouble at school.

Overall, according to a 2011 study by the Barna Group, a Ventura, California, research firm, 32 percent of parents and 47 percent of teens say technology has made their family life better, while 18 percent of parents and 6 percent of teens say it has worsened, because the news is not all good.

Consider how, instead of sitting down to watch a show together, family members often are in a room or vehicle watching their own show on their own tiny screen.

“People miss social moments around them because they are communicating with the network inside the screen, rather than the world immediately surrounding them,” says Rainie. (On the flip side, Rainie notes, families often share those moments with each other, too, like a funny YouTube video or a picture on Facebook.)

Rosen cautions that the smart phone could be a pivotal game-changer if consumers aren’t careful. “We are already finding that most people under the age of 40 check their phones every 15 minutes or less, and if they can’t, they become highly anxious. Their whole social world appears channeled through this device, and that is worrisome.”

Both Rosen and Rainie stress that the key to making any technology a positive for family dynamics is to set rules at the outset and know when to unplug. Here are some guidelines to consider.

Cell phones. Everyone can check their phone messages before dinner and then power it down while the family is eating. Don’t use phones in bed, or in the hour before sleeping, which can be particularly detrimental to a teen’s rest, Rosen’s research shows.

Facebook. “When your child says, ‘All of my friends are on Facebook and I feel left out,’ that is probably the time to let them join Facebook,” advises Rosen.

natural awakenings

December 2012

15

Reserve the right to look at their page periodically with them. Each parent and child pair can decide if they should “friend” each other, but don’t assume that gives a parent a backstage pass to the child’s personal life.

Pew reports that 80 percent of parents whose children use social media have friended their child. However, “Insisting that your child friend you on Facebook is often an invitation for them to set up a phantom, or fake page,” notes Rosen.

Smart phones and tablets. Set specific times to ban technology. “As couples, we used to retire to bed at night and watch TV and talk. Now we watch TV, check our phone and play Words with Friends games, and that has taken the place of intimate communication.” It helps to set specific times to check the phone and leave it off for big chunks of time.

Lisa Marshall is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Personal Media Use Stats n Kids ages 8 to 18 spend seven hours, 38 minutes per day with media, including video, TV, music and the Internet n 77 percent of teens own cell phones; 35 percent of adults own a smart phone n 38 percent of cell phone owners use it during TV com mercials n 13 percent of cell phone owners say they have used their phone to avoid interacting with people Sources: Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project; Kaiser Family Foundation

16

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Local Guide to

Conscious Giving

by Meredith Montgomery

F

or this year’s gift-giving season, Natural Awakenings has gathered meaningful and practical gift ideas from local businesses. While shopping for friends and family, try practicing conscious consumerism with these ideas for gifts of wellness and sustainability.

Shop Late, Shop Local

It’s tempting to shop online, but it’s best for the health of the planet and the local economy to shop locally. In an effort to make holiday shopping more accessible to those with full schedules, downtown Mobile merchants are hosting a Shop

by Moonlight campaign. Participating businesses are staying open late on Thursday evenings through the first of the New Year.

“Instead of rushing from work to shop with just a few minutes to browse, head downtown, where you can grab a bite, have a drink and check things off your Christmas list until 8 p.m.,” says Downtown Mobile Alliance Communications Director Carol Hunter. “The participating local, independent merchants believe shopping can be an enjoyable experience… even during the holidays.

Consumers can help the local economy by supporting these stores—think big by shopping small!”

Stop by Lunatix & Co. for an eclectic selection of handmade and upcycled gifts for everyone on your list. Highlights include handmade coin purses and makeup bags, all-natural lotion bars and one-of-a-kind jewelry made from found

objects and old jewelry pieces. Walk down to LoDa to browse The Urban Emporium, which houses several vendors under one roof. There, you’ll find eco-friendly pet products, an organic bakery, repurposed furniture, garden accessories and vintage clothing. For a full list of Shop by Moonlight merchants, visit MyDowntownMobile.com.

Accessories with a Conscience

If jewelry is on a loved one’s wish list, look for pieces that are made of sustainable materials or that raise funds for a worthy cause. Locally owned Manning Jewelry (ManningJewelry.com), in Foley, has been serving customers since 1949 and proudly carries Ember, a fair-trade line of jewelry.

Ember exists to renew hope in women in Uganda through the creation and sale of jewelry. Made from recycled paper and plastic, the affordable line supports the livelihood and dreams of the women that make the pieces.

Fair-trade jewelry can also be purchased from Soul of Somanya (see “Soul of Somanya: Gifts That Change the World,” page 19) and at Fairhope Health Foods.

of perennial bulbs and a third layer of perennial plants.

Owner Patricia Whiteside says, “Perennials can be enjoyed year after year. As the plants mature and multiply, customers have the option of dividing the bulbs to expand the size of their flowerbeds. We help homeowners improve their yard, by the yard!” The planting area can be any shape, including borders.

Presents That Pamper

With busy calendars and long to-do lists, everyone can use a little pampering this time of year. MoonStone Massage (Moonstone-Massage.com) has put together gift baskets for $100 that include a one-hour massage certificate, one of their signature soy candles, a bar of organic, locally made soap and assorted organic teas. During December, they are also offering three one-hour massages for $200 or three one-and-a-half-hour massages for $270. Clients have the option to purchase these as gift certificates and divide the sessions into three separate gifts.

MoonStone therapists Hollie Tew and Jeannie Jaeger help their clients achieve optimal health and healing through therapeutic massage. The therapists recently started offering Abhyanga, a traditional ayurvedic massage that incorporates hot Indian oils to balance and rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

Julie E. Brent, owner of Reiki Center of Fairhope (ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com) says, “By giving a gift of health and healing such as a gift certificate for Reiki, you are expressing your care for the recipient in a health conscious way.”

Reiki Center of Fairhope’s mission is fostering health and wellness for the local community by primarily offering Reiki sessions and workshops, as well as a variety of other healing options

Gifts That Grow

Blue Flower Gardens offers the gift of a flower-filled landscape that lasts for years: no green thumb required. For $100 per yard, the Fairhope-based company will organically amend the customer’s soil, plant two layers natural awakenings

December 2012

17

Give a gift that keeps on giving all year long... the Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Card!

These businesses now accept your NAN card!

Buy One Get One Free!

HOLIDAY GIFT SPECIAL

Pay only $40 for 2 cards.

Offer expires January 30, 2013

NAN Cards are accepted at more than 75 businesses in Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Health Food Stores Yoga & Fitness Studios Eco-Friendly Retailers Chiropractors Essential Oil Distributors Florists Massage Studios Restaurants Pet Care Businesses

“Conscious giving is simply a gift of thoughtfulness... when the recipient knows, without doubt, that this gift came from the heart.”

Jeannie Jaeger, MoonStone Massage such as massage, reflexology and sound healing. The center is offering holiday gift certificates that can be redeemed for any services or workshops.

Amanda McFadden, owner of Paradise Island Tan (ParadiseIslandTan. Yolasite.com) in Gulf Shores, suggests airbrush tanning as a gift that is good for people of all ages. “Everyone loves a nice-looking tan, especially when it’s all natural,” says McFadden. Paradise Island Tan uses solutions that are free of artificial dyes, chemicals and toxins. Continuous application of their airbrush tans helps to improve the overall appearance and glow of skin with anti-aging ingredients and streak-free results. This month, McFadden is offering customers a free session when they buy one at $35. Gift certificates are available at these special rates, as well.

Healthy Living Discounted

Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) cards are gifts that keep on giving all year long. NAN is a network of healthand planet-conscious businesses that offers exclusive and unlimited savings to members. Cardholders enjoy discounts at 75 local providers and more than 1,000 throughout the U.S. for 12 months. NAN’s extensive network encompasses health food stores, yoga and fitness studios, eco-friendly retailers, massage studios, restaurants, pet care businesses and outdoor recreational companies.

Recreation & Travel Companies

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TinyURL.com/NANCard Or call 251-990-9552 18

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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Convenient and easy to use, NAN cards are great gifts that support a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle. Until January 30, when a discount card is purchased for $40 at TinyURL.com/NANCard, a second card can be ordered for free.

For the Furry Family Members

Before purchasing another squeaky toy or rawhide bone for the four-legged members of the family, consider conscious gift alternatives for Fido, too. If your dog usually spends the day at home alone while everyone else is at work, gift him or her a day out of the house at Walks and Wags (WalksAndWags.com). This full-service doggy daycare facility in Mobile offers canines a fun-filled, social environment that fosters health and happiness.

