Natural Awakenings Fairfield County September 2016

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Dance for Mind, Body and Spirit

Yoga & Music

P L A N E T

FREE

Special Edition:

Healing

Movement

& Music

A Transcendent Duo

Sound Medicine

Nourishing, Energizing, Healing

Plant-Based Lunchbox

Get a Healthier Midday Boost

September 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Healthcare Alternatives Family Based Chiropractic Care

Specializing In Infants, Children, and Pre and Postnatal Women

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

Pre and Postnatal Women

Back, Pelvic, Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain • Headaches Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Improve spinal and pelvic alignment to help babies in the breech or occiput posterior "sunny side up" presentations • Reduce The Incidence of C-Section

Children

Ear Infections • Asthma & Allergies • Scoliosis • Colic Reflux • ADHD • Sports Injuries • Torticollis Lactation Issues / Tongue-Tie Complications

Dr. Risa M. Sloves

Dr. Sloves has 25 years of experience and is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care.

21 INSIDE THE CHANT

WITH KRISHNA DAS Kirtan Music Transports Listeners to a Deeper Place

by Robin Fillmore

22 MUSIC AS MEDICINE

Music Soothes, Energizes and Heals Us

by Kathleen Barnes

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CONSCIOUS DANCE

Call 203-838-1555

Creative Movement Connects Body, Mind and Spirit

Associates in Family Chiropractic 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.ctChiropractic.com

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by Gail Condrick

34 THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF YOGA AND MUSIC Powerful Separately,

A Transcendent Duo

by Gloria Owens

37 RELAX AND UNWIND

34

Restorative Yoga Poses Foster Healing

by Meredith Montgomery

50 MUSIC TO THEIR EARS?

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

Companion Animals Soothed

by Different Sounds

by Nicole Miale

54 FREQUENT

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Fairfield County Edition

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57 VEGAN LUNCHBOX Plant-Based Choices Provide Midday Boost

by Judith Fertig

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7 newsbriefs 17 healthbriefs 20 globalbriefs 21 wisewords 24 therapyspotlight 29 productmarketplace 32 masteringyoga 38 practitionerprofiles 46 naturallyhealthypet 50 communityspotlight 5 1 petresourceguide 56 inspiredtable 57 consciouseating 60 calendar 64 classifieds 65 resourceguide 70 displayadindex

The Center for Natural Medicine

Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine • Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia

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• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Eczema • Allergies • Asthma • Food Sensitivities

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Gwen Gangi, JoJo Keane, Mary Oquendo, Gloria Owens, Jennifer Zulli Sales & Marketing Alix Bacher Nicole Miale 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 © 2016 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.

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his month’s topics resonate powerfully with me personally; at different times of my life, dance, yoga and music have featured prominently in my healing journey and experience of self. Movement and music are healing techniques accessible to everyone and “practice-able” at a moment’s notice. This makes them uniquely suited to be used and appreciated by each individual during turbulent and stressfilled times.

Do you remember the last time you sang out loud without any inhibitions? Perhaps it wasn’t a song but rather just vocalization without words—a scream of joy, frustration or rage. Or maybe, as frequently happens in my house, a snow dog-howling session.

Nicole Miale As ear-splitting and discordant as it often is, my week is not complete without a few occasions when I’ve thrown back my head and howled with a couple very civilized dogs who still retain their instinctive desire to make the call of the wild as loudly as possible. I always feel better afterward, even if I wasn’t consciously aware I “needed” it beforehand. Make some noise; it’s a great way to let out emotion you may not have been aware of holding.

When did you last dance? Although wiggling in your seat in the car while a good song plays does count, when did you last dance with abandon, arms swinging, head shaking, torso jerking and sweating? If you’ve never done it, I highly recommend it. If you feel embarrassed by the very thought, turn off the lights in your own living room so even you can’t see what you’re doing. Close your eyes. Let the rhythm of the music, drums, instruments or voice carry you and your body away from conscious awareness and to a deeper sense of alignment and self-awareness.

Trust me on this one; it really works and you don’t have to be able to dance in the conventional sense.

In that same vein, are you one of the many who would “like to try yoga” but don’t feel very flexible or in good enough shape in order to practice? Take it from me; you can do it. You won’t look like the gorgeous ladies on our cover this month but that’s perfectly OK. When I started practicing yoga, I was 70 pounds overweight and could barely do anything except the simplest stretch. I learned quickly, however, that those barely-there stretches mattered very much to my body and to my overall well-being. The more I did, the more I could do. After a while people were saying, “You’re in great shape; what do you do?” My answer: “I walk/hike with the dog and do yoga.” Try it; see if it works for you.

September is yoga month across the nation; in this issue, we highlight the practice and some of the fantastic practitioners in our area.

Here’s my prescription for this September: sing, dance and practice yoga (whatever form you can access). In the process, you’ll make yourself and the world the better for it!

With love and light,

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.

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Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 70.

Making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings

newsbriefs newsbriefs Study A Course Miracles 7eFit Spa Open in House in in Ridgefield Stamford

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Course in Miracles (ACIM) studyhas tamford group, offered only once a year, will a new option begin on September 1 tofor study the yearthose seeking long Daily Lessons (the Workbook) to look andof feel ACIM, considered by many be aduring lifetheirtobest altering document. ™ The first four 7:30the holiday sea9pm meetings will take place on Septemson and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridge Road, ber 1, 16services and 29, and and non-invasive October 13. techoffering a variety of aesthetic Deanne Mincer niques During the course of theopen year’s stud-is to support mind and body wellness. An house ies, you will go through the process of learning forgiveness scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm. and acceptance, choosing to love underwill all conditions, The regular service offerings—which be availableand as recognizing thatour lifetechnology and love are eternal. The group is comRelax while brief demonstration sessions during the open house—include prised ofdoes those new to ACIM as well as individuals who have . work anti-aging andthe oxygen facials with oxygen therapy, Torc Plus biolong studied it.

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The group will be guided by Deanne Mincer, who has Infrared Sauna • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen therapy) and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifiextensively studied ACIM, ancient yoga texts and the mystiMyolift • Torc Body Waxing cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster personal weight loss program. cal writings of Rumi.

Each will read the lessons Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • participant Reiki The Torc Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known to be on their own, then meet with the group other week for Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facialstoning, every effective for muscle tightening, cellulite reduction discussion for eight-week intervals.

The cost for each fourand inchTeeth loss.Whitening session phase is $80. Refreshments are served during the Save Tracey Now with Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident groupFounder meeting.

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Communication Skills Workshop Shamanic Healing Retreat in in Westport Redding

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new and group is forming in Westport oin shamanic practitioners to improve teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica communication and relationship skills. The workshop will Hunter for a day of shamanic healing be offered on for gratitude, transformation, abun-Mondays for six weeks, September 12. Two time slots dance, discovery andstarting enlightenment. are available: This all-day healing retreat is open11am-12:30pm or 5:307pm.

Thewish purpose of the course is to to anyone and all levels who help participants to learn more about shamanism and improve their communicationand skills so they can have better, shamanic healing practices techmore connected niques that can be incorporated into relationships.

Deana Paqua Paula Levy daily life for transformation and posiThese are the topics for each sixatweeks: tive changes.

The event will of bethe held •the Week 1: Learning how to have a positive, achievable goal sanctuary at The Redding Center when communicating with a partner for Meditation on November 14 from • Week 2: Understanding how to make non-verbal communi10am to 5pm. cation consistent with the message of verbal communication A variety of techniques and teach• Week 3: Studying research-based practical ways to diaings will be incorporated throughout logue with a partner the day, including shamanic journey • Week 4: Talking about ways to be a better listener so partwork, shamanic ceremonies, crystal ners will be more willing to communicate healing, various spirit medicine healing • Week 5: Reviewing other methods to get a message across teachings and shamanic techniques for Jessica Hunter besides a constructive dialogue manifestation •clearing Week 6:and Discussing ways practices. to manage aggressive communiPaqua so and Hunter a unique and informative combinacation that it willbring not escalate tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. specializes in Andean andaSouth American shaPaulaPaqua Levy is the workshop facilitator, licensed marriage manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American and family therapist and certified Imago therapist and mediashamanic traditions. they provide educational tor with more than 18Together, years of experience helping people and inspirational gatherings encompass a variety improve their shamanic relationships.

She hasthat offices in Westport and of teachings and a global connection of a variety of ShaRidgefield. manic Healing practices.

For more information, visit PaulaLevyCT.com, email For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net and Paula@PaulaLevyCT.com or call 203-803-9387. Location: 3HunterHealingHands.com.

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he Institute for Holistic Studies at Western Connecticut State University’s fall calendar includes Sahaja Yoga meditation classes the second Tuesday of each month starting September 13 at 7pm. The Wellness Wednesday Workshops will be offered every two weeks, starting September 14 at 12:30pm.

On September 7, Meditation: Multicultural Perspectives will take place from 5-10pm at the Campus Center Ballroom, Westside campus. The event will be presented in partnership with the Center for Compassion, Creativity, and Innovation, and WCSU Office of Diversity and Equity. A two-part Holistic and Integrative Health Initiatives Panel event, presented in collaboration with the Center for Entrepreneurship, Research, Innovation, and Creativity, will be held on September 28 from 6-8pm and October 4 from 7-9pm.

In addition, the Institute for Holistic Health Studies is sponsoring several upcoming programs presented by local practitioners and educators.

• Shamanic Practitioner Certification: Presented by Deana Paqua, MA, LMT, of Embody the Sacred, the program continues monthly from September 17, 2016, through October 21, 2017.

• Yoga Teacher Certification: Presented by Lara Ward, RYT, LMT, of Lotus Gardens Yoga, the weekly program is offered October 7, 2016, through April 21, 2017.

• Hand and Foot Reflexology: Lara Ward, RYT, LMT, of Lotus Gardens Yoga, and Kelly Garry, certified reflexologist, of Clary Sage are presenting the two-weekend course on September 24-25 and November 12-13.

For more information or class locations, visit WCSU.edu/IHHS/Events.asp.

Aerial Arts Showcase Grand Opening of Ayurvedic Tickets on Sale and Naturopathic Clinic

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ertical Addiction’s annual Aerial Arts Showcase will take place on September 17 with two shows featuring over 25 aerialists and a guest performer.

The 4pm show will showcase beginner and intermediate level dancers while the 8pm show will host advanced level dancers. The showcase will take place at the Fairfield Theatre Company, a professional performance theater with full staging, lighting and audio.

Local vendors will join the event and silent auction items will be available to bid on. The event is also teaming up with The Pink Agenda, a charity supporting breast cancer awareness. Stamfordbased Vertical Addiction is an aerial arts studio that focuses on pole fitness, aerial hoop, aerial hammock, flexibility, chair dance and more, with classes ranging from beginner to advanced for students of all levels and ages.

Tickets are available at tinyurl.com/AerialArts1 and tinyurl.com/AerialArts2. For more information on Vertical Addiction, visit VerticalAddictionCT.com. Event location: Fairfield Theatre Company, 70 Sanford St, Fairfield.

or the past few months, Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik’s Ayurveda and Naturopathic Clinic has occupied a small space in a rustic building in Yellow Monkey Village, Cross River. This month the clinic is expanding and moving into a larger building across the center lawn, and Kaushik will host a grand opening celebration from 11am to 3pm, September 10.

The new center will house an Ayurvedic and naturopathic clinic and shop, Ayur Bazaar, where medical consultations and treatments, as well as Ayurvedic supplements, herbs, teas, oils and other articles, will be available. The center will offer Ayurvedic detoxification Somesh N. Kaushik therapies such as panchakarma, rejuvenation and antiaging therapies.

The September 10 open house will include a tour of the clinic and shop, a demonstration of Ayurvedic diagnosis techniques and a buffet sampling of Ayurvedic healing foods. The event will culminate with raffles for a 20 percent discount on a first treatment and a gift basket of Ayurvedic teas and oils. Kaushik, who also has offices in New York City and White Plains, New York, will be on hand to meet visitors and discuss the Ayurvedic approach to health and healing.

One of the most experienced Ayurvedic physicians in North America, Kaushik is a recipient of the Dhanwantri Award, his profession’s highest honor. He travels extensively giving lectures on Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old medical system promoting the balance of body, mind and spirit. With naturopathy, Kaushik merges modern, science-based principles with this ancient system to create a holistic path to wellness. He holds degrees in Ayurvedic and naturopathic medicine and a master’s degree in public health and administration, and has more than 30 years’ experience in various healing modalities. He specializes in treating chronic conditions, finding and eliminating the root cause while treating the symptoms. Diet, yoga and lifestyle changes are important parts of his treatment plan.

For information and appointments, visit DrKaushik.com, email DrKaushik@ DrKaushik.com or call 646-670-6725. Location: Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Clinic, 6 Yellow Monkey Village, 792 Rte. 35, Cross River, NY.

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newsbriefs Acupuncture: Myth and Reality Workshop at Kure Spa

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n September 19 from 6:30-7:30pm, James Fitzpatrick, LAc, Kure Spa’s resident acupuncturist and a former clinic director at the University of Bridgeport Acupuncture Institute, will discuss the history, theory and practice of acupuncture. A Q&A session will follow after the presentation.

This workshop is free and open to the public.

While acupuncture is classified as a form of alternative medicine in the West, acupuncture is considered a normative science and medicine in Asia. Commonly used for pain relief in the U.S., it can also used to treat a wide range of conditions, including fibromyalgia, infertility, arthritis and cancer.

For more information, visit Kure-Spa.com or call 203-857-1500. Location: Kure Spa, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. See ad, page 3.

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New Holistic Health Center Opens in Newtown

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ealing White Light LLC is a newly opened massage therapy and holistic health center in Newtown. Joy Carbino, a licensed massage therapist, is bringing together—under one roof—Reiki, massage, pilates, qigong, shamanism, reflexology, Tibetan energy healing, yoga and herbalism practitioners.

A free class, Introduction to Essential Oils, is being offered on Joy Carbino September 8 from 7-8pm at Healing White Light, LLC in Newtown. Amanda Cizek, a doTERRA wellness advocate, will be talking about what essential oils are, their benefits, and how they can be used as part of your daily health and wellness routine.

Healing White Light will also host a Meet & Greet health and wellness event with giveaways on October 1 from 9am-1pm.

Carbino, a graduate of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy and an American Massage Therapy Association member, is an Usui Reiki master/teacher and a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

For more information, call 203-470-1226 or email JoyOfHolisticHealth@gmail.com. Location: Healing White Light, LLC, 83 S Main St, Newtown.

Health Wellness and Sports Event Returns to Stamford

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he Stamford Health, Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2016, presented by WABC-TV, will return for the fifth consecutive year to Chelsea Piers Connecticut on October 15 (10am-5pm) and October 16 (11am-4pm). The event will feature information about the new Stamford Hospital—which opens at the end of September—plus the latest information, products, services and demos from more than 95 exhibitors. Activities will include blood pressure screenings, hand hygiene tips, chronic disease risk assessments, children’s activities and special guests. Admission and parking are free.

Meet and greet dance fitness sensation Billy Blanks Jr. of Dance It Out at the Shark Tank Health Zone, featuring As Seen on Shark Tank businesses with health, wellness and sports products. He will conduct his dance fitness class at no charge on Saturday from 1 to 2pm and Sunday from noon to 1pm at the Chelsea Piers CT Athletic Club. Call 203-5313047 to reserve a spot. Taste healthy foods from local restaurants and learn from special chef presentations at the Healthy Restaurant Sampling Zone.

All visitors will receive a Passport for Life to record their health screening results. Those who visit 40 exhibits will receive a complimentary day pass to Chelsea Piers Connecticut. Hourly raffles will be held for healthy prizes; raffle tickets are $5 or a free ticket for those bringing nonperishable food. As in past years, a silent auction will benefit The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County.

Sponsors include Stamford Health; WABC-TV; Grade A ShopRite; EBMAS CT Martial Arts; Shaklee: Debbie Miron, Independent Distributor; Healthcare News; News 12 CT; Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media; Star 99.9, 95.9 Fox; The Advocate/Hearst Media Services; Natural Awakenings Magazine and Fairfield Parent Magazine. This event is produced

by TMK Sports & Entertainment, a Greenwich-based event marketing company.

If you’re afraid of the dark, remember... not only your wounds, but also your strengths and gifts are found in the dark.

Contact Judith to explore scheduling a consultation: 203-775-5006 or JudithBarr@PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com To learn more, please visit www.judithbarr.com

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For further information, visit HWS-Expos.com and follow on Twitter @HWS_Expos, Instagram @HWS_Expos and Facebook.com/HWS.Expos. Location: Chelsea Piers Connecticut, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 3.

Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. ~Plato eNaturalAwakenings.com

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newsbriefs

The Art of Seeing in Photography Classes

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Personal Empowerment at Lifeline Hygienics ifeline Hygienics in Rye, New York, has been serving clients in the tristate area since January 1993. While colonics is its core business, its mission goes much further, says owner Tovah Nahman. The ultimate goal is empowering clients by teaching them about nutrition, as well as strengthening their mind-body-spirit connection.

“Of course diet plays a big part in colon health, but having our minds Tovah Nahman aligned with our bodies is paramount to having a good colonic,” Nahman says. “To me, colonics are all about releasing or letting go. Releasing on a physical, emotional and spiritual level makes a colonic so much more productive. Some people don’t know how to let go; they have the life-long habit of holding on to things that don’t serve them. I have been guiding people to let go of their emotional, mental and spiritual blockages, as well as their physical ones.”

Nahman also teaches personal empowerment by encouraging clients to take control of various situations or thoughts that plague them. “Empowerment is letting go and taking charge of yourself and whatever situation you are in,” she says. “Being able to let go of what holds you back—physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually—gives you a sense of freedom and inner peace. And who doesn’t want that?”

idgefield’s Basil Yoga will host the Zen & The Art of Seeing: Photography as Meditation workshop on September 10 from 1-6pm. The class will focus on learning to use your camera to expand your relationship with nature. Smartphone cameras and point-and-shoot cameras are acceptable for this class. Pre-registration is required for the $50 event, given by Elisabeth J. Levy, a professional photographer and mindfulness instructor based in Bethel.

This special one-day workshop is part of a three-session course offered at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury. Zen & The Art of Seeing, Part I: A Kind & Gentle Introduction to Creative Photography will be held September 24 and October 1 from 1:30-4:30pm. This two-session workshop provides an opportunity for those who have been wanting to make the leap out of “auto” mode on their camera and take the next step with their photography. You will be guided into the world of aperture, shutter speed and the basics of composition and design.

The second part, Photography As Meditation, will take place on October 15 from 11am-4pm. Building upon themes introduced in Part I, this workshop explores the use of a camera as a meditative tool. Through theory, guided meditation and field exercises, participants will learn to enhance mindfulness while enhancing images at the same time.

Pre-registration is required. The cost is $45 for Part I or Part II, or $80 for the series if registered by September 17 ($90 afterward).

For more information, visit LifelineHygienics.com or call 914-921-LIFE (5433). Location: Lifeline Hygienics, 150 Theodore Fremd Ave, Ste B15, Rye, NY. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 65.

For more information about the classes, email Elisabeth@ejLphoto.com. Basil Yoga location: 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury location: 24 Clapboard Ridge Rd, Danbury.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

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Be Part of a Circle of Caring

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re you a caregiver for someone? Do you feel overwhelmed at times and need someone to talk to? Are you looking for a convenient way to connect?

The Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (RVNA) will hold its first Circle of Caring group meeting on September 1 from 1:30-2:30pm. Meetings will be facilitated by Barbara L. Newland, RVNA’s director of community health and wellness. The meetings will then be held the first Thursday of each month at RVNA Center for Exceptional Care. This is free and open to the public.

Forza 5

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To register, call 203-438-5555. For more information on the association, visit RidgefieldVNA.org. Location: 27 Governor St, Ridgefield.

Stamford Chiropractors Launch a New Product for Home Use

A

pair of local chiropractors are betting their PurePosture product will be a hit as they launch it on The Grommet (TheGrommet.com), an online “shark tank” that has launched brands such as Fitbit, SodaStream, and Alex and Ani. The patented home orthopedic device—which helps alleviate back pain and correct posture—was invented by practicing chiropractors Beverley Marr and Chris Sova after Sova could not find a home product to provide relief for the constant pain between his shoulder blades.

“We looked for something that would help in that area and there was nothing. That’s when I knew I would have to make something I could lay on that would stretch specific ligaments, simulating a chiropractic adjustment,” says Sova.

