Natural Awakenings Fairfield County November 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

Mental Wellness

P L A N E T

FREE

Ways to Stay Sharp The Truth About Depression Natural Stress Relievers The Gut-Brain Connection Healing Traumatic Experiences Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy

Festive Sips and Nibbles Handle Wild Things with Care November 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.”

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®

Mercury-free for over 30 years, Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Caring Naturopathic Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing

Our integrative approach treats a widerange of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia

Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders Lyme Disease RSD Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain

Learn more about our approach. Watch our new therapy videos – all on our website!

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

From left to right:

Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, Director Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND & Dr. David M. Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) EEG Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine Electrodermal Screening Metabolic Typing

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

Functional Medicine Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Herbal Medicine Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization FDA-cleared Phototherapy Detoxification Abdominal Manual Therapy

FREE CDs on our Whole-Body approach to Lyme Disease.

Call now for details.

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

2

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

Fairfield County Edition

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Change Your Mind & Change Your Life!

Dynamic Therapy for Rapid & Powerful Change Fast, Easy, Natural & Successful – Relief in Minutes!

Hypnosis • Thought Field Therapy • NLP Time Line • Regression Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis

Call 203-595-0110 for a FREE Consultation

• Fear • Weight Loss • Self Sabotage • Sleep • Motivation

• Smoking • Trauma • Anger • Sports • Success

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1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT | www.MindBodyTransformation.com | 203-595-0110

1st Session

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November 2016

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Fit Spa ™

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Infrared Sauna • Micro-dermabrasion Myolift • Torc • Body Waxing Diet Master • Oxygen Bar •Reiki Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials Teeth Whitening

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.

22 VALLEY SPIRIT COOPERATIVE

Wellness Center Meets

Art Salon in Washington Depot

by Nicole Miale

24 STAY SHARP

Powerful Ways to Avoid Mental Decline

by Lisa Marshall

24 30

27 KELLY BROGAN

15% off any service Call 203-356-5822 1492 High Ridge Road | Stamford, CT 06905 7efitspact1@gmail.com | www.7efitspa.com

ON THE TRUTH ABOUT DEPRESSION Why Meds Don’t Work and What Does

by Kathleen Barnes

28 THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION

Healing Arts Sanctuary A Feast for the Senses

Stimulate the fire of the mind, cultivate creativity and imagination, and restore the physical and spiritual self.

Crystal Light Therapy s Aromatheraphy s Sound Healing Specialty Massages s Energy Healing s Meditation Facials s Weekend Retreats s Lectures Literary & Interactive Programs A Banquet of opportunities to heal and replenish the physical body and inner self will be at your fingertips; a place to come to stimulate the mind with evening events ranging from talks about health to programs for children and families.

Athena Hall is also available to “like minded” people who are part of the alternative and holistic community for rent by the hour, full or half day, or based on a series of weeks for an ongoing class.

Visit our Specialty Store for a wide selection of products, original art, and jewelry to awaken the senses, inspire, and soothe.

203-586-1172

346 Main St. S s Woodbury, CT 06798 www.naturalsalthealing.com 4

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Mental Wellness Linked to Diet in Many Ways

by David L. Johnston

37

30 MINDFULNESS FOR STRESS RELIEF

by Jasmin Hepburn

32 HEALING TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE

Somatic Practice Supports Body’s Efforts to Recover

by Valerie Candela

37 FESTIVE SIPS

AND NIBBLES

Vegan Holiday Treats that Everyone Loves

by Judith Fertig

45 ANIMALS AS HEALERS

Dogs Play a Role in

Psychotherapy Success

by Nicole Kroeber

45

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7 newsbriefs 14 globalbriefs 16 healthbriefs 18 masteringyoga 22 communityspotlight 33 healthykids 36 inspiredtable 37 consciouseating 40 healingways 41 productmarketplace 44 naturallyhealthypet 48 naturalpet 49 petresourceguide 5 1 calendar 56 classifieds 57 resourceguide 62 displayadindex

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

Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose

203-438-7146

Open Every Day Until 5:30

452 Main Street, Ridgefield

touchofsedonaridgefield.com

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

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Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Center for Natural Medicine

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

• Men’s Health • Cancer Support • Colds and Flus • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss

Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Mara Davidson Dr. Nadia Noori Tracy Pardo Alexandra Mason, LMT Beverly Lewis 8 Lincoln Street Westport, CT 06880

p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601

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

Dr. Ellen Lewis

Medical Director www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org

Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy Classes & Workshops

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November 2016

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Valerie Candela, Lisa DiFalco, Jasmin Hepburn, Nicole Kroeber, Herman Olivera, Mary Oquendo 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.

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

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

vents of recent months have been intense and distressing for many of us. As we have witnessed, from presidential candidates to peers, it’s not uncommon to see toddler-like behavior from adults when the going gets tough. When we don’t get what we want, it’s easy to complain, or place judgment and blame on others. There is a tendency to take the bait, to get emotionally wrapped up in a situation and miss an opportune time to step away and move on. Natural Awakenings’ focus is on solutions, not problems.

Resisting the sensational in favor of the meaningful, our articles educate readers about timely issues by providNicole Miale ing actionable guidance and spotlighting people making a positive difference, across the nation and in the local communities we serve.

This year’s November edition will hit the stands during a most heated presidential election campaign season. The proceedings created fear and anxiety for many people, fostering divisions rather than building connections. That is the opposite of what Natural Awakenings stands for and is in opposition to my personal life mission.

To maintain my own equilibrium in recent days, I have relied on a variety of tools learned over many years: mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, a close-knit network of family and friends, as well as professionals offering services with my well-being in mind. This issue, with its emphasis on mental wellness, provides many ideas and constructive approaches to ease your experience if you need support.

The very active tropical storm season this fall was another source of anxiety for many. Although our area didn’t take a direct hit from Hurricane Matthew, its high winds and rain caused billions of dollars in property and environmental damage, lost wages, many deaths and personal misery for millions of people. In North Carolina, the environmental damage left by leaked waste (and millions of dead animals) from submerged hog and chicken farms and coal ash residue from power plants is staggering. What will it take to clean up the toxic mess, and where will it all go? Will anyone learn from the experience? I hope so.

My heart goes out to the residents of Haiti and eastern Cuba that took the full brunt of the storm. Already challenged with poverty and bad infrastructure, many were left with nothing after the storm passed. Cleanup is a challenge, and leading a comfortable life won’t be possible for a long time for our global brothers and sisters. As we turn our thoughts to Thanksgiving gratitude, let’s give thanks for our blessings of comfort—food, drinkable water, heat, clean clothes, toothpaste, a warm bed—and other parts of the daily life we tend to take for granted.

We usher in the holiday season, a time of gatherings, festivities, family and friends. For many, along with such fun and joyous events come some unwelcome emotional stressors, such as anxiety and overwhelm. The good news is that there is much you can do to support yourself and your family members through the hectic holiday season. With mindful attention, tools and support from amazing practitioners in the area if needed, I wish that you all may find new enjoyment in annual rituals.

Enjoy the autumn and the holiday season. Be thankful as you relish the extra warmth, savor the remaining fall leaves, party by a fall bonfire, or sip hot apple cider with your kids or friends. Strive to maintain your emotional balance and do what you can to help others who aren’t as fortunate.

With love, light and gratitude,

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

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

See our advertiser index on page 62. Making it easier to find the resources you need.

newsbriefs newsbriefs 7eFit Spa Open House Ridgefield Host to Annual Wellness Expo in Stamford

Ridgefield Chamber 1/4v 10.6.16:Layout 1

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n November 5, the tamford has Ridgefield Chamber a new option of Commerce Health and for those seeking Wellness Council willfeel host to look and their thirdtheir Annual bestWellduring ness ™ Expothe at Ridgefield holiday seaRecreation Center son and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridgefrom Road, Saturday, November 5, 2016 10am-2pm.

The expo, open toservices the public free for all, will offering a variety of aesthetic andand non-invasive tech10:OO am 2:00 pm feature car seat inspections, health and wellness vendors, niques to support mind and body wellness. An open house is demonstrations, raffles, drug take-back more.

Ridgefield for Recreation Center scheduled November 22 from noonand to 7pm.

195 Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety Danbury Ridgefield The regularRoad, service offerings—which will be available as of local health resources including massage, neurofeedRelax while our technology brief demonstration sessions during the open house—include Vendors •and Carthe Seat Inspection back, osteopathy, skin care, elder care options, . does work anti-aging oxygen facials with oxygen therapy,chiropractic, Torc Plus bioyouth activities, nutrition and more.

The Ridgefield Food • Raffles • Drug Take Back No surgery or invasive procedures. electric stimulation for targeted muscle activation (alsoPolice available Department will bemore! conducting carinfrared seat inspection the Demos Infrared Sauna • and Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen therapy) and weight aloss, sauna forindetoxifiFounders Hall parking lot with a drug take-back booth and Brought to you by: Myolift • Torc Body Waxing personal weight loss program. cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster the Center will a series and of one-hour DietRecreation Master • Oxygen Bar • feature Reiki The Torc Plus has been FDA-cleared is knowndemo to be classes including spin, yoga and Zumba.

Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials effective for muscle tightening, toning, cellulite reduction andVisitors toWhitening the expo will receive a passport to present at inchTeeth loss. the vendor tables be stamped, which will earn them raffle Save Tracey Nowtowith Founder Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident tickets for prizes.

In addition, the first 150 attendees will Introductory Prices! and business owner, decided to open 7eFitSpa because she receive swag bags filled with products and offers. The RecreCall 203-356-5822 wanted a new business dedicated to helping people look ation Center will also be hosting raffles for classes and memand feel their best.

The |spa had a soft opening in June but 1092 High Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06905from Greens on berships.

Food will be available for purchase was fully operational with all equipment and services avail7efitspact1@gmail.com | www.7efitspa.com the Go, featuring healthy options for adults and children. The able in mid-September. title sponsors of the 2016 Expo are Elements Massage and Laurel Ridge Health Care Center.

For more information, visit 7eLLC.com and visit the Stamford location, email or Locacall For more information, visit7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com DestinationRidgefield.com.

203-356-5822.

Location: 1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford tion: Ridgefield Parks and Recreation (Charter Oak Rooms), (inside Salon Rd, Cheveaux).

SeeSee ad,ad, page 15.40.

195 Danbury Ridgefield. page

Fit Spa

A new way to looking and feeling good.

Shamanic HealingVita Retreat 7E Fit Spa Carries Juwel in ReddingBottles Gemwater

SJ

oin shamanic and tamford’s 7eFitpractitioners Spa celebrated its first anniversary teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica recently andaowner Hunter for day ofTracey shamanic healing Scalzi continues to upgrade abunfor gratitude, transformation, the spa’sdiscovery offerings. and Visitors dance, enlightenment. will findhealing a new poplar Thisnow all-day retreat is open far sauna—the only to infrared anyone and all levels who wish one in Stamford—as as to learn more about well shamanism and new Vita Juwel Gemwater shamanic healing practices and techbottles. niques that can be incorporated into Deana Paqua daily Vita Gemwater bottles areposibased on the understanding lifeJuwel for transformation and that can be restructured tivewater changes.

The event willorbe“informed” held at and that crystals may be to infuseatenergy and intention into water. The practice theused sanctuary The Redding Center itself is ancient, but Juwel has14created for Meditation onVita November from glass vials that contain different 10am toblends 5pm.of crystals, following tested and tried “recipes”. In the past, gems were put directly in the water to prepare gemwaA variety of techniques and teachter or “crystal elixirs” and therefore had ings will be incorporated throughout to be cleaned regularly.

Besides cleaningshamanic issue, somejourney stones may also emit hazardous the day,the including substances (e.g. bedrock) and those contaminations were conwork, shamanic ceremonies, crystal sumed along with the water.

Some healing healing, various spirit medicine healing crystals that can be used in external applications without a problem may release toxic teachings and shamanic techniques for Jessica Hunter substances if they are placed directly in water. clearing and manifestation practices.

Vita Juwel devised a way to avoid those issues by using gem Paqua and Hunter bring a unique and informative combinavials which seal the gems in the glass vial and infuse the water tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. without having direct physical contact, Scalzi explains. Vita Paqua specializes in Andean and South American shaJuwel gem vials are made from lead-free glass and hand-picked manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American gems. Several different gem blends are offered, tested by naturoshamanic traditions. Together, they provide educational and paths and based on the insights of modern crystal healing. inspirational shamanic gatherings that encompass a variety

7eFit Spa carries an assortment of the Vita Juwel bottles of teachings and a global connection of a variety of Shaand decanters and Scalzi says others may easily be ordered. manic Healing practices.

For more information, call 203-356-5822, email For more information, visit and 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or EmbodytheSacred.net visit 7eFitSpa.com. Location: HunterHealingHands.com.

See ads, pages 10 and 20.

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 4.

transformative natural healing are you ready for a change?

Naturopathic Family Medicine For over 25 years, Dr. Debra Gibson has provided caring, personal treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment to support healing transformation of body, mind and spirit.

Her thorough, wellness-oriented approach investigates the root cause of chronic health concerns, and uses effective natural therapies to heal imbalances underlying conditions such as fatigue, overweight, allergy and autoimmunity, hormonal imbalance (thyroid, PMS, menopause), gastrointestinal disorders, and children’s health issues. (thy

100 Danbury Road, Suite 102, Ridgefield, CT Ph. 203.431.4443 12

Fairfield County Edition

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

Debra Gibson, ND November 2016

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newsbriefs

Rejuvenating Skincare Using the Kansa Wand

World Peace Mandala at Mark Twain Library in Redding

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uddhist monks from India will create a World Peace Mandala, an age-old ritual sand art form that reflects one of the most profound tenets in Buddhism— impermanence—from November 9 to 13. Taking place at Redding’s Mark Twain Library, the Allen and Helen Hermes Art program is brought to the library by Redding’s Tibetan Buddhist Center of Universal Peace. The mandala is being created to raise awareness and funds for the Sera Mahayana Monastic University, one of the seats of learning in Tibetan Buddhism.

“We are thrilled to be hosting such a unique event at the Mark Twain Library,” said Emily d’Aulaire, a member of the Hermes’ executive committee. “We think this is a wonderful opportunity to learn about—and appreciate—an ancient form of art.”

Using a metal funnel, the monks meticulously place millions of grains of brightly colored sand to form intricate geometric designs that contain ancient, spiritual symbols. The World Peace Mandala includes symbols from many different religions, and is intended as an offering of peace and unity.

The monks will be creating the mandala during regular library hours, with a break for lunch between 1 and 2pm. There will also be several special programs held during the five-day creation of the mandala, which will be held in the library’s rotunda. The monks will begin with an opening ceremony on November 9 at 10am.

On November 12 at 11am, there will be a special program for children (registration required). At 3pm, Freyberg, a local yoga teacher and Sanskrit scholar, will perform a few Vedic chants. On November 13 at 1pm, a closing dissolution ceremony will be held and the mandala will be swept away and ritually returned to nature.

For more information, contact Maggie McIntire at Maggie.McIntire@ MarkTwainLibrary.org or call 203-938-2545. Location: 439 Redding Rd, West Redding.

T

he Liphe Balance Center, located in Weston, is now offering treatments using the Kansa wand, a new tool in the world of holistic skincare. The bronze massage tool glides over the skin, erasing stress, discomfort, fine lines and anxiety.

Melanie Sachs, a certified Ayurvedic lifestyle counselor and the author of Ayurvedic Beauty Care, will be visiting November 1-3 to offer head, neck, shoulder and face treatments for $50. The 45-minute treatment incorporates Diamond Way Ayurveda face oil, customized for your skin type, and a soothing cleanse that is made of organic barley and oat flour with rose petal powder.

To reserve a space and for more information, visit LipheBalance.com, email LipheBalance@gmail.com or call 203-912-2791. Location: 36 Michaels Way, Weston.

Connecticut’s Largest Organic Mattress Gallery Every mattress in our Carpe Diem and Terra Bed Collections is made entirely by hand using only natural filling materials.

Our mattresses are backed by a 25 year warranty and are designed to offer you a great value and return on your investment. Please stop in and try one for yourself. We think you will be very impressed.

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Fairfield County Edition

Stamford 55 High Ridge Road 203.323.1509

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natural awakenings

New Naturopathic Practice Opens in Fairfield

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

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ait Barbiero, ND, has opened her practice and is now providing naturopathic knowledge and healing in Fairfield.

Specializing in women’s health Cait Barbiero concerns, gastrointestinal disease, fatigue and neurological imbalance, Barbiero is also versed in conventional treatments and diagnostics. Functional laboratory test results guide her treatment plans, which include high-quality supplements, botanicals, nutrition, detoxifications, homeopathy, and mental and emotional therapies.

“Throughout the years, I have seen the devastating consequence disease can have on a person’s world. I want people to know that it doesn’t have to be this way. Your illness is not who you are. There are natural answers and there is hope,” explains Barbiero.

After receiving her bachelors degree from the University of Connecticut, Barbiero graduated from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona, with a doctorate of naturopathic medicine. She is now accepting new patients and offers inperson appointments, as well as video consultations for those out of state or country.

For more information or to schedule a free 15-minute consultation, visit DrCait.com or email Info@DrCait.com.

Location: 18 Reef Rd (above Firehouse Deli on the second floor), Fairfield.

Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. ~Karl Barth

Beautiful Hair Shouldn’t Be Hazardous To Your Health The best thing about our products is what we leave out!

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End-of-Life Doula Services Vigil & Legacy Planning Speaker Series Bedside Healing Services Monthly DIscussions

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November 2016

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newsbriefs Sacred Spirit Offers Holiday Gift Ideas & 2017 Sedona Trip

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he Sacred Spirit is a New Age gift shop in Old Greenwich offering many tools for personal and spiritual growth in addition to evidential readings and various energy healing modalities. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 7pm, Saturday from 11am to 5pm, and Sunday from 12:30 to 4pm.

The store hosts workshops as well as other events offering tools and strategies for personal and spiritual growth. During the holiday season they will be offering holiday sales.

Gift items include candles, décor, crystals, prayer beads, pendants, jewelry, tarot and oracle cards, crystals, stones and more. Readers and healers are also available by appointment for intuitive, psychic and grief readings; tarot; palmistry; mediumship; Reiki; energy, crystal, pendulum and sound healing; past life regression and restructuring. Walk-ins are welcome on weekends only. All readers and healers have a minimum of three years of experience.