Massage and energy techniques are not just for people. Pamper pets by gifting sessions from Prana Health and Wellness (PranaHealthAndWellness.com) to the animals in your family. Most pets love to be touched and enjoy the therapeutic and healing benefits of massage. Reiki is a great technique for pets that have behavioral issues or have suffered from a trauma. Prana owner Becky Ardrey sees pets by appointment and is available for house calls, as well.

Now, grab the reusable shopping bags and consciously start making a dent in the gift list!

elders in the hands of her younger sisters, she borrows three cedis (dollars) from an aunt for a one-way tro-tro (mini-bus) ticket to Accra. For days, she walks from shop to shop, asking for work, then begging for work, and finally begging for food. She competes at one point with snarling dogs for some scraps of huache a storekeeper throws out to them. By the third night, she is dizzy and sick with hunger.

She wanders the poorly lit streets, shying away from men that approach her, their intentions written on their faces. But after a week or two, she stops shying away. She has no choice if her family is to survive.

Soul of Somanya works to raise the standard of living in this small town. The organization doesn’t offer charity in the usual sense. Instead, it offers jobs—real, living-wage employment. Young artisans report for work five days a week at the Soul of Somanya “factory”, a pleasant house with a long, shaded patio. There, they work in the cooler outdoor air, with plenty of light and a fan for hotter weather. They put in six-hour days with breaks and an hour off for lunch. Their health insurance and social security fees are paid for them, and they receive generous bonuses each December to help make the holidays a time of extra bounty.

The benefits trickle down to the community at large. Not only does the organization source nearly all of its materials locally, but Soul of

To shop for eco-friendly, fair-trade jewelry and other gift items or to arrange a homeparty/sale for churches, civic or social groups, call 251-391-1008 or visit SoulOfSomanya.net.

Melody MacDuffee is the executive director of Soul of Somanya.

manya

he nonprofit Soul of Somanya organization serves at-risk young adults in the small town of Somanya, in Ghana, West Africa.

This is a place of abject poverty, where most people subsist on about two dollars a day. Soul of Somanya’s artisans, however, support themselves and their families with sufficiency and dignity by creating colorful jewelry and other beaded products out of the recycled-glass beads, which is the traditional art form of their tribe. Without these jobs, their prospects would be very grim.

One typical 19-year-old girl lives with her father, her ailing mother, three younger siblings and an elderly grandmother. Like most families in rural Ghana, hers is extremely poor, with no running water or flush toilet, and no refrigerator. She cooks the family’s meals over an open fire and washes their clothing by hand. Twice a day, she walks half a mile to a muddy pond where she fills a tub with murky water and carries it home on her head for the family’s drinking, washing and cooking needs. Ever since she turned 18 (the legal working age), she has been looking for a job so that she can help her family out financially, as well, but so far she has had no success.

When her father suddenly becomes ill, there is no such thing as disability insurance, welfare or food stamps. The few pesois (pennies) she has been bringing in each day selling onions and cassava roots from her mother’s backyard garden are now the family’s only income.

The girl must find a job. Leaving her

ul of So

T

by Melody MacDuffee

y of So

Gifts thatChange the World

MacDuff

ee teach

courtes

Soul of Somanya:

Somanya’s artisans now have well-earned cash to spend in the town’s shops and markets. The local merchants are happy to have new customers. Everyone wins.

Eager to learn, the workers take pleasure in discovering their own creativity as they come up with original designs for distinctive jewelry, colorful key chains and decorative fan pulls. Their signature items are beautifully wire-worked and hand-carved “Adinkra” symbols that are incorporated into earring and rosary designs. With meanings ranging from “Grace under hardship” to “The divinity of Mother Earth,” these traditional African pieces make wonderfully unique and meaningful gifts.

If we care enough, we can take the opportunity every single time we spend money to change the world a little bit for the better. Each time we choose to buy ethically produced goods we cast a vote in favor of fair pay and humane working conditions for the producers of those goods. We also decide where our money is going to end up, whether in the wallet of a CEO, in a struggling small-business owner’s family bank account or in the frayed pocket of a 19-year-old breadwinner in West Africa.

A $17 purchase from Soul of Somanya means a whole week of full bellies, proper schooling and decent medical care for a Ghanaian family.

ing artis

ans.

photos

communityspotlight

19

greenliving

Homemade and Heartfelt Do-It-Yourself Stocking Stuffers

by Meredith Montgomery

“W

ith the volume of household waste soaring 34 percent beyond normal levels in the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day it’s particularly important to remain eco-conscious during the holidays,” says Anna Getty, author of I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas.

“It’s easy to get so wrapped up in buying gifts and decorations that eco-friendliness goes out the window.”

This year, consider giving the family’s stocking stuffers a sustainable makeover by gifting homemade items. Getty observes, “Useful, thoughtful homemade gifts can be really sweet… and green.”

A Jar for Everyone With a ribbon and label of instructions, inexpensive canning jars and glass containers filled with homemade goodies can become creative and practical gifts for everyone on the list.

Sugar body scrubs offer a simple and affordable home spa experience.

Combine two cups of sugar with one cup of oil (sweet almond, grapeseed or olive) and add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils to scent. Try a combination of rosemary and peppermint for an invigorating morning scrub or lavender and vanilla to unwind later.

Fill jars with ingredients for some simmering home aromatherapy. Labels instruct recipients to boil the contents in a small saucepan of water, and then reduce heat to simmer, adding water as needed.

Combine evergreen sprigs, cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried apple peels and citrus rinds for a festive holiday scent. Lemon, rosemary and vanilla afford a refreshing alternative.

For family grill masters, obtain bulk spices for barbecue rubs at a health food store. A basic recipe from DadCooks Dinner.com combines four tablespoons paprika, four tablespoons brown sugar, two tablespoons chili powder, one tablespoon freshly ground black pepper, two teaspoons garlic powder, two teaspoons onion powder and one teaspoon dried thyme.

Upcycled and Sewn Experienced crafters can follow online guidelines to upcycle fabric scraps and unwanted clothing and linens. An old sweatshirt or sweater becomes an iPad case and colorful T-shirts morph into tote bags and scarves.

Creating therapeutic hot/cold bags can be fairly simple, even without a sewing machine. Cut a 16-by-eight-inch piece of flannel, cotton, fleece or terrycloth and fold it in half with the finished side inside, lining up the edges. Using sturdy thread, sew a quarter-inch seam along the open edges, leaving a half-inch opening. Carefully turn the fabric right-side-out through the opening and fill the bag three-quarters full with long grain white rice. Tuck in the opening’s unfinished edges and sew closed.

To treat aches and pains, the giftee can microwave the bag for 30 seconds at a time until achieving the desired

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temperature or place it in the freezer to use as a cooling or freezer pack. For aromatherapy, mix the rice with a couple of drops of lavender essential oil before filling. At room temperature, the scented version doubles as a soothing eye pillow.

Seeds to Throw and Grow Guerilla Gardening’s (GuerillaGardening. org) recipe for seed bombs makes fun gifts for gardeners and nature lovers. Choose flower and herb seeds that grow well in each recipient’s region.

Combine five parts clay soil or potter’s powder (from art supply stores), one part compost and one part seeds, with water to bind. Form the mixture into balls approximately one inch in diameter and let dry for one to two days in an empty egg carton. Wrap seed bombs in recycled paper or cloth tied with a ribbon and instructions. Toss them in the yard or garden and watch them grow.

Creative and Kid-Friendly Enlist Santa’s elves to assemble a fortbuilding kit for children, inspired by Saltwater-Kids.com. Stock a pillowcase with two sheets, clothespins, plastic clamps, rope, suction cups and a flashlight. Tie up the pillowcase with rope and a cute label, and watch old linens come to life with a little imagination.

Give broken and unwanted crayons a second life with fun-shaped recycled crayons. Fill greased muffin tins or cookie cutters on a foil-lined cookie sheet with broken crayon pieces (paper removed).

Bake at 150 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crayons melt. Allow them to cool completely before removing from the molds.

“I like to encourage families to focus on creating memories and rituals as a way to avoid excessive holiday consumption,” says Getty, who is renowned for her homecooked gifts packaged in reusable tins with recycled bows. She notes, “These become a tradition that people know and love.”

Such heartfelt gifts open the door to special moments and memories celebrating the true spirit of the season.