The result is a custom-sized device built in Norwalk that, when laid on, aligns the spine using one’s own body weight and gravity. “We have been using PurePosture on our patients since 2012 with great results,” said co-founder Marr. “Patients come to the doctor’s office for pain relief. Poor posture is responsible for much of neck and back pain…We live in a ‘sit-down’ world, where we spend too much of our day hunched over a keyboard.

Continuous slouching, especially while sitting, puts too much pressure on the spine and compromises internal organs, leading to pain, poor posture, and a host of other health issues.”

PurePosture was chosen as an innovative new product because of its one-of-a-kind nature, the fact that it is made in the U.S. in Norwalk and its hand-crafted, customized finishing process. “PurePosture will work for you because it’s designed for you,” said Marr, “We custom size each board to suit the individual. People get a customized chiropractic experience, in the convenience of their own home, at a fraction of the cost of visiting an actual chiropractor.”

For more information, visit PurePosture.net. PurePosture launched August 15 on TheGrommet.com. For more information on Stamford Healthcare Associates LLC, visit StamfordHC. com or call 203-569-0067. Locations: 270 Monroe Tpke, Monroe, and 66 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford.

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September 2016

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14

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

newsbriefs Grand Opening for Woodbury Sanctuaries

S

alt of the Earth Healing Sanctuary and Inspirit Healing Studio are joining forces to create a welcoming place for people to heal, learn and grow at a historic location on Main Street in Woodbury. The grand opening is the weekend of September 9-11. Members of the public are welcome to visit and meet the many practitioners, experience demos, and soak in the healing energy of the space.

Salt of the Earth Healing Sanctuary, founded by Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa owner Sue Martovich, provides a feast for the senses, from the healing serenity of meditation and journey dance/movement classes, to facials from Celebrated Face aesthetician Ali Chellis, massages, sound healing and crystal light therapy, to a retail area packed with arts, music, photography, handmade jewelry, salt lamps and more.

The centerpiece of the sanctuary is Athena Hall, an expansive space that hosts yoga, meditation, lectures, literary and interactive programs and more. The community-building space is named for the Greek goddess of reason, intelligence, the arts and literature—who was also gifted with great spiritual and physical beauty— Athena Hall is intended to be a community-building space for sharing of all kinds of wisdom and experience.

Inspirit Healing Studios provides gifts and talents shared by a variety of spiritually-based healers. The tribe is led by local spiritual medium, healer and author Jeanne Street and offers many healing workshops and modalities for those seeking healing and balance. These will include Inspirit yoga and meditation for children and adults, a spiritual herbal class, intuitive art and dreamcatcher classes, medicinal food classes and more.

The sanctuaries’ many experienced practitioners will be available at various points during the opening weekend.

These gifted experts include, (but are not limited to): • Ali Chellis of Celebrated Face, an aesthetician and former trainer at the original Golden Door Resort in California • Meditation teacher and sound healer Cynthia Quintanal, known to many in the area for the sound healing project • Crystal Cymbology with her husband Rick, both music/ sound therapy directors at the Sanctuary • Paulo Fernandes, owner of New Life Retreats, an IIN-certified health coach, specialist in nutritional microscopy and a certified pH Miracle Center coach • Licensed massage therapist and aesthetician Kelly Bravo • Byron Eddy, who offers the Dellagrotte Core Movement Integration method—which synthesizes Feldenkrais, myofascial work and yoga/martial arts study—and holds sound healing events using the didgeridoo For more information, visit the Facebook pages for Salt of the Earth Healing Sanctuary and Inspirit Studios. Location: 346 Main St, Woodbury. See ad, page 10.

onthecover

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Chin Twins Nigel Barker – Photographer Cristen and Kimberly Chin, known as @ChinTwins, of Chinese and Irish descent, started modeling at a young age working for magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Allure and Elle, as well as fashion houses such as Yohji Yamamoto, Kenzo, Gaultier, Armani, Valentino and Gucci.

As youngsters, both shared a love for yoga and dance, which gave them the grace and poise that was instrumental to their success in the fashion industry. Both certified RYT-200 yoga instructors in their 40s now, these mothers, wives and sisters are in the best shape of their lives.

The creation of their joint Instagram account in 2014 has grown through a worldwide community of followers that tune in to the ChinTwins for inspirational messages for mind, body and soul.

Now living more than a 1,000 miles apart—Kimmy in coastal Alabama and Crissy in New York—their lives remain intertwined as they emulate each other and continue to share their stories, motivating and helping like-minded people to think and move outside the box.

The twins were photographed

by Cristen’s husband, Nigel Barker, a noted fashion photographer, author, filmmaker and former model himself.

He is best known as a photographer and judge on the reality show America’s Next Top Model, and is currently the host of another show, The Face.

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September 2016

15

healthbriefs

Text Neck: Is Your Head on Correctly?

by Risa Sloves

W

ill younger generations these days suffer more from early onset degenerative arthritis in their necks as a result of their frequent use of laptops, cell phones, iPads, Kindles, Gameboys and other mobile devices? Or is this prediction already a current reality? The term “text neck” is now being used as even young children are suffering from conditions related to repetitive stress in their necks due to using these devices for hours every day. Add this to the incorrect wearing of backpacks, which are usually worn slung over one shoulder or hanging down too low, and we are creating a perfect storm for children. The undue stress placed upon their spines and nervous systems will affect their structure, function and physiology.

The importance of good posture does more than just impress our mothers. The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae and, when aligned and functioning properly, it is designed to resist the heaviest of loads. With good posture, our ears should be aligned with our shoulders, which should be retracted.

When we look at the spine from the side, the neck should have a normal curvature like the letter “C” with the convexity toward the front of the neck. With “text neck”, the normal neck curvature is lost and may be straight or even reversed; this then can cause symptoms over time, including neck or shoulder pain, headaches, and premature disc degeneration and arthritis. Perhaps more alarming is the fact that abnormal spinal health and posture leads to an imbalance in hormones

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Minimizing the Damage When possible, minimize the use of technology by setting time limits and taking breaks. Sit up straight and avoid leaning forward with the head and neck to maintain proper posture when using technology. When sitting, place a pillow or even a backpack on the lap to rest arms and bring the device closer to eye level to reduce neck flexion.

Other tips include doing regular spinal stretching and exercise to avoid tight muscles and stiff joints. Also make technology work by using talk-to-text functions when possible.

Risa Sloves, DC, DICCP, has been practicing for 27 years.

She is one of nine chiropractic physicians in Connecticut with a board certification in pediatric and maternity. She practices with her husband, Dr. Mark Joachim, at their office Associates In Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care in Norwalk. She can be reached at 203-838-1555. See ad, page 4.

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

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Offices in Newtown & Wilton, CT

www.robinordanlmt.com 16

and even reduced lung expansion and digestion.

Research conducted by Dr. Kenneth Hasraj, chief of spine surgery at New York Spine Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, was published in 2014 in the journal Surgical Technology International showing that repetitive poor posture of the head and neck caused low testosterone, reduced serotonin and increased cortisol levels. Stress on the spine from looking down at a cell phone or other device has devastating shortand long-term health effects. The average head weighs 10-12 lbs. The study evaluated the effects of this forward head and neck flexion when using cell phones. Hasraj found that when the head was flexed forward at 60 degrees to look at a mobile device, the effective weight of the head increased to 60 lbs.

“For a teenager with their head down two to four hours daily, that’s up to 300,000 pounds of stress over 5,000 hours during high school,” explains Hasraj.

Beyond spinal and muscle injuries, improper posture influences all aspects of human health through the endocrine system. Good posture increases proper hormone function and empowers individuals. As technology continues to increasingly govern societal functions, the need for physicians who positively influence posture grows. Unfortunately, most of society still falsely believes that good posture is more of a cosmetic issue than a health issue. Because of this, awareness and education are critical to making changes; chiropractic physicians are the key players in positively influencing individual’s lives with regard to structure and function.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

203-451-6208

LESS SLEEP BRINGS ON THE MUNCHIES

R

ecent research from the University of Chicago’s Sleep, Health and Metabolism Center has found that not getting enough sleep increases a cannabinoid chemical in the body that increases appetite.

The result is a lack of control in snacking.

The researchers tested 14 young adults by comparing the results of four nights of normal sleep with four nights of only four-and-a-half hours of sleep. The researchers found that after reduced sleep, the subjects’ hunger increased significantly and their ability to resist afternoon snacking decreased.

This surge in snacking urges also matched significantly increased circulating levels of endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol, which peaked in the afternoon, coinciding with the increase in snack cravings.

“We found that sleep restriction boosts a signal that may increase the hedonic aspect of food intake,” concludes lead study author Erin Hanlon, Ph.D., from the University of Chicago Medical Center.

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esearch from Poland’s Department of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, in Lodz, has determined that a pulsedfrequency electrotherapy treatment can significantly improve the functional abilities of multiple sclerosis patients.

The researchers tested 20 multiple sclerosis patients randomly divided into two groups. For 60 minutes, one group was given the frequency therapy and the other underwent exercise therapy.

The frequency therapy group showed improvement in nine of 10 different evaluation tests of each patient.

The patented High Tone Frequency technique was developed by Dr. Hans-Ulrich May, a professor of medical engineering from Germany’s University of Karlsruhe.

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September 2016

17

healthbriefs BREAST MILK SUPPORTS PREEMIES’ DEVELOPING BRAINS

A

study from the Washington University School of Medicine, in St. Louis, Missouri, has found that premature babies that receive at least 50 percent of their diet from breast milk in their first month have significantly better brain development than babies that consume less breast milk.

The researchers tested 77 infants born an average of 14 weeks before their full nine-month term—referred to as preterm or preemie. The brain scans of the infants were compared with how much breast milk they received while in the natal intensive care unit. Mother’s breast milk was not distinguished from breast milk provided by others.

Senior researcher, physician and child psychiatry professor Cynthia Rogers explains, “With MRI scans, we found that babies fed more breast milk had larger brain volumes. This is important because several other studies have shown a correlation between brain volume and cognitive development.”

Preterm birth has been linked with neurological and psychiatric problems later in life, and the researchers plan to continue to study the children. “We want to see whether this difference in brain size has an effect on any of these developmental milestones,” says Rogers.

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In the U.S., PEMF technology is currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for several applications, including bone fusion and bone density ensoulbyrd@yahoo.com hancement treatments for those recovering from compound fractures and those who experience bone degeneration associated with old age. The technology allows the broadcasting and delivering of electromagnetic fields that charge cells into a state of homeostatic resonance, thereby strengthening the energy field of each cell. It does so by recharging cells, increasing oxygenation, enhancing circulation, improving hydration, facilitating detoxification, and gaining a better overall absorption of nutrients.

PEMF has been used successfully for conditions such as arthritis, neck and back pain, sciatica, sport injuries, post-operative healing, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Lyme disease and many others.

It is important to note that those with pacemakers and those who are pregnant or at risk for epileptic seizures should not use PEMF therapy.

PEMF is offered in Fairfield County at Kure Spa in Norwalk, Whole-Body Medicine in Fairfield and Resonating Wellness in Westport. See ads, pages 2 and 3.

18

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

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September 2016

19

globalbriefs

Hello Escargot

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

Indian runner ducks have been used in Asia for thousands of years to control pests. Now they’re being used in a South African vineyard to eat snails that damage the vines. On the Vergenoegd Wine Estate, in Stellenbosch, South Africa, about 1,000 of the well-behaved quackers parade twice a day into a vineyard to rid it of pests, as they have done for at least 30 years.

Denzil Matthys, the duck caretaker at Vergenoegd, confirms that the ducks help make the farm sustainable. “We try to keep a pesticide-free farm by using the ducks,” he says.

Marlize Jacobs, the farm manager and winemaker, says snails are a big problem at Vergenoegd because of the vineyard’s proximity to the ocean. “After winter, the vineyards bud,” she says. “Those buds are succulent bits of food and snails love to eat them. If we don’t control them, they will absolutely destroy the vineyard.”

Pest Control Without Chemicals

Nuclear Advancement

Aerospace Giant Closes in on Superior Fusion Power Lockheed Martin scientists have made a breakthrough in developing a nuclear-fusion-based power source, and estimates that the first commercial reactors, small enough to fit on the back of a truck, could be available within 10 years.

“We can make a big difference on the energy front,” says project head Tom McGuire. The company has been working for 60 years to find a way to make a power source based on nuclear fusion as a safer and more efficient alternative to the fission reactors in use since the Cold War era.

Nuclear power plants produce dangerous radiation as a byproduct and leave behind toxic nuclear waste that can endure for centuries. By contrast, fusion, which powers the stars, occurs when small, light atoms such as hydrogen smash together to form heavier atoms, releasing enormous amounts of energy. To date, scientists have been unable to initiate fusion reactions on Earth without using more energy than the reaction produces.

Preliminary work suggests that it will be feasible to build a 100 megawatt reactor 10 times smaller than traditional fission reactors. That’s enough power to light up a city of 80,000 homes. Lockheed Martin is now seeking government and industry partners to build a prototype.

Watch a video at Tinyurl.com/ DuckPestControl.

Source: Reuters

Where words fail,

Kinesthetic Kids

music speaks.

New Desks Aid Learning via Movement

photo courtesy of Moving-Minds.com

Educators at Charleston County schools, in South Carolina, know that more movement and exercise makes kids better learners, even as the amount of time devoted to physical education (PE) and recess has been declining sharply in the U.S.

“If you ask anyone in education if they prefer PE or class instruction, they say instruction every time,” says David Spurlock, coordinator of health, wellness and physical education for the Charleston County school district.

“Yet, what we’re trying to show is that more movement equals better grades, behavior and bodies.”

Charles Pinckney Elementary School, in Charleston, employs Active Brains, a program that uses 15 stations through which students rotate during the class. Each station has a unique exercise component such as a mini-basketball hoop or an exercise bike, and is focused on a different academic task such as spelling or math flashcards. This is the first classroom in the U.S. equipped with only kinesthetic desks. The program has been in operation for three years and has a waiting list of students excited to try the new approach.

20

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

~Hans Christian Andersen

wisewords

Little by little, all of our awakening practices work to transform our life. They move us from being externally oriented and reactive to being established within and quietly responsive. We come to have a wider view that life can effectively contain and envelop the different facets of ourselves and the world.

Inside the Chant with Krishna Das

Kirtan Music Transports Listeners to a Deeper Place

Why do many consider a kirtan event a transcendent experience far beyond the music?

by Robin Fillmore

How would you introduce your music?

Across the country and around the world, yoga practitioners are chanting the names of God in tongues including Sanskrit, Hindi, Punjabi and English. They’re taking kirtan music out of the temples and the yoga studios and into dance halls, universities, cathedrals and other unexpected places.

In the last decade, India’s traditional call-and-response form of chanting has been reinvented by modern devotional artists blending traditional kirtan with modern genres such as rock, rhythm and blues, hip-hop and electronica—breathing new life and devotion into yoga’s sacred chants.

Photo by Payal Kumar

I

nfluential spiritual leader Ram Dass has described Krishna Das (Jeffrey Kagel) as an example of someone whose “heartsongs” open channels to God. The Grammy-nominated kirtan artist, long considered yoga’s rock star, consistently plays to sold-out crowds worldwide. The Long Island native’s journey has gone from being a member of a popular rock band to going to India, where as a student of spiritual leader Neem Karoli Baba, the trajectory of his life and music shifted and expanded.

His 1996 debut album, One Track Heart, focused on updated chants from the ancient tradition of bhakti yoga, followed in 1998 by Pilgrim Heart, with a guest appearance

by Sting. Since then, a steady stream of 14 albums and DVDs produced on his own label have provided the soundtrack for yoga classes everywhere; the soothing rhythmic chants performed in a deep, rich timbre complements instruction in the spiritual element of the exercise.

Das’ specialty, kirtan, updates an ancient tradition of devotional chanting as meditation accompanied by instruments. A kirtan concert invites audience members to join in the experience through chanting, clapping and dancing and is characterized as a journey into the self that also connects us with each other.

What does kirtan mean to you?

For me, kirtan is all about the music.

The more ways I practice sustainable health, balance, love and music and immerse myself in a spiritual life, the more I realize that all issues distill down to simple facts. Everyone wants to be loved and happy, and to avoid suffering and being judged.

Looking at our lives, we start to see how we hurt ourselves and others and how what happens to us in daily life can be difficult to deal with. We recognize that we must find deep inner strength so we don’t get destroyed by the waves that come and try to toss us around.

There are two things: the music and where the music is carrying us. In this case, it’s the names of God, of divinity, that are real and inside us. We can call this higher sense anything we like and aim in that direction according to how we identify with it.

If we want peace in the world, then every individual needs to find peace within. We can’t create peace or happiness with anger and selfishness in our heart and mind. We can release ourselves from a limiting storyline, whatever it is, and touch a deeper place for a while. Then, when we return to our day, we are standing on slightly different ground because we have trained ourselves to let go a little bit. It’s a gradual process that takes time and effort, but it’s a joyful practice.

Do you see a shift in thinking echoing that of the 1960s that positions us to do better this time?

In the 1960s, everyone thought they were going to change the external world, but they forgot they have to change themselves, too, and little work was done inside. Today, while most people keep trying to first rearrange the outside world, more are now doing the necessary inside work, as well.

The key is to understand what’s truly possible. If we don’t understand how we can be happy and at peace in the middle of a burning fire, we won’t recognize the tools available to create that kind of light for ourselves and others.

Robin Fillmore is the publisher of the Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C, edition.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

September 2016

21

Music as Medicine Music Soothes, Energizes and Heals Us

by Kathleen Barnes

A

s primeval drumbeats echo across an African savannah, the rhythms circle the globe, picked up by the chants and rattles of shamans gracing Amazonian jungles and Siberian tundra. They’re repeated in Gregorian chants filling medieval cathedrals and “om” meditations sounding in Himalayan caves and yoga classes everywhere.

They gently echo in the repeated tones of mothers’ lullabies, happy hummings as we go about our day and the melodies of Mozart.

Music is the soundtrack of our lives, whether we’re aware of it or not.

It exists within, uniting and guiding us, and has helped heal body and spirit since the dawn of humanity. National Aeronautics and Space Administration scientists recently discovered that the universe itself has a song.

Pioneering Practitioners

From the soothing tones of a harp to the jarring screeches of a construction site, the stress-reducing or stress-producing properties of sound are familiar to us all.

“Stress is an underlying cause of the vast majority of all illnesses, and sound and music are effective in relieving stress and bringing stillness,” says Jonathan Goldman, an internationally recognized pioneer in harmonics and sound healing and director of the Sound Healers Association in Boulder, Colorado.

Through researching his many books, including The 7 Secrets of Sound 22

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Healing, Goldman is convinced of the profound effect sound has on the human organism. “The simple chanting of the sound ‘om,’ or ‘aum,’ in addition to instilling calmness and relaxation, causes the release of melatonin and nitric oxide. It relaxes blood vessels, releases soothing endorphins, reduces the heart rate and slows breathing,” he explains.

“Sound can change our immune function,” wrote the late Dr. Mitchell Gaynor, former director of medical oncology at New York’s Weill-Cornell Medical College for Complementary and Integrative Medicine in his book The Healing Power of Sound. “After either chanting or listening to certain forms of music, your Interleukin-1 level, an index of your immune system, goes up between 12-anda-half and 15 percent. Further, about 20 minutes after listening to meditative-type music, the immunoglobulin levels in the blood are significantly increased. Even the heart rate and blood pressure are lowered. There’s no part of your body not affected. Its effects even show up on a cellular and sub-cellular level.”

Practical Applications

Consider some of music’s scientifically validated health benefits:

Stress: Singing, whether carrying a tune or not, is a powerful way to combat stress, according to many studies. A recent joint study by German and British researchers published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience confirms that

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simply listening to soothing music results in significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The more intense the experience is in singing or playing an instrument, the greater the stress reduction. A collaborative study by several Swedish universities showed that group singing caused participants’ heart rates to synchronize, producing relaxation effects similar to that achieved through group meditation.

Cancer: Gaynor used music to treat even advanced cancer patients for decades, considering it a “disease of disharmony.” He advocated re-harmonizing the body with sound vibrations that affect virtually every cell, especially enhancing immune function and potentially preventing cancer from spreading. Gaynor primarily used crystal bowls to produce deep relaxation and harmonize dysrhythmic cells in patients, but also confirmed the healing effects of certain vibratory tones of drumming and Tibetan metal gongs.

Several studies confirm that listening to any kind of soothing music relieves anxiety in cancer patients; a large study from Philadelphia’s Drexel University confirms that it also relieves pain, lowers blood pressure, improves breathing and minimizes nausea associated with chemotherapy.

