December 2015 Natural Awakenings Sarasota

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

FREE

2015 Nattie Awards

Happy New Year

A Fail-Proof Recipe for an Awesome 2016

Awakening to Spirit

Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

Sweetly Vegan

No-Sugar, No-Bake, No-Guilt

December 2015 | Sarasota/Manatee Edition | nasrq.com

Chosen by National Geographic Traveler as

One of the 100 best worldwide vacations to enrich your life.

Feb. 27 - Mar. 5, 2016 Join our 13th annual Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for 7 nights on the luxurious MSC Divina, one of the most ecologically-friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service all while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods prepared by our own chefs.

Departing from Miami, FL and sailing to beautiful St. Thomas, Virgin Islands; historic San Juan, Puerto Rico; & the paradise of Nassau, Bahamas. Learn more about the classes, cuisine and itinerary at holisticholidayatsea.com.

Food options for everyone - vegan, gluten-free, oil-free & ship’s menu

Join 1800+ Like-Minded Vegans

Lectures & Workshops

Featuring World-Renowned Chefs, Teachers & Healers Co-author of The China Study and author of Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; featured in the film Forks Over Knives

Physician, author, & internationally-recognized speaker on nutrition; founded NutritionFacts.org; spoke at Congress, on Dr. Oz, & the Colbert Report

T. COLIN CAMPBELL, PH.D.

MICHAEL GREGER, M.D.

Founder of the Physicians Commitee for Responsible Medicine; author of Food for Life & Power Foods for the Brain; active health advocate

Swim, snorkel & kayak in the crystal waters of the Caribbean

Long-time radio host, acclaimed physician and health educator; practices nutritionally-based medicine at True North Health Center

NEAL BARNARD, M.D. Chef & author of Unprocessed: How to Achieve Vibrant Health and Your Ideal Weight, inspiring public speaker & cooking instructor

Continuing Education Credits (CMEs & CEUs) will be available Award-winning environmentally-friendly ship

MICHAEL KLAPER, M.D. Yoga teacher, health & wellness coach, aerial performer, stunt woman & actor. Her education stems from a lifetime of living a holistic lifestyle.

CHEF AJ

ANGELICA KUSHI

Dancing, socials & singles events Vegan pizza & ice cream parties Cancer support group & recovery panel 35 teachers 135 lectures & workshops 10 cooking classes, 4 intensives Daily yoga, meditation, Pilates, Qi Gong, Do-In, running, fitness & body building classes Private consultations & treatments available

Relaxing Vacation

Learn More

Spiritual Practices

holisticholidayatsea.com info@holisticholidayatsea.com Toll-Free (US): 1-800-496-0989 Ph: 1-828-749-9537 Or join the conversation: Holistic Holiday at Sea holisticholidayatsea.com/blog

Gourmet Cuisine

Book Today

Lorraine Travel bookings@holisticholidayatsea.com Toll-Free: 1-877-844-7977 Ph: 1-305-443-0542 (option 1 for program information option 2 for travel agent) All reservations for our holistic group must be made through Lorraine Travel

contents 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.

34 AWAKENING

TO SPIRIT

Prayer and Meditation

34

Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

38 HEAVENLY SCENTS

How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

40 SWEETLY VEGAN

38

No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

45 SHARON SALZBERG ON MINDFULNESS Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

by April Thompson

46 AIRPLANE YOGA Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

51

by Cynthia Bowman

48 GREEN

CONGREGATIONS Faith Groups Join in Preserving All Creation

by Avery Mack

51 RECIPE FOR A

HAPPY NEW YEAR Fail-Proof Ingredients for a Glorious 2016

52 EAT, BARK AND BE MERRY

Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

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52

“Yoga is the Poetry of Movement”

26 11 newsbriefs 26 healthbriefs 30 globalbriefs 33 ecotip 38 healingways 30 40 consciouseating 45 wisewords 46 fitbody 48 greenliving

33

51 inspiration

52 naturalpet 72 calendar 77 classifieds 81 resourceguide

Breathe, Relax, Let go Englewood Beach Yoga Every Day - All Year! Holidays Included All are Welcome!

Loving Light Yoga offers Yoga for Every Body - Every Day 8:30am Also offering an Energizing Class to greet the Early Morning Sun with Sun Salutations on Tues & Thurs 7:45am and a Relaxing Sunset Yoga on Wednesday!

All on beautiful Englewood Beach!

Join us inside at Englewood’s Loving Light Healing Center 3455 S. Access Rd., Englewood Gentle Beginner Yoga Vinyasa Flow and Slow Flow Yoga Infused, Aerial Yoga, Chair Yoga Blindfold/Inner Vision Yoga Sound Healing Crystal Bowls with Restorative/Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra & Chakra Yoga

941-473-0135 • www.lovinglightyoga.com

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 941-564-0885 or email Publisher@ nasrq.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.

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

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Please submit all listings through nasrq.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 941-564-0885. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

nasrq.com natural awakenings

December 2015

9

letterfrompublisher

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o quote a familiar holiday tune, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year!”

This season fills me with warmth and contentment as I reconnect with loved ones, reflect on cherished memories and maybe even indulge in a festive cookie—or two!

However, despite the holiday season’s celebratory spirit, we often get caught in the shuffle of searching for that perfect gift, entertaining out-of-town guests, making sure the house is flawlessly decorated, and serving a feast everyone will rave about.

When these stressors threaten your sanity, it’s important to utilize calming self-care rituals like meditation, deep breathing or a yoga flow, for example.

Inside this issue, you’ll find advice for achieving balance in the midst of demanding obligations. Check out “Mindful Moments” which demonstrates how to relieve tension, while re-focusing your energy on what truly matters—quality time with family and friends. Also, don’t miss this month’s “Conscious Eating” article, featuring healthy no-bake treats to sweeten a holiday party. In addition, “Healing Ways” explains how essential oils and natural room fragrances make your home a tranquil, restorative space during this hectic time.

As the seasonal “hustle and bustle” gets underway, I hope this issue provides informative, practical and creative tips to maximize you and your family’s festivities. As always, please feel free to email any comments or suggestions to Publisher@nasrq.com. Here’s to a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year!

contact us Publisher Janet Lindsay Managing Editor Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer Contributing Writer Juliette Jones Calendar Editor Cheryl Hynes Design & Production Susan McCann Web Development Stephen Warne Social Media Manager Stephen Warne

To contact Natural Awakenings Sarasota / Manatee Edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com

© 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

Printed on 100% recycled paper Natural Awakenings is printed on 100% recycled paper with soybased ink.

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newsbriefs European Helix Hair Designer Salon Offers Innovative Haircuts with Organic Products

Florida Integrative Dentistry Announces Ceramic Dental Implants

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eramic dental implants provide better aesthetics, a more permanent tooth replacement solution and better biocompatibility than titanium implants, metal implants, dental bridges or dentures. Whether you’re concerned about potential complications with having metals in the mouth, or if you are simply looking for a more natural result, ceramic dental implants are an ideal alternative to titanium dental implants.

Holistic dentists frequently offer ceramic dental implants to their patients precisely because they support a metal-free philosophy. Therefore, it’s no wonder Dr. Carlo Litano of Florida Integrative Dentistry has been giving his patients the ceramic dental implant option. Contact us for a complimentary consultation, and we will gladly answer all your dental implant related questions. Second opinions are also welcome.

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Location: 2415 University Parkway #215, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-893-5968 or visit FloridaIntegrativeDentistry.com.

American Holistic Nurses Association Annual Conference Coming to Bonita Springs

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he American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) has announced their 36th annual conference, titled “Interconnectedness: the Soul of Holistic Nursing.” This event will take place May 31–June 5, 2016, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs.

Attendees will learn about holistic nursing practices, education and research from healthcare and nursing experts. The conference will offer an enticing and informative schedule of workshops, speakers, exhibitors and networking opportunities.

The featured Certified Nursing Educatorled seminars will include a keynote address by Cassandra Vieten, PhD, Institute of Noetic Sciences president and CEO and Mind-Body Medicine Research Group scientist at California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, and endnote session with Susan Bauer-Wu, PhD, RN, FAAN, Tussi and John Kluge professor in Contemplative End-ofLife Care and University of Virginia School of Nursing’s Compassionate Care Initiative director.

Founded in 1981, AHNA promotes increasing awareness and education of holistic nursing practices, as well as community-building among nurses, healthcare professionals and the public. AHNA currently serves more than 4,500 members and over 140 chapters across the globe.

Nurses, educators, administrators and other healthcare practitioners from all specialties are welcome to attend this event. Come experience the healing value of a holistic community, networking, sharing circles and mentorship.

Registration will open January 2016, with discounted Early Bird rates before February 15.

y name is Jutta Mestas, and I am originally from Germany. I own and operate European Helix Hair Designer Salon in Port Charlotte. If you prefer a clean, scent-free environment that uses nontoxic products to create beautiful hairstyles, this is the salon for you.

I offer organic hair colors, highlights and perms, made from blueberries. Organic Color Systems (OCS) and All Nutrient Colors are both ammonia-free products that you’ll find in this salon. I also offer Helix Haircuts which are ideal for people with baby-fine hair. Whether your hair is long or short, this cut provides a low-maintenance style with added volume, waves and even curls, if you desire. I have been performing the Helix cut for over 13 years, and I can personally testify to its versatility.

For those with natural waves or curls, I also specialize in the “Diva Cut” and “Magic Meches” (highlights), specifically for curly hair. In addition, I provide Balayage, a French highlighting technique for natural, sun-kissed results. I look forward to assisting you with any of these techniques and applications. If your hair is not becoming to you, then you should “be coming” to see me!

Location: 701 JC Center Ct., Unit 10, Port Charlotte. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 941-6290074 or visit EuropeanHairDesigner.com.

For more information or to reserve your spot, visit AHNA.org/Conference/ Registration. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Saving Lives through Animal Rescue Coalition’s Emergency Medical Fund

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very month, homeless animals are saved by ARC’s Emergency Medical Fund (EMF) and given a second chance in life. Thank you, Humane Society of Sarasota County, for sharing our passion and providing EMF patients with the medical treatment they need.

For more information on EMF adoption, call Sarasota County Sherriff’s Office Animal Services at 941-861-9523. To support EMF, visit AnimalRescueCoalition.org/Donate. aspx.

Animal Rescue Coalition Announces “Unconditional Love Gala”

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ark your calendars for February 20, 2016, at 6:30 p.m., Michael’s On East. Enjoy an evening of elegant dining, dancing, live auctions and powerful messages. All proceeds go directly to Animal Rescue Coalition’s (ARC) Spay & Neuter Program and Emergency Medical Fund.

Music will be provided by The Big Z Band.

The 2016 Unconditional Love Gala is sponsored by the following generous donors: • “Best in Show”—$10,000 (Joana Pace-Brackett & David Brackett) • “Cat’s Meow”—$5,000 (Judith Ragona) • “Top Dog”—$2,500 (Dawn & Michael Epstein) • “Fur-Ever Friend”—$1,000 (Allison Silver & Hardy Schwartz) • Location: 1212 S East Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $250 (individual tickets). For more information on purchasing tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit AnimalRescueCoalition.org/Events/2016 UnconditionalLoveGala.aspx

Beth A. Snyder Hypnosis Has Relocated

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eth A. Snyder, Clinical Hypnotherapist, is pleased to announce her business’s relocation, as she joins the group of wellness practitioners and Doctors at Hornberger Chiropractic and Wellness. This relocation commemorates the beginning of Snyder’s third year in business after successfully growing her practice here in Sarasota.

At Beth A. Snyder Hypnosis, you will find complimentary self-hypnosis recordings and resources for cultivating the life you desire. Snyder offers complimentary consultations, both in person or over the phone. She believes every individual is unique, and her approach to help people reach their goals will be customized to each client’s specific needs.

Professional clinical hypnotherapy is useful for improving medical conditions and overcoming anxiety or depression with a medical referral. If you are struggling to reach a health goal or simply want peace and wellness in your life, visit Snyder’s newly relocated practice.

Location: 4001 Swift Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-228-8020, email BethSnyderHypnosis@gmail.com or visit BethSnyderHypnosis.com.

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Holiday Open House at Beach Life Wellness of Nokomis

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each Life Wellness will be hosting a public open house on December 12, 1–3 p.m., to celebrate two years in business. Meet owners Lucho and Lana De Vettori, as well as the entire Beach Life Wellness team.

Their holistic facility in a peaceful cottage near Nokomis Beach offers a full menu of professional massage services, body wraps, organic facials, acupuncture, and private personal training and nutrition advice.

The open house will feature free demo treatments, table Thai massages, chair massages, organic oxygen ultrasonic facials, a 10-minute functional training fitness demo, discounted holiday gift certificates, festive refreshments and more! Special offers and discounts are available only to attendees on the day of this event. The holiday gift certificates may include the following options: a $59 massage, $40 personal training, a $90 90-minute Mango massage and scrub, or a $65 organic facial.

Bring a friend and come meet the team, receive free demo treatments, enjoy holiday refreshments and mark a few gifts off your holiday shopping list!

Location: 301 Albee Rd., Nokomis. For more information, call 941-244-2006, email BeachLifeWellness@gmail.com or visit BeachLifeWellness.com.

to receive a wellness-related service, class or item from the Rosemary Court Wellness Community. In addition, donors may qualify to receive discounts on certain services with Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu and Five Petal Holistic Healing.

On December 11, help yourself while helping the community. For a donation of five or more food items, attend “Guided Jin Shin Jyutsu: Hands-On Self-Healing Meditation.” Calm your mind and clear physical, mental and emotional tension in this guided meditation-style class. Sit in a chair or lie on a yoga mat, then follow instructions to perform hands-on energy harmonizing flows on your body.

Reserve your space by 4 p.m. on December 11.

Rosemary Court Wellness Community Food Drive for All Faiths Food Bank

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he Rosemary Court Wellness Community is holding a food drive to support All Faiths Food Bank. Food donations can be made December 3 through December 22, at Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, Rosemary Court Yoga, Rosemary Birthing Home and Five Petal Holistic Healing.

All Faiths Food Bank serves people in need by distributing donations to food pantries, soup kitchens, schools, veterans’ programs, youth organizations, senior centers and emergency shelters.

As a “thank-you,” anyone who donates can enter a raffle

For more information, contact any of the following businesses: Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu. Location: 810 Central Ave., Sarasota. Call 941-228-2972 or email Michelle@SuncoastJSJ. com. To reserve your space in the December 11 workshop, contact Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu as well.

Rosemary Court Yoga. Location: 810 Central Ave., Sarasota.

Call 941-952-5280 or email RosemaryCourt@Yahoo.com.

Rosemary Birthing Home. Location: 800 Central Ave., Sarasota. Call 941-330-9966.

Five Petal Holistic Healing Center. Location: 830 Central Ave., Sarasota. Call 941-315-6858 or email FivePetalHealing@Gmail.com.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Creating Scared Space Workshop

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n January 2, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., local artist and energy practitioner Maggie Davenport will be facilitating a workshop designed to refresh, renew and ground yourself in the New Year.

This workshop will include discovering tools for creating and maintaining sacred space, creating your own alter piece to take home, working with prayer beads, participating in a Tibetan bowl tea circle and meditation and experiencing personalized power symbols. Attendees will also receive a 12-month journal of inspiration.

The admission fee includes all supplies, lunch, and a choice if gift certificate for a one-hour Energy Work session or a custom altarpiece painting by Davenport.

Location: 1435 S Osprey Ave., Suite 200, Sarasota. Cost: $175. For more information, call 941-400-8757 or email DavenportMaggie@ yahoo.com.

Abrams Dermatology Offers Skin Tightening and Smoothing Treatments

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ublative RF rejuvenation and microneedling are two aesthetic treatments that are used for revitalizing the skin. These treatments smooth rough texture, help correct acne scars and stimulate collagen to firm and tone skin.

RF—or, radio frequency—is a treatment that uses bi-polar radio frequency energy for dermal heating for maximum collagen production.

Microneedling is a treatment that uses a mechanical tool with tiny needles that make microscopic puncture wounds that allow medical grade products to penetrate deep into the dermis and stimulate collagen production and the growth of new skin cells. Each treatment requires a series of three treatments, done four weeks apart for optimum results with minimal downtime, consisting of redness and rough skin.

For the month of January, we have combined these two treatments for the ultimate in skin smoothing and tightening. This package of three eMatrix and three Microneedling treatments is now $1499. To see if these treatments are right for you, schedule a complimentary consult with Catherine Deans at Abrams Dermatology where you can discuss all your skin care needs.

Location: 3288 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota. To schedule an appointment, call 941-926-2300. For more information, email CDeans@ AbramsDerm.com or visit AbramsDerm.com.

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Helping Parents Heal: a Safe Place for Bereaved Parents, Family and Friends

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elping Parents Heal (HPH) is an organization that offers support and resources to the loved ones of children who passed away, aiding them in the healing process. HPH facilitates discussion of spiritual experiences and afterlife evidence in a nondogmatic approach. Everyone is welcome to engage in this open dialogue, regardless of religious (or nonreligious) background.

Through personal experience, the leaders of HPH recognize several factors that contribute to the healing process. These elements include caring support from others, interaction with people who have also experienced loss, service to others, personal transformation and discovering a reason for hope. In particular, we encourage hope that comes from acknowledging our spiritual natures and understanding that our loved ones continue in spiritual form after physical death.

Evidence for this truth has been revealed through documented clinical and scientific evidence, undeniable signs and synchronicities, specific and detailed messages relayed by psychicmediums, and even direct contact with deceased children. Some spiritual practices exercised by many HPH leaders include meditation, prayer, yoga and service to others. We are an all-embracing, nonreligious organization that respects the various ways people express their own spirituality.

HPH supports parents, grandparents, siblings, and other close relatives or friends of a child— including the parents of deceased adult children— who died by any means. The local branch of this organization meets at Unity of Sarasota on the second Wednesday of each month, 7–9 p.m.

Location: 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. Suggested donation: $5. For more information, call 740701-9793, email Mark@SoulProof.com or visit UnityOfSarasota.com.

Give the Gift of Yoga

R Rock the Bhakti this New Year’s Eve at Garden of the Heart Yoga

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ecember 31 marks Garden of the Heart Yoga Center’s second annual New Year’s Eve Kirtan Jam. This free event will kick off the “Rock the Bhakti” Kirtan and Yoga Festival.

Kirtan is a spiritual practice of Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of love, service and devotion. Kirtan, a musical practice, is typically done with a leader and “responders,” where the leader chants (or sings) a mantra, and everyone else repeats it back to create a spiritual sing-along. On New Year’s Eve, the Kirtan community will gather at 8 p.m. for a vegan potluck, after which the music will begin.

Everyone is invited to participate and bring an instrument, drum, song, poem or favorite mantra. No previous experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome. The event will end around 12:30 a.m., after we ring in the New Year.

The rest of the weekend will offer opportunities to participate in both Kirtan and yoga as well. On January 1, 2016, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Garden of the Heart will hold its annual New Year’s Day Benefit class which is free to attend (donations to a cause are accepted). Afterward, the fun will continue with more Kirtan and yoga classes and workshops through January 3.

Local and nationally known Kirtan artists will participate including Wah!, Missy Balsam, Blue Spirit Wheel, Cheryl Chaffee, Rick Franz and others. This event will culminate with a Healing Concert by Wah! at Bradenton’s Bishop Planetarium in Bradenton, 9 p.m.

Location: 2888 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota.

For the festival schedule and ticket pricing (including an all-inclusive weekend option), visit GardenOfTheHeartYoga. com. For more information, call 941-341-9781 or email Cheryl@ GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

osemary Court Yoga is offering a special package throughout the holiday season which includes a one-hour private yoga session in our studio, a personalized yoga session, three group classes and a Rosemary Court Yoga t-shirt.

This is an ideal gift for friends or loved ones, as well as the perfect way to treat yourself during this busy time of year!

Location: 810 Central Ave., Sarasota. Cost: $100. To purchase, call 941952-5280 or email RosemaryCourt@yahoo.com. For more information, visit RosemaryCourt.com.

Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna Anti-Aging Seminar

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n December 11 at 1 p.m., Dr. Anna Baker, DOM, will give a seminar about Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna, her revolutionary anti-aging serum made from real pearls and Chinese herbs without any preservatives.

Pearls contain amino acids that retighten muscles and slowly return the face to its younger look with daily use.

Dr. Anna will show picture of results on patients from various age groups. Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna is also available as a muscle-tightening body lotion, a men’s anti-aging line and a sports performance line.

Location: 2721 Mall Dr., Sarasota. Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-921-2662 or visit PearlCreamByDrAnna.com.

When the Spine Shifts...

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-Headaches -Low Back pain -Mid Back pain -Migraines -Muscle Spasm -Neck Pain -Numbness/Tingling -Numbness/ -Tendonitis -TMJ Issues

Call To Schedule A Complimentary Consultation It’s a conversation, Not a Commitment

717 Honore Avenue Sarasota, FL 34232

941 342 1291

The INSIGHT

www.mainstaychiropractic.com

Get your COREscore today! (see press release)

natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Top Sarasota Dentist Graduates from Misch International Implant Institute

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r. Brian P. Hoffman of Hoffman Dental recently completed one of the nation’s most extensive surgical implant programs.

Misch Surgical Implant Course graduates must successfully complete 90 Continued Education Units (CEUs), ranging from Soft Tissue Manipulation and Implant Biomechanics to Bone Grafting and Autogenous Bone Harvesting.

Dr. Hoffman also completed an additional 14 CEUs on Implant Complications, qualifying him for an International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) Fellowship. This fellowship will be conferred at a ceremony to be held in Miami during February 2016.

Established in 1984, the world-renowned Misch International Implant Institute has elevated the standard of care in implant dentistry with its hands-on approach to training. The year-long Misch Surgical Implant Course is recognized by the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association’s Continuing Education Recognition Program.

“Through continued education programs like the Misch Surgical Implant Course, the addition of Platelet-Rich Fibrin for advanced oral surgery healing, and state-of-the-art technologies like the revolutionary CEREC system which allows us to mill and place natural-looking inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges and veneers in just one visit, we can offer our patients immeasurably more than many other practices,” says Dr. Hoffman.

Location: 3920 Bee Ridge Rd., Bld. E, Suite D, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-922-4546 or visit DrBrianHoffman.com.

Experience Radiant Skin in Time for the Holidays

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n December 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Abrams Dermatology will be hosting an Obagi Blue Radiance Peel event to help attendees achieve beautiful, younger-looking skin. This event will include an Obagi Radiance Peel for $75, along with 20% off Obagi skin care products. This is an ideal time to stock up on cleanser, toner and other results-driven Obagi essentials.

The Obagi Blue Radiance Peel is a superficial “lunchtime” peel that will leave your skin glowing, just in time for holiday get-togethers. This light chemical peel will remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother and more refined looking skin. It also addresses a multitude of skin conditions such as fine lines, uneven tone and texture, discoloration, acne and acne scarring.

The treatment requires a quick in-office appointment with minimal downtime. Most people “flake” or experience mild peeling within three days of the treatment. Flaking typically lasts just a few days. Obagi medical skin care has been a leader in the industry of for 20 years. Proven results are delivered when using Obagi to correct skin conditions such as hyper-pigmentation, sun damage and acne.

Location: 3328 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-9262300, email CDeans@AbramsDerm.com or visit AbramsDerm.com.

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CROP Organic Juice Bar & Café Opens New Location

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ROP Juice is opening a third location on Tourist Center Drive across from University Town Center. Since opening its first store in the Gulf Gate area of Sarasota in January 2014, CROP has been recognized among the Suncoast’s premier cold-pressed organic juice companies.

Founded by a former oncology nurse, CROP is best known for offering concentrated nutrient-dense leafy green juice mixed with fruit. More than 20 varieties are available on any given day.

The juices are hand-crafted daily, and CROP has also recently introduced mylks, smoothies, overnight oats, desserts, energy bites and other food items. Vegetarian and vegan meals will soon be offered as well, including porridge for breakfast and collard green wraps or salads for lunch and dinner.

Mark Chait, executive director for leasing at Benderson Development—the company who developed this shopping center, explains why CROP is an ideal fit. “[CROP] is unique to the UTC collection of properties,” he says. “[The owners] are experienced operators, and they have a passion for their business. I think they have the best cold-pressed juice in greater Sarasota-Manatee. It’s coldpressed every day, and when you want to put together juices, the staff is extremely knowledgeable.”

CROP will officially open on Tourist Center Drive on November 21, at 8 a.m. There will be a grand opening celebration after the New Year. CROP is also opening a downtown Sarasota location in the Ellis building lobby, at the corner of Orange Avenue and Main Street.

Location: 8211 Tourist Center Dr., Bradenton. Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-358-8182 or visit CropJuiceSRQ.com.

Acupuncture Facelift Frasier Fir Is Back Seminar with Dr. Anna at Elysian Fields

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n December 9 at 2 p.m., Dr. Anna Baker, DOM and founder of Faces by Dr. Anna, will present a seminar on changing the course of facial aging with her muscle tightening acupuncture face and necklift. Her technique reverses aging in both neck and facial muscles, returning the original features. Dr. Anna has a database of over 500 patients, and she will show pictures of results for various ages and face types. Her seminar will be held at the Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna store.

A nationally board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Dr. Anna has been practicing in Sarasota since 1998. She has developed a specialty in muscle tightening acupuncture face and necklift, with no needles used on the face. Up to three treatments can be done in one day with a 10-treatment minimum. After treatments are completed, a one or two treatment touch-up is suggested every 18 months to maintain the lift. Dr. Anna’s work has been nationally televised, and she has been voted Sarasota’s favorite anti-aging practitioner.

Location: 2721 Mall Dr., Sarasota. For seminar reservations or to schedule a free consultation, call 941-924-2723. To view before-and-after pictures, visit FacesbyDrAnna.com.

Revealing Your True Self, Introduction to Yoga Nidra Workshop

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hen expressing ourselves, we often mask our values, goals, dreams and achievements. Our true selves remain buried beneath the self-image we portray to others. Our outward personalities–the traits we identify with—occupy our attention, distort our perception, and obstruct us from knowing the limitless self within. In our spiritual search, however, we pine after the self behind all these surface images.

Yoga Nidra Meditation is a process of unveiling this self by disengaging the mind from its constant chatter and emotional entanglement. This practice moves us from the periphery of daily distractions to the center of our true beings.

From this center, arises stillness which absorbs all disturbances, illusions, sorrow, pre-programmed perceptions, self-destructive behaviors and false concepts. As we progressively come into contact with our inner sources, life becomes joyful and fulfilling, and the meaning of our existence begins to reveal itself.

So, if you want to start the New Year by connecting with your inner self, sign up for this free Yoga Nidra workshop, taking place on January 9, 12–2 p.m., at Journey into Complete Well-Being Yoga & Meditation Center.

Location: 265 E Marion Ave., Suite 117C, Punta Gorda. For more information, call 772-485-0605 or visit JouneyInStudio.com.

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is the season for making your home look and smell inviting holiday gatherings, and no scent captures this seasonal spirit better than time-honored Thymes Frasier Fir products. Notes of crisp Siberian Fir, warming Cedarwood and relaxing Sandalwood are united to create a scent that evokes warmth and coziness.

The festive candles, room sprays, diffusers, potpourri oil and sachets fill your home with a delightful, just-cut forest fragrance that complements seasonal celebrations, family visits and the winter solstice.

Thymes Frasier Fir products are ideal for entertaining, holiday decor, hostess gifts and more. In addition, this year, are limited edition single and triple wick candles encased in ivory-colored ceramic, embossed with a wood-grain pattern and trimmed with 24-carat gold—exquisite display pieces. These accessories are available now at Elysian Fields, along with a host of other Thymes fragrances and products, perfect for gift-giving. May your holidays be filled with love, light, warmth and good spirit, from Elysian Fields—Sarasota’s favorite “destination for inspiration.”

Location: 1273 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-361-3006 or visit ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. ~Maya Angelou

natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Healthy Holiday Gifts by Nutritious You & Ava Anderson

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utritious You and Ava Anderson are excited to invite you to a Healthy Holiday Gift Event on December 5, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. During this open-house social, stop by and purchase a gift basket or gift certificate from Nutritious You. Also, check out Ava Anderson’s line of non-toxic products for your body, baby, pet home, car and more. Every product will be available to sample, and pre-wrapped natural holiday gifts will be ready to take home. We have no shortage of healthy items for your healthy stockings.