Holiday waste report source: epa.gov

Making Homemade Aromatherapy Bath Bombs

by Deborah Bruijn

H

andmade holiday presents add charm and meaning during the giftgiving season. Natural bath and beauty products are popular because they are inexpensive to make, contain zero calories and are Earth-friendly. Aromatherapy bath bombs are simple to use— just plop one in a warm bath and watch it fizz. The reaction comes from the carbon dioxide released when baking soda and citric acid react in the presence of water. Dissolved with the bath bomb are essential oils and any other therapeutic ingredients added to them. Ingredients can be found at many health food stores and drug stores. It’s also a fun project for children, under supervision, to make.

1 cup citric acid ½ cup baking soda Small spray bottle filled with witch hazel 15-20 drops skin safe essential oil or blend (do not use skin-sensitizing oils such as cinnamon).

Molds (cupcake wrappers in a muffin tin, snap-together Christmas ornaments, ice cube tray, meatballer, etc.) ½ cup or less sea or ground Epsom salts (optional) Dried botanicals (optional) 1 tsp olive oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, etc. (optional) Colorant (optional, see below) Mix citric acid and baking soda in a bowl, using fingers to remove lumps.

Add colorant and mix well. Note: A pinch of French rose clay will color the bath bomb only and not the water. Commercial food coloring is not all-natural, but if used, get a gel-based dye, because a water-based dye will instantly fizz when added to the natural mixture. A little bead of color in the bath

bomb will color the water in the tub, so use sparingly to avoid a ring.

Add essential oils and any optional ingredients and mix again, removing any lumps.

Spray the mixture lightly with witch hazel and mix well again. Hold a fistful in one hand. If it stays together, put it into a mold. If it doesn’t, spray the mixture again and mix well. Repeat as needed until it just comes together.

Press into molds. A meatballer takes a bit of practice, so start out with cupcake liners or ice cube trays. The more compression, the longer lasting the bath bomb will be. Leave in the molds to dry and pop onto a lined tray once solid.

Cover with a towel and let dry and harden overnight.

When hard, wrap in festive tissue or pretty foil. This keeps the bombs dry.

Making bath bombs can take some practice, so if they don’t harden well or fall apart, just crumble them into a jar for fizzy bath powder.

To use, drop into a warm bath to dissolve, releasing the essential oils and any additives.

Relax and enjoy.

Deborah Bruijn is a chemist, soapmaker and owner of the Fairhope Soap Company.

Contact her at Fairhope SoapCompany @gmail.com, Fairhope SoapCompany.com or awakenings December 2012 on Facebook.

21

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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healthykids

Mindful Holiday Traditions Simple Ways to Add Meaning and Family-Centered Fun

by Barbara Amrhein

T

oo many winter holidays whiz by in a blur of presents, parties and rich foods, muting the season’s true messages of love, hope and peace. By slowing down and refocusing on what makes this time of year so special, we can help our children—and ourselves—create fresh, meaningful traditions and experience genuine joy.

“If the spirit of the season at your home is more ‘Gimme, take me, buy me,’ instead of ‘Deck the halls,’ don’t despair,” advises internationally renowned educator and child expert Michele Borba, Ph.D., author of The Big Book of Parenting Solutions:101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenges and Wildest Worries. “There are more subtle ways to encourage your kids to appreciate the greatest gifts of the holiday season. The simplest way is to focus on gifts of the heart and letting your kids be participants, not just recipients.”

Try these tips for helping youngsters co-create traditions that celebrate family, friends, sharing with others and the holidays’ festive delights.

Emphasize experiences, not things.

Presents can never take the place of presence. Years from now, children will rarely recall what they unwrapped, but will remember special times spent together as a family. Take a nature walk to collect pinecones and other seasonal items for

holiday décor. Designate a Family Night and let the kids choose the activity, like seeing a movie or a holiday performance such as The Nutcracker, playing a favorite board game or building a gingerbread house. At dinner, ask youngsters to relate their favorite holiday memories, and then build upon their responses to plan this year’s celebrations.

Treat cards as treasured gifts. Gather the family ‘round when opening cards from others, catching up on their news and recalling funny or enjoyable shared moments. Skype calls and videos offer pleasurable immediacy while mailed cards become an appreciated, permanent memento.

Encourage children to create handmade or personalized cards for grandparents and other relatives, enclosing photos or drawings and a short note describing the reasons that person means so much to them. Hand deliver other cards to neighbors, accompanied by a plate of homemade, healthy treats. Children can also send cards to military personnel overseas via a Red Cross program at Tinyurl.com/ HolidayHeroMail.

Practice creative giving. Adopt a less fortunate family or child for the holidays (local churches or social service agencies can provide information) and ask youngsters to be “Santa’s little helpers” by picking out and thoughtfully wrapping books, toys and other gifts. Help children research good causes and earmark a small amount of money for them to gift to the cause of their choice, such as an animal shelter or other local nonprofit. Honor the gift of time, as well: Youngsters that spend a few hours helping out at a food pantry, caroling at a nursing home or wrapping

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December 2012

23

COMING IN JANUARY

Start the Year Well Discover new paths to Health & Wellness— from nutrition and exercise to your daily lifestyle.

gifts for Toys for Tots will experience and remember the true joy of giving.

Nurture a sense of the spiritual.

Worship services aren’t the only venue for sharing family values and beliefs with children. On the night of the Winter Solstice, December 21—the shortest day and longest night of the year—enjoy dinner by candlelight. Afterwards, stargaze in the backyard and make some holiday wishes.

On another evening, turn off all the lights except the Christmas tree, menorah or other special candles and talk quietly about your blessings. Listening to a CD of carols from around the world reinforces a spirit of unity and invites lively discussions about how other cultures observe their holidays.

Celebrate the season’s sights, sounds and fun. Ask children to help choose a tree and make or buy an ornament with special meaning for them. Then join in an informal decorating party with holiday tunes (kids

living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

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Relax, Rejuvenate, Renew

24

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Barbara Amrhein is a freelance writer and editor for Natural Awakenings.

An individual has not started

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

You deserve a break today...

get to choose some favorites), cocoa and cookies. Set aside an evening to walk or drive around the neighborhood to admire holiday lights and displays. Those in northern climes can build a family snowman, forge a “snow angel” chain in the yard or go sledding at an area park. As a fun twist on traditional caroling, grab some kazoos and go humming with the kids and their friends. To capture these great holiday moments, ask each child to take turns as the official family photographer.

Borba believes these types of shared experiences help children understand the true meaning of the season and bring back the heartfelt joy it represents. “In the end,” she advises, “remember that the holidays are really meant to be about love, togetherness and wonderful memories.”

Hoping Praise Duality Judging Worship Victimization Fearful Thoughts Unconsciousness Sundays: 9:30am Meditation and 10:00am Service 1230 Montlimar Drive (off Airport) Mobile, Al 36609 251-343-0777 Email: cslmobile09@gmail.com www.centerforspiritualliving-mobile.org facebook.com/centerforspirituallivingmobile

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Knowing Gratitude Oneness Acceptance Celebration Personal Responsibility Affirmative Prayer Awakening

Center for Spiritual Living-Mobile It’s like night and day.

natural awakenings

December 2012

25

naturalpet We're more than

Doggy Lost… and Found Again

a magazine.

Download our

FREE app!

Microchips Provide Peace of Mind

by Avery Mack

Search iTunes app store for “Natural Awakenings”

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t’s easy for a dog or cat to slip out an unlatched door, open gate or even a window. Three million lost pets are picked up by animal control agencies each year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The National Council on Pet Population Study & Policy estimates fewer than 2 percent of wayward cats and only 15 to 20 percent of wandering dogs find their way home again. Most of those that make it back have been identified and reunited through tags, tattoos or microchips.

About the size of a grain of rice (12 millimeters), a microchip is injected under the skin into the shoulder area of a dog or cat as a form of permanent identification. The chip itself has no internal energy source, so it will never wear out or run down.

Microchips work on a radio frequency identification system (RFIS) that operates on two main frequencies—125 kilohertz (in this country) or 134.2 kilo-

hertz (internationally). A handheld scanner powers a low radio frequency readout of the chip’s unique identification number and transmits it to the scanner’s display window, much like a retail bar code.

Shelters, veterinarians and animal control staff routinely use scanners to check for identification chips in unclaimed pets. If detected, the displayed code can then be traced to the pet’s family.

Microchip Myth Busters False: Microchipping is common.

True: The Humane Society of America estimates that fewer than 5 percent of pets have a microchip.

False: The chip will move after it’s been injected.

True: Technology has improved. For example, one microchip manufacturer has developed a patented anti-migration feature that ensures their microchips stay put.

