Natural Awakenings Fairfield County March 2015

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Animals at Risk

FREE

How We Can Help

Debunking Common

Fitness Myths

Tend Your Ordering Inner Garden Healthy Grow Good “Thought-Seeds”

Good-to-Go Eats

March 2015 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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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

5520 Park Ave., Trumbull / Fairfield town line at Exit 47 off Merritt Pkwy

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

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.

Office located on the Fairfield/Trumbull line

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

Fairfield County Edition

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20 INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC

30

HEALTH STUDIES AT WCSU

Empowering the Next Generation

by Natasha Michaels

28 CREATING SPIRITUAL

CONVERSATION

Buddhist Meditation Groups Forming

by Nicole Miale

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It Pays to Watch What Is Planted

by Dennis Merritt Jones

33 MISSION: ANIMAL RESCUE

Big and Small, They Need Our Help

by Sandra Murphy

38 CATHERINE VIOLET

HUBBARD ANIMAL SANCTUARY

Honoring Passion for Animals

33

in One Girl’s Memory

by Leslie McLean

40 CONNECTICUT TO THE

48

RESCUE FOR HORSES

by Jennifer McDermott

44 LOCAL SOURCES FOR

HEALTHY READY-MADE FOOD ON THE GO

by Leslie Beech

48 POPULAR FITNESS MYTHS 50 Seven Common Maxims that Can Cause Harm

by Leslie Perry Duffy

50 A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO COMPOSTING

Pick the Best Option for You

by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

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7 newsbriefs 20 communityspotlight 23 healthbriefs 25 globalbriefs 28 communityspotlight 42 inspiredtable 48 fitbody 50 greenliving 52 naturallyhealthypet 25 56 communityspotlight 58 calendar 64 classifieds 65 resourceguide 70 cosmicrhythms 70 displayadindex 71 productmarketplace

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WHY AN ORGANIC MATTRESS IS RIGHT FOR YOU

While we sleep, our immune system recovers and prepares for the day ahead. If your mattress is filled with airborne allergens and chemical toxins, your immune system will battle these rather than repair itself. Regular bedding & mattresses are laden with polyurethane foam, toxic flame retardants, and water or stain resistant chemicals.

Organic Innerspring Mattresses Our cotton innerspring mattresses are made with organic cotton batting and organic wool — free from chemicals and pesticides! Great for those who are chemically sensitive or allergic to latex. A good fit for families on a budget because an innerspring is generally less expensive than a latex mattress.

Natural Latex Organic Mattresses When it comes to latex there’s “natural” and then there’s “all natural”. We sell only “all natural” latex mattresses so you sleep chemical-free. Beware mattress stores online and in your neighborhood selling “natural” or “green” or “sustainable” foam mattresses.

This is “green wash” marketing hype.

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Natasha Michaels Mary Oquendo Sales & Marketing Leslie McLean Nicole Miale Francesca Moscatelli Virginia Trinque Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

his photo was taken six years ago, in the moments I met my first rescue furkid, a 6-monthold husky puppy named Shiloh. She was found wandering the streets of Tennessee and traveled via volunteer transport to my home to become my soul companion. She now resides with a rescued malamute and four rescued cats; we are a full pack. I can’t remember a time when animals weren’t an integral part of my life. I still have the dog-eared copies of James Herriott’s All Creatures Great and Small series that my grandmother gave me when I was 12 years old. The bonds I have had with a few animals in my life rival in significance some of the human relationships I’ve enjoyed. To me and many others, they Nicole Miale & Shiloh are not “just” animals. As Deana Paqua, a local teacher and contributor this month, notes in her article, ancient cultures had no separate name for animals; they were just known as “other people.” The photo accompanying that article – the final portrait by the photographer of she and her beloved dog Cheech – speaks of the bond that can form between people and animals. It is a precious and irreplaceable connection for those who choose to allow it. See page 31 for more about Andrea’s work with pets and their owners at end-of life.

