Natural Awakenings January 2019 Edition

EE R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

SPECIAL EDITION

MENTAL WELLNESS

Stay Sharp! Views of Holistic Strategies Health Keep Your Brain Healthy

Insights from Ancient Cultures

Befriending Food The Psychology of Eating

January 2019 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com January 2019

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The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center z

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Our integrative approach treats a wide range of conditions including:

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Difficulting Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromyalgia Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders

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We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:

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To learn more, watch our website videos.

Whole-Body Medicine, LLC ~ The Natural Approach for Optimal Health 2

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairfield, CT | 203-371-8258 | WholeBodyMed.com Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

COMING IN FEBRUARY Fairfield County/ Housatonic Valley Edition

2019 NATURAL LIVING

LT Y H OU Y P RH LA N EA E LT T R HY E S LI O V U IN R G C , E G U

ID

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DIRECTORY

• $125 for 1st Listing • $62.50 2nd Listing

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Natural Living Directory Pricing

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ATTENTION LOCAL BUSINESSES!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reach more than 80,000 Natural Awakenings readers all year long.

Attract new customers and increase your business with our cost-efficient advertising, in print and online.

Inquire About Special Multi-Market Advertising Opportunities and our Profile Options

Deadline: January 12

Call now to reserve your space!

Each Listing Includes: • 1 Category & 4 Contact Lines • Description (up to 35 words) • Photo or Logo

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Contents

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE NON-PROFIT 501 (C) (3)

PSYCHIC INSPIRATIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR!

24 HEALTH FROM A

MULTICULTURAL LENS

Ancient Wisdom Provides Drug Alternatives

Indigenous Practices Emphasize Balance

FOR STAYING SHARP

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26 EARTH MEDICINE

28 NATURAL STRATEGIES

How a Healthy Brain Avoids

Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s

32 HOLISTIC THERAPIES

FOR ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Medication is Not the Only Answer 203.438.5795 · RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG

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35 BEFRIENDING FOOD

Embrace the Psychology of Eating

36 SPEAKING LIVE

FROM INSIDE

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

38 DEMYSTIFYING sio n s e S e s r y D a y! v a C Salt Day, Eve ll $25 A

ADDICTION

How to Mitigate Common Risk Factors

A Way of Life, Not a Moment in Time

Appreciating Wisdom from Other Species

40 RADICAL GRATITUDE

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48 LIVE LIKE AN ANIMAL DEPARTMENTS 7 news briefs 16 health briefs 18 film brief 19 inspiration 20 community

spotlight 22 mastering yoga 35 conscious eating 4

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

44 healthy kids 46 naturally

healthy pet 49 pet resource guide 50 calendar 55 resource guide 61 classifieds 62 ad index

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.

32 44

Touch of Sedona The Finest in Southwest Goods & Healing Items

A Unique Boutique with Heartfelt Purpose

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Native American Art Turquoise & Silver Jewelry Crystals of all sizes Chakra Jewelry Dreamcatchers Buddhas • Books • Angels Candles • Incense • Oils F

Visit us in Ridgefield and our New Store in Bethel! www.touchofsedonaridgefield.com Both Locations 125 Greenwood Ave. 452 Main Street Open Everyday Ridgefield, CT Bethel, CT Until 5:30pm 203-438-7146 475-329-2087

Natural Health ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

& WELLNESS CENTER

Individualized Treatment Plans for Acute and Chronic Conditions Osteoarthritis & Joint Disorders • Back Problems Cholesterol Problems • Anxiety & Depression Fatigue, Insomnia & Weight Gain • Diabetes High Blood Pressure • Headaches & Migraine Upper Respiratory Conditions

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We accept most health insurance plans including Husky Health Connecticut

Schedule a consultation and receive 20% off all recommended supplements

NAtURAL heALth AND WeLLNess CeNteR 203.874.4333 2103 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615 • www.nhawc.com January 2019

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

FAIRFIELD COUNTY/ HOUSATONIC VALLEY PUBLISHER Nicole Miale EDITORS Michelle Bense Ariana Rawls Fine DESIGN & PRODUCTION Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gina Cronin Alison DeNicola Nicole Klughers Mary Oquendo Donna Vella SALES & MARKETING Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale WEBSITE Erica Mills DISTRIBUTION Man in Motion LLC

CONTACT US 137 Danbury Rd, #323, New Milford, CT 06776 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman

NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett

ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2019 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. 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.

Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

letter from publisher

T

his year’s January edition hits the stands during a time of heightened anxiety and stress for many, whether it’s due to global, national or local concerns. We’re coming off the holiday season as well, a period of gatherings, festivities, family and friends, but when there are also unwelcome stressors, such as difficult relationship dynamics, unrealistic expectations, poor food and beverage choices, and overwhelm.

The sad truth is that sometimes it seems to be human nature to complain or place judgment and blame on others Nicole Miale when we don’t get what we want. As a species we exhibit a “default” tendency to get emotionally wrapped up in a situation, often causing us to miss golden opportunities to step away or diffuse tensions.

With increased focus on winning, chances for true co-creation dwindle. That’s such a shame because finding narrow common ground and inhabiting a space of gratitude are the things that will support development of reasonable compromise and continue to raise the vibration of all enterprises.

Natural Awakenings’ focus is on solutions, not problems. Resisting the sensational in favor of the meaningful, our articles seek to educate and inform readers about timely issues impacting mind, body and spirit. We work to provide actionable inspiration and spotlight people who are making a difference across the nation and in the local communities we serve. 2019 marks Natural Awakenings’ 25th anniversary in the United States (that was the original edition in Naples, Florida, we’ve been in this area for 15 years this year!); our mission has never been more important than now.

With all this as a backdrop, we focused our January issue on mental wellness, offering suggestions and tools to keep our minds sharp and increase our ability to weather the messiness of life with a measure of equanimity. We look at many options for selfcare, how to recognize risks of addiction, examine how best to address a friend or loved one who is struggling with mental illness, and contemplate natural ways to keep our minds healthy as we age. There are many pathways for positive change and alternatives to drugs to manage depression, anxiety and other common conditions. We hope you find comfort and inspiration in our offerings this month.

Looking ahead, the February issue is our annual Natural Living Directory; please be in touch soon if you would like your business or practice to be included in the biggest issue of the year! Distributed for the rest of 2019, the directory issue shines the spotlight on the practitioners and businesses that make this area such a vital place to live and be. Don’t miss your chance to be included in this key reference guide! The final deadline for the directory issue is January 12th.

Wishing you all a vibrant and meaningful 2019, full of love, laughter and purpose.

With love and light,

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

See our display advertiser index on page 62.

Making it easier to find the resources you need. eNaturalAwakenings.com

news briefs

Holistic Moms Network Launches in Danbury

Brain Under Attack Book Offers Hope and Education

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olistic Moms Network is launching a new chapter for the Greater Danbury area in 2019. The meetings will be held the second week of every month at Healthy Weighs Wellness Center in Brookfield, and the kick-off event will take place on January 14 at 6:30pm. There will also be open houses held on January 16 at 9:30am and January 19 at 10:30pm.

Susana Burns and Dr. Julie Conner, the new leader and coleader of the chapter, welcome mothers, fathers, grandparents and caregivers that are holistically inclined or curious about holistic living to find out what it means to join the new community chapter.

The monthly meetings are open to all chapter members; visitors are welcome to attend a complimentary meeting to see if the chapter is a good fit. Some meetings will be demo classes from local yoga instructors, music teachers and holistic practitioners.

Others will feature speakers on special topics such as organic gardening, holistic dentistry, positive discipline, political activism for busy moms, homeschooling, natural cosmetics and more.

The Holistic Moms Network is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to generate national awareness, education and support for holistic parenting and green living by providing nurturing, open-minded and respectful local community networks that encourage families to share these ideals and learn from each other. Its purpose is to connect parents and create supportive communities around holistic and green living, both in person, through local chapters and online.

This chapter covers the towns of Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Roxbury, Sherman, Southbury, Washington and Woodbury.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/HMNGreaterDanbury.

Location: Healthy Weighs Wellness Center, 366 Federal Rd, Brookfield.

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pidemic Answers’ new book, Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS and Autoimmune Encephalitis, is a must-read for parents of children with symptoms and diagnoses such as OCD, Lyme disease, excessive anxiety, tics, developmental regression, seizures and so many other challenges. Parents of children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and learning disabilities may also benefit from reading the book, as many children with these disorders may also have PANS. The authors are Beth Lambert, MA, and Maria Rickert Hong.

PANS, or pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome, is also known as autoimmune encephalitis. It can include infections that cross the blood-brain barrier, including Group A Streptococcus; Lyme disease and its co-infections; Mycoplasma pneumonia; and varicella, influenza, Epstein-Barr and herpes simplex viruses. In Brain Under Attack, you’ll read about why these infections are crossing the blood-brain barrier, and common Western medical and integrative approaches to PANS. The book includes interviews with practitioners of all types, and parents who have restored the health of their children with PANS.

Rickert Hong is a former Wall Street equity research analyst who is now a certified holistic health counselor. A former healthcare consultant and teacher, Lambert is the author of A Compromised Generation: The Epidemic of Chronic Illness in America’s Children.

If you are a practitioner and wish to buy the book in multiples of 20, Epidemic Answers is offering the book at a 40 percent discount off the book’s list price, exclusive of shipping. Practitioners of children with these conditions may find the book helpful to help educate parents about their children’s condition.

For more information or to purchase a copy, visit EpidemicAnswers.org/Resources/Books/Brain-Under-Attack.

January 2019

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Compassion for Self and Others: A Workshop in Danbury

news briefs

Meditation and Shadow Work at Barefoot Living Arts

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uring meditation, the conscious mind becomes less busy, and awareness is thus allowed to recede back to deeper levels of your being.

Once that happens, things you had repressed or chosen to overlook in life are there waiting for you; once exposed, these aspects can be healed or worked with. On January 24, at Barefoot Living Arts in Fairfield, from 6 to 8pm, come to an enlightening evening with Dr. Gulrukh Bala to explore the shadow self and find out how you can benefit from knowing it more deeply.

Bala is an internationally known lifestyle motivator, success coach, writer, philosopher and healer. As the founder and teacher of Heartlight Ascension (HeartlightAscension.com), a form of integral/supramental yoga, she is coaching people in the practical application of law of attraction as a tool for self-empowerment and self-realization. Bala has authored four books and created six CDs for healing. She is about to release her fifth book on crystals, which explores the healing relationship between the human soul and this natural gift to humankind.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/BarefootLivingArtsMeditation.

Location: Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 61.

T

he Connecticut Counseling Association’s (CCA) Western Chapter is hosting a compassion workshop on January 19, from 8:45 to 11am, at Western Connecticut State University’s Mid-Town Campus. The presenter is Yvonne Bregman, LCSW (YvonneBBregman.com), who has been in private practice in Ridgefield since 2003.

The workshop covers compassion as a modality of care for yourselves and your clients. Participants will learn a four-step compassion practice, based on Drs. Kristin Neff and Ladner’s research. It will help foster development of self-compassion as part of a “compassion toolbox.” You will learn the data supporting compassion-based practice in your work, as well as at least two exercises to encourage self-compassion.

Sign-in begins at 8:45am, followed by the presentation from 9 to 11am. For those earning a continuing education (CE) certificate, you must sign in and out. The certificates will be emailed out 3 to 5 weeks after the workshop. Two free CE hours will be offered to current CCA Members only. Non-CCA members can attend, but need to register and will not receive CEs unless they become a CCA member. Students are welcome to fill out a CE evaluation form at the end of the workshop, and sign in and out.

If needed, the event’s snow date is January 26.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/CCAJan19. You must email WesternCCA@gmail.com to register. Location: Western Connecticut State University, 181 White St, Mid-Town Campus, Danbury.

The class will be held at White Hall’s Room 023.

Jessica Hunter

Hunter Healing Hands

Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Integrative & Intuitive Healing Sessions Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Spirit Communication, Soul Retrieval, Extraction, Depossession, Curse Unraveling, Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki

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Professional Space Clearing and Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses

Available Training Programs Stone Spirit Program

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2 Year Shamanic Apprenticeship & Shamanic Practitioner Certification

Shamanic & Empath Workshops

203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 8

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Walk on the Wild Side with Winter Tracking

Tired and Unhappy with a Directionless Life?

Get clear on what you want - then get clear on how to get it!

• Get off the emotional rollercoaster with an alert, sharper mind • Manage your energy, not your time, with flow and rhythm • Improve health and happiness while discovering your purpose Contact Tom Scally for a complimentary 15-minute consultation

203-257-9030 www.bridgingtheunknown.com

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here are always clues left behind by wild animals for you to decipher, telling a story of their habits and lives. In the Winter Wildlife Tracking event with Andy Dobos, aka The Forest Wolf, you will delve into some of the details at The White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield. The walk will take place on January 12 from 10am to noon.

Get to know your wildlife that much better. Children should be accompanied by an adult. Dress warmly and wear good boots for the tracking walk. Meet in the museum.

The cost per person is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.

Other events at the center during January include the Nature’s Nursery at 4pm on January 3, an hour-long program designed just for young nature lovers.

Every session includes a story, an encounter with a live animal, and an activity or craft.

During the week of January 12-18, there is free admission for children ages 12 and under when accompanied by an adult, courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. John Morosani, in memory of Remy Edmund Morosani.

We’re Dedicated To Every Client Because of you there is a change for the better!

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For more information and to register, call 860-567-0857 or visit WhiteMemorialCC.org. Location: The White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd, Litchfield.

January 2019

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news briefs

Massage Therapy

The Gift of Relaxation Specializing in: Swedish • Pregnancy • Injury • Infant Trigger Point • CranioSacral Therapy

Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlmt.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

What's the buzz about CBD? Find out how it could benefit your health AND your bank account!

SHOP: www.holistichealthwithcbd.com BIZ OP: www.hempworxbizop.com/CJoy

Carol Joy 203.307.0323

Certified Health & Wellness Coach

Naturopathic Physician & Licensed Acupuncturist Holistic, Natural Medicine for Health and Wellbeing Botanicals, Nutrition, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Lab testing & more

Anxiety/Depression • Auto-Immune Disease • Chemical Toxicity Digestive Issues • Fatigue • Hormone Imbalance • Insomnia Muscle/Joint Pain • Tobacco Addiction • Stress Reduction

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Connecticut

y New York

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Kurt Beil, ND, LAc, MPH

HUDSON VALLEY NATURAL HEALTH

914-362-8315 |drkurt@earthlink.net |hudsonvalleynaturalhealth.com

Holistic Psychotherapy

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Holistic Chamber of Commerce Expands Across Connecticut

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he Holistic Chamber of Commerce, an international organization focused on supporting holistic, complementary, alternative and sustainable professionals, practitioners and businesses, has announced a major expansion in Connecticut. Three new chapters have been formed already in 2019 and more are in the works, says founder Camille Leon.

“Our goal is to have chapters all over the state, from Putnam to Hamden, Manchester to Danbury to Stamford and beyond,” she says. “All of these communities need and want easier access to holistic healing professionals, and a statewide network of chapters and members will make that happen.”

Three Connecticut chapters are planning their first meetings for January.

The Avon chapter has a new President, Cheryl Case of Sharing the Light Wholistic Center in Avon. Updates, when available, will be posted at HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/Avon.

A launch meeting is planned at Sharing the Light for Wednesday, January 16 from 6:30 to 8pm. For more information, contact Case at 860-936-0012 or Avon@HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com.

A Willimantic chapter is being started by Lisa Day-Lewis.

Updates, when available, will be posted at HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/Willimantic. Day-Lewis can be reached at 860-593-5002 or Willimantic@ HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com.

Hamden has a new chapter being started by Lilian Martinez. Details for the January launch meeting are available at HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/Hamden. Interested readers can reach Martinez at 203-808-1124 or Hamden@HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com.

If you are interested in starting a chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce in your area, learn more and get started by visiting HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/page/start-a-chapter. See ad, page 41.

Anxiety • Depression • Relationship Issues • Trauma Grief & Loss • Addictions • Self-Esteem To schedule an appointment with an experienced therapist, call: Sherry Minniti D’Elia, LCSW, Founder

203-655-4854 sherrymdelia@gmail.com | Darien, CT 06820 | holisticpsychotherapyct.com

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

The thermometer of success is merely the jealousy of the malcontents. ~Salvador Dali

Awaken Inner Magic with Yoga and Tarot

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Brew Kombucha at Cross Culture Taproom & Brewery

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ross Culture Kombucha Taproom & Brewery in Danbury is hosting a kombucha homebrewing workshop on January 17 from 6 to 8pm.

At this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to make kombucha at home.

Participants will take home a glass jar with their first one gallon homebrew started and ready for fermentation. The presenters will give you the insight and lessons learned to successfully make kombucha.

The $39 per person cost covers the workshop in the brewery with hands-on instruction, a SCOBY and starter kit, a gallon jar, and one flight of kombucha at the taproom. Discounts will be offered on kombucha fills for participants.

Cross Culture Kombucha is a local kombucha brand, launched in May 2017, and sold in more than 65 retail locations in and around Fairfield County. It opened Connecticut’s first kombucha taproom and brewery in Danbury in September 2018. The taproom offers six rotating kombucha flavors, local snack brands, and a large viewing window into the ferment room portion of the kombucha brewery.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit Tinyurl.com/Kombucha WorkshopDanbury. Location: Cross Culture Kombucha Taproom & Brewery, 52 Division St, Danbury.

rom February 22 to 24, a special workshop entitled “Awaken Your Inner Magic” is being presented by local teacher Alison DeNicola and New York-based author Sasha Graham, at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, in Lenox, Massachusetts. This unique offering is a fun, insightful weekend intended to awaken intuitive potential and inner magic with an inspired blending of yoga and tarot, open to all levels of practice.

At the workshop, participants will explore the archetypes and symbols of the tarot using yoga, movement, intuitive practices and meditation. Through guided visualizations, journaling and partner practice, learn ways to access your “higher mind” while discovering the magical qualities that lie dormant within you. In this program that focuses on the images from the Rider Waite Tarot deck, you will learn about the relationship of the elements to the suits of tarot as well as how to read for yourself and others.

DeNicola is a Connecticut-based teacher of yoga and meditation, as well as author of five inspirational card decks. Graham is an international tarot presenter and author of seven acclaimed books on tarot and divination.

Sign up for the program at Kripalu.org, or through their websites: AlisonDeNicola.com or SashaGraham.com.