Depression: Drumming can better counter depression than the prescription drug Prozac, according to a recent study by England’s Royal College of Music. Those that participated in a weekly drumming group experienced significantly reduced symptoms compared to a control group.

Substance Abuse: University of California, Los Angeles, scientists found that drumming was especially helpful for a group of Native Americans struggling with such issues.

Smartphone Addiction: Korean research found that music therapy is helpful in overcoming this condition.

Immune Dysfunction: The same British study of drumming’s antidepressant effects saw similar improvement in immune function, plus an anti-inflammatory response that continued for at least three months after the study period.

Neuroendocrine Disorders: Researchers at Pennsylvania’s Meadville Medical Center Mind-Body Wellness Group found that drumming effectively

helped drummers (skilled and unskilled) suffering from neuroendocrine disorders such as pituitary tumors and intestinal issues caused by disconnections between the endocrine gland and nervous systems. They further confirmed that group drumming reduced stress chemicals such as cortisol in the drummers.

Muscle Tension Dysphonia: Even tuneless humming sounds like “umhum” can have a measurable therapeutic effect on individuals that have lost their voices due to overuse.

Pain: When a group of British citizens suffering from chronic pain joined a choir, a Lancaster University study found they were better able to manage their condition for improved quality of life.

Just listening to harp music for 20 minutes decreased anxiety, lowered blood pressure and relieved pain in a group of U.S. heart surgery patients with short-term pain participating in a University of Central Florida study in Orlando.

Alzheimer’s Disease: In addition to reducing the agitation and anxiety frequently accompanying Alzheimer’s disease, researchers at Florida’s University of Miami School of Medicine found that a group of patients that participated in music therapy for four weeks experienced increased levels of the calming brain chemical melatonin.

How It Works

“Humming or singing causes longer exhalations than normal, helping to naturally eliminate toxins and acidity,” says Dr. Madan Kataria, of Mumbai, India, who has spawned 5,000 laughter clubs worldwide.

“We started experimenting with the vowel sounds and humming sound.

An early unpublished humming study I did in Denmark showed that people that hummed anything for just 10 minutes were able to reduce their systolic blood pressure by 10 to 15 points, their

In Nigeria, we say that rhythm is the soul of life, because the whole universe revolves around rhythm; when we get out of rhythm, that’s when we get into trouble. ~Babatunde Olatunji, drummer and social activist diastolic by four to five points and their pulse rate by 10 beats per minute.” Kataria found that people with breathing problems like asthma and emphysema experienced especially positive effects because it strengthened belly muscles used in breathing.

Kataria is also a fan of kirtan—Hindu devotional call-and-response chants often accompanied by ecstatic dancing.

“Kirtan takes away self-consciousness or nervousness and anxiety,” he says.

Dr. Eben Alexander, who recorded his near-death experience in Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, says the “indescribable” cosmic music he experienced has helped him come to understand the effects of specific sound frequencies on the brain. He now provides audio tools to help bring the brain to a higher state and help it match that higher and more conscious state. In his medical practice in Charlottesville, Virginia, he often employs music from a patient’s past to help them emerge from a brain injury or coma and even “reconnect pathways in a damaged brain.”

Alexander explains that binaural beats and other sound effects combine to create “brain entrainment” and also in theory, “monotonize” it to free awareness and access realms other than the physical. “It’s magical what the right type of music can do to the brain stem to free up our consciousness,” he observes.

No Talent Needed

Experts agree that people without musical talent are able to experience the same

Nature’s Healing Sounds The calming sounds of rushing water and gentle breezes are well known; science is now confirming the therapeutic effects of singing birds. Belgian researchers confirmed that bird song helps drown out the stressful effects of traffic noise, and Korean scientists found it makes people feel less crowded. A study published in the American Journal of Physiology showed that it can even help regulate participants’ circadian rhythms, contributing to restful sleep and overall wellness.

benefits as virtuosos, based on their degree of engagement with music. Anyone can hum, and most research confirms that benefits are enhanced in creating music rather than merely listening to it.

Group singing has become increasingly popular, especially following the hit TV show Glee. Time magazine reported in 2013 that 32.5 million American adults sang in choirs, up about 30 percent from a decade earlier.

The choice of musical genre matters. Recent data from Montreal’s McGill University shows that types of music tend to have specific effects; for example, blues slows heart rate and calms an anxious person, rock and punk can boost energy, and reggae can help control anger.

Spirit Moves

The spiritual aspects of virtually all types of music cannot be underestimated, says Michael Hove, Ph.D., a cognitive neuroscientist affiliated with Harvard Medical School and Fitchburg State University, in Massachusetts.

His research has primarily focused on drumming to induce altered states of consciousness that shamans from diverse cultures use to bring about physical and emotional healing. What Hove calls a “boring and super-predictable” drumbeat of 240 beats a minute induced a deep trance state within minutes in most subjects, and brain scans confirmed that it enabled them to focus intensely and block out distracting sounds within eight minutes.

This aligns with Alexander’s view that, “The sound of music is absolutely crucial in launching us into transcendental awareness. For the true, deep seeker, sound and vibration and the memory of music can serve as a powerful engine to help direct us in the spiritual realms.”

Kathleen Barnes has authored numerous natural health books, including her latest, Our Toxic World: A Survivor’s Guide. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

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degrees of abilities respond to aspects of music in daily life.

There is a growing body of research demonstrating its utility in populations dealing with specific conditions and situations, including autism spectrum disorder, sensory disorders, social anxiety, dementia, post traumatic stress and more.

Fairfield County is home to several organizations whose highly trained specialists are devoted to the use of music and the arts to unlock individual potential. These leading groups provide support and empowerment to special needs individuals of all ages and stages of life in Connecticut and neighboring areas.

Arts for Healing

Music Therapy Unlocks Potential FFC Organizations Empower Special Needs Populations

by Nicole Miale

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he use of music as a healing medium dates back to ancient times but the modern modality of music therapy developed in the United States after World Wars I and II. When the clinical professionals in Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals witnessed the effect music had on veterans’ psychological, physiological, cognitive and emotional states, it sparked interest in conducting more research.

Today, there are more than 70 approved music therapy programs being offered at colleges and universities to train musicians in how to use music for therapeutic purposes.

Once a program is successfully completed, an individual is eligible to take a national examination and become certified with the credential for professional practice as a music therapist. The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA, MusicTherapy.org) is a professional organization representing approximately 6,000 music therapists nationwide and in more than 30 countries.

Music therapy is currently defined as the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program (AMTA, 2005). Music therapy is an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music to affect a person’s physical, emotional, mental, social, cultural, aesthetic and spiritual aspects in order to help someone improve or maintain their health. Music is used to connect with clients, reveal possibilities and improve quality of life.

People of all ages, cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds and 24

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New Canaan’s Arts for Healing (ArtsforHealing.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing integrated music therapy and art therapy for individuals at all stages of life with emotional, physical, developmental and social needs.

Director Karen Nisenson, MM, MA, MT-BC, founded Arts for Healing in 2000 to raise awareness of the power of the arts as a therapeutic vehicle for the special needs communities of Fairfield County and New York’s Westchester County.

“Music and movement provide a bridge that goes beyond disability and reaches the innermost potential of all individuals,” Nisenson says. “They enable people to connect in a different way, no matter how their brain functions.”

The organization’s eight art therapists—including art, dance, music and theater specialists—help individuals of all ages and abilities to achieve greater communication skills, self-expression, self-esteem and confidence. They work at the Grove Street center and Grace Farms in New Canaan, as well as at peoples’ homes and in institutional settings. The outcomes of the work vary widely but include reduction of anxiety, stress management, increased communication and improved emotional self-expression.

Nisenson sees creative expression as a reflective experience, which is especially critical for individuals who are non-verbal, such as children or adults on the autism spectrum and adults suffering from dementia.

“The work I do is about getting people to discover their own potential,” she explains. “The best way to do that is to give people a vehicle to access and express what they are feeling while targeting issues that hamper development and quality of life.”

Nisenson encourages the integration of the various expressive modalities, believing it is their shared expressive possibility which can often result in the greatest benefit. This is because art and music can target separate issues in the individual at the same time. The integrated music and art therapy methodology, known as IMAT, is used by all Arts for Healing therapists.

“Music is often Collins Merrill of KinderCare JCC the motivator for new

movement,” she says. “It uses all parts of the brain and invites new body awareness through its rhythm. Human beings are rhythm. So when music is used as a motivator, it enhances and drives movement in a very natural and beautiful way.”

Connecticut Music Therapy Services In 2005, Music Therapist Jennifer Sokira, MMT, LCAT, MTBC, started Watertown’s Connecticut Music Therapy Services (CTMTS, CTMusicTherapy. com) with a similar mission as Nisenson’s: to nurture creative possibilities in people. Music Therapist Emily Bevelaqua joined her as a partner as the practice grew; now just over a decade later, CTMTS has five full-time therapists serving hundreds of people throughout the state. A second CTMTS office opened in January of this year in Fairfield’s Harbor Light Therapy and Social Center.

Kelsy Gati, a music therapist who joined the CTMTS team in 2014, is passionate about the work the team does to promote social connectivity. “Music is a really connective medium,” she says. “It allows all people to experience socialization in a way that is less pressure-filled.”

Gati says socially connective opportunities are plentiful through music no matter what the individual’s age or ability. These possibilities include songwriting, lyric analysis, sharing familiar music, listening to music, moving the

Music With Matt body, vocalizing and instrument playing.

The actual music therapy services delivered to any individual by a therapist are based on each client’s abilities, Gati says, noting the influence also of preferences, needs, the family’s values, beliefs and priorities. The initial music therapy assessment process is to gain an understanding of the individual’s current level of functioning while engaging in a variety of intentional and developmentally sound music experiences.

The music therapy intervention plan is based on the assessment outcomes and is always person-based depending on the overall goals.

“Music, cognitively speaking, is one of the only activities you can do that requires use of both sides of the brain,” Gati explains. “Because of that, you are quite literally able to tap into your brain’s potential in a fuller and completely unique way.”

“It is so rewarding to see what can be unlocked,” Gati continues. “The key is the gradual nature of it and trusting that each individual will connect with what has meaning for them. You can’t

force anything, it has to develop and be unlocked gradually.”

In the process, it creates possibilities for understanding of self and others.

Whether it is two preschoolers banging on one drum together, a group of older teens tasked with writing a song together, or an elderly patient gaining joy or a moment of clarity from recalling and singing music of a bygone era, music has the capacity to soothe the soul and expand horizons.

Nicole Miale is publisher and executive editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County.

Local Resources Arts for Healing 24 Grove St, New Canaan 203-972-2982 ArtsForHealing.org Info@ArtsForHealing.org CT Music Therapy Services 51 Depot St, Ste 214, Watertown 2505 Black Rock Tpke, Fairfield 800-796-4914 CTMusicTherapy.com Info@CTMusicTherapy.com National Resource: The American Music Therapy Association 301-589-3300 MusicTherapy.org Info@MusicTherapy.org

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Healing Sounds and Vibrations Resonance: Ancient Practice Being Rediscovered by (Aurélia) Jennifer Zulli

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hat do the brilliant minds of Greek mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, Baroque composer J.S Bach, and Swiss psychiatrist and psychologist Carl Jung have in common? They share deep understanding that music and sound connect humans to the earth and beyond.

Sound healing and sound/music therapy are growing increasingly popular these days as an alternative way to deal with a range of “dis-eases” from chronic pain to ADHD to depression and more. Sound and music is currently being welcomed as a tool to assist healing in hospitals, schools, nurseries, birthing centers, rehabilitation facilities and retirement communities around the U.S. and Europe.

Tibetan and quartz crystal singing bowls, tuning forks, gongs, didgeridoos, drums, rattles and other instruments are being utilized to help patients and clients go beyond relaxation and into a place where the body and mind are receptive to balance and, ultimately, healing.

“When properly mobilized, sound can specifically entrain the human or26

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ganism toward the greater harmony and homeostasis that it requires to remain vibrant and to regenerate after injury or illness. The properties of sound medicine—entrainment, harmony and homeostasis—represent the rational and spiritual foundation for a new movement in the healing arts and sciences,” according to Mitchell Gaynor, M.D., the late integrative oncologist who was passionate about using sound to help heal his patients with cancer.

This might be a new movement in the Western world but music and sound used as a tool for healing is deeply rooted in ancient cultures and civilizations. Schools of ancient Egypt and Greece considered healing and sound a highly developed sacred science.

The flute and lyre were used to treat illnesses such as gout and sciatica. When illness set in, Native American shamans used their own voice in healing rituals by singing to themselves to facilitate healing. Creating light through vocal harmonics was utilized by Mayan shamans. Hindu Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Kundalini yogic practices have used the breath-chant combina-

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tion to balance the energetic centers and cleanse the subtle energy body for thousands of years. In early Christianity, Gregorian chants used certain melodic and harmonic structure that helped prepare for accessing a heightened state of divine awareness and power.

The common denominator in all of the ancient healing wisdoms is the knowledge and understanding that humans are beings of vibration.

Everything vibrates; it is vibration that we see, hear, feel and experience on our earth journeys. When our bodies are ill, when we have chronic pain, depression and anxiety, it is our bodies’ way of telling us we are not in vibrational harmony. Is “dis-ease” a physical manifestation of stored pain, trauma, emotional blockages or deep conditioned thoughts and beliefs that need to be brought to the surface, attended to and released? How does sound and music help to attain whole being healing? When body and mind are given the proper tools for energetic release and vibrational alignment, the body can then heal from the inside out instead of a pharmaceutical drug masking a symptom of the “root” cause.

Singing Bowls and Gongs Use of Tibetan singing bowls can bring brainwaves from alpha to theta, which creates a deep state of relaxation, harmony and balance. Because of the multiple harmonics, the sound can have the effect of bringing both hemispheres of the brain into synchronization. Sound can be the medium that transports a person to an elevated state of consciousness. Through journey inner clarity, peace and the healing knowledge can be attained.

When the body is allowed to be in a non-resistant mode, “ease” not “dis- ease” can begin. Gongs have been used for more than 4,000 years; attending a gong bath is a powerful method for reducing stress and breaking up emotional blockages. The gong creates a profoundly relaxing ocean of sound that activates the parasympathetic nervous system to balance the over-amped, over-taxed sympathetic nervous system.

“The sounds from the gong travel from the outer ear throughout the body via the vagus nerve, impacting brain

waves, respiratory rates and heart rates.

Sound enters the healing equation from several directions. It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects. It may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically. It may calm the mind and therefore the body. Or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which, in turn, help to regulate the immune system—the healer within,” says gong master and Kundalini yoga teacher, Don Contreaux, who is in his 46th year of gong healing and teaching.

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Your Own Voice Whether you sing to yourself, chant sacred chants or tone your chakras, the ultimate sound healer can be your voice. Its resonance is as unique as your fingerprint and extraordinarily powerful while raising your vibration.

It is said that while chanting, the tongue connects with meridian points on the roof of the mouth. These points are connected to areas in the brain that can result in chemical changes that bring about a more balanced psyche; strengthen the immune system; and promote mental, physical and emotional health. One of the interesting things about mantra chanting is that it works even when the chanter does not understand why.

Sound healing, when practiced by caring, supportive and educated practitioners with the highest intentions, can be tools for profound healing. In the end, these sacred instruments can allow each of us to tap into the ancient wisdom within our bodies, and connect to our intuitive knowledge and higher self.

They can bring us back into alignment while raising our individual and collective vibration. When emotional, spiritual and physical bodies are in accord with each other, illness fades, pain disappears, and the divine path shines bright.

(Aurélia) Jennifer Zulli, MA, is an award-winning new age recording artist, composer, singer, and sound and energy healer. She is the founder and director of SOUND (A Center for Arts & Mindfulness) in Newtown. Connect with her at JenniferZulli.com or SoundCenterArts.com.

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Connecting “within” through free and inspired body movement is the power of conscious dance.

The Power of Conscious Dance Creative Movement Connects Body, Mind and Spirit

by Gail Condrick

A growing tribe of movers and shakers are discovering and unleashing their power in conscious dance, a combination of moving meditation, soul-stirring music, self-expression and sweat.

M

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ost are familiar with the performance or competitive dance world of learned steps.

Conscious dance is a non-competitive, body-based way of raising consciousness. There’s no wrong way to move and your shape and measurements don’t matter,” says Mark Metz, of Berkley, California, founder and executive director of the Dance First Association (DFA) and publisher of the Conscious Dancer Magazine and UpShift Guide.

The group identifies more than 100 forms of conscious dance, ranging from ecstatic dance to somatic movement therapy. Commonalities include body awareness, barefoot movement, inspiring global music and minimal structure facilitated by leaders.

With 1,000 DFA studio locations, many are finding the power of 28

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conscious dance suits their search for movement with purpose beyond improved fitness as it’s practiced in drug- and alcohol-free club-style events and ecstatic dance experiences, as well as dance fitness programs. “It’s about honoring body intelligence and paying attention to the body and mind-body connection,” says Metz.

“The modalities mentioned most often are 5Rhythms, Soul Motion, Open Floor, JourneyDance, and the Nia Technique,” says Metz. A brief look at three of them shows how each has its own style.

5Rhythms In St. Petersburg, Florida, 22 women have gathered to seek the bliss promised by 5Rhythms, one of the original conscious dance forms, founded by

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the late Gabrielle Roth. “Find your flow. Feel your connection to the Earth through your feet and release your head,” guides facilitator Amber Ryan, of New York City, who travels the world for dance sessions. “Use your body as a gateway into the now.” For two hours, dancers move freely and individually, swaying, sensing and interacting in an experience called “the wave”, intended to move energy through the body, release emotions and heal the psyche.

It’s based on Roth’s premise that, “Each of us is a moving center, a space of divine mystery. Though we spend most of our time on the surface in daily ordinary existence, most of us hunger to connect to this space within, to break through to bliss, to be swept into something bigger.”

JourneyDance Toni Bergins, from the Massachusetts Berkshires, is a frequent presenter at the Kripalu Center and Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. After years of studying and teaching movement, drama, creative visualization and gestalt techniques, she combined them in creating JourneyDance. More than 400 trained facilitators now offer it in 60- or 90-minute classes worldwide based on the philosophy, “Move into a new story!” Every class includes visualization, creative movement, affirmations and evocative music, all working together to release emotions and connect with spirit.

“You learn to love your body, expand your emotional intelligence, clear your mind and connect with your inner source,” explains Bergins. “You express yourself, infuse life with creativity and connect with a dancing community.”

Participants engage in a ritual journey of physical transformation, cleansing the body through breath, sweat and expression. In this safe space, “Dancers discover their power and personal heart medicine, their true essence,” says Bergins.

Nia Technique For those that prefer more structure, the Nia Technique is the original barefoot mind-body-spirit fitness practice, activating sensation and awareness in a workout adaptable for everybody. More than 2,600 instructors in 51 countries offer 60-minute classes where enthusiasts move the way the body is built to move, reaping cardiovascular fitness and therapeutic benefits while having joyful fun. Dancers, guided by instructor’s moves, feel the rhythm of the music and ground themselves in spirit, equipping themselves to take the selfhealing experience into everyday life.

“Nia has always blended form and freedom,” says Debbie Rosas, of Portland, Oregon, co-founder and creator of the technique. “We are now introducing new FreeDance classes to bring what we have learned through Nia to embody consciousness in new ways, conditioning the whole body and nervous system. It’s an invitation to move in free, unbound, unstructured ways to offset the tendency we have to move less as we age.”

Dancers move to music designed to animate each chakra through an eight-stage process via a Nia DJ. They’re guided to listen to body feedback through sensation, release emotions and relish being in the present moment.

“Regardless of how you act, dress or think, the way you feel inside reveals the most accurate truth of oneself and this is reflected in dance,” says Rosas.

“Moving without interference allows your unconscious creative self to shine.

You can connect to the sacred artist within; the one that holds a palette with endless colors, shapes and possibilities.” She sees life as ultimately a free-style dance into the self that supports a philosophy of “Love your body, love your life”.

“Dance is in everyone’s family tree, a universal message,” says Metz.

“In conscious dance, you disconnect from gadgets and reconnect with yourself and others around you. People need that.”

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Gail Condrick is a Nia faculty member, retreat leader and archetypal soul coach in Sarasota, FL. Connect at GaelaVisions.com. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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to become translator and interpreter, uniting the different forms to achieve our highest level of healing and selfempowerment.

Know Our Geniuses: Understanding and Comprehending Mind: Satisfy the intellect. Read scientific studies, research and ask people for referrals. Take notice of thoughts and feelings that occur.