They are also scheduling a group trip to Sedona, Arizona in 2017 (spaces are limited & going quickly), so call or visit today if interested in finding out more or registering for the trip!

For more information, call 203-344-9311. Location: Albertson Memorial Church (entrance in back), 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. See ad, page 29.

The Primping Place First Area Spa to Offer Hair Restoration System

T

he Primping Place in Stamford is now the first spa in Fairfield County and the second in the state to offer the XTC Hair Growth Systems and XTC Hair Boost System.

The XTC System uses stateof-the-art hair loss lasers and Before advanced hair loss products to help customers suffering from thinning hair or hair loss.

Lisa Mecca-Primps, founder of The Primping Place, is completing her studies to become Connecticut’s second trichologist. Trichologists are hair and scalp specialists who After diagnose the causes of hair fall, hair breakage, hair thinning, miniaturization of hairs and diseases of the scalp. They treat according to the cause. They are not medically trained per se, but are clinically educated to identify and treat issues with the hair and scalp.

Mecca-Primps is excited to offer the XTC Hair Growth System, which has been medically tested and FDA-proven to be safe and effective at hair restoration. Laser light therapy is a non-surgical, scientific approach to dealing with hair loss, thinning hair and scalp problems.

The Primping Place has been offering clients a wide array of rejuvenating treatments for more than 20 years. In early 2017, the spa will relocate to a new medical office location on Summer Street in Stamford.

For more information,email ThePrimpingPlace@gmail.com or call 203-325-9565. Location: 500 Newfield Ave, #9, Stamford. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 58.

Hunter Healing Hands

Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Jessica Hunter

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Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses

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203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 10

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Cupping Therapy Workshop in Norwalk

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oin Debra Diers on November 12 from 1-4pm to learn about traditional therapeutic cupping and how you can apply it to your own life and health-related needs. The afternoon event will be held at Acupuncture Healing of Connecticut in Norwalk.

Diers, a licensed acupuncturist and registered nurse, has been in private practice for 25 years in Glastonbury.

Cupping has been used for centuries by almost every culture to help heal, rejuvenate and invigorate. Passed down through generations by grandmothers and folk healers, cupping has played an important role in self-care in many settings. Learn how to help alleviate everyday aches and pains, relax and loosen stiff muscles, and invigorate blood flow and synovial fluids in painful joints.

Learn how to get rid of a cold in the early stages, and help alleviate menstrual cramps, carpal tunnel and tendonitis. You will learn the correct techniques for application, when and where to cup, and when, where and who not to cup.

There will be demonstrations as well as opportunity for hands on cupping so you can experience it for yourself.

The event is $49 per person. Seating is limited.

To register, call 203-216-2548. Location: Acupuncture Healing of Connecticut, 166 East Ave, Ste 201, Norwalk. See ad, page 17.

Mindfulness Based Coaching

with Janet Kathleen Ettele Certified Life Coach • Author

Specializing in Life’s Transitions

Divorce • Empty nest • Significant change

Integrating conventional coaching with mindfulness, eastern philosophy & wisdom to create balance, peace, and fulfilling change in all facets of your life.

janetettele.com

janet@janetettele.com

203-778-8638

A Farewell Tribute

N

atural Awakenings Publishing Corporation’s family of 95 magazines bid a fond farewell to company President Larry Levine, with many joining in on a call and sending notes, prayers and good thoughts prior to his passing on September 23. Levine enthusiastically contributed his all with a host of talents focused on forwarding our collective mission of providing publishers and readers with the tools needed to help us all create a healthier, more sustainable world together.

Founder and CEO Sharon Bruckman honors her partner, saying, “Our home office Larry Levine and publishers are truly saddened to lose the beautifully loving, guiding light that Larry generously shared with us throughout the past 12 years. His impact on our lives and Natural Awakenings‘ success will continue to bless our readers. We will miss him dearly.”

One of Levine’s last gifts to the company was recommending Pat McGroder as vice president of franchise development. “We welcome Pat, already feeling blessed by the 24 years of experience he brings in highly successful publishing and franchising endeavors,” says Bruckman.

McGroder will now also assume some of the operational Pat McGroder responsibilities formerly managed by Levine.

Be thankful for

what you have; you’ll end up having more.

If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough. ~Oprah Winfrey

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation’s home office is located in Naples, FL. Visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com or call 239-434-9392 for more information. eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

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

Happiness • Strength • Hope • Wisdom • Coping • Flourishing

Ann C. Reeves, Psy. D, CAPP Licensed Psychologist

203-451-6208

annreevespsych@optonline.net • www.annreevespsychology.com Offices in Newtown & Wilton, CT

ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

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Massage Therapy

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

Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535

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

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com 12

Fairfield County Edition

newsbriefs “O”Zone Fitness Training Center Celebrates Four Years

F

airfield residents Ken and Deb O’Toole are celebrating their fourth year of operating the “O”Zone Fitness Training Center in Fairfield.

The goal at the private training center is a more holistic approach in working with the entire body with the goal of optimal function.

Foam rolling, dynamic warmup sequences and full-body athletic movements are part of the routines.

“O”Zone Fitness Team Postural awareness and understanding how to use stabilization muscles are integrated into a comprehensive fitness routine. “O” Zone Fitness relies minimally on traditional equipment usually found in a typical gym.

The Adult Athletic program is about regaining dynamic movement back into your lifestyle with running drills, agility speed ladder drills and reactive exercises. With Core Concepts, you will learn how to use your core muscles correctly.

For more information, visit OzoneFitnessTrainingCenter.com or call 203-690-1470 to schedule a complimentary fitness assessment. Location: 338 Commerce Dr, Fairfield.

New Monthly Group Provides Diabetic Support

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oin Drs. Andrew Cummins and Mara Davidson, both naturopathic physicians at Shalva Clinic, for a new Integrative and Whole Health Diabetic Wellness Support Group. The first meeting on November 1 will be titled Have Your Cake and Eat it Too! Part 1. The group meetings will be held the first Tuesday of every month at Shalva Clinic from 6:30-8pm.

Whether you are a pre-diabetic, type I diabetic, type II diabetic, “type 1.5” diabetic or know someone affected by the disease, the group will offer diabetic support and education. The group will offer participants the opportunity to gain support and learn from one another, share experiences, strengthen knowledge and feel empowered.

Shalva Clinic, LLC is a naturopathic clinic offering a wide range of women’s and men’s health services as well as pediatric care. In addition to naturopathic services, the center offers acupuncture, bodywork and energy healing, cold laser therapy, holistic pelvic care, hydrotherapy, intravenous nutritional therapy, health coaching and more.

For more information, visit ShalvaClinic.org/Calendar/DiabeticSupportGroup/. Location: Shalva Clinic Westport, 8 Lincoln St (back entrance, first floor), Westport. See ad, page 5.

natural awakenings

coverartist

ROBIN QUEEN FINKELSTEIN Psychospiritual Counselor SlowMedicineTherapist.com 914-218-3113 office

Barn Owl Laura Tucker “Art, for me, is a way to tell a story and evoke a feeling,” says cover artist Laura Tucker, who loves to use her brush to capture the spirit of the birds and other wildlife she encounters in and around her backyard. Tucker often layers bright, airy colors to create striking abstract backgrounds to her wildlife portraits intended to “express the animal’s aura.”

The cover work was inspired by a barn owl the artist spotted in one of the trees surrounding her Huntsville, Alabama, home. “A lot of wildlife frequent our yard, but barn owls are rare. They have very expressive faces, which I wanted to capture,” says Tucker.

The artist has shown her work in group and solo exhibitions in Birmingham, Alabama, and the Naples, Florida, area, in addition to a previous appearance on the cover of Natural Awakenings.

The artist’s portfolio can be viewed at Etsy.com/shop/TuckerArt. eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

13

Message Received

Conventional Grocery Chains Go Organic Arina P Habich/Shutterstock.com

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

Thanksgiving Lite photo courtesy of the Farm Sanctuary

Turning the Tide for Turkeys Turkeys and Thanksgiving go together for 88 percent of Americans surveyed by the National Turkey Federation. Each year, more than 46 million turkeys provide the entrée for gatherings, yielding leftovers for sandwiches, stew, chili, casseroles and turkey burgers. In 2011, 736 million pounds of turkey were consumed in the U.S., while a few lucky birds avoided the chopping block.

The pardoning of a White House turkey began in 1863 when President Lincoln’s son, Tad, interceded on behalf of the bird and its life was spared.

Now a tradition, two dressed birds and one live turkey are delivered to the White House each year. The live bird is “pardoned” and lives out its life on a historical farm.

At the Farm Sanctuary, turkeys get sponsored or adopted instead of eaten.

“Turkeys are friendly and follow you around like puppy dogs. They’ll try to sit on your lap to be petted,” says Gene Baur, president and co-founder of the sanctuary’s New York and two California locations. “At our Celebration for the Turkeys, we feed them cranberries, pumpkin pie and squash. People visit to see them enjoy it. Guests’ snacks are vegan.”

Hundreds of turkeys have been adopted and given a lifelong home since the program’s inception in 1986. More than 8,000 people pledged to sponsor a turkey living at the sanctuary in a recent year, proving it’s not necessary to be a president to pardon a turkey.

Source: FarmSanctuary.org/giving/ adopt-a-turkey 14

Fairfield County Edition

The Kroger grocery chain, with nearly 2,500 U.S. stores, including subsidiaries Ralphs, Fry’s, King Soopers and Food 4 Less, has decided to go all in on the organic food market as a follow-up to the 2012 release of its Simple Truth brand of organic foods. Kroger President Michael Ellis says, “We’re really just answering the customer’s call for more and better,” giving Whole Foods Market

more competition.

Walmart has also begun to satisfy the growing health concerns of its shoppers by integrating organic options in its supermarkets. Now the challenge is for organic farming—which intentionally works to minimize agricultural impacts on the health of people and the planet—to meet the greater demand nationwide for healthier foods. Although implementation will vary depending on climate, experts advise that it begins with farms adopting healthy soil practices. It’s up to consumers to keep the momentum going.

Source: Healthy-Holistic-Living.com

ecotip Bleep Cheap

Quality Clothes are Planet-Friendly The temptation to buy inexpensive clothes whispers, “It’s smart to trend with the latest fad,” or “Disposable wear can be tossed if it gets stained,” or “I can wear this outfit only once for a special event.” The lure to buy future throwaways seems especially prevalent during the holiday season of gifting and gatherings.

Consumers can fall into the cycle of buying from inexpensive chain stores, wearing items a few times and then discarding them during spring cleaning purges. According to The Atlantic magazine, Americans now buy five times as much clothing annually as they did in 1980, yet recycle or donate only 15 percent of it. They simply discard 10 million tons as waste, reports the Huffington Post.

Conscious consumers consider the extended consequences of their purchases.

The production and transporting of an average shirt, for example, can deliver about nine pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, reports Eve Andrews, culture editor for Grist.com.

She offers five tips: buy less; shop smarter and only for what’s truly needed; look for durability and design that won’t fall apart or look dated in a few months; decrease frequency of laundering to increase the life of the garment; and donate what no longer works.

Buying items that are durable, timeless and made under fair labor conditions from selected organic, resale and outlet stores that sell high-end clothing that lasts at reduced prices will save money over time and reduce resource abuse and waste.

Five top outlet chains for superior and lasting value per a 2016 Consumer Reports readers survey are Bon Worth, L.L. Bean, Haggar, OshKosh B’gosh and Izod.

Quality labels are welcomed by consignment stores, so the wearer can even retrieve some of the purchase price for gently-used classics. Giving used threads to thrift shops, churches, The Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries is another way to extend the life of items, help others and save landfill space. Another option is to cut up portions of clothing earmarked for disposal so they can live on as cleaning rags for home and vehicles.

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Stoned Doggies Dangers vs. Benefits of Pet Marijuana

As of June, half of the states and the District of Columbia have legalized the use of medical marijuana for humans.

People wonder if it’s also suited for pets, too, and need to investigate the parameters and consequences carefully.

“It’s not legal in any state for veterinarians to prescribe or recommend medical marijuana,” says Dr. Carol Osborne, owner of Ohio’s Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic. “Done properly, it could have applications, but it’s not standardized, dosage amounts are unknown and without U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulation, there’s no guarantee what you think you’re buying is what you get.

“Dogs that get into the stash or sneak-eat marijuana-laced food can experience wobbling when walking, trembling and potential seizures,” Osborne notes. “I haven’t heard of any cases of death, but as with any prescription drug, practice responsible ownership by keeping it out of the reach of curious children and pets.”

“THC [tetrahydrocannabinol] in marijuana produces the high,” explains Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Robert Silver, author of Medical Marijuana & Your Pet: The Definitive Guide. “Dogs are extremely sensitive to THC, much more so than any other species studied.”

Silver believes there are uses for cannabinoid oil, derived from hemp, which has very low levels of THC; pet owners in an end-of-life situation with no hope of recovery have used it to ease pain, stimulate appetite and add quality to final days.

Reference: Tinyurl.com/PetMedical MarijuanaGuide

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November 2016

15

healthbriefs

Acupressure Eases Fatigue Heavy TV Watching Linked in Cancer Survivors B to Poor Bone Health

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NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER 203.874.4333 2013 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615 • www.nhawc.com 16

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Music Makes Exercise Easier

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istening to music during a workout or any extended, physically demanding activity can reduce fatigue and improve performance. New research published in Psychophysiology shows that as individuals work out, their attention gradually shifts from the activity around them to internal sensations. Over an extended period, this attention shift creates a sense of exertion. Listening to music while exercising can help shift focus away from the internal fatigue and back to the external world.

Researchers from the UK’s Brunel University and University of London tested 19 healthy adults that performed two physical exertion tests while listening to either music or silence. The scientists monitored brain activity using EEG and measured task performance. While listening to music, participants showed both reduced fatigue and decreased stressrelated brainwaves. They also performed their tasks more effectively than they did when music wasn’t being played. wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com

Alena Ozerova/Shutterstock.com

study published in the Journal for Bone and Mineral Research this summer suggests that excessive TV watching during childhood may be associated with lower bone mineral content in young adulthood.

The researchers followed 1,181 children over time and measured their weekly hours of TV watching at ages 5, 8, 10, 14, 17 and 20. The bone mineral content (BMC) of each was measured at age 20. The study found that individuals that routinely watched more than 14 hours a week had lower BMC for their whole body and in their arms than those that watched less. Higher BMC helps protect the body against osteoporosis later in life.

While all screen time should be monitored in children, TV appears to be the most harmful medium. A report published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine studied 111 children between the ages of 3 and 8 and measured their TV viewing and other screen time, as well as their blood pressure levels. The study linked higher blood pressure with excessive TV viewing, but did not find the same link between the condition and computer usage.

coka/Shutterstock.com

A

reast cancer survivors are often plagued by chronic fatigue that lasts long after their treatment is finished. They have few options to relieve the condition, but acupressure shows promise.

A study published this summer in the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that acupressure can significantly improve two symptoms of fatigue experienced by breast cancer survivors: sleep quality and quality of life.

The researchers tested 424 women that had completed cancer treatments at least a year prior to the study. They were divided into three groups—one self-administered relaxing acupressure and another stimulating acupressure, while the control group followed a conventional care plan. After six weeks, fatigue was reduced from 70 percent to 43 percent among those receiving acupressure, with two-thirds of the women in the acupressure groups reaching levels of fatigue considered normal.

The relaxing acupressure group showed substantial improvements in sleep quality compared with the conventional care group at week six, but the two groups reached parity at week 10. The relaxing acupressure group was the only one that showed improvements in quality of life, making it a reasonable, low-cost option for managing fatigue symptoms.

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www.AcupunctureHealingCT.com | Locations in Norwalk, Trumbull, & Southport, CT

O

hio State University researchers have discovered a correlation between bacteria in the gut and behavior in toddlers. Scientists studied the bacterial microbes in stool samples from 77 girls and boys between the ages of 18 months and 27 months, while mothers filled out a questionnaire describing their children’s level of emotional reactivity.

The study found that positive behavioral traits occurred more frequently in children with the most diverse types of gut bacteria. These included mood, curiosity, sociability and impulsivity.

The correlation was particularly strong in boys.

Lisa Christian, Ph.D., a researcher with the Ohio State Institute for Behavioral Medicine research, and her coauthor, Microbiologist Michael Bailey, Ph.D., plan to use the information to help uncover some mysteries related to the origin of chronic illness. “There is substantial evidence that intestinal bacteria interact with stress hormones; the same hormones that have been implicated in chronic illnesses like obesity and asthma,” explains Christian. “A toddler’s temperament gives us a good idea of how they react to stress. This information, combined with an analysis of their gut microbiome, could ultimately help us to detect and prevent chronic health issues [from developing] earlier.”

Source: Ohio State University Center for Clinical and Translational Science

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November 2016

17

Mastering Yoga

The yoga community in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties has never been more vibrant! This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice. experience improved hand-eye coordination and balance, increased muscle tone, decreased levels of aggression and self-harming behaviors, reduced levels of anxiety, improved digestion and smoother social interactions.

How to Prepare for This Specialized Yoga Class

Yoga Improves Lives of Autistic Children

by Lisa DiFalco

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utism and autism spectrum disorders can be challenging for affected individuals and their families.

However, children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities create an opportunity for service providers to think differently and find ways to embrace everyone within their practice, helping children, teens and adults with autism, Asperger’s and other special needs. Brian Aubin is that type of wellness provider, offering customized yoga instruction focused on the specific needs of those with autism and special needs.

He is also different from the average yoga instructor in another way.

Aubin has a personal connection to autism. Although now a yoga instructor on a mission, he was diagnosed with Asperger’s, a “mild form” of autism, at the relatively old age of 17. He was spurred by the benefits he felt when he started to practice yoga in 2013, and he began to train as a yoga teacher. He has dedicated his life to providing yoga to an underserved population and offers classes throughout Long Island.

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Fairfield County Edition

How Yoga Benefits the Autistic

Autistic children can present with mild to more severe symptoms. However, the study “Efficacy of the ‘Get Ready to Learn’ Yoga Program Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders” and research like it have shown that even children that cannot verbalize can perform yoga poses and understand yoga instruction. According to the study, the yoga program “reduces irritability, lethargy, social withdrawal, hyperactivity and noncompliance in children with autism spectrum disorders.” Children that use yoga are calmer and find it easier to handle sensory overload and distress.