“The chip very rarely migrates under the skin,” says Dr. Amber Andersen, a Los Angeles veterinarian. “Every pet should have a microchip.”

False: Microchips pose a health risk.

Every two seconds, a pet is lost somewhere in the United States.

Shelters report the biggest barrier to a pet and family reunion is a lack of current information. Identification can help bring him home again.

Like Natural Awakenings on Facebook and follow @NaturallyAwake on Twitter.

26

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Use both a tag and microchip. Keep contact information up to date.

When traveling, program a GPS tag with a cell phone number— it’s faster than calling home for messages.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

True: “There have been no reported cases of tumors at injection sites.” There’s no reaction at all in the tissue around the chip,” reports Dr. Jeff Bryan, a veterinary oncologist at the University of Missouri’s Medical Veterinary Teaching Hospital, in Columbia.

False: The shelter won’t have a scanner.

True: More than 50,000 veterinarians and shelters use scanners.

Microchip providers also frequently donate scanners to shelters and rescue groups.

False: Implanting a microchip is painful.

True: Pets do not have to be sedated to be chipped. Although a larger needle is used than for shots, it won’t be any more painful for the pet than a vaccination.

False: It’s expensive.

True: Veterinarians set their own prices, usually between $25 and $40. Local shelters and humane societies often sponsor chip-a-thons, where microchips are provided at an even lower cost. Call local shelters, humane societies or rescue groups for details about their next microchipping event.

False: Microchipping really isn’t necessary.

True: Identification is key in returning a lost pet. The ASPCA strongly recommends the use of a collar tag in combination with a microchip. Collars can break—a microchip assures backup identification that can’t be removed or altered.

GPS Tracking For a dog that likes to jump fences or take himself out on walkabouts, consider using a GPS collar. Tagg’s battery-powered GPS system allows the owner to track a pet from the Internet or a mobile phone app. Simply set up a perimeter of allowed space between 75 and 1,000 yards, and if the tagged pet leaves that area, notification arrives by text and email. The customized GPS function traces the pet’s location on a digital map or via text updates.

Avery Mack regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings magazines. Connect at AveryMack@mindspring.com.

natural awakenings

December 2012

27

fitbody

controlled breathing technique is largely responsible for the yoga buzz that helps keep students coming back for more.

BREATHE EASIER

Strength Training

Try These Tips for Better Workouts

I

t’s easy to take breathing for granted. But tune in to your breath—when, say, halfway through a sun salutation or headed for a finish line—and you’ll find that it not only feeds muscles fresh oxygen, but also indicates whether it’s time to increase the intensity of the activity. To get the most out of every breath, follow these exercise tips from acknowledged experts.

Running With closed lips, breathe in sharply and deeply through the nose. Then purse the lips as if trying to blow out a candle and exhale through the mouth. While running, breathe in for one step and out for two.

“The rapid inhale and slower exhale in this technique fills lungs from the bottom,” explains Danny Dreyer, author of ChiRunning: A Revolutionary Approach to Effortless, Injury-Free Running. “Breathing exercises

help take in more air when inhaling and empty lungs completely when exhaling.

Muscles receive more glycogen, which lowers the chances of their cramping up.”

Yoga Use the Hindu breathing method called ujjayi, in which the lungs are fully expanded.

First, inhale once with the mouth open, and then exhale the same way, making a “Ha,” sound. Then close your mouth and continue making the same sound while inhaling and exhaling through the nose (it will resemble the rushing sound that Darth Vader makes in Star Wars movies).

“Your breathing is the barometer of all your poses,” says Elena Brower, founder and co-owner of Virayoga, in New York City. If you’re gasping for air, back out of the pose.

“Always give preference to deeper breathing over deeper postures,” advises Brower. This

Experience the gifts of the Earth.

Exhale through the mouth when lifting weights and inhale through the nose when lowering them. As a rule of thumb, take two seconds to raise weights and three to four seconds to lower them.

“Focusing on your breath keeps your brain in the game, so you’re more likely to pay attention to overall form,” says Tom Holland, an exercise physiologist, personal trainer and fitness consultant in Darien, Connecticut.

Cycling “The key to breathing on a bike is to go in through the nose and out through the mouth, and to be as relaxed as possible,” Holland counsels. As intensity increases on climbs or long rides, breathe more forcefully—deeper, quicker inhalations through the nose and rapid exhalations through the mouth.

“The more relaxed your breathing is, the more relaxed your entire body will be,” says Holland. “Relaxed breathing conserves energy, prevents fatigue and improves endurance.” Using forceful breaths when you’re tired also sends more energizing oxygen to muscles to help counter fatigue.

Source: Women’s Health online © 2012 Rodale Inc. All rights reserved; used with permission.

CommUnity of the Gulf Coast

Wellness Expo

An event promoting the wellness of the spirit, mind, and body of all individuals.

Healing Acres A Place of Wellness Massage • Reflexology Body Treatments Reiki • Ear Candling Colon Hydrotherapy Detox Spa System DŌTerra Oils Distributor Wellness Classes & More Gift Certificates Available

22355 Price Grubbs Rd in Robertsdale 251-423-1863 28

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Saturday, January 19, 2013 at the Loxley Civic Center in Loxley Wellness Expo 9:00AM to 4:30 PM; 5K Run begins at 8:00AM FREE admission to the public!

If you would like to be a vendor, a sponsor, or sign up for the 5K run, please visit us online for more information.

www.communityofthegulfcoast.org facebook.com/communityofthegulfcoast 251-289-0255

The mission of CommUnity of the Gulf Coast is bringing together people of like minds for the purpose of building beloved communities.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

calendarofevents

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17

All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Go to TinyURL.com/NACalendar to submit entries.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 Quantum-Touch Level One Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. Dec 1-2. Taught by certified instructor, Julie E. Brent. CNEs 12.5 (add $50) and MT CEs 13 available. Full description at Quantum-Touch.com of this powerful easy to learn energy healing modality. You need not have any previous experience to help yourself or your family. $350 prepaid/$400 at the door.

Reiki Center of Fairhope, 20730 Hwy 181, Fairhope.

Register with Julie: 251-281-8811 or ReikiCenterOf Fairhope@gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 Family Yoga and Art Lounge – 6-8pm. Inspire creativity by exploring movement and breath, in a fun and safe atmosphere, with a practice that is beneficial for children as well as adults. Art activities to follow. All ages welcome. $3 for art + donation for yoga. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

“The Way” Movie Presentation – 7pm. "The Way" is an inspirational story. A father goes to France to deal with the death of his son. He decides to embark on the historical pilgrimage "The Way of St. James" honoring his son's desire to finish the journey. $10 donation. 1230 Montlimar Dr, Mobile. 251-343-0777.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 Usui Reiki Level I & II – Dec 8-9. 9:30am-5:30pm.

Easily learn to use Reiki Healing energy for yourself or others with Julie E. Brent. $299 prepaid/$330 door.

View webpage for details about Reiki. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 20730 Hwy 181, Fairhope. 251-281-8811.

ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com. ReikiCenter OfFairhope.com.

cal Treatments and 30 min facial consultations for both sexes. Hideaway in Fairhope, 10860 County Rd 24, Fairhope. Call to register: 251-929-2114 or 251-591-6168. HideawayInFairhope.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 Four Spiritual Laws of Prosperity Workshop – 11am-1pm. Edwene Gaines has made 100% commitment to the transformation of the abundance consciousness of planet earth. If you are ready to learn and practice the principles of true prosperity, this workshop will answer your questions and inspire you to act. Love offering donation. 1230 Montlimar Dr, Mobile. 251-343-0777.

Bio Tone Body Treatment Workshop – 11am-6pm.

Body treatment workshops for sensitive, dry skin.

Teaching the best method for a healthy body texture during the winter months. Hideaway in Fairhope, 10860 County Rd 24, Fairhope. Call to register: 251929-2114 or 251-591-6168. HideawayInFairhope.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Essential Oil Workshop – 9-11am. We will begin our Journey Through the Human Body series, starting with a basic study of bones and muscles and will begin the journey in January. I trust everyone will have a safe and Merry Christmas. Free. Westminster Village, 500 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort in the Pete Allen Room. Judith Wilson: 251-656-6696.

Bio Tone Body Treatment Workshop – 11am-6pm.

See Dec 17 listing. Hideaway in Fairhope, 10860 County Rd 24, Fairhope. Call to register: 251-9292114 or 251-591-6168. HideawayInFairhope.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19

Skin Care Event: Working With Acne – 12-6pm.

