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August 2015

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

A Conversation with Food No of SAVOR Bobi,with Rex Making Organic HealthyHealthy Compromise

more of the regular type of pizzas people organic dairy-free money, of always and health before put options, I will eat;lots were familiar with and a littlepeople bit of do what many that… way around.” this, other thehow never, never and organic we eat. “You’d have a better chance of like healthy zero you think aftereatseeing later,that years find Fiveyou’ll surviving,” they said. to offer better our They saidinwe’d andoffseeing this?” menu our be compromises I thanked them for their candor and I people of pizzas type of the come around more have skeptics theregular success, asked them to listen to my answer. “I will bit of what and aoflittle withplenty and familiar educated were there are to see never make nor serve something that of I don’t chance better a have don’t “You’d who eat. we customers conscious health Q: What led you to understanding the kisses. I will never forget that moment. eat; I will always put health before money, said. they food, surviving,” substandard mediocre, for care One day, we came from the Hudson and never, never the other candor way around.” importance of fresh, healthy food and their quality, and forhigh themfor freshI thanked care but Icertainly Valley to visit a friend in Norwalk and Five years later, after seeing“I zero created the passion you have for it? will answer. my to listen to more. them and asked meats veggies, fruits, organic “For a saw I drove down Main Avenue. compromises in our menu and seeing our My wife, Val, and I grew up in farming make nor serve something that I don’t Rent” sign in one of the store windows. 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with No Food Have You Read What Everyone’s Been A Conversation with Rex Bobi, of SAVOR e Compromis Talking About? Healthy Organic

A Conversation with Conversation with Bobi of SAVOR, Healthy Organic of SAVOR Bobi, RexRex Healthy Making Healthy FoodOrganic with No Compromise

ommunityspotlight

Making Healthy Food with No ommunityspotlight Compromise A Conversation with Healthy Making Rex Bobi, of SAVOR No Food Healthywith Organic Compromise

hat led you to understanding the tance of fresh, healthy food and d the passion you have for it?

A Conversation with Rex Bobi, of SAVOR Healthy Organic

e, Val, and I grew up in farming rdening families back in Kosovo; everyone grows their own fresh nd vegetables, tends to their own s – cows, goats, sheep, horses, ns Sounderstanding we were exposed the you to ledmore. hatand n early age to all-organic food and healthy food of fresh, rtance using manure as fertilizer for it? you have passion theanimal ed me gardens. We simply didn’t know in farming up ife, Val, and I grew ere supposed to eatback anyin other way. Kosovo; families ardening st we matured, traveled around Eufresh their own grows everyone nd came totends America – I came own to their vegetables, andthen mid– 1980’s and my wife came horses,in sheep, cows, goats, als weand came to the that we were exposed Sorealization more. ens re early “otherage ways” people eat.food We to all-organic an We lovemanure a multicultural as fertilizer using animal nmerica. with so much and music; we didn’t know simply Weart gardens. me ted ourselves other way. any However, to eatease. supposed with were uldn’t to the mass-produced, around Eutraveled matured, we adapt As processed way to of America eating. Luckily, I – I came then came and ooking, reading about in wife came my studying andand mid 1980’s on. I never forgot helping my mom

203-939-1666 Now taking orders on line www.savorhealthypizza.com

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contents 7 newsbriefs 12 healthbriefs 16 globalbriefs 12 19 eventspotlight 21 masteringyoga 34 healingways 16 42 inspiredtable 44 consciouseating 50 naturallyhealthypet 5 1 naturalpet 44 55 calendar 59 classifieds 6 1 resourceguide 60 productmarketplace 66 cosmicrhythms 66 displayadindex

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.

20 THE BENEFITS OF

YOGA FOR CHILDREN

Finding Inner Calm and Confidence by Ellen Bonheim

22 GREEN ARTS

Tips for Finding Safe Eco-Supplies by Avery Mack

28 ENLIGHTENED PARENTING

How to Raise Caring, Happy Kids by Meredith Montgomery

34 THE VACCINE PUSH

by Linda Sechrist

36 MITIGATING

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Natural Ways to Support the Immune System Pre- and Post-Vaccination

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Mandatory Laws vs. Personal Choice

advertising & submissions

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

VACCINE RISKS

by Ariana Rawls Fine

38 PANDAS/PANS – WHAT’S THE STORY Children, Parents and Practitioners

Rising to the Challenge by Lisa Wolk-Kilion

47 THINK BEFORE YOU INK

How to Make Body Art Safe and Reversible by April Thompson

48 SWIMMING IN NATURE Splashing Safely in Lakes and Oceans by Lane Vail

51 WALKING THE CAT

Harness a Curious Cat for a Lively Stroll by Sandra Murphy

WHY AN ORGANIC MATTRESS IS RIGHT FOR YOU

While we sleep, our immune system recovers and prepares for the day ahead. If your mattress is filled with airborne allergens and chemical toxins, your immune system will battle these rather than

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FIND A HUGE SELECTION OF THE BEST ORGANIC MATTRESSES IN THE WORLD

WHY YOU SHOULD PURCHASE YOUR ORGANIC MATTRESS FROM THE CLEAN BEDROOM We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. We research every brand we carry, testing the mattresses and bedding to be sure they meet our rigorous standards for purity and construction. Our extensive product knowledge helps you select the mattress and bedding that is right for you. Our prices are fair. We listen. We recommend. You decide.

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letterfrompublisher

s we enjoy these last weeks of summer, our editorial focus this month turns to children’s health and creativity. These are huge areas to which thousands (perhaps millions?!) of books have been dedicated. With so many aspects to consider, we had to pick just a few. Our excellent staff and contributors were more than up to the task, providing insight and ideas for how adults can foster creative expression and build confidence and emotional resilience, among other positive attributes, with the children in our lives.

Nicole Miale

The appropriate use of vaccines has become a flashpoint for heated national debate in recent months. To have a children’s health issue without addressing vaccines would have ignored the elephant in the room so we have tackled the hot-potato topic. In my experience conversing on the subject, many people – myself included – have a deeply personal story from which they have developed their view. I hope the various governmental and regulatory bodies currently considering the question of whether and how vaccines should be mandated are honest and brave about truly hearing all sides of what is definitely not a cut-and-dried issue. In this issue, we outline the various points of view and provide practical suggestions for how to mitigate vaccination risk, whether the individual being vaccinated is a child or an adult.

Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Lisa Wolk-Kilion Mary Oquendo Community Street Team Slyms Bazile Leslie McLean Sales & Marketing Nicole Miale Virginia Trinque Distribution Man in Motion LLC

Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

There is no vaccine for PANDA/PANS, a syndrome associated with untreated infection which seems to be impacting an increasing number of children, adults and families. Right now there is not much clarity around diagnosis and treatment but educator and PANDA/PANS blogger Lisa Wolk-Kilion provides an overview, as well as tips from her own family’s experience. Bringing family members together is of critical importance and the precious time before school starts offers many opportunities for connection. August brings lots of musical, inspirational and family-friendly events to Fairfield and Litchfield Counties. Natural Awakenings is an enthusiastic supporter of activities which encourage individuals and families to put electronics down, go outside and connect with each other, nature, art, music and food… in community. Check out the News Briefs, ads and calendar section to find some fun, creative things you and your kids can enjoy together this month. You may have to drag them away from the electronic glow, but someday they will thank you and understand that you cared enough to form precious memories. Wherever you go, whatever you do, ENJOY these hazy days of summer!

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 66. Making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings

newsbriefs New Product Helps Prevent Lyme Disease

ymeArrest, a product that helps prevent Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, provides a safe, simple and effective method of tick removal and treatment, according to its developer Professor Plantain. The natural insect repellent induces the tick to remove its grip, and once it’s removed, the tick can be placed in one of the small plastic boxes included in the kit and brought to an identification center to determine if it is a disease carrier. When the wound has been specially treated, it’s covered with an included bandage. One then takes a single highpotency dose of Ledum palustre, also included, which is a preferred homeopathic remedy for tick bites. Professor Plantain has been making herbal products for family and friends for more than 30 years. His personal struggle with Lyme disease left him on crutches with brain fog. Although he was eventually cured, he continued to get bit by ticks, and he developed this product to avoid catching Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. LymeArrest is the first product Professor Plantain has released for public use. He’s releasing this product now because he believes there’s a major epidemic and inadequate tools to prevent Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.

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For more information, visit LymeArrest.com.

Massage Therapy Program Marks Five Years in Danbury

idley Lowell Business and Technical Institute is celebrating five years of massage training at its Danbury campus and classes are forming now for September. Open enrollment is ongoing for both day and evening courses. The institute’s graduates are employed at spas, salons, hotels, casinos, gyms and corporate parks; its career service department is also seeing a rise in the demand for trained and licensed graduates at hospitals, physical therapy, chiropractic and acupuncture offices, and cancer and fertility clinics. Ridley massage students learn traditional Swedish massage, neuromuscular therapies, sports massage, medical massage and spa practices, as well as complimentary modalities such as reflexology, shiatsu and Reiki. The 900-hour massage therapy program combines hands-on and lecture classes with various techniques, origins of therapeutic massage, law and ethics, kinesiology, anatomy, pathology and more. For more information, visit Ridley.edu/Location/Connecticut/ Medical-Fields#Massage_Therapy. Location: 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury. See ad, page 10.

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

newsbriefs Going Green with Shakespeare

ank of America, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and The Ridgefield Playhouse will present the annual Shakespeare on the Green and Green Expo in Ridgefield on August 15. The green living fair runs from noon to 4pm with Shakespeare’s The Tempest taking place under a tent for a seated audience at 2pm on the green outside The Ridgefield Playhouse. More than 500 patrons will experience a contemporary, family-friendly rendition of the Shakespeare play while learning about green living and making sustainable choices about what to eat, how to travel, what to buy and how to use and dispose of materials. Food samples, food for purchase, product information and demonstrations will be available at the event. Tickets are free but must be reserved by calling the box office at 203-438-5795. There is a limit of five tickets per family on a first come, first served basis. Tickets will be held at the box office until 1pm on August 9. For more information, visit RidgefieldPlayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield.

Soak in the Arts at South Norwalk Celebration

ntering its 39th year, SoNo Arts Celebration’s landmark event takes place August 16 and 17 on the streets of the historic waterfront of South Norwalk. This year’s festivities offer attendees an array of outdoor exhibits in addition to workshops for adults and children. Over 120 artisans from all over the nation and Canada will participate in the celebration. Free to the public, the weekend-long event plays hosts to over 30,000 attendees annually and features live music throughout the weekend on two stages. Music will run throughout the festival during the day with Silent Disco making its return Friday night for the kick-off party, as well as Saturday night. The Children’s Art Playground has also expanded, encompassing more themed vendors including the Splash Car Wash Fire Station Playground. A puppeteer workshop will be held Saturday to help build the puppets for the Annual Puppet Parade taking place Sunday at noon. Food trucks will be on the premises and most restaurants will have outside seating. For more information and to become involved in the 2015 celebration, visit SonoArts.org.

GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...

naturally. irritable, depressed or anxious, experiencing muscle pain? You may have an untreated nutritional or hormonal imbalance Call 203-324-4747 for an appointment with a Board Certified, Georgetown-trained MD who is dedicated to treating you... naturally 22 FIFTH STREET• SUITE 201 • STAMFORD, CT • 06905

Michael E. Doyle, Md • 203-324-4747 • GoToDrDoyle.com 8

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Bridgeport Beach Clean-up Precedes Gathering of the Vibes

rom July 30 to August 2, thousands of cars and campers and music fans will gather at Seaside Park in Bridgeport for the 20th Gathering of the Vibes. In late July, The Terrapin Foundation, Save the Sound and the Gathering of the Vibes Ops Crew collaborated for the annual clean up at Remington Beach in Seaside Park in preparation for the event. Dozens of volunteers from these organizations joined volunteers from Citizens Campaign for the Environment, National Charity League, and community members and families (including a few children) to collect nearly 50 bags of debris. Seaside Park, along the picturesque Connecticut coast of Long Island Sound, will host over 50 bands on multiple stages during the gathering, forming a nomadic community averaging more than 25,000 each day. Visitors to Vibes will have numerous activities and experiences, including a silent disco on the beach, school of rock, artisan crafts, international food court, NPO Village, kids’ corner, teens center, ferris wheel, camping and more. For tickets and more information, visit GoVibes.com

787 MAIN STREET SOUTH • WOODBURY 203.586.1172

System | Skin Diseases | Sports/Muscle Recovery Joint Inflammation

www.NaturalSaltHealing.com www.NaturalSaltHealing.com

CWPN Hosts Harvest Gathering Festival

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

he CWPN (Connecticut Wiccan & Pagan Network) will hold their annual 4-day festival called Harvest Gathering, August 13-16 at Camp Cedarcrest in Orange. Harvest Gathering is a festival that balances a strong focus on spiritual education with a fun, unplugged and relaxed atmosphere. Approximately 150 to 200 people come together as a community to enjoy workshops, classes, rituals and entertainment. World-renowned authors and speakers teaching at the event including Ronald Hutton, Raven Grimassi, Courtney Weber, Patricia Lafayllve and Morgan Daimler. Relax and shop at the large selection of artisans and vendors, including henna, massage and reflexology. Day, evening and full-event passes are available with a meal plan option including vegetarian. All are welcome to attend and you must register for the event. Registration ends August 10. Adult passes range from $35 to $150; cabins are $50 (if available) and tenting is free.

Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com

For more details and to register, visit CWPN.org/hg, call 203628-2976 or email HG_info@CWPN.org. Location: Camp Cedarcrest, 886 Mapledale Rd, Orange. See ad, page 41. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

Massage Therapy Program New New Location! Location!

Complete this course in 9 months day classes or 16 months evening classes!

44 44Shelter Shelter Rock RockRoad Road

Find out more! (203) 797-0551 Ridley.edu | Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury, CT 06810

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of the students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.Ridley.edu

~ equestrian gifts ~ pottery ~ buddas ~ crystals of all sizes ~ books ~ angels

Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose

203-438-7146

452 Main Street, Ridgefield

touchofsedonaridgefield.com 10

Fairfield County Edition

Open Every Day Until 5:30

natural awakenings

newsbriefs Holistic Shamanic Practitioner Training Program Offered

eginning in October, Deana Paqua of Embody the Sacred, will offer the year-long Holistic Shamanic Practitioner training program. The 13-month program will incorporate teachings based on the healing traditions of the Americas with an emphasis on the Peruvian/ Andean traditions and Global and Core Shamanism. Students will learn practical, hands-on and holistic techniques for addressing daily Deana Paqua concerns such as physical pain, emotional turmoil, energy clearing and protection, life path/ career path guidance, relationship harmony and spiritual growth. Each student will create their own Mesa—a portable altar from the Andean traditions— for healing, guidance, growth and empowerment. This shamanic training program is for those looking to dedicate themselves to self-healing and self-empowerment with a focus on spiritual connection. This course is meant for Reiki practitioners, bodyworkers, energy healers, therapists, counselors and other health care practitioners who feel called to incorporate more spiritual practices into their work—both for their own healing and to assist others. This program is also for those who wish to deepen their intuition; their connection to spirit guides, angels, ancestors, power animals and Mother Earth to facilitate shifts in their own consciousness; and to strengthen those connections to be of service to others and the planet. Deana Paqua, MA, LMT, is a spiritual teacher, shamanic healer, holistic health educator, Reiki master, licensed massage therapist and ordained minister. She is also an adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University in its health promotion department with over 20 years of study in the holistic health field and 17 years as a practitioner. She has several certifications in clinical, energetic and spiritually based healing techniques, including a master's degree in integrative health and healing. Students will be required to keep journals, complete practice sessions and reading assignments, and attend all classes to attain certification. The program will be offered in the Danbury area. A complete program description and program requirements are available at EmbodyTheSacred.net. See ad, page 12.

coverartist

203.451.7880

www.lorganized.com Applying Principles of Behavior, Learning Styles, & Change into Organizing

Home/Residential • Corporate/Business • Special Populations Mental Health Clients • Seniors • Floor Planning

Margarita Cossuto, Ph.D margarita@lorganized.com

Start Living Energized & Organized!

Spring Fever by Mary Leslie Drawing since the day she could hold a crayon, Mary Leslie also spent much of her childhood collecting stray dogs and cats, injured birds and the occasional squirrel. Because her love of all things furred and feathered was matched by her passion to create, she learned to carefully observe and draw the creatures in her care. Leslie studied art at the Savannah College of Art and Design and the Art Institute of Atlanta, going on to paint murals throughout the Southeast. After moving from suburban Atlanta to a small farm in Madison, Georgia, she began focusing on nature and animals. Spring Fever was commissioned by a grandmother who asked Leslie to paint a representation of her five granddaughters. “She told me that they loved to dress up and dance,” says Leslie, whose richly hued oil on canvas captures the sheer exuberance of youth and joyful movement. “It’s my goal in every painting to convey the character and personality of my subjects and pass it on to the viewers, hoping they can catch a glimpse of what I enjoy so much.” View the artist’s portfolio at MaryLeslieStudio.com.