Body: Experience it. Try it, do it, experiment. Ask how the body is feeling during a new practice, such as a seated meditation or a hot yoga class.

What thoughts come up and how do they feel?

ENHANCE YOUR HEALING PRACTICES How to Access the Three Geniuses

by JoJo Keane

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e are searching to be our best selves, to receive understanding or confirmation from the outer world. But what about attending to the world inside us? Once we come to know the mind, body and emotion connections and how they interact, we discover the connectivity that lies there. As we learn to decipher the different language of each form— how they interact, communicate and how to unify them—we become a

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Emotion: Close the eyes, get quiet, and open up to feelings. Observe without criticizing. Notice feelings of all kinds and what triggers them.

As we yearn to expand into new levels of consciousness, we are also held back by the opposite longing for the safety and comforts of the known.

Give attention to these polar opposite conditions that exist in our nature.

The yearning to venture out and seek is natural and so is the fear that is triggered by the unfamiliar. This balancing act will require outward movement with a constant internal integration.

As the Geniuses talk to each other through the body, they are working out not only the language barriers but their possible conflicting opinions. One Genius may crave activity while the other may cling to staying put, worried about how the change will affect the whole.

The key is to stay curious as we dig for resistance. Find the places that make us emotionally uncomfortable, whether it is a place of, “I don’t like this,” or “No way, too weird.” Cultivate an attitude of acknowledging the resistance. Be calm and curious about the new self knowledge arising. Emotions don’t like to be pushed; the mind can be stubborn, and the body can be a lazy couch potato. Allow it all to just be; we are creating an atmosphere where these multidimensional communicators can all come to chat and figure it out. This allowing environment creates trust amongst the Geniuses.

Cultivate Our Geniuses: Practices that Connect the Dots Healing Yoga: Yoga is recommended as a daily exercise practice to open the body, align the bones and warm the muscles. It’s crucial to be an observer during the movement practice. Awareness and study of the eight limbs of yoga will deepen our experiences, helping create a greater union inside of us between the Geniuses.

• The Yamas: moral code • The Niyamas: personal disciplines • The Asanas: postures or sacred movements to ready the body for meditation • The Pranayama: breathing techniques to control the life force • Pratyahara: drawing attachment • Dharana: concentration • Dhyana: meditation practice • Samadhi: merging with the divine within Healing Movement and Dance: The physical body holds trapped emotions and trauma. Tension stuck in the body blocks the flow of communication between the Geniuses. In this practice, we listen to our bodies and allow expression through organic movement. In a dance, we can work out anything without the need to relive it in the mind. When the body is given this opportunity of freestyle organic

movement in a non-judging atmosphere, many things can heal and shift spontaneously. It doesn’t matter what our stories are or why we’re tense, just move and loosen it up. Find the tension and release it through shaking, jumping, wiggling or flying across the floor.

The Heartmath Institute has studied the effect of creative/intuitive movement on individuals’ anxiety levels. Testing before and after the dance, recipients were able to see their own levels shift on a computer screen as their bodies went from a highly agitated state to one of compassion and love after the dance.

Sound Healing: The invisible vibration of sound created for healing carries a message into the body.

People can partake in sound healing by attending a live concert, or by using headphones with a downloaded music track. The rest and nourishment a body receives is subtle and profound, deeply affecting the brain and nervous system. This type of treatment can brings the body into vibrational balance so the nervous, immune systems and glands can work optimally.

Memories and feelings may come into consciousness during a session. Some individuals see colored lights or images. Emotions such as grief and fear might come up from the past to be released. Responses can range from laughter to tears to going into a deep sleep. Inspired thoughts or visions may also arise accompanied by a high vibration tingling in the muscles.

Embrace the practice in a holistic, multidimensional way. As we unify our Geniuses and express our growth and expansion outward, we’ll be tending to our inner worlds too.

JoJo Keane, an energy healer, yoga teacher and Journey Dance instructor, offers healing sessions, workshops and classes. Based in Newtown, she is the founder of Inspired Soul Studio and InspiredSoul.net.

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Mastering Yoga The yoga community in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties has never been more vibrant!

Seeking Out Trauma-Informed Yoga

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nneke Lucas, founder of Liberation Prison Yoga, is presenting Creating a Safe Space with Anneke Lucas through The Yoga Teachers Association (YTA). The workshop will take place on September 10 from 1:30-4:30pm at the Yoga Studio at Club Fit in Briarcliff Manor, New York. It will be followed

by YTA’s annual Prana Party at 4:30pm in the Club Fit lounge.

This is an opportunity for members to connect and share ideas. Anneke Lucas will also be available for questions.

Repressed emotions connected to all kinds of trauma can cause imbalances in the body-mind system that may manifest Anneke Lucas as uncontrollable anger, chronic low self-esteem or physical illness. This workshop will focus on creating a safe space that allows students to break through enduring shame and connect to the self with compassion and acceptance. Participants will explore the elements of Trauma Yoga and be guided through a trauma-informed practice.

Lucas, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and trafficking, found healing through yoga. She now teaches trauma-informed yoga at prisons, including Rikers Island and Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, and to traumatized populations all over the world.

Yoga Teachers Association provides affordable continuing education opportunities to the yoga community in the lower Hudson Valley. Workshops are led by national and local instructors and are open to members and nonmembers.

Upcoming workshops include Handcrafted Yoga with Al Bingham on October 8, Chakras and Healing with Himalayan Institute’s Shari Friedrichsen on November 12, and Yin/Vinyasa: Harnessing the Power of Stillness to Maximize Your Inherent Mobility with Corina Benner on December 10.

For more information, visit YTAyoga.com or email YTAPresident@gmail.com. See ad, page 33.

Listening to ‘Drum Poetry’ in Intimate Setting

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nternationally acclaimed percussionist and storyteller, John de Kadt, returns to YogaSpace on September 23 at 8pm for Drumstory. He typically performs at larger venues and yoga festivals John de Kadt around the world, so this is an opportunity to experience his “drum poetry” in a small venue.

The oral tradition of storytelling has been the main vehicle for humans to impart wisdom, entertain, teach and retain information from generation to generation. In the past 100 years, this educational art has been all but lost on modern culture. World traveler, percussionist, poet and storyteller, John de Kadt, keeps this oral tradition alive through his blend of stories and drumming.

He plays a myriad of ethnic percussion instruments. He has performed on PBS and NBC and is the founding member of the devotional group, The Hanumen. His sixth album will be released this fall.

For more information and tickets, visit YogaSpace-CT.com or call 203-730-9642.

Find out more about John de Kadt at JohndeKadt.com. Location: YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd (Rt 6), Bethel.

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A Healing Yogic Journey to Vermont

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eptember will be a busy month at Stratford’s Jiiva Center, including its Stowe Mountain Ranch Yoga Retreat in Vermont. The four-day, three-night, all-inclusive retreat November 10-13 will be a unique, healing experience led by Berta Prevositi, Jiiva’s owner, and Nora Jaya Malfettone. Included will be morning meditation and yoga as well as other late-day yoga classes, yoga with horses, guided meditations, hiking, sauna, hot tub, Kirtan, dancing, bonfires, organic vegetarian and vegan food, healing workshops, community, waterfalls and so much more.

Several of the workshop offerings this month at Jiiva Center include Male/Female Energy, Healing Leaky Gut Syndrome, WTF is Love and Knee & Feet Pain. Just for fun, The Jiiva Center will be hosting its first free movie night; bring a friend, pillow and blanket and come to watch Love Actually. Check the website for dates for the upcoming metaphysical book club. In addition, classes will be offered on the ancient art of Reiki healing with Usui and Karuna Reiki master Berta Prevosti. Monthly classes of Reiki I, II and Masters are available by registering online.

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For more information on these events and to register, visit JiivaCenter.com or call 203-345-7747. Location: 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. See ad, page 32.

Yoga Healing Circle Offered in Redding

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n October 8 from 9:45–11:30 am, the Yoga Healing workshop with copperGrace yoga & meditation will take place at The Benedictine Grange in Redding. Rosa Esposito, assisted

by Jean Daniello, will lead the morning event. Both are yoga teachers with Yoga Alliance with E-YT 200-hour certifications.

Explore the practice of the body postures, breath work, sacred scriptures, song praise, essential oils from the Bible, and meditation as a vehicle to bring about an alert calmness to be able to hear God’s voice. All are welcome—ecumenical and interfaith—to the faith community circle. The suggested offering is $28 (cash or check) at the door. Props needed, if available, are a mat, blanket and blocks.

Rosa Esposito

For pre-registration, email NoWorriesHealing@gmail.com. Location: The Benedictine Grange, 49 Dorethy Rd, Redding. See ad, back cover.

PRIVATE YOGA & FITNESS TRAINING Elizabeth D. Aleksinas Certified Fitness Trainer, AFAA Yoga Instructor, RYT, Reiki Master Teacher Mindfulness Meditation Teacher

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Mastering Yoga

The Transformative Power of Yoga and Music Powerful Separately, A Transcendent Duo

by Gloria Owens

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here is no doubt that yoga and music can shift our mood. We love music that compels us to dance, sing, cry, create, workout, connect, relax or sleep. We’re hooked on downloads, playlists, concerts and customized radio services which will queue up tunes that meet our specific preferences. We are literally “touched” by music as sound enters our bodies and vibrates the eardrum, creating a unique personal, visceral and emotional experience.

Yoga also works on the physical, energetic and emotional layers of our being, and invites us to notice where we are being enlivened, opened, soothed and moved. It is an ancient science of the body, mind and spirit that aims to peel away layers of stress, illusion and egoic attachments so that we can experience our true expansive nature.

The Brain Game

in sweet bliss during the relaxation at the end of a yoga class?

The answer lies in the magic and mystery of the nervous system and the brain, and the myriad of ways the brain can rewire itself through experience. It’s the brain’s neuroplasticity—its ability to create new neuropathways—which helps humans to grow and change. As we change our thoughts and our “vibe” in positive ways, we entrain our brains to a new level of “normal”, thus subtly and consistently changing our lives for the better.

As energy beings that are actually vibrating atoms, we literally “resonate” in different ways with different music or movements. Mindful movement practices like yoga, tai chi and qigong can be effective at attuning us to the energy body, and our physical, emotional and psychological landscapes. By doing so, we can deepen our capacity to navigate life with more awareness and skill.

Although the focus in yoga is on postures, alignment and transitions, the true science of yoga is much more than

So what is it that’s actually happening when we immerse ourselves in our favorite piece of music or find ourselves 34 Fairfield County Edition natural awakenings

a fitness practice. It’s one of the most time-tested tools for transformation, helping us find places of resistance, fear, pain, patterns, judgment or illusion.

“Research into the neurobiology of different types of exercise seems to demonstrate that yoga has an advantage over other types of aerobic activity, especially for emotional stability and well-being,” cites Rachel Grazioplene in her Psychology Today article “This is your brain on yoga.”

This may be because of physiological responses in our bodies when we do yoga that signal our brains to release calming chemicals. These natural chemicals include endorphins which have a positive effect on our mood and pleasure responses. Coupled with the reduction of cortisol levels, the positive effects of a yoga class can last for hours.

Busy World, Busy Mind

In an overwhelming, anxious and busy world, slow and mindful styles of yoga—such as gentle, yin, restorative and yoga nidra—are particularly helpful for shifting out of our sympathetic nervous systems and supporting the parasympathetic nervous system response.

The latter is where our bodies naturally reduce pain, improve creativity and memory, and heal.

When we are in the fight-or-flight response, our bodies take blood flow away from the brain and into the periphery of the body, flooding the bloodstream with sugar and increasing the heart rate, blood pressure and respiration rate in order to prepare one for defense or flight. In this “on guard” state, our learning abilities, as well as other mental functions like problem solving and reasoning, are completely blocked.

Both music and meditative yoga have the power to support healthier sleep patterns by calming the nervous system, and slowing down the heartbeat and brainwave frequencies.

In his New York Times article, “Relax, You’ll Be More Productive”, Tony Schwartz suggests that our adrenaline and coffee-fueled, workaholic lifestyle is actually not the best way to be creative and productive. “More and more of us find ourselves unable to juggle overwhelming demands and maintain a seemingly unsustainable pace.

Paradoxically, the best way to get more done may be to spend more time doing less,” he states. Schwartz cites a growing body of multidisciplinary research showing that “strategic renewal”— including daytime workouts, short afternoon naps, longer sleep hours, daydreaming and meditation—boosts productivity, job performance and, of course, health.

Taking a yoga break, dancing in our offices or spending a few minutes consciously breathing would constitute the “strategic renewal” he cites.

Energy, Emotion and Devotion

And what of the more energetic, upbeat and active implications of yoga and music?

The devotional repetition of sounds—such as with Kirtan yogic chanting or Kundalini yoga—purposefully disarms our rational, intellectual brains, inviting us instead to surrender into the vast and mysterious ocean of emotion, feelings, vibrations and energy. In this way, sound creates the pathway to navigate through the layers of our physical, mental and emotional selves and leads us back to a sense of truth, bliss and oneness.

This is not only the realm of ancient and new age practices. The modern day versions of the “Kirtan effect” show up in experiences like the joyous uprising of a gospel choir or the resounding call-and-response refrain at

a rock concert. Our hearts swell. We connect. We sing with abandon. We sway, jump or praise with arms wide open.

Interestingly, Kirtan and uplifting sacred music has grown in popularity in the past few years. Just look at the blossoming attention for artists like Krishna Das, Deva Premal and Snatam Kaur and the thrill of large high-energy communal gatherings like the Omega Institute’s Ecstatic Chant Festival, Bhakti Fest and Sat Nam Fest. Kirtan also speaks to the fact that we are indeed social and tribal beings, and that creating sound together in community is healing and necessary for us on multiple levels.

“What you are seeking is you.” ~ Rumi

Chris Coogan (CooganMusic.com), the director the Good News Gospel Choir based in Westport, sees himself as a catalyst that uses the medium of music to bring people together. “There is something basic and deeply human about coming together and singing.

Harmonizing our voices becomes a metaphor for coming together as a community,” he explains.

“Chanting can transform emotions into devotion, putting aside the mind to open the heart and gain access to

a profound and yet very natural state of inner bliss,” says Miriam Zernis, the yogic leader of the Connecticut-based Kirtan ensemble, Sita’s Light (SitasLight.com).

Certainly, it’s this promise of inner peace and bliss that compels many people to try yoga to begin with—along with the physical benefits of less tension and pain, and more agility and general relaxation. Some classical and traditional yoga practices are done without music to keep the focus on the body, breath and mind without distraction. Other styles, including those taught by many modern teachers, utilize music to set the tone and cadence of a class. There are also conscious dance practices like Kripalu YogaDance and Journey Dance that use music specifically to engage our energy and emotions in certain ways. The soundtrack in these types of mindful movement classes becomes a key element in evoking specific feelings, allowing us to process them through movement, rather than with the mind.

Tools like music and yoga, when used with compassionate awareness, can be vehicles to help us touch undiscovered territory within ourselves.

Rhythm, Resonance and Love

“There’s always been a link between music, spirituality and healing for me,” says Connecticut-based conscious music singer-songwriter Frannie

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Faith (FrannieFaith.com), whose recent album “Peaceful Places”, is a combination of guided meditations, yoga nidra and chant.

“Singing is my way of healing myself and others by connecting people to their hearts. With open hearts, we are free to be in our natural state of oneness with one another, nature, and our planet, tapping into inner peace, beauty and joy,” Faith says. She notes that we don’t need to be a “singer” to receive the uplifting, prayerful and joyful energy that comes from singing.

Undoubtedly, transformational music comes in many forms. For some it might be jazz, for others classical, and for others soul, rap, blues or the trance-inducing beats of electronic dance music.

Employing rhythm and spoken word in his albums, videos and live events, world-class drummer and percussionist, John de Kadt (JohndeKadt. com) skillfully harnesses the power of sound to awaken the senses and expand consciousness through soundscapes, drum poetry and rhythmic scat.

Healing on a cellular level is often beyond description in experiences with Grammy-nominated recording artist, sound healer and teacher, Ashana (SoundofAshana.com). She weaves together angelic vocals and the celestial sound of crystal singing bowls. “Music and sound have the capacity to transport us, lift us to a place where you remember that you are loved so that you ultimately remember you are love,” she says.

Indeed, all of these clues point to what yogis call nada yoga, or the yoga of sound. Nada yoga is an extensive science of how sound affects the body and mind. It aims to harmonize the physical, energetic and spiritual channels as a path to self-realization.

Neuroscientists are only just beginning to unravel the mystery of what yogis have known for centuries.

Gateway to Freedom

How Yoga Changed One Musician’s Life

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ew Canaan resident Amanda Nisenson began studying opera at The Juilliard School when she was 16 and sang professionally all over the world until a few years ago when she had surgery for vocal cysts. Forced to take a medical break from performing, she started working out and doing yoga. In so doing, Nisenson lost about 80 pounds and shed an unknown amount of physical and emotional baggage.

“My whole life was about the voice, not about the body or even the breath unless it related to the voice,” she explains. “When I couldn’t sing, I unexpectedly found myself through yoga, chanting and Amanda Nisenson breathing.”

As Nisenson began to treat her body differently, she was awakened to her deeper purpose in life, a calling to reach people not only on a musical level but also on a spiritual level. She is now finishing her training at Soul of Yoga in San Diego, California, where she is learning to incorporate music movement and the teaching of yoga as a spiritual experience.

“Every person is on their own journey. Yoga allows them to get out of their own way and just experience breath and life,” Nisenson says. “If they’re open to it, there is so much to discover. A lot of people say they can’t do it, but at some level yoga is accessible to all. You just have to try.”

Nisenson currently has a private voice and classical piano studio and still plans on teaching music at her studio in New York City. Once her training is complete, she plans to teach private yoga clients while preparing to give workshops on music yoga and spiritual integration. She hopes to eventually also teach at Jate Yoga in Rowayton where Jennifer Buckman, her yoga mentor, is opening a studio in September. Nisenson says her workshops are going to help teach people how to find their individual voice and human truth through the mechanisms of breath, music and yoga.

“Yoga and music are the gateway to freedom. I will continue to use my voice to reach the masses and spread the word of love and truth around the world,” she says. “In the short time I have been doing this work, I have witnessed miracles in myself and others and seen peoples’ lives change with self-love and confidence.”

To connect with Amanda Nisenson, email AKNisenson@gmail.com or visit her Instagram @AmandarnitMusic.

Gloria Owens is a co-owner of the Bethel-based YogaSpace studio. A graphic designer, visionary artist, spiritual guide and joyful mover and shaker, Owens is also a Kripalu Yoga teacher who has been leading classes and workshops for more than two decades.

Connect at YogaSpace-CT.com.

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Yoga is an art and science of living. ~Indra Devi

fitbody

Relax and Unwind Restorative Yoga Poses Foster Healing

by Meredith Montgomery

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n classical yoga, teachers often sequence instruction toward reaching a pinnacle pose such as an inversion or arm balance. In restorative yoga, the peak pose is savasana—in which the practitioner fully relaxes while resting flat on their back. Leeann Carey, author of Restorative Yoga Therapy: The Yapana Way to Self-Care and Well-Being, explains, “This passive asana practice turns down the branch of the nervous system that keeps us in fight-or-flight mode and turns up the system allowing us to rest and digest. It feels like a massage for the nervous system and encourages self-inquiry, reflection and change, rather than perfection.”

The physical, mental and spiritual benefits are similar to those of active yoga, but because poses are held longer and supported by props such as bolsters, blankets, belts and blocks, “There’s no stress on the tissue and joints. Each pose gifts us with longerlasting benefits, including more time for the mind to unwind,” advises Carey.

“Restorative yoga allows both muscles and the brain to recover from fatigue, so we are stronger, sharper and better able to act in the world afterward,” explains Roger Cole, Ph.D., a certified Iyengar yoga teacher in Del Mar, California, and a research scientist studying

the physiology of relaxation, sleep and biological rhythms. He attests that it also serves as preparation for pranayama (mindful yoga breathing) and meditation, which require a clear, well-rested, focused mind.

Perfect for beginners and used by longtime practitioners to complement other yoga styles, restorative poses are designed to accurately realign and reshape the body. They also can be therapeutically tailored to support natural healing for issues related to tension, premenstrual syndrome, weak immune functioning, back pain, pregnancy and recovery for athletes. “Poses for healing may require targeted gentle stretching, but prop use will coax the body into desired positions without requiring muscular effort,” says Cole.