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

Intuitive & Consultant LPC Shaw, PhD, F.Psychotherapist Victoria

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant Combining the best of traditional

psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with working with children, teens and adults. intuitive guidance in working with children, teens and adults.

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

Offices in Wilton and Westport www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com

www.victoriashawintuitive.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com • VictoriaShawIntuitive.com 203-254-3403 •• vfshawphd@gmail.com 203-254-3403 vfshawphd@gmail.com

Calm Kids & Stress-Less Solutions

Teaching children practical skills to reduce anxiety

Diane Bahr-Groth CHy, TFTdx

Help their star shine!

Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT Mindbodytransformation.com 203 595-0110 January 2019

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news briefs

Reboot the Mind to Increase Vitality

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he 30-day Vital Mind Reset workshop is a six-part Sunday series with Amarjot Kaur (Anne Donovan). Starting January 6 at Yoga for Amarjot Kaur Everybody in Fairfield, this 30-day program consists of a whole-body overhaul through nourishment, detoxification, and emotional and spiritual support.

First, you will remove known allergens and inflammatory foods so all that remains is a diet your body can recognize. This includes seasonal vegetables, fruit, pasture-raised meats and healthy fats. After the first phase comes the detoxification part. You will rid the body and your home of products containing harmful chemicals. The third component is spiritual support through a powerful kundalini yoga and meditation practice.

Included in this program is one free kundalini yoga class per week, daily meditations provided by Kaur, and a private Facebook group for continued support between sessions. A must-read prior to the workshop is A Mind of Your Own by Kelly Brogan. The book can be purchased at Yoga for Everybody.

The cost of the workshop is $210 for all six sessions if paid by December 30, and $240 thereafter. No drop-ins are allowed. The class runs from 10am to noon from January 6 through February 10.

Kaur is a KRI Level 1-certified kundalini yoga instructor, a CTI-certified life coach and a level 2 shamballa multidimensional healer.

For more information and to register, visit Yoga4Everybody.net. Location: Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Workshop on Homeopathy for Cold and Flu

Navigate More Graceful Transitions

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n January 15 at 6:30pm, join Holistic Moms Network’s (HMN) New Haven County-Southwest, CT Chapter to understand more about homeopathy. Learn key remedies for the whole family to relieve cold and flu symptoms, such as coughs, sore throats, body aches and more. Yashasvi (Yaashi) Jhangiani, a homeopathic educator, will cover the basics and philosophy of homeopathy, as well as how to dose and take remedies.

HMN members and guests will have a chance to receive homeopathy information and samples to use at home.

Attendees will also have a chance to win a HomeoTravel Kit from Boiron.

Jhangiani has a bachelor’s degree in homeopathy from Mumbai University, is board certified by the Council for Homeopathic certification as a CCH (certified classical homeopath), and is registered with the North American Society of Homeopaths and the National Center of Homeopathy. She has been practicing since 1994. Jhangiani is also an EMT with Westport’s EMS since 2003 and teaches their American Heart Association-affiliated CPR and first aid programs.

The mission of Holistic Moms Network, a nonprofit support and discussion network, is to connect parents who are interested in holistic health and green living. It welcomes people wherever they are on their own holistic path in an environment that does not judge. Living healthy and living green is not an endpoint, but an ongoing journey.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/HolisticMomsNHSW or Facebook.com/HMNNewHaven. Location: Woodruff Family YMCA, 631 Orange Ave, Milford.

R

Metaphysical Shop & Healing Space

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n January 9 from 7 to 8:30pm, Dr. Maria Sirois, PsyD, and celebrity coach Karlee Fain will focus on transitioning well during a workshop for the Positive Living Forum.

Have you felt the desire to make a transition in your career, relationships or health? Do you find yourself in a transition you weren’t entirely prepared for? How do you navigate Maria Sirois the uncharted territory of your calling without slipping back into old patterns or turning the good things in your life upside down?

Sirois and Fain blend soul with science, integrating tools and practices from the fields of positive psychology and life coaching.

You will rediscover the wisdom you already carry within you to help you find your path to clarity, calm and Karlee Fain meaning.

Sirois (MariaSirois.com) is a positive psychologist and seminar leader who teaches internationally about the intersection of resilience and flourishing. She is the author of A Short Course in Happiness After Loss (And Other Dark, Difficult Times) and Every Day Counts.

Fain (EveryBodyThrive.com) is a health and life coach, author, and speaker. A Kripalu yoga practitioner for 28 years and teacher for 12 years, Fain is also a regular consultant for corporations and entrepreneurs.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/GracefulTransitions19.

Location: First Presbyterian Church - Fellowship Hall, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford.

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R

The Shop

The Studio

healing

Crystals Aromatherapy Psychics Candles, Gifts and more!

Yoga & Meditation Yoga Teacher Training Monthly Mystical Market Workshops & Events

Reiki Sessions & Classes Massage Shamanic Work Ideal Protein Clinic Monthly Community Healing Share and more…

Visit our website for shop hours.

See a complete schedule of classes & workshops on our website.

Sherman Village | 670 Main St. South | Woodbury, CT | 203-586-1655 | www.therubytreect.com January 2019

13

news briefs

Liquid Chocolate and Cacao Café Launch

S

ue Martovich, owner of Salt Of The Earth spa in Woodbury, has a passion for nature’s healing miracles. Her passion encouraged her to research the endless benefits of cacao, and Martovich held a grand opening in mid-December for her new venture at the Salt of the Earth Sanctuary location on Main Street in Woodbury: Liquid Chocolate & Company. It is a first-of-its-kind cacao café, serving signature cacao drinks and raw chocolates.

The benefits of cacao are many Sue Martovich and far reaching. Considered a drink of the gods by the Incas used by the Mayans for ritual beverages for marriage ceremonies, these associations gave rise to the scientific name of the cocoa tree, Theobroma cacao, from the Greek words theo (god) and broma (drink).

Cacao is the raw bean that is roasted and sometimes fermented to create chocolate. In addition to being a sacred food, it is also a superfood. Cacao is one of the highest sources of magnesium in nature, full of antioxidants, calcium, zinc, copper and selenium. It also triggers three neurotransmitters associated with elevating mood and mental well-being: serotonin, dopamine and phenylethylamine.

Visitors to the café may choose from a range of sweetened and unsweetened cacao drinks infused with soul-warming flavors of lavender, orange, rosemary and others to reinvigorate the body. The signature chocolate collection is a treat to the taste buds, featuring cacao elixirs such as Reishi Blend, the Classic Liquid Chocolate and Mayan Heat. These are sold through the online store as well as the café, which will supply and organize cacao ceremonies as well.

Martovich plans for Liquid Chocolate & Company to become the go-to destination for cacao lovers of all ages. Martovich and her business partner Kerry Lucier, Jr. (expert chocolatier, LC&C and founder of Aruna Chocolates) offer an attractive licensing program that will help others build a thriving business that is both soul-enriching and revenue-driven.

For more information, call 475-289-8247 or visit LiquidChocolateAndCompany.com. Location: Salt of the Earth Sanctuary, 346 Main St S, Woodbury. See ad, page 4.

DID YOU REALIZE THAT

TOXINS Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – and any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Call us to schedule an appointment:

14

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

INFLAMMATION?

D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8

1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851

Environmental Forum in Woodbury

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oger J. Kuhns, PhD, an Earth scientist working on the front lines of emerging environmental policy, will present "The Climate Crisis: What’s Really Going On and Is There Anything We Can Do About It?", on January 14 at 7pm, at the Greater Woodbury Environmental Forum in Woodbury. Kuhns is the lead author of Navigating the Energy Maze—The Roger J. Kuhns Transition to a Sustainable Future.

Kuhns is also the Connecticut State Coordinator for Citizens Climate Lobby, and a writer, scientist, filmmaker and performer.

The event will be held in Mattatuck Unitarian Universalist Society’s Fellowship Hall. Sunday services are held every Sunday at 11:15am at the Mattatuck Unitarian Universalist Society. Religious education for children and youth and nursery care are provided September through June. A mixed-age group meets during the summer months for summer religious exploration activities.

For more information, call 203-266-4810, or visit MUUSCT.org or Tinyurl.com/RogerKuhnsCT. Location: Mattatuck Unitarian Universalist Society, 214 Main St South, Woodbury.

Change Your Story, Change Your Life!

Restoring Creativity, Wellness, and Balance Nancy S. Scherlong, lcsw,ptr, m/s Coaching, Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts Workshops HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY • COACHING • EXPRESSIVE THERAPIES/TRAINING

914.572.3167 | www.wellnessmetaphors.com 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Suite 7 | Ridgefield, CT 06877

CLEANSES, SPECIAL DIETS, AND MORE… short term detox • meals to freeze dinner parties • cooking classes personalized coaching programs seminars

Eliana Grubel, C.H.C.

Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services • Coach • Chef

203-559-8946 www.cleanfood4urtype.com

Local Amputee Support Group Climbs

C

onnecticut Amputee Network is holding its monthly rock climbing activity for amputees at Rock Climb Fairfield, on January 31 from 7 to 8pm. The gathering is held the last Thursday of each month. Those that are climbing are supported by a community of rehab professionals, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Other chapters in the state include the Hartford Mt Sinai Amputee Support Group in Hartford, Waterbury Amputee Motivation Group in Waterbury, Lawrence and Memorial Hospital Amputee Support Group in New London and Gaylord Amputee Success Group in Wallingford.

Connecticut Amputee Network advocates for Connecticut’s limb loss and limb change community. They communicate the community’s needs and concerns to elected officials at the local, state and federal levels, and in turn elected officials consult them as experts on the community’s position regarding disability issues. The network also provides information on the law and disability rights to the limb loss/limb change community.

For more information on Connecticut Amputee Network, visit CTAmputeeNetwork.org. Event information can be found at Tinyurl.com/CANRockClimb2019. Location: Rock Climb Fairfield, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield.

Awa ken You r

Creativity

Lori Jeanne’s Tangles Zentangle ® Classes

for Individuals and Groups

Lori Jeanne Bach, CZT Call or text 203-209-2703 Lorijeannestangles@gmail.com

Positive & Nature Based Psychology Promoting well-being and resilience.

Happiness • Strength • Hope • Wisdom • Coping • Flourishing Ann C. Reeves, Psy. D, CAPP Licensed Psychologist

203-451-6208

annreevespsych@optonline.net • www.annreevespsychology.com 3 Hollyhock Lane, Wilton, CT 06897 January 2019

15

health briefs

Stress Lowers Women’s Fertility

Live Your Soul's Purpose | Attain Deep Peace Have Balance Around Giving and Receiving Have Loving, Supportive Relationships Have the Career that Sings to Your Soul

13th Octave LaHoChi Practitioner Training

$555 Investment

March 21 - 24 The Woodbury Wellness & Psychotherapy Center 787 Main St. South, Suite A5 Woodbury, CT 06798

$100 Deposit Required to Register Payment Plans Available Book early as these events always sell out!

Visit website for more details and to register.

The Academy for Soul Healing supports the growth and expansion of humanity, individually and on a global scale. "I foresee many students from the Academy becoming the teachers of this integrated way of service."

Eilis Philpott, Master Healer and Teacher Sign up now for "A Year of Healing 2019" at: academyforsoulhealing.com

203-767-5954 | www.SoulHealingJourney.com Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com | Fairfield, CT

A new dimension 1B)4%3'0453:% +4%)./0%12304"5)6%''7%//)*%70%:) 1?%:/)3)41'"/0"5)322:1354)01@ A9/5'%)23"7 headaches sciatica asthma sports injuries birth trauma stress disorders

ear and sinus infections 53:23')0977%') syndrome back and neck pain A%7/0:93')23"7

89221:0);19:)<1#;=/)7309:3') 4%3'"7$),"04)$%70'%()437#/>17) treatment.

Dr. David Johnston, DO & Associates 158 Danbury Road, suite #6 !"#$%&%'#()*+ ,,,-./0%12304"56%''7%//-7%0 Phone: 203.438.9915

16

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Women that feel highly stressed on a daily basis have a lower ability to conceive, report Boston University School of Medicine researchers. In a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, 4,769 couples that were trying to conceive were followed for a year. Those women with the highest self-reported stress were 13 percent less likely to conceive than women that reported little stress.

Men being under high stress had no effect on conception, but couples were a quarter less likely to conceive if the man’s stress score was low and the woman’s was high, which the researchers termed “partner stress discordance.” In North America, about one out of four women and one out of five men of reproductive age report daily psychological stress.

Beet Juice Boosts Stamina Beetroot juice supplements increase exercise duration and intensity for heart failure patients with a condition called reduced ejection fraction, which affects about half of such patients.

In previous studies, beets have been shown to increase exercise capacity for healthy people because they increase nitric oxide levels in the blood.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Laser Collagen Treatments for Skin Issues Many people notice signs of aging when skin begins to sag around the face and neck or when darker pigmentation appears. Laser collagen treatments are appropriate for men and women of all skin types and skin tones who wish to achieve dramatic results without painful surgery and lengthy recovery times. A non-invasive FDA-approved facial rejuvenation option that can produce noticeable results, laser collagen skin treatments effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, dark circles under the eyes, dullness of the skin and loose skin, for a smoother and more youthful appearance.

The process uses an infrared light source—a laser—to tighten skin by heating the natural collagen in the dermis (deep) layer under the skin’s surface, causing the more surface epidermis skin layer to contract and tighten. During a session, the practitioner uses a hand-held laser to apply brief pulses of laser energy to the skin. A continuous

203 TLC 203 TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products. Founded in 1997

by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well.

203-856-9566 www.203TLC.com

burst of cool air from the laser ensures patients’ comfort.

Sessions normally last from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the size and location of the area to be treated.

Most situations require two or three treatments about a month apart, but additional treatments may be needed depending on the issue being addressed. The treatments are suitable for all complexions and skin types. Facial skin tightening is noticeable immediately after the treatment and there is no downtime after the procedure.

Laser collagen treatments are safe and effective for restoring a more firm, youthful appearance to skin all over the body. Laser collagen treatment also encourages the growth of new collagen in the treated areas and promotes the absorption of more collagen from surrounding, untreated areas. With the regeneration of natural collagen, patients immediately begin to notice smoother, softer skin and a more youthful appearance.

The effects continue to improve over time following laser treatment, as the skin’s natural stores of collagen are gradually replenished.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 914-374-1756 or visit HildaDemirjianLaser.com. Location: 34 South Broadway, Suite 607, White Plains, NY. See ad, page 19.

Bodywork Michelle Quigley, LMT, RCST Advanced & Orthopedic Massage, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy & Sheng Zhen Meditation Teacher Fairfield & Weston www.michellequigley.com 203-216-8874

Energy Worker Debby Stein Reiki Master, Trained in Healing Touch & Integrative Energy Therapy DistantLinking@gmail.com www.DebbysEnergy.com Darien 203-353-1725

Personal Development Carrie Brady, Learning with Horses Possibilities Farm, Wilton LifeYouveImagined@gmail.com www.PossibilitiesFarm.com 203-210-7484

Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot Beth Leas 25+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone www.bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Meditation & Counseling Meg Reilly, MS, CH Meg Reilly 360 Classes monthly in Norwalk Personalized service by appointment www.MegReilly360.com 203-952-6272

Transformative Healing Tesa Baum, CHT, RM Certified Hypnotherapy Practitioner, Usui/Karuna Reiki Master, Shamanic Practitioner www.TesaBaum.com Ridgefield 203-364-4084

January 2019

17

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Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

film brief

Secret Ingredients New Film Shares Stories of Hope and Healing

Teacher and Practitioner of Cross-Cultural Energy Medicine and Contemporary Shamanism

Classes, Shamanic Training, Healing Sessions, Reiki, Andean Energy Medicine, Readings, Space Clearings and more...

www.embodythesacred.net

Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

AcuBlend

Blending The Art Science of Wellness

&

Acupuncture • Cupping Moxibustion • Gua Sha Tui Na • Massage Therapy Movement Therapies Herbal Medicine and much more!

Dr. Sian James, DAc, LAc, LMT, RYT

203.987.6585 • acublend.com • info@acublend.com

Individual, Couples, Group & Spiritual Counseling • Hypnotherapy

WOLF SPIRIT

• Drumming • Energy Work • Traditionl & Alternative Modalities

All Ages Welcome Husky and Most Insurance Accepted

203-263-3175 WolfSpiritWellness.org 18

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

A new feature-length documentary, Secret Ingredients, makes a compelling case for why organic foods may be the key to unlocking better health and reversing chronic illnesses ranging from asthma to autism. The film shares the uplifting stories of individuals and families that overcame their struggles with digestive problems, allergies, skin conditions and infertility after eliminating genetically modified (GMO) crops and agricultural toxins from their diets.

“This gives tremendous hope for those suffering from chronic disorders in that simply switching to an organic diet may improve their quality of life,” says Jeffrey Smith, who produced and co-directed the film with award-winning filmmaker Amy Hart. “We hope the film will create an organized tsunami driving millions of people to better living through healthy eating.”

Secret Ingredients includes testimonies from physicians and scientists that explain how GMOs, Monsanto’s ubiquitous Roundup herbicide and other pesticides can disrupt our biological systems and compromise our health. “More than 200 studies show the links between GMOs and poor health,” says Smith, “while Roundup and other toxic applications have been proven to damage mitochondria, disrupt the gut biome, throw off hormones, and promote tumors and birth defects.”

The film builds on the groundbreaking research that went into Smith’s prior feature-length documentary Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives, which looked at genetically engineered foods as a major contributor to rising disease rates in the U.S. Visit SecretIngredientsMovie.com for a trailer and schedule of screenings. Smith’s companion site HealingFromGMOs. com features a free online conference that shares researchbased recommendations on how to protect against and heal from exposure to GMOs and pesticides.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Who is Danny/Shutterstock.com

inspiration

HILDA DEMIRJIAN SINCE 1974

Love your skin!

Head, Heart and Gut Lodestars of Powerful Decision Making

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by Lee Milteer

e are living in unprecedented times of stress, confusion and overwhelm. We all need resources to help navigate these challenging times and make the right decisions for the highest and best long-term good for ourselves, our families and our businesses.

Those resources can be found within each of us if we pause to consider three reliable indicators: the head (intellect), the heart (feelings) and the gut (intuition). Before proceeding in making an important choice, make a habit of checking these built-in sensors, which can warn us about danger or give us the go-ahead.