Kindred Spirits A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

Relax, Enjoy, Let Your Spirit Shine Through Interfaith Ministry Services Energy Sessions (Reiki, Rising Star) Certification Classes (Reiki, Rising Star) Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Ear Coning • Meditation Classes Intuitive/Clarity Sessions Group Workshops • Buddhist Chanting

203-938-3690 www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896

The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. ~Denis Waitley

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 adults. intuitive guidance in working with children,and teens and adults. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

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

ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

shamanic healer, reiki master, spiritual teacher & holistic health educator

ridgefield & new milford ct

www.embodythesacred.net

deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045

Crystal Visions

For a World of Peace & Blessings Spiritual Counseling & Novelties

860-210-9897

www.CrystalVisionsCT.com 12

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

healthbriefs

CT Legislature Votes to Ban Pesticides on Municipal Playgrounds

t the end of June, the Connecticut General Assembly passed legislation to ban pesticides on municipal playgrounds in the state, building on existing bans on Connecticut school grounds. The new law is aimed at protecting small children, pets and wildlife from unnecessary exposure to dangerous pesticides. “This is an important step forward in protecting the health and well being of our most vulnerable populations,” said Louis Burch of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “Pesticides have been shown to contribute to cancer, asthma and developmental delays, and they disproportionately hurt our children. By eliminating these poisons on public spaces where our children play, we are sparing an entire generation of youngsters from the potential health hazards associated with exposure to pesticides. This is a significant victory, and it sets a good example for other states to follow.” The law also improves the existing parents’ notification system by requiring school districts to provide electronic notification at least 24 hours before a pesticide application is scheduled to occur on school property. “Providing advanced notice of pesticide applications allows parents to take precautions to protect their children from unnecessary exposure,” continued Burch. “Providing this right to know is a commonsense improvement, and we commend the legislature for taking this step.” Connecticut established itself as a nationwide leader on this public health issue in 2005, when it became the first state in the nation to prohibit the use of lawn care pesticides on elementary school athletic fields. That law was expanded in 2009 to include middle school fields. This gradual expansion represents a growing consensus among the health and science communities that chemical pesticides pose a disproportionate and undue risk to children. “As we have recognized for many years in Connecticut, children are particularly endangered by pesticides – because these chemicals accumulate in kids’ growing bodies faster than for the rest of us,” said Rep. Andrew Fleischmann, house chairman of the Education Committee, which drafted the 2005 and 2009 laws prohibiting pesticide use on school fields.

CALL FOR WORLDWIDE PROTECTION FROM WI-FI RADIATION

n May, 190 scientists from 39 nations appealed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to “exert strong leadership in fostering the development of more protective EMF guidelines…” The letter was developed by a committee that included professors from Columbia University, Trent University, the University of Washington and the University of California, Berkeley. It was then signed by a host of university professors and researchers from around the world. The directive cited several key studies that have shown that radiation from electromagnetic fields—even low-frequency radiation—is a possible cause of cancer. The WHO adopted a classification for extremely low-frequency electromagnetic radiation in 2002 and in 2011 classified radiofrequency (RF) radiation within its Group 2B—a “possible human carcinogen.” The letter points out that while WHO has accepted these classifications, there have been no guidelines or standards created by the agency or in conjunction with other agencies. It recommends a convening of the United Nations Environmental Programme and the funding of an independent committee to explore practical means of regulating the widespread and uncontrolled expansion of wireless technologies throughout our environment. The appeal also calls for the protection specifically of children and pregnant women and a strengthening of regulations placed on technology manufacturers. Berkeley, California, set a precedent on May 12 by acknowledging the health risk posed by RF radiation and adopting the Right to Know Ordinance, requiring electronics retailers to warn customers about the potential health risks associated with it. It reads, “If you carry or use your phone in a pants or shirt pocket or tucked into a bra when the phone is on and connected to a wireless network, you may exceed the federal guidelines for exposure to RF radiation.” The ordinance requires that the notice be displayed in stores that sell mobile phones.

CONSTIPATED KIDS HELPED BY TUMMY MASSAGE

Hunter Healing Hands Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness

Shamanic Healing • Melody Crystal Healing Reiki • Shamanic Intuitive Readings Acupressure • Professional Space Cleansing for Homes, Land, or Businesses

Jessica C. Hunter Monthly Workshops & Shamanic Drum Circles

Accredited & Certiﬁcation Training Programs in Reiki, Crystal Healing, & Shamanic Healing

Private Healing Sessions by Appointment

www.hunterhealinghands.com hunterhealinghands@hotmail.com

203-916-8381

Althea DePascale

Intuitive Life Coach • Clairvoyant • Psychic Medium Available for appointments in Westport, or by telephone. Call 860 677-8750 or 860 559-3695. Gifted from childhood, I am a highly respected and skilled clairvoyant, intuitive life coach, and psychic medium as well as past life reader and facilitator.

My internationally based clients are from all walks of life. They include medical doctors, attorneys, social workers, teachers, nurses, athletes, widely recognized high profile artists and public figures such as actors.

www.AltheaDePascale.com • ACDePascale@comcast.net

HEDGE

TRIMMING By Thomas

203-790-6741 Danbury & Surrounding Towns

esearch from the University of Washington has determined that chronic constipation in children may be relieved with abdominal massage. The research involved 25 parents and their children with learning needs and physical disabilities. The parents were trained by specialists in abdominal massage. Following the training, the parents massaged the abdomens of their children for 20 minutes per day. The study found that abdominal massage relieved constipation in 87.5 percent of the children and reduced laxative use. In addition, the therapy resulted in better diets for 41 percent of the children and improved the parent-child relationship in many cases.

Transformation For Life YOGA MASSAGE FACIALS

Wellness Center 203-617-8228

6 Walnut St, Danbury, CT 06811 TFLwellness.com

Jill Myruski L.M.T., RYT eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

healthbriefs

How to Protect Children From Tick Bites at Camp by Stacy Skoldberg

hen the phone rings and panicked parents have found a tick on a child who attends camp, they often ask if the camp can go spray the camp fields. The solution can be a little less dramatic if some preventive measures are taken. Wear a hat. Ticks crawl north to the warmest part of the body, toward the head. Ticks especially like children for their extra thin skin (easier to bite) and higher body temperature (easier as a target). If possible, wear the hair away from the face and wear a light colored hat. Wear child-safe bug repellent. Although most bug repellents are not in fact labeled for ticks themselves, the smell often keeps them at bay. Check for ticks daily with a magnifying glass. Taking 10 minutes to teach your child how to check their arms, legs and body for ticks with the use of a magnifying glass can help catch ticks before they attach. Treat shoes with permethrin. Permethrin is a plant-based product safe for children ages 3 and up. Clothing for sale labeled as tick repellant-treated clothes are treated with permethrin. Mist shoes with a permethrin solution and then let them dry; each time the shoes get fairly wet, you should re-apply to the shoes. All tick pesticide applicators treat not only their pants but boots with permethrin. Dress with light-colored clothing. The lighter the coloring of clothing, the easier a tick will be to spot. Use the dryer to dry clothes. Ticks are able to survive hot water and detergents like Tide and bleach. The only way to kill a tick in the laundry process is drying on a high setting for 15 minutes. Stacy Skoldberg is the founder and managing partner of GreenSprays, a Fairfield County company that offers organic tick spray products. She can be reached at Stacy@GreenSprays.com or 203-916-3666.

Sad Music Can Lift Our Mood

study from Free University, in Berlin, has determined that listening to sad music may actually lift our mood. The researchers conducted a survey of 772 people, 44 percent of which were musicians, asking each subject about their emotional responses after listening to sad music. While 76 percent felt nostalgic, more than 57 percent of the respondents indicated peacefulness, more than 51 percent felt tenderness, almost 39 percent had feelings of wonder and 37 percent experienced a sense of transcendence. Fewer than half—45 percent—said they experienced sadness when listening to the morose melodies. The researchers pointed out that people often tend to listen to sad music as a source of consolation, and the music often provides a means for improving moods and emotions.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Glyphosate Self-Testing Now Available

he Feed the World Project has partnered with the Organic Consumers Association (OCA) to offer public testing for a chemical that is now ubiquitous in conventional food production: glyphosate. At $119, the test can check levels of this chemical in tap water, urine and soon, breast milk. “For decades now, the public has been exposed, unknowingly and against their will, to glyphosate, despite mounting evidence that this key active ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide is harmful to human health and the environment,” says OCA International Director Ronnie Cummins. “Monsanto has been given a free pass to expose the public to this dangerous chemical because individuals, until now, have been unable to go to their doctor’s office or local water-testing company to find out if the chemical has accumulated in their bodies or is present in their drinking water.” The testing comes on the heels of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) announcement in March that glyphosate is a possible carcinogen and questions the validity of the industry claims from laboratory animal testing that the acceptable daily intake of glyphosate is .3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day. The WHO report notes, “The socalled safe levels of glyphosate exposure have never been tested directly to determine if indeed they are really safe to consume over the long term. Instead, the ‘safe’ levels are extrapolated from higher doses tested in industry studies.” The test is available at FeedTheWorld. info/glyphosate-testing-test-yourself.

“Education of the mind, without education of the heart, is like no education at all.”

- Aristotle

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This is a great opportunity for busy adults to carve out time for themselves and focus on going back to school. Make an appointment to have your admissions application reviewed and received your admissions decision on the spot. SpACe iS limiTed, RegiSTeR Now!

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

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

Solar Timeshare Buying Kilowatts from Each Other

Air Raid

Carbon Dioxide Levels Go Through the Roof The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notes that as of March, the global monthly average for carbon dioxide, the most prevalent heat-trapping gas, crossed a threshold of more than 400 parts per million (ppm), the highest in about 2 million years. “It’s both disturbing and daunting from the standpoint of how hard it is to slow this down,” says NOAA chief greenhouse gas scientist Pieter Tans. “Carbon dioxide isn’t just higher, it’s increasing at a record pace, 100 times faster than natural rises in the past.” In pre-human times, it took about 6,000 years for carbon dioxide to rise 80 ppm, versus 61 ppm in the last 35 years, Tans says. Global carbon dioxide is now 18 percent higher than it was in 1980, when NOAA first calculated a worldwide average.

Crayon Kicks

Not Just for Kids Any More Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest, by Johanna Basford, are two of the most popular titles on sale at Amazon.com—and both are coloring books for adults. Featuring detailed black-and-white drawings of the flora and fauna that surround illustrator Basford’s Scottish home, Secret Garden has sold nearly 1.5 million copies. Fans include Hollywood celebrities such as Zooey Deschanel, and when National Public Radio asked listeners for feedback, many indicated, “I thought I was alone.” The consensus is that adults are seeking to get in touch with their inner child. Beyond the nostalgic charm of coloring books, it’s also a good way for grownups to unwind and reflect. “So many people have told me that they used to do secret coloring when their kids were in bed,” says Basford. “Now it is socially acceptable, it’s a category of its own.” For a sample coloring gallery, visit JohannaBasford.com.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Yeloha, a new, Boston-based, peer-topeer solar startup, allows anyone to go solar, even if they live in a rented apartment, have a roof blocked by a shady tree or don’t have the funds to buy panels. Customers can sign up for the service either as a “sun host” or “sun partner”. Potential sun host homeowners have a roof suitable for solar, but can’t afford panels. Yeloha will install the panels for free in exchange for access to the solar power the panels create. Sun hosts also get about a third of the electricity created by the panels for free, translating to lower monthly power bills. The remaining power is distributed to the sun partners—customers that want to go solar, but don’t have a proper roof or own their home. Sun partners can buy as many solar credits as they’d like from Yeloha at a price that’s less than what they’d normally pay to their utility. The service is currently operating in Massachusetts only, but has plans for expansion across the country. For more information, visit Yeloha.com/ sunhost.

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Mushrooms Grow on Disposables

Disposable diapers are mostly indestructible, but a group of researchers led by Rosa María Espinosa Valdemar, at Mexico’s Autonomous Metropolitan University, Azcapotzalco, has found a way to degrade the soiled garments by growing mushrooms on them. Disposable diapers can last for hundreds of years in landfills because they contain not only the plant-based material cellulose that mushrooms consume, but also non-biodegradable materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene and the superabsorbent gel sodium polyacrylate. The scientists grew the oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus, on a substance made from used diapers and were able to reduce the diaper’s weight and volume by up to 80 percent. For the experiment, the researchers only used diapers containing liquid waste. They sterilized and ground up the garments; mixed them with lignin from the remains of pressed grapes, coffee or pineapple tops; covered the mixture with commercially available fungus spores; and kept it in a plastic bag for three weeks. The resulting mushrooms had similar amounts of protein, fat, vitamins and minerals as in commercial yeast. They’re not intended for human consumption, but could be used as a supplement in cattle feed. Source: ScienceDaily.com

HVWS_generic_NatAwake_4.75x4.5_July2015_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 6/8/15 8:00 PM Page 1

There is Nothing Common About It

Diaper Discovery

Evolving from a profound understanding of human development and the human spirit, Waldorf® Education offers a unique, experiential approach to education through the arts. NOW ENROLLING: Parent-Child Classes through 8th Grade.

40 Dodgingtown Rd., Newtown, CT 06470 203.364.1113 • www.waldorfct.org Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

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August 2015

No Antibiotics or Tubes Needed

Natural Strategies to Cure Ear Infections by Risa M. Sloves

“W

hy does my child keep getting ear infections?” is perhaps one of the most common questions a pediatric health care provider hears at the beginning of cold and flu season. Middle ear infections – known as otitis media (OM) – are the number-one reason parents bring their children to the doctor and, over the last decade, the number of children with earaches has risen sharply. Approximately $8 billion is spent annually on conventional medical treatments for OM including antibiotics, antihistamines and surgical insertion of ear tubes. However, several studies have shown that for most children, drugs and surgery are not only ineffective, but these costly measures may actually predispose children to recurrences of OM. A study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that children who took Amoxicillin for chronic ear infections were two to six times more likely to have a recurrence of their ear infection than those who received a sugar pill. Ongoing studies at the University of Pittsburgh suggest that only about one out of seven children with OM should receive a prescription for an antibiotic. An earache develops when the tissue lining the middle ear or eustachian tube swells; it causes the opening of the eustachian tube to become obstructed, thus preventing the middle ear from draining properly. As inflammation continues, the production of fluid increases and exerts pressure on the pain-sensitive structures of the middle ear. The obstruction that occurs may be due to physical or mechanical means. Swollen tonsils or adenoids – which may be caused or aggravated by allergies – are one of the most commonly encountered mechanical types of blockages. Biomechanical obstruction such as abnormal structure or function of the skull, the jaw, and especially the bones of the neck, can contribute to and often cause the development of ear infections. These biomechanical problems often develop due to positioning problems in-utero, due to birth trauma, or following a prolonged or difficult labor and delivery; this may, in turn, result in swelling, muscle spasm, decreased circulation and/ or motion, and even misalignment of the spinal bones in the 18

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

neck relative to one another (called a subluxation). These effects can go undetected for months or years unless your child has a chiropractic check-up. In fact, Gottfried Gutmann, MD, one of Europe’s most prominent researchers in the field of physical medicine, has found that one of the most common consequences of upper neck subluxations is an increased susceptibility to ear, nose and throat infections. These findings are so significant to the overall health of infants and children that Guttman recommends that examination of the upper part of the neck be mandatory after every difficult birth. In regard to recurrent infections, he states that “the success of adjustment overshadows every other type of treatment, especially the pharmaceutical approach.” After sleepless nights and the pain of recurring ear infections, you may still be trying to get your child off the antibiotic merry-go-round. The following are helpful hints for dealing with ear infections: • Have your child checked for spinal subluxations by a board certified pediatric chiropractor. If subluxations are present, a gentle adjustment – often with only a fingertip – can be performed to correct this condition. • Children suffering from chronic ear infections often have allergies such as dairy, wheat, eggs, chocolate, citrus, corn, soy, peanuts/nuts, shellfish, sugar and yeast. New, non-invasive diagnostic and treatment methods such as the BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique are effective in permanently eliminating allergies without medication or injections. • Breastfeed if at all possible. • Avoid exposing your child to smoke. • Warmed mullein-garlic oil drops in the ear can help ease pain and inflammation. All remedies should be discussed with an alternative health care practitioner prior to use. • Lymphatic drainage massage for the neck and acupressure may help decrease pain and increase fluid drainage from the middle ear and should be reviewed by your physician. • Avoid sugar (including fruit juice). It slows down the white blood cells’ ability to function and fight off infection. It is also important to increase water consumption. • Vitamin supplementation can be helpful in improving immune function; discuss supplements with your health care provider. • A child who has been on antibiotics has experienced a change in the normal bacterial level of the intestine. It is critical to introduce a probiotic such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or bifidus supplements to restore the normal environment. These approaches are currently being used successfully to care for children suffering from otitis media. It must be remembered that all children are individuals; what works for one child may not work for another. Parents should work together with their child’s pediatric chiropractic physician, pediatrician and other natural health care providers so their collaborative efforts will bring about the most effective and least invasive solution for this common pediatric health problem. Risa Sloves, DC, DICCP, is one of 12 chiropractic physicians in Connecticut who is board certified in pediatric and maternity care. She can be reached at Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care in Norwalk at 203-838-1555 or CTChiropractic.com. See ad, page 32.

eventspotlight

Community Festival Offers Healing and Inspiration

ewtown Yoga Festival is a day of community, yoga movement, music, mindfulness and local wellness vendors developed by a volunteer board of local residents as a fundraising benefit. This year’s festival will take place on August 22 from 9am to 4pm at NYA Sports and Fitness in Newtown. Through the transformative wisdom and practice of yoga, the annual event strives to honor lives lost and release tensions and anxieties that accumulate as a result of physical and emotional trauma. Natural Awakenings Fairfield County is proud to be a media sponsor of the event this year. The 2015 festival will feature authors, doctors and yogis Drs. Richard

Brown and Patricia Gerbarg in a Back to Balance community class with yoga, meditation and other stress-reducing tools. Using the human body as a medium of expression, Pilobolus will also guide attendees to have fun and bring out their inner child. The full day of classes includes sun salutations, a journey dance, a yoga buffet, yoga for children with special needs, relaxation with crystal bowls and more. Over the past two years, the festival involved nearly 500 participants and donated close to $14,000 to a local non-profit whose mission is to offer support and healing to community members impacted by December

14, 2012 in Sandy Hook. “Last year’s yoga fest was incredible, with great teachers attending from across the country. The wide variety of sessions catered to all levels of practice. The guided meditation with music was the deepest I’ve ever experienced. Everyone in the world should practice yoga; this event is a great place to explore and begin your journey,” said Ian Hockley, project director of Dylan’s Wings of Change, which was established to honor the memory of his son Dylan, who was killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Community members can help support the festival in several ways: • Purchase a ticket and attend the event • Volunteer onsite for the day of the event to register guests, assist with yoga classes, provide information, help with vendor organization, babysit and more • Donate monetarily to help cover operating costs, goods and services for the silent auction as well as sponsors for this annual event For interested companies, there are three levels of sponsorship packages available (NewtownYogaFestival. Wufoo.com/Forms/SponsorshipOpportunities). In addition, Newtown Yoga Festival will also hold a silent auction. Vendors who donate items and/or services can attend the event and gain exposure on the event program, website and silent auction display. Attendees are asked to bring their own mats, blankets and props for yoga activities. For more information, email NewtownYogaFestival@gmail.com or visit NewtownYogaFestival.org. Donations can be made through the PayPal link at NewtownYogaFestival.org or send a check payable to Newtown Yoga Festival, c/o SOUND Center, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown, CT 06470. Location: NYA Sports and Fitness, 4 Primrose Ln, Newtown.