Yoga is a tool empowering the child to self-regulate emotions and achieve calm in an overstimulating world.

There are many groups that can benefit from yoga, including those with high-functioning autism, classic autism, pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger’s syndrome and other special needs. Beyond the sense of peace and reduction of stress for participants, those with autism or special needs can

natural awakenings

There are only a few adaptations for parents and caregivers that would like their child with autism or special needs to try yoga. As with many activities for children with special needs, a parent or aide must be present with the child. Children should wear comfortable clothing and parents do not need to bring additional equipment. Mats, blocks, blankets and bolsters are provided by Aubin during his classes. To encourage relaxation, he will turn off the lights during instruction. Lights are known to be potentially overstimulating for those on the spectrum. Poses may be modified for certain individuals as needed. Aubin offers a gentle and therapeutic form of yoga in his program to calm the body and mind and reduce stress.

Parents of participants in yoga sessions note some obvious changes, already reflected in research on the topic.

Children with autism and special needs that practice yoga regularly demonstrate reduced anxiety and aggression, as well as a lessening of obsessive behaviors and self-stimulatory behaviors.

Aides that are present have never seen the students sit for so long. Some of the non-verbal students that participate in yoga classes at the Developmental Disability Institute have begun saying om and shanti.

Aubin’s yoga classes are offered throughout Long Island at Yoga Darshana, in West Babylon; Pixie Dust, in Bay Shore; and other locations listed on BrianAubinYoga.com/my-schedule.

Lisa DiFalco is a health and wellness writer based on Long Island and owner of the copywriting service Copybridge.net.

yogabriefs New Norwalk Studio Strikes a Pose

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ogaSol: Bikram Yoga Norwalk just celebrated its grand opening in October. The new studio has antimicrobial, slip-resistant flooring and an environmentally efficient heating system in addition to a Sonos stereo system, lockers, showers and more. The studio itself has an 11-foot-high ceiling with 20 recessed lights and four stereo speakers.

The studio, independently owned by Dan Markowitz, will provide Bikram yoga as well as Vinyasa and Yin yoga classes. A variety of 60, 75 and 90-minute classes will be taught by Bikram-certified teachers.

For more information, visit YogaSol.com. Location: YogaSol, 362 Main St, Norwalk.

Take Off for a Yoga Retreat in Costa Rice

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aily Cryan and Justine Miller, both 500-hour Ayurvedic yoga teachers, will be hosting an all-inclusive week of yoga, transformation, restoration and adventure in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, from February 18-25, 2017. At Hotel Nautilus, an environmentally friendly retreat center, attendees will wake up for morning yoga and freshly prepared organic vegetarian meals alongside miles of quiet coastline.

The retreat includes Hotel Nautilus accommodations for seven nights, three organic vegetarian meals per day, daily yoga ranging from moderately paced to restorative, a Create an Ayurvedic Routine self care workshop, a Yoga For Transformation workshop, a stand-up paddle board session, a day trip to Tortuga Island, a canpoy tour of the Costa Rican jungle and much more. Airfare to and from the San Jose and Tambor airports is not included in the cost.

For more information, visit PradipikaYoga.com/Vacations.

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November 2016

19

Drum Circles Create Connection with Others

Drumming for Connection and Expression

Many Intentional Benefits of Drum Circles

by Herman Olivera

W

e have the natural inborn ability to optimize our health through the power of sound and participating in drum circles. We don’t need to own an expensive drum and skill; all we have to do is show up and fully participate by expressing our current feelings through the drum or percussion instrument. Although it’s more about participating than performance, intentionality is key.

There is no accurate evidence to prove when music actually began, but early indigenous tribal civilizations around the globe have all recognized that the world has a vibration and an infinite amount of different sounds. Modern-day scientists are in agreement that everything in the universe is in the state of vibration. Our bodies, the planets and all things found in nature—such as gorillas pounding their chests and or even the chair we are sitting in—are in a state of sound.

Music is all around us. Even before we were brought into this earth, our very first sound was our mother’s heartbeat.

We live in a fast-paced technological world where we are unconsciously distracted and disconnected from the true communication with others. It’s imperative to get back to basics and allow ourselves to get primal to restore our natural rhythm. The term, “being of sound mind and body,” comes from our bodies and mind being in a healthy state of resonance. The human body is designed to heal itself, but it does require routine maintenance. When we aren’t mindful and neglect to take care of ourselves, this is where things become unbalanced, leading to a state of “dis-ease”, which causes us to vibrate out of harmony and ease.

We can’t fully diminish modern medicine and its vital role. But just imagine that there is natural way to restore our rhythm and harmony simply by participating in a drum circle. The basis of sacred drumming is its noninvasive, transformative and therapeutic healing approach.

20

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

In today’s world, we like to think we are super social beings because we have hundreds of friends on social media.

However, it’s actually quite the contrary as society today is often fragmented and lacking in human interaction. More people have the option to work from home, shop online, and traditional family and community systems of support have changed dramatically by taking the human equation out of routines. Drum circles provide an opportunity to connect with like-minded people at a deeper level when there is a shared experience of participating in a community setting or event.

Drumming Enhances Overall Wellness

In order to perform at our best on a daily basis, we need to actually create time to slow things down and unplug our overworked mind and bodies. Drumming induces deep states of relaxation, meditation and healing experiences.

It reduces stress, anxiety and tension, which studies have shown that, if left untreated, can lead to diseases and lifethreatening illnesses.

Beating the drum helps in endorphin production, which eases certain individuals that experience chronic pain or discomfort. It also aids participants to reframe and get into a mental zone where they aren’t focused on their pain but rather become engrossed in the synchronistic rhythm of the circle.

Drumming activity strengthens the immune system, which studies have shown not only defends us from catching a common cold, but also increases T cell counts to help the body fight viruses and cancer. It also aids in releasing negative feelings and emotional blockages.

Drumming is all about intention and expressing our current emotional state on the skin of the drums. If we experience a challenging day, take it out on the drum and speak through it. The natural phenomena of the frequency we create—combined with our pure intentions—will lead to healing.

Drumming is Simply Fun

Drumming has many more benefits, such as allowing our brainwaves to reach a higher consciousness. At the end of the day, what’s really important is that drumming and participating in a drum circle is simply fun. We need to experience it for ourselves. We also need to know that we are a vibratory instrument all on our own. We can spontaneously express ourselves with simple home-made instruments—such as an empty coffee can, placing a few beans in a bottle to rattle, hitting two sticks, splashing in the tub or simply slapping our knees, chest or any body part. The feeling is even more intense and exciting when we share with a community of drummers. Drumming is fun for all ages and provides a great way to integrate the mind, body and spirit.

Herman Olivera is a certified life and business coach, shamanic practitioner and drum circle facilitator. He is a featured teacher at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown, where he facilitates regularly scheduled drum circles. Connect at HermanOlivera.com or Herman@HermanOlivera.com.

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November 2016

21

communityspotlight

Valley Spirit Cooperative

Wellness Center Meets Art Salon in Washington Depot

by Nicole Miale

W

hen Kristin Kunscience in Oriental medicine hardt returned to from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, her Connecticut New Mexico, and has been hometown of Washington practicing Chinese medicine Depot, from Pennsylvania for 22 years. While Kancher two years ago to live near her and Stewart admit to some father Hank, she didn’t know initial misgivings about the then it was the first step in ambitious nature of the plan, a journey that would send Kunhardt—the trio’s “vision her hometown roots even ve keeper”—immediately recogdeeper. As she and her two Kristin Kunhardt nized the potential. business partners prepare

“I was able to see in for the grand opening on my mind’s eye this beautiful November 4 and 5 of Valley meditation and movement Spirit Cooperative Welln Kunhardt is pleased and to announce that she has center for Jampa,” she says. ness Center, she is excited “When the space became to give back to the town and center and studio space featuring three unique available, it was too right. It area that she loves. community “The small New ounding withEngland services and products that was in the heart of my hometowns in this area are so spetown, a town I wanted to give cial and unique,” she says. back to in service. We had to nsformation.

“It’s really important to us to go for it.” serve the community here.”

The cooperative’s space is separated into two

Valley Spirit Cooperative Jampa Stewart areas. Studio A is a studio is a healing arts center and studio space featuring three where Stewart and select distinct businesses with a area practitioners will teach various movement classes as common goal: to contribute to the surrounding commuwell as offer meditation and nity with services and prodother human potential and ucts that support personal healing workshops. There are and communal healing and three private treatment rooms positive transformation. The where clients may come for expansive collective began acupuncture, massage, Reiki as a simple search for office and other healing modalities. space. Kunhardt and business Studio Z will house Kunhardt’s Lee Kancher partner Lee Kancher wanted Indigo Sky design and retail to operate their separate businesses space, including a gallery to showcase Jampaout Stewart of centrally located shared space Lee M. herKancher photography and the creative work of so they might co-create their various other local artists and artisans. All the art artistic enterprises. It then expanded to a in the gallery and in the wellness center on, acupuncture, tai chi and other ancient will Asian larger vision that includes the wellness be available for sale and exhibits will offerings of Jampa Stewart and Healing rotate on a monthly basis. Sharing Studio o A” will also be a centrally located space in Tao Institute. Stewart holds a master of Z is Kancher’s Right Brain Group, offer-

Right Brain Group

in Washington Depot CT.

ga and pilates and offer therapeutic massage and 22

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

igo Sky World’s design and retail space as Ms.

ing graphic arts and web design for small business, practitioners, and those seeking a more holistic approach to their business marketing needs.

“One of the things that links us all together is the arts,” Stewart explains.

“We all have artistic backgrounds. At the cooperative we offer healing arts, movement arts, visual arts, graphic arts.

The synergy of the collective energies feels like streams coming together to form a rushing river.”

The wellness center will feature a staff of independent local practitioners who have decades of training and experience behind them. “The people coming to work with us have a wide variety of services to offer the clients,” Kunhardt explains. “They are amazing local practitioners who we have met organically, at farmers markets, events, in town. We are establishing a platform and place for people to come and experience the healing power and potential of their own bodies.”

This includes people of all ages, from children to seniors. In fact, the cooperative plans to particularly cater to those over the age of 50, intending to support their efforts to age with grace and wisdom. This passion informs the cooperative’s slogan, which is “Spark Your Spirit.” The role of the spirit is a critically important and often poorly understood notion, Stewart says, having clear impact on the eventual well-being of any individual, family or business.

“If the spirit is strong, even if the disease is serious, the prognosis is good,” he explains. “If the spirit is weak, even if the disease is mild, the prognosis is poor.”

Kunhardt extends that message to the wider area: “When you take care of yourself, your spirit is strong. That then has a positive impact on the health of your family and extends to the larger community.”

The cooperative creates a destination venue that offers something for everyone, Kunhardt explains. In the process, the businesses involved in the cooperative will support each other as well as bring energy and vitality to other merchants and businesses in Washington Depot. That includes marketing support for local businesses through Kancher’s Right Brain Group. He started his career in the healing arts, training in shiatsu and acupressure at the Meridian

Wellness Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania.

He later decided to pursue a career in art and design and discovered his passion: graphic arts meets healing arts.

By combining his skills in graphic art, computer technology and bodywork, Kancher integrates research, organization and sound business planning with quality computer programming and cutting edge design aesthetics.

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Kristin and her father Hank In addition to the regular offerings and services, Valley Spirit will host retreats, seminars, music and performing art offerings and pop-up galleries.

Jampa Kunhardt is in talks with area businesses about beginning a First Friday movement in the new year to bring more people to town and invite them to stay longer in the evenings.

Valley Spirit Cooperative’s grand opening takes place on November 4 from 5-9pm and November 5 from 10am-4pm. After a break, evening activities will resume at 7pm. Events will include blessing ceremonies from various indigenous and ancient traditions; tai chi and qi gong demonstrations; meditation experiences; the opening of the art gallery featuring Kunhardt’s photography and the paintings and prints of local artist Nancy Lasar; opportunities to talk to practitioners about their various healing modalities; music; refreshments; and more.

For more information, visit ValleySpirit Coop.com, email Info@ValleySpirit Coop.com or call 860-619-2788.

Location: 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. See ad, back cover.

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

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STAY SHARP Powerful Ways to Avoid Mental Decline

by Lisa Marshall

A

slow descent into dementia seemed inevitable for a 66-yearold man that had been misplacing his keys, missing appointments and struggling at work. He failed doctor-administered cognitive quizzes and tested positive for a gene variant linked to an exponentially higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A brain scan revealed scattered clusters of sticky, amyloid plaque—a hallmark of the disease. His hippocampus, or memory center, had shrunk to rank in the lowest 17 percent of men his age.

Told there wasn’t much that could be done, he sought the help of University of California, Los Angeles Alzheimer’s researcher Dale Bredesen, a neurologist and founding president of the independent Buck Institute for Research on Aging. He recommended a personalized, 36-point plan, including a high-fat/low-carb diet, intermittent

24

Fairfield County Edition

fasting, strict sleep schedule, select dietary supplements and other lifestyle changes. Within three months, family members reported marked improvements in his memory. At 10 months, brain scans revealed his hippocampus had grown 12 percent.

“Such improvements are unprecedented,” says Bredesen, who described this and nine other hopeful cases in a provocative paper published in June in the journal Aging. “These are the first examples of a reversal of cognitive decline in pre- and early Alzheimer’s patients.”

Addressing the Sources

Bredesen is among a small but growing group of researchers, physicians, caregivers and patients challenging the conventional wisdom that the road to dementia goes one way, with no cure or repair of damage done. They argue that

natural awakenings

the key to both prevention and reversal, at least in early stages, is to pinpoint its numerous drivers—from nutritional and hormonal deficiencies and exposure to infection to environmental toxins and harmful drugs—and attack them simultaneously. It’s a stark departure from the classic, often unsuccessful, one-pill treatment approach. Of the 244 clinical trials for Alzheimer’s drugs between 2002 and 2012, all but one failed.

“Imagine having a roof with 36 holes in it, and your drug patched one hole. You still have 35 leaks,” says Bredesen, who believes his synergistic approach—the Bredesen Protocol—can likely make Alzheimer’s drugs work better or render them unnecessary. Skeptical colleagues point out that Bredesen’s paper described only 10 case studies, not a clinical trial. “It is intriguing, but not enough to make recommendations to physicians or patients,” says Keith Fargo, Ph.D., director of scientific programs and outreach for the Chicagobased Alzheimer’s Association. “The current consensus in the scientific community is that we do not have a way to reverse dementia.”

While agreeing that a larger study is needed, Neurologist David Perlmutter, of Naples, Florida, whose bestsellers Brain Maker and Grain Brain promote nutritional changes for supporting brain health, considers Bredesen’s study revolutionary. “To reverse Alzheimer’s in one patient is monumental, much less 10,” says Perlmutter.

They recently presented together at a conference organized by Sharp Again Naturally, a New York nonprofit that educates patients and caregivers about natural means of slowing and reversing cognitive decline.

After losing her mother to Alzheimer’s, the nonprofit’s co-founder, Jacqui Bishop, 74, stopped her own frightening decline by changing her diet and getting her thyroid hormone levels under control via supplements.

Now she’s helping others do the same.

She says, “We are trying to change the conversation from one of despair to one of hope.”

Mending Body and Brain

Key to Bredesen’s approach is the notion that instead of being one disease, Alzheimer’s consists of three sub-types

with distinct drivers: inflammation or infection; harmful environmental exposures; and/or lack of neuron-nurturing hormones. To determine which one to target, he tests patients for blood-sugar, inflammation and hormone levels, heavy metals and critical nutrients such as D and B vitamins. Then he crafts a personalized plan.

He notes that the 10 years it can take to progress from subtle decline to full-blown Alzheimer’s provides a huge opportunity. “Ideally, we want people to come in when they have mild impairment or are asymptomatic,” says Bredesen, advising that tests be done for the APOE4, or “Alzheimer’s gene” in one’s 40s. “People have not wanted to know in the past because they’ve been told there is nothing they can do about it. We completely disagree.”

One way to stay cognitively sharp is to eat fewer carbs (which boost blood sugar) and eat more fat, says Perlmutter.

“There is a clear relationship between elevated levels of blood sugar and increased risk of Alzheimer’s.”

One study, published in 2013 in the New England Journal of Medicine, tracked 2,067 healthy adults for seven

Lifestyle changes can prevent and slow cognitive decline.

Some say they also reverse it. years and found that the higher their average glucose level, even if they weren’t diabetic, the more likely they were to develop dementia. For instance, those with a level of 115 milligrams per deciliter were 18 percent more at risk than those measuring 100 milligrams per deciliter.

A 2012 study published in Neurology followed 266 adults for four years and found that those with higher blood sugar saw certain areas of the brain shrink 6 to 10 percent more than those with lower blood sugar. Gluten can also be problematic, advises Perlmutter, when it’s inflammatory and driving brain degeneration.

In contrast, good fat, like that in avocados, fatty fish, coconut oil and walnuts, serves as a foundation for neurons and an efficient, cleanburning fuel source for the brain. This is particularly helpful in someone with early-stage Alzheimer’s, says Bredesen, because the disease can make it harder for the brain to use sugar for fuel. In

some cases, both doctors recommend an extremely low-carb, or “ketogenic” diet (fewer than 60 grams of carbs per day). Starved of carbohydrates, the liver produces fat-like compounds called ketones, a brain-fuel source shown to stimulate growth of new neural networks.

Bredesen also recommends 12 hours of fasting each night, with zero food intake within three hours of going to sleep. Fasting promotes a process called autophagy, by which the brain essentially cleans itself of damaged cellular material. Eight hours of sleep is also vital. According to University of Rochester research, the space between brain cells opens up during sleep, allowing cleansing channels of fluid to flow more freely. “If you were operating your house 24/7 with no time to rest or clean, it would be disastrous,” says Bredesen. “The same is true of your brain.”

Also, they say, keep teeth clean because bacterial infections, including

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those in the gums, have been shown to hasten formation of neuron-killing plaque. Also critically examine the prescription drugs being ingested. A recent study of 74,000 people published in JAMA Neurology found that regular use of heartburn drugs like Prilosec and Nexium increased dementia risk by 42 to 52 percent. Meanwhile, anticholinergic drugs like Benadryl and statin drugs prescribed to manage cholesterol have also been linked to increased dementia. “We see ‘statin brain’ all the time,” observes PerlmutIC ad portrait press.pdf 6/20/16 10:33 AM ter, who says 1once patients go off the

drugs, they tend to get better.