Head: Make use of intellect and past knowledge. All decisions, actions and even non-actions have repercussions. Use the conscious mind to discern questions that need to be answered. For example, is this person telling the truth? What has worked in the past? Have we done our due diligence and homework before making a decision?

Skin Care Consultations Laser CoLLagen treatment Effective on the full face, neck and body for: Fine Lines • Wrinkles Sun Damage • Brown Spots Scars • Dark Circles Rosacea • Acne Cellulite • Stretch Marks Skin Tightening • Turkey Neck Laser Hair removaL for aLL CompLexions • Suitable for ALL areas on the body • Short course of treatment, accurate, non-invasive HiLda demirjian Laser and skin Care Center 34 South Broadway | Suite 607 White Plains, NY 10601 | 914-374-1756

www.hildademirjianlaser.com

Heart: I listen to my heart and ask: Is this the right direction for me?

Do I naturally feel attracted to this? Am I hearing truth? The internal part of us, the voice inside, tells us when things feel right or wrong.

For example, are we relaxed around the person we are asking the question about, or do we feel uptight and uncomfortable? Keep in mind that our bodies do talk to us. For me personally, if I feel shut down, tight and not good, I know something is not right. However, if I feel open, lighthearted and relaxed, I trust that my heart is telling me that, “All is well.” We have to pay attention to our own internal signals.

Gut: We need to trust our intuition. If it doesn’t feel right, chances are it’s not right for us. What may be right for one person can be wrong for another. Our gut instinct, our inner voice, is always there for us when we take the time to pay attention and listen.

Become conscious, and do not go into the default mode of past decisions or behaviors. Life has changed and requires more awareness of what is truth and what is not, and we need to utilize our senses, not the old programmed beliefs from others. It is our job to use the instincts that we have to help navigate new terrain.

Lee Milteer is the author of Reclaim the Magic: The Real Secrets to Manifesting Anything You Want and an award-winning speaker and life and business strategist.

Sign up for her free weekly Gems of Wisdom newsletter at Milteer. com. Go to FiveTypesOfEnergy.com for a free copy of her “Five Types of Energy” video series.

January 2019

19

community spotlight

A Conversation with

Holistic Integrative Psychiatrist David London, MD

A

fter 34 years in clinical practice in Waterford, Connecticut, in 2018 Dr. David London opened a second office in Westport, bringing his holistic integrative psychiatry approach to a new population. As part of our mental wellness issue, we asked him to tell us about his journey from conventional Western medical training (he is an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale) to the integrative mindset he now has toward his patients.

When did you first realize you had a passion for understanding the workings of the inner mind?

At the age of 12, I read Viktor Frankl’s book, Man’s Search for Meaning, and was fascinated. I wrote a paper for English on the “History of Mental Illness” and a paper for senior high on the Etiology of Schizophrenia. I was intrigued about psychoanalysis and mental illness throughout college and medical school and read widely in those areas. A course on Motivation and Personality in college and reading about the third force in psychology—the psychology of being—and the works of Abraham Maslow was inspirational.

Were you always interested in the role mental wellness plays in overall well-being or was that connection something that developed over time?

The mind-body-spirit connection happened for me when I began practicing yoga at age 18, and Transcendental Meditation at 19. This was about the time the first health food store appeared in our town. I went with my dad, who always enjoyed reading Prevention Magazine. The only produce they had was very large, organic carrots. We appreciated the special taste and energy of organic carrot juice. My first elective in my first year of medical school was nutrition.

Do you recall when/how you began to recognize the potential of holistic practices for improving mental wellness?

In 1980, I was at Esalen in Big Sur, California for a workshop on 20

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Holistic Medicine and was introduced to a wide variety of modalities. It was brilliant. In 1984, I developed a physical condition that didn’t respond to conventional medical treatment, so tried acupuncture with a woman who was very spiritual. After my first acupuncture treatment, the symptoms were gone. I started training in acupuncture for physicians several years later. That was the real beginning of developing a holistic practice. I moved past the mind-body split of conventional medicine and began integrating spirituality into clinical practice.

What challenges did you face while integrating holistic modalities into your clinical practice?

How were you able to overcome them?

Trying to understand the framework for holistic practice took a long time. Thinking through the connection between conventional psychiatry and energy medicine was a challenge. I finally came to understand that at any moment, there are four simultaneous worlds co-existing and communicating with one another—body, heart, mind and spirit—each with their own language. They each manifest differently, with different energies and frequencies.

It wasn’t until 1993 that the National Institute of Health established the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. So in the ‘90s, Connecticut had limited acupuncture, and the medical profession and public had very limited knowledge of its benefits. In 2000, things really began changing. The reception—by the public and mainstream medicine—has grown exponentially. So my integrative holistic psychiatry practice has been well received, especially over the last 15 years.

Which holistic modalities do you use with your patients? Are there other modalities you’re interested in but have not yet explored or don’t yet offer yourself?

I’m trained in Chinese and Western Herbal Medicine, as well as Functional Medicine, allowing me to provide more options to clients. Training in contemplative psychotherapy—both mindfulness and compassion practices—has shifted my psychotherapy work, which also can include Buddhist and psychoanalytic psychology.

Currently, I’m in the middle of a yoga teacher training program, and look forward to offering yoga therapy. Movement and breathing are critical in achieving a healthy lifestyle and overcoming illness.

I am interested in the whole body and the ecology of our environment, constantly avoiding reductionist, single-cause thinking. In the early ‘80s, I was doing forensic psychiatry— evaluating people with multiple chemical sensitivities from working in sick buildings with poor heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems full of toxins from bacteria and mold.

Many colleagues were quick to label these people as having only psychological problems. I learned early in my career not to label someone when I didn’t understand the cause of their

eNaturalAwakenings.com

problems or couldn’t find an answer in my knowledge base.

I have grown comfortable with uncertainty and leaving my mind open to the possibility of something I’m not aware of contributing to the problem. This has been the primary motivator for my ongoing educational development and growth as a clinician.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach?

Everything I do is individualized and personalized. I work intuitively and listen deeply to people. I believe in cultivating a positive, caring relationship that can hold the person as they experience their suffering. This is the centerpiece of my work. Medication has a place, but it is not the whole solution. Lifestyle, diet and nutrition, exercise and stress management, herbs, vitamins and nutrients, energy medicine... all have much to offer.

Thinking systemically and being process-oriented, there are many pieces to the puzzle that need to fit together. I strive for comprehensive evaluations. I value small, positive steps toward health and wellness. I try not to label and put people in a diagnosis “box”. I have been trained to value a developmental approach, having a strong foundation in early development, childhood and adolescence, family and community, and various stages of the life cycle. I prefer to see things as evolving over time, and with the right ingredients, people can come into homeostasis and balance. Collaborating is a shared journey; at best, I am only an optimistic guide.

Change is always possible, but can be challenging. To come out of darkness requires our willingness to come into the light.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. David London in his Westport office, call 203-557-6574 or visit DavidLondonMD.com. See ad, page 41.

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) offers safe, FDA approved full body or breast screening.

non invasive • No Radiation • Possible 8 years earlier breast cancer detection vs mammogram • Clinical imaging for detecting and monitoring a number of diseases and physical injuries.

rachel mazzarelli ��,���

203-257-3785

Offices throughout Fairfield County, Southbury, New Haven, Milford, and New York

whthermography@gmail.com www.wholehealththermography.com

This Medicine of the Future is Here Now! PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Treatments & Adult Stem Cell Therapy Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Henry Sobo to offer these cutting edge technologies.

PRP - Platelet Rich Plasma

Stem Cell Therapy

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A natural and safe, non-surgical method for healing: • PRP for Hair Restoration • PRP for Arthritis/Joints • PRP for Erectile Dysfunction

• Arthritis/joint problems–avoid steroids and surgeries.

• Stem cells for your joints are being used by leading doctors and institutions around the country.

• Stem cells are being applied for an expanding list of many other conditions.

Call for your FREE CONSuLTATiON with Henry C. Sobo, M.D. to see if these new, safe, and natural therapies are for you.

203-348-8805 Optimal Health Medical, LLC | 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford, CT 06905 | www.drsobo.com January 2019

21

Mastering Yoga

The yoga community in Fairfield County and the Housatonic Valley has never been more vibrant! This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice.

yoga brief

Ah Yoga Presents a Weekend with Desiree

F

rom January 25 to 27, ah Yoga, in New Milford, will host a special weekend event called "Deepen Your Practice", with internationally recognized yoga teacher Desiree Rumbaugh. Rumbaugh travels the globe offering workshops and retreats, sharing knowledge she has accumulated

INTRO YOGA OFFER

$30 FOR 30 DAYS OF YOGA! ( New Clients Only)

over the past three decades of working with students of all ages and levels of experience. As a full-time Certified Anusara Yoga teacher, Rumbaugh’s workshops are innovative and transformative, challenging and compassionate. She is the co-author of Fearless After Fifty: How to Thrive With Grace, Grit and Yoga and has online classes available through Tintyoga, Yoga Download, Shri TV, Gaia and Yoginit.

Rumbaugh holds fast to the teaching that love is Stronger Than Fear. Having navigated personal tragedy, she has relied on the study and practice of yoga to

THE JIIVA CENTER

2900 Main Street, Suite 1A Stratford, CT 06614 203-345-7747 www.jiivacenter.com

200HR YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

help her move forward in life with inner strength and courage. Known also for her warmth, authenticity and playful sense of humor, Rumbaugh is a master at delivering the complexity of yoga in a down-toearth, easily understandable way.

The schedule for the Friday – Sunday weekend is: Hip Openers, Friday, 6 to 8:30pm; Backbends, Saturday, 12 to 2:30pm; Forward Bends & Twists, Saturday, 3:30 to 5:30pm; Arm Balances & Inversions, Sunday, 10am to 12:30pm.

The special event costs $50 per class; pre-registration is recommended because space is limited.

For more information or to register, call 860-868-6707. Location: ah Yoga, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAINING Classes begin 1/5/2019 3 Weekends - 30 CEC

YOGA RETREAT IN JAMAICA

(FREE YOGA MEMBERSHIP INCLUDED )

FEBRUARY 16 - 22, 2019

Classes Begin Jan. 26th, 2019 *Payment Plans Available

YOGA - MEDITATION - & MORE!

Filling Up! Register Now!! *Payment Plans Available

100HR MEDITATION TEACHER TRAINING

RESTORATIVE YOGA CERTIFICATION

Classes Begin Jan. 27th, 2019

March 16, 2019 EARLY BIRD OF $195 BY 2/23/17, $225 THEREAFTER

*Payment Plans Available 100 CEC

6 CEC

22

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Awaken the Magic Blending Yoga and Tarot Awakens Intuition

T

by Alison DeNicola

he popularity of yoga has boomed in recent years with many individuals attending all types of yoga and meditation classes and workshops throughout the country. It is not uncommon for class attendees to move into the teaching role and then advance the practice and benefits of yoga for both themselves and their students.

One of the many benefits of yoga practice, whichever method someone may choose to explore, is the ability to calm the mind and to begin the journey of uncovering the inner landscape. This inner plane is the place where we can tap into intuition and the subconscious mind in a meaningful and practical way.

Two seemingly different but complementary holistic practices are yoga and reading the tarot. Tarot is a system of cards, most commonly 78, which represents the archetypes and symbols of an individual’s personal journey. The tarot originated several hundred years ago from an Italian playing card system that was used to give insight and predict future

events. Tarot evolved over time and in the early 20th century, the most popular of our modern tarot decks was born in England. The Rider Waite deck is most likely one whose imagery you have seen or experienced, whether you’ve had a reading or seen tarot cards in books in the movies.

This card deck is iconic; the images are known to many and have become part of our collective consciousness. The archetypes (major arcana) and the suits (wands, swords, cups and pentacles), as well as court cards, offer us access to the many scenarios, potential actions and energies present in our life experiences.

What does this have to do with yoga?

How do yoga and tarot come together?

Interestingly enough, these two different systems of self-exploration make an excellent match. Many of the postures of yoga are representative of the archetypes we find in the tarot. For example, plank pose or four-limbed staff pose connects well to the Emperor card. This energy is dynamic, structured, masculine and connected to the number four, the number of foundation.

The suits of tarot represent the qualities of fire, air, water and earth—just as our yoga practice embodies the five elements. The element of space becomes the container where everything comes together, just like the yoga mat is the space for change and self-knowing. The court cards, which represent people in our lives, become the many faces that we are and have experienced over time.

Guided meditation is also a powerful practice when we use the archetypes for exploration and personal growth. Our imaginations just seem to flow a bit easier when we feel connected through images that are in the collective awareness. It is also a wonderful practice at the end of yoga movement, as the body and thinking mind have had some release and the subconscious mind is encouraged to rise to the surface. Meditating on images from the tarot—such as the High Priestess—can access powerful information about our own intuitive nature. Even for those who are not particularly visual, when space is created, sensations and deeper awareness can arise. This is another wonderful blending of yoga practice and imagery from our modern tarot system.

In this age of change and seeking, we are all being guided to transcend the old patterns and awaken our own inner magic. One might choose to select tarot cards to set intention, meditate on images or use the tarot as an integration practice at the end of a traditional yoga class. Pairing these two popular and experiential systems together can be a powerful way to redirect focus and move ahead with a greater sense of intuition, overall well-being and balance in body, mind and spirit.

Alison DeNicola is a Connecticut-based teacher of yoga, meditation, energy and tarot. She is the author of five inspirational card decks, all published by US Games Systems Inc. She will be teaching a Kripalu weekend workshop, “Awaken Your Inner Magic: Yoga and Tarot”, with author Sasha Graham, in February. Connect with her at AllieDeNicola@gmail.com or AlisonDeNicola.com.

January 2019

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Health from a Multicultural Lens Ancient Wisdom Provides Drug Alternatives

M

by Gina Cronin

ore often than not, when someone hears the word “medicine,” they think pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter drugs. However, medicine, when looked at through a global lens, encompasses quite a bit more than can be packed into a pill.

Whether we are looking toward the healing wisdom of ancient China or India, one thing appears to be consistent: balance.

Ayurveda, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine all aim to bring harmony to the physical, spiritual and energetic systems of the body. Rather than single out a specific symptom in a specific area with a specific active ingredient, these therapies look toward the whole body with whole remedies.

These treatments are not intended to replace Western medicine, but rather supplement it. When constructing a well-rounded wellness plan, it’s wise to take advantage of both conventional and complementary medicine.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is at least 4,700 years old.

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The practice acknowledges that energy, or qi in Chinese, is the foundation of all movement. All the systems of our bodies—the nervous system, digestive system, circulatory system, immune system and the other major systems—function based on energy. Energy can take many forms, including light, sound, heat, electric, magnetic or kinesthetic. All of these are present in the human body. Energy also carries information.

“In Chinese medicine, we work with various health issues on an energetic basis,” says Jampa Stewart, a board-certified acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner from Valley Spirit Wellness Center in Washington Depot. “Pain and other issues are generally caused by stagnant qi or blood.”

Qi flows through the body very similarly to blood in the circulatory system.

There are 72 major energy meridians, and countless energy capillaries along the way.

There are also 360 main junctures, known as acupoints, each with a specific function.

“At times, because the body is inter-

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connected, the function might be quite remote from the point,” says Stewart. “For example, on the foot there are points for headache, on the wrist there are points for the lungs and heart, and on the ankle there are points for the kidneys.”

Once a proper diagnosis has been made, the correlating acupoints can be stimulated in a variety of ways: by pressure with acupressure; heat with moxibustion; energy transmission with qigong; or by painless, hair-thin needles with acupuncture. Through this stimulation, stagnant blood or qi can be released, restoring vitality, relieving pain and stiffness, and producing a state of relaxation and well-being.

Acupuncture has successfully treated a range of conditions, from headaches and arthritis to depression and thyroid issues.

In fact, within six months of working with depressed patients in conjunction with their primary doctors, Stewart has been able to permanently wean them off antidepressants by way of acupuncture, herbs and meditation exercises.

“Just because the more popular medicine says there is no cure for something, it doesn’t mean that is necessarily the case.

It just means Western medicine has no answer to that specific problem,” Stewart says. “I’ve seen stage 4 cancer patients completely cure themselves through diet, qigong exercises and meditation—and the same is true with heart disease patients.

In some cases, it’s simply a matter of being open to something different.”

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Herbal remedies are another integral component to Chinese medicine. Chinese herbal medicine is considered one of the most sophisticated forms of herbal medicine in the world, in that there are very few conditions treated with just one herb.

For each individual patient, a formula is created; typically each formula has at least four or more different herbs in it.

Traditionally, herbal formulas are all made with whole herbs, whether they are are raw, cooked, toasted or honey-roasted.

They are mixed according to weight.

Custom herbal formulas are available

powdered, in tinctures or in capsules. The form is usually based on preference of the practitioner and/or the patient.

Rather than a particular active ingredient in a plant being isolated or synthesized—as is the case in Western pharmaceutical drugs—the whole herb is used in Chinese medicine. The reason for this is that nature provides a balanced remedy. The active compound is one aspect, but there are often other bioactive compounds in the plant that can help fight potential side effects, while aiding in better absorption. For example, you may take a vitamin C supplement, but without the accompanying bioflavonoids found in the whole form, the effects may not be the same.

“Western medicine is more physically and chemically oriented in its approach, whereas Eastern medicine is very energetically oriented,” says Stewart. “Western medicine, in its diagnosis and treatment, is more of a reductionist form of evaluation. This is why we end up with so many medical specialties, such as doctors who work exclusively on the foot, the heart, the lungs, the nervous system.”

In Chinese medicine, the body is viewed more holistically; everything is seen as being interconnected and interdependent.

The idea is to bring the body’s systems back into balance and to recognize the interactions of various systems of the body with each other. It relies on the body’s ability to make its own medicine.

Ayurveda

Ayurvedic wisdom from India stems back thousands of years ago to the Vedas. The Vedas are made up of four books, and a subbranch of one is Ayurveda, which translates from Sanskrit to the “knowledge of life.” Ayurvedic doctors use food, supplements, colon cleansing, pranayama (breathing exercises) and yoga to create pure circulation in the body. Ayurveda looks deeply at the philosophy of food as medicine.

“In this ancient practice, we look at the patient’s tongue and pulse to determine body type, detect toxicities and imbalances, and create personalized treatment plans from there,” says Neeru Kaushik, ND, of the Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies in Fairfield.

According to Ayurveda, there are three main body types, or doshas, that compose the shape, form and function of an individual. The presence and proportion of these three doshas are central to an individual’s unique response to everyday stimuli.