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August 2015

The Benefits of Yoga for Children Finding Inner Calm and Confidence by Ellen Bonheim

f you practice yoga, chances are you have learned the immeasurable benefits it can have. Some of the emotional benefits adults realize from a regular yoga practice are an increased sense of calm, stress relief, patience, confidence, energy and positivity. Recently, more parents have realized their kids can benefit too and achieve those same results. From constant social and emotional pressures of social media to the packed schedules and highly competitive culture of sports and school, children today seem to be busier, face more stress and grow up faster than previous generations. With all of this stimulation, how can children find a place of calm, where they can grow confidently and contentedly? Whether a child has a diagnosis such as ADHD or just needs to develop a little more patience, self-confidence or respect for those around them, practicing yoga not only teaches children physical balance, strength and flexibility, but also mental calm and clarity. A trained, experienced teacher who has earned their certification 20

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in childrensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; yoga can design ageappropriate classes to help guide children to learn to find inner calm and control in any situation, concentrate on what truly matters to them, and appreciate the inner beauty that is within every child. There are classes appropriate for any age child. Daddy/Mommy & Me classes for infants to toddlers are geared to develop the important bond between child and parent and start kids on a life of physical and mental health. Preschool and kindergarten classes offer the basics of yoga through fun, imagination and pretend. They teach children the often challenging life skill of moving quickly from silly, raucous play to quiet, controlled calm. Classes for elementary-aged kids maintain the fun, lighthearted atmosphere but extend the periods of asana (yoga postures), helping kids work on prolonged attention and concentration. While still geared for a young audience, classes for middle-and highschool students begin to look and feel

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more like an adult yoga practice. They incorporate more spirituality and give students confidence, strength, positivity, and the ability to love themselves for their uniqueness and ability. Family classes can create a wonderful sense of togetherness and shared experience for the entire family. Like many other children, Peter* is a normal 6 year old boy who has difficulty staying in his seat during school. He sometimes has a hard time listening to others and being patient. In yoga class, Peter loves tree pose. He laughs every time his teacher leads the class in â&#x20AC;&#x153;growingâ&#x20AC;? from small saplings into tall, beautiful oaks, reaching high into the sky, and standing proudly, waving in the breeze. When he needs to sit quietly in class, he remembers this pose and sits tall and still, realizing the quiet strength he feels in class when he stands like a tree. Isabella*, a student in middle school, struggles with self-esteem and is often short-tempered with her family. Since beginning her yoga practice, Isabella is now able to give herself direction and foundation by choosing something she wants to achieve each day. It may be maintaining focus while preparing for a test, taking a moment of quiet contemplation to build her confidence before a big soccer game, or remembering that her long curls are part of what make her unique, special and beautiful. Both Peter and Isabella still have their daily struggles, but they are learning how to handle them with the help of their yoga practices. They are continuing to develop into mature, proud young adults with better coping skills. Consider yoga for your children, whatever their age and unique challenges. It is truly a gift that can help any child grow to be the best, happiest, most confident kid they can be. *Names changed for privacy Ellen Bonheim is the owner of Firefly Family Yoga in Ridgefield. The Firefly team of certified yoga and wellness professionals offer prenatal/postnatal, mommy & me, kids, teen, gentle flow and family yoga classes, as well as services such as Reiki, hypnotherapy, nutrition, meditation, lactation advice, occupational therapy and essential oils. She can be reached at FireflyFamilyYoga.com.

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August July 2015

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reluctant to wash hands thoroughly. Retirees with newfound time for hobbies may also have weakened immune systems at risk to chemical exposure. Everyone benefits from minimizing exposure to toxins.

Papers

GREEN ARTS Tips for Finding Safe Eco-Supplies

Glues

by Avery Mack

“

reative energy is contagious,” says Kim Harris, co-owner of Yucandu, a hands-on craft studio in Webster Groves, Missouri. As one client crafter commented, “Art is cheaper than therapy and a lot more fun.” It doubles the pleasure when we trust the nature of our supplies. Arts and crafts stir the imagination, spur creativity and are relaxing. Yet, for some, allergies, chemical sensitivities

For greeting cards, scrapbooking or mixed media, paper provides background, texture, pattern and color. Tree-free paper uses agricultural residue or fibers from bananas, coffee and tobacco, and EcoPaper.com researchers anticipate similar future use of pineapples, oranges and palm hearts. Labels can be misleading. White paper has been bleached. Processed chlorine-free (PCF) means no bleaching occurred during this incarnation of the paper. Totally chlorine-free (TCF) papers are as advertised. Paper is called recycled if it’s 100 percent postconsumer-recovered fiber—anything less is recycled content.

and eco-consciousness can make choosing materials a challenge. Manufacturers are not required to list heavy metals, toxic preservatives or petroleum-based ingredients, even when they’re labeled “non-toxic”. User- and environment-friendly alternatives may be difficult to locate, but are worth the effort. After working with paint, glue, chalk and modeling dough, children may lick their fingers and be

For most projects, purchased glues are more convenient, longer lasting and easier to use than homemade. White glue and white paste, called “library paste”, are best with porous items like wood, paper, plastic and cloth. It takes longer to dry and needs to be held in place, but there are no fumes. “Jewelry is wearable art, so for mine, I primarily use water-based, non-toxic glues and sealers that simply wash off my hands,” advises Nancy Kanter, owner and

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designer of Sparkling Vine Design, in Thousand Oaks, California. Examples include Elmer’s Washable and Mod Podge. Airplane glue, rubber cement, spray adhesive and epoxy all emit toxic fumes. Instant glue (cyanoacrylate) likewise bonds fast to fingers; toxic, foul-smelling acetate (used in nail polish remover) is needed to remedy the situation.

Paints

Water-based tempera paint is easy to use; Chroma brand tempera removes some of the hazardous ingredients. “I use water-based, non-toxic acrylic paints and wine to paint recycled wine corks for my designs,” says Kanter. “This avoids harsh fumes and chemicals.” Note that acrylic paint can contain ammonia or formaldehyde. Oil paint produces fumes and requires turpentine, a petroleum-based product, to clean brushes. Aerosol spray paint is easily inhaled unless protective equipment is used.

Markers and Crayons

“Give kids great supplies and they’ll make great art,” maintains Harris. “They’ll also be respectful of how much they use.” Go for unscented, water-based markers, especially for younger children that are as apt to draw on themselves as on paper. Soy crayons are made from sustainable soybean oil, while retaining bright colors. Dustless chalk is preferred by some. Colored eco-pencils are another option. Beware of conventional dry erase markers, which contain the neurotoxin xylene; permanent markers emit fumes. Wax crayons are made with paraffin, a petroleum-based product.

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Yarn and Other Fibers

For knit or crochet projects, choose recycled silk and cotton or bamboo, soy silk from tofu byproducts, or natural, sustainable corn silk. Sheep’s wool, organic cotton or alpaca fibers, raw or hand-dyed with natural colors, are environmentally friendly. Rayon is recycled wood pulp treated with caustic soda, ammonia, acetone and sulfuric acid. Nylon, made from petroleum products, may have a harmful finish.

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More Materials

Canvas is typically stretched on birch framing, a sustainable wood. Look for unbleached, organic cotton canvas without primer. Runoff from an organic cotton field doesn’t pollute waterways. Experiment with homemade modeling clay. Many tutorials and photos are available online. Commercial modeling clay contains wheat flour, which can cause a reaction for the gluten-sensitive. For papier-mâché projects, recycle newsprint and use white glue, thinned with water. Premade, packaged versions may contain asbestos fibers. Eco-beads with safe finishes vary from nuts and seeds to glass and stone. For grownups that like to create their own beads, realize that polymer clays contain vinyl/PVC. In making artistic expression safe, being conscious of the materials used is paramount.

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August 2015

pressure or bullying may not share their troubles and only show signs of isolation, lack of interest in social activities or decreased academic investment. Traditional psychotherapy can be of great service to children and teens dealing with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. However, sitting down and talking can be a daunting task for a young person. Expressive writing is a beneficial complement to traditional therapy. It is also very helpful for kids and teens who may not have mental health challenges but who just need a little extra support in exploring their life’s challenges and triumphs. Writing provides a safe space for children and teens to explore their emotions and life experiences. Many kids keep a diary, and this is a great example of expressive writing. Following are some other ways writing can be used to help children and adolescents become more self-aware and express their emotions in a healthy, productive way: • If there is a conflict with a friend or family member, have your child write them a letter expressing their emotions. • If your child has an upcoming event that is causing them anxiety, ask them to write out a description of the worst-case scenario and the best possible scenario. • Help your child increase their confidence by asking them to make a list of their great qualities. This list could turn into a poem or a collage of words and pictures. Studies show that expressive writing has numerous longterm benefits including better moods, increased physical health, higher GPA and improved social interactions. Expressive writing does not focus on perfect spelling, grammar and organization of ideas. However, as students write more, their ability to express themselves in writing improves dramatically and leads to higher levels of academic achievement. Expressive writing is a powerful healing tool that is easy to use and can make positive changes in children’s lives.

The Healing Power of Writing Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center by Shannon Marzella

Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center

ylan* sat down at the desk and put his head in his hands. The final weeks of school were getting to him. Anticipating the transition to his new school and having to say goodbye to some friends was creating a lot of anxiety. As he picked up his pen and began to describe his feelings in a poem, his anxiety started to fade. Dylan was completely immersed in his writing as he bent over the page. Ten minutes later he looked up, smiling. “Okay, I think I’m done.” “How do you feel?” he was asked. His smile broadened and his shoulders softened. “Better,” he said, and he began to read his poem aloud. It is no secret that children and teens have trouble identifying and expressing their emotions in a clear and healthy manner. A fight with a friend at school may translate into a slammed door at home. A child who is dealing with peer

*Name changed for privacy Shannon Marzella, MA CPC, is a certified New York and Connecticut English teacher and a certified professional coach. Marzella is the founder and expressive writing coach at The Center for Expressive Writing in Norwalk. Connect with her at CenterForExpressiveWriting@gmail.com or TheCenterForExpressiveWriting.com

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Creative Arts and Autistic Children Opening Pathways to Expression and Communication by Mimi Lagana

ne of the biggest challenges that young children with autism have is communication The creative arts can significantly impact the lives of children with autism. One of the biggest challenges that young children with autism have is communication. A picture-to-word system called Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is one tool used to teach

non-verbal children with autism how to better communicate through line or picture drawings. The visual depiction of things in the world help these children to understand the world and names of the things around them. However, there is much more to line or picture drawings – or even photos – for these children. Some will automatically want to start drawing and writing letters

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and words for the first time even if they cannot speak. This is a major accomplishment of interest and can eventually transform into verbal language. Use of a white or black board at home with markers or chalk to draw with can open an entire new world of communication and understanding for these children. Many children and adults with autism also have extraordinary gifts in the arts. For example, Iris Halmshaw (IrisGracePainting.com) from Leicestershire, UK, was featured by CNN for her artwork. Even though Halmshaw does not speak yet, she was already recognized and revered at five years old as having Monet-like talent in painting. Another UK artist who did not speak as a child and was diagnosed with autism is Stephen Wiltshire. He started drawing at age five. In addition to his works being internationally recognized, they are published in several books. He also has his own art gallery in London’s Royal Opera Arcade. One of his drawings of New York’s Manhattan skyline is 18 feet wide and was completed in three days after he was taken on a helicopter ride around the city. In her Drawing Autism book about autistic artists, Jill Mullin put together a compilation of autistic artists from around the world. In her forward, Temple Grandin writes that her mother “nurtured her artistic ability” and that she was “encouraged to draw many different subjects.” Grandin later went on to design and draw elaborate dipping vat systems for animals and credits her drawing experience in helping her to achieve that. She is certainly one of the most well known autistic adults in the United States.

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ENLIGHTENED PARENTING Tips for Raising Confident and Loving Kids by Meredith Montgomery

around the country. In growing up, he’s seen firsthand, “If you have a connection with your kids, you can have a lot more influence on them.” Noting that sometimes children Establishing Values feel like their parents love them, but Shelly Lefkoe, co-author don’t necessarily like My dad always of Chicken Soup for the them, Martin emphatold me it was my sizes finding ways Soul: Guide to Effective Parenting, believes that school, my choice, to identify with their children learn what we interests. “I love cars, my grades, my life. and my dad used to model as important values. She tells her daugh- It made me want to invite me on test drives ters they should treat her when I was a kid. Both take responsibility. of my parents took with dignity and respect both because she’s their time to connect with ~Casey Martin mother and, “That’s how me, which had a huge you treat people and that’s how I treat impact on our relationship.” them.” Honesty is also a high priority Christine Carter, Ph.D., a socioloin their household. gist with the University of California Minneapolis college student Casey Greater Good Science Center, recogMartin often joins his father, Kirk, in nizes the importance of talking explicpresenting Calm Parenting workshops itly about values. When we see kids for parents, teachers and students doing something we value, ask them ueled by unconditional love, parenting with presence embraces all potential connections between parents and their children.

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how it made them feel, she advises. “Teens don’t necessarily know that their parents value character over grades,” Carter says, “particularly if parents tend to monitor grades more than aspects of a child’s character. What do you talk about more—their achievements or their character? If it’s the former, consider that you unintentionally might be sending the wrong message.”

Hummingbird Parenting

Overprotection of children by what’s termed helicopter parenting, can cause a disabling sense of entitlement where kids begin to believe, possibly unconsciously, that they are entitled to a difficulty-free life, Carter observes. “There’s an epidemic of cheating because students don’t want to try hard, and they expect to be rescued,” she says. “Although it’s terrifying to let our kids fail, when we don’t let them experience difficulty, they see mistakes as being so awful they must be avoided at any cost. To gain mastery in any arena, we must challenge ourselves, even if that means making mistakes.” “We lose sight that we’re not raising children, we’re raising adults,” says Malibu, California, marriage, family and child therapist Susan Stiffelman, author of Parenting with Presence: Practices for Raising Conscious, Confident, Caring Kids. “Empower them to cope with ups and downs. Help them know and trust themselves by not legislating their opinions and by allowing them to experiment.” Children often struggle with transitions, especially when things don’t go as planned. Martin recommends, “When kids throw tantrums or argue to get out of a challenging situation that’s causing them anxiety, help them work through it. Tell them that you know they’re feeling anxious, that you’ve felt that way before, too, and then help by giving them something specific to do or focus on.” Independent outdoor play has been proven to help kids learn to exert self-control. America’s children aren’t allowed to roam freely outside to experience nature as previous generations did. In Last Child in the Woods, author Richard Louv cautions against

being limited by modern factors such as restrictive subdivision covenants and media-induced fear. “There are risks outdoors, but there are huge psychological, physical and spiritual risks in raising future generations under protective house arrest,” he says. Louv prefers what’s called a hummingbird approach: “Hummingbird parents don’t hover over their kids with nature flash cards; they stand back and make space for exploration and problem solving through independent play, while remaining nearby, ready to zoom in at a moment’s notice if safety becomes an issue.” Armin Brott, host of San Francisco’s Positive Parenting radio program, reminds parents to increase opportunities for independence as youngsters grow. “Test a child’s ability to handle more freedom by providing the opportunity to prove that they can. If they succeed, it’s a confidence builder. If not, it allows them to see for themselves that they’re not ready yet.”