False Hope or Sound Advice

Fargo says researchers are keenly interested in many of the ideas in Bredesen’s paper. Although it’s too early to endorse them, numerous studies are underway.

But he wonders if some patients that assert that they’ve reversed dementia actually suffered from something else, like sleep apnea or depression.

Bredesen stands by his research, asserting that the 10 patients in his paper had all been formally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or its precursors. One

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Resources Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org Buck Institute for Research on Aging, BuckInstitute.org David Perlmutter, DrPerlmutter.com MPI Cognition, MPICognition.com Sharp Again Naturally, SharpAgain.org

69-year-old entrepreneur that was planning to close his business after 11 years of mental decline is now expanding it. A 49-year-old woman that scored poorly on neuropsychological tests showed no signs of cognitive decline when she was tested again nine months later. In all, more than 100 people have participated in the program. “We have people that are fourand-a-half years out and doing very well,” he says, noting that such strategies aren’t likely to work for someone with advanced Alzheimer’s.

In some cases, the results may be more subtle, but for those caring for a sick loved one, any positive progress means a lot. Paul Tramontozzi knows.

After his father, then 75, was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, the New York City financial advisor attended a Sharp Again Naturally meeting seeking advice. “I was skeptical, but when the answer you get from everyone else is, ‘There’s nothing you can do,’ you become more willing to listen.” He took his father off his cholesterol medication, fed him spoonfuls of coconut oil daily and put him on a specific supplement regimen. His balance improved and he could participate in family outings again. “If you had told me a few years ago we’d be able to take Dad to a restaurant for his 80th birthday, I would have said, ‘No way.’ But we did.”

Tramontozzi says his father isn’t cured, but the advice he obtained facilitated more time together and insights on how to avoid a similar fate. “These are all things a healthy 37-year-old should be doing right now anyway. I just wish we’d found out earlier.”

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

wisewords

Kelly Brogan on the Truth About Depression

Why Meds Don’t Work and What Does

by Kathleen Barnes

I

ntegrative medical doctor Kelly Brogan, a women’s health psychiatrist and author of A Mind of Your Own, has turned the world of neuropsychiatry on its head by revealing that depression can be reversed without a single prescription drug. She asserts that depression is not caused by imbalanced brain chemistry, but by lifestyle choices that unbalance the entire human physiology.

That’s why conventional antidepressants generally don’t work. She instead prescribes eliminating foods that trigger inflammation in order to rebalance all body systems.

According to the National Institute for Mental Health, depression annually affects 15.7 million adult Americans, or about 8.3 percent of the population.

What’s your stand on the illness model of medicine and how you arrived there?

My training as a conventional doctor was predicated on a disease care model that offers patients only one solution—a prescription. We have never had a shot at true wellness, having handed over our health to corporations loyal to their shareholders, rather than to us.

Conventional medicine is based on the notion that we are born broken and need chemicals to feel better; the body is a machine that needs recalibration; and doctors always know what they are doing. After investing thousands of hours researching what would aid

my own journey back from health challenges, I saw how we have been duped.

Health is our natural state, and we can restore it by natural means. The way to prevent and reverse illness is to communicate with the body in a language it understands.

It’s so simple, yet society considers it an act of rebellion to consider this kind of lifestyle.

Which science supports your conclusion that antidepressant drugs don’t work for most patients?

Taking an antidepressant for depression is like taking a Tylenol for a shard of glass in your foot. Wouldn’t you rather just remove it? Antidepressants don’t work the way we think they do and come with risks, including impulsive violence and debilitating withdrawal.

They also can distract from an opportunity to identify the real cause of symptoms, one that is entirely reversible, in my experience.

Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors like Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil and Lexapro are commonly prescribed to treat depression by boosting serotonin levels. There are many studies debunking their use and effectiveness.

The 2012 Ottawa Hospital Research Institute study led by Paul Albert, Ph.D., concluded, “Direct serotoninenhancing effects of antidepressants disturb energy homeostasis and worsen symptoms.”

As far back as 1998, Irving Kirsch, Ph.D., an expert on the placebo effect at Harvard Medical School, published a meta-analysis of the treatment of 3,000 patients, finding that drugs improved depression in only 27 percent of the cases.

What’s the link between women, high blood sugar, diabetes, obesity and depression?

When I meet a patient that complains about irritability, anxiety, foggy thinking, fatigue and insomnia, I visually plot her day-to-day symptoms on a mental graph. I find that the sugar rollercoaster accounts for the vast majority of diabetes, obesity, depression and other symptoms troubling my patients, especially women.

Sugar disturbs mental health in at least three ways: It starves the brain by causing blood sugar highs and lows that can eventually cause insulin resistance, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s disease; promotes inflammation, which is closely linked to depression; and derails hormones by raising levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body’s effort to balance blood sugars.

Depression also has roots in thyroid imbalances, which are common in women more than 40 years old, and in food intolerances, especially to gluten, soy and corn, that can affect the brain in unpredictable ways.

Is there a general protocol that seems to work best?

While there are no quick fixes, I see turnarounds every week because I help my patients see the benefits of simple choices like avoiding wheat and wheat products. You need a month of serious commitment to quit sugar, alcohol, coffee, wheat and dairy. Then you discover you aren’t an irritable, tired, forgetful person, which is its own incentive toward feeling better. It’s the basis to make choices with your own fully informed consent. Applying such information leads to long-term change and healing.

Kathleen Barnes has authored numerous natural health books, including Food Is Medicine: 101 Prescriptions from the Garden.

Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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The Gut-Brain Connection Mental Wellness Linked to Diet in Many Ways

by David L. Johnston

T

he brain is the most complex organ of the body. Keeping it healthy is critical, especially as we get older.

There are many known causes of poor brain function, including poor diet, nutrient deficiencies, heavy metals and toxins, food allergies and leaky gut syndrome, concussions and trauma, toxic thoughts, genetics, poor sleep and other factors. These issues can lead to inflammation in the brain and affect our everyday brain function and mental wellbeing. The incidence of neurodegenerative and autoimmune conditions—such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s—are increasing in our society. The prevalence of migraines, depression, autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are also on the rise.

Fortunately, there are several natural ways to keep our brains healthy at any stage in our lives; research is showing that our diet is the most important.

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Our gut is intricately connected to our brains. There is a tremendous amount of research on the intestinal microbiome, which refers to the intestinal bacteria—or microbes— and their metabolites and how this complex system interacts to affect our health. Up to 70 percent of our immune system is actually located in our gastrointestinal tract. In addition to our brains, there is an enteric nervous system embedded in the wall of our gut; it contains 500 million neurons and is thought to be largely responsible for our “gut instincts”. It helps respond to environmental threats and sends information to our brains, which then affects our well-being. This communication between our “two brains” runs both ways and is the pathway for how foods affect our moods. For example, fatty foods make us feel good because fatty acids are detected by cell receptors in the lining of our gut; this then sends “warm and fuzzy” nerve signals to our brain from the neurotransmitter serotonin produced in the gut.

It has been estimated that at least 10,000 distinct species of microorganisms cohabit the human gut. Our gut’s bacteria may as well be considered an organ in their own right. And these bacteria are just as vital to our health as our heart, lungs, liver and brain. The latest science tells us the intestinal flora that take up residence on the delicate folds of our intestinal walls do the following…aid in digestion and the absorption of nutrients; create a physical barrier against potential invaders, such as bad bacteria (pathogenic flora), harmful viruses and parasites; act as a detoxification machine, preventing infections and neutralizing toxins from food; profoundly influence the immune system’s response by controlling certain immune cells and preventing autoimmunity; and produce and release enzymes, vitamins and neurotransmitters.

Two key mechanisms that lead to brain degeneration are chronic inflammation and the action of free radicals. A major cause of inflammation stems from a loss of gut integrity or leaky gut. This involves increased gut permeability, such as when the gut is exposed to gliandin, a protein found in gluten.

However the blood-brain barrier also becomes more permeable in response to gluten exposure, allowing inflammatory molecules like cytokines and lipopolysaccharide to enter the brain. In Alzheimer’s patients, there is a direct correlation between the elevated inflammatory biochemical markers called cytokines (such as C-reactive protein and interleukin six), tumor necrosis factor alpha and the degree of cognitive impairment. Eating too many refined sugars and carbohydrates

S&SF NaturalAwakenings_Jan2016_3.5x2_Layout 1 12/17/15 3:52 PM Page

raises the blood sugar and can stir up inflammation in the bloodstream. This has been shown to significantly increase the risk for the development of untreatable dementia.

Proper nutrition and diet is essential to keeping the gut and brain working in balance. The Greek physician and father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, first said: “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” The best foods to boost brain power include healthy fats like coconut oil, olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado, grass-fed organic dairy products, blueberries, vegetables, fermented foods (yogurt, pickles, kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, kombucha tea), nongluten grains (millet, quinoa, rice, amaranth, teff). Foods like red wine, tea, coffee and dark chocolate in moderation contain flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants. It is also important to drink filtered (non-chlorinated) water. Notice that sugar and processed carbohydrates are not included.

Supplements can be very beneficial to assist in gut and brain health. There are five core species of probiotics that are beneficial: lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus brevis, bifidobacterium lactis and bifidobacterium longum. In his book, “Brain Maker”, Dr. David Perlmutter discusses using oral probiotics and even greater success administering probiotics directly into the colon using an enema. He states it’s one of the most powerfully therapeutic interventions he has ever employed in his more than 30 years of practicing medicine and in dealing with brain problems. This is, of course, something to be discussed with the treating physician.

Additional supplements to consider that help establish and sustain a healthy and balanced microbial community in the gut include DHA, turmeric, coconut oil, alpha lipoic acid and vitamin D.

One of the therapies that can help to restore and balance brain function is cranial osteopathy. This treatment is performed by an osteopathic physician; it includes a series of hands-on manipulations of the bones and tissues aimed at restoring the body back to health. An osteopath will work on what’s called the “dura mater”, which is one of the protective layers around the spinal cord that also cushions the brain inside the skull. Other osteopathic techniques include gently manipulating the cranial bones at the base of the skull and on the head around the ears. One goal with these techniques is to restore the flow of cerebrospinal fluid through the central nervous system, which will promote healing.

Skilled osteopaths can feel the rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid and neurological activity in the body with their hands and through light, gentle palpation.

Other helpful therapies for brain function support include meditation, neurofeedback, exercise, psychological support and medication.

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are just thoughts and emotions. As such, we are free to choose a more positive thought to lead us to a better feeling and, ultimately, a more satisfying action.

Taking the time to do this process is a form of mindfulness.

Express

Mindfulness for Stress Relief

by Jasmin Hepburn

M

indfulness. Does the word bring up an image of someone sitting in the lotus position meditating for hours? Does it leave a feeling that we have a life to live and no time for such luxury? Yet we can put mindfulness, responsibilities and stress in the same sentence and create harmony from them. To do that, we first we need to understand what mindfulness is. Ideas about mindfulness abound; for someone new to the practice, it may seem like a challenge to even get started, let alone do it consistently.

Mindfulness is not just meditation

Mindfulness is “living your life as if it really mattered, moment by moment by moment by moment,” according to Jon Kabat-Zinn, the director of the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. That immediately debunks the idea that mindfulness is meditation in the formal sense. On the contrary, it is a habit that we can practice under any circum30

Fairfield County Edition

stance, including – most especially – when we are stressed.

Our modern lifestyle is often so busy and pressured that we either see stress as normal — therefore something we have to live with—or we desire a better way of living but have little idea of how to make it possible. There are, however, ways to use mindfulness to reduce stress so that we can create a more meaningful life.

Recognize

Recognize the triggers that lead us to feeling stressed. These could be related to work, unsatisfying relationships, parenting challenges, health concerns, societal expectations or issues related to personal growth and development. Having identified the triggers, we then pay attention to the negative thoughts and emotions we have about them and can decide on advantageous actions to take to deal with the situation. These steps help us realize that whatever we think and feel can change in each moment.

They help us see that those thoughts and feelings do not define who we are; they

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Express in a manner that promotes awareness of our challenges and represents a deliberate effort to find relief.

Many times we experience conflict between doing what our heart truly wants and living up to societal expectations. Consider being in an unhappy relationship and not wanting to get out of it because of fear of what others may think or say. Although we are the expert on our lives, it is sometimes stressful to take the next step toward our happiness. However, we can use mindfulness to support us in the form of expressive writing.

1. Find a quiet place.

2. Choose an emotional challenge that can be handled now (not a recent traumatic event).

3. Write down deep thoughts and emotions about this challenge. Do not be concerned about grammar or spelling; just let thoughts flow.

4. Write continuously for five to no more than 20 minutes.

5. Do this two to three times per week.

This exercise will help us to explore how the event has affected us; it enables us to choose different thoughts and ways of relating to others and the world. That is mindfulness at work.

Laughter

We can do it at any moment; it lightens our hearts and brings levity to a situation. When we laugh at ourselves, we feel energized and inspired to take life less seriously. We also connect to others through laughter. Looking for a way to do that? Try it during the upcoming holidays. Instead of rushing around doing preparations, let’s slow down and laugh at ourselves and with others. That is an effective way of practicing mindfulness.

Acceptance

As we interact with others, we face situations that affect us so strongly that

we often struggle for control over our lives. We try to control how our children behave, what our politicians do, what is happening globally; the list is endless. Our constant effort to control leaves us stressed. However, practicing acceptance is one mindful way of dealing with such stress. We all have different opinions and priorities, and our experiences, ideals and desires vary.

Therefore, it’s helpful to accept that we will not always agree on everything and things will not always go the way we want them to go. In addition, accepting that situations continually change, as do our responses to them, helps us to focus on a given issue with more interest and openness and with less desire to control it. This mindfulness technique will make a world of difference in our lives.

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eXercise

We know exercise helps to lower stress, but exercising mindfully can be deeply beneficial. Sometimes we jog with ear buds on as we talk on the phone or listen to music. Sometimes we read the paper while on the treadmill without paying attention to the movement of our bodies. We can become mindful of our workout by focusing on how our muscles work, how our feet hit the pavement and the flexibility—or lack thereof—of our limbs in addition to our form and posture. This type of awareness can prevent injuries and help us to monitor our progress deliberately rather than exercising out of a sense of obligation. We also forget about what is stressing us and appreciate living in the moment while witnessing what is happening in our bodies.

The highlighted letters above spell RELAX; it’s an easy way to remember how to practice mindfulness. When we do it with a relaxed attitude and with the intention of being nonjudgmental, we will find our stress levels decreasing considerably. As we develop the habit, we learn to decide and act with awareness even in the most stressful situations.

Jasmin Hepburn is a stress-management coach specializing in helping women rid their lives of unhealthy stress. She also uses energy healing to help her clients remove emotional blocks. Connect at NoNeedtoStress.com.

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Healing Traumatic Experience Somatic Practice Supports Body’s Efforts to Recover

by Valerie Candela

T

rauma is not in the event, it’s in the body. Anything that is too much or too soon can be overwhelming to the body so there are “little traumas” and “big traumas”. In a perfect world, life is easy, fun and goes exactly how we plan. Unfortunately, life is not perfect. Relationships are messy and people are limited. Children experience physical, mental, emotional and spiritual abuse. Health issues can be overwhelming. Medical and/or dental procedures can leave emotional scars. Loss and death can bring loneliness, regret and sorrow. Family conflict and financial devastation can feel life-threatening. Watching a child suffer causes deep pain. Intergenerational trauma feels unfair and hopeless. The scars of the past influence who we are today, for better or for worse.

Our bodies remember each and every experience of our lives. When we take time to notice, we can re-experience feelings and sensations associated with a particular memory. Take a moment and remember a relaxing and peaceful time on the beach, feeling the warm sunshine; hearing the sound of the ocean, watching the children play; smelling the suntan lotion and tasting the salty air. Notice that the body begins 32

Fairfield County Edition

to relax; notice breathing and any other body sensations. Spend several minutes noticing. Now, just for a brief moment, imagine that the beach experience was a near shark attack. Notice how the body reacts rather than responds.

The body knows. The body is brilliant and its primary goal is to protect itself. When we experience threat, the nervous system organizes to survive; it will automatically try to escape with fight, flight or freeze. If the escape is “successful”, the system recovers and strengthens. If the escape fails, the system will experience dysregulation.

Depending on the occurrence, frequency and/or magnitude of dysregulation, the body’s physiology may change and constrict over time. Eventually, with continued distress, a person may experience symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, hypervigilance, rage and or self-sabotaging behaviors. Dysregulation brings on more dysregulation.

The body remembers and holds onto set patterns as a source of defense.

The past colors the present. We adapt to the way things are because we need to function in life. We need to be in the world, keep it together and act “normal”. When someone experiences an overwhelming event—and if the body’s

natural awakenings

activation or resolution cycle does not complete—the person may experience trauma. This is an individual process as not everyone will perceive the same situation in the same way. The triggering event prompts a threat response and the person’s perception creates their reality.

Dr. Peter Levine (TraumaHealing.com) developed a healing process named Somatic Experiencing, which is a systematic approach whereby the person gradually accesses the energies and sensations that are connected to an experience. This gradual, titrated process allows the body to complete miniactivation or resolution cycles, which then bring relief to the system. Over time, the body is able to reorganize and heal. This process is gentle, mindful and profound. When it comes to healing, there is no quick fix. Traditional talk therapy is helpful but does not include the body in its process, which often leads to temporary relief or distraction.

Somatic Experiencing focuses primarily on the body. Once the nervous system reorganizes, healing begins.

In general, children are highly sensitive and their nervous systems have radar-like abilities to instantly register signals around them. Parents generally report improved self-awareness and self-regulation, less anxiety, fewer or no nightmares, less depressed behavior, more willingness to try new things and improved school experiences.

When it comes to children, healing is possible. The truth is that it’s not only the child who has a “problem”, and it’s not only the child who needs to change. The family is a “system” and the whole system may need to focus on self-regulation. This is especially important if there is deep emotional hurt hidden under anger, frustration, blame and shame. In order for the child to truly change, the system may have to change. Once united, healing happens and takes time.

The healthier we are, the healthier our children are. They will mirror their caregivers, which is why they are our greatest healers. As we heal ourselves, we heal our children.

Valerie Candela has a body-based therapeutic practice for adults and children in Stamford, Newtown and Southbury.