Ava Anderson is a full line of completely non-toxic products for every member of your household. Our products are made with 100% certified organic essential oils and botanicals. We even offer festive holiday candles and scrubs. Nutritious You is a local brand of nutrient-dense snacks, take-out or deli foods, healthy drinks and guilt-free desserts. Essential oils, diffusers and some educational materials are also available for purchase. The product line is raw, vegan and organic. Nutritious You was created by Marina Sommers, AADP certified health coach, who can answer your questions during this event.

In addition, we will be raffling off healthy gifts from both Nutritious You and Ava Anderson. You can get a ticket just for showing up and another for bringing a friend.

Receive two tickets if you mention this news brief and corresponding advertisement.

Location: 6583 Midnight Pass Rd. #10, Siesta Key. For more information, call 941536-8051, email RabbitFox8@gmail.com, or visit AvaAndersonNonToxic.com/ AshleyLight and NutritiousYou.com.

Enjoy More Joy and Less Stress with Jin Shin Jyutsu

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eceive relaxation, rejuvenation and relief with the ancient, hands-on healing art Jin Shin Jyutsu. During the month of December, long-time practitioner Michelle Giambra, of Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, is offering a discount on packages of two or three personal energy harmonizing sessions. Gift certificates are available. Give yourself or someone you love the opportunity to experience this unique healing art which provides harmonization on all levels—physically, mentally and emotionally.

A special component of Jin Shin Jyutsu is that you can practice it on your own body to restore and maintain a harmonious flow of life energy. Every month, Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu offers “Hands-On Self-Healing Meditation,” a guided meditation-style class through which both novices and seasoned students can experience Jin Shin Jyutsu self-help. The next class will take place on December 11.

All attendees are asked to bring a donation of five food items which will be given to All Faiths Food Bank. Reserve your space by 4 p.m. on December 11.

Widely known more than 3,000 years ago, Jin Shin Jyutsu was dramatically revived in Japan during 1912 by Jiro Murai who healed himself of a “terminal” illness. Giambra, Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help Instructor and Practitioner, LMT has 18 years of experience providing personal energy harmonizing sessions and self-care classes. She won the 2014 Natural Choice Awards for “Favorite Energy Healer” and “Favorite Holistic Practitioner.”

Jin Shin Jyutsu is a gentle, non-invasive supplement to all therapies. It is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or other healthcare professional.

Location: 810 Central Ave., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-228-2972, email Michelle@SuncoastJSJ.com or visit SuncoastJSJ.com.

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Bright Life Offers New Event Series: “Meditation for Busy People with Busy Minds”

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right Life, an award-winning gift shop and education center and Natural Awakenings’ 2014 winner for “Favorite Business of the Year,” will now offer a meditation series designed for busy people with busy minds.

In the last few years, there has been an upsurge of people touting the benefits of meditation, yet the reality is that many people are resistant to trying it. Meditation can be misconstrued as being forced to sit uncomfortably for extended periods, while wasting precious time. This general impression, coupled with the fact that it’s often impossible to silence a busy mind, undoubtedly prevents many from practicing meditation.

Knowing this is frequently the case, but desiring to show people how meditation can dramatically improve their lives, Bright Life has decided to offer a wide array of meditations that specifically help busy people with busy minds experience success with meditation. Each type of meditation has been selected, based on methodology that engages the busy mind.

Therefore, Bright Life hopes that one form will resonate and become a daily regimen in people’s hectic schedules. Each participant will leave feeling more relaxed and brighter, or the class will be refunded.

For a complete listing of events and descriptions, visit BrightLife-USA. com and click on the “Events” tab.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs “Shake Your Soul” at Garden of the Heart Yoga Center

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re you ready to discover your soul in motion? Linda Joffe, dance instructor and expressive arts facilitator, will offer a free community “Shake Your Soul” class in collaboration with Garden of the Heart Yoga Center. This free class is scheduled for December 20, 12:30 p.m. Regular Shake Your Soul classes will resume after the New Year on the third Sunday of each month, also at 12:30 p.m.

The first regular class will take place on January 17, 2016.

Shake Your Soul is a unique and invigorating approach to body-spirit fitness.

Also known as the “yoga of dance,” it incorporates elements of movement therapy, Qi Gong, yoga and dance. Each class is balances both directed and spontaneous movement which relax the nervous system, energize the body and awaken the soul through a powerful, fluid dance repertoire set to world music. No formal dance training is needed.

“Dancing is one of the best forms of exercise because it combines aerobic elements with some form of coordination movement which activates the cerebellum to enhance thinking and cognitive flexibility,” says Joffe, a longtime yoga practitioner and NIA white belt. “With Shake Your Soul, the inspirational music and fluid movements make dancing an emotional, sensual and physical experience. It can also release tension and lift depression.”

Location: 2888 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Cost for regular classes: $15. For advanced sign-up, visit GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Drop-ins welcome.

Joffe also facilitates weekly Shake Your Soul classes at Radiant Soul Yoga and Wellness (3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota). For complete schedules and costs, call 941-376-5162 or email LFJoffe@aol.com.

Safe & Natural Nail & Skin Care We know you’ll love Epiphany, so we invite you to the Sanctuary, for a $50 Introductory Facial or Massage or $40 Natural Pedicure Treatment.

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Unique Sanitary Perfection for your Protection!

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natashacrow.com

Fitness for the Mind & Body: Exercise Classes and Personal Training

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mprove your health, happiness and quality of life with fitness programming designed to balance your mind and body for overall wellbeing.

Deanna Amodie, Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor, has been a fitness enthusiast for over 20 years and began training professionally in 2004.

She specializes in all phases of exercise including weight loss workouts, strength and core stability training, balance, coordination and flexibility. Amodie teaches exercise classes and offers personal, partner and small group Training sessions. You can even form your own private group with friends and family.

Amodie’s mind-body approach to fitness uses all the major foundations of exercise programming, combined with techniques for relaxation and stress reduction. You will experience this connection between your mind and muscles which offers numerous health benefits.

Her programs provide each client with a well-rounded routine based on age, fitness level and goals. Amodie has worked with clients, from ages 18 to over 50—each with different bodies, goals and struggles. She can help you achieve results, while motivating and supporting you on your personal fitness journey.

For more information on class times, costs and locations, call 631-944-0505, email TrainingWithDee@gmail.com or visit TrainingWithDee.com.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Holiday Gift Ideas from Omega3 Innovations

This holiday season, give your friends and family the gift of wellness with these delicious, nutrient-dense and heart healthy products from Omega3 Innovations.

Gifts for Grandparents: Give the older generation a bottle of Omega Cure to help keep joint pains at bay.

Omega­3 fish oil works on the same biochemical pathways as Aleve and Tylenol, but only if you get an effective dose every day—equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh, pleasant tasting Omega Cure. The cost is $44.95 per bottle.

Gifts for Hosts and Hostesses: Are you tired of bringing the same bottle of wine or box of chocolates to holiday parties? Then, try a healthier spin on traditional sweets with a tin of Omega Passion.

Each chocolate truffle will satisfy your recipient’s sweet tooth with decadent, antioxidant-rich dark chocolate. Complete with 300mg of EPA/DHA omega­3 and soluble oat fiber, Omega Passion makes a thoughtful gift for the health conscious people in your life. The cost is $21.95 per tin. Available in classic of mint flavors.

Gifts for Students: Treat students to a convenient, on­the­go breakfast to enhance their academic performance—a chocolate covered Omega Heaven cookie. Studies indicate that consuming a high dose of omega­3 every day can improve the working memory of young adults. What better way to get 1000mg of EPA/DHA than by eating a nutritious Omega Heaven cookie on the way to class? The cost is $29.95 per bag.

Convenient Stocking Stuffers: The individually wrapped Omega Cookie makes a great stocking stuffer treat.

Delivering 2000mg of EPA/DHA omega­3, fiber, vitamin D and calcium, this treat is a nutritional powerhouse. Plus, with its gluten­free and diabetic­friendly ingredients, the Omega Cookie makes an excellent breakfast the whole family can enjoy. The cost is $29.95 per box. Available in chocolate chip, cranberry, ginger raisin and variety.

Location: 727 Commerce Dr., Venice. For more information, call 1-941-485-4400 or visit Omega3Innovations.com.

“Looking into the Crystal Ball” Fundraiser Event

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riends of Selby Public Library will sponsor the sixth annual “Looking into the Crystal Ball” fundraiser on January 13, 2016. This event will take place inside Selby Public Library from 6–9 p.m. Over two dozen local restaurants and food vendors will offer tasty samplings of their specialties.

There will also be a fun and eclectic variety of more than 30 continuous quality performances. Enjoy intuitive readers and exhibits, featuring artists, authors and more.

In addition, cash donation bars will be set up around the venue. All proceeds will support Selby Library’s youth programs.

Location: 1331 First Street, Sarasota. Cost: $25 (in advance), $30 (at the door).

For more information and to purchase tickets, call 941-861-1140, email Admin@ SelbyLibraryFriends.org or visit SelbyLibraryFriends.org.

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Mainstay Chiropractic Announces Test to Identify Hidden Body Stress

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rs. Jill and Beau Smith of Mainstay Chiropractic have joined a growing number of chiropractic doctors who are upgrading their level of care to assess community health.

Patients of Mainstay Chiropractic can now receive a COREscore™ report that helps identify hidden body stress and its affect on the body’s well-being.

This non-invasive The COREscore™ reading can be completed in less than 15 minutes and produces instant feedback to the patient. Mainstay Chiropractic uses the Insight technology, certified by the Space Foundation and used on Super Bowl champions, Olympic Gold medalists and star athletes around the world.

“We are extremely excited to bring this exciting technology to our community,” states Dr. Beau Smith.

“Providing the highest level of care for patients is our goal, and the COREscore™ is a simple yet powerful way to measure and report the efficiency of a person’s spinal nerves.”

Mainstay Chiropractic patients have the added benefit of being able to view their COREscore™ online anytime through the private patient website.

Location: 717 Honore Ave., Sarasota.

For more information, call 941-3421291, email DrSmith@MainstayChiro. com or visit MainstayChiro.com.

Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness Opens New Studio

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adiant Soul Yoga’s newly opened space on Lockwood Ridge Road is a special place with a unique look and calming atmosphere,” says owner Patty Seidensticker. This studio offers Gentle Yoga, Kundalini, Vinyasa Flow and Yin Yoga classes for all levels. Equipment is provided, and no prior skills or experience are necessary to participate.

In addition, Mat Pilates and Gyrokenesis classes are offered to build core strength. Dance classes get participants off the mat with Shake Your Soul and Conscious Movement. Also, the relaxation-based classes will teach you how to release daily tensions with Conscious Relaxation and the Gong Meditation evening, as well as Art for Healing that requires no previous knowledge—just a willingness to come and create.

Radiant Soul Yoga’s intention for each participant to “experience your best life” through these classes, workshops and special events. These offerings will allow you to learn, grow and reach for the infinite possibilities available to you in this present life. Radiant Soul Yoga wants to create a community, tribe and space where you can make new friends and share new adventures without even leaving Sarasota. However, upcoming journeys to exotic places in distant lands will be offered as well.

The instructors have gone to school and studied many years in order to impart these various healing modalities that can bring awareness and healing to your body, mind, heart and soul. Health and nutrition counseling, ayurvedic nutrition information, private lessons and women’s workshops are also offered. “Come join us and enjoy our many options for to experience your best life,” adds Seidensticker.

Location: 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-380-1206, email Patty@ RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com or visit RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com. natural awakenings

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petbriefs

actionalert

Cat Depot Hosts “Holiday Dangers for Pets” Presentation

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n December 3, 6–7 p.m., Dr. Laurie Putnam will present “Holiday Dangers for Pets” in Cat Depot’s Education and Activity Center. Dr. Putnam has been practicing veterinary medicine in Sarasota since 1999, as the Medical Director at Englewood’s Suncoast Humane Society and a relief veterinarian at the Animal Medical Clinic of Gulf Gate.

Throughout this presentation, Dr. Putnam will explain how, in the midst of seasonal decorating and entertaining, pets can often become exposed to potential household or environmental hazards. The event is free, with a suggested donation of Friskies wet cat food or any brand of dry cat food.

Cat Depot, a nonprofit, 501(c)3 no-kill, free-roaming facility, is recognized for its progressive design and commitment to helping homeless, abandoned and injured animals. Open seven days a week, Cat Depot’s mission is to save lives, find loving homes, and provide the resources and education to improve the destiny of homeless cats.

On any given day, this shelter supports more than 130 cats and kittens.

Location: 2542 17th St., Sarasota. Hours: Monday–Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-366-2402 or visit CatDepot.org.

December Deadline for Florida Solar Ballot Initiative

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total of 683,149 certified signatures are required to put the Florida constitutional amendment, Limits or Prevents Barriers to Local Solar Electricity Supply, on the November 2016 ballot. Petitions must be signed and submitted by the end of December to insure that this happens.

Floridians for Solar Choice, a grassroots citizens’ effort to allow more homes and businesses to generate electricity by harnessing the power of the sun, is promoting this constitutional amendment that would give Florida’s families and businesses the right to choose solar power. Volunteers from organizations including the League of Women Voters of Florida, Florida Retail Federation, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Christian Coalition of America and Florida Tea Party are supporting the signing of petitions and collecting signatures at family and faith gatherings, concerts and farmers’ markets.

Although sunshine is abundant, currently, Florida is one of only five states in the nation that prohibit citizens from buying electricity from companies that will put solar panels on personal residences or business. This prohibition limits customer choice and blocks the growth of this abundant, clean, homegrown energy source.

Past legislative efforts to overcome barriers to solar choice have been blocked by large, monopolistic utility companies such as Florida Power and Light (FPL) and Duke Energy. These power companies do not want to lose their exclusive hold on Florida’s electric customers or their income.

Floridians for Solar Choice supporters believe that Florida citizens should have the right and freedom to choose solar power generated electricity if and from whom they want.

“Don’t be fooled by the confusing language of Consumers for Smart Solar, an organization that put forth its own solar power constitutional amendment. On the surface it appears pro-solar, but instead will only maintain the status quo. The group, mostly backed by the state’s utility companies, is using the oldest political ploy in the book by trying to confuse people,” says Susan Glickman, Florida director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization behind Floridians for Solar Choice.

To sign the petition, get more information, or print copies to circulate, visit FLSolarChoice.org

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December 2015

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More than an Ad...

It’s a presence in our community.

Advertising with Natural Awakenings reaches your direct market and allows you to be seen in print, online, on Facebook and Twitter, on mobile devices, and through email blasts.

Our conscious consumers are looking for you!

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Natural Awakenings continues to be our number one lead source. J Kamore, Macys Pest Control.

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healthbriefs

People Double Up on Calories After the Holidays

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espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and after-holiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “less-healthy”. Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations.

Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more calorie-dense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

Asbestos Found in Crayons and Children’s Toys

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esearch from the Environmental Working Group’s Action Fund has determined that some popular children’s toys contain a chemical that previous research has linked to lung disease and lung cancers. The researchers tested 28 boxes of crayons and 21 crime-themed toys at the Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina. They found that four of the crayon brands and two of the crime-scene toys contained asbestos.

All of the asbestos-containing toys were manufactured in China. The products included the Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brands of crayons, the EduScience Deluxe Forensics Lab Kit and the Inside Intelligence Secret Spy Kit. The latter two brands contained asbestos within the fingerprint powders.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos from all sources is responsible for up to 15,000 U.S. deaths each year.

www.nasrq.com

Digital ‘Blue Light’ Reading Disrupts Sleep Rhythms

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ecent findings from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, has determined that reading from a light-emitting tablet or computer before bedtime will disturb sleep and may change the circadian rhythms that govern the body’s clock.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, tested 12 people for two weeks.

On five nights during one week, the subjects read ebooks on an iPad for four hours before bedtime. Another week, they read from printed books for the same duration.

During the five days of iPad reading, the participants fell asleep later and spent less time in rapid eye movement (REM)-stage sleep. The light-emitting tablet altered the circadian rhythm, changing the body’s natural sleeping pattern. The researchers also tested other blue-light emitting devices, including laptops, tablets, other eReaders, cell phones and LED monitors.

“We found the body’s natural circadian rhythms were interrupted by the shortwavelength enriched light, otherwise known as blue light, from these electronic devices,” says neuroscientist Anne-Marie Chang, Ph.D., one of the study authors.

Dr. Charles Czeisler, Ph.D., a leading sleep researcher, remarks, “In the past 50 years, there has been a decline in average sleep duration and quality. Since more people are choosing electronic devices for reading, communication and entertainment, particularly children and adolescents who already experience significant sleep loss, epidemiological research evaluating the long-term consequences of these devices on health and safety is urgently needed.”

Potatoes Don’t Pack on Pounds

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esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain. The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating high-GI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

Spirituality is Beneficial for Cancer Patients

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ccording to a new review of research published in the journal Cancer, a strong religious or spiritual belief system may improve a cancer patient’s prognosis physically, emotionally and mentally.

Researchers from Florida’s H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute and North Carolina’s Wake Forest School of Medicine reviewed clinical studies that included more than 44,000 cancer patients. The first review focused on physical symptoms and found that patients with stronger religious and spiritual beliefs reported fewer cancer symptoms and better physical health. They also showed enhanced capabilities in managing their daily lives.

“These relationships were particularly strong in patients that experienced greater emotional aspects of religion and spirituality, including a sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as a connection to a source larger than oneself,” states Heather Jim, lead author of the first review.

The second review focused on mental health and found reductions in anxiety, depression and distress among those with greater spirituality. Lead author Dr. John Salsman comments, “Also, greater levels of spiritual distress and a sense of disconnectedness from God or a religious community were associated with greater psychological distress or poorer emotional well-being.”

In the third review, the researchers found that patients with a stronger spiritual well-being reported better social health, as well.

Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.

natural awakenings

~Tori Amos

December 2015

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healthbriefs

Superfruit Antioxidants Found in Chilean Maqui Berry

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Happy Holidays

esearch from the University of Arizona’s Health Sciences Center has confirmed that the South American superfruit maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) can aid the cardiovascular system and reduce blood sugar. Clinical trials found a group of antioxidants, called delphinidins, significantly reduced levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, which is linked to atherosclerosis and other heart diseases.

The clinical research found that the delphinidins contained in the maqui berry, known as the richest natural source of the antioxidant, aid the health of blood vessels by increasing nitric oxide and decreasing platelets linked with thrombosis, the clogging of arteries that can cause strokes. The researchers also found that the superfruit may help counteract skin aging from ultraviolet radiation-B (UVB) exposure.

Meditation Linked to Telomere Integrity in Cancer Patients

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ADOPT YOUR NEW FURRY FRIEND

aintaining telomere length has been directly linked to longer lifespan in a number of studies. A telomere is the structure at the end of a chromosome that protects it from deteriorating or fusing with other chromosomes. Its length is being used to measure the potential success of integrative therapy for recovering cancer patients; now University of Calgary research has found that mindfulness meditation helps.

The researchers tested 88 breast cancer survivors with a previous diagnosis of stage-one to stage-three breast cancer. The patients’ telomere lengths were tested after either group-support therapy or mindfulness meditation training that included gentle hatha yoga exercises. Results showed that while the control group’s telomere lengths decreased over time, both the mindfulness group and the support therapy group were on average able to maintain their telomere length throughout the testing period.

Call: 941.955.4131 or visit www.hssc.org

for more information on adoption.

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Send Your Nominations for Nattie Awards Now

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housands of ballots are cast each year by readers for their favorite companies, practitioners and places of interest in the Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte County area. The top five nominated companies in each category of natural living are honored by recognition in Natural Awakenings. Please vote for your choice online at NASRQ.com.

The Natties are highly valued. They represent what you, our readers, respect, and expect, in service, products and comfort care. This is your opportunity to show your appreciation for their hard work.

Categories are listed below. Please enter your favorites and just click your mouse for a vote or votes of your choice. We are proud to bestow a Nattie on the companies, large and small, that deserve recognition. Results will be posted in the January issue.

1. Favorite Business of the year 2. Favorite Eco-friendly Business of the year 3. Favorite Pet Friendly Business of the year 4. Favorite Holistic M.D. 5. Favorite Acupuncture/TCM Practitioner 6. Favorite Chiropractic Physician 7. Favorite Natural Dentist 8. Favorite Natural Healing Center 9. Favorite Natural Womens’s Health Specialist

10. Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner 11. Preferred School for Holistic Medicine 12. Favorite Energy healer 13. Favorite Holistic Practitioner of the year 14. Favorite Spiritual center 15. Favorite Yoga studio/sanctuary 16. Favorite weightloss program/Center 17. Favorite yoga instructor 18. Favorite Eco-friendly salon/Spa 19. Favorite Nutritionist

20. Favorite place to shop for Natural Foods 21. Favorite farmers’ market 22. Favorite place to buy Nutritional supplements 23. Favorite enlightened Book and Gift store 24. Favorite Eco-friendly cleaning service 25. Favorite Skin Care professional 26. Favorite holistic veterinarian 27. Favorite animal hospital 28. Favorite natural pet food store

natural awakenings

December 2015

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

Fungus Among Us

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)-based pesticide in 2006. An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.” This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out.

The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/FungusPesticidePatent.

Sentient Beings

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings. Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.” The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-to-medium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

Find a link to the legislation at Tinyurl.com/NewZealandSentienceBill.

Uncommon Devotion Religion in America Shows Resilience On any given Sabbath, four of 10 Americans travel to a place of worship, a number that hasn’t fluctuated dramatically in the past half-century. Gallup polls report that more than 81 percent say they identify with a specific religion or denomination; 78 percent say it’s an important part of their lives; and 57 percent believe that religion is able to solve today’s problems.

While recent attendance may be off, Americans are no less likely to attend services today than they were in the 1940s and early ’50s, just prior to the ultra-religious following decade. The reason, says Gallup’s Frank Newport, is that U.S. religious worship is cyclical.

Today’s practicing religious communities “tend to consist of the seriously committed, not just those swept along by obligation,” reports Christian Smith, director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame and coprincipal investigator of the National Study of Youth and Religion.

Those that worship regularly are more likely to be older, female and Southern; they also are better educated and stronger financially than those that don’t, according to Newport. At the same time, Mitchell Marcus, a University of Pennsylvania professor, characterizes his Ph.D. students as religiously curious, often devout and eager to talk about their beliefs.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

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Hear Ye!

Dutch Court Upholds Climate Action as a Human Right Perhaps establishing a new global precedent for a state’s obligation to its citizens in the face of a growing climate crisis, a Dutch court has ruled that the government has a legal duty to reduce carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2020. The decision came in response to a 2013 lawsuit launched by the Amsterdam-based environmental nonprofit Urgenda Foundation and 600 Dutch citizens that argued the government was violating international human rights law by failing to take sufficient measures to combat rising greenhouse gas emissions.

A statement from the court reads, “The state must do more to avert the imminent danger caused by climate change, also in view of its duty to provide care to protect and improve the living environment.”

In the United States, the youth-led movement Our Children’s Trust (OurChildrens Trust.org) is suing state governments and what they dub “the ruling generation” as accountable for climate inaction. As 350.org co-founder and Communications Director Jamie Henn noted after the ruling, “If the Netherlands sets a precedent, it’s a whole new ball game.” Other countries are weighing the situation, as well.

Source: BBC

Interactive Government

White House Responds to Online Petitions President Obama has made it a priority to open a direct channel for people to be heard via online petitions. Jason Goldman, chief digital officer at the White House, says that his staff has responded to dozens of requests to take action on a variety of issues in recent months. “We want to make sure those responses aren’t the final page, but rather the start of an ongoing conversation,” he says.

Change.org has chosen to integrate with the We the People platform, meaning the future signatures of its 100 million users will count toward the threshold of 100,000 for getting an official response from the administration.

“The process of hearing from us about your petition is going to look a little different,” says Goldman. “We’ve assembled a team of people responsible for taking your questions and requests and bringing them to the right people, whether within the White House or in an agency within the administration that may be in a position to say something about your request.”

Visit Petitions.WhiteHouse.gov.

Wealth is the ability to fully experience life. ~Henry David Thoreau natural awakenings

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Healing the Soul from Past Life Trauma

by Elissa Bentsen

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hat happens when souls are traumatized by emotional, physical or spiritual pain in current or past lives? Do souls react to the effects of such events? How do you heal a broken soul?

There are consequences to emotional, physical and spiritual traumas that occur in current life; however, past lives leave scars as well. Past life pain also backwashes into current life, causing a repeat performance of negative energy. Author, medium and international speaker Denise Linn says that 85% of soul fracture occurs from past lives, while only 15% occurs as a result of current life events.

When a soul experiences extreme fear, pain, abuse, stress or a series of smaller events that escalate, the reaction is instinctual. Soul splinters flee the body and return to the shelter of spirit realm. These little pieces, known as soul fragments, need must be returned in order for individuals to

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feel fully integrated and healthy in the mind, body and spirit.

Retrieving soul fragments produces a sense of healing or wholeness, returning the body to a mended state which can be experienced as physical, emotional or spiritual healing. The most compelling portion of soul healing is the correlation to current life which is revealed in the healing process. There are always correlations because those missing pieces continue to require attention—reincarnation after reincarnation until they are fully rebalanced.

Imagine for a moment that, during a past life, a soul was enslaved, humiliated and held back from experiencing the joy of life in body. Fragments then left due to continual abuse. Then, in current life, that same soul experiences similar domination from another person and still feels a lack of freedom. Perhaps, the controller is a mother who overly criticizes an adult child or an

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employer who emotionally abuses an employee. The past life scenario is still playing out and causing discord. When soul trauma healing is performed, the soul in a current body is made strong enough to cut the ties that bind it to domination.

The soul’s common reaction to traumatic events is creating disassociation or separation from the experience which results in giving up pieces of light, joy, power, consciousness, love, satisfaction, clarity and other positive feelings associated with the encounter. A pattern gradually develops, creating greater separation of the soul—a divide that continues into the present and perpetuates into future lives.

These soul parts that left don’t come back by themselves, however. It is the work of a healer to return those missing pieces to the body, restoring equilibrium. During soul retrieval work, the healer receives channeled visions of a person’s past life, during which these fragments left, and details of the events surrounding this trauma. Through the guidance of spirit, information is channeled, correlating to one’s current life. Discordant energy is removed and returned to spirit for recycling, then missing soul fragments are called back into the body.

The results vary from person to person. Some say they feel a new sense of lightness within their beings.

Some feel acute mental clarity, while others say they feel more peaceful and calm. The marvel of soul healing is that it continues long after the procedure is completed. Weeks, even months later, individuals feel the remarkable effects of returned soul energy.

If you are experiencing reoccurring, unresolved issues,—whether emotional, physical or spiritual—consider Soul Trauma Healing. It’s never too late to become the individual you were meant to be.

Elissa Bentsen is a certified Soul Trauma Healer, hypnotist spiritual counselor, author and workshop leader. She holds a degree in Social Work and is the recipient of the 2014 Nattie award for “Best Energy Healer.” She specializes in mediumship, past life/life between life regression and Soul Trauma Healing.

ecotip Shipping News

Early Bird Gift Shipping Saves Stress, Money and Resources Last-minute online shopping can be costly in both dollars and pollution. Choosing next-day delivery puts purchased products on a plane that burns far more carbon-producing fossil fuel than ground transportation. But there’s a better way, and how we package gifts for shipping counts.

Order and ship early. Building in more lead time affords less costly shipping options. Eco-wise, if the shipper has some freedom in scheduling deliveries, it can choose to hold up a delivery truck until it’s full, rather than sending one out half-empty. Also, if a package doesn’t have to reach its destination by a particular day or time, the company can choose the most efficient local delivery routing.

A recent University of Washington study found that a community using grocery delivery services slashed carbon emissions when compared to individuals driving to the supermarket. Plus, they achieved their biggest gains—80 to

90 percent lower emissions—when they could plan deliveries around customer locations, rather than precise delivery windows, thus minimizing driving distance and time on the road.