Disciplined Communication The first eight years of a child’s life are the most formative, effecting personal beliefs that will shape the adult that they’ll become, including impediments to fruitful self-expression. A healthy conversational relationship can foster connection and security while respectfully teaching children right from wrong. Lefkoe suggests managing parental expectations while considering what serves the child best in the moment. When a child tries to tell Mom something when she’s distracted, the child may conclude that what they say is

potentially dangerous scenarios, “You If you can’t explain don’t want them worrying about what something to a 5-year-old, their friends will think; you want them about the consequences,” says you don’t really understand thinking Lefkoe. it; they make you think Navigating the Teen Years about what you know. The intense journey of adolescence is

~Armin Brott unimportant. Instead, the mother can acknowledge the importance of what the child has to say and how she looks forward to listening once she’s freed up before eventually giving the child her full attention. Parents can serve as a safe haven for kids. Stiffelman says, “Allow them to speak the truth without being corrected or shamed. If they tell you they’d like to do something you don’t approve of, resist the urge to react with immediate advice and talk to them about their decision-making process. Be present enough for them to let them hear themselves think out loud.” “Children need affection, attention, acknowledgment and unconditional love, not discipline. When you punish kids, they feel absolved: ‘I did something bad, I got punished, now we’re even,’” says Lefkoe. When they get caught doing something they shouldn’t be doing, she recommends (with children as young as 5) asking them, “What are the consequences of your actions? Do you want to live with them? Your goal with this conversation should be that your child walks away feeling like they made a mistake, but it was a great learning opportunity.” As kids mature and are faced with

about discovering oneself and how to reach full potential. Carter says, “I had to constantly remind myself that this is their journey, not mine, and that it’s going to sometimes be dark and difficult.” “The more power you give kids, the less they feel the need to test the universe,” says Lefkoe, who reminds parents that while it’s relatively easy to control young children, rebellious teenagers are harder to handle when they feel they have something to prove to an overbearing parent. Offering calculated risk-taking opportunities that don’t involve drugs and alcohol is beneficial in the teen years. “You want them to know how to handle freedom and be responsible once they are on their own,” she says. “When I got my driver’s license, I always came home before curfew,” says Martin. “I learned that if I could control myself, my parents didn’t feel the need to control me, which gave me a ton of power in my life.” Brott observes that as the parenting role changes, “We can offer to help, but it’s equally important to learn to let go and admire the young adults they’re becoming.” Teens desperately want to not feel like a kid, adds Stiffelman. “They may tell you to back off, but stay present and engaged—like wallpaper. The more you ask their opinion or invite

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them to teach you something, the more they’ll feel your support.” With sex education, the authors of The New Puberty, Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr. Louise Greenspan and Adolescent Psychologist Julianna Deardorff, Ph.D., emphasize the importance of being approachable from a young

age, so kids naturally turn to their parents when sensitive questions arise. “It shouldn’t be about having ‘the talk’; it’s about maintaining an ongoing conversation,” says Greenspan. “Body odor is a good starting point in talking about body issues because it’s not intimidating and can be comfort-

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Conscious Parenting Resources The Body Book for Boys by Rebecca Paley, Grace Norwich and Jonathan Mar The Care and Keeping of You: the Body Book for Younger Girls by Valorie Schaefer The Care and Keeping of You 2: The Body Book for Older Girls by Cara Natterson Father for Life: A Journey of Joy, Challenge and Change by Armin Brott Holistic Mom’s Network HolisticMoms.org 30

Fairfield County Edition

Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv The New Puberty by Louise Greenspan, M.D., and Julianna Deardorff, Ph.D. Parenting the Lefkoe Way TheLefkoeWay.com Parenting with Presence by Susan Stiffelman Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents by Christine Carter

natural awakenings

ably addressed by either parent.” Avoid rushing into subjects they’re not ready for by focusing on answering the questions that are posed, while offering a glimpse into the near future. Deardorff says, “Pubertal changes happen over time, so be patient. Parents have a lot of anxiety and anticipation about puberty. When you start to see the first signs, you don’t have to communicate everything all at once.” Consider throwing a puberty party or a health workshop for a son or daughter and their friends. Invite a parent that is comfortable with the subject matter—a nurse, physician or teacher—to get the conversation started. “Fight the urge to emotionally or physically withdraw,” counsels Deardorff. “Sharing activities is a form of communication, too.”

Kids as Teachers

“By paying attention, we can learn a lot of skills from our kids,” says Brott. Generally, youngsters have a greater tolerance for other people’s mistakes and opinions than adults, and tend to be more laid back. They regularly teach spiritual lessons about giving and receiving love and happiness in ways we never imagined. Through all the inevitable challenges, Stiffelman notes, “When parenting with presence, we orient ourselves with whatever good, bad or difficult moment is unfolding and bring more of our self—our heart, consciousness, understanding and compassion—to hold steady as the seas get rocky. Children offer us opportunities to confront the dark and dusty corners of our minds and hearts, creating conditions to call forth the kind of learning that can liberate us from old paradigms.” It all allows us to lead more expansive and fulfilling lives as we open ourselves to more of the love, learning and joy that the adventure of parenting can bring. When we embrace the healing and transformation that is being offered through parenting with presence, the rewards can be limitless. Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

10 STEPS TO FAMILY HAPPINESS by Christine Carter

appier kids are more likely to become successful, accomplished adults. Looking at the science can show what works in raising naturally healthy, happy kids. Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First. How happy parents are dramatically affects how happy and successful their kids are. Build a Village. The breadth and depth of our positive relationships with other people is the strongest predictor of human happiness.

Expect Effort and Enjoyment, Not Perfection. Parents that overemphasize achievement are more likely to have kids with higher levels of depression, anxiety and substance abuse compared to others. Praise effort, not natural ability. Choose Gratitude, Forgiveness and Optimism. Optimism is so closely related to happiness that the two are practically interchangeable. Teach preteens to look on the bright side. Raise Their Emotional Intelligence. It’s a skill, not an inborn trait. Parents can

help by empathizing with children facing difficult emotions and helping them identify and label what they are feeling. Let them know that all feelings are okay, even though bad behavior isn’t. Form Happiness Habits. Turn these happiness skills, plus the positive skills parents already have, into habits. Teach Self-Discipline. Self-discipline in kids is more predictive of future success than intelligence or most anything else good. Start teaching it by helping kids learn ways to distract themselves from temptation. Enjoy the Present Moment. We can be super-busy and deeply happy at the same time by deeply experiencing the present moment. Rig Their Environment for Happiness. Monitor a child’s surroundings so that the family’s deliberate happiness efforts have maximum effect. Eat Dinner Together. This simple tradition helps mold better kids and makes them happier, too. Christine Carter, Ph.D., is the author of Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents and The Sweet Spot: How to Find Your Groove at Home and Work. She is a senior fellow at the University of California, Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. Learn more at ChristineCarter.com.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

by Sheri Hatfield

ave you ever watched kids play and wish you could bottle that energy and put it to use? An interactive children’s museum planned for the Shelton area is looking to do just that. The Kidnetic Clubhouse is being planned by Shelton residents, Mark and Sheri Hatfield. “We promote the power of play and turn play into power,” says Mark Hatfield, executive director of the museum. They will do this through highly creative, interactive exhibits designed to foster imaginative and/or physical play. “All of the attractions are meant to be a creative backdrop for kids’ imaginations to run wild, some of them will actually harness the energy created by play to power the museum,” he explains. Children’s museums aren’t like history or art museums. They are fun and exciting places where children learn through play and exploration in environments designed just for them. The playful, interactive learning experiences help build imaginations, foster social skills and create life-long memories. They also provide economic opportunities for their home communities by attracting visitors who will spend money with other local businesses.

After the birth of their son, the Hatfields started visiting children’s museums and realized what a great experience they were for their family and the community. “Kids get a chance to get some energy out, use their imaginations and interact with other kids. At the end of the day, everyone goes home happy,” says Mark Hatfield. “We were traveling over an hour at times to find a children’s museum, and wished we had one closer to home.” The couple decided to create a museum in the lower Naugatuck Valley with a mission to improve the lives of children by enriching cognitive, developmental and educational growth through creative free-play and imagination building, all within a fun, safe and sustainable environment. They chose play – specifically unstructured play – as a mission because studies show play is essential to the cognitive, physical, social and emotional well-being of children. Play offers parents and caregivers a chance to fully engage with their children, and allows children to engage with one another. Studies show that the amount of free play children experience has been markedly reduced in recent years. Additionally, a 2012 American Academy of Pediatrics study reported that American children between the ages of two and 12 average seven hours of screen time a day. Kidnetic Clubhouse has a three-phased plan to open a permanent museum location. The first phase is creating a series of mobile exhibits, including giant Lego-style building blocks, an exhibit design studio, a magnet wall and an exhibit called The Kids’ Corsair. The Kids’ Corsair is a kid-sized F4U Corsair airplane that uses a bicycle generator to power lights and sounds. The Chance Vought F4U Corsair is the state aircraft of Connecticut and helped win the War in the Pacific during WWII and again in the Korean War. Some 12,500 Corsairs were built between 1938 and 1945. The aircraft was designed and built in Connecticut by workers at Hamilton Standard, Pratt and Whitney, United Aircraft and Vought-Sikorsky.

The Kids’ Corsair will enable kids to sit in the cockpit to pretend they are flying; their pedaling will turn on lights and sounds, illustrating the concept of powered by play. The plane will be mounted to a trailer and taken to local events as a fundraising and awareness-building tool. Fabrication of the metal frame for the airplane was recently completed at Asnuntuck Community College, with plans to complete the exhibit by early 2016. The second phase of the plan is to secure a temporary location to house the museum until the permanent location is open. The temporary location will showcase the types of kid-powered, imaginative play planned for the permanent location. The final phase is to open a roughly 15,000 square foot museum with both indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits in the lower Naugatuck Valley area and includes plans for energy-generating flooring, a pirate-themed water play area and an enchanted garden with living walls. The Hatfields will draw on their experience as creative marketers to create the museum. Mark Hatfield is a professional illustrator and graphic designer with 20 years experience as a graphic designer for major corporations. Sheri Hatfield is a writer, concept developer and promotional marketer with a specialty in marketing to children. She completed an internship at Disney and went on to market major packaged brands. The Kidnetic Clubhouse will be raising funds to complete the Kids’ Corsair mobile exhibit through fundraisers this summer and fall. They are applying for grants from state, local, federal and private sources to build and buy more exhibits and secure and build out the temporary location. The organization is looking for volunteers to help them build the museum and support its growth. Interested volunteers, sponsors or donors can contact the museum at Info@TheKidneticClubhouse.com.

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August 2015

healingways

The Vaccine Push Mandatory Laws vs. Personal Choice by Linda Sechrist

ront-page headlines Mandatory vaccines The current state about questionable of distrust of scientific pose the latest research, corporate statistics and their impact manipulations, purchased on our lives doesn’t affront to politicians, medical coverbode well for lawmakcitizens’ right ups and whistleblower reers attempting to build ports have left Americans consensus for uniform to informed feeling hoodwinked and mandatory vaccination self-government. intervention. The curskeptical. According to a new Pew Research Center rent rush to pass such study, the public doesn’t trust the inlegislation is largely due to 169 cases formation they’re fed on issues such as of measles reported between January 4 genetically engineered crops and now, and April 17, encompassing 20 states mandatory vaccines. and the District of Columbia, all traced

to a traveler infected overseas that then visited a California amusement park. Common sense and independent research counters the stance that would rob individuals of their moral right to conscientious, philosophical and personal-belief exemption from being subjected to vaccines. Hard evidence in a plethora of published studies further identifies genetic factors that could cause the development of adverse effects to vaccines. Yet, “There is no available evidence on vaccines’ effectiveness that is placebocontrolled, plus the health effects of vaccines in combination have never been studied, certainly not the 69 total doses of 16 types of vaccines given to children starting 12 hours after birth through age 18,” says Sayer Ji, a member of the National Health Federation board of governors and founder of GreenMedInfo.com. “Vaccine risks for anyone can range from zero to 100 percent, depending upon one’s genes, microbiome DNA, environment, age and health at the time of vaccination and the type and number of vaccines given,” advises Barbara Loe Fisher, president and co-founder of the nonprofit National Vaccine Information Center, headquartered in Vienna, Virginia. “Vaccines are not safe or effective for everyone because we’re not all the same and we don’t all respond the same way to pharmaceutical products,” says Fisher. She notes that responses to infectious diseases and the risk for complications can also vary, depending

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upon similar factors. Vaccines are not ment by Toni Bark, now Among the most an integrative physician. responsible for prominent warnings In interviews with pracon vaccine ingredients, ticing doctors, research the eradication concerned doctors, scientists, former pharmaresearchers and medical of diseases such as ceutical sales representawhistleblowers cite dan- polio and smallpox. tives, attorneys and others, gers of the toxin thimeroBark exposes serious sal, a mercury-containing ~U.S. Centers for Disease conflicts of interest. These preservative used in some include vaccine research Control database vaccines and vaccine funding, hiring between adjuvants such as aluminum gels or pharmaceutical and chemical industries aluminum salts added to elicit a stronger and their government regulating agenimmune response against the germ the cies, sponsored scientific propaganda vaccine introduces into our body. used to silence critics, and large-scale Leading books citing telling corruption within the billion-dollar research include Thimerosal: Let the vaccine industry. Plus, it points out Science Speak, by Robert F. Kennedy problems with the National Childhood Jr. and Dr. Mark Hyman; Vaccines: Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 that ConWhat CDC Documents and Science gress passed to give drug manufacturReveal, by Dr. Sherri Tenpenny; Vacers, the government and physicians cine Epidemic, by Louise Kuo Habaprotection from lawsuits arising from kus; and Science for Sale, by David L. injuries caused by childhood vaccines. Lewis, Ph.D. Top film documentaries “Since 1988, thousands of chilinclude Shots in the Dark; Vaccination: dren and adults in America that have The Hidden Truth; Trace Amounts; The suffered brain inflammation and other Greater Good; and long-recognized vaccine reactions have Vaccine Nation. been collectively awarded $3 billion in Bought: The Hidden Story Behind vaccine injury compensation. There are Vaccines, Big Pharma and Your Food thousands more that have been unable resulted from two years of investigative to secure federal compensation for their research in disaster medical managevaccine injuries,” reports Fisher.

What to Ask Before Vaccinating

accines are pharmaceutical products that carry risks. The National Vaccine Information Center encourages parents to become fully informed about the potential risks and disease complications for their own children and pose these questions to one or more trusted healthcare professionals before making a decision.

“At least 25,000 to 30,000 reports of vaccine reactions are filed annually with the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System, operated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control,” says Tenpenny. “Underreporting is a substantial problem. It’s estimated that less than 1 percent of all adverse events from drugs and vaccines are reported.” Vaccine ResearchLibrary.com cites 7,200 journal articles and studies that expose the harm caused by vaccines. “Knowledge is empowering and personal discernment is priceless. The facts challenge the health claims by government health agencies and pharmaceutical firms that vaccines are perfectly safe,” says Ji. “Public doubt, distrust and skepticism are rational and natural consequences.” For more information, visit the National Vaccine Information Center at NVIC.org and the coalition of citizen advocates at NationalHealthFreedom.org. Connect with writer Linda Sechrist at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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fter making the decision to get a vaccine for yourself or your child, it is important to consult with a health practitioner to evaluate where your child or you could use some support to maximize immune system function. The HealSpace, a Stamford-based prenatal and family holistic center, recently hosted a workshop on this topic. The center’s owner and director, Elissa Diamond-Fields, DC, provided information on vaccinations while Jason Barker, a naturopathic physician practicing in Westport, focused on ways to reduce the risks of vaccinations.

Before Common sense steps such as getting enough sleep, eating non-GMO food, organic food with no preservatives or artificial agents and getting enough exercise are key to boosting your immune system. In addition there are a number of therapeutic agents that can help build a strong, competent immune system before you or your child visit a doctor’s office for the vaccination.

• Omega 3s can help increase resiliency and down regulate a hyper-reactive immune response. • Boosting the immune system with vitamin A can increase the antibody response and boost the immune system. • Vitamin B12 is important to proper functioning of the immune system and cellular immunity. • It is well-known that vitamin C helps us fight infections and boosts immune functions. • Support your enzymatic system to ensure optimal cell functioning. Magnesium is a co-factor for over 200 different cellular enzymatic reactions in the body. Other examples of minerals and vitamin co-factors that can help are zinc, copper, magnesium, cobalt, molybedunum, manganese and B vitamins. • Colonize the digestive tract with healthy bacteria with probiotics. Probiotics play a huge role in healthy immune function by populating the digestive tract and directly competing with harmful bacteria for food and colonization space.

During Biotherapeutic drainage is a European technique that focuses on removing cellular toxins and waste. It is important to have a clean pathway for the toxic materials in vaccines to leave and/or be bound up. It is recommended to start drainage before, again right after and then repeat for the next nine days after vaccination. Homeopathic remedies the day before and then for nine additional days after vaccination is also suggested. In addition, botanicals recommended by your naturopath – taken

for one week – can help bind up the heavy minerals found in vaccines. Your practitioner may also offer supplements for gastrointestinal and anti-viral support.

After Many of the suggestions for pre-vaccination can be used following the injection to help the body detoxify – such as omega 3 fish oils, probiotics and vitamin C. If you or your child has an adverse reaction to the vaccine, work with your naturopath to find the most appropriate homeopathic nosode preparation and/or botanical mixture. Biotherapeutic drainage can also be used after vaccination to detoxify. Your practitioner may also recommend other remedies based on your medical history, the particular vaccine and other pertinent information. Jason Barker, ND, a graduate of Bastyr University’s naturopathic medical school, helps his patients restore physiology and alleviate their toxic burden using individualized naturopathic treatment plan. He can be reached at EastWestNaturalHealth.com. Elissa Diamond-Fields, DC has been practicing chiropractic, bodywork and family holistic health care since 1999. HealSpace offers chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, psychotherapy, yoga, nutrition, workshops and other associated healing services. For more information, visit TheHealSpace.com. Ariana Rawls Fine is editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. She resides in Stratford with her family.

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PANDAS/PANS – WHAT’S THE STORY?