Connect at ValerieCandela.com.

healthykids

THE SENSITIVE CHILD How to Nurture altanaka/Shutterstock.com

Special Gifts

by Maureen Healy

It is primarily parenting that decides whether the expression of sensitivity will be an advantage or a source of anxiety. ~Elaine Aron

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ighly sensitive children need extra nurturing care so that they can learn to see their sensitivity as a strength and begin empowering themselves with tools to tap into their positive traits such as insight, creativity and empathy, while simultaneously learning how to manage their rich emotional lives.

Elaine Aron, Ph.D., a practicing psychotherapist in Mill Valley, California, who studies sensitivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging, advises, “A highly sensitive child is among the 15 to 20 percent born with a nervous system that’s highly aware and quick to react to everything.” She offers a free online questionnaire to help assess a child’s level of sensitivity at HSPerson.com/test/ highly-sensitive-child-test.

Highly sensitive children are incredibly responsive to their environments, from sounds and smells to the overall mood of people they encounter. Other indicators may range from a preference for quiet play to noticing details or asking many questions. With a sharpened sense of awareness, they are often gifted intellectually, creatively and emotionally, demonstrating genuine compassion early on.

The downside is that these intensely perceptive children can also be easily overwhelmed by crowds, noises, new situations or sudden changes.

Criticism, defeat and the distress of others deeply affect them.

Parenting a highly sensitive child can be highly rewarding, but some parents find it exhausting. Special skills help in gracefully raising a healthy, happy and well-adjusted sensitive child without wearing ourselves out.

Accept, rather than seek to change them. Embracing a child as being highly sensitive is step one. No one can change them into less sensitive, more traditional kids. Accept their specialness as part of the family’s shared journey.

See it as a gift. It’s easy to get frustrated or angry with a child if they continually cry, withdraw and shy away from social situations. Instead of viewing these behaviors as flaws, see them as providing the child a special gift.

Sensitivity often characterizes artists, innovators, prodigies and great thinkers.

Partner up. Sensitive children respond far better to requests for desired behaviors when acting in partnership with the adults in their life. Harsh discipline can elicit emotional meltdowns

and outbursts of energy in temper tantrums, crying or yelling. Partnering with a child includes learning to avoid their triggers and giving them ready tools to use when they feel overwhelmed, such as breathing exercises. Professional counselors can help shape the relationship.

Focus on strengths. Remembering that a highly sensitive child may be incredibly talented is essential when they are acting out. Training ourselves to see a child’s strengths first—such as their incredible creativity, perceptiveness and keen intellect—helps us accept their challenges, such as being overwhelmed, highly emotional, introverted at times, shy, picky about clothes and other preferences, or overly active.

Create calmness. It’s worth taking the time to create spaces that match a child’s sensibilities. Create a “peace corner” at home designed to deliver the serenity that highly sensitive children crave by using just the right lighting, colors, sounds and surroundings; elements might include headphones, favorite plush toys and coloring markers.

Instill inner discipline. Establishing gentle structure and clear limits with respect goes a long way. Reasonable reminders of what’s needed now and why yield better results than shouting and warnings of consequences.

Connect with peers. Like everyone else, highly sensitive children are drawn to other “birds of a feather”, and getting these kids together to nurture each other’s strengths is good. It may mean some extra effort by parents to help a child find kids that get along together and make play dates.

A highly sensitive child can be steered in a helpful emotional direction by well-adjusted, happy and healthy sensitive adults. Sensitive children need especially good role models because they are learning how to use their incredible gifts in a world that sometimes doesn’t value their inherent worth.

Maureen Healy, of Santa Barbara, CA, runs a mentoring program for highly sensitive children based on her social and emotional learning curriculum for K-8 students, child psychology training and current scientific research. She is the author of Growing Happy Kids and The Energetic Keys to Indigo Kids (HighlySensitiveKids.com).

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therapyspotlight

quickly and easily produce immediate and dramatic results for those suffering from a wide variety of problems, including fears, phobias, anxiety and stress.

Each technique quickly helps to reduce the severity of fear, anger, loss and grief as well as negative thoughts, feelings and emotions related to perceived or real life events.

Hypnosis: Healing is a Matter of the Mind

Natural Relief from Stress, Fear and Anxiety Hypnosis and TFT Offer Calming Tools

by Diane Bahr-Groth

F

or many of us, the day begins with a shrill, piercing alarm shocking us awake. Even before our eyes open, thoughts begin to fill our sleepy minds. We may be bombarded with worries and concerns about loved ones, finances, politics, health, weather, environmental issues and warring nations.

In today’s world, we brace ourselves for the deluge of information and the barrage of instant notifications everywhere we turn. We need only glance at a smartphone, tablet, newspaper headline or news broadcast to realize the world we live in can be fear-provoking and stressful. Most of us live in a fastpaced environment in an age of highspeed technology fraught with continuous pressure and perpetual change.

Because of these factors, we may find ourselves and our loved ones unable to

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create and perpetuate a feeling of safety and security. The good news is there are a multitude of stress-relieving options.

These include hypnosis and Thought Field Therapy (TFT).

Hypnosis, also known as therapeutic hypnosis, is recognized by researchers as a safe, natural and enjoyable state of deep physical and emotional relaxation. Hypnosis can easily be used as an effective tool for everything from anxiety and stress reduction to selfesteem and behavior modification.

Another tool is the Callahan Techniques Thought Field Therapy (TFT).

Developed by Dr. Roger Callahan, a noted clinical psychologist, TFT is a natural and distinctive protocol of healing that works with the meridian system, the body’s energy system. By stimulating specific points on the body, TFT can

natural awakenings

Even in this day and age, to some the word, “hypnosis”, may conjure up thoughts of scary movies, thunderstorms with frightening castles and helpless victims in a zombie-like trance. Those old myths, legends and misconceptions about hypnosis have been replaced with proven, scientifically sound applications.

Today, hypnosis is considered to be rather conventional and has gone mainstream. Over the years, millions of people worldwide have benefited from its use. Men, women and children are using hypnosis regularly; doctors are recommending it for help with many problems from arthritis to childbirth to stress reduction. Major hospitals across the U.S. are using hypnosis to speed surgical recovery, heal fractures weeks faster, and assist in reducing pain and improve healing of burns. It can help to alleviate negative thoughts, feelings and beliefs as well eliminate the emotional blockages preventing us from accomplishing personal goals. Smoking cessation, sleep issues, success, memory, fear, motivation and healing are commonly helped through the use of hypnosis.

Hypnosis can naturally help people overcome the mental or emotional obstacles preventing them from living life to its fullest. It empowers people to set and accomplish goals and helps to focus the mind’s power of concentration to gain a sense of peace and well-being.

Hypnosis has proven to be a safe, effective and inexpensive way to create desired physical and emotional change, positive results and implement selfhealing where traditional medicine has often failed. This includes the area of weight loss, where traditional therapeutic hypnosis has been a successful tool for weight loss over the years. Many

who prefer to avoid gastric weight loss surgery can actually use the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis program to achieve their results in that area.

COMING IN FEBRUARY 2017

Thought Field Therapy: Energy Psychology in Action

The discovery and use of the TFT system has been at the forefront of the emerging field of energy psychology and brief therapy. This process integrates the sciences of acupuncture, the meridian system and applied kinesiology with the associated emotional problem to successfully reduce and eliminate negative and often debilitating emotional and physical responses. The procedure is safe, drug-free, non-invasive and may provide some immediate relief. While stimulating specific meridian points in a precise order and thinking about the upsetting issue, we utilize the power of the body’s own bio-energy system to release the unwanted negative response.

The National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, a service of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ searchable-online database of mental health and substance abuse interventions, has added TFT. It is now included as an effective evidence-based practice for improving personal resilience, self-concept and self-regulation in addition to reducing trauma, phobia, panic, anxiety and stressor-related disorders and symptoms.

The TFT Foundation has provided free trauma relief missions and PTSD studies around the world from Africa and Kosovo following wars and genocide to disasters in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and in Haiti after the earthquake. The organization has also completed many studies demonstrating TFT’s effectiveness. Thousands of disaster sufferers and victims of war have been helped using the TFT technique and the outcomes are recognized in the International Journal of Emergency Mental Health in recent Rwandan genocide recovery studies. A new film, From Trauma to Peace, is a documentary of how Rwandans are healing themselves from the 1994 genocide.

Create Peace of Mind Naturally

Stress, fear, and emotional and physical traumas may deplete a person’s physical energy as well as cause a multitude of other issues. Western medicine is only now beginning to understand that health and illness may be directly related to our emotional state of inner harmony and balance. Releasing negative thoughts and emotions with TFT and solidifying the positive changes with hypnosis may help unlock the power of the body and mind and cause us to feel happier, healthier and able to once again discover the natural joys of life.

Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv, director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center in Stamford, has more than 24 years of experience in mind-body therapy. She is a registered consulting hypnotist and is trained and certified in multiple hypnosis modalities. Connect at MindBodyTransformation. com or 203-595-0110. See ad, page 3.

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Natural Living Directory Fairfield County Edition The comprehensive Natural Living Directory our readers will reference all year.

To advertise or participate, call 203-885-4674 FFCadvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

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INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtable Divine Chocolate for the Holidays

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ivine Treasures is now taking chocolate orders for the holiday season. Their products use only organic European dark chocolate, filled with organic, gluten-free and vegan-friendly ingredients.

Fans of peanut butter, caramel and chocolate are likely to enjoy a Perfect Duo. Ginger Explosion or Lavender Blue are for those interested in a chocolate adventure. The unique Buddha Blessing is a laughing Buddha made with sweet mango, coconut and lemongrass with a burst of spicy red pepper. Various “turtle” confections are also available, featuring caramel, chocolate and pecans.

Hailed as a favorite by locals since opening in Manchester, Divine Treasures’ customer base has expanded throughout the country thanks to online ordering.

“I actually think of these customers more as clients,” says owner Diane Wagemann. “And we’ve even got Hollywood stars ordering from our site to satisfy their inner foodie. While we adhere to both vegan and gluten-free requirements, our products are made to a standard that all can enjoy.”

A special holiday promotion is being offered by Divine Treasures. Shoppers receive 10 percent off their next purchase placed online before November 30.

Enter promo code “AF1016” to activate this promotion.

For more information or to place your holiday order, visit DTChocolates.com/featured or call 860-643-2552. See ad, page 9.

New Tea Room Opens in Stratford

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To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 36

Fairfield County Edition

asia Lindeberg dreamed of running an herbal tea shop that empowered the community with a healing cup of warm tea. Her vision became a reality with the recent opening of Open Door Tea in Stratford.

Lindeberg, Open Door Tea’s owner and master of teas, has a master of science in human nutrition.

In addition to teaching patrons about the benefits of different teas, Lindeberg will hold a monthly herb club that will focus on topics such as utilizing herbs in the culinary arts and growing your own herb garden. Margi Montanero is a photographer and entrepreneur who created and ran Cozy Corners, a Christian bookstore and gift shop in Monroe, for nine years. She will be exhibiting the talents of new local artists at Open Door Tea. In addition to being the tea room’s baker, Tammy Galt will be leading a variety of seasonal craft workshops, including winter wreath making.

Open Door Tea offers a wide array of organic drinks and snacks. While the focus is on teas, they also serve coffee, juices, smoothies, fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads and other small delicacies. All of the teas are available for purchase in bulk at the store in addition to pre-packaged teas in 100 gram bags offered online.

There are gluten-free and vegetarians options available as well. The vast majority of their products and ingredients are organic. Open Door Tea will also host seminars, workshops and support groups.

Open Door Tea’s hours are Tuesday-Friday from 8am-5pm and Saturday from 9am-5pm.

For more information, visit OpenDoorTea.com, email Info@OpenDoorTea.com or call 203-345-9659. Location: 3552 Main St, Stratford. Parking spaces are available in the front of the store with additional parking in the rear.

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Festive Sips and Nibbles Vegan Holiday Treats that Everyone Loves

by Judith Fertig

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or those that like to eat plant-based meals most of the time, the holidays can present a challenge. Social occasions from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day abound, including multi-course dinners and potlucks; tree-trimming and baking parties; neighborly hospitality; nibbling on treats while wrapping gifts; and gathering to watch a holiday movie.

Because so much is happening in such a short period of time, people often revert to serving traditional foods such as Aunt Mary’s cheese ball or Grandma Daisy’s three-layer chocolate bars. These vintage recipes, however, can be laden with processed ingredients. Foods that signaled holiday cheer ages ago need a tweak or two to satisfy today’s health-minded friends and family members. With traditional flavors of the season like aromatic spices, fresh rosemary and chocolate, plus a plantbased philosophy, family favorites can get a new twist.

Natural Awakenings asked cookbook authors, chefs and bloggers from around the country to help us celebrate wonderful holiday moments, big and small. Adding a plant-based nibble or sip not only helps party hosts stay on track, it also helps keep guests from over-indulging, so that everyone ends up enjoying themselves even more.

Addictive Nibbles

American-born Sandra Gutierrez grew up in Guatemala and now lives in Cary, North Carolina. As the author of The New Southern Latino Table and Empanadas: The Hand-Held Pies of Latin America, she shows how fresh, seasonal, Latino foods can add grace and flavor to any table.

“In the South, appetizers can be as simple as shelled pecans tossed with spices,” she says. She applies the same easy treatment to pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, tossing them with ancho chile pow-

Stepanek Photography/Shutterstock.com

consciouseating

der, cumin, coriander and other flavorings to bake in the oven until crunchy. “These take only minutes to make and will keep for a few weeks if stored in an airtight container.” Then, when people drop by, she has a ready-made, plant-based, delicious nibble to offer with drinks.

Brother chefs Chad and Derek Sarno, of Austin, Texas, are the co-founders of WickedHealthyFood.com, a website devoted to plant-based eating habits.

Chad has co-authored (with Chris Karr) Crazy Sexy Kitchen: 150 Plant-Empowered Recipes to Ignite a Mouthwatering Revolution. Derek is the former global executive chef for Whole Foods Market. “Shoot for 80 percent healthy and 20 percent wicked, and you’ll be 100 percent sexy,” they advise with a wink.

A little indulgence is fine during the holidays, they say. “For vegans and vegetarians, think of your 20 percent as a chance to let loose every now and again and enjoy whatever makes you feel a bit wicked—fats, sugars, salts, beer; you get the idea—unless you’re following doctor’s orders. We want you to eat for health, and as chefs, we want eating healthy to taste great.” For the holidays, they like to have easy, yet big-flavor nibbles on hand such as homemade popcorn flavored with fresh rosemary and truffle oil, or crunchy, roasted chickpeas that pack a little heat from sriracha, a homemade or bottled hot sauce.

Celebratory Sips

Sophia DeSantis, of Carlsbad, California, changed to a vegan diet because of her husband’s health issues several years ago. “We ate plant-based for one month and just kept on going,” she says. “Within three months, he was off all meds and hasn’t needed them since.”

That victory made her an impassioned vegan cook for their three chil-

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Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Tasty Holiday Recipes ¼ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp sugar (optional) Preheat the oven to 375° F. photo by Stephen Blancett

dren, as well. Whether preparing food for family or guests, she says, “I don’t even mention the type of food, because I simply make delicious dishes that just happen to be plant-based.

There are a million and one ways to redo traditional favorites.”

DeSantis makes her own pistachio milk for a special hot chocolate she serves during the holidays; she blogs her recipes at VeggiesDontBite.com.

Other options for plant-based sips include chilled, dairy-free eggnog, perhaps topped with coconut creamer and a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. Mulled cider or pomegranate juice, warmed in a stove pot with whole spices like cinnamon and cloves, plus slices of citrus fruits, add holiday flavors and aromas.

Having already prepared nibbles and sips handy in the pantry, freezer or refrigerator makes both planned and spontaneous hosting easier, as well as providing ready-made goodies to bring to other gatherings. “Then, there’s always something available you can enjoy,” says DeSantis.

Spiced Pepitas

These crunchy pumpkin seeds are lemony, salty, spicy and zesty, all at the same time. A handful of these toasted tidbits whets the appetite.

Yields: 2 cups 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds 1 Tbsp grated lemon zest 1 Tbsp lemon juice 2 tsp salt 1 tsp ground cumin ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper ½ tsp ground coriander ½ tsp ancho chile powder ½ tsp cayenne pepper

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND COCONUT SOUP WITH SHRIMP (Serves 4 to 6)

Savor this Thai-inspired soup, with a base of creamy coconut milk, rich butternut squash, a hint of spicy peppers and succulent shrimp. For a shortcut, look for peeled and cubed butternut squash in the produce department. Serve over rice or noodles if you like.

INGREDIENTS: 2 teaspoons expeller-pressed canola oil 1 small yellow onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh ginger 1 teaspoon red curry paste, more to taste 2 teaspoons light brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt 2 cups low-sodium gluten-free chicken broth 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted (optional) 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces, about 4 cups Lime wedges • Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic and ginger. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in curry paste, sugar and salt and cook 1 minute longer. Stir in squash, broth and coconut milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until squash is tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

• Stir in shrimp and simmer just until cooked through, about 2 minutes. Stir in cilantro, sprinkle with coconut and serve with lime wedges on the side.

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natural awakenings

In a medium bowl, toss together the pumpkin seeds, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, cumin, pepper, coriander, chile powder, cayenne and garlic powder.

Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and shake to redistribute the seeds, and then bake for another 3 minutes. Pull it out to shake the pan again. Then finish baking for 1 to 2 minutes or until the pumpkin seeds are crispy and golden without burning them.

Transfer to a cool baking sheet and cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Courtesy of Sandra A. Gutierrez, SandrasKitchenStudio.com; author of Empanadas: The Hand-Held Pies of Latin America.

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w e s t p o r t f a r m e r s m a r k e t. c o m

Cocoa ½ to ¾ cup unsweetened baking cocoa or cacao powder ¼ to ½ cup date paste 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract Dash Himalayan pink salt For the pistachio milk, soak the nuts overnight in a bowl of water.

Rinse before placing them into a highspeed blender with the 2 cups of water.

Blend until the mixture is completely puréed and milky.

Beer-Miso-Sriracha Roasted Chickpeas Truffle Spiced Popcorn This wicked, fresh, piping-hot popcorn is kissed with a simple blend of rosemary, onion and truffle oil.

Yields: 9 cups 2½ Tbsp grapeseed oil A bit less than ½ cup popcorn kernels 1 Tbsp truffle oil 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast ½ Tbsp onion granules ½ tsp fresh rosemary, minced Sea salt to taste

On medium heat, warm the oil in a large saucepan with a lid.