In this issue, we look at some international and local efforts underway to save, protect, and rehabilitate animals – of all shapes and sizes – that are threatened or injured. We highlight a few special rescue efforts ongoing in our local area, including an inspirational animal sanctuary being established in Newtown in the name of one of the victims of the Sandy Hook tragedy. Catherine Violet Hubbard was only six when she died, but her passion for animals was so powerful that today it infuses her parents’ efforts to honor her memory by creating a place of refuge for domestic, farm and wild animals.

If animals aren’t your thing, not to worry! There are lots of other interesting topics in this issue for you. We take a look at what’s available locally for healthier eating in the “grab-and-go” arena, dispel some common fitness myths and introduce you to some forward-thinking educational leaders in the Danbury area. We provide practical advice for successful composting and tending your inner mind garden – mind those “thought-seeds” because what you nurture will indeed grow!

As we do every month, we feature in our News Briefs and Calendar sections an array of fantastic events and happenings to suit every style, interest and taste.

March seems to be a month that everyone comes out of semi-hibernation … many events are scheduled and we look forward to seeing you at many of them!

With love and light,

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 70.

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newsbriefs Halo Opens in New Canaan

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new wellness collaborative in New Canaan housing eleven studios and suites, Halo is now open for business. Featuring an organic cafe, fitness center, cooperative store, tennis club and locker rooms – with no membership requirements - the center is open Monday through Friday from 5:30am to 9:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm.

Patrons can purchase a day pass to exercise at Halo Fitness or sign up for Banish the Blues at Pryority Fitness, BioCored for Tennis Players at Bodymechanics, a Sama Yoga Center class, or Barres, Bells and Bands with Nearwater Pilates. Halo Studios is also featuring Walter Schalk School of Dance, Curcio Training, The Ernest Way, the Melt Method

by Interplay Health, and meditation with Beth Leas and the Community Mindfulness Project. Norwalk Hospital’s Center for Integrative Medicine will also operate a satellite office at Halo, offering a range of diverse services.

Halo is a member of the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce and an ongoing supporter of the Getabout, Staying Put in New Canaan and the Norwalk Grassroots Tennis Program.

For more information, call 203-594-9909 or visit HaloStudios. com, Facebook.com/HaloHealthandWellness, Instagram. com/HalostudiosNewCanaan or Halo Studios, LLC on LinkedIn. Location: Halo Studios, 45 Grove St, New Canaan.

Firefly Family Yoga Announces Grand Opening Firefly Family Yoga of Ridgefield’s grand opening will take place on March 1.

Dedicated to facilitating yoga practice for the whole family, Firefly Family Yoga will offer Vinyasa, prenatal, postnatal, Mommy/Daddy and me, kids, teen, mens’, seniors and Logo fonts: Melanieand (Modified ) gentle yoga classes with certified experienced instructors.

Futura Medium

“We can all be compassionate to others but, most imporColors: tantly, to ourselves. The practice of yoga teaches us how to Purple Green Yellow do just that. Whether coming Cto60 the mat C 50 for the C 0first time as M 0 M 0 M 90 an expectant mother, a toddler, or an adult, yoga has Y 0 a teen Y 100 Y 100 K 0 0 K 0 something for everyone, and that welcoming,K warm environWeb Web ment is what we try to captureWeb at Firefly Family Yoga,” says #8CC63E #FFF100 #7E3F98 owner and longtime Ridgefield resident Ellen Bonheim.

PMS PMS PMS 3945

A fully insured instructor 526 of yoga 367 for all ages, Bonheim completed her Vinyasa yoga certification in 2011, her prenatal and postnatal yoga certification in 2012 and children’s yoga and teen yoga certification a year ago. All teachers at Firefly are certified for the yoga practices they teach. The new studio will feature a series that concentrate on specific clients, needs or elements of yoga practice. Family wellness services such as nutrition workshops geared toward prenatal moms and the entire family will also be offered.

Studio-g 860-210-0639 studiogweb.com

For more information, visit FireflyFamilyYoga.com or call 203-431-0140. Location: 85 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield.