Children, Parents and Practitioners Rising to the Challenge by Lisa Wolk-Kilion

ou kiss your child goodnight and she smiles at you before cuddling into her pillow. As she’s been doing for quite some time, she sleeps though the night. But in the morning, a completely different child emerges — one you’ve never before seen or hugged or held. Her personality has been replaced with rage, tics, intrusive thoughts, impulsivity, defiance and separation anxiety. “If your child has an acute onset of tics, OCD, anxiety, aggression, regression or any acute onset of somatic symptoms like sleep problems, urinary changes, infantile behavior or handwriting changes, think about PANDAS/PANS,” explains Nancy O’Hara, M.D., of Wilton. PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus) is the consequence of an untreated strep infection; it is likened to rheumatic fever of the brain. PANS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome) is the result of an assortment of infections including, but not limited to, strep, flu, Coxsackie, Lyme disease and pneumonia. Al38

Fairfield County Edition

though the word “pediatric” is in both names, it is surmised that the disease is not merely a childhood one as there have been cases of adult onset. The encephalitic-type illness is brought on by an infection, resulting in antibodies that barrage the basal ganglia. Although PANDAS/PANS is not Tourette’s or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), it can include symptoms of both. Years ago, the acute onset of PANS would have landed children in psychiatric hospitals. Even now, many children with PANS are misdiagnosed as having depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, ODD, urinary tract issues or Tourette’s syndrome. They are placed on psychiatric medications that can obscure and even exacerbate symptoms while the underlying infection remains untreated. A greater number of doctors now know that PANDAS/PANS exists since 2013, when the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology published a consensus statement on PANS diagnostic guidelines. However, too few pediatricians know how to treat it effectively and many insist, without

natural awakenings

scientific evidence, that PANS is overdiagnosed. “Most of the time, I think it is the parent(s) who figured it out. By the time they do, their child has most likely had multiple psychiatric diagnoses and multiple failed trials of psychiatric meds. If a parent has a feeling in his or her gut that something isn’t right, they are usually correct. More education is needed for pediatricians, who could be instrumental in recognizing this quickly. If they do, parents can avoid years of stress, heartache and frustration, and kids will avoid being misdiagnosed and can go on doing what kids do. The longer you wait for a proper diagnosis, the more this disorder takes away from a normal life — however you define ‘normal’,” says Melissa Machon Giampietro, a parent of a child with PANS. PANS/PANDAS continues to be a clinical diagnosis. Doctors examine blood titers for antibodies to different infections, including strep. An Igenex Western Blot can help determine if Lyme disease is present while other tests can detect additional tick-borne diseases. Dr. Madeline Cunningham has come up with The Cunningham Panel by Moleculara Labs (MoleculeraLabs.com); this test measures antibodies as well as enzymes that regulate neurotransmitters affected by PANS/ PANDAS.

Treatment Treatments include antibiotics (sometimes given long term), steroids (if Lyme is not the underlying infection), plasma infusions (high-dose IVIG) and, very occasionally, plasmapheresis. It can also help to have tonsils removed. “The scariest thing with my son’s PANDAS was his personality change. One IVIG, one tonsillectomy and two years of antibiotics brought my son back,” writes Gunilla Gerland of Sweden. In addition, holistic methods such as homeopathy are being used to treat the PANS symptoms. If Lyme disease is found, treatments are more complicated and there are often accompanying coinfections that can result in additional symptoms. Each child reacts differently to treatments, necessitating a trial and error approach to be taken.

“The problem remains; even if we do get a ‘diagnosis’, there still isn’t any real ‘cure’,” says Josette Stone, a parent of a child with PANS. “Each child responds so differently to so many different treatments. It could take years before you find the right treatment for your child.” Once the autoimmune system is damaged, any germs can trigger a PANS flare. “PANS, like most autoimmune diseases, doesn’t play fair; it’s a trickster,” explains Gabriella True, president of the New England PANS/ PANDAS Association. “If your child hasn’t been diagnosed with PANS but has already been diagnosed with one or more of the diagnostic criteria and suddenly gets worse and develops a new symptom that falls under the criteria, then keep pushing for more answers because the answer might be PANS. It also tricks you into thinking your child’s triggers will always be the same but one day your kid is having another flare but there are no signs of the usual suspects. So you have to figure out what the new trigger is and how to treat it.” It can be challenging to locate spe-

PANS (pediatric acuteonset neuropsychiatric syndrome) is the result of an assortment of infections including, but not limited to, strep, flu, Coxsackie, Lyme disease and pneumonia. cialists who treat PANS and PANDAS. Many parents have discovered social media groups to be a source of information and have learned of knowledgeable providers through these closed support groups. Not all providers take insurance. In addition to working with a medical practitioner or holistic healer, parents sometimes engage cognitive behavior therapists once the infection is under control. They also utilize other types of therapies, from occupational therapy to biofeedback, depending upon the lingering symptoms. Oftentimes, parents need to educate different providers about PANS. It is also important to note that cognitive behavior

therapy will not help much when the child’s brain is inflamed; the infections need to be brought under control first. The lack of information can be life-threatening. Some children see immediate improvement once given the correct treatment. But if a child continues to have flare-ups, it can be difficult to eradicate the PANS/PANDAS. “For 22 months, my daughter was nearly homebound and having daily panic attacks,” says Amy Infanti. “One 30-day course of the correct antibiotic brought her back 90 percent to baseline. The cure was as dramatic as the onset. We are still holding our breath 15 months later, but feel very blessed to have found the appropriate treatment after struggling so long.”

Education Many parents have reported that their child seems “normal” all day, only to fall apart when they get home. This is indicative of the control that these children are exerting, rather than a loss of control. Children will use energy to appear normal in public, holding back tics, rages and separation anxiety but,

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when fatigued, will release their pent-up symptoms in a safe place. PANS/PANDAS does not disappear when the child enters the classroom. If the infections are left untreated, these symptoms will emerge at school. In addition, children with PANS can experience any or all of the following issues that affect academics: handwriting decline, math decline (including forgetting previously learned math facts), attention problems, OCD, sensory issues, tics and memory issues. A child who is working diligently to control tics, urinary incontinence and other symptoms will have a difficult time attending to lessons. It is strongly suggested that parents acquire a 504 Plan through the school so that all teachers are alerted to the fact that this student is ill. A 504 Plan or an IEP can help to level “the playing field” for the child who is struggling with obstacles that other students do not have. Additionally, under a 504 Plan, the school can be instructed to alert parents if there is a strep outbreak or other germs in the classroom, or if new symptoms emerge in school. It is crucial for educators to understand that symptoms are not behavioral but are indicative of a medical illness the child is fighting. The last thing a child with PANS needs is to be punished for one of his symptoms. Emily Klein, an educator and parent in Rhode Island, argues in favor of instructing school nurses. “Having a school nurse and special education director who are knowledgeable about PANDAS plus teachers who are willing to learn about it has been a tremendous asset to maintaining my son in an inclusive learning environment with special education supports. We are seeing school nurse associations hold conferences to educate themselves on PANDAS and PANS. I hope that sweeps the country. Our school nurse even trained a student teacher who would be in my son’s class. I never would have thought to ask her to do so, and I was most grateful when she let me know,” she says.

Community Understanding Although PANS/PANDAS is a considered a medical disease, it is an illness that affects the brain, resulting in symptoms that appear psychiatric. Often extended families, doctors, schools and other groups have no comprehension of the issues that the child and his family face on a daily basis. For

this reason, it is extremely helpful to find a support group, whether it is online or in person. It is important for children to also know that they are not alone, that PANS has stricken many intelligent, creative kids who want nothing more than to be normal again. It is also suggested to educate other members of the extended family. Children with PANS frequently lose friendships as well as drop out of activities and sports. New sensory issues can make it overwhelming for the child to simply go to the supermarket. While the parents’ world flips over, so does that of the child. The entire family, healthy siblings included, needs support.

Hope Some children, such as Amy Infanti’s daughter, and Sammy in Beth Maloney’s book, Saving Sammy: The Boy Who Caught OCD, do recover completely. Other children show degrees of recovery, succumbing to symptoms when exposed to germs. Ongoing medical treatment continues to be integral. Research into the immunoneurological system is currently being conducted in different areas of the country. Dr. Susan Swedo, chief of pediatrics and developmental neuroscience at the National Institute of Mental Health and the researcher who identified PANDAS in the 1990s, continues to study the disorder. PANDAS/PANS conferences are occasionally held throughout the United States as well as in Italy. “No one can deny that our children’s health changes right before our eyes. Regardless of the controversies surrounding the infections that may cause PANS/PANDAS, now is the time to be doing all we can do to treat these kids,” says Wendy Nawara, president of PANDAS/PANS Advocacy and Support. “There is definitely hope for those who are recognized, diagnosed and treated expeditiously.” Lisa Wolk-Kilion is a wife and a mother of two kids. She holds a BA degree in Psychology, an MBA in finance and an MS in Education. Lisa has been an educator for the past 18 years in New York State. She is a blogger and moderator of several PANDAS support groups on Facebook, including one to help families from the tri-state area. Connect with her at PANSlife.com.

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practitionerprofile The Center for Expressive Writing

Shannon Marzella 161 East Ave, Ste 101, Norwalk • 203-241-6772 CenterForExpressiveWriting@gmail.com TheCenterForExpressiveWriting.com Business/Practice summary… services offered: I support and empower girls ages 7-17 and neurodiverse children and teens to develop self-awareness, confidence and self-love through individualized expressive writing sessions.

Shannon Marzella

What led you to expressive arts as a profession and healing path? As an English teacher I saw how writing created a safe, nonjudgmental space for young people to reflect on and process their experiences.

What training and/or certifications do you have? I am a certified Connecticut English Teacher and Professional Coach. I also hold a BA and MA in English literature. How long have you been practicing or using the techniques you teach? I have nearly a decade of experience working with children and teens, including five years of teaching experience in private therapeutic schools. Do you work with clients in their home or does the location vary? I work with clients at my office space, The Center for Expressive Writing, in Norwalk. Do you work one-on-one or with groups of adults or children? I offer both 1:1 individualized expressive writing coaching sessions for girls, women, and neurodiverse children and teens, as well as group sessions for adult women. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about expressive arts and creativity as it relates to your work? Expressive writing is a transformative process that cultivates self-esteem, positive self-image, confidence, self-awareness and expression in young women and neurodiverse children and teens.

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INSPIRED

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inspiredtable Fragrant Basil Juice Café Now Open in Norwalk

ongtime Fairfield County Personal Chef Tanisha Williams has fulfilled her vision of having an organic juice bar with the opening of Fragrant Basil Juice Café on Main Street in Norwalk. Located across the street from the Ford dealership and Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, the cafe has an extensive menu of almost 30 fresh juices and smoothies cater to people with allergies and those looking to live a healthier lifestyle. Most source ingredients are local, organic, dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan-friendly, Williams says. “I’m hoping it’s a place people will appreciate not just for its looks and products, Ribbon cutting at Fragrant Basil but also for the health benefits our products Juice Café offer,” she explains. Launching the juice bar has been a labor of love and a family project; Williams and her husband Sean, along with their son and other family members, all pitched in to create the warm, inviting space. Tanisha worked as a personal chef in the area for more than 20 years and is excited about returning to the work she loves after taking time off to raise her youngest child. The cafe’s menu is dairy-free including organic vegan milkshakes blended with house-made almond milk, energizing shots, and nearly 30 smoothies and juices along with a customizable menu. Toppings like coconut whip cream and dark chocolate shavings are also available, along with fruit bowls and infused waters. Fragrant Basil Juice Café is located at 34 Main St, Norwalk and is open Monday-Friday from 7am-6pm (7pm until September) and Saturday 7am-7pm. For more information, visit FragrantBasilJuiceCafe.com or call 203-855-0050.

Reservoir Community Farm Needs Help to Rebuild

ast fall, Natural Awakenings Fairfield County featured Green Village Initiative (GVI), a Fairfield County grassroots nonprofit that creates social, economic and environmental change through local action. Reservoir Community Farm is an urban farm established by GVI in the heart of Bridgeport, one of America’s largest food deserts. In mid-March this year the community building at Reservoir Community Farm was destroyed by fire. Now they are seeking community help to rebuild this important local food resource. Begun three years ago entirely by volunteers, the farm has grown into a community space for the neighborhood where 40 community garden plots provide space for families to grow their own food. The farm also has production plots and sells produce to the 42

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public school system, at a farm stand, and through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. The farm hosts educational workshops for schoolchildren across the city, teaching about farming, nutrition and sustainability. Reservoir Community Farm is also a significant source of fresh produce for the Bridgeport Nutrition Center, which serves the free and reduced lunch program in Bridgeport’s public schools. The community building destroyed in the fire, known as the Shed, played host to field trips for 24 schools in the city. The building was the repository for teaching supplies critical for the field trips in addition to acting as the central meeting area for the farm and community members. The building also housed the bathroom, washroom and produce refrigerator. They have continued growing vegetables with limited resources that survived the fire, but are struggling to provide the educational support they previously gave to the community. The Fairfield County Community Foundation will match ever dollar raised to rebuild the Shed. After the match, if they reach their goal of $25,000, they will have $50,000 not only to rebuild the community space, but continue to host workshops and field days, advance the youth empowerment program through farm-based skill-building internships, and produce hundreds of pounds of fresh vegetables for Bridgeport Public School cafeterias every year.

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our the Holcomb Farm and meet the staff and students of The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) at their August 17 open house starting at 6pm. The free event will include cooking a dish using wild edibles and a garden tour. Attendees will also learn about the TIOSN one-year certification program. TIOSN is reshaping nutrition education by teaching nutrition, soil health, soil re-mineralization, growing food, foraging, cooking, kitchen medicine and overall sustainable health. Students are now being enrolled for the 2015-16 school year’s Sustainable Nutrition Certification and Remembering Our Roots: Herbal Intensive programs. Location: Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby. To RSVP for the open house or for questions, call Joan at 860-764-9070, email Joan@tiosn.com or visit TIOSN.com. See ad on page 46.

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n less than a generation, childhood obesity has risen substantially, most notably in the United States, according to the article “Child and Adolescent Obesity: Part of a Bigger Picture,” in a recent issue of The Lancet. The authors attest that modern culture’s promotion of junk food encourages weight gain and can exacerbate risk factors for chronic disease in our kids. When concerned parents have a picky child bent on eating only French fries, they could enroll them in healthy cooking classes that offer tastings and related hands-on experiences for youths from preschoolers through teens. Here, children are encouraged to try more foods, eat healthier and learn about meal preparation, plus sharpen some math, geography and social skills. Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Leah Smith, the mother of two elementary school children, founded Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas, in 2011. She offers classes for chefs (ages 3 to 6), junior chefs (5 to 11) and senior chefs (11 to 14). Kids learn how to make dishes such as yogurt parfait popsicles with healthy grains clusters or roasted tomato soup with homemade croutons. “I’m a firm believer that teaching kids about which foods are good for us, and

Starter Recipes for Kids

Kids like simple, elemental tastes and embrace the magic of the three-ingredient approach to cooking. ~Rozanne Gold, Eat Fresh Food: Awesome Recipes for Teen Chefs “Sparking an interest in exploring ingredients and flavors can also lead to learning how to grow a garden and interest in the environment,” she says. For children in areas where such cooking classes aren’t yet offered, there are still fun ways to involve them in healthy meal preparation. Maggie LaBarbera of San Mateo, California, started her Webbased company NourishInteractive. com in 2005 after witnessing the harmful effects of teenage obesity when she was an intensive care nurse. It offers educational articles for parents and free downloadable activities that engage children with healthy foods. “Every positive change, no matter how small, is a step to creating a healthier child,” says LaBarbera. “Together, we can give children the knowledge, facts and skills to develop healthy habits for a lifetime.” Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

ere’s a sampling of healthy snack food recipes that kids love to make—and eat—in class and at home.

Courtesy of TxKidsKitchen.com

why, will positively influence their lifelong eating habits,” says Smith. “Start right, stay right.” Elena Marre, also the mother of two elementary school children, faced the challenge of a picky eater in her family. In 2007, she started The Kids’ Table, in Chicago, and solved her own problem along the way. Says Marre, “It’s amazing how often I hear a child complain about not liking red peppers, dark leafy greens or onions at the beginning of a class. It’s so rewarding when that same child is devouring a dish made with those three ingredients at the end.” Healthy kids cooking classes provide a fresh way to combat poverty, according to the Children’s Aid Society, in New York City. The group started Go!Chefs in 2006 at community schools and centers throughout the city and knows how to make it fun with Iron Chef-style competitions. “When offered a choice between an apple and a candy on two consecutive occasions and with most having chosen the candy the first time, 57 percent of students in the Go!Kids health and fitness program chose the apple the second time, compared to 33 percent in the control group,” says Stefania Patinella, director of the society’s food and nutrition programs. In Minnesota’s Twin Cities region, “We do a lot of outreach with Head Start, community schools and organizations like scout troops,” says Chef Ani Loizzo, Whole Foods Market’s culinary instructor at the Whole Kids Club Kitchen Camp, in Lake Calhoun. “We have many kids that know about organic and biodynamic farming and we talk about that in class. We might focus on a healthy ingredient like tomatoes in a one-hour class or explore the culture of Greece or Mexico through food in a longer session.” Loizzo loves the natural curiosity that kids bring to cooking classes.

Yogurt Parfait Ice Pops with Healthy Grains Clusters Yields: 4 servings

4 ice pop molds 1 cup granola (use non-GMO, gluten-free Kind bars) in small pieces 1 cup organic fresh fruit such as raspberries, kiwi, mango and strawberries cut into small pieces 2 (6-oz) cartons organic dairy or non-dairy yogurt

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continued... Layer ingredients in each ice pop mold like a parfait. Put a sprinkle of granola in first, and then layer yogurt and fresh cut fruit. Add another spoonful of granola to top it all off and freeze the pops for at least 4 to 6 hours.

Raw Banana Ice Cream Yields: about 1 quart

20 pitted dates, roughly chopped 2 Tbsp raw honey 2 Tbsp extra-virgin coconut oil 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 /8 tsp ground cinnamon 4 cups sliced very ripe organic bananas ½ cup raw peanuts, coarsely chopped, optional 2 Tbsp cacao nibs

Yields: 8 bars

2¼ cups rolled oats ¼ cup shredded coconut (without added sugar) ½ cup applesauce 1 /3 cup nut butter (almond or peanut) ¼ tsp baking soda ½ cup raw honey or maple syrup 1 Tbsp milk or almond milk 3 Tbsp chocolate chips Preheat the oven to 350° F. Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl. Mix wet ingredients into a separate bowl; it may help to heat the nut butter a little first. Combine the wet and dry contents.