Seek out available boxes. Many grocery and beverage stores don’t immediately break down incoming cardboard shipping boxes. Ask a store attendant if they have any available. Reusing saved paper bags from checkout (for those that don’t bring reusable bags) can serve to cushion gift-wrapped boxes. GreenAmerica.org suggests repurposing gentlyused wrapping paper or old fabrics, newspapers, magazines or calendars for a creative look. Return any foam peanuts in received packages to a pack-n-ship shop for reuse.

Know the options. While U.S. Postal Service (usps.com) Priority Mail offers flat rates to any state regardless of weight (up to 70 pounds), package tracking and other year-round features, the cost of using other carriers varies by destination zip code, package size and weight. Verify price and timing options, making sure packages arrive in good time to be under the Christmas tree before December 25.

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AWAKENING TO SPIRIT Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

By its intimate connection with divine love, Spirit infuses human experience with qualities of amazing grace—unexpected clarity, vision, wisdom, peace, compassion, emotional release, inspirational epiphanies, deep understanding and comprehensive healing of mind, body and soul.

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hile society abounds with scientific research, products and practices that promise to enhance our mind or body and the mind-body connection, without Spirit in the mix, neither rises to its full potential. A heart open to a higher power exponentially multiplies the effects of this crucial connection.

“Just as a candle spreads light in a darkened room, people who are living in-Spirit give off a higher energy that can bring light to our hearts and minds.

In other words, we can be inspired just by being in their presence,” according to renowned bestselling author Wayne Dyer, Ph.D.

Experiential, non-verbal and lifechanging encounters with the unbounded power and presence of Spirit in prayer and meditation are difficult to analyze in the same way as mind-body

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science. However, Dyer points to the works and outcomes of Spirit as visible evidence of how it lifts us up.

We see individuals with rapturous hearts sending out signals that they love the world and everyone in it. Those that live in Spirit tend to see the world as a friendly place, are at peace with themselves, appear to be open and accepting rather than judgmental and harsh, and often report being healed of all sorts of diseases, relationship challenges, career fluctuations and questions of purpose and direction. They attest to how Spirit shines a triumphant light in the midst of dark nights of the soul, redefining the essence of life itself and declaring us worthy in our innermost reaches.

Personal Healing

When a 19-year-old woman entered basic military training at Lackland Air

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Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas, and was undergoing initial medical and psychological screening, she was identified as having body and mind issues that would require her to be separated from the service. These problems included organ failures and spinal misalignment, as well as severe consequences of an emotionally abusive upbringing. It was determined that she could not handle the physical and mental demands of military life. Because the policy was to not treat such problems if identified upon entering the service, authorities allowed her to remain in training until her separation from the Air Force could be processed.

The woman was impressed and also distressed by the finality of the verdict and assessment tools used by mind and body experts among the medical staff. In talking with a chaplain on the base, she came to understand that she could choose to appeal her case to another jurisdiction, a “higher” court of Spirit. Focusing on the voice of divine love, she grew to see Spirit as more than a higher power. She saw Spirit as a higher authority. She surrendered to divine love’s authority as ultimate law, supremely qualified to reorder her whole being. She trusted that aligning with spiritual power could change her view of her identity and the seemingly inescapable consequences of genetics, environment and human history denying her desire to serve her country in this way.

Listening to a higher witness testifying on her behalf and identifying her authentic being as the magnificent expression of the magnificent Creator, she felt encouraged to the point that her mind and body stopped arresting her progress and became more effective servants, responding with greater freedom and joy. One limitation after another fell away, and the military and medical authorities seemed pleased with her progress as she neared completion of training. Finally, performing a mile-and-a-half run within a required time remained the only obstacle to graduation, and she was still 45 seconds too slow.

This helpful passage from the Hebrew prophet Isaiah became central to her prayer and meditation as she approached her last running attempt:

Young people will get tired;

strapping young men will stumble

and fall.

But those who trust in the Eternal One will regain their strength.

They will soar on wings as eagles.

They will run—never winded, never weary.

They will walk—never tired,

never faint. ~Isaiah 40: 30-31 (The Voice)

She passed her final attempt with 18 seconds to spare, running on eagles’ wings.

So, how can we all discern such a divine witness to our original authentic being amidst loud testimony of all the voices and labels shouting in our head and body, including those imposed by others?

Prayer and Meditation

There are two approaches to listening to the voice within, whether we name it God, higher power, Spirit, grace, Eternal One, or divine love or Love.

Complementary, rather than mutually exclusive, both approaches require a capacity, gained through patient practice, of quieting the inner and outer chatter and learning to hear that which calls us to be more than what human experience suggests is possible. It’s who we are in the eyes of grace.

Sanford C. Wilder, of Grafton, Illinois, author of Listening to Grace, offers personal growth and development pro-

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo.

As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential. grams through EducareUnlearning.com that encourage prayer and meditation that emphasize listening. He practices both approaches and makes distinctions between them.

“When I pray, I am directing my thoughts toward God, listening and often affirming what I know to be divinely true. I am yearning to surrender my will and affections in conscious connection

with the divine such that I or another receives a blessing,” shares Wilder. In such prayerful listening, he hopes to gain something, often a new insight and corresponding manifestation.

“When I meditate, my intention is to sacrifice every thought, concept, image and feeling to God, the only consciousness. I trust that listening and observing with nonattachment helps me release conscious and unconscious conditioned thought patterns permeated by a human sense of self.” Through meditative listening, he hopes to release everything rather than receive anything, accepting that everyone is equipped and able to be open to, witness and experience nonstop blessings.

Helen Mathis has been an educator in the Philippines and Swaziland as well as the U.S., including an instructor of religion at Principia College, near St. Louis; she is now part of a Centering Prayer Circle in Stockton, California.

She explains that centering prayer may be seen as a hybrid that embraces both prayer and meditation, nourishing what’s beneath the preoccupied self to awaken a deeper and vastly more authentic self.

Mathis appreciates what Cynthia Bourgeault explores in her book Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, that, “This confusion between small self and the larger Self… [the] ‘True Self,’ ‘Essential Self’ or ‘Real I’—is the core illusion of the human condition, and penetrating this illusion is what

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Through conscious listening we discover that our true nature—as witnessed by Spirit—though sometimes obscured from view, is never altered from its original beauty and wholeness. ~Helen Mathis awakening is all about.”

Like Bourgeault, Mathis believes that it’s not about the absence of thoughts so much as detaching from our thoughts, trusting that we can let go and be safe, consent to surrender human will and forgo personal agendas. Only then can spiritual sense come into play.

“The goal is to awaken to, open to and get in touch with our innermost being and Spirit,” Mathis affirms.

“Clearly, centering prayer assumes we each have a spiritual awareness of the divine within us that acts, as Bourgeault puts it, as ‘a kind of interior compass whose magnetic north is always fixed on God.’”

Core Shift

We often approach a Spirit dimension with the attitude of “what it can do for me.” The higher practice that mystics and other deep thinkers of various faith traditions ultimately arrive at instead centers on transforming our whole self to align with Spirit’s purpose for us, which changes everything.

Reverend Dr. Michael Beckwith, founder of the New Thought Agape Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, and a spiritual mentor to Oprah Winfrey, believes, “The relationship we have with the infinite is more about how we are to serve it than it is to serve us.”

Beckwith describes three primary stages of realizing the power and purpose of divine Spirit expressed as our spirit. The first is that of a victim (feeling powerless, unable to effect change). The second is when an individual learns the existence of universal law that responds to our thinking, emotions and attitude; we learn how 36

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to use it to stabilize life structures and demonstrate health and well-being.

“Ultimately, in stage three, we become a vehicle of life in service to life.

Instead of using the law, the law uses us. Life fulfills its own nature through us,” he says. “All of life is conspiring for our freedom, liberation, wholeness and health.”

He urges us not to stop and stagnate at stage two, using divine laws only to manifest personal conveniences, stuff and even people for our use; this can hijack views of abundance into materialism and consumerism. He quips, “We are not here to go shopping.”

Dwelling in Spirit

Grace and Spirit work in us, through us and between us, yet we can’t simply sum-

mon them up or outline their outcomes.

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo. As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

Life, defined by Spirit, gives fresh strength and impetus to mind and body. All three are vital elements of the dance of life.

Richard Davenport is a spiritual life educator (HigherGroundForLife.com) and the founding executive director of an inclusive nationwide Bible and spiritual life community (BibleAndSpiritualLife. org). Now based in St. Louis, MO, he is a retired Air Force chaplain, having served at Lackland and other U.S. Air Force bases on three continents.

FIVE WAYS TO PRAY FROM THE HEART

by Richard Davenport

P

rayer from a heart willing to surrender, change, learn, grow and bless others works to keep us centered on pure motives like wellness, wholeheartedness and compassion. Such prayer can help us progress spiritually.

These five forms of prayer, found in the Bible, have a universal application to any spiritual practice. Although differing in their approach, all share the purpose of creating a fuller mindfulness of our true identity and relationship to the divine, while enhancing our capacity to bless all creation. If we are not feeling the desired breakthroughs using one form, perhaps the one most familiar or comfortable to us, we might do well to explore others.

Praise – a posture of adoration, honoring and surrender to a power, vision, and authority greater than our own.

Thanksgiving – or better yet, for its consistency and permeating of our whole self, thanks-living. The garden of our spirit is enriched by embracing a gratitude attitude in all we do.

Petition – a relational posture that opens our heart as we learn to ask for help, to seek perspective beyond a limited self, beyond a smaller, egodriven orientation.

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Intercession – praying for others; blessing, honoring and cherishing them as God sees them. When we feel burdened and blocked by our own trials, expressing empathy and compassion for others can unlock our heart and mind. We can lovingly witness the true nature of those that are seemingly tangled in forces blocking or opposing their higher good.

Affirmation – release and rest in divine authority, acknowledging the uni-verse as literally one song reflecting the singular harmony that Spirit knows and is unfolding in every moment to meet our need in forms we can see and feel right now.

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healingways

HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

A

whiff of sweetness can communicate a personal signature of tranquility, alertness or romance, or it can cause a bout of miserable sneezing, wheezing or nausea for those in the vicinity and even the unwitting wearer.

Commercial Chemicals

“When you see ‘fragrance’ on a personal care product label, read it as ‘hidden chemicals,’” warns the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit watchdog Environmental Working Group (EWG). “A major loophole in the [U.S.] Food and Drug Administration’s federal law lets manufacturers of products like shampoo, lotion and body wash include nearly any ingredient under the term fragrance without actually listing the chemical.” Companies that manufacture personal care products are required by law to list the ingredients they use, but fragrances and trade-secret formulas are exempt.

What’s known as a dirty little secret in the fragrance industry is the unlabeled presence of toxic chemicals not only in perfumes, but in any personal care product that includes a scent. Lab tests commissioned by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and analyzed by the EWG confirm the presence of parabens 38

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that interfere with hormone production, cancer-causing phthalates, and synthetic musks that have been linked to hormone disruption, among many other ills.

Naturally Safe Scents

“Opting for natural scents from organic essential oils not only offers a toxinfree alternative, the oils’ aromatherapy benefits have time-proven therapeutic value,” suggests Dorene Petersen, president and founder of the American

College of Healthcare Sciences, in Portland, Oregon.

Recent research from the Pontificia Universidade Catolica, in Brazil, confirms that lavender oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pain-relieving properties similar to those of a mild-dose narcotic. Plus, it smells heavenly, says botanical perfumer Roxana Villa, of Woodland Hills, a California-based spokesperson for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

“Considering the part of the plant used will give you an idea of its therapeutic value,” says Villa. “A root base will be good for grounding. Since bark is like skin, oils such as birch will benefit skin and muscles. Oils from flowers are excellent for anything related to the head and mind.”

Oregano and cinnamon oils have powerful antifungal properties, even against Candida-type fungi resistant to prescription drugs, according to Brazilian research from Universidade Federal. A groundbreaking study from the Slovak University of Technology, in Slovakia, even suggests that rosemary oil can kill cancer cells.

These are all scents that can be the foundations of do-it-yourself perfumes.

Customized Blends

“It’s fun to experiment with organic essential oils and create that unique

The 1-2-3s of Blending Oils Base Notes Middle Notes Top Notes sandalwood lavender orange jasmine bergamot lemon myrrh geranium grapefruit vetiver rosemary eucalyptus patchouli tea tree lime cedarwood clary sage peppermint A general ratio of 50 percent base note oils to 30 percent middle notes and 20 percent top notes is recommended.

Source: courtesy of AuraCacia.com

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blend that becomes a personal signature,” says Charlynn Avery, an aromatherapist with Aura Cacia, in Norway, Iowa. She explains that essential oils have three basic “notes” and blending them correctly will result in a fragrance suited to last throughout the day.

“The base note is heavier and lasts the longest. Patchouli, vetiver, sandal-

GIFT BLEND FOR MEN Western cultures value “manly” Earth scents like sandalwood and cedarwood, while in other cultures, flowery scents are acceptable for men.

An appealing woodsy blend for an American male blends cedarwood, clary sage and lime.

wood, cedarwood and jasmine hang around longer in the atmosphere and on the wearer,” she explains. Blending the base with a slightly lighter middle note like lavender, rosemary or clary sage and a light and short-lasting top note like orange, lime or peppermint will create a complex and pleasing blend.

“That’s the beauty of the art of it,” says Avery. “You can create synergistic blends that harmonize and complement the attributes of each to such an extent that you may not be able to detect the scents of the individual oils.”

There are no hard and fast rules, but our experts offer a few guidelines for creating our own unique blends that will be well-received as holiday gifts.

Use a base of oil like jojoba or sweet almond to create a perfumed oil.

Note that oils undiluted by a carrier can burn the skin.

For oil-based blends, use a ratio of 50 drops of bottom note oil, 30 drops of a middle note and 20 drops of a top note in two ounces of carrier oil.

Another option is to use an alcohol base of either isopropyl rubbing alcohol or 85-proof vodka to make a spray perfume; the alcohol will evaporate quickly.

Alcohol-based blends generally last longer, especially with fragile citrus oils.

A usual ratio is 10 to 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of alcoholbased carrier.

Oil-based blends are ready to use almost immediately. Alcohol-based blends should age a week or two at

least and will become more strongly scented in time.

Store fragrances in bottles in a dark, cool place. Bottles with tiny rollon caps are commercially available.

“It’s very much trial and error to arrive at a preferred scent, so be creative and keep careful notes of experiments and improve on them as you gain experience,” counsels Avery. “If you crinkle your nose at patchouli, you probably won’t like an oil blend with it, either.

Choose scents you like.”

Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books including Food Is Medicine. Connect at Kathleen Barnes.com.

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Photo by Stephen Blancett

consciouseating

SWEETLY VEGAN No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

“

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isions of sugar plums” have been part of holiday mindsets since the advent of Clement Moore’s classic 19th-century poem commonly known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

We love to give and receive special treats and our tastes are evolving. Instead of yesteryear’s sugary bonbons loaded with calories that we’ve come to regret, today’s preferred confections focus more on naturally sweet dried fruits, bestquality chocolate, healthful coconut and crunchy nuts. Vegan, gluten-free delicacies from chefs and culinary experts the world over help us celebrate the season in a deliciously healthy way, including those we highlight this month.

“Christmas isn’t Christmas without a traditional pudding,” says Chef Teresa Cutter, author of Purely Delicious. Cutter is founder and director of The Healthy Chef company, in Sydney, Australia, which creates functional foods for taste and optimal health. Her no-bake desserts such as miniature Christmas puddings and carrot cake take only minutes to make.

Emily Holmes, a Queensland, Australia, wellness coach who blogs at Conscious-Foodie.com, says her favorite is Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes. She serves them with a pot of peppermint tea.

Houston-based Joshua Weissman is the author of The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook and blogs at SlimPalate. com. He shares his philosophy on holiday treats: “My first thought is that I don’t want to feel guilty after eating it.

My second is that I still want it to taste and look good.” His Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles fit the festive bill.

In New York City, noted vegan cookbook author and Pastry Chef Fran Costigan is an expert in all things chocolate, including her Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles. “When you make something really delicious with real ingredients, your mouth knows it, your brain knows it, your body knows it. You feel satisfied,” she says.

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

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

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No-Bake Festive Vegan Desserts Spoon a little white chocolate over the tops of the puddings if desired and garnish with goji berries, fresh cherries or another fanciful topper.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve puddings with chilled mango coconut custard.

Teresa Cutter’s Healthy Christmas Puddings Yields: 6 to 8 small puddings

Spoon the mixture into a large bowl.

Add the orange juice, and then mix again. Pudding mix should come together when lightly hand-squeezed.

Divide into 6 small puddings. Line the base of 6 small decorative molds with plastic wrap and firmly press the puddings into them.

Once firmly packed in the mold, invert the pudding and remove the plastic wrap.

Melt white chocolate in a small bowl set over a simmering pot of water.

Add grated raw carrot and vanilla and then process again until combined. The mix should now form a nice dough.

Spoon into a bowl. Add and kneed oats through the raw carrot cake mixture.

Press cake firmly into a 6-inch round baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Mango Coconut Custard 1 mango, chopped ½ cup coconut milk Juice from ½ orange Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve chilled with the puddings.

8 oz fresh pitted dates—approximately 10 to 15 dates, depending on their size Zest from 1 orange 9 oz dried apricots, chopped 1½ cups almond meal/ground almonds 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground ginger 1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice 3 oz white chocolate, melted, for decoration (optional) Combine dates, orange zest, apricots, vanilla, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a food processor.

Process until mixture is combined and looks like fine crumbs.

Combine walnuts, flaxseed, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange zest and sea salt into a food processor and run it until mixed and finely chopped. Add dates and apricots. Process again until thoroughly mixed.

Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing at least 2 hours for the cake to rest.

It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

Enjoy as is or garnish with macadamia nut cream, a drizzle of honey and walnuts.

Note: Other raw nuts can substitute for walnuts—try pecans, almonds or macadamia nuts.

Macadamia Nut Cream Combine 1 cup of raw cashew nuts or macadamia nuts with ½ cup of orange juice or coconut water and a little vanilla. Blend in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix until smooth and creamy.

Teresa Cutter’s No-Bake Carrot Cake Yields: 16 servings 2½ cups (9½ oz) shelled walnuts 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed or whole chia seeds ½ cup (2 oz) rolled oats (or gluten-free almond meal) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp sea salt 1 cup (6½ oz) of 12 large fresh dates, pitted ½ cup (3 oz) dried chopped apricots or pineapple (sulfur-free) 2 large raw carrots, grated Zest from 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

Emily Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes Yields: 2 dozen mini-cupcakes Cake 1 cup raw, shelled, skinned nuts (such as almonds) 1 /3 cup cacao powder 4 fresh dates, pitted Filling 2 cup shredded coconut 1 cup dried cherries 6 fresh dates, pitted ¼ cup coconut cream ¼ tsp vanilla powder Pinch of sea salt

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Filling ¼ cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling) ¼ cup almond butter ¼ cup vegan cream cheese ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼-½ tsp nutmeg ½ tsp fresh grated ginger 1 Tbsp coconut flour 2 packets stevia (like Sweetleaf packets)

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Topping 3½ oz melted dark chocolate Process nuts and cacao powder in a food processor until the nuts are finely ground and the mixture is fully combined. Slowly add the dates until the mixture sticks together.

Press the mixture into the bottom parts of a 24-cup mini muffin pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Process filling ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Spoon the filling onto the cupcake base in the muffin cups and then top with melted dark chocolate.

Place into the refrigerator to set, where it also stores well until served.

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Chill by refrigerating the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes or freezing it for 2 to 5 minutes.

Roll chilled filling mixture into mediumto-small-sized balls a little less than an inch in diameter and place them on a small baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Heat a double boiler or small pot that fits into a medium pot of gently boiling water over medium-to-low heat.

plus: holiday themes

Joshua Weissman’s Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

In a medium-sized bowl, combine everything for the filling, including pumpkin purée, almond butter, cream cheese, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, coconut flour and stevia. Mix thoroughly until smoothly incorporated and no cream cheese chunks are left.

Place balls back into the refrigerator for 10 minutes or the freezer for 5 minutes so the balls harden enough to allow dipping.

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Coating (vanilla bean white chocolate) 2 oz food grade (not for skin care) cacao butter broken up into small pieces for melting ¼-½ vanilla bean pod, cut in half lengthwise to scrape out the interior, or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 20 drops stevia (like Sweetleaf Steviaclear drops)

Scrape out the vanilla bean pod, conserving vanilla beans for adding once the cacao butter is melted.

Yields: About 12 to 16 (1½-inch) truffles

Place cacao butter in the top of a double boiler and melt and add stevia.

Then add vanilla beans and mix well.

Warm winter spices mix with fragrant pumpkin and almond butter to make seasonal truffles hand dipped in fresh vanilla bean-infused white chocolate.

Turn the heat to low to keep warm and melted. Pull out the hardened filling shaped into balls and one at a time drop them into the white chocolate

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mixture and roll them around until they’re fully covered with mixture using fingers or a small spoon.

Spoon into a small shallow container and refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours until the ganache is firm. The ganache can be covered and refrigerated at this point for up to 1 week.

Carefully spoon out each truffle using a spoon, gently tapping the spoon on the inside of the saucepan to slough off excess cacao butter that may pool on it.

Take special care not to drop the truffle.

Shape Truffle Centers Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. Use one spoon to scoop out 1-inch pieces of ganache and another to push it off the spoon into the container. When half the ganache has been used, roll into logs about 1-inch long, washing and drying hands as needed. (If at any time the ganache becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until cold before proceeding.)

Gently place each treat back onto the tray. Repeat the whole process until all the coated balls are on the tray.

Photo by Steve Legato

Let them cool at room temperature and serve immediately or place them in the refrigerator to harden and serve later. Chilled, truffles will keep for 3 to 5 days.

Fran Costigan’s Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles Yields: 20 to 24 (1-inch) truffles This creamy chocolate truffle has a slightly chewy texture with a coating for color and crunch. Raw tahini is sweeter than when its roasted and either kind is good.

Truffle Ganache 4 oz dark fair trade chocolate (70 to 72 percent), finely chopped Finely minced zest of half a medium orange 3 Tbsp orange juice ¼ cup agave syrup 1 Tbsp raw or roasted tahini, stirred 1½ Tbsp white sesame seeds, lightly toasted 1½ Tbsp black sesame seeds, lightly toasted

Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until it’s shiny and smooth. Remove from heat and wait about 30 seconds until it’s no longer steaming and then pour it over the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with a plate. Wait 1 minute and then stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Note: The ganache will not be perfectly smooth.

Cool to room temperature, stirring a few times using a silicone spatula.

Cover and refrigerate the truffle centers 15 to 25 minutes to set, before final shaping and finishing with the sesame seed coating.

Truffle Coating Mix the sesame seeds in a small bowl.

Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons on the bottom of a shallow container.

Put a few logs at a time into the bowl of sesame seeds and roll until lightly coated. Pinch the ends to form the oval quenelle (football) shape.

Place the finished truffles in the refrigerator to set for 35 to 45 minutes.

Adapted from Vegan Chocolate, by Fran Costigan, used with permission.

Place the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl.

Mix the orange zest and juice and agave in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the tahini, whisking vigorously. The mixture will thicken immediately. Don’t be concerned if it looks broken or curdled; it’ll smooth out with whisking. natural awakenings

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wisewords

for changes during the active course of daily life and query: How am I speaking to myself or to others? Am I more present? Am I more at ease in letting go?

It’s important to look for these subtle changes rather than to set unrealistic expectations for ourselves such as being mindful all day.

Sharon Salzberg on Mindfulness Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

Do you have other enabling practices for people new to the state of living mindfully?

by April Thompson

N

How do you define mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the quality of awareness.

When we are mindful, our perception of the present moment isn’t so distorted by bias, adding our own storyline to

reality and pushing away what’s happening.

photo by Fabio Fiippi

ew York City-born Sharon Salzberg experienced a childhood full of loss and upheaval, losing her parents and living in five different household configurations. In college, she discovered the power of meditation to transform suffering and cope with life’s neverending changes.

Born into a Jewish family, Salzberg first encountered Buddhism in 1969 in an Asian philosophy class, inspiring her to undertake an independent study program in India, where she was initiated into the practice via an intense 10-day retreat. “It was very difficult and painful. I sometimes doubted that I’d succeed, yet I never doubted that there was truth there,” she says.

Upon her return home, Salzburg dedicated herself to the path of vipassana- (insight) meditation, becoming a renowned teacher and co-founding the Insight Meditation Society, in Barre, Massachusetts. Today she teaches and speaks to diverse audiences worldwide about the power of mindfulness. Salzberg has authored nine books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, Real Happiness at Work and Lovingkindness.

Is it possible to be mindful without having an established meditation practice?

Yes, theoretically, but I suspect it’s hard. I honor my own meditation practice for making mindfulness highly accessible for me. It doesn’t take many hours of prep work and is open to everyone. It’s really a practice, like strength training—you have to exercise the mindfulness muscle to reap the benefits.

What’s the best way to arrange time for meditation, and what can motivate us to practice regularly?

Having a sense of structure has helped me the most. I believe strongly in the value of a daily practice, however simple or short. We can ritualize certain practices to help remember to pause and be mindful. For example, every time the phone rings, let it ring three times and use that as a trigger to breathe. When you’ve finished writing an email, take a few conscious moments before sending it. There are lots of ways to cut through the momentum of the busyness and craziness of our lives to return to mindfulness.

Make a commitment to practice for a certain period of daily time for a month or two, and then reassess. Look

Movement meditation is a good place to start; if you’re walking somewhere, try to be more present and feel your feet against the ground. Also, just focus on one thing at a time; instead of multitasking, just drink the cup of tea.

We can also use breath to focus concentration. The breath is a tremendous tool, it’s always with us. If you’re in a contentious meeting and tempers flare, you don’t have to pull out a meditation cushion and sit in a funny position; you can work with your breath right where you are.

How can meditation help to ease suffering?

Sometimes, we think we can ease suffering by only having pleasant feelings and beautiful thoughts. Rather, we can ease suffering by changing the way we relate to our thoughts and feelings. If something unpleasant is happening, most of us flip into an internal monologue about how, “Bad things always happen to me,” or “This is my fault,” or “I shouldn’t feel this.” We compound our suffering by adding judgment and by pushing away discomfort. Instead, we can learn to observe our reactions and release them.

We also tend not to feel pleasure fully or think that something else or more should be happening instead of simply enjoying the moment. We wait for some sense of intensity in order to feel alive, rather than experiencing the ordinary to the utmost. Meditation trains us to be present with pleasant, unpleasant and neutral experiences and stay connected, no matter what’s going on.

Reach freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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December 2015

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fitbody *Voted Best Yoga Studio in Sarasota* 2010 1st Place Natty: Yoga, Zen & Spiritual Center

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Airplane Yoga Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

by Cynthia Bowman

T

he majority of the symptoms we can experience during flying—stiffness, poor circulation and swollen feet—are due to lack of movement rather than the altitude or pressurized cabin air. Knowing this can make healthy flying easier.

Drinking lots of water and moving about and stretching every two to three hours on long flights is key; trips to the bathroom naturally help fulfill this. We also can keep blood from collecting in our lower extremities by finding a way to elevate our legs and feet periodically. Wiggle all 10 toes, shift positions and go for these six discreet airplane yoga stretches.

Etiquette tip: Do the first two stretches at the back of the plane with adequate space and a wall to lean on. Don’t do these in the aisle; hanging on to someone’s seat back rocks it and can be annoying.

A quad stretch involves the shoulders, upper legs, calves and ankles, while elevating each foot and getting the blood moving. Hang on to a wall, grab an ankle and bring the heel as close to the butt as possible.

Then rotate the ankle in a circular motion. Do this as long as it feels worth doing, and then switch arms and legs.

A calf stretch is a simple way to target calf and hamstring muscles, as well as ankles. Stand facing a wall, placing both hands Quad Stretch at shoulder height on the wall for

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Calf Stretch

Upper Body Stretch

Neck Stretch

Twisting the Torso

balance, elbows bent. Take one foot forward and rest it on its heel, with toes pointing up and resting on the wall. Lean forward to the point of feeling a good stretch in the calf.