Areas Newest Yoga Studio

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Photos By Kelly McGarvey Photography

www.Kure-Spa.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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newsbriefs A Course in Waking Comes to Norwalk

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arry Ford is on a mission to help people wake up and live life on purpose. Dubbed the “Shaman of Wall Street” by the Washington Post, Ford is an author, syndicated columnist, teacher and spiritual healer. On March 17, he brings his Course in Waking to Norwalk’s Total Life Care (TLC) Center.

“Our job on this earth is to align our ‘being’ with our ‘doing.’ When our soul’s vibration is aligned with our physical existence, we are in authentic power,” Larry Ford Ford says. “When it is out of alignment it is like a tire out of balance bumping down the highway, or a song that is out of tune. Living this way is not sustainable so eventually life wakes you in the form of an initiation. What if life was one big conspiracy designed to remind you that you are here for a reason? And, what if the reason we can’t see this guidance is because we are asleep?

This 6-week course is designed to help you as you wake.” The course will meet on Tuesdays beginning March 17 from 7 to 8:30pm at the TLC Center in Norwalk. The cost is $375 per person.

To register for the course, call 860-659-8299, extension 302, or email Lise@LarryFord.org. For more information about Larry Ford, visit LarryFord.org. Location: TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

Find Health and Wellness In Your Community

O

n March 27, Total Wellness Connect (TWC) will hold its third quarterly Health & Wellness Mini Expo, where local health and wellness businesses will feature their products and services. The event will be held free of charge at Pure Barre in Darien from 6 to 8pm.

By incorporating networking, social media advertising, education and community events, TWC connects health and wellness professionals to each other and their local communities. Within 9 months, TWC has grown three networking chapters, including Norwalk, Stamford and Fairfield. By September 2015, TWC plans to open 4 more chapters in Fairfield County as well as expand to Long Island.

“We each have one body and at one point or another, it needs healing. There are thousands of healing methods, but many of us only stick to what we know, which is not always the best choice! The more we know about what is available, the better we are able to maintain and improve our health in a lasting, natural manner,” states Kristina Centnere, the founder of TWC. For more information on upcoming meetings and events, visit Facebook.com/TotalWellnessConnect.

See ad, page 26.

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 8

Fairfield County Edition

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Debra Gibson, ND

Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center Opens

WCSU Holds 12th Annual Holistic Health Fair

oAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT, of Turning Point Reiki, LLC has opened Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center in Ridgefield. The center’s practitioners and teachers provide a variety of health and wellness services for mind, body and spirit.

Inserra Duncan has had her practice in Ridgefield for 15 years and will continue to offer Usui Reiki, Karuna Reiki, Cell Memory Technique, IET and JoAnn Inserra Duncan Reiki shares, as well as teach all levels of Reiki and many other specialized classes. She also facilitates the Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group, which meets the third Wednesday night of the month.

Three other practitioners comprise the core team at the new center. Mary Beth Johnston, LMT, RMT, offers Swedish, deep tissue, relaxation and sports massage; Brenda Story, RMT, practices a variety of energy healing modalities, including Reiki with crystals, Sacred Childbirth with Reiki and shamanic Reiki; and Stacy Raymond, PsyD, offers traditional and alternative approaches (EMDR, EFT and Heart Math/Inner Balance) to depression, anxiety and recovery from trauma, including sports PTSD.

As the healing arts and education center expands, future offerings will include reflexology, craniosacral therapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture, health coaching and nutrition counseling.

n April 2 from 11am to 2pm, Western Connecticut State University’s (WCSU) Institute for Holistic Health Studies will hold the 12th Annual Holistic Health Fair. In the past, there have been over 40 exhibitors presenting information on varied topics including meditation, nutrition, tai chi, yoga, Tibetan singing bowls and more. Reiki masters will be providing 15-minute experiential sessions.

The health fair is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted to support the health fair and other events, as well as student awards. Exhibitor opportunities are still available.