Any favorite beer will work.

Yields: 2 to 4 servings

Strain mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth; then add the nut milk back into the blender.

1 (15½ oz) can chickpeas or garbanzo beans, drained and set aside 1 Tbsp sriracha 1 Tbsp organic miso paste (any color) 1 /3 bottle of beer Black and white sesame seeds Dried chili to taste Smoked salt for garnish to taste

Whisk wet ingredients until mixed well.

Toss mixture with chickpeas.

Remove from the stove and add all kernels in an even layer on the bottom of the pan.

Cover for 20 seconds to allow all the kernels to become coated and reach equal temperature so they all pop at once.

Garnish with sesame seeds and dried chili, maybe a little smoked salt.

Courtesy of Chad and Derek Sarno, WickedHealthyFood.com.

Frothy Hot Chocolate with Pistachio Milk

Remove from the stovetop immediately and pour all popcorn into a large bowl.

Cozy up and indulge in this thick, creamy and rich hot chocolate made with whole food ingredients.

Drizzle with truffle oil, nutritional yeast, onion granules, minced rosemary and sea salt. Shake and mix well before serving.

Yields: 2 servings

Courtesy of Chad and Derek Sarno, WickedHealthyFood.com.

Note: If using a regular, slower blender, re-warm the hot chocolate on the stove top. It may not be as thick and frothy but will taste good.

Courtesy of Sophia DeSantis, VeggiesDontBite.com.

Preheat the oven to 375° F.

Place mixture on baking pan and roast for 20 to 30 minutes, shaking and stirring periodically until mixture is evaporated and chickpeas begin to get color; beware of burning.

Place the covered pan back on the heat and shake it while it’s on the burner. The kernels will slowly begin to pop; once they start, crack the lid slightly to let out a bit of steam. Continue shaking the pan over heat until the popping stops.

Add all other ingredients and blend at a high speed until thick.

Pistachio Milk ½ cup raw shelled pistachios 2 cups filtered water eNaturalAwakenings.com

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natural awakenings

by April Thompson

T

he workplace can be filled with stress, egos and distractions that challenge the productive and happy atmosphere we desire. Both employees and employers are adopting mindfulness to help cope and transform both themselves and their work environment.

Rooted in Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, most workplace mindfulness programs have stripped the techniques to a secular form more appealing to skeptics or adherents of other religions. The key practice—simply known as “sitting” or meditation—involves focusing our attention on our thoughts, breathing, emotions or bodily sensations for a set time period, while the term mindfulness refers to the ability to be aware of the present moment, whether meditating or in a business meeting.

While Fortune 500 companies like Procter & Gamble, Aetna and General Mills have instituted formal mindfulness programs, Michael Carroll, meditation teacher, executive coach and the author of Awake at Work, says that the mindfulness revolution has been largely seeded from the ground up. It’s emerged through people exploring the practices in their personal lives, and then bringing them to work.

Personal and Professional Benefits

Jacqueline Gallo, operational excellence manager for Whitcraft Group, a manufacturing plant in Eastford, Connecticut, discovered meditation 12 years ago while seeking solace during a traumatic time. Today, Gallo does three short sits a week and occasionally participates in 10-day retreats.

Whitcraft doesn’t offer meditation to employees, but Gallo

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says mindfulness enables her to be available to her staff and solve problems without getting “swept off my feet so easily by all the desires, agendas and emotions confronted at work.”

Carroll cautions that it’s not about trying to eliminate our own or others’ emotional agendas or personal biases at work; rather, individuals use mindfulness to become more conscious of and relaxed about them. “Meditation helps develop agility in viewing… to self-regulate, drop fixed mindsets, become self-aware,” explains Carroll, who has coached university presidents, CEOs and nonprofit executives in mindful leadership techniques. “You learn things from a competitor’s perspective or pick up on social cues you may miss if you instead had a fixed lens on a situation.”

Corporate Acceptance

While meditation may be on the upswing in the workplace, it was a battle to legitimize it, according to Tara Healey, program director for mindfulness-based learning at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (HPHC). A longtime meditation practitioner, Healey started the Mind the Moment program a decade ago while serving as an organizational capacity building consultant. Surveys had shown that employees were overwhelmed and dissatisfied, but lacked the skills to rectify their situation.

“The leadership said, ‘Great, let’s do it, but not tell anyone,’” relates Healey. She notes that meditation, a core component of her multifaceted mindfulness course covering everything from workplace stress to mindful listening, wasn’t accepted in the workplace at that point.

Today, 30 percent of her company’s 1,050 employees have completed a six-week class introducing them to the power of mindfulness; some go on to participate in a guided monthly group meditation practice or use company meditation rooms for individual practice. The health services company also offers the course to its member companies

throughout New England. To date, more than 12,350 people in 174 companies have participated, encompassing varied fields from higher education and health to finance and technology. A survey of employees showed that initially 99 percent felt it was a good use of their time; another taken six months later found that 87 percent were still using the techniques.

HPHC informatics analyst Stephanie Oddleifson, who took the course nearly 10 years ago, says it transformed her way of thinking and behaving in the workplace and furnished a set of practices she uses every day. In times of conflict, “I was so quick to make up stories in my head and jump to conclusions previously,” she says. “Now I’m able to pause before responding and observe my thoughts without getting caught up in them. I can diffuse tense situations with humor and not take things personally.”

Additional research substantiates the anecdotal evidence for meditation’s workplace benefits. In 2015, scientists from Canada’s University of British Columbia and Germany’s Chemnitz University of Technology compiled data from 20-plus neurology studies, finding significant correlations between meditation and areas of the brain related to capacities for self-regulation, introspection and complex thinking.

A Rice University study specifically found a positive relationship between workplace mindfulness, job performance and employee retention.

While workplace mindfulness programs vary and may incorporate helpful talks, encouraging readings and group discussions, Healey and Carroll both caution that reading or talking about mindfulness or meditation is no substitute for the practice itself, which many find challenging. “You won’t taste the benefits just reading about it,” remarks Healey. “The practice will come into play come showtime.”

Connect with April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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November 2016

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Structural Integration for Burn Survivors

A Conversation with Cody Smolik

C Cody Smolik

ody Smolik, a graduate of the Guild for Structural Integration, has been practicing Structural Integration since 2007. Natural Awakenings Fairfield County asked Smolik how she was able to help burn survivors through her experience finding relief with Structural Integration and their ability to self-correct their way out of pain.

What made you think Structural Integration might work for people with severe burns?

A practitioner works with Structural Integration to lengthen, stretch and soften the body’s connective tissue to restore postural balance and ease mobility issues. Because Structural Integration works from outer tissue to inner tissue, I thought it would be a good fit for burn survivors. It would provide room and movement somewhere in the body, even if it was not on the surface. Making room and using that inner space would help open the outer tissue. Many people do not move from the core; the core is a solid, strong, efficient place to begin any movement, and is the place where movement should begin.

Where did your interactions with burn survivors take place?

Shriners Burns Hospital is a 30-bed hospital in Galveston, Texas. It has an intensive care unit with 15 acute beds, a reconstruction and plastic surgery unit with 15 reconstructive beds, three operating rooms, a multi-bed recovery room, clinics and a large outpatient population.

What challenges did you face?

My clients at the hospital had never had body work and really did not know what to expect. They were nervous about being

touched for many reasons and had sensitivity issues in regard to anyone working on their tissue. In addition, differing collagen levels could make the tissue difficult to work with. The patients also had varying years of living with the burned tissue and varying amounts of compliance with caring for their tissue.

There were also the grafted tissue areas, which can be surprisingly painful to work on for the client. In addition, they needed to deal with contractures. I have seen contracting skin pull a whole foot permanently at a right angle to the ankle, forcing the client to walk with the legs rotated outward. The same contractures in the hand and armpit areas can constrict the tissue there and force them out of normal alignment.

What were your findings and your goals?

Regardless of the scarred and tightened areas, I could still feel the energy flowing throughout these limbs, telling me there was potential for movement—enough to help with overall movement capability. Plus, I anticipated the added benefit of an inner life, an inner space for the client to move from. My hope was to improve the quality of life of all these clients.

My first and foremost goal was to work on burnt tissue to see if it would respond at all to Structural Integration. I had no idea what this tissue was like. And even though I know how Structural Integration can open the body and lengthen it, would it do so with bodies that had burnt and scarred tissue?

What I found was a remarkable fit and one totally suited to those with second and third degree burns. My clients were able to move more freely, live with less pain and relax into their bodies. Even though burn survivors are at the extreme end of the tissue damage spectrum, it is interesting to note that tissue does respond to Structural Integration and that the surrounding, healthier tissue does work to help the compromised tissue. And the clients did notice a difference. To them, obtaining a “more comfortable fit” within their skin was achievable.

With this preliminary work, my next goal was to do a study on this and ultimately to speak to it at the World Burn Congress. In the next few years I hope to continue my work on burn survivors as well as cancer survivors, those with compromised tissue due to radiation treated areas.

Cody Smolik is an Advanced Rolf Practitioner and Structural Integrator who practices in Fairfield County and Greenville, South Carolina. Connect with her at Cody-Smolik-Rolf-SI.com or Cody.Smolik@gmail.com.

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Fairfield County Edition

Sundays at 10:30 am

Open Mic Night, Sat, Nov 17th at 7:00pm To see all events, visit Unitycenternorwalk.org

natural awakenings

Rev. Shawn Moninger, Unity Minister

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Award from Franchise Business 43

petbriefs Animal Artisans Supports Rescue with Donated Goods The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

A

nimal Artisans is a new store that collaborates with animal rescue groups to showcase their missions and fundraise by selling goods donated by supporters. The boutique also creates an opportunity for local artisans to present their craft.

The store’s main goal is not only to raise money for local animal groups but also to use the store as a platform to continue to educate shoppers about current animal welfare issues and topics. To that end, it is also the home base of a non-profit organization called A Hand for a Paw.

A Hand for a Paw’s mission is to keep animals home and out of shelters. The founders used to run the Bridgeport Animal Shelter for over 7 years and vowed to do everything in their power to keep as many animals as possible from entering the doors of municipal animal control.

A Hand for a Paw provides mobile humane resources to the underserved communities in Bridgeport through a program called, Mobile Pet Solutions, which assists pet families with affordable vaccines, micro-chipping, a pet food pantry, and access to affordable professional assistance.

For more information, visit AnimalArtisans.org or Facebook.com/AnimalArtisans, email Info@AnimalArtisans.org or call 203-345-0564. Location: 187 Ferry Blvd, Stratford. See A Hand for a Paw Pet Resource Guide listing, page 49.

Going Live with Birds of Prey

J

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

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Fairfield County Edition

oin the co-founders of A Place Called Hope, Inc. for a Birds of Prey presentation to benefit the Wildlife Line. This live experience on November 5 from 1-4pm will offer the audience a chance to meet four birds of prey up close and personal.

Learn ways to lessen conflicts with wildlife often encountered in our own backyards. Each birdʼs story of survival shares simple tips that can potentially help preserve wildlife for the future. The event is for the entire family and cameras are encouraged.

Pre-registration is required. The recommended donation is $15 for adults and children over 16. Children under 16 are free. By joining, you will help support the vision of the Wildlife Line in saving injured and orphaned wildlife.

For more information and registration, visit BirdsforBucks.Bpt.Me or Facebook.com/ Events/708645729289602. Location: Rte 55 E, Sherman.

Choice Pet Launches Online Store

C

hoice Pet’s selection of natural, holistic, organic and premium products are now available any time of the day or night with the launch of the store’s new online shopping option. The online shop will offer a premium product selection and free delivery on orders over $50.

The first Choice Pet Supply opened in Norwalk in 1979 and there are now 17 neighborhood locations across Connecticut, New York and New Jersey. Each store is stocked with carefully selected holistic, organic, raw and natural foods, treats and chews along with an array of pet products.

For more information and a list of Choice Pet Supply stores near you, visit ChoicePet.com/Shop.

natural awakenings

Animals as Healers

Dogs Play a Role in Psychotherapy Success

by Nicole Kroeber

I

n the last decade there has been a significant increase in the study of how animals help heal humans.

Dogs, cats, fish and horses have been utilized in a variety of settings due to their ability to improve a patient’s social, emotional or cognitive functioning. The use of pets in medical settings dates back more than 150 years, but it wasn’t until the late 1970s that researchers started to uncover the scientific support for that bond.

Horses have become popular therapists for humans for many reasons.

They provide an opportunity for people to connect to a living being without the risk of rejection or criticism. They can put people at ease because they are nonjudgmental and only respond to people’s intent and behavior. Horses, just like dogs, are social animals. They enjoy interacting with people that are engaged and work to build a relationship with them. There are also physical benefits riders get from the movements that build core strength, body awareness and muscle memory.

Dolphin therapy was started in the early seventies with Dr. Betsy Smith, an anthropologist who observed the positive therapeutic effects dolphins had on her disabled brother. Dolphins appear to have human-like emotions and a deep trusting bond can develop

between human and mammal. Many proponents of dolphin therapy believe they possess an innate gentleness and a mysterious power to trigger the healing process in humans.

Dogs can greatly enhance the therapeutic process as they are a source of peace and comfort. Scientists have the empirical facts to declare that nonhuman animals are sentient beings.

Sentience is defined as the ability to feel, perceive, be conscious or experience subjectivity. France, Quebec and Switzerland have recognized animals as living beings gifted with sentience— rather than property—and have enacted this new law. With this law comes legal consequences to anyone who exposes an animal to extreme anxiety or suffering.

Gregory Berns, MD, PhD, professor at Emory University in Georgia, has researched MRI scans of dogs. He concluded that dogs’ brains look and function just like human brains in many ways. Humans and dogs share many of the same basic structures, including a brain region that is associated with positive emotions. He has also found proof that our canine companions really do love us.

“We can no longer hide from the evidence,” Berns says. “Dogs and many other animals—especially our closest primate relatives—have emotions just

like us. And this means we must reconsider their treatment as property.”

Research has shown the physiological benefits in humans with the use of therapy dogs. These benefits include decreased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, a more relaxed body posture, and a reduction in the physical symptoms of anxiety. Studies show that simply petting a dog for only 15 minutes releases the so-called “feel good” hormones, serotonin and oxytocin. Serotonin contributes to our overall well-being and happiness. Oxytocin helps us feel happy and connected. It also supports the body and its ability to be in a state of readiness to heal and to grow new cells; it predisposes us to an environment in our own bodies where we can be healthier. Several studies have proven that human-dog interactions elicit the same type of oxytocin positive feedback and bonding as seen between mothers and their infants.

Dogs are creatures of the present moment and they inspire us to be more mindful. Sitting and placing a hand on a dog’s belly while matching our breathing to theirs changes the physiology of the body and turns on the parasympathetic response, the body’s natural way of calming itself. This slowing down and pausing creates a space to deepen presence; it interrupts the stress response and creates a quiet clearing in the present moment.

Dogs can also be instrumental with teaching social skills to children. Teaching children how do tricks with the dogs that focus on social skills—such as maintaining eye contact, and using tone of voice and facial expressions—encourages collaboration with the dogs. With repetition, kids are able to apply said skills with people. Canines can be used in role plays where the child pretends to engage a peer using these skills and attempts to make a new friend.

When actively included in the therapy process, dogs can act as an ice-breaker; help build rapport; help to foster trust; are a source of comfort; accept unconditionally and fail to judge.

Nicole Kroeber, LCSW, has a holistic psychotherapy private practice in Cheshire. Her dog Mieka is one of her furry facilitators. Nicole can be reached at 203-537-7133.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

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Understanding Cats’ Coats

Understanding Pet Grooming Coat Maintenance is Critical to Animal Wellbeing

by Mary Oquendo

B

y law, food, water and shelter are the basic physical necessities that are required to be provided for pets. But that’s not really enough to keep pets at their best… they need more. Their physical needs include caring for their appearance.

Grooming is more than just making them look good, it’s a matter of health and wellbeing, just as regular bathing is for humans.

A pet’s skin is the largest organ in their body. As such, it takes up a large amount of the body’s available resources.

When the condition of the skin is compromised or neglected, it unduly taxes an animal’s system. The skin has three functions: protection, regulation and sensation. It could be argued that a fourth function is to hold everything together in one neat package. An animal’s skin needs to breathe. A tangled coat, excessive dander or dirt impede its ability to do so.

What covers the skin is a coat, sometimes referred to as hair. Although it comes in varying lengths, it must be regularly maintained regardless of its length. Dogs and cats with a long coat have the potential to mat. A mat is hair that intertwines and becomes tight against the skin to the point of suffocating the skin. By not regularly maintaining that coat, sores, irritations and even open wounds may manifest under the mat. Once a coat is matted, the only humane approach is to shave the coat and start over.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

It is a misconception that cats are self-cleaning; they are not ovens. Cats lick their fur with saliva to remove excess hair. This licking may lead to hairballs. Hairballs can become problematic when they become numerous or large and cannot pass out of the digestive tract. This is actually life-threatening. Even shorthaired cats should be brushed and combed regularly. Cat combs should have alternating-sized tines to help grab the undercoat.

Pin brushes with soft tines are better for a cat’s thinner skin.

Quality combs and brushes have rounded ends; it is more expensive for the manufacturer to round the edges, hence the higher price tag. To test the comb or brush, run it up and down the arm. Quality equipment does not hurt. A cat’s skin, thinner than a dog’s, tears easier with lower quality combs and brushes. De-shedding tools are popular but the problem with them is that while they are effective at removing undercoat, they also cut the coat. This damages the hair cuticle; a damaged cuticle is more likely to mat and create more problems.

Cats can be bathed, but not in the same manner as dogs.

Place towels in the sink as cats need something soft to grip.

Apply pre-mixed cat safe shampoo to their coat and massage it in. Cat faces should be hand-washed with face shampoo or a soft cloth. Rinse using a cup of water at a time because most cats do not like the sensation of fast-moving running water on their skin. Towel off and dry.

Diving into Dog Hair Short-coated dogs, such as Labrador retrievers, should be brushed with a rubber curry brush, a solid piece of rubber with raised nubs. These nubs gently pull out dead coat. A cat comb is also very effective at pulling out dead coat from short-coated dogs. They will shed less when professionally blown out with a high-velocity dryer. A pet groomer uses such a dryer to force undercoat out; only professionals should use high-velocity dryers, as they are powerful enough to blow out eardrums, puncture lungs and damage soft corneal eye tissue.