Stretch 30 seconds per foot, gradually going deeper into the pose after a few breaths.

Etiquette tip: The next four stretches can be done in an airplane seat or in the back of the plane.

The upper body stretch targets wrists, hands, arms, shoulders, back and the upper body in general. Sit upright with feet firmly planted on the floor. Lift arms up and interlace fingers before turning palms to face the ceiling. Relax the shoulders and neck. The arms shouldn’t be covering the ears and can be adjusted by moving them a few inches forward or back.

Tall individuals may need to bend their elbows, which still allows for stretching of the upper body.

Neck stretches release tension and stiffness by tilting the head from side-to-side. Don’t make circular motions, as they can cause neck and spine compression. If holding the head to assist a deeper stretch, be considerate of neighbors by pointing the raised elbow forward to cradle the neck instead of resting it on a seatmate.

Twisting the torso benefits both the spine and back muscles.

Yogis believe that twisting motions also massage internal organs.

While twisting, hang on to the armrest with both hands and sit as upright as possible, with legs together and feet firmly planted.

Don’t bounce into the pose or shift or lift buttocks off the seat, but make slow, fluid movements.

Bending forward while seated gives the back, neck and legs a good, deep stretch.

All of these movements work well while we’re in the air and are equally useful on road trips, in the office or whenever we need a break.

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Ozone has been approved by USDA and FDA for safe drinking water. Over 5 billion gallons of water are used per day in major cities and by bottled water companies, so make sure your family’s water consumption is clean and pure.

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Cynthia Bowman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, CA, who specializes in travel, culture and lifestyle topics. Visit JoyJournist.com. natural awakenings

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photo courtesy of View Dynamic Glass

greenliving

Green Congregations Faith Groups Join in Preserving All Creation

by Avery Mack

T

he simple act of switching on a “We need to know what is sacred and bulb can light a room; preaching what matters for generations to come,” that humans are caretakers of the says Bass. “This is an exciting time for Earth can enlighten a community. “How communities of faith to work together.” are we faithful to God’s creation?” asks Churches, synagogues, mosques and Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., author of other faith groups are sending a mesGrounded: Finding God in the World— sage to their congregations and comA Spiritual Revolution, in Alexandria, munities: We need to care for what the Virginia. “The connection between the Creator has given us. natural world and the world we live in helps us understand Showing the Way The film Renewal “We wanted to reduce the remarkable responsibility we have to the documents this grass- reliance on foreign oil, planet.” support local businesses, roots movement at buy American-made and

Along with an emotional bottom line, RenewalProject.net. be cost-effective,” says many people pose a Rabbi David Freelund, greater question: What is the cost to of the Cape Cod Synagogue, in Hyanour spiritual life if we act selfishly? nis, Massachusetts. “Going solar made

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sense. We leased panels, joined a renewable energy credit program and now generate 90 percent of our energy.”

The synagogue also upgrades equipment to more efficient levels when it’s time for replacement, composts waste, maintains a garden to supply a local food pantry, switched to LED lights, zoned their facility’s heating and cooling and follows a single-stream recycling program. “We seek to lead by example. Members ask, ‘What else can we do?’ As Jews, our mission is not fulfilled unless we lift up others toward the divine,” says Freelund.

Windows often make up a large portion of a building of worship, but can be the least energy-efficient components. Members of Colorado’s Steamboat Christian Center, in Steamboat Springs, used to wear sunglasses or change seats during services to escape the sun’s glare and heat. After installing smart glass windows, everyone can now fully concentrate on the sermon.

“The glass tints like transition sunglasses, based on available light or preprogrammed preferences,” explains Brandon Tinianov, a senior director with View Dynamic Glass, the company that supplied the new windows. “It also reduces heating and cooling costs.”

Laying Down Burdens

“Clutter represents postponed decisions,” says Barbara Hemphill, author of Less Clutter, More Life, in Raleigh, North Carolina. “Lack of time, interest and energy keep us from passing along what we no longer want or need. For most of us, 80 percent of what we keep, we never use.”

That includes paperwork, another specialty of her Productive Environment

Institute. When the United Methodist North Carolina Conference Center’s new building was ready, there was plenty to sort through before moving. “We estimate seven tons of items were recycled.

It became an example for individual churches,” says Hemphill.

Her own church, Mount Zion Methodist, in nearby Garner, has cleared out two storage rooms. Items were reclaimed, auctioned or donated to a shelter. “We gained Sunday school rooms in return,” she says.

Practice Makes Perfect

Awareness of the environment and ecofriendly living is a concept religions agree on. At the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, in Sterling, Virginia, an education program encourages community members to recycle, plant trees and lower water and energy usage. Including their Sunday School, they reduced their overall carbon footprint by 13 percent and energy consumption by 21 percent. Interfaith Power & Light is active in most states and can help implement such user- and ecofriendly changes.

Imam Johari Abdul-Malik, the director of outreach for the Dar Al Hijrah Islamic Center, in Falls Church, Virginia, suggests thinking larger and encourages members to ask for changes in public policies by lobbying their representatives. In 2016, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago will promote a Green Ramadan. During Ramadan, members re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance.

Greener than most, The Garden Church, in San Pedro, California, has no building. “People tell me, ‘The outdoors is my church;’ I take them at their word,” says founding Pastor Anna Woofenden. “We have a central table surrounded by gardens. About 90 percent of what we grow is vegetables, the rest is flowers. This church is a living sanctuary, a place to belong, a place of community. God’s love is made visible as people are fed in body, mind and spirit.”

“Eco-friendly teaching represents a new spiritual imagination of how to live well in the world,” observes Bass. “Faith makes a difference.”

Think Spring, Green Living, and Adopting a Manatee.

Call 1-800-432-(JOIN) 5646 savethemanatee.org

Photo © David Schrichte

Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com. natural awakenings

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inspiration

RECIPE FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR Fail-Proof Ingredients for a Glorious 2016

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Take 12 whole months.

Clean them thoroughly of all bitterness, hate and jealousy.

Make them just as fresh and clean as possible.

Cut each month into 28, 30 or 31 different parts, but don’t make up the whole batch at once.

There is a better way. A natural way.

Prepare one day at a time with these ingredients: Mix well into each day one part each of faith, patience, courage and work.

Also add to each day one part of hope, faithfulness, generosity and kindness.

Blend with one part prayer, one part meditation and one good deed.

Season the whole with a dash of good spirits, a sprinkle of fun, a pinch of play and a cupful of good humor.

Pour all of this into a vessel of love.

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naturalpet

Eat, Bark and Be Merry Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

A

s with families everywhere, special taste treats are on the menu for many dogs, cats and wild birds during the holiday season.

Owners are cautioned not to share rich, unfamiliar foods from the table that can be detrimental to an animal’s health.

Better fare are homemade treats of organic, safe and tasty ingredients—true gifts from the heart.

Homemade assures the quality of ingredients, avoids unhealthy additives and allows the giver to adjust for individual taste or food sensitivities.

Most healthy recipes can be made from readily available ingredients.

Wild Birds

Offer them a variety of seeds and fresh water. Always use unsalted, unseasoned seeds. Mix harder-to-crack striped sunflower seeds with the smaller black oil version to attract the largest number of birds. Organically grown peanuts in the shell, dried fruit, oranges, pomegranates or rehydrated raisins offer a burst of energy. Impale round fruits, halved, on a small dowel rod attached to the feeding table to hold them in place.

Note that oats go to waste, shelled sunflower seeds spoil and cracked corn attracts raccoons. Pass on any kind of popcorn.

DIY Suet

Mix one part organic peanut butter with five parts organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) corn meal.

Smear into a pinecone to hang from a branch or directly on tree bark for woodpeckers and wrens to 52

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enjoy. Don’t use low-fat peanut butter because birds need to pack in the calories in order to stay warm.

Cats

Organic catnip, fresh or dried and baked into a crunchy treat, will bring kitty running. In recipes, avoid canned tuna because of bisphenol A (BPA) concerns; also minimize the frequency and portion of tuna and salmon treats due to mercury accumulation in the fish.

Unseasoned tuna or salmon packed in water in a pouch is a better choice.

Many recipes labeled for dogs can be converted for cats by making them into smaller bites.

Dogs

“When possible, I put organic and local foods, non-GMO, hormoneand antibiotic-free, grass-fed and humanely raised properties at the top of my list. A healthier

dog means fewer vet visits and more years together,” says Tonya Wilhelm, a dog trainer in Toledo, Ohio. “Buy in bulk from a co-op or farmer and maybe share with friends to get the best price.”

Dehydrated Foods

Dehydrating removes moisture from food while retaining nutrients, and comprises a distinct cooking method.

Stephanie Raya, resident chef at Excalibur Dehydrator, in Sacramento, California, recommends, “For safe chicken and pork, pre-cook before dehydrating. Beef can be dehydrated from a raw state. My Boston terriers also love dehydrated, sweet potato chips.”

A number of commercial dehydrated meat and fish jerkies have been recalled (search DogFoodAdvisor. com/?s=treats). Homemade treats offer superior control of ingredients.

“When I make my pets’ treats, I know what’s in their food, including the herbs used for flavor,” says Raya. After she’s ensured that the food is thoroughly dried, she packs it in vacuum bags and stores them away from light. She notes that dehydrating takes longer than baking, but is cost-effective at 25 to 50 cents an hour. Veggie options include dehydrated zucchini chips, butternut squash chips, cherry tomato bites, matchstick carrots or peach or other fruit slices.

Make it Festive

A cat’s sense of smell is 10 to 15 times better than ours, but is still modest compared to dogs that out-sniff us by a factor of 30 to 60 times; that’s why putting wrapped treats under a holiday tree or in a stocking is a bad idea. Store them securely and then bring them out when it’s time to open gifts. Use blue tissue paper for easy-to-open Hanukkah gifts, red or green for Christmas (bows, yes; ribbons, no). For dogs that love puzzles, placing treats inside a wrapped box adds to the fun.

Remember that rich or unfamiliar foods can make pets sick. Instead, gift them with their own healthy, safe treats from known ingredients so that everyone has a happy holiday.

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Special Holiday Pet Recipes Chicken Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 cup filtered water 10 oz chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into 2-in cubes ½ cup brown rice, dry 1 cup coconut flour 1 Tbsp ground flax seed Place water, chicken and rice in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer covered, for one hour. Strain and let cool.

Coconut Bites

Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Yields: Approximately 20 cookies 1 orange, peeled, seeded, chopped into bite-size pieces 1 banana, peeled, chopped into bite-size pieces ½ cup coconut flour Lemon zest Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Put the orange and banana into a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Combine blended fruit and coconut flour. Mix well. Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Lightly sprinkle lemon zest on the uncooked treats.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Tip: Keep a few treats in an air-tight container and freeze the remainder for later.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Place cooled chicken and rice mixture in a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Place the purée in a large bowl.

Add the coconut flour and flax seed; mix well.

Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Meatball Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 Tbsp virgin coconut oil 10 oz grass-fed hamburger, 85 percent lean 4 oz green pepper, washed, seeded, cut in bite-size pieces 2½ oz kale, washed 3 figs, stems removed 1 cup quinoa flour

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible. natural awakenings

December 2015

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Mix all ingredients except Parmesan.

Knead dough until thoroughly mixed.

If You Learn from

Natural Awakenings,

Roll dough into shapes (like sticks or squares) or use cookie cutter. Roll shapes in the Parmesan. Dehydrate in a dehydrator at 155° F approximately 4 to 6 hours or until dry. For cats, make much smaller shapes.

Share the Knowledge

Recipe courtesy of Chef Stephanie Raya, Excalibur Dehydrator Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheat a frying pan on medium heat for three minutes. Add coconut oil. Coat the pan evenly.

Add hamburger and stir fry until almost fully cooked. Add peppers, kale and figs to the meat. Continue to stir fry until the kale is reduced.

Allow mixture to cool. Then, place mixture into a food processor or blender and purée until smooth.

Combine the blended mixture and quinoa flour. Mix well.

Form into 3-inch flat discs. Place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place on rack to cool.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

3 cups ground lean grass-fed beef 1 cup flour 2 tsp brewer’s yeast 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, drained Combine ingredients in medium bowl and mix thoroughly. Spread on a nonstick 1/8-inch-thick drying sheet.

Dry at 155° F until thoroughly dry and then cut into strips.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Stephanie Raya, Excalibur Dehydrator

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Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Dog Biscuits

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Yields: 36 biscuits

pintrest.com/nasrq publisher@nasrq.com

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Roxanne’s Beef Jerky Strips for Dogs

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Cheesy Crunchies 2 cups whole wheat flour ¼ cup cornmeal ½ cup cheese (any grated cheese) 1 egg 1¾ cup filtered water ½ cup fine-grated Parmesan cheese www.nasrq.com

1 sweet potato, boiled or baked ¼ cup peanut butter, low in fat, sugar and salt 1 egg 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 Tbsp coconut oil 1 tsp cinnamon, ground 1½ cups organic old-fashioned oats (aka rolled oats) Boil or bake sweet potato. Allow to cool before removing the peel if baked.

Heat oven to 350° F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Mix meat and broth, and then add oatmeal and egg.

Using a fork, flake the fish into a bowl and add the remaining ingredients.

Use a mixer to blend all ingredients together except the oatmeal. Once combined, fold in oats with a spoon.

If dough is too wet, add more flour.

Form into 8 small patties.

Form small, marble-sized balls by hand and store refrigerated in an airtight container.

Roll out cookie dough to ¼-inch-thick sheet and cut with any shaped cookie cutter. Fill cookie sheets.

Bake 35 to 40 minutes, until biscuits are hard to the touch.

Broil one or two at a time, leaving them fairly rare.

Allow to cool, and then serve. They’ll keep in the refrigerator up to three days if the meat is fresh.

Freeze the other patties until ready to use, good for up to four months.

Recipe courtesy of Janet Cantrell, Fat Cat Spreads Out

Recipe courtesy of Livia J. Washburn, Trick or Deadly Treat

Go Go Balls

gar en

Kitty Patties

Yields: 30 to 32 balls

YO G A C E N T E R

Yields: 8 small patties

½ cup water-packed tuna fish or salmon (from a BPA-free pouch) 4 oz light cream cheese 2 Tbsp dried catnip (or more to taste)

Cool and place in an airtight container.

½ lb grass-fed, lean ground beef ½ lb lean ground turkey 4 Tbsp low-salt chicken stock 4 eggs ½ cup oatmeal or 1 packet instant oatmeal

Recipe courtesy of Janet Cantrell, Fat Cat at Large

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Drain the fish. If using salmon, remove the skin and bones.

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December 2015

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Beauty and the Aging Beast

by Angelena Craig

ave you ever seen someone and thought, “She must have been a beauty when she was younger,” or “I bet he was a good looking man, way back when?”

We tend to equate aging with diminished beauty because, after a certain age, the skin often loses its taut and smooth appearance; the hair becomes less full and shiny; and the waistline starts expanding.

I still remember when that first red flag began waving, a sign that I had gotten older and moved into a different phase of life. This turning point came shortly after my fiftieth birthday when I was repeatedly asked, “Are you alright? You look tired.”

I wanted to shout out, “I’m not sick, and I’m not tired!

I’m just older!”

These messages informed me that I had left my youthful appearance behind. I was now “over the hill” and on the downslide.

Depending on our genes, environment and how well we take care of ourselves, physical beauty fades—at least by society’s narrow standards. This can be a challenging adjustment, especially if our looks have always been important to us. We may no longer attract positive attention or turning heads. We might become largely unnoticed.

Although it is still possible to invest time, energy and finances into preserving our looks, many aging people might choose not to for the purpose of avoiding vanity or superfici-

H

ality. Besides, we can save ourselves money and aggravation if we accept that looking younger is often a fleeting pursuit.

Therefore, some simply surrender and quietly enter their senior years.

However, for those who attempt to recapture their physical youth, the anti-aging industry convinces consumers that, unlike previous generations, we don’t have to appear or feel old. These businesses urge us to obtain a gym membership, hire a personal trainer, and rely on various beauty products lining the pharmacy aisles.

Cosmetic surgeons tell us that we need hair or breast implants, and encourage us to try liposuction if diet and exercise don’t promote weight loss. We are offered Botox to freeze the frown lines and fillers to puff up the face. Lasers can resurface the skin, removing wrinkles and age spots. We can visit hair stylists for a new color or younger-looking cut.

We can even buy clothes in the latest fashions. There are several options to maintain a pleasing appearance—no matter our age.

Getting older typically requires spending more time and energy on self-care regimens. Everyday activities like going to work, an event or even to the local supermarket require more physical prepping than when we were young.

Is it pure vanity that motivates us to spend a small fortune on these products and procedures? Or, is this simply how we achieve an attractive and well-rested look? In this competitive world where youth and beauty are adored, while the elderly are sadly marginalized, taking steps to feel healthy and younger is just another way that we make a positive impression on the outside world.

However, beauty regimens only focus on the outer self.

Aging, of course, also affects our bodies’ internal processes.

The cells cannot multiply as they once did. The joints, muscles and organs lose their vitality as we become older.

Scientific evidence indicates that consistently exercising and eating healthy helps maintain strength, flexibility, balance and longevity. Healthy weight management also helps protects the heart and musculoskeletal system which is an important ingredient in slowing down the aging process.

Beyond diet and exercise, vitamins, herbs and healing practices—like massage and yoga—can reduce physical and emotional aging stressors. As in all health matters, we must become informed consumers. Research on slowing—or even reversing—these effects are readily available in medical journals, newsletters and the web.

Remember that aging is a natural undeniable and unavoidable process. However, we have some control over remaining ageless and timeless. We can choose to adopt a positive attitude of acceptance and make peace with our seemingly outer flaws. We can also focus on that quality of “inner beauty” and appreciate the abiding courage it takes to grow old.

Angelena Craig is a Sarasota-based professional yoga instructor, teaching slow flow and chair yoga. She leads a workshop, “How to Age Gracefully and Healthfully.” Craig is also a columnist, addressing issues important to the Baby Boomer generation and beyond. For more information, visit ANewAgingMovement.com.

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Experience a Winter Solstice Ceremony at South Lido Beach

setting sun. A meditation on the five elements, led by Patricia Cockerill, sets a reverent tone for the evening. This meditation is then followed by a group song and chant that echoes across the sands. This is our Winter Solstice observance, celebrating the return of the sun’s healing light.

A mandala of lights will be created in the circle’s center.

This mandala serves as an altar for participants to place individual tea lights, representing their wishes for the New Year. Drumrise—led by Barbara Gail, along with The Venice Frame Drummers under Jewell Cochara’s direction—will hold the beat for this entire evening. Jeannie Bloomfield dances the circle in a performance inspired by the sun’s return. As darkness falls, the mandala will be lit with all these tea lights.

Participants are asked to bring their own tea lights, chairs, blankets and flashlights. Donations will be collected on behalf of the mayors’ Feed the Hungry program. This ManateeSarasota County organization feeds thousands of families in need during the holiday season, and is a charity supported annually by the Women’s Meditation Circle. This event will be held at South Lido Beach State Park on the Gulf Side, and will begin at 5 p.m. Men and children are also invited to attend.

For more information, email JoMooy@gmail.com or visit StarSoundings.com.

by Jo Mooy

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n December 20, the Northern Hemisphere is cloaked in the shortest hours of daylight, signifying the longest night of the year. For three days, the sun appears to stand still before starting its ascent from darkness into light and longer days. Our ancestors gathered at major ceremonial sites like Newgrange in Ireland to honor the sun during seasonal changes. We celebrate this seasonal change as they did, but we gather instead at South Lido Beach to honor the sun’s return. On this night of great introspection, we summon ourselves out of the dark with a personal return to light.

Drums sound a processional, as participants arrive to the

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December 2015

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by Juliette Jones

The Best Gift Might Arrive A Little “Out of the Box”

O

nce upon a time, on a past Christmas Eve, I was late getting home from work and realized my African Grey Parrot named Admiral Bird was almost out of seed mix. His eating habits were particular, so I made a mad dash to the local pet store for his preferred food, as I knew they would be closing early.

Wending my way through a crowded flurry of other last-minute holiday shoppers, I managed to squeak through the front door just as the lone clerk stepped up to lock it behind me. Hastening to the bird supply section, I grabbed what I needed and hurried to the checkout counter, only to find myself stalled at the end of a long line. With party plans pending and much to do, I took a deep breath, deciding to welcome a few moments of relaxation. After all, “Peace on Earth” is the mantra of Christmas.

By observing the store’s layout, it appeared that owner,

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like most successful pet store marketing types, had mastered the art of “Pet-Placement Feng Shui.” Octagonal enclosures with clear plexiglass siding were positioned in full view of the stalled patrons—all captives of the checkout experience.

Surely, my intense devotional practice of enlightened detachment, cultivated from past animal liberation excesses, would suffice to protect me from entanglement in this obvious ploy.

Before my wandering eyes appeared wood-shaving bedded runs with bunnies hopping to and fro, and just beyond this, a gang of playful adolescent ferrets wrestled mightily.

Closer to the bird section, numerous parakeets, arrayed in all the colors of a pastel rainbow, wound down from their daylight antics.

Watching them drew my focus to thoughts of Christmas’ past. Memories of my dad and younger brother Owen stringing multi-colored lights on a fragrant blue spruce tree, the image of a much-desired chartreuse baby parakeet in a gleaming chrome cage, and remembrances of my mother reading “The Night Before Christmas” quietly stirred my heart. “‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even…” Suddenly, the spell of the reverie ended abruptly as my eye fell upon something disturbing.

Perched alone at the center of a large pen, huddled a small green bird. Even from across the room, I sensed this little bird was mourning. What situation had caused this—of all creatures—lovebird to be housed alone without a companion? I thought lovebirds were supposed to be kept in pairs. I tried to withdraw my attention and invoke some sense of inner peace with words of the Buddha: “What is, is best.”

This didn’t work at all, however, and I began to feel anxious to discuss this bird’s plight with the clerk.

The young man had large, vaguely sad eyes. “Look over here.” I pointed across the room to the lovebird. “Aren’t lovebirds supposed to be in pairs?” The sadness of his face became more pronounced as he tried to repeal my directness.

“Please, Miss, I don’t want to think about that anymore.

I’ve been thinking about it all day.” I could see he was upset and sensitive to animal welfare, so I wondered how someone with his sensitivities could work in a pet store. I pressed forward, softening my approach. “Please, won’t you tell me what happened?”

“A man came in today who wanted to buy a lovebird, and he did—the companion of that bird you see over there.

I tried to get him to take them both, but he didn’t. So, that’s it—that’s the whole story.”

So much for enlightened detachment. I could feel wheels turning in my head as I attempted to grasp my next move.

Taking the bird home was not the solution. Such action would create other problems without solving the essential difficulty. What seemed best might be to bring the birds back together again. Yet, the man had purchased only the one bird.

Who would do that, and why?

As he let the second to last customer out of the store and locked the door behind him, only the animals remained as witnesses. I asked the young man, “Did the customer who bought the bird pay with a credit card?” In his eyes, I sensed that the same glimmer of hope inching forward in my own mind.

“Yes.” “Did you write his phone number on the sales slip?” (This was the practice back then.)

“I think so.”

“Well, what are you waiting for?”

He looked at me analytically for a moment. “That bird is going to cost forty dollars.”

“So, then it does. It’s Christmas, isn’t it?

Let’s try to change the story.”

“Yes it is Christmas!” he exclaimed, while reaching underneath the counter and retrieving a stack of credit card receipts. Any ideas about consumer privacy flew out the window in favor of what we deemed a more important consideration.

Then, he lifted the phone from behind the counter and placed it in front of me.

As the first ring signal droned in my ear, I looked over again at the little bird and hoped someone would answer. On the second ring, I wondered why anyone would be unfeeling enough to separate these two lovebirds. Insensitivity—not a good sign. At that moment, a female voice interrupted my thoughts with an almost imperceptible, “Hello.” I could tell this lady hailed from the islands, probably Jamaica.

“Yes, hello—you don’t know me, but did someone in your family buy a bird at the pet store today?” There was a long pause, followed by a reluctant yet affirmative reply.

“Well good…good! You see, I’m up here at the pet store—you know on Federal Highway. And the bird you bought—a lovebird—well, they’re supposed to stay in pairs. The mate of your bird is still here, and he looks sad, so if you would be willing to adopt him, I’d be happy to give this bird to your family as a holiday gift…if that’s all right with you?”

Again, a long silence.

I pressed on. “You know, as a celebration of the holiday season.” I assumed Island Lady practiced the Christian faith, but I couldn’t be sure. There are many different religious affiliations in South Florida.

The silence felt like forever until, finally a response, “Are you for real?”

“Yes, I mean exactly and truly what I say.”

After another long pause, I heard what sounded like a tearful reply, “You are for real, aren’t you?”

As the clerk captured the bird and natural awakenings

December 2015

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gently placed him in a cardboard travel container, I happily noted this little feathered creature had roused enough to hop around and make bright peeping noises. I chose to believe he sensed the situation was about to change for the better. I reached for my credit card, only then noticing it was getting dark and remembering I needed to start getting ready for my evening. The young man walked me to the door with bright, smiling eyes and wished me a happy holiday.

The lady on the phone had given clear directions, and I recognized her neighborhood was in close proximity. I also knew it was not—generally speaking—a place of peace and prosperity.

As I drew closer to my destination, I saw depression etched in the decay of tenements, and the darkness of the evening seemed to fall more deeply. I had visited this neighborhood many times in the course of my hospice work as a chaplain, but on this night, my mission seemed less certain. Still, the beauty of the night covered everything below, and the stars beckoned remembrance of the cosmos as a beautiful place. I wondered if those stars were guiding me like the Christmas star guided the Magi. I only knew I was guided by a light of inner desire.

Then, my surroundings began to appear surreal. The narrow street with rows of cars parked tightly on either side closed in on me. An oversized apartment building loomed large in the foreground like a giant pop-tart. I decided this “Alice-in-Wonderland” feeling was not going to deter me. I struggled to spot an address.

Suddenly, a little house came into view set back in the center of a large, manicured lot. Light streamed from the windows and gave the place an impression of being aglow. On the porch, stood two little girls in holiday dresses with neatly braided hair.

When they saw me, their vigilance exploded into excitement, and they rushed inside to alert their mother of my arrival. Miraculously, a parking space appeared, and as I reached over to collect my tiny passenger in the cardboard box, I whispered, “I think you’re welcome in your new home.”

We greeted each other on the front porch with shy introductions, overwhelmed by the unconventionality of what had just occurred. The little girls gazed at me with big brown eyes, and I suggested we should put this little bird in the cage with his friend. Everyone responded enthusiastically, and we went inside where the warmth and cheerfulness of the hearth felt like an embrace. The furniture looked comfortable and thoughtfully arranged, and there was a large birdcage placed on a hutch at the back of the dining room.

Inside, the other lovebird sat quietly to the side of one perch. When we opened the cage door and released the new arrival, both birds began hopping up and down. “Well, now they’re back together!” I exclaimed, and little girls who smiled.

One of them looked about five and the other seven or eight. The pleasure in their eyes made this adventure worthwhile.

I glanced at their mother and noticed there were tears in her eyes. “I can’t believe this is happening. You don’t know what you’ve done,” she confided. “You’ve brought an answer to a prayer. If only my husband were here now.” She lowered her voice, “You see, we wanted to get each of the girls a lovebird for Christmas, but things have been hard since my husband’s accident. Last year, he fell off a roof and broke his back. They say it’s a miracle he can walk. But God has been good to us.”

With clasped hands, she closed her eyes and murmured

a short prayer of gratitude. “My husband wanted so much to get both of the girls a lovebird, but we can’t afford it right now.

He told me he felt so bad about taking one bird and leaving the other behind. He felt bad about it all day. We didn’t know what to do.”

Island Lady dissolved into tears while the two little girls jumped up and down, laughing and mimicking the joy of these reunited lovebirds. I stood still, not knowing exactly what to do. When Island Lady’s husband walked through the door and onto the scene, I couldn’t imagine what impression might be running through his mind. Everyone started talking at once, and somehow, the three of them managed to explain the whole story in about thirty seconds. As he turned to shake my hand, I saw the true meaning of Christmas on his shining face.