The Institute for Holistic Health Studies is housed within WCSU’s Department of Health Promotion and Exercise Sciences (HPX). The institute’s mission is to provide the university and the Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore the different aspects of holistic health through programming and instruction. Events for this spring include a weekly meditation, Wellness Wednesday Workshops and more.

The HPX department offers two baccalaureate degree programs: Health Education Pre-K–12 and Health Promotion Studies (HPS). The HPS degree has two options – Community Health and Wellness Management and a Holistic Health option to begin in fall 2015.

J

For more information, visit TurningPointReiki.com, TurningPointShare.com, or Turning Point Reiki, LLC and Turning Point Healing Arts, LLC on Facebook. For space for your practice or to teach workshops or classes, call 203-438-3050. Location: 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 69.

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For additional information, visit WCSU.edu/HPX or call Robyn Housemann at 203-376-5840 or Elaine Generoso at Generoso002@Connect.WCSU.edu. Location: Warner Hall, Midtown Campus, Western Connecticut State University, Danbury.

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newsbriefs

Awaken Fair, Body-Mind-Spirit Expo, Returns to Tarrytown

Business Opportunity with Natural Anti-Aging Product

F

or years, Donna Milana worked as a beauty advisor for well-known cosmetics companies and the experience led her to explore various products to help people look and feel their best. But, it was an injury that led her to try Liquid BioCell, an all-natural anti-aging supplement designed to ease joint pain and promote healthier, youngerlooking skin.

“I hurt my back last spring and needed to find a product that could help me with the pain and discomfort,” she says.

Donna Miana “A friend recommended Liquid BioCell, and it worked so well for my back problems that I signed up with the company. I’m excited about it because I really care about people, and I’ve helped many people already. Now I hope to help more people get better, and I also can show them how to start a business with this product.”

Liquid BioCell, which is covered by seven patents, is gluten- and GMO-free, Milana states. “It is proven to help protect and rebuild joint cartilage and prevent deterioration,” she says. “It is a safe and effective way to relieve joint discomfort and potentially help people avoid joint replacement surgery and injections. It contains an ingredient called Jusuru, which reduces the enzyme that can make skin age. The supplement has been clinically proven as a way to greatly reduce wrinkles without cosmetic injections.”

For more information, contact Donna Milana at 914-882-9758 or DonnaHealthyLife123@gmail.com, or visit HealthyLegs123.com.

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waken Wellness Fair returns to its home base in Westchester on March 15 from 10am to 5pm at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown, New York.

Designed to be fun and educational, the body-mind-spirit-green expo includes two rooms of speakers with a continuous program of 45-minute presentations. The focus in one room will be more scientific, the other more metaphysical, with no additional charge to attend the talks. Another area will feature more than 20 intuitive readers and a dozen healers practicing a variety of modalities. (Discounted appointments with readers and healers can be made in advance after purchase of an expo ticket online.) In the hotel’s main ballroom, a variety of vendors will offer the latest products and services to support a healthy lifestyle, ranging from Ayurvedic doctors to vendors of crystals, nutritional supplements and organic cleaning products.

For 13 years, this wellness-focused, educational and experiential event has attracted well over 100 exhibitors each spring and fall to Tarrytown, says organizer Paula Caracappa.

“Attendance has grown from 42 people at the first event in 2002 to a thousand in recent years, and this year the fair has expanded to seven events in the tri-state,” she says. “But the goal remains to introduce wellness services and products that are available today. The fair attracts people who are curious about holistic practices, from ancient modalities to cuttingedge healing and wellness methods.”

Visit AwakenFair.com to participate as a speaker, vendor or company; to preview exhibitors; or to purchase a discounted ticket. Click on “Tarrytown 3-15-15.” Location: Doubletree Hotel, 455 S Broadway (Rte 9), Tarrytown, NY. See ad, page 3.

Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center

Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Rev. Shawn Moninger, Minister 3 Main St, 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922, www.unitycenterps.org

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Fairfield County Edition

We are a New Thought movement for people who are seeking a positive alternative to traditional religion.

We believe that God is good and so are we. We practice practical spirituality to make everday living better.

We laugh, we sing, we pray, we have fun and we like to make new friends. Won’t you become one of them?

For a listing of our events see the calendar in the back of this issue

natural awakenings

Joining Forces to Launch Twin Star Herbs & ah Yoga

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

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

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant

L

upo Passero, owner of Twin Star Herbal Education in New Milford, and Anne Hungerford, owner and director of the ah Yoga &Wellness Center in New Preston, are joining forces and expanding their existing businesses in New Milford. They will be sharing a spacious studio on the corner of Bank and Railroad Street in the historic downtown New Milford area.

As part of the new Twin Star Herbs & ah Yoga, Hungerford will offer yoga classes with help from other area yoga teachers while Passero will run herbal education classes, energy healing classes and an apothecary and a boutique. In addition to each of their regular weekly class schedules, they will be hosting a variety of special guest teachers, motivational speakers and healing arts providers.

Classes will begin March 1. Twin Star is now accepting enrollment for its Foundations of Herbalism class, which begins March 27.

Combining the best of traditional

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

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com

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

Plans to protect air and water, wilderness and wildlife are in fact plans to protect man. ~Stewart Udall

The Cleanest Touch LLC Bringing nature to your home

Your home is an extension of your body and spirit.

Shouldn’t it be a healthy, stress-free environment?

We are proud to introduce our new HOUSE GREEN CLEANING SERVICES in Fairfield County, CT. We use only “clean” products, including our signature products made with essential oils.

For a free estimate, call us at 203-260-3087 www.thecleanesttouch.com Now serving these areas of Fairfield County: Fairfield, Norwalk, Trumbull, Westport, Wilton, Weston, and Darien.

For more information, visit TwinStarHerbal.com or call 203-313-7883. For more information on the yoga classes, call 860-868-6707. Location: Twin Star Herbs & ah Yoga, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

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March 2015

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th

US SPIRITIST SYMPOSIUM CONNECTICUT 2015

LABORATORY OF THE B as e d o n t he A r t ic les o f A l l an Kard e c ’s “ Spirit ist Rev iew ”

Saturday - May 2, 2015 10 am - 7 pm

Stamford Marriot Hotel

Presentations include: The Core of Spiritism Event organized by Poetry by the Spirits the US Spiritist Mozart’s New Piano Sonata Council Publishing the Word of the Spirits Mysterious Drawings Through Mediums Photography of Thought & Rare Phenomena Communications of the Spirit Allan Kardec

Register at SpiritualityNow.net $20 registration fee. FREE Parking at the hotel w/ validation.

(Youth activities available 2nd-12th grades. Registration required.)

The Center for Natural Medicine

Are You Looking For A Doctor Who Will Address More Than Just Your Symptoms?

• Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia

• Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • Prostate Disorders • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss

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

Dr. Kulveen Virdee

Naturopathic Physician

Dr. Andrew Cummins Naturopathic Physician

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Herbalist & Reiki Master

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Integrative Nutrition Health Coach

Shannon D. Reynolds

Dr. Ellen Lewis

Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Massage Therapist Medical Director NEW LOCATION March 1st - 8 Lincoln Street, Westport, CT 06880 260 Riverside Avenue p 203.916.4600 www.ShalvaClinic.org Westport, CT 06880 f 203.916.4601 Info@ShalvaClinic.org Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy C l a s s e s & Wo r k s h o p s

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

newsbriefs Finger Lakes School of Massage Open House March 18

F

inger Lakes School of Massage (FLSM) in Westchester is holding an open house March 18 from 6 to 8 pm Alumni, instructors and current students at the school will be on hand to talk about how to turn the gift of touch into a career in the growing field of therapeutic massage therapy.