An early student of B.K.S. Iyengar and familiar with props, San Francisco resident and co-founder of Yoga Journal magazine Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D., found herself leading her first class comprised entirely of supported poses during a power blackout at a 1980 workshop. “I didn’t want people walking around in the dark, so I improvised a restorative class and everyone loved it,” she recalls. She revisited the idea several years later when she personally

felt the need for physical, emotional and spiritual restoration.

For a year, 90 percent of her practice was supported poses, and the switch helped her so much that it inspired her first book, Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times. She’s since written more books and trained teachers in restorative yoga around the world.

As in classical yoga, a restorative sequence should be balanced with asanas (positions) from all pose classifications—backbends, twists, inversions and forward bends. It takes time for the body to comfortably settle deeply into a pose—as long as 15 minutes— therefore, a 90-minute restorative class may include only a handful of asanas.

Lasater says, “Most people don’t need more of anything from the culture in which we live. They need much more to learn to be still and at ease.”

In today’s yoga world, which seems to emphasize power and action, “Restorative yoga has become imperative to balance activity and ambition with stillness and being,” she continues. Lasater notes that while many classes are reducing savasana to as little as three minutes, students need 20 minutes.

Carey clarifies that because this approach focuses on opening and letting go, rather than striving for the biggest stretch, “Sensation-seeking yogis may need to shift their perspective. The biggest challenge is often quieting the mind while the body is still. When a student is uncomfortable because the mind is screaming, it helps to compare it to having tight hamstrings in an active class. We’re not chasing relaxation; just breathe, feel and watch,” she says.

“Eventually, everything will let go.”

“The more our mind rebels against relaxing, the more we need it,” observes Lasater. Students often turn to yoga as a strategy for feeling whole, and she suggests that one of the best ways to find clarity within is to listen in stillness, one savasana at a time. “It’s a gift to ourself, our family and the world,” she adds. “When we feel rested, we’re more compassionate and ready to serve the greater good.”

Meredith Montgomery, a registered yoga teacher, publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

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practitionerprofiles Bramasolé Fitness and Wellness Center Elizabeth D. Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 Info@BramasoleWellness.com BramasoleWellness.com Studio summary and/or services offered: Bramasolé Fitness and Wellness Center, located in the beautiful hills of Litchfield County, offers Diverse yoga classes, private Yoga sessions, workshops/classes and healing services (aromatouch, reflexology, Reiki, meditation).

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

Elizabeth Aleksinas, yoga teacher, Reiki master healer, reflexologist, mindfulness meditation teacher, and owner of Bramasolé, has been teaching Yoga for over 20 years and has a unique and holistic approach to yoga and healing.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Personal fitness trainer, yoga instructor, Sun Style Tai Chi teacher, reflexologist, Reiki master teacher, mindfulness meditation teacher, movement therapy for special needs population.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

You can always expect to learn, to be empowered and to feel amazing! Taking my fitness and wellness business on the road helps me to get out and meet and help more people.

I have expanded my education so I can help more people become healthier and balanced.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

We look forward to welcoming you to Bramasolé and guiding you on a journey to connect body, mind and spirit. Visit our website to see a listing of all our services, classes and offerings.

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Light of Eternal Love LLC Deanne Mincer 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield DMinc100@aol.com DeanneMincer.com Studio summary and/or services offered: Are you hoping to deeply love and accept yourself in all circumstances? My yoga and other teachings are grounded in the steadfast belief that you are the light of eternal love.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

Having practiced yoga and meditation for 45 years, I became certified in yoga over 25 years ago and teach meditation, yoga nidra (with my own CD) and yoga sutras.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I have extensive experience as a yoga/spiritual guide, studied healing with Dr. Henry Grayson, facilitate A Course in Miracles study groups, and authored the book The 52: Discovering the True You in 52 Simple Lessons.

What is your work setting?

My private studio setting features carpeted, heated floors for your comfort. I also teach other spiritual classes and workshops here, in addition to various other locations in Connecticut and New York.

What is your particular specialty?

Blending many teachings, join me on an adventure into your own inner being, into the place where you feel loved, nurtured and safe. I will lovingly guide you.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

Fall brings new offerings, including Baby Boomer and Beyond Yoga, a new ACIM study group, Exploring the Afterlife Book Club, a unique yoga nidra experience, and an exclusive The Spirit of Contemporary Art tour.

LifePath Yoga & Wellness Nina Antolino, Owner 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-354-7070 Nina@LifePathYoga.net LifePathYoga.net Studio summary and/or services offered: LifePath Yoga & Wellness is a center for mindfulness, empowerment and transformation. Classes, workshops and healing arts services include mindfulness meditation, yoga, Reiki, life coaching, women’s wellness/empowerment, holistic education, corporate wellness and creative arts.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

After years of a fast-paced career, a chronic illness forced me to take medical leave and search for a way to heal my body naturally. It led me to my 200-hour interdisciplinary yoga teacher training in September 2000. I quit my corporate career, became a yoga instructor and then integrated other holistic modalities into my work including mindfulness, Reiki and life coaching.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Nina Antolino, RYT, RMT, MBA, is a certified yoga instructor, mindfulness meditation practitioner, certified empowerment life coach, Reiki master, Girl’s Circle facilitator, corporate trainer, strategic learning and development consultant.

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

I am excited to offer an intimate and inspiring studio space. I also teach yoga and mindfulness meditation in corporate settings, privately in homes, at the beach and other places.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

I encourage each student to accept and listen to their body but also challenge themselves to reach for new possibilities. I incorporate inspirational readings to help students open their hearts as well as their bodies and mind. My interdisciplinary teaching draws from various traditions including Vinyasa, Kripalu, Iyengar, Yin and Viniyoga.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

Upcoming trainings include Reiki level 1 and 2 training, mindfulness meditation training and a mini retreat. Two fall workshops are balancing your chakras and women’s empowerment. Special events being offered include an intro to yoga 4-week signature series, yoga series for kids, prenatal yoga series and a YinYasa and meditation.

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practitionerprofiles YogaSpace

InnerSpaces by Karen

Gloria Owens 78 Stony Hill Rd. (Rt 6), Bethel 203-730-YOGA (9642) Gloria@YogaSpace-CT.com YogaSpace-CT.com

11 Nettleton Ave, Newtown 203-470-6969 KarenJPierce@earthlink.net InnerSpacesbyKaren.com

Studio summary and/or services offered: YogaSpace offers beginner and intermediate yoga classes in our beautiful, serene studio. We believe yoga is not a one-size-fitsall proposition, so we offer many styles, approaches and levels.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

The stress of a New York City job and a shoulder injury led me to explore yoga in the late 1980s, and become a teacher in 1994. I’ve now been blessed to teach for over two decades.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I am a certified 200+ Kripalu yoga teacher, restorative yoga and SUP yoga, along with various trainings in chakra healing, YogaDance, The AromaTouch Technique and more.

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

YogaSpace has been my home base since 2001 for group classes and workshops. I also offer private sessions and healings (your place or mine) plus stand-up paddleboard yoga on the lake.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

I teach “real yoga for real bodies” and love seeing students transform through the practice! I specialize in creative yoga for ages 40+ with inspirational gentle, balanced and restorative classes, plus combining yoga with essential oils.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

October 22, 2:30-4:30pm - Essential Yoga: Exploring the Sensory Power of Yoga & Essential Oils. November 1, 3-5pm Restorative Yoga: Unwind from the Grind.

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natural awakenings

Studio summary and/or services offered: Karen Pierce is a yoga teacher, energy worker and professional organizer. She combines clearing spaces and energy with clutter therapy and yoga therapy to assist in the release of tension in the body and trauma in the energy field.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

Pierce was introduced to meditation as a teen and has continued to deepen her practice over nearly three decades.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Pierce is a 500 e-RYT yoga teacher, integrative yoga therapist, certified YogaEd instructor and NAPO professional organizer.

She has also received sacred rites through a lineage of light carriers and Q’ero elders.

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

She teaches at several local yoga studios as well as sees clients one-on-one in her home or her client’s home.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

Adapting yoga to the unique needs of each individual, whether that’s movement, breathing, meditation or philosophy.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

Pierce will be holding a six-week InnerQuest workshop beginning October 26 from 7-9pm. This course focuses on creating health and harmony using tools that activate your self-healing abilities, such as working with the body’s energy centers, muscle testing, yoga nidra and more.

The Yoga Shala

SEPT

Valerie Schneiderman 49 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield 203-544-8811 Info@TheYogaShalaCT.com TheYogaShalaCT.com Studio summary and/or services offered: The shala is a community of teachers and students dedicated to Ashtanga yoga in the tradition of Sri K Pattabhi Jois. Our classes are offered daily to students of all levels.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

In 1994, I was fortunate to be introduced to the Ashtanga method by master teacher Tim Miller in Encinitas, California.

After moving from California to Connecticut in 2000, I began to share this practice locally with friends and neighbors.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Over the past 22 years, I have practiced with many internationally recognized teachers, including studying directly with the Jois family in Mysore, India, on a number of occasions. I hold an ERYT 500 classification through Yoga Alliance.

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Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

The Yoga Shala opened in 2003 as a public space offering guided and Mysore-style Ashtanga practice, youth yoga classes, meditation instruction and Ayurvedic services.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

By far my favorite method of teaching (unique to Ashtanga tradition) is the Mysore-style practice. In Mysore-style, each student is taught the traditional practice at their own pace.

Within a longer class format (up to 3 hours), the teacher is present and a student’s practice time varies from 45 minutes to over 1.5 hours, depending on their experience. People always wonder if they need to “know anything” before starting a practice, but the beauty of it is that they don’t…we teach them, step by step. In addition to the Mysore style, we offer guided classes daily.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

Every year the shala welcomes master teachers from around the world in special workshops and events and Val leads a 200-hour, Yoga Alliance recognized teacher training program bi-annually. This fall join us for a weekend meditation workshop with renowned teacher, Lorin Roche (author of The Radiance Sutras). The most current information on our classes and special programs is always available on our website.

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September 2016

41

practitionerprofiles Naam Yoga Connecticut, LLC

WholeFIT

Linda Fiske, Owner 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel 203-730-2400 Info@NaamYogaCT.com NaamYogaCT.com

Seana Hart, Holistic Lifestyle Coach, CHEK Practitioner 3 Route 39, #5, New Fairfield 203-885-0577 WholeFITnf@gmail.com WholeFITnf.com

Studio summary and/or services offered: Yoga, meditation, healing services, workshops, retail and room rental.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing: I began transcendental meditation (TM) in high school, and then yoga in my 20s. I’ve been on a spiritual path for over 40 years with exposure to various disciplines and traditions.

What trainings or certifications do you have: Certifications in Naam yoga (Levels 1, 2, 3); Shakti Naam; Harmonyum Healing System (Levels I, II, III); Kundalini Yoga (as taught by Yogi Bhajan); Reiki (master level); and Minister of Spiritual Science. Trainings in yoga therapies, Advanced Harmonyum and Universal Kabbalah (ongoing).

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary: The studio offers classes and services in a variety of styles.

In-house or off-site private sessions and/or consultations are available.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

Pranayam, mantra meditation, addiction recovery; youth and senior practices; Divine Spiritual Wisdom (Universal Kabbalah).

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

Moon Celebrations on the new and full moons; Healing Circle the first Wednesday of each month; Restorative Yoga with Tibetan Bowls the first Sunday of each month; and workshops in Universal Kabbalah.

What happens is not as important as how you react to what happens. ~Ellen Glasgow 42

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Studio summary and/or services offered: WholeFIT is an intimate, boutique holistic fitness center offering yoga, barre pilates, chakra meditations and specialty workshops, like AcroYoga and special seminars.

Services such as holistic coaching, and postural and core assessments are also offered.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

As a holistic lifestyle coach and personal trainer, I believe in the value of yoga, stretching, meditation, and a calmer, gentler way to get in movement for many people who have so many stressors in their lives. I opened WholeFIT with the vision of allowing my clients who train with heavy weights to get yoga into their weekly regimen as a complement to their training. Our instructors are all certified and offer a variety of styles and knowledge to help our clients in their own practice of yoga.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Barre pilates and mat pilates were added as a way to help people with additional core strength and spinal issues. The goal is to allow clients to be able to choose from a variety of classes that will help their physical bodies based on individual needs and the mental and emotional components they need.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

We are happy to announce the addition of a new class known as ELDOA. It is a very specialized class that includes myofascial stretches and complex techniques that require strong attention to form and correct progressions. The benefits include reduced joint inflammation, normalized disc bulges, reduced degrees of scoliosis, relief of chronic neck and back pain, and increased disc hydration. WholeFIT will also offer teacher training this fall.

The Jiiva Center

Yoga Teachers Association

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 Support@JiivaCenter.com JiivaCenter.com

Workshops held at the yoga studio at Club Fit, Briarcliff Manor, NY 914-582-7816 YTAPresident@gmail.com YTAYoga.com

Studio summary and/or services offered: We are a full service yoga and healing facility offering seven days of yoga, massage, Reiki healing, counseling and an amazing array of workshops.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

Owner Berta Prevosti’s dream was to create a space where healing on all levels was possible through education of the body, mind and soul.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Prevosti is trained as an Usui and Karuna Reiki master for over 25 years and 500-hour trained in Hatha and Ashtanga yoga. She is certified in many other healing modalities.

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

We have a beautiful spacious yoga studio and healing environment. All are welcome.

What is your particular specialty or favorite aspect of teaching yoga?

We at Jiiva pride ourselves in the ability to teach all levels from beginner to advanced and watching our clients grow mentally, physically and spiritually Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

We have unique workshops throughout the month of September as well as Reiki training. We are looking forward to your first yoga retreat in Vermont in November. More info online at JiivaCenter.com.

Studio summary and/or services offered: Yoga Teachers Association (YTA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides affordable continuing education to yoga teachers and students in the tri-state area. We offer monthly workshops led by nationally recognized and accomplished local instructors.

What initially led you to a yogic path/how long have you been practicing?

The YTA was established in 1979.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Teachers receive three CEUs per workshop and can complete their CE requirement in just one year with the YTA. We also offer complimentary membership to current yoga teacher trainees.

Do you work in a studio setting, in clients’ home or does it vary?

Workshops take place Saturdays from 1:30 to 4:30pm at Club Fit in Briarcliff Manor, NY, and are $45 for members and $55 for nonmembers in advance. Membership is $50 annually and is open to teachers, studio owners and individual practitioners. Members receive $20 off each workshop, a monthly newsletter, and access to our new Yoga Teacher Triad program and YTA Yoga Talks series.

Do you have any teacher trainings or special workshops coming up that you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about?

On September 10, we are hosting a trauma-informed yoga workshop with Anneke Lucas, followed by our season-opening Prana Party. Upcoming topics include hand-crafted yoga with Al Bingham, the chakras and healing with Shari Friedrichsen, and the power of the breath with Daniel Orlansky.

Yoga is a way to freedom.

By its constant practice, we can free ourselves from fear, anguish and loneliness. ~Indra Devi eNaturalAwakenings.com

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MOVEMENT FOLLOWS BREATH Structural Integration Frees Muscles, Expands Potential

by Mikel Bensend

T

he way you breathe is the way you move through life. A constricted breath can limit you physically, emotionally and psychologically. On the other hand, the expansive breath can open up the world to you.

If you can’t gain a full breath, you can’t exert yourself physically as well as you would like. You may tend to lock your breath into places that don’t support the freedom to expand; you also may find it difficult to expand past those limitations you’ve created. In stressful periods, do you constrict your breath? If so, you may find it hard to move, respond to those challenges, feel inspired or find inspiration in your life.

Few people ever consider how complex the very act of breathing is and how many parts of the body are actually involved. The diaphragm pulls down, creating a negative pressure en44

Fairfield County Edition

vironment inside the rib basket to draw air into the lungs. For physical exertion requiring more oxygen, you have muscles in the shoulders, neck, lower torso, and between the ribs to create a more dynamic and forced breath. Like muscles performing any other function, the muscles involved in breathing may become limited in function when not used properly.

How do these limitations really feel?

Try this exploration: Stand comfortably and observe your breath at rest. Do you breathe more into your front or back, left or right side, upper torso or lower torso? Can you feel all of the ribs move when you breathe or are there places that seem to be “asleep”? Every area that you don’t gently expand is or can become an area of restriction. Without

natural awakenings

your conscious awareness, these areas begin to limit your ability to breathe fully and deeply. The lack of mobility in these areas also restricts your ability to twist, bend and flex. It comes back to the fact that if muscles aren’t used, they begin to atrophy and become unable to perform their optimal function.

The more a restricted pattern is present, the greater the effect on the entire body. Average resting rate for adults is 14-18 breaths per minute. A resting rate of 14 breaths per minute is over 20,000 breaths per day, and that’s not including an increased rate due to walking, climbing stairs, exercising and other movement. Restrictions in your breathing create limitations throughout the body. By freeing up the ability to breathe fully and comfortably, you give the body the support to open restrictions in all areas, the oxygen to assimilate the change in the tissues, and the energy to take advantage of this new freedom.

Like muscles performing any other function, the muscles involved in breathing may become limited in function when not used properly.

Rolfing or structural integration is ultimately about removing restrictions to movement and function, allowing your body to find freedom and balance.

Goals for your first session in a Rolfing series include opening up structures to expand your ability to breathe so that you can assimilate more oxygen in preparation for the future changes.

Because of the new freedom of breathing and the openness of the related structures, you gain increased mobility and flexibility with that first session and set the stage for all future sessions.

Mikel Bensend is a certified advanced Rolfer and principal at Westport Rolfing, with offices in Westport and Fairfield.

Connect with him at 203-216-9770, Mikel@WestportRolfing.com or WestportRolfing.com. See ad, page 17.

inspiration

COMING IN OCTOBER

The Secret of Sublime Living Savoring Perfect Present Moments

by Carl Greer

L

ife has many sublime pleasures: watching the sun rise over the horizon and observing the changing colors of the clouds; laughing with a best friend; or simply feeling the grass, dirt or sand under bare feet. The Japanese have a term, mono no aware, for that sublime moment of perfection just before it fades. Sometimes it translates as sensitivity or awareness of impermanent things. It could, for instance, refer to the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom; the cherry trees will blossom again next year, but we do not always have a chance to see them again. Everyday distractions can cause us to forget to slow down to enjoy moments.

The secret to sublime living is to pay close attention to the sweet pleasures of life, no matter how small, and savor them before they pass. There is no way to know which weather-perfect day will be the last before the season shifts.

Enjoying such a fleeting, sublime moment may mean discarding the day’s plans, but the delights of life do not always come around again.

How easy it is to let the mind wander and forget to focus on the pleasure of an experience and the joys that life offers. We’re in danger of missing out on sublime living when we constantly prioritize what “has to be done” instead of that which is most valued. Soon, it may seem as if the stories of our lives are being written by someone else.

We forget our power to be our own storyteller and to mindfully engage in how we spend every hour. Dissatisfying tales can be replaced when we live according to a new story we write each day, called, “My life is an extraordinary adventure,” or “I relish being with my children,” or “I express love through sharing my music,” or “I am being true to myself, and that enables me to help others heal.”

The more we focus on what brings us happiness, revitalization, purpose or meaning, the easier it will be to upgrade priorities and discard any plot lines and events that seem scripted by someone else. We can then make a new commitment to writing and living a more satisfying story for ourselves. We can pause to contemplate our power to be the storyteller and to always remain fully present and conscious of the sublime moments.

Carl Greer, Ph.D., Psy.D., is a practicing clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. He teaches at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and is on staff at the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Connect at CarlGreer.com.

Community Game Changers plus … Conscious Transitioning and Modern Shamanism There is never a better time to be the change you want to see in the world!

If you offer a product or service that is game-changing for your clients, the community or the world, be a part of our October issue and tell our interested readers all about it!

Expand your mind, explore horizons… join us…

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petbriefs Puttin’ On The Dog Returns to Greenwich

A The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

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

203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com 46

Fairfield County Edition

dopt-A-Dog’s Puttin’ On the Dog & Cats Too festival returns to Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich on September 18 from 10am-4:30pm.

This will be their 29th annual dog and fun festival. This festival doubles as a fundraiser for Adopt-A-Dog and an adoption event for multiple shelters in the surrounding area. Puttin’ On the Dog & Cats Too will include music, vendors, demonstrations, competitions and activities for dogs and pet lovers.

This year, Pet Pantry Warehouse is returning as the presenting sponsor for event. “We’ve been involved for a long time and I believe we took over as the major sponsor about five years ago,” says Executive Vice President Adam Jacobson.