I knew in that moment I was living in the holiday spirit. My childhood memories rushed back for the second time and filled me with the fragrance of spruce, my own dear family, and mystical lights which once adorned our tree. All of this was achieved in a single instant, simply by looking into the eyes of a perfect stranger.

“Could you sit with us for awhile?” he asked. By this time, I was off-schedule with my planned agenda, but one must always make time for perceived miracles. We all enjoyed a cup of tea. He told me about his accident and how he was finding ways to support his family. I told him about my life and work as a hospice chaplain. We talked about the “little miracle” that had brought us together.

Feeling comfortable and relaxed, he decided to reveal something deeper. “I wouldn’t tell this to just anyone, except someone like you who will understand.”

He cleared his throat, as his voice had grown husky. “While I lay on the ground after falling from the roof, I saw light, then an angel came to me and said, “You don’t have to worry now because everything is going to be all right.” The five of us sat quietly, suspended in the grace of the moment. “Yes,” I shared with him, “I do understand. I’ve seen angels, too.”

When it was time to leave and we said our good-byes, I realized—in a certain way—this was the best Christmas present I’d ever received. I only had to let myself step outside the box to experience this present. After all, the best gifts don’t always come in packages—they might arrive a little “out of the box!”

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December 2015

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The Crystal Cave: Your Holiday Destination to Make this Season “Sparkle”

by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

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evered for centuries based on their metaphysical properties and restorative energies, crystals evoke fascination, inspiration and a spiritual connection within many people. One such individual is Susan Moen, founder and sole-proprietor of The Crystal Cave, an alluring retreat on Fruitville Road that specializes in sourcing authentic minerals, stones, fossils and, of course, crystals from around the world.

A self-taught practitioner of the ancient crystal therapy art, Moen has been passionately honing her craft for several decades. “After being a rock hound (avid stone and mineral collector) since childhood, I morphed into crystal healing 30 years ago,” she explains.

Guided by this innate magnetic-like pull, Moen opened a metaphysical boutique in Massachusetts which she aptly named The Crystal Cave. After operating in New England for 18 years, Moen later found herself seduced by Southwest Florida’s “vibrant metaphysical community.” So, she relocated down to Sarasota where The Crystal Cave has flourished over these past two years.

Moen identifies amethyst and quartz among her most popular sellers, both of which emit soothing vibrations— ideal for counteracting holiday-induced tension with inner peace. Amethyst coaxes physical and emotional balance, while quartz promotes harmonious energy-flow and heightened clarity. Together, these stones serve as natural stress relievers throughout the season’s characteristic “hustle and bustle.”

In addition, The Crystal Cave offers a unique and eclectic treasure trove of jewelry, pendulums, carvings, chimes, suncatchers, Tibetan singing bowls and other aweinspiring sundries. “A sacred gift from the earth is a truly special way to delight your loved ones during the holidays,” exudes Moen.

This calming, therapeutic sanctuary also hosts a diverse array of events, workshops and readings each month. In

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fact, on December 4, the community is invited to experience the wellness-enhancing benefits of sound meditation, guided by accomplished Reiki practitioner Edward Russell. “The sound vibrations from crystal bowls and gongs will provide relaxation during this hectic season of constant activity and running around,” adds Moen.

She continues, “We will kick off holiday shopping on December 5, from 2–4 p.m., featuring music by local singersongwriter Michael Miller, accompanied by vocalist and ukulele player Alex Foster. There will also be festive snacks to nourish you while choosing that special gift!” Additionally, throughout this month, The Crystal Cave will expand its hours of operation in order to accommodate the season’s upsurge in retail demand. “Our regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 11 a.m.–5 p.m., but we will be open on Mondays until December 21 for your crystal gift-giving needs,” Moen clarifies.

So, as that annual flurry of holiday commotion descends upon you over these next several weeks, reclaim your serenity by stepping inside this spiritually-centered haven, located in Sarasota’s historic downtown village. After all, it’s “crystal clear” that sometimes we all need a personal reprieve to make the entire season sparkle with healing energy.

The Crystal Cave is located 1899B Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-346-6203 or visit CrystalCave.me.

Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is the Managing Editor of Natural Awakenings Sarasota-Manatee. She also works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer, based in Southwest Florida. Her personal blog, HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress. com, features practical tips for embracing a fit, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

Find the Mastery behind the Season’s Magic

by Reverend Elizabeth Thompson, Unity of Sarasota Senior Minister

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n December 8, 7 p.m., in Unity of Sarasota’s Fellowship Hall at Unity of Sarasota, come learn about “The Magic of Least Effort: the Principle behind Christmas Spirit.” Throughout the history of humankind, people have believed that one must struggle, strive and work like a slave in order to attain one’s dreams. That belief, however, is false.

Allow me to amend this concept. Simply put, the magic of this season is the miracle of spiritual rebirth. The governing principle is “right effort equals right result.” The wise one, who sees with spiritual eyes, knows truth with divine mind and loves as the divine heart, recognizes that too much striving pushes away the good that is desired.

The right viewpoint is an essential tool for spiritual vision. If you can envision your desired experience, then it already exists in creation. But how, is this accomplished? Creation is complete. It is the realm of ideas, energy and intention. Our role is to bring these three into alignment and make them one through the “Law of Least Effort.” To do this, we must look upon them with great love.

Throughout the millennia, humanity has sought guidance from without—studying the stars, going to this teacher or that guru, and always pursuing the desired end through a false avenue. The true master teacher or guru, however, willingly reminds the seeker that every fulfillment sought is already fully present within. They reveal the “way within.” They point to the “truth within.”

Equally true is their spiritual power is an awesome contagion that assists everyone in their quest to reclaim spiritual authority. The magic of the Christmas season is that we each become our own midwives to our own spiritual rebirths. We have already conceived the light of truth, space of grace and peace of divine love. Now, we must birth them into full expression in this present season of life through our hearts and minds.

Unlike the human birth experience, where the mother goes into labor, a spiritual birth is accomplished labor-free.

In fact, with our spiritual birth, less is more. Right effort is required with due diligence. This means that we look up our desire with soft eyes, soft heart, open mind, willing spirit and complete rest. Repeat, as the soul requires.

In this “magical” practice, the mystery is removed. Fulfillment is complete, and our role is to realize this and assume our claim in this moment. We no longer need to gorge, hoard or purge. Your fulfillment is already at hand. Look upon it, accept it into your heart, and allow it to manifest your image and likeness. This is the magic of creation made manifest here and now. The longing we have in our hearts and the image of an ever-abiding truth in our consciousness is to be spiritually discerned and materially fulfilled. (A word to the wise: include in your desire, “This or something even better.”)

The messenger of spiritual truth declared to those keeping watch at night, “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy.” The truth of your spiritual power is a tiding of great joy! Keep watch over your thoughts and see how they reflect a great reality born within you. Like Mary, ponder these tidings in your heart. The magic of this spiritual rebirth is upon you throughout the Christmas season.

At Unity of Sarasota, together, we will explore this intriguing venue with other like-minded souls. All are welcome to attend as we experience the joy of being positively aware!

Unity of Sarasota is located at 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. For more information on our upcoming events and activities, call 941-955-3301 or visit UnityOfSarasota.com.

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December 2015

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Lighting…The Natural Way to Purify Our Air & Water

by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

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iving in the Sunshine State offers undeniable advantages—access to world-class beaches, year-round outdoor amenities and perpetual warm temperatures, for instance.

However, despite these benefits, unpredictable weather patterns come with the territory of a Florida lifestyle.

The Suncoast, specifically, has the nation’s highest lightning concentration which can damage property, cause bodily harm and even lead to death. In fact, these occupational hazards are what most people associate with lighting strikes.

While we generally fear this natural phenomenon, though, lightning possesses qualities that we need to stay alive.

As it travels through the atmosphere, lightning turns oxygen (O2) into the gaseous compound O3 which chemists call ozone. This conversion forms a 10-mile high and 10mile wide radius, known as the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful UV solar rays. Whenever lightning strikes during a rain storm, the surrounding air carries a fresh scent from generated ozone in the atmosphere, cleansing our oxygen supply. This naturally occurring process enhances humankind’s ability to breathe.

For about a century, European countries have been harnessing the untainted purification properties of ozone to decontaminate their food and drinking water for safe consumption. This 100-year-old technology is still considered a novelty throughout the United States—but its demand is increasing.

The USDA and FDA approved ozone usage around

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2001, primarily for organic farming and food processing purposes. In certain U.S. regions, ozone depuration stations are utilized to rid shellfish of toxins before entering the wholesale market, and most public aquariums sanitize tanks with ozone so tourists can view the marine exhibits underwater. Additionally, in major urban centers, ozone purifies over five billion gallons of drinking water per day.

Within the medical field, ozone has become a preferred method of sterilizing equipment, and food processing plants clean industrial waste water and production machinery with this compound. Also, here in Florida, ozone purification is the standard grade for multiple citrus fruit packing warehouses.

When applied to drinking water, ozone oxidizes contaminants like bacteria, viral strains, iron, magnesium, sulfur and tannins—which is how Sparky Healthy Water fits into the equation. Manufactured locally in Venice, this company has gained widespread recognition as Florida’s leading producer of hybrid water sanitation systems, using ozone technology.

This self-contained unit operates on a patented oxygen bubbler and eco-friendly aeration filter to organically clean an entire household’s water supply. “Lighting turns ozone into a natural air and water purification system that we make ondemand with an efficient three-amp power source.

“Since the byproduct of ozone is 100% oxygen, there is no salt or chemical content, and never a filter to replace. In fact, that’s the idea behind our name—‘Sparky’ because the electric currents from lightning generate ozone, and ‘Healthy’ because ozone is 150 times stronger and 3,500 times fasteracting than chlorine,” explains the company founder Bill Nelson.

Most restaurants, homes and public spaces throughout this area rely on salt water softeners and hazardous chemicals to distil drinking water, but the World Health Organization cautions that people over age 40, or who require a lowsodium diet, should not consume these artificial substances.

Moreover, every household operating on salt water softener will annually discharge about 12,000–50,000 gallons of saline-laced brine water into the environment.

Conversely, Nelson illuminates, “Sparky Healthy Water’s patented stainless steel Oxygen Bubbler Aerator will sanitize

both well and city water, creating small bubbles of oxygen in all faucets throughout your house to provide clean and delicious water for the whole family.” So, next time you see a lightning bolt streak across the horizon, just consider it nature’s way of affording us breathable air, purified water and safety from toxic pollutants.

For more information on installing a Sparky Healthy Water system in your own home, call 1-941-202-9050, email CustomerService@SparkyHealthyWater.com or visit SparkyHealthyWater.com.

Interesting Ozone Facts: • Ozone disinfects water, eliminating color, taste and odor • Ozone is 150 times more powerful than chlorine • Ozone is 3,500 times faster-acting than chlorine • Ozone leaves behind no toxic or carcinogenic byproducts

Ozone Kills: • E.coli Staphylococcus Areus • Fecal Streptococci Salmonella Choleraesuis • Staphylococcus Aureua Bacillus Subtillis • Aspergillus Niger Bacillus Antracis (Anthrax)

Chinese Health Gem of the Month: 10 Foods that Nourish the Brain

by Rene Ng (DOM, AP, L.Ac.)

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n Chinese Medicine, the kidney system is directly associated with the function and health of the brain.

Therefore, in China, people gravitate towards foods that are believed to strengthen the kidneys and promote brain health.

These cognition enhancing foods include the following examples: • seafood (especially salmon and fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids) • nuts, walnuts and seeds • avocado • broccoli • eggs • blueberries • cooked leafy greens (especially spinach and kale) • quinoa • whole grains • tomatoes Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac, is a board-certified, licensed Acupuncture Physician and Chinese Herbalist, based in Sarasota. In 2014, Ng was voted Sarasota’s “Favorite Acupuncture Physician” for the second year in a row, and he also earned the area’s “Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner” distinction. For more information, call 941-773-5156 or email RNG@ChineseMedicalSolutions.com.

Hypnosis for Health, Well Being, and Success

Ozone Removes: • Micro-organisms • Viruses and Bacteria • E. Coli 3 (125 times faster than chlorine.)

• THM formation (a problem with chlorine) • Oxidation of inorganics • Taste and odor control • Micro-flocculation • Oxidizing synthetic and volatile organic chemicals • Legionalla pneumophila (bacteria responsible for Legionnaires disease) • Bacillus and Clostridium spores • Amoebae Cysts and Free Amoebae • Giardia, Cryptosporidium and Algae • Iron, Manganese, Cadmium, Zinc, Nitrate and Sulfides • Heavy metals (arsenic, copper and lead) • Over 700 individual organic compounds natural awakenings

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The Season of Sugar: Setting the Stage for a Successful New Year

by Beau Smith, D.C.

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he sugar season is well underway. It begins with Halloween and extends through Valentine’s Day. As a society, we expand these special occasions into a lengthy season of parties and festivities. Any reason to celebrate is a good reason, we rationalize.

The holidays offer opportunities to maintain friendships and connections which is an important component of health.

Unfortunately, though, many people demonstrate their love in the form of sugary snacks. Sugar decreases the body’s immune function, packs on the pounds, and can become highly addictive. Therefore, limiting your sugar intake throughout this season will protect your health now and set you up for success this New Year.

Sugar season complicates the cold and flu season. Environmental changes, decreased exercise habits, holiday stress and excessive sugar intake create a perfect storm for sickness.

Simple sugar temporarily shuts down the immune system.

Glucose is the simplest form of sugar that the body uses, and is similar to the chemical structure to vitamin C. When there a high concentration of sugar enters the blood stream, vitamin C content in the white blood cells gets displaced by glucose molecules. This displacement slows or stops these cells’ ability to engulf foreign invaders. This depression of immune function can last up to 5 hours. Studies show that 75–100 grams (20 teaspoons) of sugar depress the body’s immune function. Complex carbohydrates do not have the same effect.

How Much Is Too Much?

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Americans consume a massive amount of sugar each year.

In fact, various sources estimate the average American consumes over 130 pounds of refined sugar annually. Sugar negatively impacts one’s health in at least 76 different ways. The World Health Organization recommends that women limit their sugar consumption to 25 grams per day. Men are only allowed a slightly higher amount. The average American consumes 161.5 grams of sugar per day. That’s more than six times the recommended daily allowance.

To put this statistic into perspective, a typical 12-ounce serving of soda contains roughly 33–39 grams of sugar.

Almost all processed foods contain a large amount of processed sugar. Foods are engineered to make consumers want more. Did you ever notice there are no daily percentage values next to the sugar column on nutrition labels?

There are several different types of sugar. The most common in foods are glucose and fructose. Other sugars can be identified by the suffix “–ose.” The brain uses glucose as its energy source, so when the brain receives glucose, this is perceived as a reward. That sugary sweet reward can be even more enjoyable and attractive than addictive drugs like cocaine.

Glucose spikes blood sugar which stimulates the release of insulin, increases the storage of belly fat, causes inflammation, elevates triglycerides, lowers high density lipids (HDL), raises blood pressure and decreases testosterone.

Insulin blocks the satiation control hormone leptin which makes a person feel full. Therefore, long-term excessive sugar intake creates leptin resistance, fueling a constant sensation of hunger and sugar cravings.

Fructose is another common form of sugar found in food which occurs naturally in fruits and other plants. The food industry uses it heavily in processed ingredients like highfructose corn syrup or just plain fructose. Fructose affects the body slightly differently by stimulates insulin resistance, increasing blood sugar and causing fatty liver, inflammation and the accumulation of body fat. Fructose does not stimulate feedback to the brain or reduce ghrelin, the hormone that controls one’s appetite.

A calorie is a unit of energy under controlled conditions in a laboratory. However, the body is not a laboratory and responds conversely to different forms of fuel. The sugars in soda and processed foods enter the blood stream rapidly, causing the body to rapidly process these substances. Sugars in fruits and vegetables must be sorted out from the fiber content. This fiber slows the absorption of sugar, allowing the body to use it over a period of time. Fiber even prevents some of the sugar from being absorbed.

A myth promoted in the food industry is that weight can be controlled through the “calories in/calories out” equation.

Keep in mind, however, this formula is only partially accurate. Proteins, simple sugars and complex carbohydrates all contain calories that can be broken down into simpler forms of sugar. These various caloric sources respond differently in the body and affect hormones in multiple ways. Excessive sugar consumption causes hormonal imbalances and displaced nutrients. Similarly, changes in normal body chemistry contribute to weight gain and resistance to weight loss.

Strategies for Success The simplest strategy is to raise the culinary bar. There is no reason to deprive yourself of celebrating throughout this holiday season. Learn how to cook amazing yet healthy dishes to serve your loved ones. Make bite-sized sweet treats instead of large portion desserts. Use the most nourishing whole food ingredients available. The American Heart Association reports, “…you can cut the refined sugar in recipes by 1/3 to ½ without tasting the difference.” Or, simply limit your portion size at the various parties.

Reducing your sugar intake during sugar season can help you achieve your New Year’s health goals. Binging on sugar for a couple months prior to cleaning up your diet does not create the conditions for success. Limiting sugar now will protect your physiology, making it easier to lose weight in January. Making small changes in December might improve your chances of making lasting changes in your life throughout 2016.

Excessive sugar consumption depresses your immune function and changes the way your body responds to insulin, leptin and ghrelin. Hormonal changes in the body affect your appetite and ability to feel satisfied after a meal. Excessive sugar intake also can lead to obesity and resistance to weight loss. So, protect yourself and your family this sugar season by reducing your consumption of sugar.

Dr. Beau Smith is a Chiropractic Doctor and founder of Mainstay Chiropractic, along with his wife Dr. Jill Smith. Mainstay Chiropractic is located at 717 Honore Ave., Sarasota. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 941-342-1291, email DrSmith@MainstayChiro.com or visit MainstayChiro.com.

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December 2015

67

The Brain: the Key to a Full, Healthy and Exciting Life

by Rene Ng (DOM, AP, L.Ac)

T

his is a story that many of you have probably heard before.

“In the midst of a war-torn battlefield, a group of soldiers was trapped in a ditch. Bullets whistled by as these soldiers lay low in the ditch, desperately seeking cover. Suddenly, a bullet richocheted off a piece of metal and struck one of the men in his chest. As he lay dying, his last thought focused on his mother, and, with his final breath, the soldier whispered, ‘I love you, Mom.’ At this same instant, thousands of miles away, a mother abruptly jerked awake from her deep sleep and exclaimed, ‘Oh, my God! My son was just killed!’”

How could that be possible, when these two individuals were separated by a considerable physical distance?

This example illustrates the power of the mind—most of which remains untapped and unknown to humankind, as we speak. You see, the son was born of the mother and, therefore, shared a natural communication channel with her that only a mother and child could share. Their cognitive processes were naturally in tune with each other, so when the son died, his last burst of energy sent a thought wave to his mother. This transmission was so strong that it woke her up. We hear similar 68

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stories from twins and others who share intrinsic bonds.

We may not be aware of it, but the power of the mind can be readily observed throughout daily life and the events happening all around us.

However, before we dive into this, we need to understand what powers a person’s mind—the brain. This organ is the central processing unit of the human body. It controls how we think, feel and react, as well as how our other organs function. Our intelligence, opinions, emotions, reasoning abilities orifinate in the brain. Therefore, in order to enjoy a healthy and happy quality of life, a highly functional brain is not only desirable—it’s essential!

Keeping the Brain Healthy The brain is the body’s most important organ, as it controls all other organ and internal functions. It is composed of soft tissue that includes living cells and hormones. Though not a real muscle, the brain functions exactly like a muscle and can strengthen or weaken like a muscle as well. Keeping the brain active through stimulation and consistent use keeps it strong, while not using the brain causes it to become sluggish and lethargic. When the brain is active and strong, a person remains alert, sharp, extroverted and full of zest. Conversely, when the brain is dull and inactive, a person lacks focus, becomes fatigued and frequently exhibits signs of depression.

Keeping the brain strong is a straightforward process—healthy circulation is essential. As previously mentioned, the brain is made of living matter and acts like muscle.

Therefore, just like all living matter and muscle, the brain required oxygen and nutrients delivered through the bloodstream, not only to function, but to survive. A brain with insufficient or poorly oxygenated blood supply is like being in a dimly lit, inadequately ventilated room. In response, an individual promptly becomes sluggish and depleted. Therefore, keeping a healthy and active brain is essential to embracing an active lifestyle.

Stimulating the Brain So, how does one stimulate the brain?

The key is to simply increase blood-

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flow to the brain. Causing the brain to process information, in essence, will increase its blood supply. This is especially the case when an individual delves in creative activities such as artwork, puzzles, dancing, mathematics, playing music and other related pursuits.

In addition to proper diet, supplements such as Ginkgo Biloba and rosemary have been shown to stimulate the brain.

Chinese herbal medicine is extremely effective at increasing brain power— particularly when used in conjunction with acupuncture.

Calming the Brain While stimulating the brain is a positive endeavor, over-stimulation can produce unwanted side-effects such as feeling overwhelmed, suffering from panic attacks, and experiencing difficulty falling or staying asleep. The best method of calming the brain down is to engage in leisure activities, such as reading, meditation, casual walks, bubble baths and experimenting with certain essential oils. The ancient Chinese exercises Tai Chi and Qi Gong also work wonders in keeping the brain calm and healthy.

Effect of the Brain: Depression In Chinese Medicine, depression is associated with a sluggish brain, resulting from lack of nutrients from the circulatory system. The organ is consequently weakened, and its functions become negatively affected.

Also, in Chinese Medicine, the brain is closely associated with the kidney organ system, so its sluggishness typically reflects similar symptoms in the kidneys.

In Chinese Medicine, all organ systems in the body are individually associated with specific emotions—with the kidneys linked to fear and will.

Therefore, an individual exhibiting a sluggish kidney system will often experience a heightened sense of fear, unwillingness to take risks and lack of strong will-power. The key in treating both these issues and depression is to strengthen the kidney system, while boosting blood-flow to the brain through Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture.

Effect of the Brain: Multiple Sclerosis Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an auto-

immune disease in which the immune system attacks itself. Lesions (white matter) develop in the central nervous system (CNS) and will typically manifest on the brain itself. When this happens, the function or activity associated with the affected part of the brain will become impaired. In addition, these lesions can also cause the brain to send pain sensations down the limbs, causing a person to feel phantom pain, shooting through the limbs or even the entire body.

Effect of the Brain: Acupuncture I am often asked by my patients, “How does Acupuncture work?” Well, two explanations directly correlate with the brain. Endorphins (natural pain killers) are released by the brain and travel to the site where needles are inserted.

Therefore, in the treatment of pain and trauma, when needles are inserted strategically at the injured or painful site, an individual will experience pain relief, as these endorphins travel to the area being needled.

Also, scientists have found, through thermal scanning tests, that needles inserted at certain acupuncture points light up specific parts of the brain.

Further study shows that those lit-up cranial regions actually reflect the organ, limb or bodily function an individual is being treated for. This explains why chronic ailments such as constipation, urinary tract infection (UTI), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stones, high blood pressure, glaucoma, weak muscles and other medical conditions can be addressed through needles placed at special acupuncture points. These findings have been recorded in four thousand-year-old Chinese Medicine texts.

Effect of the Brain: Placebos in Healing The other day, I had an interesting discussion with a medical doctor on the topic of the placebo effect in healing. WebMD defines “placebo” as “anything that seems to be a ‘real’ medical treatment, but isn’t—a type of fake treatment used by researchers during studies to help them understand what affect a new drug or treatment might have on a particular condition.”

WebMD also defines “placebo effect” as “an individual’s response to a placebo treatment.”

The individual’s symptoms might seem to have improved or worsened as a result of the placebo treatment.

In my discussion with this doctor, we mutually agreed that because an actual result—positive or negative—occurred, the treatment did, in fact, perform result-producing action. This relates back to the (unknown) power of the brain and its ability to heal when the right components align including will, belief and proper care. We concluded if the person did get better, even if it was through a placebo effect, what’s wrong with that? The fact remains the person got better. This also shows brain has power to heal the body on its own when steered in the right direction.

Effect of the Brain: Cancer Survival In my clinic, I help several cancer patients in their fight against this deadly disease. The primary treatment options in mainstream medicine involve chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and potent medication. These create strong, unpleasant side-effects in the body such as nausea, extreme fatigue, hair loss and severe pain. Chinese Medicine—combining Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, massage, nutrition and cupping—has been shown to be effective as a natural option for the patients in managing their side-effects, as well as expediting their recovery from treatments.

I am often asked by cancer patients, “What are my chances of survival?”

To which, my typical answer is “That depends on you.” When you wake up in the morning and look in the mirror, who do you see? If you see someone who is determined to survive, maintains a positive outlook, and is committed to fight, then your chances of survival increase. However, if you see someone who has given up, feels depressed or resigned, and just wants the ordeal to end, then your prognosis likely will not be positive. The mind plays a crucial role in enhancing a cancer patient’s survival chances.

The Brain as a Healer As previously mentioned, the brain is

the human body’s central processing unit. So, when people keep their brains healthy, alert and optimally functioning, this aids in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle—especially when battling chronic or deadly diseases. As we age, unfortunately, the body and its associated processes (organ systems, circulatory system, endocrine system, cardiac system and pulmonary system, for example) weaken and go downhill.

Eventually, if not addressed, our bodies will reach a point where health issues begin to surface and gradually worsen. If we wait until these conditions noticeably surface, they have already developed internally, meaning we have likely waited too long. Therefore, it is essential to provide as much health maintenance support as possible to counteract declining body functions. This will effectively help manage the aging process and address potential health issues before they occur.

In Summary Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years by the Chinese to maintain proper wellness, manage the aging process, and help individuals age gracefully and healthily.

Many Chinese herbal tonics are used to strengthen organs—especially the brain—to achieve this. Everyone is encouraged to start taking control of their health while they are still healthy, rather than waiting until medical issues become apparent. After all, who doesn’t want to embrace an adventurous life, filled with excitement, memorable moments and optimal health? So don’t procrastinate—take action today towards that healing path.

Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac, is a boardcertified, licensed Acupuncture Physician and Chinese Herbalist, based in Sarasota.

In 2014, Ng was voted Sarasota’s “Favorite Acupuncture Physician” for the second year in a row, and he also earned the area’s “Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner” distinction. For more information, call 941-773-5156 or email RNG@ChineseMedicalSolutions.com.

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December 2015

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Honesty and Trust: the Foundational Pillars of Marriage

by Raymond Bevan

I

n today’s world, marriage runs a 50/50 chance of survival throughout the first 10 years. The reasons cited for this staggering failure statistic include a lack of appreciation, shirking responsibilities, financial issues, loss of communication, unrealistic expectations, family or friend interferences, addiction or abuse issues, decreased sexual drive and infidelity. However, the underlying foundational problem in all these issues points to lack of trust and honesty.

Often, when we embark on a marriage relationship, we enter with past baggage or secrets, unrealistic expectations, insecurities and mistrust to some degree. Regardless of how much we deny that truth, in reality, we are afraid to reveal our true natures. We tell ourselves that our partners will judge us harshly when they see the rawness of who we really are.

Instead, we hide behind person we think they want us to be—the pleasantries, qualities and expectations of the one we love. So, we go into the union with protective masks firmly in place, and that’s when the relationship begins to unravel.

Eventually, reality settles in that we are all, in fact, human.

We have flaws and imperfections which make those initial

expectations falter. At this point, we learn about the real person underneath that mask, and we subsequently feel betrayed. This is where the marriage begins to fail.

However, the journey doesn’t have to end this way.

When we make honesty and trust the pillars of marriage,— and even other relationships—we will not falter. Without Laying a foundation of honesty from the beginning builds trust. Placing ourselves in a transparent light, sharing our pasts and embracing our imperfections will help trust take root. As this trust grows, you will begin to feel an unbreakable bond form between you and your partner— an acceptance and friendship that cannot be broken.

No secrets should ever hide behind your heart—love doesn’t work that way. Putting trust in your partner will free you from the bonds of secrecy, so your marriage relationship can proper like you never imagined. Honesty is the key to any successful marriage, and it’s never too late to start heading down that path together.