“The doshas are made from the five elements: space, air, fire, water and earth,” says Kaushik.

The first dosha is called vata. It is a combination of space and air, and controls the external and internal moment, which is essentially all external movement (walking, talking, blinking) and internal movement (circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and digestive system).

The second dosha is pitta, which is a combination of fire and water. “Water and fire are the strongest sources of energy in

the universe,” says Kaushik. When combined, they control metabolism, all hormones, all enzymes and all chemical reactions.

All actions in the body are controlled by pitta.

Third is kapha, which is water and earth. It is the structure and material of the body, which controls bones, ligaments, tissues and fat. What a person looks like structurally comes from kapha.

“Each of us has all three: structure, chemical reaction and moment. Depending upon which is the highest and second highest in majority, that’s how we know what is our body type,” Kaushik says. The three doshas can bring both good and bad. Someone who is primarily vata will have great circulation, but may deal with dry skin and hair, wrinkles, or faster heartbeat and nerve function.

Someone with pitta may have a ton of energy, but the high heat in the body may cause constipation, inflammation, issues with the glands and hair loss. Finally, those with kapha may have a solid physical body, but be prone to weight gain and sluggishness.

After determining the body type, whether vata-pitta or kapha-vata, or whatever combination it may be, an Ayurvedic doctor can suggest foods, supplements, activities and other treatments that can bring all three doshas into balance.

“For example, if somebody has high kapha, with symptoms like sluggishness, chest congestion and a stuffy nose, I would choose foods and herbs that bring down kapha or increase pita, such as ginger tea, black pepper, cinnamon and cloves. I would also suggest that they reduce or eliminate foods like cake, cheese and ice cream,” says Kaushik.

Another therapy in Ayurveda is called panchakarma, which translates from Sanskrit to “five actions” or “five treatments.” This is a deep purification therapy that relieves the body of toxins, and includes massage; stream of herbal oil to the forehead; herbal steam bath; herbal enemas; and rejuvenation of the eyes and nasal passage.

“Culture is a collection of people who live in circumstances that become their way of living,” says Kaushik. “Oftentimes, in the west, people start becoming fragile after 40 or 50 years; they believe that’s just how it is. But when you look to other cultures that have optimum diet and health built into the foundation, people soar into their 80s and 90s with nearly no health issues.”

More and more, people are realizing that they can reclaim their health without drugs through practices like Ayurveda, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

Valley Spirit Wellness Center is located at 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot. For more information, visit ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies is located at 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield. For more information, visit AyurvedicInstituteCT.com.

Gina Cronin is a writer for Natural Awakenings Magazine.

Connect with her at GinaImagines.com.

January 2019

25

EARTH MEDICINE Indigenous Practices Emphasize Balance

I

by Gina Cronin

ndigenous wisdom brings forth the view that health comes not only from balance within the body, but balance with the planet as well. “One of the main things that I’ve learned from the Q’ero tribe in the Andes Mountains of Peru is their love and respect for Mother Earth, known as Pachamama,” says Deana Paqua, a shamanic practitioner and faculty member at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury.

She describes that one of the foundational teachings of the Andes is ayni, or sacred reciprocity. “If you ask for anything from the creator, the universe, or our ancestors, you must give something first,” Paqua describes. “When you are in a balanced state of giving and receiving with 26

the earth as well as your community, life is more harmonious.”

Paqua has sat in many despacho ceremonies in her visits to Peru, where the aim was to deeply express thanks while making offerings to Pachamama. This state of openness and gratitude allows one to become a vessel for grace and healing.

During her healing sessions, Paqua draws from Reiki, some of the Andean healing techniques that she has been given permission to share, and wisdom from her teacher, Lama Lobsang Palden of Tibet.

“My underlying philosophy is no matter what a client comes in with— physical pain, emotional distress, spiritual concerns—I help facilitate energy cleansing and empowerment for the

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client from spiritual connections with the earth, ancestors, guides and angels,” says Paqua. She may use a portable Andean altar of sacred items, known as a mesa, as well as voice, rattles, drums, stones, the burning of palo santo for cleansing, hands-on healing and more. Key advice that she follows from one of her teachers from the Andes, Don Mariano Quispe Flores, is, “heal yourself and keep your ego out of it.”

Herman Olivera also is a shamanic practitioner and teacher in the Andean and Amazonian traditions. His mission and purpose is to demystify shamanism, making it more accessible so people can integrate it into their daily lives.

“Shamanism isn’t a religion, and even though we work with spirit, it’s not even spirituality. It is survival. That’s all it is,” says Olivera. “One of the key ingredients to leading a balanced life is living with an attitude of gratitude; when you spend time in indigenous communities, you see that they take nothing for granted.”

He keeps his healing sessions as simple and straightforward as possible, using the power of sound with items like sticks, stones, bones, voice, chakapa (rattle made from bundled leaves) and drums to facilitate healing. He also does some body work.

“At the end of the day, all that I’m doing is removing blockages so people can have a steady flow. I help guide the removal of stones so the river of life can flow,” says Olivera. “It is our right as spiritual beings having a human experience to heal ourselves. You don’t have to be initiated into a tribe; we’re all part of a bigger tribe, we are all healers.”

He is extremely passionate about sharing the philosophy that this healing belongs to everyone. Many people have lost their way and don’t trust in their own intuition, Olivera continues. However, once a person is empowered with some simple practices for well-being—be it a single drum for journeying or a couple hours sitting beside the ocean—they can unlock the potential they already have within.

“Looking back it’s very easy to see the difference between modern man and indigenous cultures, and that’s coexistence,” says Olivera. “All was one, all was connected, and day-to-day nature was the key ingredient.”

In gaining a multicultural perspective of health, we come to embrace the natural processes and balances within ourselves and the world around us.

Shaman the Word

Olivera and Paqua refer to themselves as shamanic practitioners, not shamans.

They explain that the Western mind has come to define all spirit medicine as shamanism. Many healers will refer to themselves as shamanic practitioners to be more easily identifiable to their audience.

Olivera and Paqua stress that shamanism is a term that is exclusively derived from the Tongas tribe in Siberia. It is not a term used in the Andes or the Amazon. Indigenous groups across the globe have their own unique titles with which to address their medicine men and women. These men and women often dedicate a solid 10 to 30 or more years to developing this position in their community.

“For people of the West to visit a few times, learn some wisdom that the indigenous people were gracious enough to share, then come back and call themselves a shaman or other sacred title is just disrespectful,” says Paqua.

“If anyone tells you they are a master, or someone hands you a business card that says they are a shaman, say thank you and walk away,” Olivera adds. He explains that it’s not a term of endearment; it’s serious work, not a title to bestow upon oneself as a practitioner.

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Gina Cronin is a writer for Natural Awakenings Magazine. Connect with her at GinaImagines.com.

∠ 䴀漀搀椀昀礀 礀漀甀爀 椀渀栀攀爀椀琀攀搀 栀攀愀氀琀栀 爀椀猀欀猀⸀ ∠ 䰀攀愀爀渀 栀漀眀 礀漀甀 甀琀椀氀椀稀攀 渀甀琀爀椀攀渀琀猀 愀渀搀 昀椀渀攀 琀甀渀攀 礀漀甀爀 渀甀琀爀椀琀椀漀渀⸀ ∠ 䔀渀栀愀渀挀攀 礀漀甀爀 戀漀搀礀 挀漀洀瀀漀猀椀琀椀漀渀 眀椀琀栀 攀砀攀爀挀椀猀攀 愀渀搀 搀椀攀琀 猀瀀攀挀椀昀椀挀 昀漀爀 礀漀甀爀 最攀渀漀琀礀瀀攀⸀ ∠ 刀攀猀琀漀爀攀 愀 栀攀愀氀琀栀礀 最甀琀 洀椀挀爀漀戀椀漀洀攀⸀

㌀㈀㔀 刀攀攀昀 刀漀愀搀Ⰰ 匀甀椀琀攀 ㄀ ㄀Ⰰ 䘀愀椀爀昀椀攀氀搀Ⰰ 䌀吀

搀爀瀀愀洀攀氀愀最攀漀爀最攀⸀挀漀洀 ∠

January 2019

27

Physical Activity

Natural Strategies for Staying Sharp How a Healthy Brain Avoids Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s

by Nicole Klughers

F

rom students to seniors, having a sharp mind is greatly valuable. Thoughts, experiences and senses drive our mental state in a process called cognition. Our cognition involves memory and learning—allowing for the successful completion of everyday tasks, making decisions and understanding information.

Having minor memory shortfalls that do not significantly impact daily functioning is termed mild cognitive impairment (MCI). According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it is estimated that up to 20 percent of people over 65 years of age have MCI, and people with MCI are much more likely to develop dementia. Dementia involves serious deviations in memory, personality changes or 28

compromised reasoning which interfere with the ability of an individual to live independently. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, and every 65 seconds an American is diagnosed with this disease.

In a study published in The Lancet in 2017, “Dementia Prevention, Intervention and Care”, it was estimated that two out of every three cases of dementia could be prevented through natural health strategies. A natural approach to improve life-long cognitive function involves reducing risk factors and optimizing health through natural medicines and lifestyle adjustments. There are various aspects of our health and wellness which influence the ability to attain and maintain a sharp mind.

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Individuals with high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop dementia than those with normal weight, according to a 2018 Alzheimer’s & Dementia study of 1.3 million individuals. Confirmed by abundant evidence, physical activity improves cognition in people of all ages, increases memory in older adults and results in anti-aging changes to the brain structure.

Cardiorespiratory activity includes any movement that increases breathing and heart rate, such as speed walking, jogging, running, martial arts, swimming, rowing, boxing, skiing, snowboarding, dancing or biking. Engaging in two hours of moderate cardiorespiratory activity per week can help to protect memory and cognition.

Sleep

Sleep is essential for healthy cognitive function. Extensive research published in Sleep journal in 2017 reveals that individuals with trouble sleeping have almost double the risk of cognitive impairment, and estimates that 15 percent of AD may be a result of sleep problems. Identifying and addressing the cause of sleep disturbances is preferable to sleep medications, since the majority of prescription and over-the-counter sleep medicines are associated with increased incidence of dementia.

Between seven and eight hours of nightly sleep has shown to reduce risk of chronic diseases like dementia. Practicing good sleep hygiene is crucial in fulfilling these recommendations. Good sleep hygiene includes having a regular bed time, avoiding eating meals or viewing any screens at least two hours prior to sleep and sleeping in a completely dark room.

For occasional sleeplessness, there are a number of natural remedies which also support healthy mental status.

Glycine is a compound with plenty of anti-aging benefits and roles in brain and immune function. Glycine is made in the body, yet intake may also come from food

sources or a supplement. Three grams of glycine amino acid supplementation prior to bedtime has been shown to increase sleep quality, as well as memory and daytime alertness.

Studies found honey to have brainprotective and memory supporting properties. One teaspoon of raw honey, before bedtime, can also aid in the production of sleep-assisting hormones such as serotonin and melatonin, and minimize nighttime wake-ups. Melatonin is not only essential for restful sleep, but also has strong protective properties for brain cells. Melatonin supplementation has been found to be especially helpful in those with mild cognitive impairment or AD.

Nutrition

Nutrition is required for everyday bodily functions and research also demonstrates that nutrition is useful in both the treatment and long-term prevention of disease. Although fresh vegetables and fruits are essential to maintain cognitive

health, so are healthful dietary fats. Sixty percent of the human brain consists of fat. The type of dietary fat determines the influence on cognitive and overall health.

Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have shown to have the greatest benefit on cognition. Optimal sources include nuts (almond, cashew, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio, walnut), seeds (chia, flax, hemp, pumpkin, sesame, sunflower), olive oil, some fish (anchovies, herring, trout, salmon, sardines) and avocado. According to studies in The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, a diet high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats has been found to enhance learning, slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of AD.

Herbal Medicine

Similar to nutrition, herbs have many therapeutic applications. Herbal medicine can be consumed in the form of teas, pills, liquid extracts or used in cooking. There are a large number of herbal medicines that have been studied for their positive

effects on cognitive function. As with all herbal medicines or dietary supplements, consult with your practitioner for safe usage and individualized dosing recommendations.

Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) is widely known for its stress-relieving properties, yet research in Journal of Dietary Supplements finds ashwagandha also aids memory in those with MCI, increases attention, and enhances the ability to process information. Many studies have shown that Curcuma longa (turmeric) plays a role in the prevention and treatment of AD by enhancing cognition through various cell-protecting, inflammation-reducing and toxin-eliminating properties.

In addition, Bacopa monierri and Ginkgo biloba have been studied for memory boosting benefits. Research reveals Cannabis sativa (hemp) to have extensive brain regenerative properties, contributed to its medicinal parts, including cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids.

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29

Cholesterol &

Hormonal Balance

About 25 percent of the body’s cholesterol is found in the brain. Cholesterol is made in the liver and required to build every human cell and hormone. Hormones are chemical messengers which influence our ability to think clearly and remember information. Having blood cholesterol levels that are too low can result in a measurable loss in cognitive functioning.

When reviewing data from the Framingham Heart Study, individuals with the lowest levels of cholesterol had the poorest memory and concentration.

Declines in hormones such as estrogen and testosterone are associated with cognitive decline, whereas elevations in the “stress hormone” called cortisol are associated with poorer cognitive function.

Also known as the “anti-aging” hormone, lower amounts of a hormone called pregnenolone is associated with AD. A hormone called DHEA-S, the “youth hormone”, supports various functions in the brain, including brain cell protection and regeneration. A study in The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology found that low DHEA-S has been seen in those with cognitive impairment.

It may be helpful to have hormonal assessment through blood or salivary

tests. If cholesterol is elevated, more detailed blood tests are available to determine the particular type of cholesterol, as this relates to disease risk. There are many natural strategies which serve to reestablish both cholesterol and hormonal balance to improve mental functions and prevent cognitive decline.

Environmental Toxins

The exposure to environmental toxins is inevitable. Aluminum, cadmium, lead and mercury are some of the most common toxic metals associated with cognitive decline. Long-term exposure to moderate air pollution was found to damage brain structures and impair cognitive function, in a 2012 study in Archives of Internal Medicine.

Utilizing a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration and water purification system can help to reduce exposure to some environmental toxins. Other ways to reduce exposure to environmental toxins include: minimizing dietary intake of high mercury-containing fish (tuna, swordfish, tilefish, mackerel, bluefish, shark), avoiding tobacco use and using glass or stainless-steel cookware instead of aluminum. Testing of toxic metals can be done with urine or hair samples, and a variety of natural therapies

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exist to support improved elimination of toxins from the body.

Take Action

Just like our body, our mind requires proper care for longevity. There are many aspects of health which influence cognition, some of which were briefly reviewed in this article. Physicians can assist in identifying risk factors for cognitive decline such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, depression, anxiety, hypothyroidism or chronic stress. Naturopathic physicians implement natural therapies and encourage beneficial lifestyle habits, which show promising results in prevention and treatment of cognitive decline.

For more information on cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s, visit Alz.org.

Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc is a licensed naturopathic physician, acupuncturist, wellness educator and former pharmacist. She offers comprehensive naturopathic care at Vis Wellness Center in Rocky Hill. She utilizes all-natural solutions to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Connect at 234-2-ACUDOC, Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com, DrNicoleKlughers.com or Facebook.com/DrNicoleKlughers.

We treat the following conditions: ADHD / ADD / Executive Functioning Anxiety & Anxiety-Related Disorders Autism Behavioral & Social Issues Chronic Pain / Fibromyalgia Concussion / TBI Depression / Mood Issues Learning Disability / Dyslexia Lyme, PANDAS/PANS Chronic Health Conditions PTSD / Trauma Seizures Sleep Problems

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by Roseann Capanna-Hodge

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hen we consider treatments for anxiety and depression, there is a pervasive false belief that pharmacological interventions are the only effective treatment. The truth is that other potentially more effective treatments than medication do exist and the central nervous system (CNS) can be regulated through these clinically valid therapies.

Addressing how the CNS responds to stress is an important first step that many natural therapies effectively cover. When we are under stress, these brain structures jump into action and prepare for a crisis, which then triggers the fight-or-flight

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response. The amygdala and hippocampus have a major role in emotional regulation and stress responses. They are part of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis that can cause the CNS to react strongly to stimuli.

The amygdala overrides the prefrontal cortex when involved with the fight-or-flight system. Without good prefrontal control, the amygdala hijacks the brain. That means we react in less rational ways because the brain has gone into survival mode. Calming the CNS is critical in reducing anxiety and depression. Here are six natural therapies for anxiety and depression with research that supports their efficacy.

Neurofeedback

This is a highly researched and effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including anxiety and depression, as documented through 3,000 peer-reviewed studies. Brain functioning is monitored through computers during a session and that live feedback is shown to the client. A person is trained to promote or reduce different brainwave frequencies; the brain is then rewarded for changing its activity to produce more appropriate patterns.

Through this reinforcement, new electrical activity is produced in the brain, and the brainwave activity is “shaped” toward a more desirable, more regulated performance. These changes result in a reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms as the brain learns to self-regulate and be calmed.

Biofeedback

We can use this technique to learn to control the body’s functions, such as heart rate, skin temperature or breath. When we have anxiety and depression, learning how to self-regulate our bodily functions can reduce stress by balancing the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system.

With biofeedback, we are connected to electrical sensors that measure and give information (feedback) about the body (bio). This feedback helps us focus on making subtle changes in the body—such as relaxing certain muscles—to achieve the desired results. The results can be pain reduction or body temperature control to reduce stress. Biofeedback differs from neurofeedback because it requires conscious control over our thoughts and autonomic functions. Biofeedback gives us the power to use thoughts to control the body, often reducing stress or improving a health condition or physical performance.

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Pulsed Electromagnetic Field and Bioregulation Therapy

Bioregulation therapy (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses biofeedback and pulsed electromagnetic field-based (PEMF) electromagnetic technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It helps to align the body so the brain can work better.

BRT is a body-balancing method where a computer reads the electrical impulses (frequencies) being emitted by the body.

BRT signals target very specific communication channels in order to clear blockages and restore communication pathways.

It does this by filtering out the disharmonic “unhealthy” vibrations that interfere with optimal cell communication in order to promote optimal functioning. During a therapeutic session, “healthy” harmonic frequencies are amplified and then sent back to the cells. These harmonic frequencies invigorate the cells and promote beneficial cellular communication. The nervous system calms down once the cells are working more optimally.