See Dec 14 listing. Hideaway in Fairhope, 10860 County Rd 24, Fairhope. Call to register: 251-9292114 or 251-591-6168. HideawayInFairhope.com.

Holiday Potluck/Discussion Group – 6-8:30pm.

A holiday potluck gathering to share in the love, energy and gratitude of the season. Bring a dish to share, a drink and a willingness to

A CENTER FOR HEALING ... A CENTER FOR LEARNING Permaculture Design Passive and Active Solar Rainwater Collection Humanure Composting Greywater Recycling Shiitake Cultivation Biodynamics

Holistic Consultation Energy Work Color Therapy Essential Oils Flower Essences Qi Gong Chartres Labyrinth

Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center Citronelle, AL 251-866-7204

Essential Oil Workshop – 10am-12pm. Join us as we focus on relaxing. Learn which oils to use to help with relaxation and which ones provide a calming and peaceful setting. Music will be provided by Debbie Altom as she plays her crystal medicine bowls. Love offering. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile. Judith Wilson: 251-656-6696.

MidEarthHealing@yahoo.com * www.middleearthhealing.com

Experiential Art: Yoga in the Hokushima – 11:15am-12:45pm. Step inside a 360 degree projection of light and sound to become part of Xavier de Richemont's "Hokushima" with mind, body and breath. Focus on cultivating the emotions of the piece with movement and breath while simultaneously experiencing the work. Pay What You Can. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202-YOGA, KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Therapeutic and rehabilitative massage, integrated with energy therapies, provides optimal conditions to meet your wellness goals.

An Intimate Evening with Psychic Medium Ericka Boussarhane – 6-9pm. Ericka Boussarhane is a professional psychic medium who is sought after around the world. Come out and enjoy an intimate opportunity to connect with your loved ones. $25.

Days Inn North Conference Room, 6501 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola. 850-941-4321. PsychicFift@aol. com. ColdCasePsychic.com.

Live your very best life!

Experience wellness and healing today.

Massage ◊ Reiki ◊ Reflexology Craniosacral Therapy ◊ Aromatherapy Muscle Energy Techniques ◊ Pet Massage

Weekend and Evening Appointments Available

Prana Health and Wellness

Becky Ardrey, LMT

HOLIDAY SPECIAL:

Buy a friend a gift certificate

for a 1 hr massage ($70),

get a FREE 30 minute massage for yourself!

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 Skin Care Event: Working With Acne – 12-6pm.

Acne Skin Event, ''Breath Life Into Your Skin.''

Learn how to take care of your skin. Oxygen Botani-

811 Fairhope Avenue 251-455-9359

www.PranaHealthAndWellness.com

natural awakenings

December 2012

29

explore ideas in the discussion after we eat.

Free. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 20730 Hwy 181, Fairhope. 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOf Fairhope@gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22

Y

M

D

IN

O

Trinity Yoga

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13

Enjoy Yoga in a Rural Setting!

Yoga for Newbies – 2-4:30pm. Explore what yoga is with three hours of basic poses and breathing and a Q&A format discussion about yoga. Movement will be interspersed with meditation and discussion, making the workshop appropriate for all levels of fitness. $25 suggested donation. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Rise & Shine Yoga Chair Yoga Energize & Relax Yoga 21441 Highway 98 East in Foley 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541 natstrinityyoga@gmail.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19

Sweat, breathe, relax,

Synergy yoga & Pilates

& sit with the uncertainty of things.

Private Lessons

Dana B. Garrett MS, ACSM, RYT PhysicalMind Institute Stott IM and IR Certified

www.synergyoga.net 3152 Old Shell Road, Suite 2 Mobile, Alabama 36607

251.473.1104

30

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Resolve to Evolve – 2-4:30pm. Honor the closing of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 in this yoga workshop led by Julie Wilkins. Includes 90 min yoga practice, guided meditation, journaling and vision board work.

Bring a journal and pen, glue and old magazines.

Suggested Donation $25. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Health Hut Open House – Jan 4-5. 9am-5pm. The Health Hut in Daphne is having an Open House on Jan 4-5, to celebrate the new location. There will be product samples, door prizes, refreshments, chair massages and much more. Please mark your calendar and join us! Free. 6845 Hwy 90 (across from Home Depot), Daphne. 251-621-1865.

SPIRIT

Group Classes

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4

B

D

Masters of Yoga & Pilates

Holiday Yoga Flow – 11:15am. Bring family and friends for this all levels practice. Participants will move at their own pace during a breath-guided sequence of strength and stretching poses. Reconnect to the spirit of the season with mindful movement set to live music. Pay What You Can. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202-YOGA, KulaYogaCommunity.org.

The Yoga Center Gulf Shores

$10 per class AM and PM Classes, Tai Chi, Thai Massage & Flash Mob Meditations.

103 West Canal Drive, Gulf Shores Kathy Keane: 251.975.8687 kakeane47@gmail.com Carolyn Hall: 251.609.6999 davidsgallery1@yahoo.com

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

markyourcalendar Community of the Gulf Coast Wellness Expo The event will include space for vendors with products which support the health of our spirit, mind and body.

There will also be a 5K run. Free admission. $100 for booth space.

January 19 • 9am-4:30pm.

Loxley Civic Center, Loxley.

251-289-0255 CommunityOfTheGulfCoast.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 An Intimate Evening with Psychic Medium Ericka Boussarhane – 6-9pm. See Dec 8 listing. $25.

Days Inn North Conference Room, 6501 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola. 850-941-4321. PsychicFift@aol. com. ColdCasePsychic.com.

ongoingevents sunday Discounts on Supplements – Every Sunday get 15% off supplements at Fairhope Health Foods, 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope. 251-928-0644.

Center for Spiritual Living Service – 10am. Make every step, every choice, every word, a conscious one. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar, Mobile. Rev. Sherrie Quander: 251-343-0777.

CenterForSpiritualLiving-Mobile.org.

Sunday Service – 10:30am. Explore a spiritual pathway with Mobile Unitarian Universalists, 6345 Old Shell Rd, Mobile. UUFM.org.

Sunday Service – 10:30am. Questioning, understanding and growing together spiritually as we enjoy the adventure of life. Center for Joyful Living, 60 N Ann St, Mobile. 251-391-6960.

Sunday Worth-ship Celebration – 10:30am. Find, strengthen and celebrate a connection with Divine Spirit. Donation. One mile north of US Hwy 104.

Unity on the Eastern Shore, 22979 US Hwy 98, Montrose. 251-990-8934. UnityEasternShore.org.

Sunday Worship – 11am. Celebrate Spirit in this special and sacred space. Between Hillcrest and Knollwood. Unity Mobile, 5859 Cottage Hill, Mobile. 251-661-1788.

Open Table: A Community of Faith Worship Service (United Church of Christ) – 5pm. Weekly progressive Christian worship. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1050 Azalea Rd, Mobile. 251-545-1011.

Ellen.OpenTable@gmail.com. OpenTableUCC.org.

monday Yoga Abs with Faye – 8:30am. What a great way to jump start your day! Let breath and body move in seamless sync as Faye Mahan weaves a blend of classical yoga flow and poses, with added emphasis on those hard to work abdominal areas.

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104.

Synergyoga.net.

Yoga in the Yurt – 9-10am. No experience necessary. Increase flexibility, strength and balance through the gentle stretching and poses of yoga.

Instructor Rosie Denton has practiced and taught yoga for many years. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and a pillow. Pay what you can (suggested $7-$12). Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center, Citronelle. 251-866-7204. MidEarthHealing@ yahoo.com. MiddleEarthHealing.com.

Eyes on Living, Baldwin County Low Vision Support Group – 10-11:30am. Third Mon. Anyone who has or knows someone with vision loss or impairment is welcome in the Single Tax room at Fairhope Library. Free. Shelia Tetley: 251-929-2169.

Yoga with Dana – 12pm. Take a break in the middle of your day. Join Dana to transform your body, relieve stress, sooth the spirit and relax the mind.

Discover bliss! 251-473-1104. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Outstretched Christ-Centered Yoga Class – 5:45pm. Also at 8:15am on Wed. Each week Pneuma

offering encouraged and appreciated. Rosie Bluum, 6 A Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

offers two donation-only yoga classes open to the public. Classes are appropriate for all levels and include a Christ-centered devotion. Donation only.

1901 Main St, Daphne. See website for more info Pneuma-Yoga-Movement.com.

La Leche League Enrichment Meeting – 6:30pm.

Last Mon. La Leche League provides encouragement, information and support for nursing and expectant mothers. Free. Call for location. 251-689-2085.