Adapted from a recipe from Whole Foods Market, Lake Calhoun, Minnesota

photo by Stephen Blancett

Adapted from a recipe by Leah Smith for Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas

Nut Butter Granola Bars

aside to soak for 10 minutes. Drain dates and reserve soaking liquid. In a food processor, purée dates with 3 to 4 tablespoons of the soaking liquid, honey, oil, vanilla and cinnamon until smooth. (Discard the remaining liquid.) Add bananas and purée again until almost smooth. Transfer to a stainless steel bowl and stir in peanuts and cacao nibs. Cover and freeze, stirring occasionally, until almost solid—4 to 6 hours. Let ice cream soften a bit at room temperature before serving.

Put dates into a medium bowl, cover with lukewarm purified water and set

Line a 9-by-13-inch pan with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 minutes. Let them cool completely before cutting. Store in a plastic container separated by parchment paper. They should keep for about two weeks and may be refrigerated. Adapted from a recipe by Kensey Goebel for Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas

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natural awakenings

cording to Hall, and the risk of infection can be high, especially if it impacts cartilage. “Some skin rejects piercings, and you can end up with permanent scars,” he adds.

Think Before You Ink

Healthier Alternatives

How to Make Body Art Safe and Reversible by April Thompson

ew things in life are more permanent than a tattoo. Yet those most likely to change their life course—in careers, relationships or fashion styles—are also most inclined to get inked. Nearly 40 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 have at least one tattoo, according to a Pew Research Center poll. “If you change your hairstyle or look often, you probably aren’t a good candidate for a tattoo, because of the limited flexibility to change that decision,” says Dr. Gregory Hall, a primary care physician in Cleveland, Ohio. Hall created the website ShouldITattoo.com to help inform others after seeing so many patients that regretted the tattoos of their youth. Hall has also authored Teens, Tattoos, & Piercings to try to reach school-aged kids before they even consider body art.

Career Concerns

The Millennial generation, which is getting inked in record numbers, is also the leading demographic for ink removal. More than half the tattoos removed by medical professionals in 2013 were for people between 19 and 34 years old. Removal often costs many times more than being tattooed, sometimes requiring a dozen or more sessions over several months. Beyond the likelihood of chang-

ing one’s mind about a tattoo, Hall cites employment, discrimination and health concerns in urging teens to decline getting inked or pierced. Employers have the legal right to reject a job candidate because of a tattoo—a challenging fact of life for young people to reconcile when they’re still undecided on a career path. Different branches of the military have their own restrictions on body art, which can include the tattoo’s size, placement and subject, while some companies ban tattoos and piercings altogether. The commitment of a tattoo never interested Lauren Waaland-Kreutzer, 25, of Richmond, Virginia. “I don’t know how I’m going to age and who I’ll be in five years,” she says. Two days after turning 18, however, she got her nose pierced, a decision she hasn’t regretted, even though it’s affected her employment. “While I was working my way through college, I gave up slightly better paying jobs in order to keep my piercing,” she says. Her current employer, a local nonprofit in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is piercing-friendly, but she has friends that have to cover their tattoos and piercings at work; a former classmate-turned-lawyer even had to remove a small star tattoo from her wrist. While piercings are more reversible than tattoos, they are also more prone to certain health risks. Tongue and cheek piercings can accelerate tooth decay, ac-

The good news is there are more natural, less permanent alternatives for young adults to adorn and express themselves, including custom-made temporary tattoos, plus magnetic and clip-on jewelry that are indistinguishable from a permanent piercing. Temporary tattoos work to try out the look before possibly committing. Henna tattoos, an import from India, are another popular alternative, although Hall has seen many patients develop allergic reactions to this plant-based ink, so it’s always best to test on a small spot first. Permanent organic inks fade more over time, a downside for someone that keeps a tattoo for life, but “come off beautifully” in a removal process compared to the standard heavy metal inks, reports Hall. Also, “We just don’t know yet what impact the heavy metals may have on people’s immune systems down the road,” he says. “Organic inks are much safer.”

Helpful Facts

State laws vary regarding age criteria, some allowing tattoos at any age with parental consent. Hall’s tattoo website has a downloadable contract to encourage kids to talk with their parents before making a decision, regardless of the need for consent. Name tattoos, even those of loved ones, are among the tattoos most likely to be removed later in life. Hall saw this with a young man that had the names of the grandparents that raised him tattooed on his hands. He said, “I still love them, but I’m tired of looking at them and I have got to get them off me.” A Harris Interactive poll revealed that a third of company managers would think twice about promoting someone with tattoos or piercings—a more critical factor than how tidy their workspace is kept or the appropriateness of their attire. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

The Toxic Truth fitbody About Tattoos by Anya Vien

he spike in popularity of tattooing that began a couple of decades ago in America and Europe continues to spread worldwide. Those considering getting one will do well to carefully review the options and the health dangers related to traditional tattoos. Tattoo inks contain heavy metals, and red inks often contain mercury. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any tattoo pigments for injection into the skin. Tattoo parlors are regulated by states and municipalities, but the FDA doesn’t require manufacturers to release ink ingredients. The lack of regulation is unsettling, as some 45 million Americans have been inked. Many tattoo ink pigments are industrial-grade colors suitable for printer ink or automobile paint, and the FDA warns that it may possibly cause infections, allergic reactions, keloids (fibrous scar tissue), granulomas (response to inflammation, infection or a foreign substance) and potential complications connected with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The carrier solution used in tattoo inks also contains harmful substances such as denatured alcohol, methanol, antifreeze, detergents, formaldehyde and other toxic aldehydes. A study in the journal Medicine by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, in Dallas, links commercial tattoos to the spread of hepatitis C. Dr. Robert Haley, a preventative medicine specialist and former U.S. Centers for Disease Control infection control official, comments, “We found that commercially acquired tattoos accounted for more than twice as many hepatitis C infections as injection-drug use. This means it may have been the largest single contributor to the nationwide epidemic of this form of hepatitis.” Anya Vien is the owner of Living Traditionally.com, focusing on naturally healthy and sustainable living.

Fairfield County Edition

Swimming in Nature Splashing Safely in Lakes and Oceans by Lane Vail

ostonian avid open-water swimmer Kate Radville is delighted that water constitutes 70 percent of the Earth’s surface. “The controlled environment of a swimming pool is convenient,” she says, “but splashing around outside in the beautiful summer sunshine is undeniably liberating.” Enthusiasts are both attracted by the rugged beauty of wild water and humbled by its power, but without proper skill or knowledge, swimming in natural settings can be risky. “Millions of dollars are annually spent on advertising, tourism and beach restoration projects to bring people to water,” says Dave Benjamin, executive director of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, “yet, the American Red Cross finds that 54 percent of Americans lack basic water emergency lifesaving skills.” Maximize enjoyment and safety in the open water by heeding basic guidelines. Be Weather Wise. Check the forecast before heading out and be conscious of any sudden climate changes. Leave the water or the area in the event of thunder or lightning. Tall buildings or mountains may block the view of the sky, and storms can pop up quickly, so

natural awakenings

Benjamin recommends using a batterypowered portable radio or smartphone app for weather updates. Wind and atmospheric pressure shifts can stir up waves for hours, so hesitate before returning to the water after a storm. Glean Information. “I can’t think of a time I’ve jumped into water I knew nothing about,” says Radville. “Some research prior to swimming is definitely advisable.” Renowned coach Steven Munatones, founder of the World Open Water Swimming Association, suggests walking along the beach to look for caution signs, surf conditions boards, flags, buoys, rope lines and available rescue equipment, plus emergency callboxes that pinpoint one’s location if cell phone service is weak. Even seemingly pristine waters can be contaminated by harmful bacteria, algal blooms or runoff pollutants after rain. “Chat with local beach-goers, swimmers, boaters or fishermen about current swimming conditions in designated areas,” counsels Munatones, and check social media sites like Facebook and area online swimming forums. Steer Clear. Be mindful of hidden

Nature is unpredictable, and there are inherent risks associated with swimming in open water, so I always swim with a buddy for companionship and basic safeguarding. ~Kate Radville underwater hazards, ranging from sharp objects to submerged construction, which can create turbulent water and strong undercurrents. Swim in lifeguard-protected areas away from windsurfers, jet skiers and boaters that may not hear or see swimmers, adds Munatones. Respect Marine Life. Munatones advises giving marine life, however beautiful, a wide berth. “I’ve swum around the world with all sorts of intriguing sea life,” he says, “and these are wild animals, not the friendly ones you see in marine parks.” Stop swimming and watch the animal until it’s moved on. Be Water Wise. Water temperature, depth and movement, which fluctuate with rain, tides and wind, can also make conditions unpredictable, so research a destination beforehand. Pockets of cold water within an otherwise tepid mountain lake could induce a gasp response or hyperventilation, says Munatones, and prolonged immersion increases risk of muscle impairment and hypothermia. Likewise, an unexpected drop in the water floor may provoke panic. “Physically, someone capable of swimming in three feet of water can also swim in 300 feet,” says Munatones. “But mentally, deep water can feel spooky.” Rip currents are powerful streams that flow along the surface away from the shoreline. They may be easily spotted from the beach, but often go unnoticed by swimmers. “A potentially fatal mistake is allowing a ‘fight-or-flight’ response to kick in and trying to swim against the current, because rips are treadmills that will exhaust your energy,” cautions Benjamin. Instead, flip, float and follow the safest path out of the water, a technique that conserves energy and alleviates stress and panic, he says. Watch for Waves. Swim facing oncoming waves and dive under the powerful white foam, coaches Munatones. “Feel the swell wash over you before coming up to the surface.” If knocked off balance by a wave, relax, hold your breath and wait for the tumbling to cease. Swim toward the light if disoriented under the water, and make sure your head is above any froth before inhaling. “Your lungs are your personal flotation device that keep the body buoyant,” says Benjamin. “Lay back and focus on your breathing.” While Coast Guard-approved flotation devices should be worn by children at all times, they are not substitutes for supervision, says Rob Rogerson, a lifeguard and ocean rescue training officer in Palm Beach County, Florida. “Parents must watch swimming and non-swimming children vigilantly.” “The power of the open water is immense,” says Munatones. “Be respectful, always.” Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

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FROZEN FRUIT KABOBS (Serves 4)

Strawberries, pineapple chunks and bananas are soaked in orange juice and honey, then coated with shredded coconut and chocolate and served frozen on a stick. A spectacular treat on a hot summer evening, these fruit kabobs are proof that some desserts are as tasty as they are good for you.

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup orange juice 2 tablespoons orange blossom honey 16 medium strawberries 16 fresh pineapple chunks 2 bananas, sliced 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut 1/4 cup finely grated or shaved chocolate

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, stir together orange juice and honey. Add strawberries, pineapple and bananas and toss to coat. Thread fruit onto 8 wooden skewers in any order you like. • Place coconut and chocolate on separate large plates or combine them on one. Roll kabobs in coconut and chocolate, using your fingers to help coat fruit if needed. Place kabobs on the prepared baking sheet, cover and freeze until fruit is completely firm, at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

petbriefs Tails of Courage Run with the Pack Fun Run/Walk

n August 29, local animal rescue group and shelter Tails of Courage will hold their first annual Tails of Courage 5K run/walk, called Run with the Pack. Bring your families and dogs to help support the organization by walking or running a fast, flat course through downtown Danbury. The event start time is 8:30am and entry costs $25 before August 15 and $30 after that date. All proceeds from the event will go toward renovations at the rescue organization’s permanent shelter at 39 Smith Street in Danbury.

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

The Tails of Courage Run with the Pack 5K will start at Danbury Green, 186 Main St, Danbury. To register or for more information, visit RaceEntry.com/race-reviews/tailsof-courage-run-with-the-pack-5k-runwalk or call 877-63-TAILS. For more information about the rescue, visit TailsOfCourage.org

Friends of Felines August Adoption Event & Just Cats Adoption Location

News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions

riends of Felines will hold an adoption event at Stamford’s PetSmart location on August 1 from noon to 3pm. They are now accepting applications prior to the event, which will streamline the process for an individual who meets a cat they would like to adopt that day. Anyone who is unable to attend on August 1 may want to visit Friends of Feline adoptable cats at Just Cats Veterinary Hospital in Stamford. Just Cats has been providing veterinary care in the Stamford area since 1991 and their expanded facility includes a permanent adoption area inside the Just Cats Store on the first level. The Just Cats store and adoption areas are open from 8am Monday through Saturday. Friends of Felines, Inc. is recognized by the State of Connecticut as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization – adoption fees and donations are tax-deductible. They are located in Stamford and prefer to place cats close to home including the towns of Bethel, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Danbury, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, New Fairfield, Newtown, Norwalk, Redding, Ridgefield, Shelton, Sherman, Stamford, Stratford, Trumbull, Weston, Westport and Wilton. Stamford PetSmart is located at 288 West Ave, Stamford. For more information, call 203-353-9807. Just Cats Veterinary Hospital is located at 1029 East Main St and can be reached at JustCatsOnline.com. Friends of Felines can be reached at AdoptAPet.org or 203-363-0220.

IS YOUR DESTINATION WELLNESS? Do you want to maintain or achieve wellness for you, your family and your pets easily and affordably?

For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call

Call now for a free no-obligation consultation

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

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203-994-5308 • 203-994-1815 HandsAndPawsReiki.com • ReikiHandsAndPaws@gmail.com

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Walking The Cat Harness a Curious Cat for a Lively Stroll

Photo courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society

naturalpet

the collar. Warfle’s own cat, Earl, hikes about two miles before tiring. A backpack-like pet carrier lets a feline take a break. Adapt the walk’s length or location to a pet’s age and physical limitations, such as arthritis. “Jabez always loved to walk on Ventura’s wet sandy beaches,” says Californian Kac Young, a naturopath with a Ph.D. in natural health. “His second choice was a trip to Home Depot to ride in the cart.” Now 18, Jabez doesn’t travel as often. Routinely check kitty’s neck, tail, stomach and inner thighs to pick off fleas and ticks after an outing before they become a bigger problem. (For an infestation of fleas, comb the cat with natural dishwashing detergent and water to drown them and rinse kitty afterward.) Pet-grade diatomaceous earth is safe to rub into her fur and bedding. Consider yard plants like mint, lemongrass, sage and lavender to repel bugs. Multiple studies suggest catnip, which kitty can roll in, may be an even more effective mosquito repellant than the toxic DEET (mosquitoes spread heartworm). Cat companions agree that when kitty explores a blade of grass or pounces on a blowing leaf, it presents a delightful opportunity to be in the moment. A change of pace benefits those on both ends of the leash.

by Sandra Murphy

ats live longer these days, due to improved food, regular veterinary care and indoor living, but there’s another aspect of health to consider. To thrive, cats need mental and physical stimulation, which outdoor adventures naturally deliver. “Leash walking’s a great way for cats to get fresh air, exercise and explore,” says Utica, New York, Veterinarian Debra M. Eldredge, author of Cat Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook. Kitty’s senses are activated in such expanded horizons. For trips outside the yard, Eldredge advises, “Choose your places and times; you don’t want to mingle with joggers and skateboarders.” Cats have definite preferences. “Jagger walks around the block with my husband, Rob,” says Anna Easteden, an actress in Los Angeles. Jagger has no problems with dogs he meets, but not all cats are so tolerant. “Star walks only in the yard, companioned by Fuzzy and Boots.” All four are microchipped in case of an escape. Carrie Aulenbacher, of Erie, Pennsylvania, author of The Early Bird Café, first got her cat Daisy used to a harness indoors before venturing outside. “Now he runs to the door and meows to go out,” she says. Daisy’s been hiking for 10 years. View some of his adventures at Tinyurl.com/DaisyTheHikingCat. Boston insurance underwriting assistant, cat blogger and artist Koshka Koh routinely walks her Abyssinian therapy cat, Jake. “We can’t hurry. People ask questions and want to pet him. They say, ‘I wish my cat could do that.’”

Good to Know Tips The Best Friends Animal Society, in Kanab, Utah, averages 625 cats in residence and Society Manager Michelle Warfle supports an enriched environment. “We teach as many cats as possible to leash walk,” she says. Her tips include: Don’t progress too quickly, keep walks fun and use a harness, not

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Cat Walk Savvy by Darlene Arden n Cats need to get used to an idea before embracing it. Proceed slowly. n A collar is for ID tags, not walking—a cat can wiggle out of a collar. A harness, properly fitted at the pet supply store, is best. Designate a comfortable, padded, wider harness solely for walking, not to restrain the cat in the car (a crate is safer). n Let a cat see and smell the harness before putting it on. Small treats help. Don’t let the cat bat it like a toy. Put the harness on for short spans each day until he’s used to it—cats tend to fall over, “paralyzed”, when it’s first introduced. n After the harness has been worn comfortably, add the leash and let him drag it around in an enclosed outdoor space. Never use a flexi-lead/retractable leash. A six-foot bungee (stretchy) or woven leash allows space to explore without getting tangled in a bush or beyond reach. n Leash walk around the house without pulling, yanking or dragging—just do some pet-paced walking. n Don’t force the next step, because the outdoors can be a big, scary place; most cats need to observe first before exploring. n Use lots of praise and treats. Darlene Arden is a certified animal behavior consultant from Boston and author of The Complete Cat’s Meow and Beautiful Cats. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

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Increasing connection while decreasing stress by Mary Oquendo

hen you think of childhood, what visions come to mind? Is it any number of idyllic scenarios where a child is loved and has no worries in the world? Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Many children have to contend with the aftermath of school shootings, natural disasters, sudden peer deaths, physical/ sexual abuse and unstable home envi-

ronments. Without intervention, these children can suffer both short- and long-term effects. One way to help these children overcome traumatic events is with emotional therapy dogs. Dogs offer a non-threatening therapeutic option for children who may be fearful of adults. The very presence of a dog may provide that child a safe harbor. The

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The Power of Emotional Therapy Dogs for Children

Fairfield County Edition

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physical benefits of therapy dogs can include decreasing the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, increasing the “happy” hormones oxytocin and dopamine and lowering blood pressure. The mental and emotional benefits of the interaction can encourage a child to participate in the therapy, decrease emotional distress, reduce thoughts of alienation, and increase verbal communication and socialization. While service dogs require extensive training to help with mobility, hearing, sight, medical response, autism and psychiatric assistance, emotional support dogs need little training. They need to have a calm temperament and enjoy being petted by many people while not being easily frightened or overly excitable. Emotional therapy dogs can provide service to individual children or large groups.