It diminishes disruptive signals, such as pain or anxiety, which have become magnified over time. With feedback, the cells better

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align themselves within the organ system and entire body, typically resulting in feelings of wellness.

Audiovisual Entrainment

Audiovisual entrainment (AVE) is a technique that uses pulses of light and sound at specific frequencies to safely and gently guide brainwave patterns. Through a process of entrainment, which is the tendency of physiological processes to mirror environmental stimuli, AVE regulates brainwave functioning. By presenting combined pulsed audio and visual stimulation to the brain, over a period of time the brain begins to resonate at the same frequency as the stimuli. It also increases cerebral blood flow in the brain, as well as impacts the electrical activity of the brain.

AVE increases the metabolization of glucose in the brain for improved functioning of the neurons. The combined action of these processes results in improved mental performance and focus, and quiets internal dialogue or chatter, which are often negatively impacted by anxiety and depression.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can help with a lingering issue, such as childhood wounds. It also aids in gaining support for a new problem, like parenting support, addressing

anxiety or managing depression. A good therapist will help support us in adopting healthy new habits and gaining new skills.

The problem with talk therapy is that it doesn’t address the underlying CNS dysregulation resulting from anxiety and depression, and which often leaves individuals feeling activated. In other words, when we talk about a stressor, our CNS goes into a hyper state and can’t regulate; we often feel physically or emotionally agitated. This agitated state makes the reasoning process in a traditional talk therapy session almost impossible as people can’t access their rational brain and think clearly. A good therapist has additional tools to help calm the nervous system, such as biofeedback, neurofeedback, meditation, play and art therapy, EFT/Tapping, and EMDR to calm the nervous system before introducing cognitive behavioral therapy. Once regulated, psychotherapy can address looping thoughts, negative beliefs, worrisome thoughts, moods, behavioral regulation or other issues that need to be addressed.

of a licensed professional. EFT works like emotional acupressure to quickly, gently and easily release negative emotions and beliefs that are at the root of the problem.

EFT is a form of psychological acupressure, based on the same energy meridians used in traditional acupuncture to treat physical and emotional ailments for over 5,000 years. Simple tapping with the fingertips is used to input kinetic energy onto specific meridians on the head and chest while we think about our specific problem and make statements.

Not only is EFT a self-help tool but, when done under the care of a licensed psychotherapist, it is a therapeutic technique. As a self-help tool, one can use EFT for anxiety, stress management and wellness promotion. When done in a therapy session with a licensed psychotherapist, EFT helps address clinical issues such as anxiety and depression.

Emotional Freedom Technique/Tapping

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge is an integrative psychologist and certified neurofeedback practitioner with offices in Ridgefield and Newtown. She can be reached at 203438-4848 or Info@DRoseann.com.

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Emotional freedom technique (EFT), often referred to as tapping, is a tool used for physical, emotional and performance issues. It should be done under the care

When looking for clinically valid natural treatments for anxiety or depression, consider these research-based therapies.

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Gender Differences

conscious eating I believe our plate is a reflection of our inner state. ~Carly Pollack, author of Feed Your Soul

BEFRIENDING FOOD

Embrace the Psychology of Eating

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by Marlaina Donato

nyone that has struggled to lose weight, eat right or deal with an eating disorder is familiar with the emotional battle that can evolve from the simple act of seeking sustenance.

“The black-and-white mentality of needing to be perfect or counting calories leads us into a rabbit hole of bingeing, dieting and stuck in a love/hate relationship with food,” says Carly Pollack, whose new book, Feed Your Soul: Nutritional Wisdom to Lose Weight Permanently and Live Fulfilled, comes out next month.

“We live in a society that is obsessed with mainstream media and celebrity culture,” says Pollack. “Poor body image and an unhealthy relationship with food are synonymous. You can’t have one without the other.”

Enter the psychology of eating, a movement built upon a mindset that reshapes our relationship to food, focusing on emotions, beliefs and physiological responses. These insights, grounded in research, offer empowering new perspectives.

Mind Games

Nutritional Psychologist Marc David, who highlights research on the food/ mind connection in his book The Slow Down Diet: Eating for Pleasure, Energy, and Weight Loss, says our thoughts about what is on our plates have even more impact on our physiological responses than vitamins or minerals. Guilt about consuming certain foods can slow digestion and increase chemical responses that store fat, while enjoying the same foods without stress can boost metabolism and nutritional absorption.

“The most important aspect of creating and maintaining a healthy relationship with food is to bring awareness to our thoughts and behaviors around food,” says Pollack, founder of Nutritional Wisdom, a holistic practice based in Austin.

Simplicity, eating real food and unraveling perceptions are paramount. “With all of the information overload out there, ‘eating right’ has turned into ‘eating perfectly,’” Pollack says. “I believe our plate is a reflection of our inner state.”

Fear-based approaches to eating generally and eating to cope with emotions are seen often as primarily women’s struggles, but a high percentage of men also suffer. In fact, according to Marc David’s Institute for the Psychology of Eating, 40 percent of binge eaters are male.

“Women’s food issues spring from the cultural pressure to prioritize their appearance over their wisdom, while men may turn to food to deal with career pressure,” says Harriet Morris, who hosts The Eating Coach podcast in Shropshire, England. “I’ve found, too, that both men and women use food as a way to avoid dealing with issues around sexuality, but their needs are very distinct.”

Because a man’s sense of self is much more linked to his sexuality, food can be used to avoid dealing with aspects of male sexuality he is uncomfortable with, says Morris. “Work with my male clients is about avoiding perfectionism and opting instead for a powerful kind of ‘imperfectionism’ where strength allows for pleasure. This—not a Marvel superhero—is a real man.”

Regardless of gender, changing perspective is key, adds Morris. “Our problem is not food. Bulimia, excess weight, IBS [irritable bowel syndrome] and a whole host of other issues are teachers, not enemies. We have, for very good reasons, been using food as a life manager,” she says.

In the end, nourishing ourselves on all levels is what it’s all about, says Pollack. “Our relationship with food gives us the opportunity to examine our relationship to ourselves, our sense of worth, who we think we are, what we feel we deserve and how we show up day-to-day in this body for this beautiful life we’ve been given.”

Marlaina Donato is the author of Multidimensional Aromatherapy. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

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Speaking Live from Inside Addressing Mental Health Concerns

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by Rebecca Schoenewolf

n recent years, there has been a decline in the stigmatization of mental health.

At the same time, there have been more frequent conversations around what mental health issues are and how to best support someone who has mental health issues. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is an organization that offers support and guidance for people who struggle with mental health issues, and their families and friends. Here are a few of their suggestions from the organization’s “Tips for How to Help a Person with Mental Illness” article on how to speak with someone who suffers from mental health issues.

• Speak to them in a calm, relaxed manner • Be respectful, compassionate and empathetic by using reflective language • Be a good listener • Try to avoid telling them to just pray about it or advise on what they need to do • Avoid talking at them too rapidly or loudly 36

Notice that the recommendations are common to how many of us wish to be spoken to when we are in conversations.

NAMI states that one out of five people live with a diagnosed mental illness. What isn’t explicitly stated is that everyone experiences debilitating events in their lives. Where there is divergence is in how each of us cope with those events. That is dependent on factors such as our natural personality and personal belief system, our formative years, and our perception of events.

Everyone has experienced trauma in some form, whether it was bullying, losing a best friend to another friend, losing a loved one, war, abuse, family dysfunction or something else. How we respond to these events is guided by factors such as the degree of severity of the events, when they occurred, our natural personality, the implicit and explicit training on how to behave during our formative years, and how we think about the events. All of these factors then intersect with the natural, biological responses embedded in our systems as well.

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When mental health issues are viewed as coping skills and neurobiology in action, behaviors and thought patterns make sense in that they developed in response to (perceived) threats to our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual equilibrium. This does not mean that the coping skills are healthy. For example, when someone thinks they see their abusive perpetrator on the streets, they can go into the fight-flight-freeze responses. This may come in the form of attacking that person (fight), suddenly running away (flight), dissociating and not being able to focus (flight), or standing still unable to move (freeze). When someone is feeling emotionally overwhelmed and the system interprets this overwhelm as a threat to the survival of the person, cutting themselves may feel like an appropriate response to alleviate the overwhelming emotions or thoughts by turning the emotional and mental anguish into a more easily definable, manageable pain.

There is now a deeper understanding of people with mental health issues through the continued development of the psychology field in conjunction with the science of neurobiology. This is resulting in more effective methods for guiding people into healthier lifestyles. Internal Family Systems is a relatively new clinical method to heal mental and emotional wounds. Richard Schwartz, who is the creator of this method, posits that we all have a “multiplicity of the mind” (Treating Complex Trauma with Internal Family Systems workshop, 2018). Each of us contains a core self and three main types of internal parts: “exiles” who carry the wounds, “firefighters” who operate to stop the pain, and “managers” who prevent the wounds from getting triggered. All parts are welcome, have good intentions and seek relief. Yet, as with every family, sometimes the parts clash in an internal conflict that comes out in seemingly irrational behaviors or statements. What may seem to anyone outside the person to be irrational behavior makes sense when viewed as an internal “family” struggle.

The following examples offer another way to view it. In cartoons, the internal conflict is sometimes shown as the devil on one shoulder and the angel on the other with the character caught in the middle.

The Pixar movie, Inside Out, demonstrates a more sophisticated version of this, capturing how each character has internal conversations as they are navigating external conversations. This is in each of us, with the only difference being how differentiated or cohesive our internal systems are. If we understand how complex each of us is, and that we are all operating from a place of desiring healing and no pain, we can become more compassionate and are able to engage in more effective dialogue.

One practical approach to irrational thought patterns or behaviors is to ask open-ended questions starting with how or what. Questions starting with these words tend to generate a less defensive response than why questions. What and how questions also need to be coupled with a non-judgmental tone of voice. When we

ask ourselves or other people questions in order to understand actions or ideas, it is important to keep in mind the difference between criticism and judgment. Criticism asks a person to examine their behaviors and ideas in order to come to greater understanding or change. Judgment engenders no understanding or change.

Think of the difference between these two questions and see which one you would prefer to answer • “Why did you do/say that?”

• “What led you to that behavior/idea?” or “How did you come to that conclusion?”

The first statement infers a judgmental tone that decreases reflection and personal responsibility, and increases defensiveness. The second tends to generate a critical tone that increases reflection and personal responsibility, and decreases defensiveness. Of course, these are generalized statements because someone whose “firefighter” is active is going to

respond defensively no matter what. But understanding that we are talking with the “firefighter” can change how we interact with them, and change the outcome of the conversation.

Overall, communication is a complex system and mistakes will be made. Taking personal responsibility for the part we play when a conversation goes wrong can make a huge difference in how the relationship changes and progresses. There is no one way to do this. There is no direct “right” or “wrong” way to do this. All we can do is remain as compassionate, flexible, open and present as possible in the available conversational moments.

Rebecca Schoenewolf, LMHC, LPC, RMT, holds a master's degree in holistic counseling, and is a Reiki Master and teacher in both Usui and Holy Fire Reiki. She has private practices in Danbury and Brookfield. She can be reached at 203-826-2558, or visit her on Psychology Today or at RSHolisticServices.com.

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Past Traumas

DEMYSTIFYING ADDICTION How to Mitigate Common Risk Factors

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by Nadia Noori

ddiction is so common in our society that most people have battled it themselves, or have someone close to them who has struggled with it.

While addictions to drugs—both prescription and illicit—and alcohol are most commonly talked about, addiction can stretch to anything, including food, exercise, sex, sugar and even technology. Many different things can lead to addictive tendencies that usually appear benign; however, over time, they begin negatively impacting the lives of many around that person.

Here are some common denominators that require attention and evaluation if we want to address recovery, or if we think we might be susceptible to addiction and want to help guard against it.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Our bodies know when something is missing; they tell us in ways that are both 38

subtle and not. We just have to be better about listening. For instance, when blood sugar drops, we may find ourselves craving something sweet. Vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies mean our bodies are no longer in a state of balance; we begin to experience cravings. The nutrients we may be lacking—from vitamins A to zinc, fatty acids, protein and more—are necessary for the production of important hormones, neurotransmitter functioning and, ultimately, feeling and living well.

Addiction leads us into a vicious cycle where it may have initially resulted from nutrient deficiencies, but then our ability is hindered to nourish the body in the way that it needs in order to exit the cycle. It is important to complete lab work that tests for nutritional deficiencies and work with a healthcare provider to develop a health plan to get back into balance.

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At some point in our lives, a curious friend or a skilled massage therapist probably asked us where we might hold tension in our bodies. Another good question to ask is where we feel we are storing our past traumas.

The reality is that our experiences and emotions are key factors when it comes to our tendencies, mindsets and behaviors.

Unacknowledged and untreated trauma plays a huge role in addiction. The “selfmedicating” term is used for those who deal with difficult emotions or states of being by drinking heavily, overeating, or engaging in patterns of risky behavior to numb pain or fill a void. In the absence of healthy coping mechanisms and trauma processing, many people fall prey to addiction. It’s important to not only recognize the traumas, but to work through them so that they don’t sneakily control us.

Head Injuries

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) sufferers are at a higher risk for drug and alcohol abuse and addiction. These injuries can disrupt the way the brain normally processes information, weighs risk/benefit, manages inhibitions and makes decisions.

If a head injury occurs, get checked out immediately, and follow up with a healthcare provider for further tests and monitoring. Past head traumas can leave residual impacts, so it is crucial to keep up with regular checkups. It is also important to let the healthcare provider know of any changes in behaviors, cravings, tendencies and mental processes. And if a head injury is part of the landscape of the addiction, then it must be taken into account as part of the roadmap for recovery.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is another circumstance that can lead to addiction, especially if opioid painkillers have been prescribed or alcohol is being used to make the pain more bearable. Being in a constant state of pain or discomfort can take a toll on a person. And many of the drugs in ques-

tion are themselves highly addictive. It can be easy to seek relief in substances or even behaviors that take the pain away in the moment, but then harm us more in the long term.

For those that suffer from chronic pain, it will be useful to work with a healthcare provider to develop strategies and find non-drug therapies and practices to help best manage it. This might include physical therapy, acupuncture, craniosacral and bodywork therapies, meditation, and other alternatives. There is no reason why we can’t use these therapies in the beginning under the guidance of a healthcare provider while simultaneously digging deeper into the root cause of discomfort.

Family History

Addiction, like other illnesses, can have a strong genetic component. While there’s nothing we can do about our genetic makeup, we can certainly be aware of risk factors and work to mitigate them. It may mean avoiding the substance or behavior we worry could trigger an addiction.

Maybe it’s opening up to those close to us and ensuring they know which warning signs to watch for, and how to respond if they see them.

When it comes to recovery, it’s important to be aware of not just the genetic, but the social aspects of family history. Were there unhealthy messages we grew up with around drugs, alcohol, food or other things that can be abused and lead to addiction? Do we know our triggers and where they originate? These can be tough, painful questions, but ultimately being aware of where we are and where we’ve been can help us better plan a path forward.

Dr. Nadia Noori, ND, is a Westport-based naturopathic doctor with a general family practice. She also specializes in optimizing brain health with a focus on neurodegenerative and neuropsychological conditions.

Connect at 203-916-4600 and ShalvaClinic.org. See ad, back cover January 2019

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Radical Gratitude

A Way of Life, Not a Moment in Time

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by Donna Vella

any of us have had blissful moments where we are suddenly and simply washed over with grace and gratitude. Maybe it comes when we are sipping a hot mug of tea after a particularly long day. We are overcome with a sense of gratitude for all the blessings in our lives, such as family, freedom of choice, friendships, good health and so much more.

But then these bursts of thankfulness become just fleeting thoughts that can instantly dissolve in the mayhem of the day or what we project to be the chaos of tomorrow. With our busy lives and the bigger stress factors we face in our world, it’s no wonder we suffer from what the experts refer to as “gratitude deficient disorder.”

The Inquiry

What would happen if we could transform this ephemeral sensation of gratitude to a disposition of character? We could turn it from an emotion to a moral principle that allows us, quite literally, to create a ripple effect of well-being within our hearts, homes, workplaces and communities? It turns out we can.

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The Research

“Gratitude is the most changeable character strength because it’s about mindfulness, something anyone can do,” says Giacomo Bono, an adjunct professor of psychology at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Studies show that while genetics account for half of our happiness level, the other half is under our everyday control.

The benefits of gratitude are almost immediate.

From a scientific perspective, gratitude is more complex than a simple “thank you.” It has been depicted as an emotion, a mood, a moral virtue, a habit, a motive, a personality trait, a coping response and even a way of life.

For instance, take the emotion of gratitude. Most people report states as peaceful, warm, friendly or joyful. We are unlikely to say that gratitude makes us feel burdened, stressed or angry. This small experiment illustrates that gratitude is a positive, desirable state that people generally find enjoyable.

According to Dr. Robert Emmons, a scientific expert on gratitude and a

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psychology professor at the University of California, Davis, gratitude involves two stages. First is the acknowledgment of goodness in our lives. In other words, we have received something that gratifies us, either by its presence or by the effort the giver went into choosing it. Second, gratitude is recognizing that the source(s) of this goodness lie, at least partially, outside the self. In other words, we are grateful for other people, animals, nature and more.

Hence, the practice of gratitude involves developing a deep sense of life appreciation, allowing us to see life through a lens of abundance rather than one of scarcity.

Emmons’ research shows that gratitude is associated with a wide range of benefits on our own physical health, psychological well-being and our relationships with others. Systematically cultivating gratefulness by keeping a gratitude journal and other practices often seems so simple and basic, yet the results can be exponential.

People who practice gratitude consistently report a host of both short-term and long-term benefits, including lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system and better sleep. Fewer bouts of depression were also reported. Appreciating life buffers stress, so we’re less likely to fall prey to its perils.

An Invitation

Why not ditch the typical New Year’s resolutions and declare 2019 our year of radical gratitude? Imagine a year sprinkled with kindness, creativity, curiosity, compassion, forgiveness and patience. Research suggests that these character strengths tag along for the ride on the magical gratitude journey.

Donna Vella, CHHC, is a speaker, coach and workshop facilitator who has utilized positive psychology and nutrition for more than 20 years. She is the founder of Stamford’s Positive Living Forum. Vella holds certifications in positive psychology, teaching for transformation and holistic health coaching. Connect at 203-962-1062 and Donna@DonnaVella.life.