Pranic Healing and Meditation – 6:30pm. Come experience healing for your mind, body and soul. We address specific physical and emotional ailments, followed by the Meditation on Twin Hearts. Let us take the stress off and balance your aura. Classes also available. CEU's -LMTs and Nurses. $10 donation.

Mobile. Deana: 251-454-0959.

tuesday Rise and Shine Yoga – 6:30-7:45am. Tues and Thurs. Start the day with an invigorating Hatha Yoga practice. Class includes a mixture of flow yoga, Pranayama, restorative and meditation. Fellowship, coffee and some of mom's homemade bread follows. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Highway 98 East, Foley. 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541.

Tuesday Morning Yoga with Tracey, RYT 200 – 9:30am. Join Tracey for an all-levels 75 min flow yoga class incorporating all the yogic tools at our disposal to quiet and expand our minds, open our hearts, release anxiety and depression, and find the peace, freedom, and wholeness we all crave. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio, Mobile. Tracey@ ShantiWarrior.com.

La Leche League Series Meeting – 10:30am. Second Tues. La Leche League provides encouragement, information and support for nursing and expectant mothers. Free. Call for location. 251-689-2085.

Gentle Yoga with Martha – 12pm. Take a break in the middle of your day. Join Martha Collier in the land of "ahhhhs" for a relaxing class to sooth the spirit, calm the mind and replenish the soul. Also at noon on Thursday! 251-473-1104. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

LA Hikers Meeting – 6-7pm. First Tues. Free and open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort. LAHikerMeetings.Blogspot.com.

Energize and Relax Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Tues and Thurs. This class emphasizes flow yoga with Pranayama and some Kundalini. Meditation follows the energizing portion to calm in preparation for the day. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family.

Trinity Yoga Studio, Hwy 98 East, Foley. 251-9871147 or 251-609-5541.

Positive Parenting Class – 6-8pm. Kids don’t come with a set of instructions. Learn tools and skills to create a happy, healthy family. Free. The Family Center, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Ste 100, Mobile. 251479-5700. Kids101@comcast.net.

Sierra Club Meeting – 6-8pm. First Tues. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort.

Creative Spark Writing Group – 7-8pm. Love

Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. First Tues. For pro-paddlers and those brand new to the sport. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort. BayKayaker.

Blogspot.com.

Spiritual Book Study Group, Mobile – 7-9pm.

First and third Tues. Read and discuss spiritual books chosen by the members. Contact Joy: 251-382-4215.

CWG_Mobile_Group@yahoo.com.

Spiritual Cinema Group, Mobile – 7-9pm. Second and fourth Tues. View and discuss spiritual movies received from “Spiritual Cinema Circle.” Contact Melissa: 251-452-0393. CWG_Mobile_Group@ yahoo.com.

wednesday Yoga with Tracey – 8:30am. Revel in Tracey's refreshing energy as she challenges you with a strong emphasis on alignment and focus while still calming the mind. Sink into the joy and experience the bliss! 251-473-1104. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Mantra, Mudra and Movement – 9am. This class incorporates sound, breath, hand gestures, yoga postures, joint opening movement and relaxation to facilitate a state of meditation incorporating mind, body and breath. Appropriate for all abilities. Pay What You Can. Rosie Bluum, 6A S Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity. org or RosieBluum.com. $5 Yoga Flow & Chair – 9:15 am, Flow. 10:30am, Chair Yoga (seated or holding onto chair to practice balance). Bring your own mat. Beginners welcome. $5. Fairhope. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.

Positive Parenting Class – 9:30-11:30am. Kids don’t come with a set of instructions. Get the tools and skills to create a happy, healthy family. Free. The Family Center, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Ste 100, Mobile.

251-479-5700. Kids101@comcast.net.

Lunchtime Yoga with Tracey, RYT 200 – 121:15pm. Feed your soul! Take time to breathe and reconnect with inner peace on your lunch break while we flow through an all-levels yoga practice that will increase flexibility and balance, build strength and confidence while stilling the mind. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio, Mobile. Tracey@ ShantiWarrior.com.

Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis – 12-1pm. This chair yoga class is FREE to participants and funded by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Build strength and flexibility while improving balance and circulation. Wheelchairs welcome. Enjoy exercise at every level. Improve balance, strength and flexibility. Free.

Fairhope. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.

Unusual Film Series – 2pm. Third Wed. Adults only. Thought provoking cutting-edge films shown on big screen in meeting room. Free. Popcorn and drinks included. Foley Public Library. 251-9437665. FoleyLibrary.org.

Eastern Shore MS Support Group – 5:30pm.

Second Wed. Eastern Shore MS Support Group meets each month at Ruby Tuesday in Fairhope.

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Family, friends and caregivers are always welcome.

Weezer: 251-928-7606.

Guided Meditation – 5:30pm. Nonprofit, nonreligious meditation. Relax the body, rest the mind and find inner peace. Guided meditation with instructors from around the world via Skype. $10 suggested donation includes vegetarian dinner. Meditation Center of Alabama, 3821 Airport Blvd, Suite C, Mobile. 251-623-4485.

MeditationCenterOfAlabama.Weebly.com.

Core Barre with Chris – 5:45pm. Give yourself the best seat in the house - work your body to a fusion of ballet, Pilates, yoga and classic fitness. Move to fun music and really change your shape! 251-473-1104.

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Gentle Yoga wth Tracey, RYT 200 – 6-7:15pm. 75 min gentle practice appropriate for all levels, ages, shapes and sizes. We will breathe and move and let go of all the distractions and obstacles that obscure the peace, happiness, love and freedom we all have within. Om Shanti. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio, Mobile. Tracey@ShantiWarrior.com.

International Association of Near Death Studies (IANDS) – 6-7:30pm. Second Wed. Ongoing discussion and support group affiliated with IANDS. Discussion expands to include intuition, after death communication, consciousness studies and related areas of interest to attendees. Free. West Regional Branch, Mobile Public Library. 251-340-8555.

Guided Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 7-8pm.

Practice guided meditation at Rosie Bluum and experience an inner journey which heals the heart, mind, body and soul. Nurture the spirit. Full meditation schedule online. $5 suggested donation. Rosie Bluum, 6 A S Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626.

RosieBluum.com.

thursday Rise and Shine Yoga – 6:30-7:45am. Tues and Thurs. Start the day with an invigorating Hatha Yoga practice. Class includes a mixture of flow yoga, Pranayama, restorative and meditation. Fellowship, coffee and some of mom's homemade bread follows. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Highway 98 East, Foley. 251-9871147 or 251-609-5541.

Guided Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 9am and 7pm. Practice guided meditation at Rosie Bluum and experience an inner journey which heals the heart, mind, body and soul. Nurture the spirit. $5 suggested donation. Full meditation schedule online. Rosie Bluum, 6 A S Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626.

RosieBluum.com.

Group Reformer Class – 5:15pm. Catch the wave of classical fitness and join Adrienne for a Pilates group reformer class. Stand taller, get toned, and be both leaner and stronger. Please log onto the website to make reservations. 251-473-1104. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Energize and Relax Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Tues and Thurs. This class emphasizes flow yoga with Pranayama and some Kundalini. Meditation follows the energizing portion to calm in preparation for the day. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family.

Trinity Yoga Studio, Hwy 98 East, Foley. 251-9871147 or 251-609-5541.

Guided Meditation – 6:30pm. See Wednesday

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

listing. Meditation Center of Alabama, 3821 Airport Blvd, Suite C, Mobile. 251-623-4485. Meditation CenterOfAlabama.Weebly.com.

saturday

friday

Saturday Morning Yoga with Augusta – 7:308:45am. Designed for all levels. The goal is to present movement and mindfulness simultaneously. The movements will challenge you to stay mindful and your mindfulness will allow you to honor your limits without judging yourself. $15 drop-in. $10 students and instructors. Creative Outlet, 66 1/2 S Section St, Fairhope. 251-928-5363. HeartStringsYoga.com.

Fab Fifteen Friday – Get an extra 15% off purchases. Back to Health Nutrition and Natural Foods, 1600 N McKenzie, Foley. 251-970-2225.

BackToHealthNutrition.com.

Yoga with Marsha – 8:30am. Join Marsha DeAngelis for a glorious yoga experience. Relieve stress, relax the mind and rejuvenate, energize and recharge the body. It’s Friday – enjoy it! 251-473-1104.

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Silent Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 9am. Follow the lead of a crystal quartz singing bowl into a restful period of silence. This is a more challenging style of meditation yet wonderfully rewarding when you succumb to your natural state of being. $5 suggested donation. Rosie Bluum, 6 A S Bancroft St, Fairhope.