“We always aspire to be better corporate citizens in our communities [and this] allows us to do that.”

Tickets for the event can be purchased online or at the event. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for seniors and kids 13-18, and $25 for the family package (two adults, up to four children). Children under 12 with adults are free.

Participants can also sign up their dogs for competition classes. The schedule is as follows: • 11am - Aged to Perfection for dogs 10 years or older and Puppy Love for puppies under 1 year • Noon - Mixed with the Most for any mixed breed dog and Pick of the Litter for any purebred dog • 1pm - Mighty Mites for dogs 15 lbs or less and over 1 year as well as Biggest Lap Dog for dogs over 75 lbs willing to climb in your lap and remain for one minute • 2pm - Adopt-A-Dog Alumni for dogs who have found a home as a direct result of Adopt-A-Dog and Mirror Mirror for dogs and owners that look alike • 3pm - Who Saved Who for dogs and owners who saved each other and Pooch Who Can Smooch for the best kisser • 4pm - Best Tail Wagger and Puttin’ On The Dog Costume Contest for Adopt-ADog’s famous costume class To find out more information, register your dog for a class, volunteer, become a vendor and sign on to sponsor the event, visit Adopt-a-Dog.org/Puttin-on-the-Dog.

Remembering Our Animal Family Members

T

he 3rd Annual National Pet Memorial Day will bring the community together in Sherman to commemorate the beloved animals that have deeply touched your hearts. The September 11 event, taking place from 5:30-7pm rain or shine, will feature live music by Bob O’Connor, Pet Communicator Melissa Merendino, a canine service dog honoring, and a candle meditation with Andrea Laubstein. A memorial wall will be featured where you can post photos.

Food donations will be accepted at the event for local animal shelters. A wish balloon can be purchased with a $25 donation to the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB.org).

Attendees are respectfully asked to leave their pets at home.

For event updates, visit Creature Comforts Mobile Veterinary Clinic on Facebook.

For more information, contact Dr. Dale Krier at 860 355 0247 or on Facebook.

Location: Sherman Town Beach Pavilion off Sawmill Rd, Sherman.

natural awakenings

naturalpet

by our patterns of thought and definitions. The information is being sent out and is there for us to receive. Once we are willing to accept the concept of telepathic communication, then understanding how we may receive information from our animals is the next step.

What are the Clair Senses?

HOW WE HEAR OUR ANIMALS: The Clair Senses

W

by Gwen Gangi

e are not our bodies; we are spiritual beings having a physical experience. Envision our bodies as a frame, supporting and housing a priceless work of art. The frame is beautiful, but once it’s empty, it is still just the frame. It is not the perfect work of art that it once housed. So if we are not our bodies, then where do we go in order to find ourselves? We go inside; we consciously connect with our minds. Not all the sundry thoughts that are swirling around, but the centered thought that, when allowed, can block out all that noise in our heads.

This mind, this centered thought, we come to realize is the priceless work of art. Although it is currently housed in a beautiful frame, it is not limited by it.

Our bodies were created for communication. We use our voices, hands, faces, legs and whole bodies to communicate what is needed. Although our minds can use our bodies for their own purpose, it does not have to be limited by the level of communication our bodies provide. Our minds are meant for expansion. Communicating this way brings things together; it joins rather than separates. We can connect to others this way. It’s actually how we communicate and put meaning behind the words. This is how telepathy works. We are sending and receiving information from each other and our animals all the time. Our animals are so adept at it that they display their telepathic abilities on an ongoing basis. They are not limited

Final Journey,

We receive telepathic information through our “clair senses”. This is a collective phrase that refers to all types of psychic sensitivity corresponding to our physical senses: seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, tasting and touching.

We have access to all of these types of communication, but often we tend to gravitate toward our most natural means of communication.

CLAIRVOYANCE (clear seeing) means we receive the information in pictures or visual mental images in our minds’ “eye”. These pictures can be a quick single snapshot or a little scene as if it is a small movie. Sometimes the image that comes to mind can be symbolic—such as a red light—and sometimes we can see an actual image of what the animal is seeing, or wants us to see. Often we intuitively understand what the images mean, but if that is not the case, ask for clarification. Clairvoyants receive extrasensory impressions and symbols in the form of “inner sight”, without the aid of physical eyes.

Although long visual impressions are often easier to receive when we are meditating, quick snapshots can be obtained at any time, even if we are presently thinking about something else.

This is actually a good way to know that the image we just saw in our minds didn’t come from our own, because we simply weren’t thinking about it.

CLAIRAUDIENCE, (clear hearing) is the perception of sounds or words that

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Animal Communicator and Pet Sitter Animal Communication Consultations available by Classes Available phone, in person or at your home. Can work with a Call 203-610-2444 picture, or with your pet. for more information

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September 2016

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are broadcast without audible sound. In the case of animal communication, it is understanding what an animal’s vocalizations mean. The voice that we hear may sound like our own inner voice, or it may sound like something different. It may come from within our minds, or within our bodies, or it may sound like it comes from outside our bodies all together. If it sounds like a faint voice, feel free to ask them to speak up. Or it may be clear as a bell. We have most likely been taught that “hearing voices” is a sign of insanity. But that is just another distraction of our “ego” voice, telling us that we can’t actually be doing this. That what we know in our hearts to be true is somehow wrong or false. Remember, the act of communicating joins us with another being, and to the ego this is its demise.

CLARSENTIENCE is to perceive information by a “feeling” within the whole body without outer stimuli related to the feeling. It includes several other clair senses within its scope.

Sometimes called clairempathy, or clear emotion, an empath can feel the emotional experience of a being. It is a type of telepathy where we feel or sense within ourselves the attitude, emotion or ailment of another being. Empaths are very sensitive to each being’s personal vibration. Clairsentients get guidance through bodily sensations, such as pain in a certain joint, or stomach pain that can be as specific as before or after a meal. It can be a tightening of the jaw and spine that senses an awareness of danger.

Because each of our five senses has a corresponding spiritual sense, clairsentients receive information through a sense of smell (clairscent), taste (clairgustance) and touch (clairtangency). They receive many gut feelings and hunches. Much of our intuition comes from the stomach region, and the stomach clenches, relaxes or flutters according to the information we receive.

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natural awakenings

CLAIRCOGNIZANCE, or clear knowing, is the fourth means of telepathic communication. As Doreen Virtue defines it, “Claircognizants know without knowing how they know.

As a result you may question the validity of your knowing.

This is a mistake.” Information enters the mind in a big block of knowing. Our job is to then sort through the block and put it into human language. It is frequently detailed and accurate information. And often in the process of sorting it all out, we miss bits and pieces. Ask for the information again. As we sort, put into language and review, we take the whole block and make sense and meaning of it. This is not uncommon in animal communication; since animals perceive things differently than we do, we often get blocks of information.

Just as with the physical senses, each of us has access to these clair senses. With practice and a willingness to learn, we can become adept at receiving information with our clair senses and deepen our connection and understanding of the beings around us.

Gwen Gangi, an animal communicator all her life, began studying animal communication in 1993. Living in Monroe, Gangi also owns a local pet sitting business. Connect at FurToFeathers.com, FurToFeathersPets@gmail.com or 203-610-2444. See ad, page 47.

Gangi is offering two animal communication classes this fall through Trumbull Continuing Education, including Introduction to Animal Communication on September 28 (7-9pm). The Animal Communication Intensive Workshop on November 7-9 (7-9:30pm) is limited to 16 participants. For more information, contact Gangi or visit TrumbullContEd.org.

DE-STRESSING A MOVE FOR OUR PETS

by Mary Oquendo

A

Routine is important so try to keep their schedule normal as much as possible. Grounding also helps to keep them centered; spend time outside with paws on the earth rather than pavement.

Crystals such as red jasper, hematite, black obsidian and pyrite offer protection and grounding properties. Keep them close by in a “mojo” bag, but out of reach to prevent choking. Essential oils such as lavender or chamomile diffused in the air with a water-base diffuser can help. Do not do this if there are birds or cats with respiratory issues.

Treat pets to relaxing energetic work, such as Reiki or Therapeutic Touch. Also clear the home of accumulated negative energy. There are many ways to do this ourselves, including smudging with palo santo or sage, or opening the windows and doors (secure the pets first) and using a set of tingsha bells to move the energy outside. Using a space-clearing spray and then filling the house back up with music after the house is cleared can change the vibe as well.

While moving can be as stressful on our pets as it is on ourselves, there is an endpoint. The time we take to reduce the stress levels of our pets during the process will make the move an easier transition for the whole family.

ccording to the Employee Relogerously affect sugar levels. Stress in cation Council, the only things pets has been linked to hemorrhagic more stressful than moving are gastroenteritis. the death of a loved one and divorce.

• Engaging in bad behaviors: This can Searching for pet-friendly housing include marking and acting out or remakes the process even more nervefusing to participate in normal routine. wracking for humans. It all begs the • Increased risk of flight: Flight is a fear question: how does the experience of response. Secure doors and windows to moving affect our pets? ensure their safety.

On a very basic level, the higher levels of household activity, such as What can you do to reduce packing, getting rid of possessions, your pet’s stress?

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced arguments and strange people in the Prep Work •• Sanding Sanding Taping Involve pets in the move by playPrep Work •• Taping crystal master and certified master pet tech home change the normal home enviPatching •• Repairs Repairs •• Carpentry Carpentry Patching ing with them while packing, visiting Environmentally Friendly Friendly pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Environmentally ronment for our animals. When we are the new home with them, and taking Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be stressed, angry or frustrated, our bodies breaks from the work involved for some reached at HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See produce hormones such as cortisol, special one-on-one time with them. ad, page 15. epinephrine and norepinephrine. These have a distinct odor undetectable us Call Philto Today! with our six million olfactory receptor We will Gladly Provide We will Gladly Provide References cells, but our pets recognize the smell References CT Lic. Lic. 55081C 55081C CT as problematic using their more than Fully Insured Insured Fully 300 million cells.

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communityspotlight

Music to Their Ears?

Companion Animals Soothed by Different Sounds

by Nicole Miale

F

changed the direction or decades, many of my life passion towell-meaning pet ward the understandowners have turned ing of how animals on radios, televisions hear and why music and other devices to has such a profound provide background effect,” she says. noise when an animal was to be left alone for Sound as a Stress long periods of time. The Trigger usual motivating factor Dogs, cats and horses was concern for the animal and the belief that hear frequency ranges voices, music and other both much higher Janet and Rigby auditory input would be and much lower than soothing or comforting to the pets when humans are capable of hearing. This is their humans couldn’t be with them. not news; it has been known for some Ground-breaking research into animal time. What is new, however, is the unresponses to sound has shown this to be derstanding about how the sounds they an area where humans imposed their hear impact the animals. own needs onto animals; what is soothHumans have aural perspective, ing or comforting to us is not the same meaning we hear in a 360-degree circle—the height and depth of all the for our furred and feathered friends. That same research is offering alternatives, de- sounds. We aurally perceive the rustling of leaves in the trees, a breeze rushing signed to appeal to and meet the distinct past our ears, birds chirping nearby auditory needs of various species. and, in contrast, the quiet of stillness.

“We are learning how complex aniWe are able to identify sounds as they mals truly are,” explains Janet Marlow, sound behaviorist, internationally known occur and our reactions to these sounds are appropriate based on how we idencomposer and founder of Washington tify the sound source in the perspective Depot-based Pet Acoustics Inc. Because of our environment. animals’ hearing is so acute, it is their

In contrast, dog, cat and horse most important sense and has the most hearing is much more acute but lacking profound effect on a pet’s life experithe same kind of spatial localization as ence, Marlow says. She was awakened humans, known as psychoacoustic juxto this connection when her cat Osborn taposition. This causes animals to react was dying in to the sound source without being able the ICU of the veterinary to analyze what it is—this phenomenon hospital; she also occurs in people who suffer from went every post-traumatic stress. day to sing

As our pets live in non-nature to him. “The environments for the most part, their experience instinctive reactions to extreme sounds of being often manifests as behavioral responses with Osborn such as stress, anxiety or aggression.

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A dog, cat or horse will hear shots or jarring sounds at loud unexpected volumes at a greater intensity than humans. Sound is a profound stress trigger for animals. Anyone who has witnessed a terrified dog during a fireworks show or thunderstorm has observed this reaction. Since they lack any context for the loud, threatening noise they are hearing, they seek to flee or fight, depending on the animal and situation.

“All animals are seeking balance,” Marlow explains. “Tone, frequency and vibration are the auditory triggers an animal uses to know if their environment is safe or not. We can listen to high energy music and think it’s great, but it’s probably not having the same effect on the animals in your house.”

Marlow, a life-long musician raised by parents who were also world-class musicians, describes music as the core of her being and understanding of life. The research and resulting years of work that led to formation of her company, Pet Acoustics, were born of the deep passion she has for both music and animals. Since 2003, she has been observing and clinically testing the results of music in easy-to-use products to calm dogs, cats and horses.

Understanding that sound was a trigger for intense stress in animals was a revelation to Marlow; she committed to determining what qualities in music would guarantee positive, calming results for each species. She gathered university studies and research about animals, worked with various organizations to develop and execute clinical trials, and obtained vet approvals for her work along the way.

Marlow continues to develop sonic-modifying products and music where the frequency and decibel levels achieve the best desired effect in the particular animal. She has learned that dogs and cats respond positively to long-sustained tones and non-jarring volumes for states of rest, eliminating high frequency content. Horses, in contrast, prefer an alto range and shorter, melodic phrases with rhythmic patterns (reminiscent of their own hoofbeats). She never inserts percussion or the human voice in her compositions, relying instead on instruments such as guitar, harp, violin and flute, among others.

In 2014, after years of research and testing, Pet Acoustics released a series of products called Pet Tunes, which are Bluetooth speakers preloaded with special frequency modified music for dogs, cats, horses and birds. The speakers are helping pet owners, veterinarians, groomers, shelters and kennels make a positive difference in pets’ lives. A newer product is a calming collar that has speakers built directly into a collar for ease of use and immediacy during thunderstorms, fireworks and noise phobias. The product results are repeatable and calm pets within five minutes of listening, Marlow says.

Dale Krier of Creature Comforts mobile veterinary service in Sherman has this to say about Pet Acoustics: “Pet Tunes has changed how I practice veterinary medicine. I incorporate the music in every aspect of what I do. I try music first and drugs second to help deal with pets’ anxiety issues.”

Being able to bring science-based music to animals was, and still is, a new field. Marlow continues to work to raise awareness through workshops, books and television appearances while closer to home, she recently donated 200 units to Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue to ease the stress of the shelter animals. She envisions a world where the understanding of easing the stress of animals and reducing behavioral issues can be natural and highly effective through development of the correct sonic environment.

“The more we understand about our pets, the more we can know ourselves,” Marlow says. “Follow the trail of the animal into the human heart and you will find a better world.”

Janet Marlow is available for workshops and private sessions on pet stress behavior. Connect with her at JanetMarlow@PetAcoustics.com.

Pet Tunes and the new Ultra Calmer Canine Stress Relief Sonic Collar are available online at Amazon.com. For more information, call 860-459-8000 or visit PetAcoustics.com.

Nicole Miale is publisher and executive editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County.

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

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION/ PET SITTING GWEN GANGI

Fur to Feathers Pet Services Monroe 203-610-2444 (call or text) FurToFeathers.com FurtoFeathersPets@gmail.com Gwen Gangi has been an animal communicator all her life and has been doing consultations for the past 23 years. Practical for any situation, you enter into a 3-way conversation to get and give information needed.

Consultations done over the phone or in person, including home visits.Workshops on animal communication available. See ad, page 47.

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LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield, CT LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) • TailsOfCourage.org

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 during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 48.

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

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communityspotlight

A Conversation with Noreen Ehrlich

Former Financial Executive Helps Professionals Find Personal Success

W

hat does it take for you to attract and maintain genuine love? How do you close the gap between your vision of an ideal partner and being truly available to get into a happy, fulfilling relationship with that partner when he or she appears?

These questions perplexed Noreen Ehrlich for years, as she traveled the globe working in Manhattan’s competitive private equity industry. She often felt powerless to heal her romantic relationships despite her desire for authentic connection with her spouse and commitment to repair. Ehrlich is a Wall Street CFO turned love and relationship expert who lives in Greenwich with her Yellow Labrador, Boozer, and rides her Harley through the Westchester backcountry in her

free time. She talked with Natural Awakenings Fairfield County about her new offering and how it might help successful but disillusioned professionals in their efforts to shift familiar, outdated patterns so they can achieve healthy, happy relationships.

Before you founded Dreamtown, you spent years in Manhattan’s real estate private equity industry and also spent time working and living in Japan, India’s Bollywood and California’s Hollywood. What led you back to Greenwich to focus on a very different kind of work?

As a single woman, I was astonished by the apparent collective longing for connection paired too often with the inability of the prospective partners to

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handle real intimacy or commitment. I also saw that I was repeating the same painful patterns that sabotaged my own previous relationships. I just didn’t get it. So I began to investigate. My search led me to study life and love philosophies—both old and cutting-edge— and, ultimately, to pursue a love and relationship coaching certification that positions me to help others attract and maintain real love.

What does your program offer to those who are seeking happy, healthy relationships?

My business, Dreamtown, offers an eight-week program that shows clients how to set a powerful intention to find and enjoy happy, healthy long-lasting love. It then outlines in clear, specific steps what they can do to make their intention a reality. Think of this as having a personal love life trainer supporting you to attain your best.

Dreamtown’s method guides clients in setting realistic goals, replacing destructive patterns with constructive behaviors, and the steps needed to manifest deep, meaningful connections. By taking charge of actions and responses, clients become open to life’s possibilities and begin to find it fulfilling in every aspect.

When we alter our relationship with ourselves, our external worlds shift accordingly. Dreamtown programs help our clients identify what isn’t working and why, and then supports and directs them toward their ideal life.

Learn more at DreamtownCT.com.

Noreen Ehrlich can be reached at Info@DreamtownCT.com or 475-205-1121. See ad, page 31.

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diagnosis only when all other medical and functional conditions have been ruled out.

Other than classic fibromyalgia, there are three broad categories of these conditions that are most often the cause of widespread pain and fatigue. Unfortunately, the standard treatment approach for classic fibromyalgia will not help patients with the other conditions.

Medical Problems

Frequent Fibromyalgia Misdiagnosis What Else Could it Be?

by David M. Brady

D

octors and patients often use the single word, “fibromyalgia”, to diagnose a complex set of symptoms that can have multiple causes. Medical professionals also often prescribe the same treatment package to all patients they label with fibromyalgia. It is similar to using the term, “back pain”, and prescribing muscle relaxers

Musculoskeletal Problems

to all patients with back pain. Sometimes the one-size-fits-all prescription may help patients get better, but not usually.

More than 60 percent of people who are told they have fibromyalgia have actually received a misdiagnosis and may be suffering from another problem. Fibromyalgia is the correct

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In patients who complain about generalized pain and fatigue, it is imperative that the doctor rule out the presence of any medical condition or disease known to cause many of the symptoms associated with classic fibromyalgia.

Hypothyroidism, anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, Lyme disease, rheumatic autoimmune disorders (such as ankylosing spondylitis or scleroderma), multiple sclerosis, small fiber polyneuropathy and cancer are some possible causes for symptoms of vague and diffused body pain associated with pronounced fatigue. Most of the medical assessments appropriate in this type of situation include conducting a comprehensive medical health history, a quality hands-on physical examination and thorough laboratory testing.

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Widespread pain and fatigue can also be caused by myofascial trigger points, spinal joint problems and pinched nerves. Myofascial pain syndrome— one of the most common reasons for a mistaken diagnosis of classic fibromyalgia—is pain that is arising from several muscles and joints of the body. Widespread pain is often caused by several different painful conditions that, when suffered simultaneously, feel like one painful condition.

This happens quite frequently with senior patients, who often have arthritis in several joints combined with myofascial problems; they come to their doctor with a complaint of widespread pain. Many senior patients have an overlap of general widespread pain from arthritis, but also have one or two localized muscle or joint problems that could respond well to treatment by a physical therapist, chiropractor or massage therapist.

A basic principle of diagnosis can quickly determine if pain is coming from a muscle or joint. Certain movements should reproduce the exact pain if it is coming from a musculoskeletal structure. For example, if the patient has pain between the shoulder blades disseminating from the neck or shoulders, movements of those two areas should cause the pain to get worse. If there is no movement or position that makes the pain worse, the pain may not be coming from a muscle or joint and other sources should be considered.