The art of therapeutic massage is often compared to braille, as the practitioner uses his or her fingers to “read” the human body. Those interested in a career in therapeutic massage can visit the open house to learn the benefits of massage, the rewards of a career in massage, and what is required to become a licensed massage therapist in New York. Representatives from FLSM’s financial aid department will be available to explain the various options for paying tuition.

Reservations are required, but the event is free and open to everyone. All attendees will receive a complimentary chair massage from an FLSM student.

For more info, visit FLSM.com or call 914-241-7363 to reserve a seat at the open house. Location: Finger Lakes School of Massage, Westchester, 272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY. See ad, page 23.

Psychic Saturday in Danbury

P

romotions in Motion, an area event production and promotion company, will host a Psychic Saturday on March 14 from noon to 4pm. The event offers various kinds of readings from mediumship, intuitive, tarot and more.

Appointments may be scheduled in advance through the website at PromotionsIn Motion.net/Events/Psychic Saturday. Walk-ins are also welcome. Readings are $35 for 15 minutes or $60 for 30 minutes.

For more information, contact Event Producer Cathy Moore, at 203-733-0286 or email Cathy@PromotionsInMotion.net.

Location: Promotions in Motion, 1 Padanaram Rd (in the lower level of Peacock Alley in the North St Shopping Center), Danbury.

Enrollment Begins for the Institute of Sustainable Nutrition

T

he Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) in West Granby is now enrolling students for the 2015/2016 session of its unique, one-year certification program. This experiential and interactive program is held on weekends and is designed to teach participants how to create resilient soil health in their gardens, participate in the food community, and create individual health through enriched lifestyle and nutrition.

Students learn about the plant model, conduct soil testing, plant garlic, start seeds and tend crops as they grow.

They build and keep a beehive as well as forage for wild food to prepare at the farm. In addition to learning about the cultural and scientific aspects of nutrition, students practice mindful eating and enjoy meals prepared together.

An early tuition discount of $1500 is available for students enrolling by March 31.

For more information, call 860-764-9070 or visit TIOSN.com.

See ad, page 45.

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Workshops with Westbrook Nature School

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hroughout the spring, Redding’s Westbrook Nature School is offering workshops to provide support in the areas of parenting, music, nutrition, arts and crafts, and the deepening of your family’s relationship with nature.

On March 21 from 10am to noon, Westbrook Nature School will host a Needle Felting workshop. Attendees will learn the basics of needle felting in colorful, nature-inspired designs.

Tea and cookies will be served. The workshop will be $25 per person, which includes all materials. Through June 5, Westbrook Nature School’s parent-child class takes place on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9 to11am. The parent toddler groups, which meet once a week for two hours, are for parents and caregivers with children from birth to 3 years of age.

Westbrook Nature School is a mixed-age kindergarten providing nature-based education, enrichment, and opportunities to celebrate the gifts and wonders of nature in community through seasonal festivals, workshops and other events.

Westbrook offers parent-child classes, mixed-age kindergarten, adult workshops, playdays and seasonal events.

For more information, visit WestbrookNatureSchool.org or call 203-664-1554. Location: Westbrook Nature School, 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding. See ad, page 26.

Come visit

The Common Bond Market • Store-made hot food and soups every day, with vegan and vegetarian options • Made-to-order sandwiches at our deli

• Premade salads for a quick and healthful meal • Natural and grass-fed meats and cheeses

• Catering by our chef

• A wide variety of gluten-free products

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March 2015

13

newsbriefs NEWLIFE Expo Comes to the Big Apple

Float for a Cause Art Show & Celebration in Stratford

M

ore than 200 innovative, cutting-edge exhibitors and leading authors and thought leaders in complementary holistic medicine will highlight the annual NEWLIFE Expo 2015, which will be held at Manhattan’s Hotel NEW Pennsylvania March 20 from 3:30 YORK on CITY HOTEL PENNSYLVANIA HOTEL PENNSYLVANIA to 10pm, March 21 from 10am to 9pm, and March 22 from 33rd 33rd Street Street && 7th 7th Avenue Avenue 11am to 7:30pm.