The physical benefits of therapy dogs can include decreasing the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, increasing the “happy” hormones oxytocin and dopamine and lowering blood pressure. Gizmo is a certified therapy dog with Paws For Friendship, Inc. (PawsForFriendshipInc.org), a nonprofit originally founded in 1993 in Nebraska that offers community outreach, mentoring and other therapy pet programs. The barely four-pound dog’s owner and partner, Jen Adams, knew he was destined for therapy work from the start. “Even as a puppy, Gizmo seemed to be in tune with people’s emotions. One of the earliest times he showed us this was one day when we were walking on a trail in the woods. There was a teenage boy sitting against a tree a little way off the trail. Gizmo walked directly over to him and crawled in his lap! I asked the boy if that was ok with him, but he would not answer. He sat quietly as he began to gently pet Gizmo. Gizmo nestled in closer. Since the boy refused to talk and looked comfortable with Gizmo on his lap, I simply stayed near. Soon a woman came walking down the trail. She stopped and introduced herself as the boy’s mother. I explained how Gizmo sat in his lap and wouldn’t move. The woman’s eyes filled with tears, and she explained that the boy had just lost his father in an accident. Gizmo knew.” Gizmo started his training at a commercial training facility. He began with puppy and basic obedience classes and then passed the evaluation to become certified with Paws For Friendship at age two with a trainer’s help. Three years later, Gizmo and Adams continue to visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, juvenile detention facilities, group homes, a dialysis clinic and rehab facilities. Gizmo is Hartford Public Library’s Paws To Read dog and the Official K9 Unit of their Security Team. Most recently, Gizmo became the first known therapy dog in Connecticut to join a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Adams is currently working toward a master’s degree in human service counseling – crisis response and trauma. She and Gizmo will team up as CERT members to provide psychological first aid to those in disaster or crisis situations

when CERT is activated. Their work with CERT might involve visiting storm shelters, sitting with families who are waiting to hear from loved ones in a search and rescue situation, or visiting with families who are displaced after a fire. Gizmo also makes public appearances to raise awareness for a number of causes, including pet rescue, cancer research, disabilities awareness, children’s and veteran’s charities and more. He has appeared on nationally syndicated TV shows in both the U.S. and Canada, and has his own spot on Pet Radio called The Gizmo Report. “Gizmo has impacted many lives, my own life included. He found me shortly after a very difficult life transition. Gizmo forced me and taught me how to step out of myself and reach out to others. He taught me the power of kindness and compassion and forgiveness and unconditional love. He taught me that just being me is enough. And he guided me through the darkness into an amazing new light. It’s like his presence in my life woke me up! And I learned just to follow his lead.” While you cannot always shield your children from the horrors in life, you can help them recover with emotional support dogs like Gizmo. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the co-owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All in New Milford. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 50. To learn more about Gizmo and see where he is making his next appearance, visit Facebook.com/GizmosFrens.

UNLEASH YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Fetch new customers by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ Monthly Section Naturally Healthy Pet.

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August 2015

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

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

BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org

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

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

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

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC. PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org

Fairfield County Edition

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

TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

natural awakenings

PET NUTRITION PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD LLC PO Box 794 New Milford 603-706-0739 Paul@PaulsCustompPetFood.com PaulsCustomPetFood.com Nutrition is your pet’s best friend. We create handmade, personalized pet food and treats with ingredients that are organic, free of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, added growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics, and preservatives. Food is handmade in small batches. See website for details about ordering or customizing for your pet’s special needs. See ad, page 52.

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

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 only 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 an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 54.

calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

Magazine calendar events must be received by August 12 (for September issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page. SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 Empowering Relationships II – 9:30am-5pm. Seminar about relationships we have with others and those we have with ourselves. Begin to understand why people behave the way they do in relationships. Learn simple tools to break the patterns that repeat in our life. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Bldg #1, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years). Includes latest info. Learn Reiki for self-healing and healing others. 4 powerful energy connections, from short (Japanese/Usa) linage, 2 manuals and certificate. $115+ $10/materials. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

ings, Tarot Cards, Pendulum Readings, Past Life Connections, Reiki and Pranic Healing sessions available by appointment. Sessions approx. 25 mins. Readings $45 and up, $30/healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10Cats@optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition Monday, August 17 • 6-8:30pm Come for a walk-about to learn about our one-year certification program. Tour the farm and garden, meet staff, discover wild edibles, prepare a simple dish. Free. Holcomb Farm 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby RSVP: 860-764-9070

TUESDAY, AUGUST 4 Meditation for Busy People – 7-8:30pm. With Beth Leas. Simple strategies to reduce tension, minimize chronic stress and quickly relax and unwind. Fun and enlightening evening, with the opportunity to slow down time and create space for relaxation. Sponsored by ProMindful.org . Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@ BethLeas.com. Promindful.org.

Reiki Review and Reattunement – 1-3pm. Specifically designed to provide support for practitioners who are still new to their Reiki practice, or who need to get a jump-start after some time away - or those who are looking for a Reiki re-attunement. All levels. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Crystals and Gardens: Enhance your Plants, Flowers and Vegetation with the Power of Crystal Energy – 7-9pm. Learn how to use healing crystals to enhance plant growth, health and vegetation production for house plants and gardens. Lecture and techniques for holistic organic gardening combining the metaphysical and scientific will be explored. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5

Meditation – 9:30-11am. Active style meditation that often includes chanting, music, and requires your active participation. Meant to transform you, healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), bldg #1, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

TLC Healing Circle Open to All – 7-9pm. Curious about energy healing? Looking for renewed health and wellbeing? All new to energy healing and practitioners of all modalities and levels are welcome. Healing meditation and an opportunity to receive and/or give energy work. $20. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Spiritual Psychic Fair – 1-5pm. Gifted and caring intuitive readers available to help you connect to spiritual guidance. Mediumship and Psychic Read-

Open House at the Farm

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 A Presence Circle – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel & Stacey Sherman. Evening of meditation, sound,

frequencies and exploration to experience peace, self-love, compassion and connection. Registration required. $33. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@ LotusWellnessCtr.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 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. Shamanic Drum Circle – 7:30-10:30pm. Join us to connect with energy, spirit and Mother Earth through sacred Shamanic drumming, rattling and Shamanic healing. All levels welcome, no experience necessary. $20. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 Reiki 1 Certification Training – 9am-2pm. Taught by Beth Prins Leas (20+ years). Great starting point for those interested in energy healing and a great adjunct for practitioners/teachers of other modalities. You will also learn hand positions for treatment of others and an attunement into the Reiki System. $245. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Personal Wellness Center Inspiring You to Live Your Best Life! • Intuitive/Psychic Readings • Mediumistic Readings • Holistic Health Coaching • Health & Healing Program for Cancer Patients

1895 Post Rd, Fairfield Sage Osa 203.767.6237 ~ MyPersonalWellness.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

calendarofevents MONDAY, AUGUST 10

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14

TLC Play Camp for Women: The Art of Inquiry – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Who are you? Asking yourself challenging questions leads to powerful insights and discoveries. We kickoff this TLC Play Camp weeklong series with this provocative and playful process of inquiry. $49. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

TLC Play Camp for Women: TLC Tarot Friday – 10:30am-12:30pm. What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful class. Receive a reading from Beth Leas - guaranteed to be a positive experience leaving you feeling empowered and with new insights. $49. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Friday – 7-9pm. What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful event designed for everyone from novices to long-time tarot friends. Explore the tarot or develop a deeper relationship with the cards. Receive a reading from Beth Leas. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@TLCTarot.com. TLCTarot.com.

TLC Play Camp for Women: Charge Up Your Chakras! – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Explore your Chakra Energy Centers with this fun class designed to recharge, renew and rejuvenate your body/mind/spirit. Find balance and harmony using meditation, energy healing techniques and much more. $49. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12 TLC Play Camp for Women: Create a Vision Board – 10:30am-12:30pm. Do you have a vision board? Join us to create your own Vision Board - this is the Craft Day of our Play Camp - which will lead you to the hidden side of your authentic self. $49. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13 Divorce Support Group – 10-11am. Learn how divorce can be a time of great personal growth. Lean on others who are also going through the process. Explore tools designed to help you learn more about who you are. $50/founding member. $125/founding member package price. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-309-2820. JuliePunishill@gmail.com. JuliePunishill.com. TLC Play Camp for Women: Meditation & Essential Oils – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Learn meditation techniques that will enable you to find your inner peace and relaxation. We will use essential oils to raise our vibratory rates and enhance our experience. $49. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

It is easier to build

strong children than to repair broken men. ~Frederick Douglass

Fairfield County Edition

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Healing Drum Circle – 6-9pm. Perfect way to experience the healing energy of the drum, the heartbeat of Mother Earth. The drum has the ability to shift energy in a dramatic way as it is an integral tool for vibrational healing. Bring drum or rattle if you can. $25. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Bldg #1, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 Advance Reiki (Level 3) Certification – 10am4pm. Prerequisite: Reiki levels 1 & 2 Certification. Receive the Reiki Master Symbols. Delve deeper into the the history of Reiki, Chakras, Auras and much more. $225. Hands and Paws Reiki for All. Bethel. Pam: 203-994-1815 or Mary: 203-994-5308

MONDAY, AUGUST 17 Make Your Own Fermented Condiments – 6:308pm. With Tracy Pardo, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. Learn everything you need to know to make your own fermented condiments, their benefits, and why you should eat more fermented foods. Space is limited Space. $75. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. 203-916-4600. TracyPardo@ShalvaClinic. org. ShalvaClinic.org.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 A Presence Circle – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel & Stacey Sherman. Evening of meditation, sound, frequencies and exploration to experience peace, self-love, compassion and connection. Registration Required. $33. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@ LotusWellnessCtr.com. Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help for Transformation and Healing – 7-9pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Would you like more energy and vitality? Learn simple and profound hands-on energy revitalizing exercises. You will receive practical knowledge and experience you can use anytime and helpful handouts. $25. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

natural awakenings

Questions & Answers About Reiki – 7-9:30pm. With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. 7-8:30pm; talk about Reiki with Q&A for non-Reiki. 8:15-9:30pm: talk and Q&A for Reiki-certified Practitioners to inquire about advanced training. Includes latest info on Western Style Reiki. Mini-Reiki sessions included. $5 or $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 Newtown Yoga Festival – 9am-4pm. Sample different yoga styles and meet amazing local yoga teachers at our yoga buffet. Sacred music, crystal bowl healing and gong bath. Health and wellness vendors. $25. NYA Sports & Fitness, 4 Primrose Ln, Newtown. 203-470-6969. NewtownYogaFestival@ gmail.com. NewtownYogaFestival.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 Charge Up Your Chakras! – 7-9pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Explore your Chakra Energy Centers with this fun class designed to recharge, renew and rejuvenate your body/mind/spirit. Find balance and harmony using meditation, energy healing techniques and much more. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Shamanic Rites of Compassion and Enlightenment Munay-ki Rites 7, 8, 9 – 7-9pm. This class offers the last three out of nine shamanic rites of initiation. Last class of a 3 part series. Pre-requisite: all prior rites. $80. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Bldg #1, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 Awakening Your Inner Healer – 7-9pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Explore Energy Healing, Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu and more. Evening filled with energy healing exercises and the wisdom Beth Leas has garnered from over 20 years in Transformative Healing. $25. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 Reiki Second Degree workshop – 10am-5:30 pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years). Learn Reiki 2nd Degree in the Western style. Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Full Moon Healing Circle: Healing with Lunar, Crystal and Ancestral Energies on the Full Sturgeon Moon – 7:30-9:30pm. Connect with the healing of the Full Sturgeon Moon through the power of lunar energy, crystal energy, the ancestors and the Spirit of the Sturgeon. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Shamanic Drum Circle – 7:30-10:30pm. Join us to connect with Energy, Spirit, and Mother Earth through sacred Shamanic Drumming, Rattling, and Shamanic Healing. All levels welcome, no experience necessary. $20. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail. com. HunterHealingHands.com.

ongoingevents sunday

monday

tuesday

Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11am. For toddlers (1 & 2 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion of self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com.

TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? At TLC Center, we understand the power of networking. Relaxed supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com.

Gentle Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:45am. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for your body. All abilities welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat. $5 donation. Hindu Cultural Center (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HinduCulturalCenter.org/Programs.html. 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. We come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive, community environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-9806272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. First and third Sunday. Family Program introducing kids to meditation, metta (loving-kindness affirmations), yoga, art practice, a discussion of mindfulness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Buddhist ideas that are common to all spiritual paths. Parents can meditate in the main building. Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. 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. Love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Practicing Meditation – 2-4pm. Introduction to analytical meditation based on the teachings of Stages of the Path (Lamrim) and Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life. Sessions include a brief mindfulness meditation, talk, guided meditation on the topic and an interactive discussion. 6-week class. Free, by donation. DNKL, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-664-1574. Info@DNKLDharma.org. DNKLDharma.org/node/22.

Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Stirring the Waters: Women’s Reflective Writing Series – 9:30-11am. With Beth Leas. 3-session series. Using the process of inquiry this series is designed to reawaken your sense of wonder about yourself, your relationships and your life. No prior writing experience is necessary. $125. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@ BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Eckhart Tolle Study Group: A New Earth - Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose – 7-9pm. Take part in this open hearted, supportive group as we dismantle EGO (that anxious, negative, limiting part of your mind) and learn to locate and experience your True Self. Free or by donation. 154 Head of Meadow Rd, Newtown. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@ gmail.com. NewtownLove.org. Guided Meditation at Sabita Holistic Center –7:30-8:30pm. Second Monday. Give yourself the gift of meditation at Sabita Holistic Center. Internationally known Dr. Levy has worked for over the past 35 years in stress reduction, deep relaxation and meditation. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. 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.

Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail.com. DrKathySward.com. Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11:30am. For Preschoolers (3-5 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion for self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@ charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Mommy and Me Yoga: Tots/Toddlers – 1010:45am. Crawling to 3 years. Partner with your little one for animated yoga poses, games, music and breathing exercises that help to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. Bond with your child, while strengthening their growing muscles. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail. com. FamilyTreeYoga.net. Mommy and Me Yoga: Pre-Crawlers – 11:15amnoon. 8 weeks. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep. Bond with your baby and connect with other moms. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Introduction to Herbalism – 6-8:30pm. With Lupo Passero, Herbalist. 6-weeks. Get to know over 20 popular herbal remedies including summer skin care and stress support. Twin Star Herbal Education, New Milford. 203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbal.com.

NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings’ free app has been downloaded by more than 40,000 iPhone users and is now available on the Android platform. To advertise with us, call 203-885-4674. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

ongoingevents tuesday BodySmart – 6:15-7:30pm. Semi-private sessions for 2-4 participants. Complete core/body conditioning exercises and stretching utilizing a 9-foot floor to ceiling X-Pole. $45/class-discount with 6+ classes (pre-reg required). BodySmart, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. Call Lisa for details, additional schedule information and to register: 203-209-7359. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. Location: ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke (Rt 202), New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Angelic Healing Group—7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. Classes offerered Tuesday-Saturday. Kripalu-influenced, classic hatha yoga for all levels and styles. Personal inquiry and cultivating individual experience is emphasized. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TFLWellness.com. Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

Meditation – 7-8pm. Experience bliss, peace, joy and deep healing. Not your traditional silent or guided meditation class. It is meant to transform you, healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. WCSU, Danbury Midtown Campus, Warner Hall, Rm 103S, Danbury. Danbury Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller, intuitive. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. Call: 203-426-9448. SacredGrounds.bz. TrinityProduction.org. Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday – 7-9pm. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Sense what you cannot see and therefore make better choices. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@ yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. 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.

Adopt the pace of nature—her secret is patience. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

thursday Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11am. For Toddlers (1 & 2 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion of self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TransformationForLifeYoga.com. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second Thursday. Come learn about your energy body - every month Come join us to learn and practice a powerful self help tool using tapping on meridian accupressure points. No experience necessary. 203-247-1318. Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Energy Tools Study Group MeetUp – 7-8:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Come learn about your energy body - every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318. Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. Meetup.com/Energy-ToolsStudy-Group. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Practicing Prayers: Seven Limbs & Six Perfections – 7-8:45pm. Class designed especially for beginners and open to everyone. This class will introduce a meditative practice of Buddhist prayers using three of the most common prayers. 6-week class. Free, by donation only. DNKL, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-664-1574. Info@DNKLDharma. org. DNKLDharma.org/node/219. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterPS.org. Pre-Natal Yoga – 7:15-8:30pm. Other times available. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail. com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

friday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TransformationForLifeYoga.com. Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11:30am. For Preschoolers (3-5 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion for self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@ charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. 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. Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262. Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.

saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

Yoga & Pilates – 8:30-10am. Fun class combining yoga and pilates. In this class we play with all the toys - using bands, blocks, balls and light weights for a complete workout. Lengthen and tone and end with

a restorative relaxation. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Community Yoga by Donation – 9-10:15am. Enjoy a 75-minute vinyasa flow yoga practice suitable for all levels with 200RYT Jennifer Cranna. This community class is on a monetary donation basis, so all may reap the benefits of yoga. Bring your mat or use ours. By donation. Zen Do Ju-Jitsu, 80 Park Ln, New Milford. Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. Classes offerered Tuesday-Saturday. Kripalu-influenced, classic hatha yoga for all levels and styles. Personal inquiry and cultivating individual experience is emphasized. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TFLWellness.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 INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN WITH TREATMENT ROOM AVAILABLE for sublet in Stamford. Great parking, easy location for clients from Merritt or I-95. Direct inquiries to Laura at 203-348-8805.