251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

Yoga in the Yurt – 9-10am. No experience necessary. Increase your flexibility, strength and balance through the gentle stretching and poses of yoga.

Instructor Rosie Denton has practiced and taught yoga for many years. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and a pillow. Pay what you can (suggested $7-$12). Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center, Citronelle. 251-866-7204. MidEarthHealing@ yahoo.com. MiddleEarthHealing.com.

Camp Sculpt – 8:30-9:30am. Join Sculpt Yoga and Fitness for Boot Camp and Cardio Combat style workouts in downtown Mobile. 60 minutes of military and sports drills, cardiovascular challenges and yoga principles for flexibility and core strength. Make yours a body of art. $15 Drop-in (4 and 8 week discount packages available). Sculpt Yoga and Fitness, 101 North Conception St, Downtown Mobile. 251-525-7079. SculptMobile@ yahoo.com. SculptYogaAndFitness.com.

Silent Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 9am. Follow the lead of a rainstick into a restful period of silence. This is a more challenging style of meditation yet wonderfully rewarding when you succumb to your natural state of being. $5 suggested donation. Rosie Bluum, 6 A S Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

Pet Reiki – 11am-1pm. Second Sat. Reiki is a great technique for pets that are anxious, have behavioral issues or that have suffered from trauma. House calls are available.

Please call for more information and to schedule an appointment. Costs vary. 811 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope.

251-455-9359. Becky@PranaHealthAndWellness.com.

PranaHealthAndWellness.com.

classifieds Listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com for details. Volunteer opportunities are listed for free as space is available.

OPPORTUNITIES BECOME A PUBLISHER! –Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin is for sale! Own one of the Gulf Coast's most exciting businesses. Training provided.

HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. 251-990-9552.

BRANCH MANAGERS IN MOBILE AND FAIRHOPE – Looking for a healthy job? Work with Off the Vine Produce! Mom-friendly. Work on Wednesdays only. 850-374-2181.

Baldwin counties available. Contact Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

THERAPIST AND MEDITATION TEACHERS NEEDED - Therapist should have spiritual and nurturing mind; massage or esthetician experience preferred. Teachers needed to lead guided or silent meditations. Info@RosieBluum.com.

251-517-5626.

VOLUNTEER OPPS

JOIN THE GREEN CLEAN TEAM! – Green Clean provides environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning services. If interested in becoming part of our team, please call 251-508-3796 for an interview.

AZALEA CITY CAT COALITION – Volunteers needed in any capacity: transporting cats, trapping and adoption events. Contact Susan Young: 251-648-7582. SusanYoung@ AzaleaCityCats.org.

SALES PROFESSIONAL FOR HEALTHY AND GREEN LIVING MAGAZINE – Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin has an opportunity for you to generate income through magazine ad sales and healthy living discount card sales. As an independent contractor you’ll have a protected territory and the ability to make your own schedule. Enjoy a generous pay structure and participate in ongoing industry training. We have territories in Mobile and

MERCY MEDICAL Hospice volunteers needed to provide services such as running errands, offering respite breaks for caregivers and clerical assistance.

251-621-4431, Volunteers@MercyMedical.com.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

DOG RIVER CLEARWATER REVIVAL STORM DRAIN MARKRE PROJECT– Volunteers needed to educate the public about the storm drain system. Supplies and instructions provided. Work at your convenience. Contact Janet Miller: J46Miller@yahoo.com. 251-654-1827.

naturaldirectory

PURE MAID CLEANING SERVICE

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Natural Directory, email Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com to request our media kit. Rates begin at $36 a month.

ART FAIRHOPE ARTIST GALLERY 18 South Section Street, Fairhope 251-990-8763 FairhopeArtistGallery.BlogSpot.com Come and be inspired by local affordable art in this uniquely creative atmosphere. Look for “ART” and a golden palette above the door. Open Mon-Sat 10-5.

Classes offered.

KATRINA'S ART CLASSES Serving Mobile and Baldwin Counties 251-554-5704, KatrinaBreeland@gmail.com Facebook.com/StudioGarageArtClasses Beginner's drawing classes for 12 yrs - adults; Art classes for 4 - 11 yrs; Weekly classes in 6-week sessions; Classes are held M - F, 9:30am 12:30pm. Call or email for more details.

BEAUTY B-BUTTERFLY SALON 103A North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-9934 BButterflySalon.com A certified organic salon offering organic products and services including hair color, perms and shampoo. Keeping you and the Earth beautiful. See ad, page 22.

HIDEAWAY IN FAIRHOPE 10860 County Road 24, Fairhope 251-929-2114, 251-591-6168 HideawayInFairhope.com Hideaway in Fairhope is a private salon and day retreat dedicated to providing a relaxing experience. We will pamper you with hair, body and facial treatments, using only the finest organic products. Gift certificates available. See ad, page 27.

CHURCHES CENTER FOR JOYFUL LIVING 60 North Ann Street Mobile, AL 36695 251-391-6960 Questioning, understanding and growing together spiritually as we enjoy life’s adventure. Center for Joyful Living in Mobile. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.

CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Sundays at 10am 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile 251-343-0777, CMSpiritualCenter.org Rev. S h e r r i e Quander invites you to visit a loving, inclusive spiritual community where we aim to make every step we take, every choice we make, every word we speak a conscious one. See ad, page 24.

OPEN TABLE: A COMMUNITY OF FAITH (UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST)

Dawn Goble, Owner 251-504-0581 PureMaidCleaningService@gmail.com Facebook.com/PureMaidCleaningService Full-service housekeeping in Baldwin County, using natural cleaning products and aromatherapy. Customized home spa packages transform homes into personal retreats with fragrant, healing scents to create environments that are as soothing as they are clean. See ad, page 20.

DENTISTRY DR. DAYTON HART, DM IAOMT Protocol 225 West Laurel Avenue, Foley 251-943-2471, DrDaytonHart.com Free book for new patients: M e rc u r y F re e D e n t i s t r y .

Offering ozone; laser (nosuture) gum surgery; testing for compatible materials and cavitycausing bacteria; examine for gum disease and bacteria; laser cavity diagnoses; saliva pH check; oral galvanic screening; no fluoride used.

ESSENTIAL OILS JUDITH Z. WILSON, MEM. #759523 Young Living Essential Oils HealthyLivingWithEssentialOils.com HealthyLivingWithEssentialOils@gmail.com

1050 Azalea Road at St Luke’s Episcopal Church, Mobile 251-545-1011, OpenTableUCC.org No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here! Pastor Ellen Sims and the congregation invite you to join them on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m. Childcare provided. See ad on page 22.

Workshops held the 2nd Saturday and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

See Calendar of Events for time and location.

Need more information, call 251-656-6696.

FOODS AND NUTRITION BURRIS FARM MARKET & BAKERY

CHIROPRACTIC BAYSIDE CHIROPRACTIC REHAB AND LASER THERAPY Dr. Christian Augustin D.C. 8335 Gayfer Road Extension, Ste F, Fairhope 251-990-8388, MyFairhopeChiropractor.com Offering laser therapy as the drug free, noninvasive and painless treatment option for injuries and chronic conditions. See ad, page 9.

CLEANING SERVICES

3100 Hickory Street Loxley, AL 36551 251-964-6464

GREEN CLEAN, LLC Nicoll Mastin, owner 251-508-3796 NicollMastin@gmail.com Providing environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning services for residential properties. We're hiring on the Eastern Shore! Call for interview. See ad, page 23.

Hwy 59 on the way to Gulf Shores.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh baked strawberry shortcake, ice cream and much more. Your first and last stop to the beach, or any other time.

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FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

PRANIC HEALING IN MOBILE Deana Lannie 251-454-0959

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644, Café: 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store and organic café, featuring organic food, free-range meat, vegan options and organic wine. Store open 7 days a week. Serving the public 35 years. See ad, page 22.

THE HEALTH HUT

MEDITATION CENTER OF ALABAMA Free healing nights and group meditations every Monday. Pranic Healing classes and the advanced technique of Superbrain Yoga.

REIKI CENTER OF FAIRHOPE 20730 Hwy 181, PO Box 117, Fairhope 251-281-8811 ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com

680 S. Schillinger, Mobile: 251-633-0485 (Across from Home Depot) 6845 Hwy 90, Daphne: 251-621-1865 (Across from Home Depot) For nearly 30 years The Health Hut has been the go-to place for high quality, whole-food vitamins, herbs and sport supplements at great prices coupled with a service-oriented, knowledgeable staff.