Cultivate Gratitude Right Now!

by Donna Vella

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ere are some exercises to cultivate awareness and gratitude. There is no “one size fits all” way of doing this. The only requirements are an open heart and mind. Some might work best when incorporated into your daily or weekly routines while others can be tried when the spirit moves you.

Random Reach Out: Reach out to someone for whom you feel grateful but do not often express your appreciation. Do it in any way that feels comfortable, whether it is an email, handwritten note, phone call or text. Be sure to tell them why you are grateful.

Greeting with Gratitude: Begin a conversation with a loved one, co-worker or friend by sharing one thing for which you feel gratitude about that other person. Expressing appreciation creates a friendly, open and honest environment which enables the increase of effective communication while increasing the potential to deepen the relationship.

Slow It Down: For the first 10 bites of every meal, be conscious of every bite that you put into your mouth. Slowly chew the food, noticing the texture, the various tastes as it dissolves, and the feeling as each swallow fills your stomach. Thank the food for nourishing you.

Notice that as you eat more slowly, you fill up faster.

Make Gratitude Fun: Have fun practicing gratitude with your kids during times when they may start to complain. Examples include long plane or car rides, or going out to eat with a large group. Go back and forth listing one thing that you are grateful for with the “winner” being the person who lists the most things that s/he is grateful for.

Evening Gratitude: To increase household community and connection with one another, make it an evening practice for each person to express one thing that s/he is grateful for that day.

Count Your Blessing, Not Sheep: When you cannot fall asleep, count your blessings instead of counting sheep. This leaves you falling asleep with gratitude in your mind instead of focusing on thoughts that may be racing through your head.

Daily Gratitude: Once a day, write down one thing you are grateful for, using a journal, notebook or online journal.

Giving Time: Volunteer your time at least once a month. Practice giving and potentially receiving gratitude for the opportunity to contribute.

Triggered? Fall back to Gratitude: Begin to notice when you are triggered. Examples of common instances where people are triggered include someone cutting you off in traffic, waiting in line at the grocery store, waiting for internet to connect, and waiting for a text to send when there is bad reception. At these times when agitation or anger or may rise within you, take three breaths and think about what you are grateful for. This will always bring you back to your center.

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New Year, New Underwear Resolve to Take Better Psychological Self-Care

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by Julie A. Levesque

ne of our clinicians believed as a child that there would be flying cars by 2019. Many of us today are thankful there are not. Resisting change is what we as humans do best, yet it is an unfortunate truth that all life thrives on constant and ever-present change, making it a necessary evil.

The same clinician with the flying car belief vowed this year to sort through and throw away all her old underwear as her annual resolution. In actuality, this is quite challenging for her, as she believes that each worn pair of underpants or socks still has the capability of enduring one last hurrah. At first glance, this might seem silly, but the underwear becomes a metaphor for change as in letting go of the past. This can be a bigger obstacle than we anticipate if the concepts of self-awareness, self-compassion and trust are not in our playbook.

One of the biggest challenges in embracing change is the negative hamster in every head. This hamster runs on his wheel of triggers, memories and assumptions that create reaction instead of response, which in turn causes chaos and misunder-

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standing. Trying to avoid this hamster is like holding on to sandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the tighter our grip becomes, the more difficult it is to control. Learning how to care for oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;self psychologically is one of the best resolutions for our year of change, as it teaches us to let go, take the leap and trust that our wings will be built on the way down.

As the holiday lights dim, and we find ourselves with gym contracts not utilized, old textbooks never read and a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in not admitting failure once again, we check in with our clinician who is now determined to honor the son she lost by loving fiercely, being kind to herself and being open to life and the opportunities it brings. There are very few certainties in this existence except for the following: the only constant is change, no one has all the answers, everyone dies, everyone poops and one is never truly alone.

Julie A Levesque, LPC, MSHSV, FMHC, CCTP, practices at Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, located at Northwood Village, 125 Main St N, Ste 2B, in Woodbury. Connect at 203-263-3175.

See ad, page 18.

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HEALTHCARE FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE Bioregulatory healthcare is a revolutionary system of medicine and dentistry that works from the inside out, exploring root causes of chronic disease and correcting imbalances to help your body address illnesses before they start or worsen.

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healthy kids

Nurturing Creative Kids Hobbies Engage and Grow Healthy Kids

U

by Marlaina Donato

nplugging with creative and fun activities fosters skills that can last a lifetime. Studies published by the National Endowment for the Arts Office of Research & Analysis show that participating in performing and visual arts enhances children’s social skills and emotional processing, builds confidence and improves academic aptitude.

“Not every child needs to play a team sport. Team experiences such as working with peers toward a goal, learning to win and lose gracefully and to get along with others can also be learned through the arts,” explains Antonella D’Aloia, a developmental and expressive art teacher with The Whole Child, in Upton, Massachusetts. “Both crafts and expressive artistic creation have huge benefits because they’re usually seen as nonthreatening activities, especially for kids with anxiety or on the autism spectrum. Art offers a safe place in which they can hone new responses to difficult feelings.”

Earth-Based Self-Expression Weaving, scrapbooking, making friendship bracelets and other art projects involving organic or re-usable materials can dem44

onstrate sustainability while teaching children how to follow directions, cultivate patience and strategize. Healthy cooking classes are a creatively engaging avenue for youths to learn about connections between a healthy Earth and maintaining personal health. Expressing themselves through the visual arts, drama and dance promotes problem-solving and innovation, as does joining a science or Lego club.

“It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to try new things,” stresses D’Aloia.

“Go to local school concerts, plays and art exhibits. Look for public art in your area.

Local libraries often offer great activities for kids.”

Mindful Investments

Instilling mindfulness in children can be both fruitful and far-reaching. “Origami— the Japanese art of paper folding without cuts or glue—is a quintessential hobby for centeredness. The act of folding paper is so engrossing that one is very present and in the moment,” says Kathleen Sheridan, origami master and founder of Origami and You, in St. Paul, Minnesota. “Origami stimulates both sides of the brain and

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

helps to build self-esteem. Most of all, it’s fun, portable and inexpensive.”

Fostering imagination and using the written word through journaling or storytelling nourishes a child’s inner world.

“Creating a short story requires divergent thinking; young writers use their imaginations to generate unique ideas for characters, settings, plots and conflicts. We help them think deeply, write authentically and respect the perspectives of others, while learning to create and share their own stories and experiences,” explains Kimberly O’Connor, young writers program director at Lighthouse Writers Workshops, in Denver, Colorado.

“Expressing the exact shape of an iris or the sound of a cricket, for example, requires intense curiosity and attention, two qualities that can serve children and teens indefinitely,” she explains. Such skills can help students anywhere—in the classroom, on the sports field and later, when they begin to search for and find jobs.

According to Stanford University research published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, learning an instrument helps to improve children’s reading skills, especially those struggling with dyslexia and other learning challenges. Researchers at the German Institute for Economic Research revealed that learning music amplifies cognitive and non-cognitive skills twice as much as engaging in sports, dance or theater arts.

The Wellbeing Project, in Great Britain, has inspired activities such as sewing to benefit well-being. According to research published in the Journal of Public Health, quilting boosts cognitive ability, emotional equilibrium and creativity.

Introducing life skills and hobbies that nourish selfhood can be one of our greatest gifts to the next generation. D’Aloia remarks, “Helping our children to express who they are, rather than who we expect them to be, is the most powerful thing we can do.”

Marlaina Donato is a multimedia artist and freelance writer who authors books related to the fields of alternative health and spirituality. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.

Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks.

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January 2019

45

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Pets

by Mary Oquendo

B News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call

203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

46

oth dogs and cats can suffer from cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). It is sometimes referred to as doggie or kitty Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The cause of CDS is not known at this time. It is thought to be similar to human aging, where brain function is affected by the physical and chemical changes that occur with the aging process of pets. The body stops or reduces the production of dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter. But scientists do not understand why that happens. The accumulation of proteins or plaque is also thought to be a cause of CDS. When CDS is age-related, the onset generally starts around the age of 11.

Symptoms for pets are similar to those experienced by people and may appear in any combination and frequency.

CDS Symptoms

Disorientation is often the first symptom that owners notice. It includes such behaviors as walking aimlessly, staring at

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

walls, getting “stuck” in corners, inability to figure out how to exit through a doorway, or losing balance.

Their social interactions change. They are no longer looking forward to the arrival of family members after a long day.

This pet may ignore those around them or even hide. Providing a den for them will make it easier to find them when they do hide. A den could be covered crate with a door that is always kept open or a private corner of the room where the pet’s bed may be.

There may be a change in sleep patterns. Pets that once slept through the night are now up at all hours and, conversely, the pets—especially cats—that used to play all night are now sleeping instead.

They forget their housetraining. They lose the connection that they need to go outside to the bathroom or may begin to

void before they even realize they have to go. Cats may forget how to use the litter box.

Their eating habits may change. They may have forgotten they have already eaten and beg for more. On the other hand, they may “forget” they’re hungry and food may simply hold no appeal for them.

If a pet exhibits any of these behaviors, a thorough work-up at the veterinarian is warranted. Many easily treatable health conditions may have similar symptoms, such as arthritis, urinary tract infections, hypertension, Cushing syndrome and other health issues.

Managing CDS

• Feed diets high in antioxidants, such as lean meats, berries and fish.

• Provide more activity in the form of walks and interactive games to keep the brain more active.

• Add supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, SAMe and melatonin. These have been shown to improve cognitive function.

• Set up a consultation with a veterinarian to discuss dosing the right supplements for the pet, along with setting up a treatment plan that may include homeo pathic treatments, herbal remedies, Chinese herbs and/or acupuncture.

Without the

oceans there would be no life on Earth. ~Peter Benchley

All the above have been proven to boost brain activity, which, in turn, slows the progress of CDS. While there is no way to prevent CDS in pets, its progress can be slowed and managed through diet, exercise and medication. A high quality of life can be maintained for a pet while living with CDS. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki Master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Pawsitive Education. She can be reached at PawsitiveEd.com. See ad, page 49.

January 2019

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for anything, but live in the moment, so once the danger has passed, they return to peace. Humans have a much tougher time with this.

Humans often get stuck in a constant state of perceived danger, even when nothing dangerous is happening in the moment. Humans project fears onto the future and worry about the past, entirely missing the calm of the present. In 2019, set the intention to return to grazing like a horse, take each moment as it comes and enjoy more peace.

Live Like an Animal Appreciating Wisdom from Other Species

M

by Carrie Brady

any pet lovers make resolutions about how they will care for their animals. This year, take it a step further and consider setting an intention to live like an animal because, when we stop to consider it, every species has wisdom to offer.

Greet People You Love Like a Dog. Dogs know how to welcome people they love. Research shows that some dogs sense the instant their owners depart for home and will begin waiting, even if the humans are miles away or have an erratic schedule.

Dogs give humans exuberant greetings and clearly demonstrate how thrilled they are to be reunited. Humans don’t give as much thought to greeting the people they love, especially if they see them frequently. A cursory “hi” upon arrival, followed by an immediate return to the daily distractions of the computer, phone, to do list, etc. is the norm. In 2019, show people how much they mean by greeting them with enthusiasm and giving them undivided attention, even if only briefly. Watch what happens with your relationships with this simple act of appreciation and love.

Claim Your Desires and Offer Your Gifts Like a Cat. Any-

one who has spent time with a cat can understand why they were once worshipped as gods. Cats have a confident, almost regal presence. They know what they want, and seem to be quite comfortable claiming it, whether it is food, a special spot on the couch, or your attention. Cats also seem to have a healthy sense of self-worth; they believe they are valuable and are confident giving what they have to offer. Humans are less effective at clearly asking for what they want and believing they will get it. Our species also seems less able to recognize our unique strengths and gifts and be comfortable sharing them with the world. In 2019, be like a cat; ask for what you want and believe in what you have to offer. You are worth it!

Return to Grazing Like a Horse. As prey animals, horses are constantly vigilant. They scan their environment looking for signs of danger and will take immediate action if they sense a problem. As soon as the danger has passed, however, horses immediately return to grazing, their natural relaxed state when their heads are down and they rhythmically munch on their grass or hay. They are ready 48

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Shed What You No Longer Need Like a Snake. One of

the amazing things about snakes is that they shed their entire skin. When they are actively growing, some species shed as often as every two weeks. As adults, many types of snakes still shed their skins two to four times annually. Humans may not shed in as dramatic a fashion as snakes, but can embrace the shedding process and the growth it represents by shedding possessions and beliefs. Humans are often surrounded by meaningless things that can drain energy and time, but still have trouble letting them go because they may have once been important. Shedding old limiting beliefs and unwanted things is an essential part of growth and makes room for new energy and experiences. In 2019, review your physical and mental environments and shed the items and beliefs that are holding you back. Recognize how you have grown over the years and celebrate how you are continuing to change as you spend the coming year shedding what you no longer need like a snake.

Embrace Change and Step Out of Your Comfort Zone Like a Frog. Frogs are born as tadpoles with gills and a long tail,

designed to live in water. As they mature, frogs lose their tail and gills, and grow arms and legs. At some point, they need to step out of the watery home they’ve known and begin living on land. That’s a big transition! Humans also go through many transitional stages.

As babies and toddlers, humans constantly push boundaries and try new things, but tend to become less comfortable with change as adults. By approaching life with a sense of curiosity, wonder, and adventure, it is possible to reconnect with the fun of change like in childhood instead of approaching change with fear or dread. Make a list of some areas in which you would like to grow. As you step outside of your comfort zone and explore in 2019, realize that you can survive and thrive in many situations, just like a frog.

The list of animal wisdom intentions could go on and on: spread your wings like a bird, eat mindfully like a rabbit, and play like a fox. Every animal has wisdom to offer humans. Adopt the characteristics that resonate, start living like the animals, and get ready for an amazing year!

Carrie Brady always lives with a menagerie of animals. She is the creator of Possibilities Farm, a unique wellness center in Wilton where she partners with horses to bring out the best in humans through innovative non-riding programs. Services include equine-assisted reiki, meditation, creative arts, drumming, and personal and professional development workshops. Carrie also leads the Heart Herd, an online community applying horse wisdom to daily life at PossibilitiesFarm.com/Heart-Herd. html. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 57.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

pet resource guide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC

TAILS OF COURAGE

238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 Animals-In-Distress.com

1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) TailsOfCourage.org

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297

1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

VETERINARY SERVICES NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org

Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services during the spay/ neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families, and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 47.

NFSAW

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org AdoptAPet.org

LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE

223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org

PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 PetProtectorsRescue.org

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org

STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need.

We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

January 2019

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 12

calendar of events All Calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day Yoga Practice – 10am-noon.

Kick off 2019 with an invigorating 2-hour asana practice designed to wake up the spine and the soul.

Perfect way to set an intention of yoga and self-care in the New Year. $45. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@WeAreYogaCulture.com.

WeAreYogaCulture.com.

New Year's Day Sound Bath – 4:30-5:30pm.

Using high vibration instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, voice, drums and more. Lie back and receive the benefits that the sound journey provides. Mats and blankets available but you may bring a pillow and blanket. $20/advance; $25/day of event. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2 Manifesting the New Year: Prayer Arrows – 6:30-8:30pm. Begin with a smudge and collective prayer of love and unity for the entire planet as well as ourselves. Guided meditation and medicine wheel worksheet to help envision healthy desires and goals. $25. Twin Star Connecticut’s School of Herbal and Energetic Studies, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@gmail. com. TwinStarTribe.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125.

Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation and Relaxation – 7:30-9:30pm. With Allison. Restorative yogic sleep meditation. In a relaxed but aware state you’ll delve into the layers of consciousness, tap into what’s important and release what’s not, creating a state of peace and bliss. $20/by 1/3; $30/after. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@WeAreYogaCulture.com.

WeAreYogaCulture.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 9:30am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125.

50

Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Energetic Exploration Aether and the Earth – 1-3pm. With Ben Davis, medium and tutor (10+ years). Delve into the intricate connections between vibratory energies, exploring your own energetic abilities and the connection with discarnate energies and beings. $30/members; $40/non-members.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 Spiritfire Breathwork – 6-7pm. Spiritfire is a powerful breathing technique to maximize oxygen intake and circulation. This practice helps release physical, emotional, and energetic blocks. Please bring a blanket. $20. Pre-registration required. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury.

203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.

Yoga for Energy and a Strong Core – 7:30-9pm.

Learn core moves that you can focus on daily to engage your core and build strength in your abdominal muscles, all the way down to your transverse abdominis. $25/by 1/10; $35/after. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@ WeAreYogaCulture.com. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

Restorative Yoga: Unwind From The Grind – 3-5pm. with Liz Wendel. Restorative Yoga is a passive practice, which just about anyone can do. We’ll use props (pillows, blankets, straps, etc.) to support your body so you can rest, stretch your muscles. $32/advance; $38/day of if space is available. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642.

Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 Stepping into Womanhood with Grandmother Nancy – 10am-3pm. In the Native American traditions young women were prepared for coming into first moon cycle. In these modern times, most young women do not receive these teachings. In native communities this time is celebrated and the grandmothers and women relatives teach the

markyourcalendar ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, January 5 & February 2nd Spiritual/Psychic Fair • 11am-4pm • $35+ Sunday, January 6 Energetic Exploration Aether and the Earth with Ben Davis 1-3pm • $30/$40 non-members Thursday, January 10 White Light Healing Night Service 7-8pm • By Donation Sunday, January 13 David Young Concert 1-3pm • $30/$35 at the door Sunday, January 20 Message Circle – Verline Eldridge 1-3pm • $20 Sunday, January 27 Traditional Celtic Harp Concert – Remy DeVere 1-1:45pm • $20

ONGOING EVENTS:

markyourcalendar THE LAW OF ATTRACTION & THE NATURAL LAWS OF THE UNIVERSE Sunday, January 27 • 1- 3pm Learn how to co-create with the Universe to manifest and create the life you desire for 2019.

Learn what the Law of Attraction and the Natural Laws of the Universe are and how you can apply and co-create with them in your life.

Hunter Healing Hands, Bridgeport $40 exchange with pre-registration by Jan 25th To register, contact Jessica at 203-916-8381 or HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Sundays Service • 11am-12:30pm Bereavement Group for Parents • 1-2pm Tuesdays Spiritual Philosophy & Development Circle 7-9pm • Suggested donation $10 Beginner Psychic & Mediumship Class • $20 Wednesdays • 7-9pm and First Saturdays • 2-4p First & Third Thursdays Spiritual Mediumship Class – All Levels 7-9pm • Love Donation or Service Cancelled events will be posted on our website Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich 203-637-4615 • Info@AlbertsonChurch.org AlbertsonChurch.org

young lady how to prepare for the duties and joys of womanhood. Learn about this practice. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Burning Bowl Ceremony – 11am-12:30pm.