All other dogs can be categorized into shedding and non-shedding types. Dogs that shed—including golden retrievers, German shepherds, Siberian huskies and others—require a quality comb and medium bristle pin brush to manage their coats. A weekly comb and brush is usually sufficient for these breeds. They may also benefit from having their coat professionally blown out.

Long-coated dogs, such as doodles, poodles, Wheatons and so forth, benefit from frequent professional grooming.

Long coats will easily mat if not combed and brushed several times a week. The longer the pet’s coat, the more frequent their care needs to be. They require a quality comb and pin brushes with soft, medium and hard tines.

Regular grooming not only keeps a pet beautiful, but also serves to maintain their skin. Maintained skin and coat results in a healthier and happier pet.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 17.

Give Them A Home For The Holidays Leon

Cupcake

Leon was just a wee kitten when he arrived at our clinic from a dangerous area in town. He is now about 3 years old and a small but stocky gent who loves to play as much as he loves to snuggle.

Cupcake is true to her name: She’s a sweetie! She has that “Grumpy Cat” look, but she’s far from it: Quiet until she starts purring, she is a snugglebug who wants your love. She’s in the middle part of her senior years, about 10, but she’s got a lot of loving yet to give.

Wyatt & Selena

This brother/sister pair love to play, eat and snuggle all the time— they actually look for each other if one is not in the same room! They were rescued from a hoarding situation and were so out of their element that they didn’t recognize what a cat bed was.

While playful, they love to chill out; they’re pretty much the perfect pets, and they are only 2-and-a-half years old. Wyatt and Selena deserve a great home together...yours!

Toni

Selena

Wyatt

Toni is a sweet girl, abandoned in a colony when she was a little baby. She’s a young and very playful 2-year-old dark tabby and would love to live with a feline friend or two!

Juniper

Babycakes

When it comes to stealing your heart with a long gaze, Babycakes wins paws down. Due to a family move, this lovely and gentle girl came to live with our group and has won over everyone’s heart the minute they walk toward her. She lets you know when she wants your attention with that sweet little meow and kneading on the pillows. She is a young senior kitty, about 9 years old, who wants nothing more than to sit and cuddle with you and watch TV or the birds outside in the backyard.

Please give her a chance to prove her love for you.

Living on the streets of a busy town, Juniper had her litter of 6 in a dumpster when she was found. All her babies found great homes; now it’s Junie’s turn! She is 3 years young and playful. Please consider making her a part of the family!

All of our kitties are spayed/neutered, examined and cared for by our veterinarian, up-to-date on rabies and distemper vaccines, tested for feline AIDS/leukemia, and defleaed and dewormed.

Want to visit these kitties and our other fabulous fosters?

Simply contact us by e-mail at info@nutmegclinic.org and we’ll be happy to schedule a mutually convenient time.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

47

naturalpet

HANDLE WILD THINGS WITH CARE How to Help Injured Animals

by Sandra Murphy

W

hen encountering a bird or animal that appears to be abandoned, take only minimal steps to help. “People mean well but a lot of rescues we see, didn’t need help,” says Lacy Campbell, wildlife care center operations manager for the Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon. Make sure the animal is away from traffic or predators, and then call a local wildlife rehabilitator before taking further action, especially if the animal is injured.

Vulnerable Little Ones

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Baby squirrels can fall out of the nest.

“Leave him at the base of the tree,” says Jennifer Keats Curtis, author of the children’s book Squirrel Rescue. “Mom

will rebuild the nest before coming to get her baby. If it’s cold, put it in a box with a towel. Once squirrels have been treated as a pet, they can’t be released.”

Tiny, not-yet-feathered nestlings should be returned home; it’s a myth that human scent poses a problem.

If the nest is out of reach or can’t be located, make one with a box and soft cloth. Put it in the tree, so the parents can resume feeding. Leave the area so as not to frighten them.

“After young robins, scrub jays, crows and owls leave the nest, they typically spend up to a week on the ground before they can fly,” says Campbell. “At night, the parents will escort the fully feathered fledglings to safety beneath a bush.”

In parks, ducks and geese may nest away from the water. Mama will lead her babies to the pond, even across busy streets. If it’s safe, stop the car to halt traffic, act as their crossing guard, and then resume driving.

A box turtle operates on innate GPS. “It lives in an area the size of a football field,” explains Curtis. “It will go onward, no matter how many times people try to redirect it. If injured by a car or lawn mower, the shell can be mended by a rehab center.”

Bunnies eat at dusk and dawn. Inbetween, the nest may look abandoned.

“Wild baby rabbits are difficult to keep alive if injured,” says Curtis. “At sundown, see if mom returns; if not, they need a wildlife rehab expert.”

A lone, young raccoon is either old enough to climb a tree by itself or the mother will carry it. If we feed a raccoon, it will become a beggar.

Opossums are dramatic actors. When cornered, they hiss and fall over and play dead in a coma-like state for up to four hours. Check back later. If a mother possum has been killed by a car, call a rehab official to check her pouch for potential babies.

“If you find a young deer fawn or moose calf, leave it. The mother comes back several times each day to nurse,” advises Amanda Nicholson, director of outreach for the Wildlife Center of Virginia, in Waynesboro. “Its coloring helps it remain undetected by predators.”

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“Don’t feed wild animals or leave out food or accessible comestible trash.

Bobcats, wolves, bears and coyotes will avoid people unless food is involved,” cautions Jennifer Place, program associate for Born Free USA, a nonprofit in Washington, D.C. “Wild animals protect their space, food and young, so stay on marked trails when hiking and never turn your back on them.”

For unexpected meetings, stay calm. “Make sure there’s an escape route for the animal,” says Place. “With foxes or coyotes, throw sticks or small rocks, but don’t hit the animal. Make yourself look large and yell.” With snakes, sidestep away slowly for more than six feet before walking in the other

Wildlife Transport Tips If a wild animal is injured, wear heavy gloves in its vicinity to avoid being bitten or scratched. Completely cover the animal with a blanket so it stays relatively calm, and place it in a carrier for transport to a rehabilitation facility. A warm hot water bottle can help ward off shock.

Do not give the animal water, milk or food. Time is of the essence to ward off dangers of stress. Wild animals can carry disease without appearing to be ill. Fleas, ticks and mites are likely, so keep injured wildlife away from pets and children.

direction. Bears require a different response. “Speak in a low voice so the bear realizes you are not prey. Never climb a tree,” says Place. “Bears know the terrain, can run faster than a horse and can climb trees, too. Sidestep away, remaining carefully upright, calm and unthreatening. If the bear moves toward you, keep talking until he moves away.

Running kicks in its prey drive.”

Yellowstone Park regulations require visitors to stay 25 yards away from most wildlife and 100 yards away from bears and wolves. Selfie photos with animals can result in injury or death for humans and animals through carelessness; safety depends on good judgement, respect and common sense.

Friends of wildlife know beforehand how to contact local rehabilitators if there’s an emergency, observe before taking action, and protect pets. “Always leash dogs when going into the yard at night and keep cats indoors,” says Place. “Peaceful co-existence allows for the safety of both people and animals, domestic and wild.”

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Local Resources Wildlife in Crisis PO Box 1246, Weston 203-544-9913 • WildlifeInCrisis.org The Wildlife Line 2 Barlow Farm Rd, Sherman 860-355-5797 • TheWildlifeLine.org To assist with a donation, visit GoFundMe.com/Wildlife-Line-Inc

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING

ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 Animals-In-Distress.com

MARY OQUENDO

203-994-5308 MaryOquendo.com Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

Pet grooming in a relaxed one-onone environment in your driveway by a leader in the holistic grooming industry. Mary also offers Reiki and crystal therapy for your beloved pets.

BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

VETERINARY SERVICES A HAND FOR A PAW

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

PO Box 389, Bridgeport 203-258-3069 • Info@AHFAP.org AHandForAPaw.org A Hand for a Paw, Inc is a local non-profit dedicated to keeping animals home. Programs include mobile clinics providing pet families with affordable vaccines, micro-chipping and pet food pantry. Visit Animal Artisans at 187 Ferry Blvd, Stratford to support our cause.

FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org AdoptAPet.org LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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

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 WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.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 lowcost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 47.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

Magazine calendar events must be received by November 12 (for December 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.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Chakra and Pendulum Dowsing Intensive Workshop – 7-9pm. 11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 12/6. Presented by Elena Cantavero (guest Leroy Bull - Master Dowser ASD, NY Times & Smithsonian Magazine). Learn basic information about the chakras. Deep focus on all aspects of pendulum use and accuracy. $20. $15/ early bird special. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Conscious Presence, Conscious Action In the Time of Dying & Death – 7-9pm. 11/2 & 11/3.

With Robert Sachs. Discussion and demonstration on what we can do to facilitate the Conscious Transitioning we seek. $35/one day; $60/both days.

Alliance for Conscious Transitioning at The Liphe Balance Center of Weston. 203-912-2791. Info@ SllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com.

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, NOVEMBER 3 Conscious Presence, Conscious Action In the Time of Dying & Death – 7-9pm. 11/2 & 11/3.

With Robert Sachs. Discussion and demonstration on what we can do to facilitate the Conscious Transitioning we seek. $35/one day; $60/both days.

Alliance for Conscious Transitioning at The Liphe Balance Center of Weston. 203-912-2791. Info@ SllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Reiki Level 1 workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced

markyourcalendar LifePath Yoga & Wellness Workshop Schedule December Bringing Your OM Home: Developing a Home Practice

Saturday, 12/3 • 1:30-3pm

Restorative Yoga for the Holidays

Sunday, 12/4 • 1:30-3pm Yoga for Breast Cancer Teacher Training 12/10 & 12/11 • Noon-6pm Register for all workshops at LifePathYoga.net.

For more information, call 203-354-7070 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk

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.

Fall Weekend Retreat – 7am-4pm. 11/4-11/6.

Opportunity to deepen your meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. Attendees will have a private interview period with our Monk. $60/weekend; $30/one day. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation. org. ReddingMeditation.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Reiki 1st Degree workshop – 9:30am-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.

Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm.

Gifted readers and healers available for appointments. 30 minutes or 1 hour. Reiki Healing sessions also available. $45 and up for readings; $30 for healing. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 295 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10cats@optonline. net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 New Age and Craft Expo – 10am-5pm. Come experience a day of spiritual and creative enlightenment. Angel, tarot and intuitive readings. Handcrafted jewelry and crafts. 2 rooms of dynamic speakers and guided meditations. Reiki, aromatherapy, crystals and more. $6. Southbury Crowne Plaza, 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury. 203-733-6560.

Cryours87@yahoo.com.

A Course in Miracles – 1-3pm. With Reverend Earl Purdy. Share entertaining and thought provoking ideas as expressed by the Course and put into every day terms. $35 (no one turned away). Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 295 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Elderberry Syrup Workshop and 1770 House Tour – 2-4pm. With Ehris Urban and Velya JanczUrban, herbalists/historians. Elderberry - a therapeutic powerhouse for respiratory ailments and the flu.

Tour their unique 1770 home, and make your own 8-ounce Elderberry Syrup. $30/materials included.

The Grounded Goodwife Farmhouse, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@yahoo.com.

GroundedGoodwife.com.

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

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Wise Woman Wednesday - Wiseguys Welcome, Too – 6:30-8:30pm. With Haley Nedderman. Come experience this creative plant meditation journey. $25/pre registration; $30/at the door. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203460-2854. BekahTwinStar@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Chakradance – 6:30-8pm. A new healing dance for adults of all ages. Reconnect to joy, self-expression, and your creativity. Free-form dance in a candlelit room at the beautiful Redding Meditation Center.

No dance experience necessary. $40. Redding Meditation Center, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-733-8250. HealingKhristee@gmail.com.

TheDancingCurtain.com.

“The Conversation” – 7pm. Come join our lively conversation on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life options. RSVP. Free. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning at The Liphe Balance Center of Weston. 203-912-2791. Info@AllianceFCT. com. AllianceFCT.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Shamanic Journeying Through Song – 7-9pm.

With Rocio La Rosa. A way of communicating with your inner self or spirit self and retrieving information. Classes are in the Peruvian style of Shamanism, in which rattles are used. $45. $40/early bird special.

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

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Acro Yoga – 2-4pm.Join Charlie and Maisah for an all-levels exploration into AcroYoga, a delightful blend of yoga, acrobatics, and healing arts. $45/class.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

History is Served! Come Whang With Us – 5:308pm. With Ehris Urban and Velya Jancz-Urban, historians/herbalists. Whang is a 1700s term for a gathering of friendly women neighbors. Share the reward of a family-style meal prepared with others. $30/materials included. The Grounded Goodwife Farmhouse, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@ yahoo.com. GroundedGoodwife.com.

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markyourcalendar SUNRAVEN

THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE Slow Medicine for Couples Tuesday, 11/29 • 7-9pm Through the principles of Slow Medicine, learn the keys to a successful relationship, and how to incorporate that into daily life. $50 per couple Slow Medicine for Men - A Men’s Group Monday, 11/28 • 7-8:30pm Cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with other conscious men. $30 Slow Medicine Women’s Wisdom Group Every Wednesday and Friday Supporting each other by recognizing and embracing one’s full authentic being, together nurturing our highest potential. $30 Slow Medicine Family Healing This unique program incorporates a whole systems approach, supporting and nourishing the entire family in all aspects of the life together within the home.

Please call to register for all gatherings: 914-218-3113 SunRaven: 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY SlowMedicineTherapist.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 OM Pajamas Trunk Show – 10am-5pm. Consider the beautiful gift of OM pajamas. All proceeds will go to benefit the Madurai Charitable Trust. This sale will take place in our new studio and gift shop.

Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.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.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Full Moon Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Full Moon Mediation and Manifestation. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Herbal Remedies for Stress – 6:30-8pm. With Lupo Passero. There are many common, safe and effective herbs which can be utilized to support and nourish our often overworked nervous systems. Discuss herbs and share recipes to easily incorporate them into your lifestyle. $25 (free for WCSU students with valid ID). Western CT State University, Midtown Campus, White Hall, Rm 127, Danbury. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com.

TwinStarTribe.com/Events.

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Fairfield County Edition

Rewiring the Brain: What is Neurofeedback? – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D, BCN, LPC - Board Certified in Neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback therapy is a powerful, safe, nonmedication treatment for common childhood and adult issues and disorders. Free. The Office of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att. net. DrRoseann.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Reiki Second Degree workshop – 10am-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.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Sole Awakening Reflexology and Medicinal Aromatherapy Workshop – 1-3:30pm. With Janet Butler and Angelique Clarke. Workshop focuses on boosting the immune system, relaxation and the importance of self-care rituals as we go deeper into the fall-winter season. $45; $50/day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Soul Mediumship with Karen Paolino – 1-2:30pm.

Expand your abilities to hear and feel loved ones in spirit using the powerful modality Soul Entrainment. $33. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 295 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

“The Conversation” - 2 -4pm. Come join our lively conversation on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life options. RSVP. Free. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning at The Liphe Balance Center of Weston. 203-912-2791. Info@AllianceFCT. com. AllianceFCT.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 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.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Sound of Your Dreams – 1:30-3:30pm. With Denise DeSimone. Using sound as a tool for clearing and balancing chakras assists you in breaking through blockages within your body. Experience toning, chanting, chakra clearing, guided visioning, drumming, flute meditation. $30. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 295 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 New Moon Ceremony – 7:15-8:45pm. With Angela Pizzarello. Explore the magic and mystery behind the new moon. Learn to set intentions in a powerful way at this time. Class geared toward women. $25.

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

natural awakenings

markyourcalendar Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center Grand Opening!

Friday, November 4 • 5-9pm Saturday, November 5 • 10am-4pm with evening activities after 7pm 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot Blessing ceremonies from several traditions; tai chi and qi gong demos; meditation experiences; art gallery opening; opportunities to talk to practitioners about various healing modalities; music; refreshments, and more.

860-619-2788 email Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com or visit ValleySpiritCoop.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 13 Moons: A Women’s Healing Circle – 6:308:30pm. Come together as women and healers monthly, the Wednesday closest to the new moon where we explore sacred healing, women’s plant allies, sacred chants and honor the wise woman tradition. $25. 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@ TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 Living in Change Meditation – 7-8pm. Explore how to mindfully let the past be gone, let the future come when it gets here and learn to live with compassion for ourselves in the flow of the present moment. $30.

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-952-6272.

MegReilly360@gmail.comm. MegReilly360.com.

markyourcalendar LifePath Yoga & Wellness Workshop Schedule

October & November The Art of Mindfulness- Meditation Through Mandalas

Saturday, 10/29 • 1:30-3:30pm Reiki Level II Training

Sunday, 10/30 • 11am- 5:30pm Zen and the Art of Seeing Photography Saturday, 11/19 • 1-5:30pm Viniyoga Therapeutics for Back Pain Sunday, 11/6 • 1:30-3:30pm One Year Anniversary Open House Saturday, 11/12 • 8:30-2:30pm Self Care Meditation Friday, 11/18 & 12/16 • 7:15-8:15pm Pranayama Workshop Saturday, 11/20 • 1:30-3:00pm Mindful Writing Sunday, 11/27 • 1:30-3:30pm Register for all workshops at LifePathYoga.net.

For more information, call 203-354-7070 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk

Herbal Reed Diffusers – 7-9pm. Make your own 8-ounce reed diffuser blend. $20/materials included.

The Grounded Goodwife. Address provided at registration. Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 Acro Yoga – 2-4pm.Join Charlie and Maisah for an all-levels exploration into AcroYoga, a delightful blend of yoga, acrobatics, and healing arts. $45/class.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 Music From Memories with Fran Caballero – 1:30-3:30pm. Fran sings hits from the 1930s through present day to benefit the Albertson Church stained glass window fund. Fran will delight you with her smooth vocals and infectious personality. $20. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 295 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Holiday Stroll and Blessing of Animals – 2pm.

Join us in Cannondale Village for a Holiday Stroll and have your pets blessed. Come for Blessing of animals. Free. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton.

Herbal Sleep Pillow Workshop and 1770 House Tour – 2-4pm. With, Ehris Urban and Velya JanczUrban, herbalists/historians. Tour their unique 1770 home and make a customized Herbal Sleep Pillow. No sewing required. $30/materials included.

The Grounded Goodwife Farmhouse, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@yahoo.com.