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Functional or Metabolic Problems Examples of this type of problem include subtle functional hypothyroidism, inefficiency of energy production in the cells of the body due to mitochondrial dysfunction, nutritional insufficiencies (including vitamin D, CoQ10, carnitine, B vitamins, magnesium and others), chemical and food sensitivities, reactions to medications, and other problems with body metabolism and biochemistry.

More subtle functional disorders may represent various types of subclinical disease states and disorders involving dysfunction of internal organs and individual metabolism, rather than true pathology. These functional disorders range the gamut from simple vitamin and mineral insufficiencies, to more hidden functional disorders such as energy metabolism disorders (mitochondrial dysfunction), subtle endocrine imbalances, opportunistic intestinal infections (dysbiosis), blood sugar abnormalities (reactive dysglycemia), post-viral immune suppression and other conditions that are not readily apparent on standard laboratory screening tests.

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INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtable Healing Recipe

Cooking May Be the Future of Medicine In 2010, chronic disease accounted for 86 percent of all healthcare spending; four years later, the cost of treating heart disease alone totaled $315.4 billion, including medication and hospital care.

At the Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine at Tulane University, medical students are learning cooking skills to better advise patients on regaining and maintaining their health through nutrition.

By getting them to approach healthful food preparation with ease and awareness, this next generation of doctors is striving to provide building blocks for long-term health management. “When we see healthier eating, we see more disease prevention and fewer hospital stays, which means less money spent on health care,” says Chef Leah Sarrris, program director.

Since 2012, 20 medical schools have adopted Tulane’s program, including the University of California-Los Angeles Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Illinois-Chicago and University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, in a partnership with the Kendall College School of Culinary Arts.

Students complete eight classes of three hours each, and fourth-year students can choose from seminars that focus on different clinical interests, including nutritional support for those coping with celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, diabetes or pregnancy. Students also teach free public cooking classes. This integrative understanding of health care may change the way the medical system operates.

Source: Yes magazine

Lying Labels

New Term Disguises High-Fructose Corn Syrup

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 56

Fairfield County Edition

The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) has resorted to creating a new label for high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) by calling it “fructose syrup” or just “fructose” because numerous scientific studies have linked it to obesity, Type 2 diabetes and autism.

HFCS is a highly processed chemical sweetener used in many processed foods, including breads, cookies, candy, condiments and soft drinks. It extends the shelf life of products and is often cheaper than sugar, the primary reasons manufacturers use it.

Standard HFCS contains from 42 to 55 percent fructose. The new term is being used when foods contain HFCS-90, which has “just” 90 percent fructose.

Identifying HFCS-90 as an ingredient bizarrely gives food makers a green light to use statements such as “Contains no high-fructose corn syrup” or “No HFCS” on the product label, thus misleading buyers.

Bart Hoebel, a psychology professor at Princeton University, reports, “When rats are drinking high-fructose corn syrup at levels well below those in soda pop, they’re becoming obese; every single one, across the board. Even when rats are fed a high-fat diet, you don’t see this; they don’t all gain extra weight.”

Source: NaturalNews.com natural awakenings

consciouseating

VEGAN LUNCHBOX

Plant-Based Choices Provide Midday Boost

by Judith Fertig

W

e all have good intentions to eat more fruits and vegetables, and it’s easier if we start with just one plant-based meal a day—lunch. Natural Awakenings has enlisted the help of vegan lunchbox experts to help us all enjoy easy-to-make and colorful feasts good for home, office, school and on the road.

“Vegan food offers so much variety, especially at lunch,” says Johanna Sophia, of Pine Plains, New York, who recently hosted the online series The Raw Lunchbox Summit. “A vegan lunch gives an extra boost in the middle of the day for more brain power, clarity and energy.” She and her two children operate Johanna’s Raw Foods, which makes vegan fast food such as veggie burger bites and carrot crackers, available at health food stores.

Laura Theodore, the vegan chef and recording artist who presents The Jazzy Vegetarian PBS television program, lives and works in the New York City area. After a childhood dominated

by bologna sandwiches for lunch, she gradually changed to vegan dishes. “I began to notice a difference when I ate mostly plants,” she says. “I could do more and think better.”

Theodore favors colorful and delicious vegan foods that travel well in a lunchbox with a cold pack, so she can take them to rehearsals or wherever else she goes. She creates her zucchini fettuccine with a vegetable slicer and loves to end a meal with something naturally sweet, like her maple-raisin-date truffles.

Such experimenting in the kitchen led to her newest cookbook, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a Plant-Based Diet.

Brandi Rollins, Ph.D., a researcher at Penn State, in State College, Pennsylvania, found that switching her lunch habits to plant-based dishes made her feel better. The author of Raw Foods on a Budget determined that one of her favorites is a quick raw vegan pizza. She first marinates ingredients for 20 minutes: three medium mushrooms, thinly sliced, with one-and-a-half tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, one tablespoon of olive oil, one minced clove of garlic and a big pinch of Italian herb seasoning. Then she spreads half of a mashed avocado on a four-by-four-inch flax cracker and tops it with the marinated mushrooms, plus chopped tomato, peppers or other favorite options. Rollins advises, “You can pack all of the components individually, and then assemble the pizza at work.”

Health Foods Chef Catherine Blake, in Maui, Hawaii, studied with renowned plant-based nutritional scientist T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D. She urges her culinary students to ask, “What can I do to sparkle a little bit more tomorrow?” The author of Healthy Recipes for Friends, answers the question in her online presentation, Cooking for Brain Power, at Tinyurl.com/ ChefBlakeBrainPower.

Blake’s favorite brain-power luncheon booster is a wrap with antioxidant-rich fillings, accompanied by homemade almond milk, sunflower seeds or walnuts for vitamin E and some favorite blue berries or purple grapes. She makes fresh almond milk by grinding raw almonds in a nut grinder, and then adding them plus an equal amount of filtered water to a high-speed blender. After processing and straining out the solids, the resulting nut milk is perfect for smoothies.

Changing our diets one meal at a time gives us an opportunity to see if we can feel the difference, as our vegan lunchbox experts have, while we ramp up our taste for healthier eating.

Judith Fertig writes award-winning cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS. Connect at JudithFertig.com.

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Photo by David Kaplan

Lots of Garlic Hummus

Zucchini Fettuccine with Fresh Tomato Salsa

Yields: 4 servings Accented with the tangy taste of fresh lemon juice and a bit of heat from the chili powder, this is an easy, readymade sandwich spread for a lunchbox.

1 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed ¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp filtered or spring water, plus more as needed 5 cloves garlic, chopped 2 Tbsp sesame tahini 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice ½ tsp chili powder, plus more for garnish ¼ tsp sea salt Place all the ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Add a bit more water if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Transfer the hummus to a decorated bowl and sprinkle the top with a pinch more chili powder to taste for a festive presentation.

Yields: 4 servings This raw side dish is low in calories, a breeze to prepare and cool fare on a hot summer day. The zucchini strips look and taste a lot like fresh pasta.

2 medium zucchini 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped 10 to 14 leaves fresh basil, minced 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 /8 to ¼ tsp sea salt Freshly ground pepper to taste Shave the zucchini lengthwise with a vegetable peeler to make the “noodles”.

Put them in a large bowl and add the tomatoes, basil, oil and garlic. Toss gently until thoroughly combined.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately.

Recipe by Laura Theodore, The Jazzy Vegetarian

Recipe by Laura Theodore, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a Plant-Based Diet

Photo by David Kaplan

photo by Warren Jefferson

Pack a Plant-Based Lunch

Maple-Raisin-Date Truffles Yields: 10 to 12 truffles These truffles make an inviting healthy dessert or snack to satisfy a sweet tooth. They’ll impress guests at any dinner party.

9 large Medjool dates, pitted 1 /8 cup raisins ¼ cup raw shredded unsweetened dried coconut 1 Tbsp maple syrup 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Line a small baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper.

Place the dates, raisins, coconut and maple syrup in a high-performance blender and process to the consistency of soft dough. Transfer the date mixture to a medium-sized bowl.

Using a cookie scoop, spoon out a heaping tablespoon of the date mixture and roll it into a ball. Continue until all the dough is in balls.

Put the cocoa powder in a small bowl.

Roll the truffles in the cocoa until coated and place on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate 1 hour.

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Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, truffles will keep up to three days.

ZUCCHINI FETA PIE (Serves 8)

Recipe by Laura Theodore, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a Plant-Based Diet

Though ideal for picnics, you’ll think of any excuse to make this rich, savory pie, especially when zucchini is in season. To punch up the flavor add a small handful of chopped fresh herbs or a generous pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.

Perfect Purple Smoothie

INGREDIENTS:

Homemade almond milk is the base and cayenne powder gives it a spicy punch that intensifies the rest of the flavors. Drink one serving for lunch and chill the other for a fast and easy mid-afternoon reviver.

5 small zucchini (about 1 1/4 pounds), divided 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 eggs 1 (6-ounce) container feta cheese crumbles, divided 1 frozen (9-inch) regular or whole wheat pie crust

12 oz acai juice 6 oz almond milk 1 Tbsp soy creamer 1 cup fresh or frozen wild blueberries 1 frozen banana ½ cup fresh or frozen raspberries 1 Tbsp whole ground flaxseed meal 1 cup coconut water ice cubes 1 Tbsp macro greens or other vegan, non-GMO greens powder ½ tsp apple cider vinegar 1 to 3 dashes cayenne powder

Photo by Stephen Blancett

Yields: 2 servings

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Very thinly slice one zucchini and set aside. Grate remaining zucchini, firmly squeezing it by the handful to remove as much liquid as possible.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs.

Reserve 1/2 cup cheese, and then stir grated zucchini and remaining cheese into egg mixture. Transfer to pie crust, top with sliced zucchini (arranging it in circles, if you like) and reserved cheese and bake until firm and golden brown, 50 to 55 minutes. Set aside to let cool, and then serve warm or cold.

Combine ingredients in a high-speed blender, blend until smooth.

Store in two insulated cups and keep chilled until ready to serve.

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West Granby, CT • www.tiosn.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

September 2016

59

calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by September 12 (for October 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.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Reiki Level 1 Workshop — 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 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.

A Course in Miracles Study Group — 7:30-9pm.

Meets every other week. Students commit to the Daily Lessons, then discuss them in a setting with others following the Course. $80/4-session series.

16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol. com. DeanneMincer.com.

New Moon Celebration — 8-9:15pm. With Regina Synder. The new moon is the best time to manifest and bring in all things new, health, abundance, and prosperity. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400.

Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 1-Day Meditation Retreat — 9:30am-4pm. This silent session allows the mind more time to drop daily thoughts and develop deeper levels of awareness of our body, mind, thoughts and feeling. Bring a bag lunch. By donation. Redding Center for Mindfulness & Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

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

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop — 9:30am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest

markyourcalendar COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES FOR COUPLES Starting September 2017 Mondays • 11am-12:30pm or Evenings • Mondays • 5:30-7pm Strengthen your relationships by learning to communicate effectively. Taught by Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Imago Communication expert.

Come alone or with your partner. $600/couple for the series. $500/individual.

Paula Levy, LMFT 3 Sylvan Rd South, Westport To register, call 203-803-9387 or email Paula@PaulaLevyCT.com PaulaLevyCT.com 60

Fairfield County Edition

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.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Health and Wellness Council Monthly Meeting — 8:15-9:30am. Group of incredible health and wellness professionals who are members of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce. First two meetings free. Register to confirm location. Ridgefield.

203-438-5992. JMulhern@RidgefieldChamber.org.

RidgefieldChamber.org .

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 World Day of Prayer Services — 7:30pm. Discover your power within by deepening your prayer on World Day of Prayer. Prayer, contemplation, streaming events at Unity Village, meditation, candle lighting and more. Love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Healing Circle — 8-8:45pm. With Linda Fiske.

Join a guided mantra and breath meditation class to promote healing. Come pray for yourself and/or others. $5. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT. com. NaamYogaCT.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Leaf Imprint Clay Necklace Workshop — 7-9pm.

Create a one-of-a-kind pendant, and go home with a little bit of nature. Enjoy organic herbal tea and homemade apple crisp. $20, materials included. The Grounded Goodwife. Location provided at registration, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodWife@yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

World Day of Prayer Services — 7:30pm. Discover your power within by deepening your prayer on World Day of Prayer. Prayer, contemplation, streaming events at Unity Village, meditation, candle lighting and more. Love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Male/Female Energy Workshop — 7-9pm. With Berta Prevosti. Learn how masculine and feminine energy exist within each of us, go into more depth about what they reflect, how they affect balance within ourselves and our relationships. $35. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-2457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Fifth Annual DNKL Paint Out — Noon-3pm. (rain date: 9/17) Artists of all levels are invited to participate in this event. Begin day with optional watercolor class (supplies provided). Live music and refreshments and meditation class. Free, donations

natural awakenings

markyourcalendar NEW AGE & CRAFTS EXPO November 6 • 10am-5pm Come Experience a Day of Both Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!

• Angel Card, Past Life & Intuitive Readers • Aura Photos • Crystals • 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers and Guided Meditations • Unique Crafters and Jewelers • Reiki & Massage • Spiritual Vendors to Uplift your Heart & Soul • and more...

Crowne Plaza Hotel Strongtown Rd, RT 188, Southbury • I84, Exit 16 Info: CryOurs87@yahoo.com 203-733-6560 Some space still available requested. Do Ngak Kunphen Ling, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-664-1574. Info@DNKLDharma. org. DNKLDharma.org.

Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair — Noon-5pm.

Gifted and caring intuitives and healers available for readings and healing sessions. All are welcome.

Sessions approx. 25 mins. Appointments available, walk-ins welcome. $45 and up for readings, $30 for healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

My10Cats@optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Reiki Mastership Orientation — 1-2:30pm. Join Beth Leas, Reiki Master for 25+years, for this free orientation to learn more about her personalized Mastership program. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@ gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 10th Annual CancerCare Fairfield Walk/Run for Hope — 9-11:30am. Walk or run to celebrate survivors, support those facing cancer and remember those lost while raising funds for CancerCare’s free, professional support services. $40/adult, $20/child, $10/fun run only. Jennings Beach, 880 South Benson Rd, Fairfield. 203-663-2189. CCenatiempo@CancerCare.org. Community.Cancercare.org.

Journey Dance: a Chakra Liberation Journey — 12:15-1:15pm. At the opening festivities of Salt of

markyourcalendar YOGA TEACHER TRAINING At Western CT ST Univ.

Fridays • 9am-5:30pm • October 7-April 21 Lotus Gardens is a Registered Yoga Alliance Yoga School since 2001 Join our 375 graduates in sharing the Benefits & Gifts Yoga Brings!

Free Info Sessions August 31 & September 12 Call/Text 203-837-0122 LotusGardensYoga.com

markyourcalendar REFLEXOLOGY CERTIFICATION At Western CT ST Univ.

September 24 & 25 • November 12 & 13 9am-5pm Learn how to give full Hand & Foot Reflexology sessions from experienced instructors.

Save $25 with Natural Awakenings $475 Register before Sept 21 Call/Text 203-837-0122 LotusGardensYoga.Com the Earth - Athena Hall. The Healing Arts Sanctuary, 346 Main St S, Woodbury. Keane.Jojo@gmail.com.

Daily Ayurvedic Practices — 1-4pm. With Ilana Sobo. Learn to establish a daily routine. Dinacharya is a key component of Ayurveda and truly helps us to ground and establish a rhythmic flow to our life. $63. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail. com. TwinStarTribe.com.

Divine Love: A Unique Yoga Nidra Experience — 3:30-5pm. Join us for a live presentation of the deepest form of meditation, sleeping meditation. It is enhanced by the mind altering sounds of Sacred Acoustics. $35. 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield.

DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Restorative Yoga with Tibetan Singing Bowls — 4:30-6:30pm. With Marie-Anne Gajdosik and Judy Vuozzo. Revitalize, heal and renew your body, mind, and spirit. This is a practice to experience deep rest and healing. $35 before, $40 day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Tarot – 8-Week Course — 7-9pm. 9/13, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 11/1, 11/8. Learn to use the ancient wisdom of the Tarot to help yourself and others. Card meanings and interpretations. Using your intuition to discern a story. $50/per class.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

markyourcalendar Grand Opening DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC September 10 • 11am-3pm Take a tour, demo Ayurvedic techniques and sample healing foods. Enter free raffle for gift basket of Ayurvedic teas and oils.

6 Yellow Monkey Village, 792 Rte. 35, Cross River, NY (next to O2living in Yellow Monkey Village) Info: 646-670-6725 • DrKaushik.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Forest Bathing or Shinrin Yoku — 9:30-12:30pm.

Several studies have shown a link between Shinrin Yoku and reduced blood pressure and levels of cortisol, increased heart rate and immune system.

During this time, you are encouraged to open up your senses. Free, donation requested. Do Ngak Kunphen Ling, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203747-8603. HealingTraditionsPark@gmail.com.

HealingTraditionsPark.org.

Leaky Gut Syndrome Workshop— 1:30-3:30pm.

With Berta Prevosti. Learn about Leaky Gut Syndromes, how it can affect your health and wellbeing and what steps to take to begin the Healing Process. $35. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-245-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com.

JiivaCenter.com.

Despacho: Mandala Making Ceremony — 3-5pm.

With Rocio La Rosa. The Despacho Mandala Making Ceremony is used for gratitude, healings, blessings and clearings (herbs, flowers, incense and all other materials provided). $60. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

203-344-9311.

Full Moon Celebration — 8-9:15pm. Bring your mental, emotional, and physical bodies into balance.

Let go of unhealthy patterns, sending healing to places in need and opening yourself to receive Divine Love. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 The Conversation — 7-9pm. Monthly conversation on various topics regarding life, death and end-oflife options. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning @ The Liphe Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com.

AllianceFCT.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Autumn Equinox Celebration and Guided Meditation — 7-8:30pm. With Beth Leas. Come together for this powerful evening of reflection, meditation and healing. Practical advice on creating a meditation space at home and on following ones meditation practice. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com.

BethLeas.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 An Evening of Blissful Movement — 6:30-8pm.

With Jojo. Find your tribe. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Keane.Jojo@gmail.com.

WTF is Love? — 7-9pm. With Joe Malfettone, life counselor. Bring yourself, a loved one, or spouse as to discuss all aspects of love - including our misperceptions of what it may truly be. $33 before 9/16, $45 after. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-245-7747. Support@JiivaCenter. com. JiivaCenter.com.

Drum Story — 8-9:30pm. Join world percussionist, poet and storyteller, John de Kadt, for a mesmerizing evening of rhythm and wisdom stories that will stir the heart and ignite the imagination. 20 before 9/20, $25 after. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel.

203-730-YOGA. Gloria@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

markyourcalendar CELEBRATING LIFE AND BEYOND The Alliance For Conscious Transitioning Presents:

End-of-Life Care With Suzanne O’Brien, RN, Doulagivers.

Learn how to care for loved ones holistically at the end-of- life.

September 24 • 1- 6pm • $40 Moment of Death With Patricia Shelton, author, teacher, founder of the Clear Light Society.

Learn how to meld the consciousness of yourself, that of the person in transition and family members into a powerful clear unity leading up to the ultimate moment.

October 8 & 9 • 9am-5pm • $275 The Healing Power of Flower Essences and Life Transitions With Isha Lerner, flower essence healing expert astrologer, author, teacher.

Learn the science of nature, epigenetics, plant signatures and the specific flowers intended for healing and transitioning.

October 23 • 10am-4pm • $125 For more information or to register: Info@AllianceFCT.com 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com Liphe Balance Center, Weston

markyourcalendar SUNRAVEN

THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE Slow Medicine Cafe Sunday, 9/11 • 10am-noon Enjoy a relaxing farm to table brunch. $25 SunRaven Garden Workshop on Seed Collecting and Storing Sunday, 9/18 • 10am-noon Learn fundamentals to produce organic seed. $30 Slow Medicine for Men - A Men’s Group Monday, 9/12 & 9/26 • 7-8:30pm Cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with other conscious men. $30 DreamTending with Warren Falcon Thursday, 9/29 • 7-9pm Let our dreams convey to us individually and collectively as we share the gifts that the dream world provides. $30 Slow Medicine Women’s Wisdom Group Wednesdays & Fridays • 10:30am-12:30pm Supporting each other by recognizing and embracing one’s full authentic beings, together nurturing our highest potential. $30 Please call to register for all gatherings: 914-218-3113 SunRaven: 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY SlowMedicineTherapist.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Reiki Second Degree — 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). 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, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

End-of-Life Care Level 1 Training — 1-6pm.