The Ceremony of the Burning Bowl, which takes place as a part of our regular Sunday service, is an invitation to let go of the baggage that we all carry.

We do this with the help of the God of our own understanding. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Reiki For Kids Ages 6-10 – Noon-2:30pm. Children will receive a Reiki I attunement and learn age appropriate teachings around how to use Reiki for self healing and for healing of family and pets.

Certificate and Reiki manual included. Parents are present throughout the course. $50. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

David Young Concert – 1-3pm. $30/advance; $35/at the door. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Reiki For Kids Ages 3-5 – 3-5pm. Children will learn about Reiki healing in a fun and playful setting and receive a Reiki I attunement and learn age appropriate teachings around how to use the Reiki for self healing and for healing of family and pets. Certificate and Reiki manual included.

Parents are present throughout the course. $50.

Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Sound Bath – 6:30-7:45pm. Using high vibration instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, voice, drums and more. Lie back and receive the benefits that the sound journey provides. Mats and blankets available but you may bring a pillow and blanket. $25/pre-registration; $30/at door. Yoga Space, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

markyourcalendar 13TH OCTAVE LAHOCHI PRACTITIONER TRAINING With Eilis Philpott of Academy of Soul Healing Thursday, March 21 • All Day Friday, March 22 Saturday & Sunday, March 22-24 The Woodbury Wellness and Psychotherapy Center 787 Main St. S, Ste A5, Woodbury ​Investment: $555 Deposit of $100 required for registration Book early as these workshops always sell out!

203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Thomas John: The Seatbelt Psychic – 7:309:30pm. World-renowned medium Thomas John is a trusted advisor to influencers and celebrities.

John is a global psychic sensation who has wowed audiences across the world with his impressively accurate messages from the other side. $45/ticket; $125/VIP Meet and Greet Ticket Bundle. The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield.

203-438-5795. Info@RidgefieldPlayhouse.org.

RidgefieldPlayhouse.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15 The Power and Magic of Dreams – 7-9pm. In this class, we will touch upon the importance of sleep, ways to explore dreams, use of crystals to support dream recall and types of dreaming. Required prerequisite for all dream classes. Please bring a journal that is dedicated to recording your dreams. $25. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe. 203-556-7777. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Yoga Nidra: The Art of Deep Relaxation – 3-4:30pm. With Karen Gillotti. Yoga Nidra is an 8-stage guided relaxation journey that has the power to transform and rejuvenate you at core levels. Workshop will consist of 45-minutes of yoga poses to prepare the physical body to be still for 45 minutes of Yoga Nidra. $22/in advance; $28/day of. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22

Botany For Herbalists – 6:30-8:30pm. We will go over plant parts, shapes and textures, identifying features and more. Getting more familiar with the science of botany can be a very helpful tool for an herbalist in getting to know our herbal allies on a better level. $25. Twin Star Connecticut’s School of Herbal & Energetic Studies, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@gmail. com. TwinStarTribe.com.

Vision Board Gathering – 6-8pm. Join Dr. Noori and Beverly Lewis. Night of positivity and inspiration as you work on your very own vision board. All supplies will be included along with healthy and delicious snacks. $10. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, First Flr, Westport. 203-916-4600.

DrNadiaNoori@gmail.com. ShalvaClinic.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17

Guided Meditation and Sound Healing – 6:30-7:30pm. Experience an hour of guided meditation and sound healing aimed to help release tension, sleep better and cultivate happiness. Beginners welcome. The last 15 minutes, enjoy the sounds of Tibetan singing bowls and gong. $15. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.

Yoga for Pelvic Floor Health – 6:30-7:30pm. For women. Increase your knowledge of this powerful system of muscles and learn how to keep them strong yet flexible. After a brief discussion, learn an asana practice to keep these muscles working and apply this to all your yoga practices. $35. Yoga Culture , 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. Kristine@ WeAreYogaCulture.com. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

Shamanic Journey into the Great Central Sun with Shakti Durga – 7-8:30pm. Join Shakti Durga for a shamanic journey to the realms beyond the Sun, the biggest light available for us here on Earth.

The mystical light of the sun leads us even further into heavenly realms. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com

markyourcalendar EXPLORING YOUR WAY OF BEING Friday, January 11 – Sunday, January 13 6:30pm-11:30am Begin 2019 by nourishing your emotional self in this personal development weekend. Our deeply caring listening community welcomes you to the Farmhouse on Litchfield, CT’s Wisdom House campus. Many options are offered throughout 5 sessions. $195.

Visit IntegralSchoolhouse.net for details and registration.

Dietary Advice and Natural Therapies for Type 2 Diabetes – 2-3pm. With Dr. Carney, a naturopathic physician. Information to prevent Type 2 Diabetes and what to do once diagnosed. Also includes discussion of dietary recommendations and supplements to control blood sugar and prevent complications. Free, registration requested. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury.

203-263-4868. NewMorn.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23

The Ketogenic Diet Simplified – 6:30-7:30pm.

With Dr. Ellen Lewis, Naturopathic Physician, and Neil Carcusa, Nutritional Consultant. Learn about the ketogenic diet and how to incorporate a ketogenic lifestyle as well sample meal plans. Free.

Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. 203-9164600. Info@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25 Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years).

Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Lineage.

Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

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calendar of events Got Props with Wendy Verga – 2-4pm. With Wendy Verga, PT YT. Fun, Interactive and informative workshop, where we will incorporate the wall, straps, washcloths, chairs, bolsters and blocks as tools to explore our poses, and gain deeper understanding of the foundational mechanics involved. $30/ advance; $35/at door. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

Singer/Songwriter Series – 7:30-9pm. Snacks are available for purchase and donations for the performance are graciously accepted. Free. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Community Room, 2nd Flr, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27 Sound Bath – 6:30-7:45pm. Using high vibration instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, voice, drums and more. Lie back and receive the benefits that the sound journey provides. Mats and blankets available but you may bring a pillow and blanket. $25/ pre-registration; $30/at door. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT. com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 Plant Partner: Skunk Cabbage – 6:30-8pm. Discuss botany, parts used, actions, energies, traditional uses, essences, remedies and more. There will be visual and tangible examples of the herb, along with various different remedies made with the herb to taste, smell and feel. $25. Twin Star Connecticut’s School of Herbal & Energetic Studies, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. BekahTwinStar@gmail.com.

TwinStarTribe.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31 Hypothyroidism 101: What Your Doctor Should Have Told You – 6:30-7:30pm. With Dr. Ellen Lewis, expert in functional thyroid evaluation. Talk will cover comprehensive thyroid tests that you should be having as well as some key treatments that should be considered as part of your therapeutic plan. Includes 15 minutes of Q&A at the end of each talk. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. 203-916-4600. Info@ ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Ancient Wisdom: Overview of the History of Yoga – 1:30-3:30pm. Join Karen Pierce and teacher trainees in the Yoga studies workshop. Qualifies for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credit.

Overview of the history of yoga, Ayurveda and Shamanism. Come learn the best from the West, East and Indigenous teachings. $39. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

ongoing events

sunday Tal Fusion: Sunday Sweat – 9:15-10am. With Tal Fagin. Get your heart pumping and blood flowing with this eclectic, spirited, high energy class. Class is 50 minutes in length, so get ready to get in high gear. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.

Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are wonderful spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Satsangs with Shanti Mission Healers are filled with music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808.

MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272.

NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

markyourcalendar AWAKEN YOUR INNER MAGIC- A YOGA AND TAROT WEEKEND February 22-24 With Alison DeNicola and Sasha Graham at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health • Yoga • Tarot-Intuition • Magic • Exploration • Expansion •Fun • Retreat Sign up at Kripalu.org or call 800-741-8353

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am.

Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul -healing topics and uplifting music. By donation.

Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk.

203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Holy Fire III Reiki Level 1 Class–10:30am5:30pm. First Sunday. With Gail Christie, Usui/ Holy Fire III and Karuna Reiki Master Teacher.

Learn the techniques that will enable you to release stress and help yourself and others heal. No prerequisites. Class size is limited. Registration and deposit due no later than one week before the class date. $175. Joyful Living Reiki, 55 Three Lakes Dr, Stamford. 203-979-0918. GailChristie.Reiki@ gmail.com. JoyfulLivingReiki.com.

Holy Fire III Reiki Level 2 Class–10:30am5:30pm. Fourth Sunday. With Gail Christie, Usui/ Holy Fire III and Karuna Reiki Master Teacher.

Learn to send distance healing, as well as learning how to use the Level 2 symbols for giving Reiki to yourself and others. Prerequisite: Reiki 1. Class size is limited. Registration and deposit due no later than two weeks before the class date. $275.

Joyful Living Reiki, 55 Three Lakes Dr, Stamford.

203-979-0918. GailChristie.Reiki@gmail.com.

JoyfulLivingReiki.com.

Sunday Morning Meditation – 11-11:45am.

Experience stillness and peace, establish a regular practice, reduce stress and tension, and enhance health and well-being. Meditation class for beginners and experienced meditators. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.

Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Monthly Mystical Market – 11am-4pm. Third Sunday. Psychics, mediums, intuitives, CT artisans, vendors and holistic practitioners. Free admission, vendors prices vary. The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@ TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com.

Lorrie D. Therapeutic Massage, Pain Relief and Relaxation – Noon-5pm. With Lorrie D. Lori specializes in therapeutic massage, pain relief and relaxation. Advanced appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome. $75. Black Cat Mystical Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport.

203-941-9408. BlackCat@aol.com.

Karma Community Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Fourth Sunday. Our monthly donation-based class. Bring a non-perishable food donation, and enjoy an hour for your mind, body and spirit. The Ruby Tree, Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury.

203-586-1655. Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com.

TheRubyTreeCT.com.

monday Yoga for 50+ – 9:30-10:45am. Created for people over fifty who need a gentle approach to learning yoga, these classes include yogic breathing, relaxation and restorative rejuvenating postures.

This class will help you gain confidence, balance, strength and joint function. $10. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury. NewMorn.com.

Yoga All Levels – 10-11am. With Caroline. Class given according to whatever level of student happens to show up. All levels welcome. The class is hatha flow based with elements of relaxation, meditation, breath work, strength and flow. $18/ class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com.

ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Ayurveda and Wellness – 6-9pm. Ayurveda counseling and therapies. $150. Pryority Wellness, 46 Groove St, New Canaan. 203-857-4123. JMDaptardar@hotmail.com. AyurBeautyAndLifestyle.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday

wednesday

Holy Fire Reiki Share–10am-noon. Third Tuesday. With Gail Christie, Usui/Holy Fire III and Karuna Reiki Master. Relax and restore with a morning of meditation, fellowship and shared Reiki healing. Release stress, regain a sense of peace and joy and return to your daily life refreshed. All welcome. RSVP required. $20. Joyful Living Reiki, 55 Three Lakes Dr, Stamford.

203-979-0918. GailChristie.Reiki@gmail.com.

JoyfulLivingReiki.com.

Mat Pilates – 9-10am. With Suzette Caldwell.

Classic mat Pilates work out, vigorous class but open to all levels. You set the challenge bar for your workout. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Slow Yoga – 10-11am. With Lella Ilyinsky. Class is set to a slower pace, and may include elements of restorative yoga, yin yoga and foundational flow sequences, depending on the needs of the class. Beginners welcome. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Monthly Information Sessions at The Graduate Institute – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for an info session every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Graduate Institute. Please contact us to let us know that you’ll be attending. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252.

Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing.

All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690.

Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki Level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Spiritual Philosophy & Self Unfoldment – 7-9pm. Through a process of structured meditations on potent spiritual phrases, students will be exposed to the internal spiritual development of Jacob’s Ladder. $10/suggested donation. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Reiki Healing Shares – 7:30-9:30pm. First and third Tuesdays. With Gigi Benanti, Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Includes short instruction and discussion. Must RSVP. $20.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com.

Midweek Retreat – 3-4:30pm. With Dr. Tanvi Gandhi. This sacred time will consist of intention setting with a small tea ceremony, followed by breath work, and a combination of acupuncture and meditation. You will leave with insight on your experience and a self-care tip for the week. $30/drop-in; $150/series. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield.

BarefootLivingArts.org.

Tai Chi Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in; $85/1 class per week; $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 1197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm.

Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class.

Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

A Course In Miracles – 7-8pm. A Course in Miracles was born out of a commitment between two people to find a better way to live in this world; a study group grows out of a commitment to be an unconditional, non-judgmental place of sharing, joining and learning, where everyone is welcome. $15/suggested donation. Registration required.

Call for address. 203-767-5954. Eilis@Soul HealingJourney.com. SoulHealingJourney.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Meditation that often includes chanting, music and requires your active participation. All faiths and cultures are welcomed.

By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Heartspeak – 7-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller and Bruce Zboray. The Art of Amazing Yourself: A GEM (Great Energy Moment) is a 2-minute audio, which will inspire and uplift you.

We will select a few gems each month and discuss it by phone or internet. $8. Contact@Heartspeak. life. Heartspeak.Life.

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53

ongoing events Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Yoga with Curves – 7:30-8:30pm. Your body, your yoga, your way. Yoga is not for a specific body type.

If you can breathe, you can do yoga. In this 4-week series, you will explore mindful movement in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, using props and modifications tailored to your comfort. $60/4-class series. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com.

Yogaspace-CT.com.

Learn to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Wednesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka. Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. By phone or internet. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@sbcglobal.net.

Results-BeyondBelief.com.

Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Kundalini Yoga and Music Meditation – 9:3010:30am. With Leesa Sklover, PhD, C-IAYT, Certified Yoga Therapist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher.

Experience the yoga of awareness weekly to heal your mind and your life. All welcome. Register for first class. $15 per class/monthly discount.

Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com.

LoveLifeProductions.net.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness.

Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Family Story Time and Craft – 10-10:30am.

Each Thursday morning, we will be joined by Kate Pratt, who will have a bird-themed story followed by a fun craft. Registration required. Free. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury.

NewMorn.com.

Healing Gong – 10:30-11:30am. Healing Gong, a form of Sheng Zhen, is a restorative medical qigong that blends an ancient tradition with gentle, meditative movements performed seated on a chair.

Healing Gong is an integration of healing traditions, using the power of nature to heal oneself. $25. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.org.

54

Knit 2 Gather–4:30-5:30pm. Craft wearable items for Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury. All levels welcome to join. Instructors will be on-hand for beginners. Yarn, needles and refreshments are also provided. Free. Registration requested. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury.

203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm.

Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class.

Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Holy Fire Reiki Circle–7-9pm. First Thursday.

With Gail Christie, Usui/Holy Fire III and Karuna Reiki Master. Restorative evening of meditation, fellowship and shared Reiki healing. Release stress, regain a sense of peace and joy, and return to your daily life refreshed. Open to all. RSVP required. $20. Joyful Living Reiki, 55 Three Lakes Dr, Stamford. 203-979-0918. GailChristie.Reiki@ gmail.com. JoyfulLivingReiki.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. First Thursday. All welcome. Share and experience Reiki. Please join us while we enjoy a peaceful, powerful night of healing. Hosted by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Mindful Movie Nights – 7:15-9:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Inspiring movies, documentaries, Ted Talks, new ideas, conversation and more. $9. Yoga Space, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@gmail. com. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

Kids Cooking Club – 3:45-4:45pm. Kids will make allergy-friendly, no-bake snacks that are perfect for a lunch box. Kids will make and eat their creations, and will take home recipes to enjoy later. Suggested age: 5-10 years old. Free, registration requested. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. NewMorn.com.

Discussion with The Higher Realms – 7-9:30pm.

Last Friday. Bring your heartfelt questions and receive the wisdom of The Ascended Masters and The Divine Feminine specifically for you as channeled by Ginny Brown. $45. Address provided upon registration. HeartAndHealing@hotmail.com.

GinnyBrown.net.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

saturday Find Your Edge Yoga – 9-10am. With Pauline Koinis. For yoga practitioners. A chance for yoginis and yogis alike to get a Saturday morning groove on; where laughter, challenge and heart all meet on the mat. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.

Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm.

Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600.

DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org.

Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm.

First Saturday. Would you like a second opinion on your life issues, or a personal message from a departed loved one? Are you curious about your purpose in this life, or seeking a bit more direction and focus? Come join us. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk.

203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

community resource guide

FEBRUARY

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

ACUPUNCTURE

AYURVEDA

KURT BEIL, ND, LAC, MPH

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA

72 North St, Ste 100A, Danbury 914-362-8315 DrKurt@earthlink.net HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com Naturopathic and Chinese medicine for acute and chronic disease, including acupuncture, botanical medicine, cupping, moxa, homeopathy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, mind-body medicine, ecotherapy and functional lab testing. Helpful for muscle/ joint pain and headaches, autoimmune disease, digestive disorders, mental health, boosting immune function, balancing hormones, tobacco addiction, and stress reduction. See ad, page 10.

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

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NATURAL FOOD ISSUE

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The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Full Color Division of Whole-Body MedicineOne Color 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas—such as concussion and stroke—as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance.

Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 30.

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Lyme Disease plus: Evolving Living Arrangements

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plus: Herbal Wisdom

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Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, KE addiction, fatigue, Ainsomnia, L tune-ups and more. Facial WF rejuvenation/cosmetic acupuncture also offered.

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Inflammation Overload

ADAM BREINER, ND

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC

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MARCH

CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

Ingri’s treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility, smoking, and weight-loss issues.

See ad, page 27.

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A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a CMYK 1, 99, 1, 0 unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constituCMYK tion (dosha), a plan may include 58, 79, 0, 0 supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See – Bold ad, page 19. Aleo CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

BIOFEEDBACK

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice

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Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

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2019 Natural Living Directory

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BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC

Vincent offers paths to wholeness which lead to resolving pain and trauma, ease of movement in one’s body and life, and a fuller conscious embodiment.

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The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair.

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Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 • WCSU.edu/IHHS

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As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique.

We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care.

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Eilis is a certified Rebirther having completed Rebirthing and Advanced Rebirthing training. She is a certified Soul Language practitioner and is certified in Akashic Field therapy. She is a Reiki Master in Usui/Raku-kei Reiki and Angelic Reiki. She is an approved teacher for 13th Octave LaHoChi. A transformational healing session supports you in healing all aspects of your life. See ad, page 16.