GroundedGoodwife.com.

markyourcalendar CELEBRATING LIFE AND BEYOND

Alliance For Conscious Transitioning Presents: End-of-Life ‘The Conversation” Join our lively discussions on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life care.

November 10 • 7pm November 20 • 2pm December 6 • 7pm Free Conscious Presence, Conscious Action In the Time of Dying and Death With Robert Sachs Wednesday & Thursday November 2 & 3 $35 for one evening, $60 for both Dreaming and Dying: Pathways to Creativity and Conscious Transition With Deep Arrow, aka Rev. Lorraine Simone Saturday & Sunday November 12 & 13 • 10am -4pm $295 For more information or to register: Call or email Barbara: 203-912-2791 Info@AllianceFCT.com or visit AllianceFCT.com

ongoingcalendar sunday Meditation – 9:30-10:30am. Free Meditation as a give-back to the community. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

Ups and Downs – 4:30-5:30pm. Three sets of weights, different weights bring it up and bring it down, then continuing for muscle exhaustion. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton.

Bliss Out! Dance to Live Drumming – 7-8:30pm.

Dirst Sunday. With Jojo. Find your tribe. Open Sky Yoga Barn, 95 Cross Hwy, Redding. Keane.Jojo@ gmail.com.

Queer Dharma – 7:30-9pm. Dharma traditions and the experience and concerns of LGBTQI individuals and their friends. Meditation instruction, practice, readings and discussion. All welcome. Free, donations accepted. Shambhala Meditation Center New Haven, 85 Willow St, Bldg B, New Haven.

302-990-2437. ArchAlex@live.com. NewHaven.

Shambhala.org.

monday Yoga – 9-10am. With Maria. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

Peaceful and Positive Kids – 4-4:45pm. Starting 10/24, this 5-class series of enrichment classes will provide children ages 4-6 and 7-9 with tools and skills that nurture peace, positivity and compassion of self and others through positive affirmations, mindful activities, guided relaxation stories, soulful stories, positivity, massage trains and more. $95/5 classes. 103 North St, Trumbull. KGrich@charter.net.

KellyGrich.com.

Danzart Buds – 6:30-7:15pm. Danzart Buds is designed to train children age 3 to 7 yrs with the basic of Bharatnatyam footwork, mudras, stretches, and also prepares them for a Bollywood dance performance. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Youth Yoga Course - Fall Session – 7-8pm.

Ages 10+ welcome. Fun loving class is designed to introduce the tradition of yoga, giving students the opportunity to work on flexibility and strength while relieving the stress of daily life. $18/ class. $144/8 classes. The Yoga Shala, 49 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-544-8811. Info@ TheyYogaShalaCT.com. TheYogaShalaCT.com.

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

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

ReddingMeditation.org.

Yoga All Level – 7:15-8:15pm. With Ilana. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

Liphe Balance Center, Weston eNaturalAwakenings.com

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ongoingcalendar 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.

Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. With Lisa. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

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Fairfield County Edition

Primer Mat Pilates – 6:30-7:30pm. With LaurieAnn. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

How to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Tuesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka.

Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. Address provided at registration, Monroe. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@ sbcglobal.net. ResultsBeyondBelief.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 Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares – Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions and if you are a trained healer: reiki or otherwise share and practice your gift. $10.

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

Apothecary Hours – 10am-1pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883.

Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.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

natural awakenings

#5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Hatha Yoga All Level – 6:15-7:15pm. With Taylor. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

High Powered Healing – 7pm. First Wednesday.

Easy ways to well heal on all levels. Intuitive insight, easy methods for daily wellness, how to determine quality foods and abundance. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown.

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

TrinityProduction.org.

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 to 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.

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

Results-BeyondBelief.com.

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 Vinyassa – 9-10am. With Becca. All levels. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

EFT/Meditation for Parents and Caregivers – 10-11am. With Lauren Wolfe. Feeling drained by daily life? Come join other parents and caregivers and make time for self-care. Learn how to decrease stress and ground your energy using these simple techniques. $20/session. The Office of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net.

DrRoseann.com.

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.

EFT/Meditation for Wellness Professionals – 12:15-1pm. With Lauren Wolfe. Wellness professionals need to practice self-care and ground themselves every day. EFT and Meditation will help bring balance, wellness and abundance into your life. $20/session. The Office of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net.

DrRoseann.com.

Peaceful and Positive Kids – 1-1:45 or 4-4:45pm.

Starting 10/27, this 5-class series of enrichment classes will provide children ages 4-6 and 7-9 with tools and skills that nurture peace, positivity and compassion of self and others through positive affirmations, mindful activities, guided relaxation stories, soulful stories, positivity, massage trains and more. $95/5 classes. 103 North St, Trumbull.

KGrich@charter.net. KellyGrich.com.

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.

Lift Everything – 4:30-5:30pm. Strengthen and tone every inch of your body in this class. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Vinyasa Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Open to all levels. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

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.

Shamanic Journeying – 7-8:30pm. First Thursday.

All welcome. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

DEC

LET YOUR LOVE LIGHT SHINE Watch It Brighten Up The Season Advertise in our

December Uplifting Humanity Issue

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

55

friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20.

Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

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.

Apothecary Hours – 11am-4pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883.

Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com.

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.

Kundalini Yoga – 6:30pm. First three Fridays.

With Gina Cassetta and Alisa Andrew, KRI-certified teachers. De-stress through movement, chanting, breathwork, meditation and a deep relaxation and integration period. $15/class or $75/6 classes.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, 24 Clapboard Ridge Rd, Danbury. 203-312-9427.

CassettaWoman@hotmail.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.

56

Fairfield County Edition

Discussion with Spirit – 7:30-9:45pm. Last Friday.

An evening of messages from Spirit and loved ones.

Bring questions, receive channeled information specifically geared to you. $40. Please RSVP. Address provided at registration. HeartAndHealing@ hotmail.com.

saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353.

ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

Plyogalates – 9:30-10:30am. With Lisa. Plyogalates incorporates Pilates, yoga, and plyometrics for full-body fitness. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

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.

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.

Psychic & Mediumship Development – 10amnoon. First and third Saturdays. With Liz Hoy & Bobby Kitsios. Students who want to develop their own spiritual connection. Class requires commitment and dedication to one’s self and their improvement. $20. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

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 OFFICE SHARE FOR HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER available at Ridgefield wellness center. Large treatment room with windows and a peaceful waiting room. Email for details: Info@OsteopathicWellness.net.

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 203-559-6021.

SOUTHBURY CT, HEALTH & WELLNESS, OFFICE FOR RENT: Beautiful, new, quiet, private suite, 200 sq. ft. plus waiting room.

Deposit Required. $950 per month Utilities included. Call 203-966-5509.

SOUTHBURY CT, HEALTH & WELLNESS, OFFICE TO SHARE: Beautiful, new, quiet, private suite, 275 sq. ft. plus waiting room.

Deposit Required. $400 per month. Utilities included. Call 203-966-5509.

SPACIOUS OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE FOR RENT IN WESTPORT Professional office suite with ample parking in rear. $500 per month. 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.

PRODUCTS HOME OF THE $10 YARD STATUE. Pet memorials, Angels, Buddha statues, Bird baths.

Many dog breeds. Shipping worldwide. 75 Laura St, Tiverton, Rhode Island. 401-314-6752.

SpringhillStatuary.com. Open year round.

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 23.

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more. Facial rejuvenation/cosmetic acupuncture also offered. See ad, back cover.

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 17.

BEHAVIORAL THERAPY THE CENTER FOR COGNITIVE & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (CCBH) 5 Sylvan Rd South, Westport 888-745-3372 • 203-307-5788 CCBHTherapy.com

The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health (CCBH) provides individualized mental health services in a warm, holistic environment. Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) teams offer individual, group, and family sessions, as well as skills coaching for all age groups. Our CCBH team offers these therapies along with yoga, mindfulness, meditation and naturopathic services.

See ad, page 63.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

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 40.

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.

CANCER SUPPORT THERAPIES

COLONICS 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.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

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

DORETTE LEWIS-SENIOR, ND, MSAC, BS-RN, LCM Yale New Haven Health, Integrative Medicine 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull 855-735-2533 • Drs2Health.com

Dr. Lewis-Senior has been a Naturopathic physician and healthcare provider for more than thirty years combined. Her focus is on womens’ health, especially cancer, diabetes, weight and pain.

She is experienced using multiple modalities to establish health and bring about healing. Some Insurance accepted.

Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.

CRYSTALS 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.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

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

EDUCATION WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 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 23.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2016

57

END OF LIFE

HEALTH COACH

ALLIANCE FOR CONSCIOUS TRANSITIONING

MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC

At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.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 9.

.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 CTNutritionCenter.com

MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

Dr. Joachim has been in private practice since 1990, specializing in nutrition, natural allergy elimination and functional medicine.

Through specialized testing, he identifies subtle changes in individual physiology which may be at the root of troubling symptoms.

Addressing the underlying dysfunction can help you feel better, for good.

KURT WAPLES, DC

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.

HYPNOSIS MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION

Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.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.

HAIR LOSS & TRICHOLOGY LISA PRIMPS, TRICHOLOGIST, HLP, AT The Primping Place Spa 500 Newfield Ave, Ste 9, Stamford 203-325-9565 • ThePrimpingPlace.com

Fairfield County’s first location offering the XTC Multi Theraputic Hair Growth System including non-invasive low level laser therapy- clinically proven and shown to be safe & effective at regrowing hair and creating a healthy scalp.

The Primping Place also offers electrolysis & clinical skin care since 1992.

Fairfield County Edition

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 JOACHIM, DC, FIAMA

58

Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com

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

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

Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, page 3.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM 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 13.

natural awakenings

YUFANG LIN, MD

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.

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, weight reduction programs, IV vitamin/minerals treatments, allergy evaluation and treatment, fibromyalgia care and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

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 17.

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. DR. CHRISTINE VILLANI 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.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

MASSAGE SCHOOL

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

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.

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 19.

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 12.

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.

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation.

Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, back cover.

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 16.

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 25.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support.

She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 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.

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.

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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.

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PILATES

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.

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 13.

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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

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.

MARIA C CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 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 29.

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

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

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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.

natural awakenings

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.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 19.

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

Kaia Yoga Studio, Westport and Fairfield near Merritt exit 46 Sachi: 203-216-9720 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com Mikel: 203-216-9770 Mikel@WestportRolfing.com 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 15.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com

7eFIT SPA

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com

Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 10.

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. See ad, page 4.

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.

Fit Spa

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA ™

787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com

A new way to looking and feeling good.

TAI CHI/QI GONG

KURE SPA

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

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

SALTANA CAVE

WELLNESS CENTER

430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

Relax while our technology

Kure Spa rovides a Develop physical and mental place for people to fitness and find a new harmony rely on as part of of the mind, body and spirit their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. using ancient Chinese arts.

No surgery invasive procedures.

Experience or our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and Starting with basic movements, we’ll transform your life to one of health, healing Infrared Sauna • Micro-dermabrasion w a r m - u p t e c h n i q u e s a n d and vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage and an breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing organic juice page 3.

Myolift • bar.

TorcSee•ad,Body Waxing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekendDiet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki LIFEPATH YOGA & WELLNESS workshops and retreats. See ad, back cover.

Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials

does the work.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection.

20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 21.

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.

Nina Antolino, Owner 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk Teeth Whitening 203-354-7070 Nina@LifePathYoga.net Save Now with LifePathYoga.net

Introductory Prices!

LifePath Yoga & Wellness is a center Call 203-356-5822 for yoga, mindfulness, empowerment and transformation. Classes,

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.

STERN WELLNESS CENTER

20 North Salem Road, Cross River, NY SternWellnessCenter.com 914-763-8000 When there is an interference, the body loses its ability to heal. Our goal is to unlock the healing potential within you through holistic approaches; wellness chiropractic & network spinal analysis, massage therapy, integrative nutrition, transformational coaching and reiki healing. Call today for a complimentary wellness consultation.

workshops and healing arts serv- CT 06905 1092 High Ridge Road | Stamford, ices include yoga, mindfulness SUNRAVEN: THE HOME 7efitspact1@gmail.com meditation, Reiki, |lifewww.7efitspa.com coaching, OF SLOW MEDICINE women’s wellness/empowerment, holistic education, corporate wellness and creative arts.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui & Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing.

We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events.

See ad, page 19.

501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicine.org Promoting and supporting health and wellness; facilitating community-centered experiential and reflective learning for individuals, families, and groups, by offering educational programs, events, and resources designed to build integrative skills and understanding for those looking to holistically care for themselves, others, and the world in which we live.

Transformative programs, holistic medicine, psychospiritual counseling; women’s, men’s and couples groups, garden co-op, cleansing program; special 12-week “immersion”. See ad, page 13.

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COSMIC RHYTHMS

by Alethea Hunt

G

displayadvertiserindex 7e Fit Spa Acupuncture Healing CT/ Jody Eisemann Alliance for Conscious Transitioning

4 17 9

reat vibes for love, money and friendship are in the air early November as Venus glides toward alignment with the social, liberating and possibly rule-breaking Uranus, all while escaping the iron grasp of restrictive Saturn. With Venus gaining further support from Jupiter, recognize situations and/or people that may have been holding you down or back as you move toward cultivating connections based more on mutual growth and evolution. Circulate and tap your social networks for fiscal or romantic opportunities; online dating or even Meetup groups may prove to be a blessing. Social spheres become very active once Mars enters Aquarius on November 9, igniting an almost two-month energy exchange with Uranus in Aries.

November’s second week is characterized by an energetic flux with three planets all switching signs from November 9 through 12. Try to hold off on any major decisions or actions during these days; ideally, wait it out until each planet gets situated in its new sign to see if any changes surface and impact the situation. Next comes a full moon in Taurus on November 14; be strategic with cash around this time and watch who you’re mingling financial or other energies with; complicated scenarios can arise.

That aside, Medicine Man Chiron contacts this moon; maybe try out a drum circle and honor Mother Earth because there is magic in the earth for sure, and it can facilitate emotional healing.

The dominant astrological feature of the month is a square between Jupiter and Pluto, exact on Thanksgiving but active all month. Primarily this represents a clash between the forces of expansion (Jupiter) and destruction (Pluto). Something in your life is growing even as something else may be falling apart. There is a good chance this growth relates to a partnership or union, while the collapse may be career-related. It could pertain to a financial implosion since Venus is also involved or it may represent degradation in the state of a relationship with a parent. Let love lift you up; understand that it’s only structures with rotten footings that topple. Look at the big picture to balance any sense of loss.

As an aside, with this vibe, it might not be wise to pick now to introduce a significant other to parents at Thanksgiving. It also may not be the time to use this energy to go away with a love interest on someone else’s tab, particularly if on work-related business as it could damage your relationship with your employer. Another way this could play out may be corporate downsizing or layoffs affecting the availability of funds to travel and see in-laws for the holidays. Although these are some examples, be aware of the general tension between the expansive, open vibe of Jupiter and the darker, potent, potentially power struggle-laden undercurrents of Pluto. On a psychological level, understand the energy of this square can also relate to relationship growth undermined by fear or defensiveness; if so, get a handle on this as soon as possible so as not to lose a good thing.

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 40

Naam Yoga CT

19

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

Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market

38

Nature’s Way Natural Foods

28

Neal’s Yard Remedies/ Sherrylee Dickinson

21

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

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Olivette 37

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical

2

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental

2

Robin Ordan, Coach

31

Robin Ordan, LMT

12

Robin Ordan, LCSW

29 15

The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health

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Origin Fitness

Chamomille Natural Foods

37

Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc

CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard

23

Destination Wellness Expo

40

Divine Treasures

9

8

Julie Punishill

21

Ann Reeves

12

The Sacred Spirit

29

Salon Aponte 9 Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine 31 Salt of the Earth Healing Arts

Sanctuary 4 Embody the Sacred 12 Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND 5 Janet Ettele 11 Eyecare Associates 17 Victoria Shaw, PhD

The SNO Company Final Journey LLC 46 Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli Forza Five Holistic Fitness & Healing Center 28 Sticks & Stones Farm Debra Gibson, ND

7

Germosen Jewelry/Denisse Germosen 41 Hands and Paws Reiki for All

17

Harbor Harvest

23

Hunter Healing Hands

10

Insight Counseling

26

Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 19

15 48 12 29

Sun Raven, the home of Slow Medicine

13

Hilda Swaby

21

Total Life Care Center

21

Touch of Sedona

5

Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 42

Keller Williams/Miale Team

15

Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center

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Kindred Spirits

31

Vox Eorum

29

Kure Spa

3

Beth Leas

21

Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND

25

MarkNet Group

13

Westbrook Nature School

23

Westport Farmers Market

38

Westport Rolfing

15

Whole Fit Studio

19

Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

3

Natural Health & Wellness Center 16

Xlear 50 The Yoga Shala

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November 2016

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& Wellness Center warmly invites you to join us for our

Friday,

GRAND OPENING

Nov. 4th

5pm to

9pm

6 G r e e n H i l l R d , Wa s h i n g t o n D e p o t , C T Native American Blessing w/ Terri Delahanty Tibetan Buddhist Blessing w/ Geshe Tenzin Yangton Tai Chi and Qi Gong Demos & Participation w/ Jampa Stewart FREE Chair Massages & Live Music

Saturday,

Nov. 5th

REFRESHMENTS from Hidden Valley Eatery & Zaika Indian Cuisine

FREE OPEN HOUSE FESTIVITIES

Meditation with Geshe Tenzin Yangton 11:00 Tai Chi with Jampa Stewart 11:30 Yin Yoga with Pauline Koinis 12:00 Tibetan Energy Exercises (Tsalung) 10:15

4pm

Acupuncture Demonstration with Jampa Stewart

2:00

Storytelling for All Ages with Cynthia DePecol & Jampa Stewart

Flow Yoga with Lela Ilyinsky 3:00 Drama Therapy/Drama Play with Kelley Boianghu 3:30 Five Animal Frolics Qigong with Jampa Stewart 2:30

w/Alex Boianghu

Journey Dance w/ Kelley Boianghu 1:00 Kundalini Yoga with Cynthia DePecol 12:30

Contact Us:

1:30

10am to

Nov. 5th Evening Schedule:

Tel: 860-619-2788 E: info@valleyspiritcoop.com

7:00pm

Right Brain Group

Kirtan and Singing with Sonam Targee Drum Circle | Dance Institute

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. Vnatural a l awakenings l e y S p i r i t C o o p . c o m