At Love, Faith & Hope Life Coaching, we can help open the lines of communication to get your marriage back on that track. Are you ready to find that cherished relationship you have always dreamed of? Remember, true love endures all things.

Raymond and Jacqueline Bevan are Certified Life Coaches, specializing in marriage counseling, women’s issues, spiritual formation and stress management. Their practice is located at 4067 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-702-0216 or connect on social media at Facebook.com/LoveFaithHopeBevan.

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“Feeling” Versus “Doing” the Holidays: a Recipe for Joy & Laughter

by Kathy Keh

F

or most of us, the holiday season is ideally a time we set aside for ourselves to gather with family and friends, to show appreciation for one another, to love, laugh and give thanks for our blessings—to embrace the holiday spirit for which this occasion was intended. That being said, how many of us truly get to “feel” much during the holidays when we “do” so much to make them come together?

Most of us experience stress and anxiety, “doing” all everything we deem necessary in for the perfect holiday season. We shop, cook, clean, prepare, over-spend and overobligate. Ultimately, we deplete ourselves on so many levels that we feel drained, overwhelmed and downright frantic.

During this busy time, it can seem impossible to find enough time to “do” the day’s activities, so our own self-care regimen disappears into the background. This makes for a season that inevitably ends with relief, rather than longing until another year passes, and we repeat the process all over again.

One key to changing this pattern is forcing ourselves to take a “time-out.” Regardless of how we easily rationalize this away, pausing and refocusing on our own needs can help us become genuinely present, connected to the holiday spirit and willing to express affection and appreciation toward our loved ones. This may feel impossible to do, but it’s worth taking a try and seeing if the benefits are worthwhile.

Below are a few suggestions that may be helpful in “feeling” the holidays versus just “doing” them. Start out slow and in small bursts of time. If you believe the effort is paying off, then gradually increase to larger time chunks for even more self-care which will ultimately benefit those around you as well.

• Take five-minute “time-outs” to sit comfortably, be quiet, breathe and listen to the sounds around you.

This can be done at home, your office or in the car.

• Walk on the beach, or in a favorite natural setting, and appreciate the beauty of your environment. Take time to carefully examine something that catches your eye and at and appreciate its intricate details.

• Spend an evening trying a calming activity, like meditation or an art class, which will take your mind off of that to-do list and be present and help you connect with what you’re feeling—the part of you that is filled with creative expression.

• Make gifts for people, rather than buying them. These special tokens come from the heart, and your loved ones will appreciate the effort, sincerity and personal touches you included in their one-of-a-kind present.

Kathy Keh is the owner of Bright Life, an award-winning gift shop and education center and Natural Awakenings’ 2014 winner for “Favorite Business of the Year.” Bright Life is located at 2135 Siesta Dr., Sarasota. Keh is also a Master Practitioner of Classical Feng Shui and an Aura-Soma Chakra Balancing Practitioner. For more information, visit BrightLife-USA.com.

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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email publisher@nasrq.com for guidelines. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit nasrq.com to submit online.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Holly Days and Mangrove Lights at Historic Spanish Point – Dec 1-31. Check out the seasonal festival with decorated homestead buildings and lighted gardens in a beautiful 30-acre setting. Guitar performance Pete Simms, Dec 10. Music by Charlie & the Copper Coils, Dec 17. Music by Kenny Moolinaar on Steel Drums, Dec 18. MonWed 9am-5pm. Sun noon-5pm. The museum will be open until 8pm Thurs & Fri, except for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day when closed. Hours on December 11 and New Year’s Day Noon-5pm.

Adults &Teens $12. Senior discount $2. Children ages 5-12 $5. Free/Members. Guests accompanying Members $5. 337 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey. Info 941-966-5214.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 Qigong – 9-10am. Also Dec 10 & 17. A practice that can positively impact your life-mentally, physically & spiritually. Qigong is an ancient art form that works to strengthen the body’s vital energy. All fitness levels welcome. No mat needed. Wear comfortable clothing, shoes optional. Bring a friend.

Janet Jones, facilitator. Walk-ups welcome $8. Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 S River Rd, Englewood. 941-468-4296, Jonesje1960@gmail.com.

Intuitive & Healer Readings – 10:30am-5:30pm.

Also Dec 29. Join Deborah Chadwick who communicates with her guides and angels, quickly receiving very specific information for her clients.15 mins/$30; 30 mins/$60. Elysian Fields, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

Community Style Acupuncture in Nokomis – 1-3pm. Also Dec 10 & 17. Experience the healing energy of acupuncture with Beach Life Wellness’ open acupuncture with weekly time slots for low-cost, gentle Japanese style acupuncture in a group setting. Lounge in a comfortable chair to receive a powerful treatment in a group space.

Acupuncture has been shown to relieve the pain of musculoskeletal conditions, ease migraines, and assist in the treatment of emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and everyday stress.

Allow Beach Life Wellness to create consistency in your care, disconnecting wealth from health with reasonably-priced acupuncture and regularly scheduled availability. $35/30 mins. 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis. Space is limited, call now to reserve your time slot, 941-244-2006.

Meditation with Stephen Gillum – 5-6pm. Quiet the mind, relieve stress, and find peace with meditation. The focus will be going deeper into stilling the mind using three easy steps to shift awareness from thinking to presence. $14. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280.

RosemaryCourt.com.

The Annual Christmas Walk – 5-8pm. Get into the spirit of the season by enjoying live entertainment, food and drinks, holiday décor and more.

Oh, what fun! Shopping, music and holiday treats.

Along Venice Ave, downtown Venice. December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

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Holiday Nights at Ca’ d’Zan – 5-8pm. Also 12/10 & 12/17. On the grounds of the Ringling Museum.

The mansion is all decked out for the holiday season including a 10’ tall tree. Tickets $5 - $10. Free for members and free with “Art after Five” admission. 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota. 941-358-3180.

Holiday Splendor at The Ringling – 5-9pm. Celebrate the holiday season and help support the U S Marine Corps Toys for Tots program for Sarasota and Manatee counties. Extended evening hours feature holiday music and performances by local elementary, middle and high schools. Food and beverages available for purchase. The Museum of Art, Circus Museum and Ca’ d’Zan (1st floor only) which will be open for viewing. Free Admission with one unwrapped toy per guest; without a toy, regular “Art after 5” admission: $10/adults, $5/ kids 6-17, Free/5 & under. Toys are also available for purchase in the Museum Store. 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota. December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

Muttini Mingle – 5:30-8pm. A pawtastic yappy hour, presented by Salty Paws. Live entertainment.

Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W Retta Espl, Port Charlotte, 800-443-7297.

Spiritual Wisdom on Life after Death – 6:307:30 pm. We will be exploring heaven, near-death experiences, reincarnation, and the truth about the afterlife based on the book Spiritual Wisdom on Life after Death which will be given as a gift to all attendees. Free. Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice. 941-358-0325, Meetup. com/EckankarInSarasota.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 North Port Tree Lighting and Poinsettia Festival – 6pm. This family event that attracts over 5,000 begins with the tree lighting ceremony followed by the festival which will feature local live entertainment, visits with Santa, a kids’ area, food and merchandise vendors and the Gingerbread House Display and competition in the City Hall lobby. North Port City Hall Campus, 4970 City Hall Blvd, North Port. December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

Live from Downtown Sarasota, It’s Friday Night! – 6-9pm. Live street performances with local entertainers and performing arts groups. Rotating locations each week. Local entertainers and performing arts groups. Rotating locations each week.

Main Street at 5 Points Park and Palm Ave. December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

Women’s New Moon Meditation – 6:30pm.

Doors close 7pm. Ordained in Thich Nhat Hanh’s order, Ruth Fishel Buddhist Mindfulness Practice, uses mindfulness techniques to gently observe the activity of the mind and return to center. Circle meets on the New and Full Moons. $10 donation to Rising Tide. 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Info, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414, JoMooy@gmail.com.

Healing Sound Bath: Crystal Bowls and Gongs – 7-8:30pm. Charmian Redwood will take participants into a very deep experience of peace and total release. Sound, as vibration, touches every part of our physical being, and is heard not only through

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our ears, but felt in every cell of our bodies. $15.

Elysian Fields, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

Reiki Share – 7-9pm. An Invitation to Reiki Practitioners - All Levels are most welcome! Join in the fun of giving and receiving healing. $5/Love Offering. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice.

Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 18th Annual Jingle & Jog – 7am Registration.

8am Race. Over 450 runners with jingle bells on their shoes will run in the 5K Run or 1 Mile Walk in support of Community Haven for Adults & Children with Disabilities. All participants will receive a race packet, a long sleeved race shirt, healthy food and door prizes. $25-$30. Community Haven Campus, 4405 Desoto Rd, Sarasota.

Info 941-355-8808 Ext 258 or CommunityHaven. org/event/jingle-jog.

Spirit of the Season – 10:30am-4pm. Arts & Crafts sale. Spirit Messages by Mediums. Crystal Bowls, Jewelry, Sculpture, Paintings, Typographical Art, Birdhouses, books & much more. Free admission. 852 S Tuttle Ave (Davis Hall), Sarasota.

941-953-6620. SarasotaCenterofLight.com.

Connect to Your Core – 12:30-2pm. Mat Pilates with a ball to connect you with your deepest stabilizing muscles to improve posture & core strength. $30/includes ball to take home for practice. Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness, 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-380-1206. RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com.

Reclaiming Lost Atlantis – 1-3pm. Journey to the lost Temple of Atlantis to reclaim your priest/ priestess self, receive light codes for Oneness and clear the cellular memory of trauma. $29. Heaven and Earth, 1316 Alt 19 N, Palm Harbor. 727-7244193. ComingHomeToLemuria.com.

The 20th Annual Sarasota Holiday Parade – 7pm. Thousands participate and attend; enjoy decorated floats, live marching bands and the guest of honor “rounding” out the parade, Santa Claus.

Parade route runs along Main St, Downtown Sarasota. December Sarasota Events on Escape-toSarasota.com.

Spirit of The Holidays Messages Party – 7-9pm.

Come celebrate the Spirit of the holidays! At our holiday gala all guests will receive heartwarming and validating information from a top psychic medium. Holiday Gala includes: Spirit Messages from 5 Top Psychic Mediums, Everyone receives a personal message, Dinner Buffet, Wine, Desserts, Gift Baskets Raffle, Music, Fun. Space is limited so be sure to reserve your place early. $55. Unity Church Fellowship Hall, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. 941-544-5874, Light@VictoriaAckerman.com, TheSpiritUniversity.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 ECK Worship Service – 10-11am. This month: “The Search for God”. Learn what is required of you and the steps you will need to take no matter what spiritual path you choose to lead you back home to God. Free. Charlotte County Cultural Center, Rm I, 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte. 941764-1797, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

Youth and Family Ministry Book Sale – Noon. Unity of Sarasota’s Youth & Family Ministry will be holding a Book Sale with proceeds utilized to support this ministry to benefit the children. Fellowship Hall Education Annex, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Open Heart Divine Healing Service – 12:15pm.

1st Sun each month. Through the gathering of the Faithful, experience and co-create the Anchoring of Powerful Divine Healing energies within the Sacred Circle. Expect Miracles! Rev Sharon Elizabeth James. Love offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

Powerful Group Healings – 7-9pm. Powerful shifts with internationally renowned shamanic healer Bart Smyth, a Master in the Yuen Method, Peru Medicine man of Shipibo tribe, Grand Master of Tai Chi, QiGong and certified in Thai & Hansa shiatsu, Reiki, Abayanga massage and neuromuscular movement. Clearing karma, depression and increasing manifestation connections for 2016. $20. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333, ccosl.com. For private healings, register AModernDayShaman.net.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 HAPPY HANUKKAH Mind, Body & Stretch Exercise Class – 9-10:15am. Relax your mind, burn calories, tone your muscles and gain flexibility. Simple relaxation techniques, low impact exercises and full body stretching to help improve balance, strength, core stability, coordination and flexibility. Suitable ages 18-50+, modifications will be provided for all ages and fitness levels. Wear sneakers, bring a set of 2-3lb weights, mat, towel and water. No weights, no problem. You can perform the exercises without them. Training with Deanna. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 4 classes/$54 or $15/drop-in. Info and registration, 631-944-0505, TrainingWithDee@gmail.com, TrainingWithDee.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Walk Prairie Creek Preserve – 8:30-11am. Walk with two Florida Master Naturalists, Jamie Reynolds and John Phillips, as we tour this protected area of scrub habitat. Free to the public. Donations to Sierra Club welcome. Prairie Creek Preserve.

941-637-7468. gchgroup.org/events.html.

Have You Had a Spiritual Experience? – 6-7 pm. Introductory discussion about spiritual experiences, past lives, dreams & Soul Travel. Gift of Spiritual Experiences Guidebook, with CD. Free.

Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave, Sarasota. 941358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

Stress Less, Tap More – 6-7:30pm. Dr Rocky Aker, chiropractor & Patty Seidensticker, yoga teacher/health coach will share tools on how to “adjust’ your thoughts on daily living. $15. Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness, 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-380-1206. RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com.

Find The Mastery Behind the Magic of the Season – 6:45pm. It Is Magical: Right Effort Equals the Right Result! Learn practical steps to spiritual fulfillment. Unleash your potential. Expertly taught

by Reverend Elizabeth Thompson, inspirational speaker. Love Offering. Fellowship Hall, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Qi Gong – 7-8pm. Qi Gong opens pathways in the body to circulate & stimulate the body’s internal processes to allow for the smooth flow of Qi (energy), which can increase strength and produce vitality. $20. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Dr Bill Philpott, 941-587-1288, RevPat@ AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Kayak Shell Creek – 9am-1pm. This pretty creek in Charlotte County is well worth visiting again and again. Your guide will be Naturalist Rick Fried, who lives on the creek. Free to the Public. Donations accepted by the Sierra Club. Shell Creek. 941-637-8805. gchgroup.org/events.html.

John of God, Film – 7pm. Fascinating award winning movie about John of God, amazing healer from Brazil, who has been healing people from all over the world with every kind of disease, physical, mental or spiritual. Presented by Michele Denise, an authorized tour guide to John of God. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 828-4231482. Michele@CrystalHealingBed.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 Walk Prairie Shell Creek – 8:30-11am. Join Florida Master Naturalists Jim Knoy and Jamie Reynolds as they lead you on an informative nature walk in this protected area of scrub habitat. Free to Public. Donations to Sierra Club accepted. Prairie Shell Creek Preserve. 303-868-8337. gchgroup. org/events.html.

Atlantis Rising Retreat – 10am-4pm. Group regression to the lost temple of Atlantis to reclaim priest self and receive light codes, sound bath with crystal bowls and gong, group healing. $70. 4037 Crockers Lake Blvd, #2026, Sarasota. 808-3449932. ComingHomeToLemuria.com.

Community Style Acupuncture in Nokomis – 1-3pm. Also 12/17. Experience the healing energy of acupuncture with Beach Life Wellness’ open acupuncture with weekly time slots for low-cost, gentle Japanese style acupuncture in a group setting. Communal acupuncture offers a uniquely co-created atmosphere of healing and retreat.

Lounge in a comfortable chair to receive a powerful treatment in a group space. Acupuncture has been shown to relieve the pain of musculoskeletal conditions, ease migraines, and assist in the treatment of emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and everyday stress. Allow Beach Life Wellness to create consistency in your care, disconnecting wealth from health with reasonablypriced acupuncture and regularly scheduled availability. $35/30 mins. 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis.

Space is limited, call now to reserve your time slot, 941-244-2006.

Family Yoga at Selby Gardens – 4-4:45pm. Jen Maecker 200RYT teaches yoga to children and adults throughout the Sarasota community, and has a certification to teach yoga to children with special needs. Inside location will be provided in case

of rain or high temperatures. Families should bring either yoga mats or towels. $15/ Member parent and up to 2 children; $20/Non-member parent and up to 2 children. Selby Gardens, 900 S Palm Ave, Sarasota.

415-755-7167. JenMaeckerYoga@gmail.com. JenMaecker.com. Register in advance Selby.org.

Grinch Prevention: Creating a Season of the Heart – 7pm. Learn to reboot your holiday experiences. This meet and greet is led by Reverend Amy Zehe and Mary Ann Modrak. Love Offering.

Fellowship Hall Education Annex, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Atlantis Rising – 7-9pm. Charmian Redwood, author of Coming Home to Lemuria and A New Earth Rising, presents an enlightening discovery about the wonders of Atlantis. She will guide an experiential meditation into the Temple of Atlantis to reclaim ourselves as Priests and Priestesses of Atla Ra. $20. Elysian Fields, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Atlantis Rising Retreat – 10am-4pm. Reclaiming Holy Innocence, healing ceremony on beach for Mother Ocean, star origins of Atlanteans. Remembering the Atla Ra. Why have we returned? $70.

4037 Crockers Lake Blvd, #2026, Sarasota. 808344-9932. ComingHomeToLemuria.com.

Psychic Intuitive & Trance Channel Readings – 10:30am-5:30pm. Sherry Lord is a versatile channel who can assist you on your path. 15 mins/$40; 30 mins/$75; 60 mins/$125; Deep Trance Channel Sessions 50 mins/$175. Elysian Fields, Midtown Plaza, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. RSVP 941361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

Free Friday Qigong – 5-6pm. Also Dec 18. A practice that can positively impact your life-mentally, physically & spiritually. Qigong is an ancient art form that works to strengthen the body’s vital energy. All fitness levels welcome! No mat needed. Wear comfortable clothing, shoes optional.

Bring a friend. Janet Jones, facilitator. Outdoor setting, 10 Harbor Ln, Englewood. 941-468-4296, Jonesje1960@gmail.com.

Atlantis Rising – 7-9pm. Calling the Family of the One to repair the Atlantian grid with Charmian Redwood, author of Coming Home To Lemuria and A New Earth Rising. Cleansing and preparing the body vehicle to recreate the crystalline frequencies necessary for the ceremony on the beach. $20. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333, ccosl.com. CharmiAngel40@hotmail.com.

Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop – 7pm-Sun 2pm. Dec 11-13. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $695/couple. Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Atlantis Rising – 10am-2pm. Bringing forward the memories of Atlantis with group regression and initiation into the Atla Ra as Priest or Priestess. Restoring Holy Innocence with Charmian Redwood, Coming Home to Lemuria and A New Earth Rising. Bring lunch. $50. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg

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G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. CharmiAngel40@hotmail.com.

Community HU Song – 11am-Noon. For everyone of any background or belief. Singing ‘HU’, a love song to God, for 20 minutes can bring insight, peace, and calm into your life; followed by light refreshments. Free. Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice. 941-358-0325, Meetup. com/EckankarInSarasota.

Holiday Open House Celebration – 1-3pm. Come celebrate 2 years in business with Lucho & Lana De Vettori and the team at Beach Life Wellness, in their peaceful cottage near Nokomis Beach, offering a full menu of massage services, body wraps, organic facials, acupuncture and private personal training and nutrition advice. Experience Chair Massage, Thai Massage, the New Bellabaci contouring massage, organic oxygen & ultrasonic facial, meet the trainers, free BMIs, express fitness tests & more! Bring a friend, enjoy refreshments, complimentary treatments, fun free demos & mark a few things off your holiday shopping list with discounted holiday gift certificates! Free. 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis. 941244-2006. BeachLifeWellness.com.

Atlantis Rising on Siesta Key – 4-7pm. Ceremony to reactivate the Temple and the Generator crystals with Charmian Redwood, Coming Home to Lemuria and A New Earth Rising. $35. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

CharmiAngel40@hotmail.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Mystery School Training – 10am-4pm. We have all trained in the ancient temples and it is time to reclaim our gifts. You will learn clairaudience, clairvoyance, aura reading, channeling. $70. 4037 Crockers Lake Blvd, #2026, Sarasota. 808-3449932. ComingHomeToLemuria.com.

A Reiki Share – 6-7pm. For healing practitioners to participate in giving and receiving Reiki within an atmosphere of friendship and love. Align with your Spirit, feel more centered, release fear and stress, and experience connection. For anyone who is interested in finding wellbeing and creating harmonious changes in their life through personal healing, transformation, and awakening. All are welcome to come and receive a healing. With Dawn Freeman.

Free. The Spirit University, 373 Braden Ave, Sarasota. 941-544-5874, Light@VictoriaAckerman. com, TheSpiritUniversity.com.

Music of the Season & The 24th Annual Christmas Concert & Community Carol Sing – 7pm.

The First Church Singers present “Glad Tidings We Bring!” with brass, organ & percussion. Joining them will be Sarasota’s premier women’s ensemble, Belle Canto. Hear beautiful music of the season and join in singing your favorite carols. It’s a tradition! Free will offering. Parking available in Zenith garage. First United Methodist Church, 104 S Pineapple Ave, downtown Sarasota. December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

SUNDAY CELEBRATION – 7-8:20pm. Come together each month in community and joy to celebrate, be strengthened, be encouraged, and seek truth while continuing to learn and grow. Interesting, inspirational, and informative talks help stimulate thinking and introduce us to new ideas and knowledge of the world around us. Mediumship Messages (contact with those in the afterlife), Meditation, Music, Fellowship. The Spirit University, 373 Braden Ave, Sarasota. 941-544-5874, Light@ VictoriaAckerman.com, TheSpiritUniversity.com.

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John of God, Crystal Light Bed Session – Call or email to book your session with Michele Denise, authorized John of God guide. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 828-423-1482 Michele@ CrystalHealingBed.com.

Wordier Than Thou Storytellers Open Mic – 7pm. This unique open mic focuses on storytelling and fiction-no poetry or music. So come share your finest prose, or if you’re just in the mood for listening, catch some tales from our area’s wordsmiths. $5 Donation. Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota. 941-5455635, PeaCenter@gmail.com, Fogartyville.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18

Winter Showcase Concert – 7pm. Enjoy the Riverview High School Kiltie Band in a 90-minute performance of seasonal favorites. Donation: $5.

Riverview Performing Arts Center, One Ram Way, Sarasota. On the grounds of Riverview High School, off Proctor, just east of Rte 41. Info, December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

4th Annual Jingle 5k Run/Walk – 4pm Registration. 6pm Kids races. 7pm 5K Run/Walk. It’s a festive way to enjoy the season and tie jingle bells to your shoelaces, which they will supply, along with lighted flashers. There is holiday music along the course and live music at the finish plus a huge post-race party. Registration fees vary. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Info, December Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14

John of God, Crystal Light Bed Session – Call or email to book your session with Michele Denise, authorized John of God guide. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 828-423-1482 Michele@ CrystalHealingBed.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Master Share for Reiki III – 7-9pm. Masters of all lineages come together to share, expand, enhance and brush up on their Reiki. Wear comfortable clothes. $5 Suggested Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham 941-922-7839. Zan@Woman-Spirit.com. WomanSpirit.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Kayak Myrtle Creek – 9am-1pm. Join us as we paddle down Myrtle Creek through a freshwater jungle, with a visit to the Punta Gorda water supply dam and its waterfall. Free to Public. Donations accepted by Sierra Club. Myrtle Creek. 941637-8805. gchGroup.org/events.html.

Community Style Acupuncture in Nokomis – 1-3pm. Experience the healing energy of acupuncture with Beach Life Wellness’ open acupuncture with weekly time slots for low-cost, gentle Japanese style acupuncture in a group setting. Communal acupuncture offers a uniquely co-created atmosphere of healing and retreat. Lounge in a comfortable chair to receive a powerful treatment in a group space. Acupuncture has been shown to relieve the pain of musculoskeletal conditions, ease migraines, and assist in the treatment of emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and everyday stress. Allow Beach Life Wellness to create consistency in your care, disconnecting wealth from health with reasonably-priced acupuncture and regularly scheduled availability. $35/30 mins.

301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis. Space is limited, call now to reserve your time slot, 941-244-2006.

The Art of Intuitive Consciousness, Sending Blessings – 6:30-8pm. Learn incredible techniques of sending Blessings to loved ones using your intuitive consciousness. This event is led by fourth generation Brazilian Intuitive Healer Waldete Fioretti. Be the conduit of love. Sending blessings to loved ones with correct understanding can change their lives as well as your own.

Workshop includes experiential exercises for you to embrace, cultivate and explore giving blessings effectively in your daily life. Waldete offers private healing sessions, provides distance healing, and has conducted courses on The Art of Intuitive Consciousness for over 24 years. $30. Englewood.

941-525-6040. Waldete.com.

www.nasrq.com

Gong Meditation – 6-7pm. Hannah & Ed treat you to their relaxing gong vibrations to create peace & calm in your mind & body. Lay down and enjoy the sound! $15. Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness, 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. Patty 941-380-1206. RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com.

Séance – 7-9pm. A séance is a meeting where the group wish to communicate with Spirit. Join our Psychic/Spiritualist Medium from England in this exciting 2-hour workshop. Limited seating of 8 max. $25. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Pre-registration a must. Call Donna 561346-6296. AngelMinistriesfl.org.

Community Contra Dance – 7:30pm. Contra dancing is social interaction, meeting people and making new friends, set to live music. $8/Advance, $10/Door. Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota. 941-5455635, PeaCenter@gmail.com, Fogartyville.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 Intuitive Faire Readings and More – 11am4pm. A monthly event with Intuitive and Mediumistic Readings, Spirit Artist, Palmistry, Astrology and Numerology Reports. Something for everyone. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, ccosl.com.

Connect to Your Core – 12:30-2pm. Mat Pilates with a ball to connect you with your deepest stabilizing muscles to improve posture & core strength. $30/includes ball to take home for practice. Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness, 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-380-1206. RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com.

Kirtan with Cheryl Chaffee – 7-8:30pm. Join Cheryl Chaffee & friends for a fun evening of kirtan–call & response chanting. This uplifting practice requires no experience, just your voice. $10-$20/suggested donation. Venice Holistic Community Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice.

941-323-8033. VeniceHolisticCenter.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 Community HU Song – 10-11am. HU is an ancient name for God. When sung as a pure prayer of love, it opens your heart to God’s Love for you; 30 mins, followed by light refreshments. Free. AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota.

941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

Full Moon Winter Solstice – 4:30 pm. Ceremonial drumming, singing and meditation with Barbara Gail & Drumwise, a women’s drumming collective and The Venice Frame Drummers. On the longest night, candles will be lit to coincide with the setting sun. Men, women and well-behaved children welcome. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, flashlights and a donation for the Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program. Tax deductible checks payable to the Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program. South Lido Beach State Park. Info, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414, JoMooy@gmail.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 Walk in Deep Creek Preserve – 8:30-11am. Take an informative walk with Master Naturalists Jamie Reynolds and John Phillips through pine flatwoods, wetland marshes and hardwood hammocks. Free to Public. Voluntary donations accepted by Sierra Club. Deep Creek Preserve. 941-639-7468. gchgroup.org/events.html.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Kayak Shell Creek – 9am-2pm. Join us as we paddle one of the most scenic waterways in Charlotte County, guided by Master Naturalist Rick Fried. Provide your own watercraft. Free to Public.

Donations to Sierra Club gladly accepted. Shell Creek. 941-607-8805. gchgroup.org/events.html.

Winter Solstice Celebration and Ceremony – 7-9pm. Celebrating the longest night of the year, planting seeds of peace and goodwill to all, with Rev Sharon Elizabeth James. Love offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – 6pm. All are invited to join us for this special service filled with music, affirmative prayer, meditation, and candle lighting. The Sanctuary at Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS

Drumming Ceremony – 7-8:30pm. Get rid of those 2015 cobwebs and start your new year with great energy! Join Yvonne Graham in this evening of drumming and dancing to bring in energy and a focus for many good things in 2016. Please bring your own drum and your enthusiasm for a fun evening. $16 Donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. Info 941266-8435. cmfSarasota.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Burning Bowl Ceremony – 7pm All are invited to join us for this special service focused on letting go of what no longer positively serves you and helping you to set your intentions for your best year ever! The Sanctuary, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301 UnityOfSarasota.com.

New Year’s Eve Kirtan – 8pm-12:30am. New Year’s Eve, Kirtan style! Vegan potluck at 8pm, followed by an evening of devotional music to ring in good vibrations for the New Year. All ages. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota.