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True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com

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Eilis Philpott 40 Livingston St, Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

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Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 • Vincent@VincentFraser.com

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VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

I hold the space for you to be seen and heard as I listen intuitively and provide gentle guidance, in addition to facilitating your body’s ability to reach an optimal state of being through hands-on and Distant Energy work.

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AcuBlend will serve your healthcare needs by blending the art and science of wellness. offering acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, Gua, Sha, Tui Na, massage therapy, movement therapies, herbal medicine and much more. See ad, page 18.

Debby’s Energy Reiki Master, Trained in Healing Touch and Integrative Energy Therapy 528 Post Rd, 2nd Flr, Darien 203-353-1725 DistantLinking@gmail.com​ DebbysEnergy.com

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Dr. Sian James, DAc, LAc, LMT, RYT Offices in Fairfield County 203-987-6585 AcuBlend.com

Good health depends as much upon how well we eliminate wastes from our bodies as it does upon how well we eat. Our physician-supervised colonics promote relief from a variety of disturbances by gently cleansing the colon and opening our body’s natural detoxification pathways. See ad, page 2.

DEBBY STEIN

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ACUBLEND PLLC

501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

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WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

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Breast cancer screening with medical-grade thermography is safe and noninvasive. We are pleased to have ThermaScan, the world’s premier source for the analysis and reporting of medical thermology, available at our health center. Early detection matters. See ad, page 2.

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 17.

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501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com

Experience and personalized service you can trust.

The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

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Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 AlbaThermalImaging.com

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FREQUENCY SPECIFIC MICROCURRENT SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional location in Greenwich 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com • SenLightenment.com Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) uses a low-level current to reduce inflammation and scar tissue formation, as well as regenerate injured tissue.

The frequencies target specific tissues and issues. Anyone who has experienced accidents, traumas, injuries or athletic strains can benefit.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human.

Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, autoimmune problems, toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive Personalized Wellness Plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

HEALING ACID REFLUX HEALING ACID REFLUX NATURALLY

Susan Berman, Med, CHHC 860-670-4152 Susan@HealingAcidReflux.com HealingAcidReflux.com I work with health conscious individuals to help heal their acid reflux or GERD to avoid further damage and prevent esophageal cancer. Find your unique food and lifestyle triggers. I work with groups or 1:1 through a virtual classroom so you can be anywhere to take the program.

HEALING CENTER THE RUBY TREE

Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more.

Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/ mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 13.

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Purdy Hill Rd, Ste 2, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.co

Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living.

Working one-on-one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management.

HEALTHY EATING CHEF ELIANA GRUBEL, CHC Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services 203-559-8946 CleanFood4UrType.com

As a Board-Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and member of the Unites States Personal Chef Association, Eliana’s passion is her clients’ success. She has been serving CT for over 15 years, and is now offering new services including short-term detoxes, meals to freeze, dinner parties, cooking classes, personalized coaching programs and seminars.

See ad, page 15.

HOLISTIC DENTIST DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND Yorktown Heights, NY 914-214-9678 HolisticDentist.com

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our website to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 37.

WHOLE BODY DENTISTRY

Mark A Breiner, DDS 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Mark Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. His patients have found solutions to baffling, unresolved and seemingly unrelated dentalrelated health problems. He is the author of the award-winning book, Whole-Body Dentistry. See ad, page 2.

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY DAVID LONDON, MD

544 Riverside Ave, Westport DavidLondonMD.com Contact@DavidLondonMD.com 203-557-6574 David London, MD, honors emotional, spiritual and biochemical individuality to assist healing psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

Sophisticated genetic and lab testing help identify underlying causes. Treatment may include acupuncture, psychotherapy, EMDR, herbs, vitamins, nutrients, lifestyle changes, medication. See ad, page 41.

HORSE WISDOM CARRIE BRADY

Possibilities Farm, LLC, Wilton 203-210-7484 PossibilitiesFarm@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com Awaken new possibilities in your life by looking through the eyes of a horse. Possibilities Farm, LLC is an oasis in the Wilton woods offering extraordinary non-riding experiences, including horse wisdom, leadership development, private retreats, creative arts, meditation and reiki.

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INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and Stratford 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work.

Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 39.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigueEsyndrome, weight loss, K hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging LA F medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation.

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Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN David Johnston, DO Elena Sokolova, MD, ND 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with holistic medicine, our caring integrative physicians correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. We treat many conditions including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, immune disorders, allergies, thyroid conditions, pain, neurological conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ ADHD, depression, insomnia and more. We offer hyperbaric oxygen, neurofeedback and neurotherapies, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine, IV nutrient and chelation therapy, energetic medicine, homeopathy, Japanese Reiki, nutrition, colonics and detoxification, enhanced brain, athletic, scholastic performance, and more.

See ad, page 2.

INSPIRATIONAL BOUTIQUE THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

Purveyors of Positivity 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Route 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com

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Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns.

Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography.

Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc.

Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 11 and 27.

S ON ASLECTI M T OL

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center

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A unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first Shungite room in the U.S., The Angel Cooperative has products and experiences designed to care for your body and soul while also offering beautiful and healing goods for the home. We offer a regular schedule of workshops, meditations, classes, and other holistic and spiritual events. See ad, page 39.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy.

See ad, page 33.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional location in Greenwich 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com SenLightenment.com Advanced manual lymphatic drainage therapy is applying specific techniques to support, pre and post operative surgical procedures, detoxification, the immune system, neuro fascial release, the glymphatic system and the brain. This is supportive of both neural and cognitive functioning.

MASSAGE AND BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 22.

Aleo – Bold CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 • ReddingMeditation.org We teach and practice Mahasati meditation.

Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 33.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN ADAM BREINER, ND

Whole-Body Medicine LLC 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Dr. Adam Breiner has helped patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions—including stroke, concussions, TBIs, ADD/ADHD, depression and anxiety—as well as seeing patients for enhanced sports, scholastic and workplace performance. His center was the first facility in the country to offer the powerful combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neurofeedback. Dr. Breiner also has natural and cutting-edge approaches for the treatment of Lyme disease. See ad, page 2.

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Full Color Division of Whole-Body MedicineOne Color 501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas such as concussion and stroke as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions; restore balance; and treat the mind, body and spirit.

Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 5.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years.

Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/Western herbs, allergy/ toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/enzyme therapies. See ad, page 14.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support. She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, back cover.

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NEUROFEEDBACK

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies.

We provide brain-based treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, EFT, hypnosis, meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 30.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic, hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years.

Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork. See ad, page 16.

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CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma.

See ad, page 19.

P R O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D

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MEDITATION

Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

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Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, pregnancy, trigger point, injuries and infant/child massage instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 10.

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA

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Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 RobinOrdanLMT.com

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ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brain-based tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 30.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

Find balance and enhance the health and well-being of your body, mind and spirit through Reiki and massage therapy. Offering a holistic approach with tailored sessions to honor the specific needs and goals of the client.

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Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children.

Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/bonding, child development and parenting.

See ad, page 18.

JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, Lyme disease and back pain. All Reiki levels taught.

Jackie Karabin, Reiki Master, LMT Wilton 203-984-1491 Info@EssentialHolisticHealing.com EssentialHolisticHealing.com

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Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 RobinOrdanLCSW.com

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is an FDAapproved, noninvasive, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-257-3785 no-radiation screening for the 203-345-7747 whole body. It offers possible Offices throughout JiivaCenter.com earlier detection of breast Fairfield County, Southbury, disease and can aid in diagnosis NewisHaven, Berta Prevosti a Usui Milford, and and improved prognosis of many health New York Karuna Reiki and Master and has conditions and injuries. See ad, page 21. been practicing Reiki for over 20 whthermography@gmail.com years. We also have several experiencedwww.wholehealththermography.com Reiki Masters and TRANSFORMATIVE practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and HEALING emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki classes that are taught in the traditional Usui ESSENTIAL HOLISTIC HEALING, LLC method by Berta. See ad, page 22.

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GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) THERMOGRAPHY 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk offers safe, FDA approved full body 203-852-1150 or breast screening.

AngelHealReiki.com WHOLE HEALTH Non Invasive on Gigi is an experienced Reiki• No Radiati THERMOGRAPHY LLC Master/Teacher.

She offers all • Possible 8 years earlier breast Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT levels ofcancer Reiki training monthly.

Locations throughout Fairfield County, detecti on vs mammogram All classes and Reiki sessions Southbury, New Haven, Milford and New York Clinical imaging for detecti ng and include•the latest techniques 203-257-3785 monitoring a number of diseases including Karuna, Angelic and WHThermography@gmail.com Jikiden Reiki. and physical injuries.

WholeHealthThermography.com

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Dr. Monaco is a Transformational Speaker and Coach who helps people break bad habits and change negative behaviors and beliefs to unlock their full potential and manifest abundance. She offers one-on-one or group coaching sessions, lectures and workshops, and Laughter Yoga sessions. She works with children to adults.

Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using ancient Chinese arts.

Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness.

Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats.

See ad, page 33.

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Inspire and Empower, LLC 203-395-9832 • DrLoriMonaco@gmail.com DrLoriMonaco.com

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com

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JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

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Eco Chic Salon Spa & Blow Dry Bar is committed to the healthy way of life so many people strive for each and every day. Mindful stylists are dedicated to the use of environmentally friendly products, including Eco Chic branded products, and alternative hair services with less toxic variations from the typical salon experience. Be well. Be beautiful.

Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs.

See ad, page 15.

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16 Center St, Wilton 203-966-5655 • EcoChicSalonCT.com

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com

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BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 17.

WELLNESS CENTER BAREFOOT LIVING ARTS

85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield 203-955-1955 BarefootMedicalArts@gmail.com BarefootLivingArts.org Barefoot Living Arts is a wellness center in downtown Fairfield that provides acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, massage, qigong, meditation, counseling, yoga and more. Our practice consists of two naturopathic doctors, a licensed massage therapist, a licensed clinical social worker and an advanced practice registered nurse. We strive to gently assist our patients to develop a deeper, more authentic connection with themselves.

HAUTE HEALING OASIS

792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 • Info@HauteSauna.com HauteHealingOasis.com Haute Healing Oasis is Fairfield County’s premiere wellness spa.

Featuring luxurious, private infrared sauna spa rooms, Young Living aromatherapy, chromo light therapy, BEMER physical vascular therapy, elite massage services as well as other holistic, safe, noninvasive healing modalities. Come and experience the HAUTE difference in health and wellness today.

See ad, page 7.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 22.

SALTANA CAVE

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, page 9.

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum.

Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL, PEACEFUL, PRIVATE ROOMS. Monroe, CT. Handicap Access. Rental by 4 hour/day/weekly time blocks. Affordable.

Email Sierra MuktinathHC@gmail.com MuktinathHolisticCenter.com

HELP WANTED

Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 4.

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors - if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply!

Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.

SALT OF THE EARTH HEALING ARTS SANCTUARY/ATHENA HALL

DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Help us spread the word! We’re looking for Community Street Team Members to work with us at upcoming events all over CT. Please send an email (subject line: COMMUNITY) and resume to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.

346 Main St S, Woodbury 203-405-2241 203-586-1172

A space of calm and beauty, healing and restoration of the body and spirit, Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary offers a tranquil place to refresh and renew in a house charged with the energy of old. Beautiful Athena Hall, inside the Sanctuary, can be rented to like-minded people for classes, workshops, lectures and special events. Heart and Home is a unique store in the sanctuary; a cozy place to shop, have tea, scoop and bag salts, purchase a variety of artisan goods.

SOUL SYNERGY WELLNESS

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com SoulSynergyWellness.co

Chill With Your Soul Mate J

oin the largest database of health-conscious and eco-minded, spiritual singles for FREE and manifest an extraordinary relationship!

Soul Synergy Wellness offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness.

Services include anti-aging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight-loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weight-loss program.

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Nature’s Temptations 203TLC 17 Healthy Food Market 45 AcuBlend/Dr. Sian James 18 Nature’s Way Health Foods 45 The Angel Cooperative 39 New Morning Market 45 Lori Bach/Zentangle 15 Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic 47 The BioMed Center New England 43 Ohempo 39

HEALTHY PLANET

2019 EDITORIAL CALENDAR

JAN

Feature: Mental Wellness Plus: Multiculturalism in Health

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY

FEB

Feature: Cardiovascular Health Plus: Socially Conscious Investing

NATURAL FOOD ISSUE

MAR APR

Feature: Inflammation Overload Plus: Herbal Wisdom Feature: Lyme Disease Plus: Evolving Living Arrangements

WOMEN’S HEALTH ISSUE

MAY JUNE

Feature: Personal Empowerment Plus: Mysticism and Medicine Feature: Traditional Chinese Medicine Plus: Holistic Vision and Dentistry

LOCAL FOOD ISSUE

JULY AUG

Feature: Urban and Suburban Agriculture Plus: Natural Beauty Feature: Autism Spectrum Plus: Healthy Relationships

HEALING MUSIC & MOVEMENT ISSUE

SEPT

Features: Sound, Music, Yoga and Dance Therapies Plus: Vibrant at Any Age

ALIGNMENT & LONGEVITY ISSUE

OCT NOV DEC

Features: Chiropractic and Orthopedic Care Plus: Healing with Frequencies Feature: Hormonal Health Plus: Natural Sleep Solutions and Healthy Home Feature: Uplifting Humanity Plus: Earth-Friendly Holidays

DEPARTMENTS HEALTH BRIEFS | GLOBAL BRIEFS | ECO TIP | GREEN LIVING HEALING WAYS | FIT BODY | CONSCIOUS EATING HEALTHY KIDS | WISE WORDS | INSPIRATION | NATURAL PET

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Chamomille Natural Foods

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Clean Food 4 Ur Type/ Eliana Grubel

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Optimal Health Medical/ Henry Sobo, MD

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Robin Ordan, LMT

10

Robin Ordan, LCSW

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Osteopathic Wellness Center 16 Pawsitive Education

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Ann Reeves 15 CopperZap 63 The Ridgefield Playhouse 4 CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard 27 Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates 30 Embody the Sacred 18 The Ruby Tree 13 Eyecare Associates 33 Salon Aponte 9 Final Journey LLC 49 Saltana Cave 9 Pamela D. George, DC, LLC 27 Salt Cave of Darien 12 Harbor Harvest 12 Salt of the Earth Spa Haute Healing Oasis 7 & Sanctuary 4 Healing Tree Wisdom/ Tom Scally/The Bridge 9 Thea Litsios 39 Nancy Scherlong, LCSW 15 HempWorx 10 Shalva Clinic 64 Hilda Demirjian Laser Center 19 Victoria Shaw, PhD 11 Holistic Chamber of Commerce 41 Soul Healing Journey/ Holistic Psychotherapy 10 Academy for Soul Healing 16 Hudson Valley Natural Health/ Sustainne 32 Kurt Beil, ND 10 The Tapping Practice 32 Hunter Healing Hands 8 Total U Health & Institute for Ayurvedic Wellness Center 12 and Naturopathic Therapies 19 Touch of Sedona 5 Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 22 Unity Center of Norwalk 34 David L. Lerner, DDS/ Center for Holistic Dentistry 37 Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center 33 David London, MD 41 Wellness Institute/ The Market 45 Marvin Schweitzer, ND 14 Mind-Body Transformation Westport Farmers Market 45 Hypnosis Center 11 Whole Foods Market 45 Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center 27 Whole Health Thermography 21 Natural Health & Wellness Center

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Copper device stops a cold naturally last holidays,” she said. “The kids had colds going around, but not me.”

Some users say it also helps with sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus headache. When her CopperZap arrived, she tried it. “I am shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

Some say copper stops nighttime stuffiness if used just before bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years.”

Copper may even stop flu if used earNew research: Copper stops colds if used early. ly and for several days. Lab technicians ew research shows you can went away completely.” It worked again placed 25 million live flu viruses on a stop a cold in its tracks if you CopperZap. No viruses were found alive every time he felt a cold coming on and take one simple step with a soon after. he hasn’t had a cold since. new device when you first feel a cold People have used it on cold sores He asked relatives and friends to try coming on. and say it can completely prevent ugly it. They said it worked for them, too, so Colds start when cold viruses get in outbreaks. You can also rub it gently he patented CopperZap™ and put it on your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you on wounds, cuts, or lesions to combat the market. don’t stop them early, they spread in infections.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it your airways and cause misery.

The handle is curved and finely texand given feedback. Nearly 100% said But scientists have found a quick tured to improve the copper stops way to kill a virus. Touch it with copper. colds if used withcontact. It kills in 3 hours after the Researchers at labs and universities germs picked up first sign. Even up agree, copper is “antimicrobial.” It kills on fingers and microbes, such as viruses and bacteria, to 2 days, if they hands to protect still get the cold it just by touch. you and your That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyp- is milder and they family. tians used copper to purify water and feel better.

Copper even heal wounds. They didn’t know about Users wrote kills deadly germs Sinus trouble, stuffiness, cold sores. that have become viruses and bacteria, but now we do. things like, “It Scientists say the high conductance stopped my cold right away,” and “Is it resistant to antibiotics. If you are near of copper disrupts the electrical balsupposed to work that fast?” sick people, a moment of handling it ance in a microbe cell, destroying it in Pat McAllister, age 70, received one may keep serious infection away. It may seconds. as a gift and called it “one of the best even save a life.

Tests by the Environmental Protecpresents ever. This little jewel really The EPA says copper still works tion Agency (EPA) show germs die fast works.” Now thousands of users have even when tarnished. It kills hundreds of on copper. Some hospitals tried copper stopped getting colds. different disease germs so it can prevent for surfaces like faucets and doorknobs.

People often use CopperZap preserious or even fatal illness. ventively. Frequent flier Karen Gauci This cut the spread of MRSA and other CopperZap is made in the U.S. of used to get colds after crowded flights. illnesses by over half, and saved lives. pure copper. It has a 90-day full money Though skeptical, she tried it several The strong scientific evidence gave back guarantee when used as directed times a day on travel days for 2 months. inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When to stop a cold. It is $69.95. Get $10 off he felt a cold coming on he fashioned “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” each CopperZap with code NATA7. a smooth copper probe and rubbed it Businesswoman Rosaleen says when Go to www.CopperZap.com or call people are sick around her she uses Cop- toll-free 1-888-411-6114. gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold perZap morning and night. “It saved me Buy once, use forever.

N

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January 2019

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