See ad, page 9.

Reiki Workshops and Sessions as well as weekly Reiki Exchange. Learn about the many healing benefits of Reiki. Please call to schedule your appointment. See ad, page 10.

INTUITIVE ARTS ERICKA BOUSSARHANE International Psychic Medium 850-941-4321 ColdCasePsychic.com

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II 3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0494, Café: 251-345-0495 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store and organic café, featuring organic food, free-range meat, vegan options and juice bar. Store open 7 days a week. Serving the public 35 years.

See ad, page 22.

HEALING ARTS MARQUERITE DILLON, RN, BSN, HCN Holistic Mind-Body Therapy 4313 Momote Drive, Mobile 251-463-1570, Dillon@mobilehypnosis.co MobileHypnosis.co Achieve goals, control cravings and conquer personal challenges with natural and holistic therapy.

Individual and group sessions available. Smoking cessation sessions at Synergy Yoga in Mobile.

MEDITATION

Amazingly accurate and detailed online psychic and mediumship readings as featured on national TV and radio stations.

MASSAGE BECKY ARDREY, LMT Prana Health and Wellness 811 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope 251-455-9359 Becky@PranaHealthAndWellness.com PranaHealthAndWellness.com Therapeutic and rehabilitative massage, integrated with energy therapies, provides optimal conditions to meet your wellness goals. Weekend and evening appointments are available. See ad, pg 29.

JEN ADAMS, LMT 22787 US 98, Building D Suite 5, Montrose, 251-616-4201 JenAdamsLMT.MassageTherapy.com JenAdams.Massage@gmail.com Unique massage technique that is gentle enough for the severest sufferers of pain and deep enough for the most rigorous of athletes. 14 years experience in the bodywork and natural wellness field.

3821 Airport Boulevard, Suite C, Mobile 251-408-7902, 251-623-4485 Happiness072@gmail.com MeditationCenterOfAlabama.Weebly.com Nonprofit, nonreligious. Relax your body, rest your mind, find inner peace. Guided meditation with instructors from around the world via Skype 5:30 p.m., Wednesdays and 6:30 p.m., Thursdays. Suggested donation: $10 (includes dinner). Check website for monthly retreat schedule.

PET CARE WALKS AND WAGS 631 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-643-1615 WalksAndWags.com Cindie@WalksAndWags.com Providing your dog with the exercise, socialization and affection that they deserve. Offering doggie daycare, and boarding. See ad, page 27.

PHOTOGRAPHERS ERIN CREEL PHOTOGRAPHY 251-928-4192 ErinCreelPhotography.com Wedding photography and portraits.

SUSTAINABLE LIVING MIDDLE EARTH HEALING AND LEARNING CENTER 20205 Middle Earth Road, Citronelle 251-866-7204 MiddleEarthHealing.com Middle Earth is an evolving education center, modeling permaculture, sustainable living and the interconnection of the health of the planet and the health of her inhabitants. See ad on page 29.

This logo indentifies businesses that provide discounts to Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cardholders. See ad on back cover for details.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Eat Fresh. Buy Local.

Treat your locavore palate to farm-fresh foods while contributing to a healthier planet and a more prosperous local economy. Support these Mobile/Baldwin businesses!

GROCERY STORES FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Cntr, Fairhope, 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

WINDMILL MARKET'S PRODUCE CLUB

SUNFLOWER CAFE II 3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0495 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope Info@WindmillMarket.org 251-990-8883

A weekly delivery of local and seasonal fruits, Comprehensive health food store featuring veggies, organic milk, cheese, grass-fed beef and local products: organic produce, organic milk, more delivered from Baldwin County farms to your table every week! Six box sizes to fit your family's meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad on needs. Home delivery and Mobile pickup option page 22. also available!

VIRGINIA'S HEALTH FOODS 3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0494 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

RESTAURANTS & BAKERIES LULU'S AT HOMEPORT

WESTSIDE GROCERY

Proudly serving fresh local produce, Gulf Wild Red Snapper and Alabama Wild Shrimp.

Local grocery sells the area's best produce, grassfed meat, Alabama's Organic milk, locally made cheeses, gulf seafood, local honey, sweets and baked goods, and more! Best prices in town on produce, too!

PRODUCE CLUBS OFF THE VINE ORGANIC PRODUCE

Under the bridge in Gulf Shores 251-967-LULU LuLuBuffett.com

MANNA BAKERY

Manna-Bakery.com Info@Manna-Bakery.com 251-447-8667 Mobile's first organic bakery offers 100% organic breads including wholegrain, sweet and glutenfree choices, as well as European style desserts.

Desserts are 100% all natural. We bake upon order, delivery within Mobile, Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, and Dauphin Island. Seasonal specialties!

Now serving Mobile and Eastern Shore SUNFLOWER CAFE I 320 Eastern Shore Shopping Cntr, 850-374-2181 Support@OffTheVine.org, OffTheVine.org Fairhope, 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

All organic - all the time! We bring the farmers market to you. Check our list every Friday and Organic cafe serving lunch and Sunday brunch. place your produce order over the weekend. Pick Local produce, herbs and meats used.

Menu online. See ad on page 2. up or delivery available.

Healthy& GREEN Living

DIRECTORY

SWEET OLIVE BAKERY & CAFE 85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope SweetOlive.co 251-990-8883 Open for breakfast and lunch every day until 5 PM serving European-style, artisan baked goods; freshly squeezed fruit and veggie juices; smoothies; daily lunch specials like fish tacos and poboys; delicious food to go; hot breakfast plates, and more!

Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, organic milk, meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad on page 22.

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope WindmillMarket.org 251-990-8883

Organic cafe and juice bar. Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu online. See ad on page 22.

LIST YOUR BUSINESS ON THIS PAGE FOR $20 PER MONTH! CALL 251-990-9552 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT FOR NEXT MONTH! This logo indentifies businesses that provide discounts to Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cardholders. See ad on back cover for details.

Coming in

FEBRUARY 2013 Fitness & Nutrition•Health & Wellness Personal Growth•Green Living www.TinyURL.com/DirectoryNA natural awakenings

December 2012

35

Save with the Natural Awakenings Network Card!

To learn more and order your card, visit www.TinyURL.com/NANCard or call 251-990-9552.

HOLIDAY SPECIAL:

Buy One, Get One Free!

Order today to receive two 12-month card memberships for only $40!

Nurture your body, mind and spirit with discounts at the local businesses listed below. Cards are also accepted at more than 1,000 businesses across the country and online.

To view a complete list of providers and their discounts, visit www.TinyURL.com/NANCard.

BEAUTY & SKINCARE Locs of Soul Made in the Shea Warlocks Hair Salon CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS & SERVICES Lily Pads Children’s Consignment Boutique The Little Gym CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractic Life Center Lopez Family Chiropractic ECO-FRIENDLY & NATURAL

David’s Gallery Green Clean Institute for Sustainability Education and Development

Rosie Blu Salt Removers Inc Sweet Home Cleaning Service

EDUCATION/SCHOOLS Hermes Enchanted Garden

Ocean Camp Weinacker’s Montessori

The Pure Vegan Virginia’s Health Foods

ESSENTIAL OILS Healthy Living w/ Essential Oils Young Living

GARDENING Blue Flower Gardens

FITNESS & YOGA Coastal Ballet everyBODY Solution Fairhope Fitness 24 Gulf Coast Martial Arts Planet Gymnastics Pneuma Yoga and Movement Studio Thrive Yoga and Massage Trinity Yoga Yoga Center ECO-FRIENDLY FLORISTS

Stemz FOODS & NUTRITION Fairhope Health Foods The Health Food Center The Health Hut

LIFE COACHING Alive With Adwiti HOLISTIC HEALING Delta Institute Healing Arts MASSAGE & BODYWORK Blissful Massage Cynergy Massage Elements Therapeutic Massage

Healing Acres Momentum Massage Prana Health and Wellness Reiki Center of Fairhope Rosie Bluum MEDITATION Meditation Center of AL

PEST CONTROL Household Termite and Pest Control PET CARE Heavenly Hounds South Paws Pet Spa PREGNANCY & BABIES Birthing From Within Childbirth Preparation Grassroots Holistic Health Coaching My Baby Wears Cloth RECREATION & TRAVEL 5 Rivers Delta Safaris Alabama Paddle Sports Coastal Dreams Travel RESTAURANTS Bangkok Thai Cuisine Moo Che Che Samurai J Sushi Bar Smoothie King Sunflower Cafe