941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

New Year’s Eve Anchoring Light Special – 10pm. Bring in the New Year of 2016 as we build on the ever-increasing energies and intend to hold the Higher World Vision of our planet and cocreate New Golden Age of Light, with Rev Sharon Elizabeth James. Love offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

plan ahead FRIDAY, JANUARY 1, 2016 HAPPIEST NEW YEAR!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 Creating Scared Space Workshop – 11am-3pm.

Discover tools for creating and maintaining sacred space with local artist and energy practitioner Maggie Davenport. Create your own altar piece to take home, string and work with prayer beads, experience a Tibetan bowl tea circle and meditation, re-

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 HAPPY KWANZAA

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 ECK Worship Service – 10-11am. This month: “Living in the Holiness of the Moment”. Find out what it means for you to live in the holiness of the moment. Free. AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota. 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/ EckankarInSarasota.

Gentle Partner Yoga – 3-5pm. Share the healing power of yoga with your partner. Join Harmony & Rick Joyce for gentle yoga poses, breathing, and meditation. Beginners are welcome. $40/couple. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota.

941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30 Paddle & Lunch with Rick Fried – 9am-3pm.

Join us as we paddle the Lower Peace River Loop.

We’ll pass the Liverpool docks, then up to the NavA-Gator Restaurant. Outing is free, lunch is not.

Donations to Sierra Club welcome. Lower Peace River Loop. 941-637-8805. gchGroup.org/events.html.

ceive a personalized power symbol created just for you, and a 12-month journal of inspiration. $175/ includes all supplies, lunch and choice of gift certificate for 1 hr Energy Work session or a custom altar painting by Maggie. Whole Person Healing Center, 1435 S Osprey Ave, Ste 200, Sarasota.

941-400-8757. DavenportMaggie@yahoo.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 New Year’s Romance on the Piano – 4pm. Celebrate New Year’s beginning with soulful Classical Music. World-acclaimed piano virtuoso Eleonora Lvov, winner of many prestigious competitions, popular recording artist and teacher, plays romantic works by Chopin, Debussy, Ravel and Gershwin. Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St W, Bradenton. Call 941-358-0235.

Manateeuuf.org.

savethedate SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 NEW YEAR’S ROMANCE ON THE PIANO @ 4pm – Celebrate New Year’s beginning with soulful Classical Music.

World-acclaimed piano virtuoso Eleonora Lvov, winner of many prestigious competitions, popular recording artist and teacher, plays romantic works by Chopin, Debussy, Ravel and Gershwin. Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St W, Bradenton. 941-358-0235. Manateeuuf.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8 Women’s New Moon Meditation & 10th Anniversary – 6:30pm. Doors close 7pm. Begun in 2006 with 8 women, now numbering over 500, celebrating with a slide show of the 10 years, introduction of the original 8 members, and a meditation led by Patricia Cockerill called “Honoring the Goddess,” summoning the Divine Feminine across all religions & practices and acknowledging the goddess in each woman present. Circle meets on the New and Full Moons. $10 Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Info, Jo Mooy 941355-1414, JoMooy@gmail.com.

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Beyond Criminal Art Opening – 7pm. Featuring the work of Bruce Jackson, SUNY Distinguished Professor & James Agee Professor of American Culture at the University of Buffalo. Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota. 941-545-5635, PeaCenter@gmail.com, Fogartyville.org.

Celebrate the New Year with Your Beloved – 7pm-Sun 2pm. Jan 8-10. Couples vacation retreat & Tantra Workshop. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $695/couple. Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. More info, other dates, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10 New Year, New You! – 10am-4pm. A day of creating change through yoga, nutrition & cooking demos, six stages of change, tools for change. $75.

Radiant Soul Yoga & Wellness, 3512 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. Patty 941-380-1206. RadiantSoulYogaWellness.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14 Tom Nielson Sierra Club Benefit – 7pm. People for a New Society has proudly nominated Tom Neilson, EdD for the 2015 Nelson Mandela Award. Tom’s work has spanned decades and continents, sharing comprehensive and sobering interpretations of sociology and history with an easily digestible and entertaining format designed to inform and inspire Peace. $10/Advance, $15/ Door. Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota. 941-545-5635, PeaCenter@gmail.com, Fogartyville.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16 Enhancing Our Spiritual Life- 8:30am-4pm The Circle Of Spiritual Growth Presents a one day women’s retreat including workshops, energy healing, massage, lunch and guest speaker Reverend Donna Loflin. $30.00 before Jan 2, 2016 or $35.00 at the door. Lutheran Church in Venice, 790 Tamiami Trail. 603 - 296 - 7417 CIRCLEOFSPIRITUALGROWTH.ORG

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop – 7pmSun 2pm. Jan 29-31. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $695/couple. Siesta Key Beach. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 31 American Holistic Nurses Association Annual Conference – May 31-June 5. “Interconnectedness: The Soul of Holistic Nursing.” Attendees will learn about holistic nursing practice, education and research from various types of healthcare and nursing experts. Registration opens January 2016 with discounted Early Bird rates before February 15, 2016. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, Bonita Springs. Info & Registration, 800-278-2462, ahna. org/conference/registration.

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ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email publisher@nasrq.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please.

sunday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-4730135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Meet & Greet: Learn With Other Like-Minded Souls – 9-10am. Enrichment spiritual classes for adults. Free. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-9553301, UnityOfSarasota.com.

One from the Heart Healing Sessions – 9:3010:15am. Center of Spiritual Awareness healing practitioners offer 15-min sessions to bring a state of wholeness to body, mind, and spirit. Free. Fruitville Rd (Knights of Columbus Bldg), 941-926-7828.

Amrit Level 1 Yoga – 9:30-10:15am. Students are guided through Level 1 Amrit Yoga posture sequence into a deeper experience of integration. You will be guided into proper alignment for your body type through energetic extensions and pressure points. Working with the first and second half of the posture brings the nervous system into balance and body into homeostasis. Intentionally repeating this sequence is similar to chanting a mantra repeatedly, focusing the mind so that the body can relax fully.

All levels of students welcome. $15/1, $125/10, $57/unlimited-1x offer/new students only. Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda.

772-485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Discover Your Spiritual Home – 10am. With Rev Karen Wolfson. Center for Spiritual Living Sarasota, South Gate Community Center, 3145 S Gate Cir, Sarasota. 941-927-6212. CSLSarasota.com.

Hatha Yoga with Jamie Coffey – 10-11:30am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Mixed Levels Yoga with Cindy – 10-11:30am.

Alignment-based yoga suitable for anyone with previous yoga experience. Learn standing poses, twists, back bends, seated bends & inversions at your own pace. More options given for beginning or advanced students. $16; $78/6. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

A Cosmic New Thought Service – 10:30-11:30am.

A metaphysical universal service with music, talk, meditation and chants, to educate & expand our understanding and concepts to clarify and empower our connection with Infinite Spirit, Divine Source.

Free energy healings at 10am. Love offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham 941-922-7839, Zan@Woman-Spirit.com, CCOSL.com.

www.nasrq.com

FUNday at Unity of Sarasota – 10:30-11:30am.

Spiritual Seekers, all are welcome to join us each Sunday for a wonderful, uplifting service. Free.

Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.com.

Kai Dance Fitness – 10:30-11:30am. Blending authentic movement with fun, easy to learn choreographed steps designed to stimulate cardio, joy, fitness and more. It’s done barefoot to amazing music with fun people. $15/drop in; $100/7 classes; $100/1 month unlimited. Soul Studios, 3303 Bahia Vista, Sarasota. 941-928-8866. KaiMoves.com.

Sunday Worship Service – 10:30-11:30am. Start your week refreshed. Join CMF for a morning of inspiration, spiritual healing, inspirational talk, special music and spirit messages from guides and loved ones. Love Offering. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. 941266-8435, CMFSarasota.org.

Sunday AM Service – 10:30am-Noon. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual church messages and, after service, messages from Spirit with our Psychic/Mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org.

Aerial Yoga – 11:30am-12:45pm. With Mandy.

All levels. Begins with basic mat work & progresses to using a soft fabric yoga inversion swing. $15; $12/senior/student. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Cosmic In-Service – 12:15-1:30pm. Gathering of Lightworkers. A call to Planetary World Servers to anchor Light and work with our family of light to bridge Heaven and Earth. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Sharon Elizabeth James, 941371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Sunday PM Service – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual church messages and, after service, messages from Spirit with our Psychic/Mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org.

monday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

No Nonsense Nutrition – 9-10am. With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WSLR 96FM, wslr.org.

Mind, Body & Stretch – 9-10:15am. No class Dec 21. Give yourself the gift of health. Relaxation techniques, low impact exercises and full

body stretching to improve balance, strength, core stability, coordination and flexibility. Relax, burn calories, tone muscles and gain flexibility. 4 Classes $54; Drop-ins $15. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Info, Deanna, fitness instructor and trainer, 631-944-0505. TrainingWithDee@gmail.com.

Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 9:3010:45am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Alternative Health – 10-11am. Alt Mondays.

With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WMNF 88SFM. Call-in line 813-239-9663, wmnf.org.

Amrit Yoga Therapeutics – 10-11:30am. Over time, patterns of thinking and feeling are energetically and physically held in the body. Left unsolved, they can manifest as tension, agitation, health imbalances and other problems. Through this understanding and the use of yoga postures to free prana, the body mind complex can begin to heal and integrate itself. The focus of this class is learning to relax with forms of energy one would normally resist and recognizing that even the most intense, uncomfortable sensations lead back to stillness and calm. All levels of students welcome. $15/1, $125/10, special $57/unlimited-1x offer/ new students only. Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda. 772-485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Bryant – 11:15am12:45pm. Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility, and stamina. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com, LianaYoga.com.

Slow Flow Kripalu Yoga with Angelena Craig – 4-5:15pm. A gentle yet energetic approach to traditional yoga, suitable for beginners or the more advanced. First time student special $15/ first class, second one is free; $55/5 class packages. Circusoul Yoga Studio, 4141 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941822-9620, ANewAgingMovement.com.

Transitions Support Group – 5-6:30pm. A support group that helps cope with the reality of traumatic changes. Discover resources & chart strategies to achieve priority goals. Six sessions are recommended. Free. Transition Church, 2215 Sunset Dr, Ste E1, Bradenton. 941-739-7103. RevDCT@ Verizon.net.

Restorative Kai Class – 5:30-6:30pm. Dance based movement class designed to create more movement ease, relaxation, focus, and comfort in the body and mind. It’s done barefoot and a great class for those with movement inhibitions or those just getting back into movement. $15/drop in; $100/7 classes; $100/1 month unlimited. Soul Studios, 3303 Bahia Vista, Sarasota. 941-928-8866.

KaiMoves.com.

Mixed Levels Yoga with Randall – 5:30-7pm.

This alignment-based yoga class is geared toward students who have been practicing yoga for at least 6 months. Inversion options will be taught in this class to prepare you for headstands, handstands, and shoulderstands. Dropins welcome. $16; $78/6. Garden of the Heart

Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

941-341-9781.

Ongoing Class Feldenkrais – 5:45-6:45pm.

Awareness Through Movement® classes improve posture, balance, body awareness. Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. $15/class; $50/4 classes, Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, 941-587-4535, FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

The Amrit Method of Yoga Nidra – 6-7pm. Experience a guided meditation technique with the power to take you to the innermost, deepest levels of relaxation where your whole body and being is permeated by peace of mind and profound stillness.

Yoga Nidra takes you beyond the ordinary state of mind where the deepest level of healing and rejuvenation take place effortlessly. $15/1, $125/10, special $57/unlimited-1x offer/new students only.

Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda. 772-485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Evening Yoga Flow – 6-7:15pm. Join Lata in this evening slow flow vinyasa practice. Bring your focus to releasing stress and tension in the body and mind while opening the heart and freeing the spirit, slowing down from your busy day as we link breath and movement with grounding asana sequencing and longer held forward bends to relax and re-new. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Booty Beat! – 6:40pm & Friday 9:15am. Experience the fabulous feeling that dancing gives you, while reaping the benefits of strength and cardio.

This fabulous and super fun dance fitness class allows you to let loose and condition the entire body inside out! $10, Packages available, Fly Dance Fitness, 999 Cattleman Rd, Sarasota. 941-400-0020.

FlyDanceFitness.com.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month (20 word minimum). To place listing, submit online at nasrq.com. Or call 941-564-0885 ext. 306 for more information. Deadline is the 12th of the month.

EMPLOYMENT HIRING LMT FOR HIGH VOLUME CORPORATE MASSAGE in Sarasota area. Professional, non-smoking environment. Deep Tissue or Neuromuscular experience preferred. Competitive hourly pay. Contact Human Resources: 941-875-2723.

SERVICES ENLIGHTENED ELDERCARE. Enriching life for baby boomers and their families. At home expressive arts coaching. Holistic eldercare planning. Fee negotiable. 941-549-1317. enlightenedeldercare@gmail.com.

HOUSECLEANING. Enjoy your free time and let us do what we do best: Housecleaning to your healthy satisfaction. Call Paula for a free estimate. 941-320-4052.

Chakra Clearing & Alignment – Spiritual guidance from Rev Duffy Rutledge using the Crystal Bed from John of God. $25. Call for appointments.

941-926-7828.

Yoga Classes – Mon, Tues, Wed. A variety of styles. Ionie Body Mind Retreat/Raw Food Café, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Info 941-955-4599, Ionie.com.

tuesday

Joyful Mindful Meditation – 7-8pm. All are welcome to this meditation presented by Monk Bhante San. Learn to experience peace and happiness.

Love Offering. This event ends on December 21st.

Unity of Sarasota Enlightenment Center, 3023 Proctor Rd (yellow building). 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Self Love Yoga – 8:15am. Tuesday & Thursday.

Led by Love Yoga Instructor Jake Jones. Bring yoga mat or cushion. Love Exchange $10-$20.

Southgate Circle Park on Tuttle, park at 3205 Southgate Circle. Text 516-287-0242 for rainy day location. Info SacredLoveTemple.com.

Forgiveness Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Forgiveness in Aramaic is to cancel, untie or let loose.

It’s a tool for changing a reality in the mind. This is one of the core messages of Why is this Happening to Me Again? $10. Unity Church of Sarasota. 941776-7465, UnityOfSarasota.com.

Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Sai Maa Satsang & Blessing – 7-8:30pm. 1st Monday. A spiritual gathering, meditation & blessing to strengthen connection to self, truth & healing. Uses Sai Maa teachings & transformational healing. Free. Central Sarasota location. 941-4877077, Sai-Maa.com.

WSLR Peace & Justice Show – 9-10am. Tune in to 96.5 on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays of the month for The Peace and Justice Report. Submit any event announcements for the show to Info@wslr.org.

Anchoring the Light Meditation – 7:458:45pm. Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James channels anchoring the light meditation. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light. Every Monday since 2007. Love Offering.

The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Dance N Tone – 9:30-10:30am. A work out for your mind and body! One hour of low impact exercise and fun in an air-conditioned gym. Optional 1/2 hour of floor work afterwards. $5. Faith Church (corner of Beneva and 12th St), Sarasota. Info, Gail 941-586-3464.

Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:15am. A creative blend of styles that builds strength and increases flexibility. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Beginners Spanish Lessons – 10:30am-Noon.

Instructor Lisa Stuart has taught Spanish for more than 20 years in Florida public schools and adult education programs and currently owns a private tutoring business. Classes are fun, highly interactive and include lots of dialogue. $10. Starflower Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota. 941554-4292. Starflower.com.

Iyengar Yoga with Deborah Di Carlo – 6:308pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Hot Vinyasa Yoga – 11am-12:15pm. Combines upbeat music, interesting transitions, & fulfilling vinyasas to begin the week. Betsy is experienced & continues to grow & evolve this beautiful practice. $15, Class cards available. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Intro to Buddhist Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Intro to meditation (6 varieties) from an authentic Tibetan Buddhist perspective, along with chats about Buddhist philosophy. $45/6 classes. Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Rd. 941-552-8466. Saratara@gmail.com.

Chair Yoga – Noon-1pm. Tues & Thurs. With Carol. Perfect for those that struggle with flexibility or balance demands of a traditional yoga class. Benefits of asana, pranayama, & short meditation. $15, $12/Senior. Reflex Arts, 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Zen Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Tues & Thurs. Led by spiritual director, Rev Daito Zenei Thompson.

Consists of two 20-min meditations, separated by a 5-min walking meditation. Ends with tea & conversation. Free. Sarasota Zen Center, 3947 Clark Rd, Ste A, Sarasota. 941-451-6988. SarasotaZen.org.

Automatic Writing Class – 5:30-6:45pm. Melissa Parks helps students connect to loved ones and guides. $15. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota.

941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

wednesday

Advanced Practice – 5:30-7:15pm. Tuesday nights are a teacher-led practice where strong yogis can come to learn advanced sequences and poses.

Knowledge of alignment is expected. Led by Jaye Martin or Cheryl Chaffee alternate weeks. Advanced students from other styles are welcome. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

The Essentials Yoga Class – 5:45-7pm. An active class appropriate for most levels, focusing on essential yoga postures to improve one’s skeletal alignment, balance, flexibility & strength. Learn to release stress & enhance breathing. $14; $80/8.

Yoga Arts, Bradenton. 941-747-9397.

Open Practice – 5:45-7:15pm. Yogis of all levels are invited to attend this “Led Practice” class where the teachers practice with you. Learn how to prep for challenging poses. Led by Cheryl Chaffee & Jaye Martin. It is expected that you already know safe alignment and technique. $16. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota.

941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Yoga Nidra and Sound Healing – 6-7pm. First Tuesday monthly. A time to relax, restore and renew. A deep guided meditation that will take you into the deepest levels of relaxation. Through the use of guided imagery, breath awareness and the healing sounds of the Crystal Bowls, Yoga Nidra will help to alleviate not only muscular tensions, but also mental & emotional stress, healing the body, mind & spirit, bringing you into balance, harmony and peace. Open to all ages. Bring your favorite blanket and pillow. $18. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Must Preregister, 941-473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Yin/Restorative and Sound Healing – 6-7:15pm.

A gentle yin practice with the crystal healing bowls. Relax and surrender into sensations and unlock deep rooted tensions in the body, quite the busy mind as you allow every cell of your bod y to be bathed in sound healing and vibration. A Spiritual Uplift for body, mind and soul! Englewood Yoga Center/Loving Light Yoga. Must pre-register, 941-473-0135, LovingLightYoga.com.

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Early Morning Yoga with Jaye – 6-7:30am.

Alignment-based yoga class geared toward students who have been practicing yoga for at least 6 months. Greet the day with yoga. $16; $78/6. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Self Love Yoga – 8:30am. Led by Love Yoga Instructor Jake Jones. BYO cushion or yoga mat.

Sliding Scale Love Offering $10-$20. Southgate Circle Park on Tuttle (park at 3205 Southgate Cir & look for Self Love Yoga banners), Sarasota. Call 516-287-0242, Details SacredLoveTemple.com.

Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Morning Motivation Outdoor Flow Exercise Class – 8:30-9:30am. Classes start 12/9. No class 12/23. Start your morning off with a little movement, nature and inspiration to get your mind and body motivated for the day ahead. This outdoor class will allow us to breathe in the nature and beauty around us while we combine flexibility and flowing exercises that will energize your body. Suitable ages 18-50+. (Please note: this is not a yoga class.) Wear sneakers and bring a mat, towel and water. Wear layered clothes to accommodate body temperature changes. Class held indoors if inclement weather. Training with Deanna.

4 classes/$40 or $12/drop-in. Colonial Oaks Park, Main Deck, 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd, Sarasota. 4 classes/$40 or $12 drop-in. Info and registration, 631-944-0505, TrainingWithDee@gmail.com, TrainingWithDee.com.

Chair Yoga in Salt Room – 9:30-10:30am. Experience the health benefits of gentle yoga combined with the health benefits of working with the breath during dry salt therapy. $20; Pkgs available; Sr discount; 1st time Free. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-921-7900, FusionTherapy.net.

Kai Dance Fitness – 9:30-10:30am. Blending authentic movement with fun, easy to learn choreographed steps designed to stimulate cardio, joy,

www.nasrq.com

fitness and more. It’s done barefoot to amazing music with fun people. $15/drop in; $100/7 classes; $100/1 month unlimited. Soul Studios, 3303 Bahia Vista, Sarasota. 941-928-8866. KaiMoves.com.

Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga – 10-11:15am.

This class combines therapeutic movement & restorative postures. Suited for people unable to practice yoga in its more active form. Movements are gentle & well-supported. $14; $80/8. Yoga Arts, Bradenton. 941-747-9397.

Mind, Body & Stretch Exercise Class – 1011:15am. Classes start 12/9. No class 12/23. Relax your mind, burn calories, tone your muscles and gain flexibility with trainer Deanna. 75-minute class combines simple relaxation techniques, low impact exercises and full body stretching to help improve balance, strength, core stability, coordination and flexibility. Suitable ages 18-50+, modifications provided for all ages/fitness levels.

Wear sneakers and bring mat, towel, water and 2-3 weights if available. 4 classes/$54 or $15/drop-in.

Colonial Oaks Park, Rm B, 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd, Sarasota. Info and registration, 631-9440505. TrainingWithDee@gmail.com, TrainingWithDee.com.

Five Points Park Farmers Market – 10am-2pm.

Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, and try a sample. First St & N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com.

Tai Chi Dance/Baby Dragon – 10:30-11:30am.

This is an internal dance of breath and balance focusing on brain waves and connections found in the ultimate movements of the Baby Dragon Dance, with Master Teacher, Cody, Flying Eagle, Templeton. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota.

941-371-9333, CCOSL.com. Info & Register, 941780-3168, EagleWings64@hotmail.com, MindBodyFitnessForYou.com.

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K – 10:45-11:45am.

Awareness Through Movement® classes improve posture, balance, and body awareness. Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. $15/class; $50/4 classes, Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, 941-587-4535, FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

Core Tone-Up – 11:15am-12:30pm. A therapeutic flow of yoga and Pilates taught by a certified teacher in both. Beg-Int levels. Develop strong posture, healthy spine & joints, pelvic stability, balance, respiration, and all of yoga’s other benefits. $15; $10/10. Alive with Yoga, 7512 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, 941-302-1004, AlivewithYoga.com.

Vinyasa Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 11:30am12:45pm. A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14, $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga – 3pm. A gentle yoga class on stand up paddleboards in a beautiful lagoon. Great for beginners. $35/includes board rental. 190 Taft Dr, Lido Key, Sarasota. Info & sign-up, 941-952-8245, Info@SurfItusa.com, SurfItusa.com.

Free Yoga for Veterans/Military – 3:30-4:30pm.

Veterans, military personnel and their family members can attend a free weekly yoga class designed for vets with PTSD, TBI and other combat injuries. Free, Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941-341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Free Healing Clinic – 4-6:30pm. Our Masters tap into the Divine Source of energy to balance and heal your being. Relax and enjoy this renewing and enlightening experience. Love Donation Appreciated. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice.

Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org.

Tea with the Goddesses – 4:30-6:30pm. The Goddess Love Circle of Sarasota meet-up with other amazing Goddesses. Relax, chat, share wisdom, receive support from others and hold space for mind, body, heart and soul healing. Elixir Tea Shop, 1926 Hillview St, Sarasota, Text RSVP 516-287-0242.

Sunlight Yoga – 5:45-7pm. With Debbie Downing. Gentle flowing hatha yoga. Range of motion, balance, breath awareness, asanas, relaxation.

Mixed level. The Power of One, 238 W Tampa Ave, Venice Centre Mall/KMI Bldg, Ste 250, 941468-0403, SunlightYoga@Verizon.net.

Intro to Hoop Dance Class – 6-7pm. Learn the basics of the art of Hoop Dance in this 4-week series that begins each month. Have fun, dance, meet new friends and burn calories. $40/month series.

Prana Yoga Studio, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota.

Bonnie Brown 941-404-8114. OutwardSpiral.net.

Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 6-7pm. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net.

All Levels Flow Yoga – 6-7:15pm. With Ginny. Healing yoga class, afterwards, take a walk through gardens, visit the chickens & relax. $15; $12/Senior/Student. Heartwood Retreat Center.

941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Pregnancy Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Experience the benefits of pregnancy yoga for improved posture, strength, flexibility, endurance, breathing & relaxation. Appropriate for all levels. $15; $50/5. Prana Yoga, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-1898.

LeBarre – 6:40pm & Tues 9:15am. Taking the hottest trend in dance-inspired conditioning, people LeLove LeBarre! Combines balance, agility, resistance, recovery and eloquence into a challenging full body workout. Unlike any barre class you’ve seen! All levels welcome. $10; Packages available, Fly Dance Fitness, 999 Cattleman Rd, Sarasota, 941-400-0020, FlyDanceFitness.com.

Chair Yoga in Salt Room – 7-8pm. Experience the health benefits of gentle yoga, combined with the health benefits of working with the breath during dry salt therapy. $20; Packages available; Sr discount. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-921-7900. FusionTherapy.net.

Meditation Study Group – 7-8:30pm. Introduction of the various philosophies of meditation followed by a study of different kinds of practices throughout history. We will discover what meditative practices are most appropriate today

and for those interested in spiritual development.

Free. Starflower Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota. 941-554-4292. Starflower.com.

Numerology Classes – 7-8:30pm. Learn to manage your life with numerology, with Kathy Skeen. $30. Rejuvenations Center, 2610 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-554-8657. RejuvenationsOfSarasota@gmail.com.

Helping Parents Heal – 7-9pm. 2nd Weds monthly. Providing support and resources for parents who have experienced the death of a child.

Spiritual group, discuss after death communications, dreams, visits. $5 Love Donation. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. Mark 740-7019793, Mark@SoulProof.com. Bob 585-857-2719.

Sarasota Contact Improv Jam – 7-9pm. 2nd & 4th Weds. Contact improv dance class. Love offering. Ionie Body Mind Retreat/Raw Food Café, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941-320-8144. Ionie.com.

The Keys of Enoch Study Group – 7-9pm. 1st and 3rd Weds. Known also as The Book of Knowledge, this is the study of the “code-book” or blueprint for spiritual consciousness with the reality of Divine Intelligence. KeysOfEnoch.com. Written by Dr J J Hurtak. Facilitated by Kim Converse. $7. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

Midweek Prayer and Meditation Service – 7:208:30pm. Midweek relaxing respite which includes meditation, affirmative prayer, music, candle lighting, and silence. Free. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota.

941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.com.

Restorative Yoga & Meditation – 7:30-8:45pm.

All levels welcome. Focuses on postures that relax the body & allow the mind to rest. Guided meditation & Reiki healing make this a great place to find rejuvenation. $15; Class cards available. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642.

ReflexArts.com.

thursday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Hatha Yoga – 9-10am. For a Life in Balance. A gentle, transforming practice with Pauline Dimitri. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333, CCOSL.com.

Englewood Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, and try a sample. Historic Dearborn St, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com.

Mom + Baby Yoga with Liana – 10-10:45am. In this playful practice, moms rebuild core strength and relieve neck and shoulder tension while bonding with their little ones, and create lasting relationships with other moms. $14; $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Qi Gong Classes – 10-11am. Join Dr J in a weekly ancient meditative martial art class that has the potential to expand your body, mind and spirit. Using breathwork, physical poses and meditation, this hour-long session will leave you feeling better than when you walked in. Free/1st class. $12/Drop-in, Packages available. Sarasota Healing Arts, 1810 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota. 941-487-7311.

Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Bryant – 11:15am12:30pm. Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility and stamina. $14; $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Tai Chi as a Spiritual Practice – 2-3pm. Join master teacher and author Caroline Demoise and experience the wonderful benefits of the meditative practice of tai chi that helps retain health with vitality while creating relaxation. All ages welcome. $10; $40/5. Fellowship Hall, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Amrit Yoga Therapeutics – 6-7:30pm. Over time, patterns of thinking and feeling are energetically and physically held in the body. Left unsolved, they can manifest as tension, agitation, health imbalances and other problems. Through the use of yoga postures to free prana, the body mind complex can begin to heal and integrate itself. The focus of this class is learning to relax with forms of energy one would normally resist and recognizing that even the most intense, uncomfortable sensations lead back to stillness and calm. All levels of students welcome. $15/1, $125/10, special $57/ unlimited-1x offer/new students only. Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda. 772485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Vinyasa Yoga with Ildi Bercak – 6:30-7:45pm.