Gentle Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:45am. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. All abilities welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat. $5 donation. Hindu Cultural Center (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail. com. HinduCulturalCenter.org/Programs.html.

TREATMENT ROOM AVAILABLE Beautiful, private, clean room, tranquil setting. Deposit required. $600 per month. Utilities included. Get referrals! Call Max 914-263-3352.

Stand Up Comedy Class – 10am. With Shawn Moninger. 4-week course. Learn to create material that is authentic to your unique personality. Walk away with a seven minute set that you will perform at Unity Center’s Open Mic Night on 9/19. $200 ($100 non-refundable deposit). Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

HOUSE FOR SALE – Enjoy your own private nature retreat! 3BDR Colonial with 1.5 Bath, spacious LR and DR, wood floors throughout, woodburning fireplace, central air. 1 acre property borders a nature preserve with hiking trails; in a private lake community with clubhouse, beach and great canoeing/kayaking. Located in Westchester, NY just minutes from the conveniences of Ridgefield! Needs updating so it’s a steal at $379,000. 914-763-0464.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. 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, Dr. 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. Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:30pm. Second and fourth Saturday. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment, and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net. ReddingMeditation.org. Knitting Group-Purls of Wisdom – 6-8pm. With Diane Bustamante. Make prayer shawls. Shawls will be blessed by the Unity community and delivered to those in need of comfort. Bring yarn and needles/ hook, if you have them. Supplies available for purchase. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityPurlsOfWisdom@ gmail.com. UnityCenterPS.org/PurlsOfWisdom.

FOR SALE

HELP WANTED 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. DISTRIBUTORS WANTED FOR NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS: If you have a passion for health and non-toxic products, we are looking for motivated individuals now! Email Support@35Again.com.

WOMEN WALKING PARTNERS WOMEN WALKING PARTNERS – Connect with the “get outside & walk” movement of women walking partners. Find walking partners. Be a walking partner. Join us. Womenwalking.net, Support@ WomenWalking.net.

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. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

or call: 888-822-0246

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates.

ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

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

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY XTORAYS.COM

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866-XtoRAYS • SuzannePyle@prodigy.net Get peace of mind with safe (no radiation), FDA-approved breast cancer screening. 8 years earlier detection vs. mammography. Certified DITI thermographer. Conveniently located throughout Fairfield.

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 17.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk and Fairfield 203-216-2548 • AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture at the most affordable prices in Fairfield County. 20+ years experience, specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues. See ad, page 79.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non-invasive, FDA registered.

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com

As the hormone experts, we specialize in women’s health, natural hormone balancing, breast cancer prevention and thermography utilizing the highest definition camera in the area with interpretations from MD specialists in the field.

CHIROPRACTIC

COLONICS WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.

CRYSTALS

PETER BRAGLIA, DC

MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

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 County with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 16.

The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished & tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans. See ad, page 9.

449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 MotherEarthCrystals.com

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

RISA SLOVES, DC

EDUCATION HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org

Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 32.

COLONICS

We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 17.

RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203-797-0551 • Ridley.edu

COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

Accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Information Technology and Electrical Systems Technician;day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if eligible), free placement assistance. See ad pg 10.

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August 2015

HOLISTIC DENTIST

EDUCATION WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org

CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 30.

GREEN LIVING

Connecticut Headache and Migraine Relief Center’s (CHMRC) approach to headache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 34.

HYPNOSIS

BIOTOP NATURAL POOLS BY AQUA-SCAPES LLC.

203-743-7665 • AquaScapeBy@sbcglobal.net AquaScapesPool.com Imagine swimming in cool, pure, healthy, “living” water created by plants, bacterias and 30 years of experience. No more red eye, bleached hair, itchy skin and the many negative effects of chlorine. See ad, page 35.

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

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.

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events.

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 • WholeBodyDentistry.com

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, Weight Reduction programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, M.D. Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com

Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold world-wide. See ad, page 2.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad, page 8.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Drs. Randy Schulman, Steve Carr, Narvan Bakhtiari, Carl Gruning and C. Lee Mellinger Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 139 Main St, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 30.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT ALTHEA DEPASCALE

Appts in Westport or by phone 860-677-8750 or 860-559-3695 AltheaDePascale.com AcDePascale@comcast.net I am a highly respected and skilled clairvoyant, intuitive life coach, psychic, medium, as well as past life reader and facilitator. My internationally based clients are from all walks of life, including medical doctors, attorneys, social workers, teachers, nurses, athletes, widely recognized high profile artists and public figures such as actors. See ad, page 13.

KIMBERLY TAYLOR

Crystal Visions, Inc. 1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 • CrystalVisionsCT.com Kimberly is a psychic medium and intuitive. Readings consist of childhood experiences, present personal and professional relationship paths and future outcomes of major life decisions. Kimberly can also be a conduit for lost loved ones. See ad, page 12.

JOINT PAIN DONNA MILANA

914-882-9758 DonnaHealthyLife123@gmail.com HealthyLegs123.com Ache joints? Considering a replacement, try “JUSURU LIQUID BIO CELL” The Best Bone, Joint and Skin Product in the world with 7 Patents. Natural cartilage regeneration and lubrication, liquid. Helps to protect, repair, rebuild & prevent deterioration.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK LAURA CARLSON, LMT

Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC Yo u d e s e r v e t o b e nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance. Relaxing and nourishing massage will encourage positive changes in your mind and body. Individual sessions and massage parties available.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist & Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLMT.com

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 7.

MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 • FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs.

MEDITATION REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION 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.

NATURAL FOOD MARKET THE COMMON BOND MARKET

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC

40 Huntington St, Shelton TheCommonBondMarket.com 203-513-8200

1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 • BigAppleHealth.com

The Common Bond Market is a natural food market that provides The Valley with more healthful alternatives than the usual grocery fare. You’ll also find hot food, supplements, and much more. Find us on Facebook! See ad, page 43.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

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, allnatural 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.

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, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 39.

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, page 23.

Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Therapy, Natural Face Lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include Family Medicine, Women’s Health, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Pain Man-agement, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, M.D., ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING THE CLEAN BEDROOM

79 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-292-9275 • 866-380-5892 TheCleanBedroom.com The Clean Bedroom is an organic and all-natural mattress and bedding resource with seven showrooms, including its new location in Greenwich. Through its showrooms and web site, eco-minded shoppers gain insight to create a healthier sleep environment. See ad, page 5.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

PHYSICAL THERAPY

PSYCHOTHERAPY

PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT

Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton 203-926-6997 • PhysicalTherapySoCT.com

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

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

Specializing in evaluation & treatment of musculoskeletal imbalance & injuries. Results achieved that traditional physical therapy may not. Therapeutic approaches such as manual therapy, cranialsacral, visceral manipulation and vestibular rehab. State of the art facility for strengthening & overall rehabilitation.

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 12.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 • Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

PsychoSpiritual Therapy & Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non-traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.

YUDIT MAROS, LMFT, CHt

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-244-5898 • Center4AuthenticLiving.com Author of Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love. There is hope! Even life-long unhappiness can be helped. State-of-the art psychotherapy for individuals of all ages, couples and families. Trauma resolution, Relationship Clinics, six-week Authenticity Clinics for inner connection.

REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

Ridgefield/Danbury 203-733-4535 • DmGaylord@yahoo.com A Reiki Master since 2001, Deborah has worked with clients from infants to the elderly, specializing in children/teens/ young adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression..

you may hit a star. ~W. Clement Stone

Fairfield County Edition

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

Lori Haggerty • Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com Feeling the negative effects of a high stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 60.

VIRGINIA TRINQUE, USUI REIKI MASTER Danbury 203-733-1330 VirginiasHealthyLiving@gmail.com VirginiasHealthyLiving.com

Virginia is a Reiki Master/Teacher with years of experience healing children and adults. Specializing in physical and spiritual pain relief and “body and soul integration” for easier living in this world. Usui Reiki classes offered for Master level, Levels I and II and Teacher Training. Sessions and classes held in a private, serene setting.

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS AND EDUCATION CENTER JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT – Turning Point Reiki, LLC 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

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.

DEBORAH GAYLORD, RMT, IARP

Aim for the moon. If you miss,

REIKI

natural awakenings

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 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 intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 67.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

WELLNESS CENTER iFLOAT

CORE RELATIONS

Karin Knoblich, CCEP 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich 1239 Broadway, Ste 1003A, New York, NY Core-Relations.com • 917-548-8689 Transform negativity into positive energy. Release stress, anxiety and depression through the use of breath, movement and touch. Reclaim your authentic self by allowing joy to guide and embody the powerful, loving being you are. Individual and couples sessions, workshops and groups.

ORGANIC REMEMBRANCE

Slyms Bazile 203-479-0417 • BSlyms@gmail.com Slyms Bazile is a certified Reiki Practitioner and certified Medicinal Aromatherapist. She created Organic Remembrance Therapy, a fusion of healing modalities gathered in remembrance of our organic roots. Call now for a free consultation.

HEART’S DESIRE METHOD Shiloh@TheHDMethod.com TheHDMethod.com

The Heart’s Desire Method – 7 Steps to making your dreams come true. Bring highdefinition focus on what you want in all areas – work, family, relationships and money. By energizing the healing power of the authentic self, you will lead a happier, more peaceful and fulfilling life.

WEIGHT LOSS NUWEIGH NUTRITION & WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES, LLC/ IDEAL PROTEIN CLINIC 90 Grove St, Ste #03, Ridgefield 203-403-4187 Ingrid@NuWeighWellness.com NuWeighWellness.com

The Ideal Protein Protocol is a medically derived weight loss method refined over 20 years. The fundamental philosophy is to increase overall well being through sensible weight loss and empower clients through coaching to make sustainable, smarter lifestyle choices after they have lost excess weight.

163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 • iFloatSpa.net Experience this superior form of body/mind relaxation as you float effortlessly in warm water with high concentrations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain and more. See ad, page 67.

KURE SPA

430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 • Kure-Spa.com Kure Spa rovides a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, yoga, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, back cover.

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 antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

TRANSFORMATION FOR LIFE

Jill Myruski, LMT 6 Walnut St, Danbury • 203-617-8228 TFLWellness.com A beautiful studio in a convenient Danbury location. Offering daily yoga classes, therapeutic massage and essential oil body and face treatments. Owner Jill Myruski has over 18 years experience in therapeutic massage and healing. Free classes on essential oil applications for everyday use. Check website for details. See ad, page 13.

Teach clients how to defy age and illness through medical yoga. Advertise in Natural Awakenings’

September Yoga Issue

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2015

COSMIC RHYTHMS by Alethea Hunt

displayadvertiserindex Beth Leas

Acu-Thin/Westport Chiropractic 23

Lipo-Light/Westport Chiropractic

Advanced Healing Cream

Living Organized

Alina’s Patisserie

Mother Earth Gallery

Aqua-Scapes LLC

Natural Awakenings Franchise Sales

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market

Nature’s Way Natural Foods

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard

aturn resumes direct motion on August 2, signaling an ideal moment to “just say no” to situations or relationships that have required heavy investment and yielded minimal joy. Saturn’s direct movement can be an indicator it’s time to close the door on something that hasn’t yield an adequate return for your efforts. This allows you to conserve and focus your energies toward the things you do find pleasure and joy in. Jupiter moves into Virgo for a year on August 11 – a potential boon for health matters. Pause and take a big-picture look at your wellness routine. Look at the mundane details of diet and exercise to whether or not certain nutritional supplements might be beneficial. Also consider a better work-rest balance and your sleep quality and quantity. See how your overall quality of life can be improved by cultivating a more spiritual connection to the world to look for the blessings in ordinary, everyday things you might otherwise take for granted. Make gratitude a routine practice. In a related sense, Jupiter in Virgo can represent “faith healing” from the standpoint that hope is a powerful thing. What you believe about the state of your health can have a profound effect upon well-being now, so adopt a positive attitude toward illness and recovery. Never lose the belief that you can be healthy and focus on little things that will result in improvement – start small. Most importantly, be sure you’re surrounding yourself with healthcare professionals who share this positive point of view. If not, this could be a good time to think about making a switch to someone who might be a better advocate for you on your journey to wellness. A Leo New Moon on August 14 is excellent for some rest and relaxation, whether it is a vacation or just some summer fun. This is also great energy for turning creative projects into a forprofit medium; make sure to concentrate on the promoting angle of things like social media and e-commerce if you’re trying to capitalize off your creativity in some way. This lunation’s contact to Uranus denotes social energy that favors networking so get connected and make an effort to meet new people and collaborate. Lastly, if you’re single and looking to date, there is a possibility of an unexpected union forming at this time due to Venus’ close proximity to this moon. Make sure you’re socializing and actively trying to connect to others through vehicles like meetups, online dating or even being set up by friends. Lastly, a Pisces Full Moon on August 29 is great for several things, the first being intuitive development. Secondly, this lunation can be useful for treating addictions of all kinds. With Jupiter and Neptune approaching opposition next month, take a more analytical look at well-intentioned vehicles for wellness that may actually do more harm than good. This can be tricky to navigate because of the subtlety factor involved. For example, over-exercising or an over-emphasis upon eating only the “good” or “right” foods can make you feel unreasonably guilty if there is a slipup somewhere. If something “healthy” is taken to excess (and that’s what Jupiter tends to do), this can actually manifest in an UNhealthy fashion. Remember, it is always about balance.

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 32

A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-9176312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny. com. 66 Fairfield County Edition natural awakenings

Mimi Lagana

Judith Barr

Basil Yoga

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Blues, Views and BBQ

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental

The Center for Natural Health

Chamomille Natural Foods

Olivette 43 Robin Ordan, LMT

Robin Ordan, LCSW

Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc

Palmwich 44 Pangaea Massage

Patricia’s Presents

Paul’s Custom Pet Food

52 55

The Clean Bedroom

The Cleanest Touch

The Common Bond Market

Personal Wellness Center/ Sage Osa

Crystal Visions

Julie Punishill

Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute

Salon Aponte

Detoxified Iodine

Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa 9

DoTerra/Lori Haggerty

SAVOR Healthy Organic

CT Headache & Migraine Center 34 CWPN Harvest Gathering Althea DePascale

Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine

Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND

Victoria Shaw, PhD

Embody the Sacred

Eyecare Associates

Soul Centered Healing/ Danielle Joffe Hampton

Final Journey LLC

Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli

Five Star Printing

Soul Fulfillment/Carrie Picardi

Sticks & Stones Farm

The Gallery of Dreams

Debra Gibson, ND

Thrive Meditation

The Graduate Institute

Topical Pain Relief

Hands & Paws Reiki for All

Total Life Care Center

Healthy Choice Mattress

Touch of Sedona

Hedge Trimming by Thomas

Transformation for Life

True Health Family Chiropractic

Housatonic Natural Wellness Fair

Twin Star Herbals/Lupo Passero

Housatonic Valley Waldorf School

Hunter Healing Hands

Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 24

Ifloat

University of Bridgeport Clinics 36

The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 46

Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND

Izzi B’s

Westbrook Nature School

Kindred Spirits

Westport Farmers Market

Kure Spa

Whole Foods

Yoga Culture

Yoga for Everybody

The Last Resort

Total Life Care Center Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrated health care practitioners. TLC Center is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health center—with more than 90 independent members —and was founded by Beth Prins Leas in 1997 on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering.

TLC Center 152 East Ave Norwalk, CT 203-856-9566 TLCcenter.com

Beth has created a vibrant holistic health and resource center and growing community of people who are committed to living consciously and to offering healthy lifestyle options in the form of private sessions, classes, workshops and special events. Please visit our website and sign up for our newsletter to learn more about how TLC Center can support you on your journey to living well.

Discover How Divorce Can Actually Be An Opportunity For Tremendous Personal Growth

Private Sessions • Support Groups • Workshops Meditation Coaching • Meditation Groups In person, by phone, or Skype | Norwalk & New Canaan locations

Julie Punishill Certiﬁed Life Coach, Intuitive

203-309-2820

www.juliepunishill.com juliepunishill@gmail.com

Find the ground, and your connection to your true self, your soul.

SOUL CENTEREDHEALING INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT

♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

Fairfield County’s #1 Center

For Stress Reduction and Mind Education

DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy   Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue.   Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.

soulcentered@mac.com Float in warm water with a high concentration of Epsom salt with no light or sound. Amplify slow brain waves, talk to certified float staff, reduce stress, pain, & more.

413-429-1278

soul-centered-healing.com

Balance Your Body. Find Peace of Mind. Reconnect to Spirit. Raise your Energetic Frequency to Stimulate Health & Healing Reduce Stress • Induce Relaxation • Relieve Chronic & Acute Pain Speed Wound Healing • Boost Immune Function INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT Improve Memory & Concentration • Ease Anxiety & Depression ♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress Reiki • Jin Shin Jyutsu • Tarot

SOUL CENTEREDHEALING ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

Schedule your appointments: (203)-226-7378 • ifloatspa.net 163 Main St.,Westport, CT

203-856-9566

DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. www.bethleas.com

Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy   Private SessionsAcupuncture • Workshops&•Traditional Special Events • InMedicine person ortobyaddress phone •the Norwalk & Ridgefield Locations Medicine, Chinese root cause of your issue.   Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.

soulcentered@mac.com

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