With Suzanne O’Brien, RN, founder of Doulagivers. Learn how to care for loved ones holistically (emotionally, physically and spiritually) at the endof-life. $40. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning @ The Liphe Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com.

AllianceFCT.com.

Knees and Feet The Dogs are Barking Workshop — 1:30-3:30pm. With Berta Prevosti. Learn to relieve your aching feet as well as the knees. Combination of lecture, stretching and yoga. $35. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-245-7747.

Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.

Mediumship: Messages from Spirit — 3-5pm.

With Reverend Dr. Christine Villani and Susan Bischak, mediums. In a peaceful setting, form a circle ready to hear from the departed. Everyone guaranteed a message. $40. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 TLC Healing and Psychic Sunday — 11am-4pm.

This popular and fun event features a day of insight, clarity, peace and healing brought to you by the professionals at TLC Center. Free admissions, free mini-workshops, 20 minute healing sessions and readings $20/20 min. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail. com. TLCCenter.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Fire Cider Workshop — 7-9pm. This tonic is revered by herbalists for its ability to help prevent cold and flu symptoms and/or shorten their duration if they occur. Sample a variety of Fire Cider recipes, and then create your own. $20, materials included.

The Grounded Goodwife, Provided at registration, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodWife@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Reiki Second Degree workshop — 10am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections. Manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Guided Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls — 7-8pm. With Linda Fiske and Judy Vuozzo. Last Friday of each month. Relaxing guided meditation with the live playing of Tibetan singing bowls. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2 1770 House Tour and Kombucha Sampling — 2-3:30pm. $15. Provided at registration, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail.com.

ColonialGoodwife.com.

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ongoingcalendar sunday

markyourcalendar

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 9:30-10:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

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

NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

Family Meditation Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am.

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

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

UnityCenterNorwalk.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.

Workshop Schedule

monday Monday Morning Meditation — 11:30am12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach and individualized support. Great for those new to meditation and sage meditators. Explore different meditation techniques including breathwork, guided meditation, mantras (sound), yantra (sight), and slow motion movement. $100/5 week series. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

natural awakenings

LifePath Yoga & Wellness Reiki Level 1 Training: Saturday, 9/10 • Noon-5:30pm Intro to Yoga 4 week Signature Series: Mondays • beginning 9/12 • 5:45-6:45pm • with Leslie Santiana Kids Yoga Series: Thursdays • beginning 9/15 Balancing Your Chakras Workshop: Sunday, 9/18 • 1:30-3pm PreNatal Yoga Series: Tuesdays • beginning 9/20 • 5:15pm • with Shannon Aleksa Mindfulness Meditation Mini Retreat: Sunday, 9/25 • 1:30-430pm • with Dr. Paul Epstein Women’s Empowerment Workshop: Saturday, 10/8 • 1:30-3:30pm • with Nina Antolino Mindfulness Meditation Training: Sunday, Oct 16 & 23, 1:30-4:30pm with Dr. Paul Epstein Reiki Level 2 Training: Sunday, 10/30 • 11am-5:30pm • with Nina Antolino & JoAnn Duncan

Register for all workshops at LifePathYoga.net.

For more information, call 203-354-7070 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

Free Guided Meditation – 7:30pm: second Monday.

1pm: first and third Wednesday. With Dr. Allen Levy.

Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need.

Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

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.

tuesday Healing Flow – 9:30-10:30am. Series of stretches, moves and poses; concentrating on breath. Improve flexibility and core strength while reducing stress.

Create a lasting sense of calm. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit.

Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking?

Monroe-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.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

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

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/dropin, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rt. 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

Joyful Movement – 6:15-7:15pm. Stretch and breathe, with simple dance and yoga movements, with praise to contemporary Christian Music. Move and Praise God. All welcome. Free will donation. St John’s Episcopal Church, 628 Main St, Park in Cantebury Green (Suburban St), Stamford. 973-476-9582. PositivePathNow@ gmail.com.

Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, 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. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, 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.

Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com.

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 Baby Boomer and Beyond Yoga – 10:30amnoon. With Deanne Mincer, 30 years experience.

Yoga for the young at heart. In private setting, heated, carpeted floor. With close attention to aging issues. $80/4-class series, $25/drop-in. Call for location. Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Free Guided Meditation – 1pm. First and third Wednesdays. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

Vinyasa Yoga – 6:15pm. In Vinyasa yoga, your movements are synchronized to the breath. This style is sometimes also called flow yoga, because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. $14 or co-op rate. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels.

By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 7-8:30pm. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

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

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

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

Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm.

Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you yo happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062.

Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com.

Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. 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.

203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction.org. TrinityProduction.org.

Psychic and Mediumship Development Class – 7-9pm. Develop your own psychic and spiritual communication skills. Meditation and exercises to develop psychic and mediumship skills. All are welcome. $20.

Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail. com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares — 7-9pm. Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions. In healing others healers are also healed themselves. All welcome. $10.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. 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 and 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 educrcation for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present.

By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130.

Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

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.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. 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. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com.

Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, 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.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and 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, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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ongoingcalendar friday saturday 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.

Free Mommy and Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich.

Somatics – 10:30-11:30am. With Darlene Carman.

The practice of body awareness and using the body to heal itself. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Student Massage Therapy Clinic – 11am-noon.

Relax and enjoy a 50-minute, full-body massage for only $20 at our Danbury Campus public clinic. $20.

44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury. KMCCaffrey@ Ridley.edu. Ridley.edu.

Gentle Naam Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. With Darleen Driver. Gentle introductory class to learn about the special benefits of the Naam Yoga practice. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

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.

Vinyasa Flow – 5:30-6:30pm. With Patricia Voorhees. Class guides you through classical yoga poses with attention to breath and mind-body awareness.

Class Pack, or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave. Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Shamanic Journeying Class — 7-9pm. 9/2, 9/16, 9/30. With Rocio La Rosa. A way of communicating with your inner or spirit self and retrieving information. Shamanic journeying can also be used for the purposes of divination, personal healing and to meet your power animal or spirit guides. $40/per class.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

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.

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Fairfield County Edition

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.

Beach Yoga and Meditation – 8:30-9:45am. Nourish your body, mind and spirit practicing gentle flow yoga and meditation by the sea. All levels welcome.

During inclement weather, classes held indoors at Lifepath Yoga and Wellness. 4 for $70 (expires 2 months), 8 for $130 (expires 3 months). Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@ LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 9:30-10:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga – 10-11:15am. With Shannon Aleksa. Practice poses carefully chosen for the paddleboard while connecting with nature. Brief intro to paddleboarding, yoga class, board rental and life vest. $45/drop-in. $160/4 class pack. Preregistration required. Calf Pasture Beach, 125 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga. net. LifePathYoga.net.

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

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

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

Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, 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.

Kids and Tween Yoga – 11:15am-12:15pm. K-5th.

Sara Kate Venison. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net.

Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

natural awakenings

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 NEED A SPACE FOR CLASSES/SERVICES? JOIN OUR COMMUNITY OF HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS Beautiful 600SF serene yoga studio and private Reiki/massage room w/ table are each available for rent. Bamboo floors, high ceilings, dimmable lighting, Ipod hookup, and yoga props. On Rt. 7, close to I-95 and Merritt. Email Nina@LifePathYoga.net.

OFFICE SPACE STAMFORD IN WELLNESS CENTER - Perfect for therapist, counselor, coach, healer-Available full or part time.

Beautiful environment, great parking congenial office mates. Call Eileen 203-353-8811.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE. 85 OLD LONG RIDGE RD, STAMFORD. 1st Floor space, newly remodeled. 2 units available, one at 700 SF with 2 offices at $1100 per month, second space is 1700 SF with 3 offices and large open space for modular units or open area for your office requirements; rent is $2550 per month.

Each unit has a private restroom. Rent includes real estate taxes and building maintenance, there are no special assessments. Call Donna at 203559-6021.

SPACIOUS OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE FOR RENT IN WESTPORT professional building; parking, waiting room and restroom included; many professions considered. Call Cody 917-544-4412 (cell).

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.

DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Would you like to help spread the word about natural health and personal empowerment?

Contact Publisher Nicole Miale today about becoming a Community Street Team member to represent the magazine at some of our many upcoming community events. NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (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

Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight loss issues. See ad, page 15.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture for all.

Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as a ff o r d a b l e g r o u p s e t t i n g s .

Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues. See ad, page 55.

PATRICIA SINGER, MS, LAc 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 PatSinger.com

As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony and spiritual counseling.

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.

CHIROPRACTIC

CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 • MotherEarthCrystals.com The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Hand-crafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans.

EDUCATION

PETER BRAGLIA, DC

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

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

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

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

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 8.

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

WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques . Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 4.

COLONICS

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

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 27.

END OF LIFE ALLIANCE FOR CONSCIOUS TRANSITIONING

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.

At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

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

Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace end-of-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life. See ad, page 17.

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.

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FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE KURT WAPLES, DC

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION

Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com

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

Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.

HEADACHE/PAIN RELIEF CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

Connecticut Headache and Migraine Rel i e f C e n t e r ’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache 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 12.

HEALTH COACH

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com

Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance.

Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective. See ad, page 55.

YUFANG LIN, MD

MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC

Licensed RN, Nutritionist and 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 and stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens and 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 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 soughtafter speaker and lecturer.

His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.

Fairfield County Edition

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

Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, page 8.

MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM

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

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HYPNOSIS

WCMG Integrative Medicine 173 East Ave, New Canaan 203-920-1603 WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org Are you tired of being sick? Are you ready to transform your life?

Let me help you heal from within holistically, using functional, herbal, homeopathic and energy medicine approaches.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Ashley Russell, ND Chris Maslowski, LAc, Resident Practitioner 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD Brian Rodrigues, OD, Jason Rutherford, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, 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 55.

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. DR. CHRISTINE VILLANI

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural H o r m o n e t h e r a p y, w e i g h t 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.

203-823-3453 RevVillani@gmail.com Loving-Memories.com

Reverend Villani is an ordained Interfaith Minister. She performs weddings for all denominations and belief systems. She also performs baby namings and funerals.

She is certified in Reiki and is a medium who gives readings.

The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. ~Vince Lombardi

natural awakenings

LIFE COACHING SOULBYRD THERAPIES, LLC

Sherrylee Dickinson, MLSW, LMT 203-984-6042 SherryLeeDickinson.com US.NYROrganic.com/Shop/SherryLee Stay grounded and on track with life coaching sessions, including vision board work, boundary and goal setting, and wellness workshops.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage.

At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 32.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist and 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 16.

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.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

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.

MOBILE FITNESS & WELLNESS

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 5.

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd E, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 BigAppleHealth.com

Naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy, natural face lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include family medicine, women’s health, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pain management, skin care. Insurance accepted.

BRAMASOLÉ FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER Elizabeth D Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 BramasoleWellness.com

Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you!

Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available. See ad, page 33.

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, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit.

Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 14.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, 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.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/ Western herbs, allergy/toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/ enzyme therapies. See ad, page 39.

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NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING NUTRITION RESCUE

Jessica Moon, MS 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 300, Stamford 203-979-6181 • Jessica@NutritionRescue.net NutritionRescue.net Facebook.com/NutritionRescueCT Jessica uses a comprehensive approach for working with individuals and families. Specializing in dietary management of food sensitivities/allergies and providing support with elimination diets, menu development, and minimizing the impact of food restrictions.

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

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork.

PILATES

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THE ART OF CONTROL 1177 Summer St, Stamford 203-973-7262 Info@ArtoOfControl.com

Classically trained Pilates instructors teach the fundamental concepts and principles of Pilates.

Part of Synergy Health and Fitness, a holistically oriented gym where practitioners from multiple disciplines offer their clients the fullest form of health and wellness. See ad, page 30.

ROBIN QUEEN-FINKELSTEIN

SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to Re-envision life in order to flourish.

See ad, page 55.

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PSYCHOTHERAPY

JILL BADYRKA, MFT AND REIKI MASTER In-Home Marriage and Family Therapy For Families, Children, Couples and Individuals 203-218-0194 • JBadyrkaMFT@gmail.com

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

MARIA C CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

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.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com 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 13.

PsychoSpiritual Therapy and Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com

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.

Fairfield County Edition

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.

In-home services inspire healing, balanced with client well-being and comfort. Specializing in trauma, parent-child relationships, divorce, life coaching, selfempowerment and inner peace.

Holistic and strength-based. Now accepting Saturday appointments for therapy and Reiki.

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

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

Berta Prevosti is a Usui & Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years.

We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners.

We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 32.

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING

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.

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

natural awakenings

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 29.

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WELCOME TO GRAVITY

Yoni Hormadaly, LMT 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com Yoni has been practicing Structural Integration since 2002. Specializing in improving the relationship between the human body and gravity. Flat feet, chronic pain and discomfort, improvement in athletic pursuits, general self improvement, are some of the reasons clients of all ages have sought out this work. Free phone consultation.

WESTPORT ROLFING

WELLNESS CENTER

Kaia Yoga Studio, Westport and Fairfield near Merritt exit 46 Sachi: 203-216-9720 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com Mikel: 203-216-9770 Mikel@WestportRolfing.com

7eFIT SPA

Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement re-education for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 17.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com 7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include antiaging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weightloss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weightloss program.

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.

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA ™

787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com

A new way to looking and feeling good.

430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

Relax while our technology

Healing sessions in shamKure Spa rovides a anic healing, Melody crystal place for people to healing, Reiki, shamanic rely on as part of intuitive readings. Accr- their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. edited and certification No surgery invasive procedures.

Experience or our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and we’ll transform your life to one of health, healing Infrared Sauna • Micro-dermabrasion shamanic healing. See ad, page 35. and vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage and an organic juice page 3.

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590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com

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Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com

SALTANA CAVE

Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki NATURAL BEAUTY SPA Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials 4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-502-8503 Teeth Whitening

Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit. See ad, page 13.

SUNRAVEN: THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE

501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicine.org

Promoting and supporting health and wellness; facilitating community-centered experiential and Natural.BeautySpa@hotmail.com reflective learning for individuBETH LEAS CTNaturalBeauty.com als, families, and groups, by ofTransformative Healing • Tarot We specialize in today’s latest skin fering educational programs, events, and resources Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield rejuvenation. Antiaging and acne designed to build integrative skills and understand203-856-9566 treatment, massage, facials, hair ing for those looking to holistically care for themBethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com removal, acupuncture, lymphatic selves, others, and the world in which we live.

If not now, when? Inspire change drainage, VelaShape for cellulite CT Transformative 1092 High Ridge Road | Stamford, 06905 programs, holistic medicine, psychoon all levels—greater physical treatment and more. See ad, spiritual counseling; women’s, men’s and couples | www.7efitspa.com ease, emotional freedom, peace 7efitspact1@gmail.com page 5. groups, garden co-op, cleansing program; special of mind and spiritual connection.

12-week “immersion”. See ad, page 55.

20 years of intuitive healing JIIVA YOGA, REIKI experience with adults and AND MASSAGE CENTER children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Berta Prevosti, Usui & Karuna Reiki Master Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 19.

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford

Save Now with Introductory Prices!

Call 203-356-5822

SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings.

Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing.

We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events.

See ad, page 32.

Music was my refuge.

I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness. ~Maya Angelou

eNaturalAwakenings.com

September 2016

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COSMIC RHYTHMS

by Alethea Hunt

A

Virgo solar eclipse on September 1 carries an energetic theme of discernment. Although this can create a bit of a “bubble burst” where certain ideals encounter resistance, this type of reality check is a safeguard preventing scenarios that have limited expansion potential. Data coming through at this time should be looked at as revealing; a second look at information may even expose a truth that wasn’t seen earlier due to being the proverbial needle in a haystack. Speaking of data, Mercury is retrograde in Virgo most of this month; it’s good to be aware of how little statistical tidbits can potentially be spun, so carefully go over information being presented at this time to distinguish when something holds but a mere kernel of veracity. Look critically at all information presented, especially during this election season.

Some significant health-related energy swirls in the astrological air with the Virgo vibes permeating. Try to get enough exercise, take good care of yourself, go for a physical, and maintain a good nutritional practice to proactively prevent any potential problems from surfacing. Don’t fret, as it’s not too late to start making improvements in any of these areas with the ruler of this Moon flanked by favorable planets. On a more macro level, big health-related news may hit headlines around this time.

Jupiter enters Libra on September 9 for a year’s stay, emphasizing partnership matters and potentially proving a boon for unions.

Expansion comes through relating, and any close friendship, relationship or business partnership does best to mutually elevate one another. Shifting perspective to one of appreciation may help this process; look for the beauty and love to be found all around us.

Don’t be surprised if some romantic rumblings occur around this time. But be careful as a final delusion-busting square takes place between Saturn and Neptune just a day later while relationship planet Venus finds itself tangled with Pluto mid-September—and Uranus a week later. Sometimes, in order to grow, it’s necessary to know when something keeps you stuck in a union, and the truth always helps in this regard. Know that seismic shifts for the better are often experienced as destabilizing at first.

A lunar eclipse in Pisces occurring on September 16 signifies emotional healing, especially regarding any illusions possibly being held. This is a time to confront any truths that hit you square in the face rather than retreat into denial, escapism or substance abuse with Mars in Sagittarius’ involvement. Analytical Mercury touching this lunation also emphasizes separating fact from fiction.

Lastly, a Libra new moon on September 30 facilitates new beginnings in relationships; love may be growing due this moon’s proximity to Jupiter. But it’s also highly likely not to see a romantic situation or partner clearly; check all fantasies as it’s possible to “tune out” to a truth with Neptune’s involvement. It may be easier to gloss anything messy or ugly over, but a reality that can’t exactly be ignored may have to be confronted. Additionally, a vampire-like vibe to this Moon may entail scenarios that could involve partners “checking out” via fantasizing about a tempting morsel if or when an existing union seems to have soured. The best bet is to honestly and straightforwardly address any problems in a relationship rather than pretend they aren’t there to prevent this possible manifestation.

A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.

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displayadvertiserindex Acupuncture Healing CT/ Jody Eisemann

55

Alliance for Conscious Transitioning 17 Art of Control

30

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 4

Mowatt Painting & Services

45

Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales

71

Natural Beauty Spa

5

Natural Health & Wellness Center

14

Judith Barr

11

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market

58

Blues Views and BBQ

41

Nature’s Way Natural Foods

11

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical

2

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental

Neal’s Yard Remedies/ Sherrylee Dickinson

18

2

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

48

Bramasolé Wellness

33

Olivette 58

Central Services

41

Robin Ordan, Coach

Chamomille Natural Foods

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Robin Ordan, LMT

16

Robin Ordan, LCSW

13

CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard

15

CT Headache & Migraine Center 12

8

Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc

9

Origin Fitness

30

Julie Punishill

19

Ann Reeves

16

17

The Sacred Spirit

11

Dreamtown/Noreen Ehrlich

31

Salon Aponte

54

Embody the Sacred

52

Eyecare Associates

55

Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary

10

Final Journey LLC

47

Forza Five Holistic Fitness & Healing Center

13

Victoria Shaw, PhD

15

Fur to Feathers

47

Detoxified Iodine

53

DoTerra/Lori Haggerty

29

Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine

Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa 13 Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND

5

The SNO Company

49

Debra Gibson, ND

7

Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli

13

Germosen Jewelry/ Denisse Germosen

29

Stamford Hospital Health Wellness & Sports Expo

3

Hands and Paws Reiki for All

15

Harbor Harvest

27

Sticks & Stones Farm

52

Hedge Trimming by Thomas

11

Sun Raven, the home of Slow Medicine

55

Housatonic Valley Waldorf School 8

Hilda Swaby

Hunter Healing Hands

35

Total Life Care Center

Insight Counseling

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Touch of Sedona

Inspirit Healing Studios/ Jeanne Street

10

The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 59 Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 32 Kindred Spirits

27

Kure Spa

3

Beth Leas

19

LifePath Yoga & Wellness

32

Deanne Mincer

19

Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

8

19 18-19 4

TreeTech 14 Unity Center for Practical Spirituality

25

Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND

39

Westbrook Nature School

27

Westport Farmers Market

57

Westport Rolfing

17

Whole Fit Studio

32

The Yoga Shala

33

Yoga Teacher’s Association (YTA) 33

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September 2016

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Yoga Healing with

copperGrace® yoga & meditation Explore the practice of the body postures, breath work, sacred scriptures, song praise, essential oils from the Bible, and meditation as a vehicle to bring about an alert calmness to be able to hear God’s voice. Share in this faith community circle with us at the Grange. All are welcome — ecumenical and interfaith.

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72

Fairfield County Edition

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