A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14, $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Healing & Messages – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual messages with our Psychic/Mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org.

Pet Grief Support Group – 7pm. 3rd Thursday.

For understanding, support & sharing pictures & stories of your special friend. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota. 941-955-3301.

Prenatal Yoga – 7-8:30pm. Join certified prenatal yoga teacher and labor and delivery nurse Maureen “Mo” Gillum for a prenatal class like no other. Learn from an expert how to prepare for a healthy delivery and feel great during all trimesters using the practice of yoga. $16. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Mapquesting for Your Spiritual Journey – 7-8:30pm. 2nd Thursday. Guided by Reverend Amy Zehe and Mary Ann Modrak. Join a lively discussion designed to assist you on your individual spiritual path. Love Offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift). UnityOfSarasota.com.

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Mediumship Training: Connecting with the Spirit World – 7-8:30pm. Do you have psychic abilities or see and sense spirits? If you would like to learn how to develop your mediumship ability, this class is a perfect place to get started. Victoria Ackerman teaches you how to unlock your abilities and provides the key for learning. $10 per class.

The Spirit University, 373 Braden Ave, Sarasota.

941-544-5874, Light@VictoriaAckerman.com, TheSpiritUniversity.com.

The Law of Attraction – 7-9pm. Part of the Spiritual Evolution series, ending on Dec 17. Teachings are based on the principles and processes of the Law of Attraction (cause/effect; sow/ reap) with an emphasis on the works of Abraham-Hicks’ Ask and It Is Given, and other notable sages past and present, with Rev Zan Benham. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. CCOSL.com.

friday Sarasota Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Come early for good parking & pick of the best produce & products from the market’s 70+ vendors. Downtown Sarasota, intersection of Lemon & Main St, 941-225-9256. SarasotaFarmersMarket.org.

Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Kundalini Yoga with Dev Atma – 8:30-9:45am.

Classes includes gentle warm ups, a yoga set of postures, movements, breathing techniques, and relaxation, followed by meditation utilizing mantra, breath, and often times the healing vibration of the Gong. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com.

Downtown Bradenton Farmers’ Market – 9am2pm. Each Sat, the market features a special activity including guest chefs, raffles, arts & crafts vendors & children’s activities. Old Main St, Downtown parking/free on weekends. Dogs on leashes are welcome. 941-744-7484.

Essentials for Healthy Backs – 9:15-10:30am.

Therapeutic Yoga emphasizing alignment, core, breath, and specific poses to relieve common back conditions. $15; $10/10. Alive with Yoga, 7512 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Paula Morris, 941-923-5621, MrrisHaven@aol.com, AliveWithYoga.com.

Chair Yoga in Salt Room – 9:30-10:30am. Experience the health benefits of gentle yoga combined with the health benefits of working with the breath during dry salt therapy. $20; Pkgs available; Sr discount; 1st time Free. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-921-7900, FusionTherapy.net.

Amrit Gentle Yoga Class – 10-11am. This gentle Amrit Yoga practice is designed to guide you into deeper levels of body awareness. Through breath you learn to release limitations felt in your body and keep the mind present in the experience. You will be guided into your body’s energetic extensions and press points present within each posture.

By working with press points and extensions the body naturally is held into the pose without force

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or strain, allowing you to find your full expression in the posture, opening the energy channels in your body to release trapped energy and tensions, effortlessly bringing you back into harmony. $15/1, $125/10, special $57/unlimited-1x offer/ new students only. Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda. 772-485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Flow Yoga – 10-11:15am. Sun Salutations to warm the body & move into a series of standing poses.

Practice balance, core stability & breathe awareness. $15, $88/8. Prana Yoga. 941-735-0344.

Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:15am.

A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Book Study & Discussion – 10am-Noon. An ongoing book study group encouraging discussion & group interaction. $10. Unity of Sarasota. 941-9553301. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Mindfulness and More – 1-2:30pm. Alive With Yoga, 7513 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Charlie Bradt 941-922-5205.

Amrit Yoga Nidra Class – 6-7pm. The Amrit Method of Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation technique, accessible to everyone. It has the power to take you to the innermost, deepest levels of relaxation where your whole body and being is permeated by peace of mind and profound stillness. Yoga Nidra takes you beyond the ordinary state of mind where the deepest level of healing and rejuvenation take place effortlessly. $15/1, $125/10, special $57/unlimited-1x offer/new students only. Journey Into Complete Wellbeing Yoga & Meditation Studio, 265 E Marion Ave, Ste 117C, Punta Gorda.

772-485-0605. JourneyInStudio.com.

Reiki Share – 7-9pm. 2nd Friday. Interested in practicing, receiving or just want to learn more about Reiki? Come and participate in group healing, with guided meditation beginning the evening, followed by Reiki transference. Massage tables are set up and everyone takes turns giving and receiving Reiki, sharing their month’s experiences and discussing the art of healing to enhance their gifts.

Donation/Goes to a different charity each month.

ReFlex Arts, Heartwood Retreat Center, 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642, Contact@ReFlexArts.com, ReFlexArts.com.

Chronic Illness Support Group – 7-9pm. 4th Friday. For women living with chronic illnesses in Sarasota. Free. Lido Key, Sarasota. 802-373-8779, ChronicWellnessNurse.com/events.html.

saturday Sarasota Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, and try a sample. Main St & Lemon Ave, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com.

Central Sarasota Year-Round Farmers’ Market – 8am-1pm, rain or shine. Every agriculture vendor at the market (fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, etc.) is a grower or farmer, not just a reseller. The Florida House, 4454 S Beneva Rd, Sarasota. CentralSarasotaFamersMarket.com.

www.nasrq.com

Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Align and Flow Yoga with Jen Maecker – 9-10:15am. A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence, with an extra focus on alignment. $14, $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga – 10am. A gentle yoga class on stand up paddleboards in a beautiful lagoon. Great for beginners. $35/includes board rental. 190 Taft Dr, Lido Key, Sarasota. Info & sign-up, 941-952-8245, Info@SurfItusa.com, SurfItusa.com.

Learning How to Connect With Your Dearly Departed – 10-11am. 1st and 4th Sat. Meet with others who share a special bond in the loss of a loved one & learn the unique perspective of what happens to them when they pass by noted Mediums Revs Mary Linn and Thomas Clarke. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, ccosl.com.

Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. 2nd & 4th Sat. Are you searching, questioning and seeking answers? Choose from some of the best Intuitive Artists in the Area! See what your future holds! Complimentary refreshments. Private Readings $1/Min. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice.

Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org.

Wild Ginger Apothecary – 10am-6pm. Now open in Gulf Gate, featuring non-toxic and eco-friendly health + beauty items for the entire family. 6557 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-5630. WildGingerApothecary@gmail.com, WildGingerApothecary.com.

Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 10:3011:45am. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net.

Iyengar Yoga with Deborah Di Carlo – 11am12:30pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

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

ACUPUNCTURE/ CHINESE MEDICINE CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR

Board Certified Acupuncture Physician The Integrated Path, P.A. 3148 Southgate Ci, Sarasota 941-924-8833

The Integrated Path to Health and Wellness for the whole family utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Bio-Meridian Computerized Scanning, Bio-Cleanse Detoxification, Energetic Medicine, Clinical Nutrition.

THE SPIRIT UNIVERSITY

373 Braden Ave, Sarasota 941-888-4246 • www.TheSpiritUniversity.com Classes and Events: enriching and educational experiences for your personal transformation. Interact with like-minded individuals and learn from industry experts. Meditation, Energy Healing, Psychic Skills. Beginner to expert – all are welcome.

Combining integrative technology and techniques to bring you Dynamic results see www.wealthofhealthcenter.com Acupuncture, NES, Zyto, Homeopathy, Scalar

ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT FACES BY DR ANNA

Anna L. Baker, D.O.M. Nationally Board Certified Acupuncture Physician 941-924-2723 FacesByDrAnna.com

Unique muscle-tightening acupuncture facelift and necklift done with 12 hair-thin needles, none of which are on the face. Results documented photographically. Only one maintenance treatment needed every 18 months.

Free consultation includes facial analysis. Monthly seminars, call for schedule.

ADULT EDUCATION THE OPEN CENTER

Bob Waxman, Ph.D. Author & Educator 3023 Proctor Rd. at Unity of Sarasota 941-724-5151 • OpenCenter@comcast.net OpenCenterFL.com (see 2014 Events)

Come and enjoy uplifting classes, events and films that explore spirituality, wellness & personal growth. Expand your mind and nourish your spirit! Many events by donation. Newcomers welcome! Also, seeking teachers with experience & credentials.

COLON THERAPY CLINIC

Alain Menard • Allaesia Menard 7733 Holiday Ave. • Sarasota, Fl 34231 941-922-7744 ColonTherapyClinic.com

Cleansing for digestive disorders.

Licensed 42 years. Developed gentle technique. Foot bath and ear candling.

ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER SARASOTA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

COUNSELING

Anne Luther, DVM 3646 Birky St., Sarasota 34232 941-954-4771 • SRQVet.com

Dr. Anne Luther has over 25 years experience in conventional medicine and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy.

“We treat your pet like our own!”

DR. PAULA KOGER BSN.MA AP OMD Home office in Sarasota, Florida call 941 539 4232 www.wealthofhealthcenter.com

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

AROMATHERAPY YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS

Alina Piccone & Robert Ridpath, ICA 813-644-9104 AlinaPiccone@me.com YLEOSarasota.com • WeOwnOurLife.com

Young Living is the world leader in therapeutic essential oils. Contact us for details about hosting your own workshop or to attend an upcoming class!

BOOKSTORE/GIFT SHOPS BRIGHT LIFE

2135 Siesta Drive, Sarasota 941-366-8113 www.BrightLife-USA.com

Bright Life, an award winning boutique specializing in innovative products that accelerate personal growth and transformation. Offering includes energy based healing products which utilize color, sound, fragrance, and the signatures of flowers, crystals & gemstones, monthly workshops, Aura-Soma & Classical Feng Shui consultations & training. Tue & Wed 10am-6pm, Thur & Fri (by appointment), Sat 10am-4pm, closed Sun & Mon.

ELYSIAN FIELDS

1273 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-361-3006 ElysianFieldsOnline.com

Books and gifts for conscious living. Award-winning store! Jewelry, incense, clothing, candles, greeting cards and more. Private readings daily. Classes and events. M-Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5.

SARASOTA PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES

Eva Macaluso, MA, LMHC, BCC 941-363-1039 info@anxietytx.com

Holistic treatment approaches integrating Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Energy Psychology and Mindfulness. Working with the mind and body to alleviate symptoms and learn new ways of approaching life with a greater sense of calmness and less anxiety.

CHIROPRACTORS

MAINSTAY CHIROPRACTIC Drs. Jill and Beau Smith 717 Honore Avenue, Sarasota (941) 342-1291 www.mainstaychiropractic.com Email: www.mainstaychiro.com

Mainstay Chiropractic offers the latest 21st century chiropractic techniques and diagnostic approaches. See how contemporary neurologically based chiropractic care can help you and your specific health problem. Immediate openings. Since Drs. Smith are new in town and in the process of establishing their practice, you can probably be seen the same day you call. Call now to begin the healing process!

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY ADVANCED CRANIOSACRAL WHOLE BODY THERAPY Terry Grywinksi, LMT MA6049 San Marco 205D, 1188 N Tamiami Tr, Sarasota • 941-755-3437 AdvancedCranioSacralHealing.com

Gifted healer Terry Grywinski with 19 years experience and advanced craniosacral training provides rapid relief from injury, pain, and muscle restrictions. Great success with auto/ sports injury, sciatic, neck and back pain, TMJ, migraines.

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FENG SHUI

CRYSTALS

BRIGHT LIFE AKA FENG SHUI SARASOTA

THE CRYSTAL CAVE

1899B Fruitville Rd., Sarasota 941-346-6203 CrystalCave.me

Sellers of stones, crystals, mineral specimens, fossils, jewelry, books, gifts, etc. Susan has over 25 years experience working with crystals and stones.

DENTISTRY FLORIDA INTEGRATIVE DENTISTRY

Integrative Dentistry. Hollistic and Biological Dentist. Ceramic Dental Implants.

Carlo Litano 2415 University Parkway #215, Sarasota 941-893-5968 www.floridaintegrativedentistry.com

Similar to holistic dentistry, we take into account a person’s entire state of health. We routinely have patients who are interested in having their dental restorations be the most biologically compatible.

We provide ceramic dental implants.

Kathy Keh, Classical Feng Shui Consultant 2135 Siesta Drive, Sarasota 941-366-8113 www.BrightLife-USA.com

Kathy Keh is a Classical Feng Shui Consultant who specializes in commercial and residential properties, existing and new construction. She also offers Advanced Feng Shui Consultation Certification Training on behalf of the Wu Ji Academy, Europe’s premier teaching institution for Classical Feng Shui Consultants formally recognized by the Chinese Institute of Classical Feng Shui in Beijing, China.

THE FENG SHUI CURE

Steve Kodad, CFSP, CFSRE 941-720-4480 www.TheFengShuiCure.com

Transform any environment into one that encourages success, good health, and great peace. Visit www.TheFengShuiCure.com for information on evaluations, seminars, and training in SW Florida.

RAY BEHM DDS

127 N Garden Ave. Clearwater, FL SaveYourTeeth.com 727-446-6747

Save your teeth with safe natural holistic dentistry. We offer general dental services such as cleanings, checkups and emergencies. Safe appropriate amalgam removal. Metal-free crowns, bridges and dentures.Non-surgical gum treatment. Holistic extractions.

FOOTBATH MASSAGE & SPA

ROYAL BUSINESS CONSULTING, LLC Enjoy the best of Asian health culture Care for feet - health control center 2312 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota 941-203-5289

Feeling exhausted and stressed? Enjoy the Finest authentic and professional care for your feet and body. Call 941203-5289 for an appointment. All major credit cards accepted

FELDENKRAIS METHOD® FELDENKRAIS® METHOD

Classes, Individual Lessons and Workshops.

Bonnie Kissam, M.A. At Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota 941-360-2248 Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

GYMNASTICS

Movement with attention is the Feldenkrais Method®’s approach to improve posture and create more harmonious, efficient ways of moving. Through heightened awareness to the flow of movement, clients optimize their musical, athletic or natural everyday movements, and improve abilities after an injury, illness or trauma. Benefits go beyond the physical. Visit: FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

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EURORHYTHMICGYMNASTICS

6050 Longwood Run Blvd, Sarasota 941-212-9166 EuroRhythmicGymnastics.com

The beauty of the Rhythmic Gymnastics is coming to the area! A sport that blends the strength of gymnastics, the grace of ballet and the creativity of dance, combined with the use of Ribbons, balls, ropes and clubs. Available for Girls all ages Opens August 18 at Longwood Community Center Classes coached from former Olympic level gymnast for Artistic Gymnastics and former College Champion of Rhythmic Gymnastics Rossy Mihaylova.

www.nasrq.com

HEALTH CARE / MASSAGE ZUNZUN MASSAGE AND HEALTHCARE

Phillip &Tamayo Shope LMTs 2975 Bee Ridge Rd, A-#5, Sarasota MA66926 &MA59620 & MM28165 941-400-8291 www.zunzunmassage.abmp.com

HOLISTIC VETERINARIAN BEAR CREEK VETERINARY ALTERNATIVES 7509 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota 941-312-6825 BearCreekSarasota.com

Jaime Gonzalez DVM, CVA, is coowner of this specialty practice. He is a holistic care expert and his approach to veterinary care combines 22 years of conventional, emergency medicine and alternative modalities.

EQUINE SUPPLEMENTS WELLPRIDE

727 Commerce Dr, Venice, FL 34242 866-840-4811 Wellpride.com

Wellpride Omega-3 fish oil (EPADHA) for horses. Immune System • Respiratory Protection • Greater Endurance • Joint Flexibility • Better Fertility • Muscle Recovery • Hoof Integrity • Stomach Protection • Coat Sheen.

HAIR LOSS HAIRCLINIC OF SARASOTA

An-Tech Research Laboratory 941 266-4402 Hairloss-Scalp-NaturalTreatments.com

Are you losing your hair? Do you have an itchy scalp? Does your hair look dull and unhealthy? We solve your hair and scalp problems naturally. Please call for a free consultation.

HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS OMEGA3 INNOVATIONS

727 Commerce Dr, Venice, FL 34242 866-840-4811 Omega3Innovations.com

MA39216 Sarasota Office & House Calls 970-389-4019 tonyalaughlin@yahoo.com

JIN SHIN JYUTSU® Michelle Giambra, Certified Practitioner at Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave 941-228-2972 SuncoastJSJ.com

Michelle shares this ancient, hands-on art of balancing life energy in the body with individuals addressing acute, chronic and serious health projects along with those interested in maintaining wellness. MA42460

JUICE BAR

At CROP, we hand craft our juices daily by using the highest ORGANIC JUICE BAR & CAFE quality organic vegetables, mix the appropriate amounts of organic fruits for a burst of flavor, and package our juice in glass to ensure the freshest, highest quality juice available anywhere. We invite you to try a CROP juice today and compare the ingredients on our label to any other juice on the market. You will then understand why we believe no other juice even comes close.

Valerie Clows 713 Honore Ave, Sarasota, 941-378-4367 5770 Ranch Lake Blvd, East Bradenton, 753-7297 • HolisticForPets.com

Specializing in Hypo-allergenic Foods, Frozen Natural Raw Foods, Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies, Detergent & Soap Free Shampoo, Natural Flee Preventatives Skin Care Products, Healthy treats, Toys and gifts.

NUTRITION

MEDICAL SPA/ MASSAGE THERAPY

LICENSED NUTRITION COUNSELOR

C’S MEDI SPA

Clara Diaz 2726 Tamiami Trl, Unit C, Port Charlotte 941-249-8160 • www.csmedispa.com

Clara Diaz, the heart and soul behind C’s Medi Spa, is a Licensed Paramedical Aesthetician with a passion for helping others. Specializing in Fractional RadioFrequency, Micro-Needling, Facial Treatments, Massages, Chakra Balancing Massage, Slimming Cavitation, Waxing, and Eyebrow Tinting. MM32214.

CROP JUICE BAR & CAFE

2320 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota and 4057 Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota (inside LA Fitness) (941) 923-8640 cropjuicesrq.com

HOLISTIC FOR PETS

Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, Craniosacral Therapy, Crystal Therapy. With over 20 years of education and experience in holistic living, the delicate dynamics of the human anatomy are understood and applied in your personalized session.

Omega Cure® – Ultra-fresh, pure omega-3 cod liver oil. The result is impressive: our customers tell us they experience lowered triglyceride levels and relieved joint pains.

SUNCOAST JIN SHIN JYUTSU

NATURAL PET FOOD

TONYA LAUGHLIN, LMT

NATURAL FOOD

Eve Prang Plews, LIC NC333 Full Spectrum Health, Inc. 2106 Bispham Road Sarasota, FL 941-952-1200 • M-Fri 9-5, Sat10-2 FullSpectrumHealth.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & STORE. Superior Supplements by Xymogen and more. Professional Grade Homeopathics by Newton.

Essential Oils by Oil Lady and Wind River Organic Skin Care by Éminence.

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 S. Pineapple Ave Sarasota, FL 34236 941-554-4292, Starflower.com

CAFE EVERGREEN

801 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 941-412-4334 CafeEvergreen.net

Cafe Evergreen is a natural, organic restaurant.

Our menu consists of many organic recipes designed to not only taste delicious, but also enhance your health. Open 7 days a week 11am-9pm.

Starflower Organic Spathecary offers an extensive line of superfoods and herbal medicinals with disease protocols. We offer a Holistic Wellness consultation for detoxification, which is a comprehensive multi-organ, totalbody cleansing and natural detoxification program. It includes reducing toxin intake, enhancing toxin elimination, and using specific detoxification herbs and other supportive dietary supplements to strengthen and promote optimum function of the organs. Mon- Fri, 10-5pm Sat 11-4

Bonded & Insured

MASSAGE THERAPY Bich Mai Massage

Best Green Cleaning Service 2010, 2011, 2013

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED BICH MAI MASSAGE

Will meet or beat all competitor pricing.

MA 0025928 1219New East Ave, Suite Special 202, Sarasota Client 941-724-99923 Massages for $100 (regular price $65-75) each

Home Cleaning • Office Cleaning • Carpet Cleaning

Customized massage to fit your • Customized Massage to Fit Your Needs needs.

Specializing in sports • Specializing in Sports Massage massage.

Available evenings & Green Fact: Within 26 seconds after exposure to chemicals such as • Works onNew all levels of special athletics-to weekends. client 3 alleviate pain traditional cleaning products , traces of these chemicals can be found in every and prevent injury massages for $100.

• Medical Insurance Accepted

Licensed Massage Therapist MA 0025928

941-724-9992

organ in the body.

1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34239

The area’s first and most trusted green cleaning company 100% NonToxic — don’t be fooled by pretenders

10% off

House Cleaning*

*first time clients only. Must present coupon.

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ONE HOME AT A TIME! greenworldhomecleaning.com natural awakenings

Call us for a FREE Estimate:

(941) 923-1717 December 2015

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NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS SPECIAL NUTRITION DISCOUNT PRICES

THE PILATES BODY & GYROTONIC STUDIO

1882 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota 941-929-0884 SpecialNutrition.net

Offering the largest selection of all major supplement brands and natural products in the Sarasota area at discount prices. Special orders are our pleasure.

1071 S Tuttle Ave. Ste 2, Sarasota, FL 941-955-5533 PilatesSRQ.com

PSYCHIC MEDIUM REVEREND LOIS CHENEY

1955 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota (941) 877-1381

Local, family owned furniture store specializing in Savvy Rest natural, organic latex mattresses and bedding. Providing a pure, safe sleeping environment for better health and better sleep.

928-300-2030 Sarasota-Psychic-Medium.com RevLois@gmail.com

Contacts Guides, Angels, Loved Ones, Past Lives. Cord Removal, Healing with Sound & Color. Chakra Balancing. Home or Office Clearing. Clinical Hypnosis for Habit Change. Psychic Parties!

ORGANIC PERSONAL CARE/CLEANING PRODUCTS AVA ANDERSON NON-TOXIC

RESTAURANT

Ashley Light, Independent Consultant (941)536-8051 Rabbitfox8@gmail.com avaandersonnontoxic.com/ashleylight

VEG & GRILL

Offering skincare, makeup, cleaning products, pet products, kid products, baby products, and personal care items. All 100% toxin-free made with 100% certified organic essential oils and botanicals. Shop, host, join us!

PEST CONTROL

2164 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota 941-312-6424 www.vegsrq.com

SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES

Dean Burnside, President Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice 941-371-1311 GoodNewsPestSolutions.com

Rev. Zan Benham, BSL, BS, CHT 941-922-7839

Spiritual counselor, shamanic practitioner, Reiki healing, breath, and energy work, hypnosis, soul retrieval, past life regression all to empower and help you move into the Divine flow of the joy and power within you.

Go Green Plus 3 • Pest Control, Termite Control • Rodent Proofing and Trapping • Bat and Bird Exclusion • Mosquito and Mole Suppression • Bed Bug Control • Residential and Commercial.

SPATHECARY

Valerie Clows 5411 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, 941-378-4367 5770 Ranch Lake Blvd. East Bradenton, 753-7297 HolisticForPets.com

Specializing in Hypo-allergenic Foods, Frozen Natural Raw Foods, Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies, Detergent & Soap Free Shampoo, Natural Flee Preventatives Skin Care Products, Healthy treats, Toys and gifts.

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SPIRITUAL CENTERS CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING

Sarasota

Rev. Karen Wolfson 3145 South Gate Circle (Tuttle@Siesta Dr.) 941-927-6212 CSLSarasota.com

COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT 5041 Ringwood Meadow, G2, Sarasota 941-371-9333 CosmicCenterOfSpiritualLight.com

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awakening Consciousness. A place of Knowledge,Wisdom, Healing and Comfort. Please visit our website at CCOSL.com for more information.

ECKANKAR

Explore Eckankar at eckankar.org, call 941-358-0325 or on Facebook: EckankarInSarasota

Eckankar gives practical ways for people to have real spiritual experiences—even the ultimate experience of God—in this very lifetime. You can Explore Eckankar at eckankar.org, call 941-358-0325 or on Facebook: EckankarInSarasota.

RISING TIDE INTERNATIONAL

PET SUPPLIES HOLISTIC FOR PETS

Fresh, food-grade, organic skin care made in small batches, including medicinal - grade essential oils. We specialize in anti-aging for mature skin, rosacea, and acne. Visit our boutique and Spathecary Mon - Fri 105pm and Sat 11-4pm

Veg & Grill offers Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Vegetarian, vegan & gluten free menu available. Check out our website for sample of our menu- take out available.

SHAMANIC PRACTICES

GOOD NEWS PEST SOLUTIONS

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 S. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 941-554-4292 • Starflower.com

A fully equipped movement center utilizing Pilates, GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Methods in small group classes, duets or one on one training.

ORGANIC BEDDING TOP DRAWER FURNITURE

SKIN CARE

PILATES

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 S, Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236 941-554-4292 Starflower.com

Starflower Organic Skincare is one of the leading holistic skin care manufacturers in the U.S.A, offering a complete line of certified organically grown, food grade ingredients and essential oils. Spathecary services include Organic Facials, Structural Alignment Massage, Reflexology and Nutritional and Holistic Detoxification counseling.

www.nasrq.com

5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota RisingTideInternational.org Universal Worship: Sunday 10:30am

Interfaith and interspiritual classes, seminars, retreats and worship/service. Core offerings are rooted in the teachings of Universal Sufism. Founder: Shahabuddin David Less,Senior TeacherSufi Order International.

UNITY OF SARASOTA

Rev. Elizabeth Thompson 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota 941-955-3301 UnityOfSarasota.com

Unity is an extremely positive approach to life, seeking to accept the good in people and all of life. God is seen as having many attributes, but most important that God is LOVE.

VETERINARIAN ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

3646 Birky Street, Sarasota 941-954-4771 SRQVet.com

Dr. Anne Luther has over 25 years experience in conventional medicine and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy. “We treat your pet like our own!”

YOGA ROSEMARY COURT YOGA

810 Central Ave, Sarasota 941-952-5280 RosemaryCourt.com

Rosemary Court Yoga in downtown Sarasota offers all styles & levels of yoga classes including Beginner, Hatha, Pre & Postnatal, Iyengar, Restorative, Vinyasa, Power, Senior, Kundalini, Kripalu, and more.

Come visit our welcoming and tranquil space.

GARDEN OF THE HEART YOGA

2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. Near Tuttle 941-341-9781 GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com

Alignment-based hatha yoga for all ages and abilities. Classes are taught progressively, building from one week to the next each month, so you can access more poses with ease, according you your level. Gentle Yoga, Meditation, Vinyasa, Mixed Levels, Kirtan, Restorative Yoga, Chair Yoga, Workshops, and Teacher Training. Open 7 days a week. Dropins welcome.

RADIANT SOUL YOGA & WELLNESS

3512 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota 941-380-1206 Radiantsoulyogawellness.com

We offer various types of Yoga including Pilates, Gyrokenesis, Dance, Gong, as well as Meditation classes. In addition, we offer health & nutrition counseling, soulful art, private lessons, women’s workshops, and off-site adventures which offer new tools for good health. Come experience it all!

REFLEX ARTS DANCE & YOGA STUDIO 6260 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd 941-359-YOGA (9642) ReFLEXarts.com

Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won’t make it ‘white’. ~Bing Crosby

IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER! Natural Awakenings’ healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has a new look and more features.

• Updated every month with new content • Search healthy products in our National Directory • Find your local magazine • Read feature stories En Español • Sign up for Promotions and Newsletters • So much more and it’s FREE!

ReFLEX offers it all: from chair yoga to aerial yoga, from ballet to Zumba, from meditation & journaling classes to massage services! Honor your mind, body & spirit today. All ages and skill levels welcome.

Search “Natural Awakenings”and download

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com