THREE DAYS OF NATURAL OF

The large holistic health, alternative medicine, antiHEALTH & ENLIGHTENMENT aging, metaphysical and spiritual expo, which has taken 150 EXHIBITS 150 SPEAKERS SPEAKERS •• 150 EXHIBITS place for more than 25 years, will150 feature presentations by WORKSHOPS WORKSHOPS •• PANELS PANELS FREE LECTURES SPECIAL FREEMiracle”, LECTURES SPECIAL EVENTS Dr. Robert Young, author ofEVENTS “the•• Ph Mas Sajady, FREE FREE SAMPLES SAMPLES FREE CONCERTS CONCERTS •• FREE Gail Thackray, Kat James, Sean Morton and over 150 expert GAIL GAIL THACKRAY THACKRAY •• MAS MAS SAJADY SAJADY holistic practitioners appearing hourly throughout the event.

SEAN QI FEILONG FEILONG SEAN DAVID DAVID MORTON MORTON •• QI •• BRENDA ROBERT BRENDA COBB COBBby many as a DR.Becker, ROBERT YOUNG YOUNG

Presented by MarkDR. regarded CALL FOR “Renaissance man entrepreneur”, CALL 516-897-0900 516-897-0900 FOR the event also showcases FREE •• PRE-REGISTRATION DISCOUNTS FREE BROCHURE BROCHURE PRE-REGISTRATION DISCOUNTS informative booths with product information and samples; EXHIBITING EXHIBITING •• SPEAKING SPEAKING •• ADVERTISING ADVERTISING •• VOLUNTEERING VOLUNTEERING mini back massages and palm readings; www.NewLifeExpo.com www.NewLifeExpo.com musical and dance performances; a natural foods dining area; and a bookstore.

MARCH 20-22

For more information and a free brochure, to pre-register or volunteer at the event, call 516-897-0900 or visit NewLifeExpo.com. Cost: $20/day at the door; preregistration discounts are available. Location: 401 Seventh Ave off 33rd St, New York, NY.

W

estport’s iFloat and Stratford’s FTS Gallery are co-sponsoring the Float for a Cause Art Show and Celebration at the gallery in Stratford on March 14 from 6 pm to midnight.

The event developed from the iFloat Artist program, in which artists are given three complimentary floatation sessions in exchange for a work of art inspired by their experiences. Art pieces include paintings, graphics art, photography and sculpture. The event is free and open to the public. Food, drinks, music and dancing will be offered, along with the opportunity to experience locally created art.

All art pieces will be sold the night of the event (or in the succeeding two weeks) and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity chosen by the iFloat and FTS community. iFloat is a stress reduction and mind education center in Westport, providing sensory isolation floatation sessions to people throughout Fairfield County.

For more information, contact David Conneely at 203-2267378. To RSVP, contact Lisa@iFloatCT.com or 203-226-7378.

Location: FTS Gallery (2nd flr), Academy Hill Square Shopping Center, 2415 Main St, Stratford. See ad, page 19.

HVWS OpenHouse_7.5x3.25_4C_NatAwake_02282015_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 1/13/15 11:40 AM Page 1

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Saturday, February 28

Come and experience our play-based Early Childhood curriculum and our art-rich academics for Grades 1 - 8.

REGISTER TODAY: www.waldorfct.org/visit or call 203.364.1113 14

Fairfield County Edition

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March 2015

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newsbriefs RVNA Health Fair Features Holistic Health Speakers

Ridgefield Health and Wellness Council Officers

M

embers of the Health & Wellness Council of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce will be featured speakers at the upcoming Ridgefield Visiting Nurses Association’s (RVNA) 41st Annual Health & Wellness Fair on March 28 from 10am to 2pm. Held at East Ridge Middle School in Ridgefield once per year, the fair showcases products and services from local businesses and practitioners and provides attendees with opportunities for health screenings. Admission to the event and all screenings are free of charge for all members of the community.

The Health & Wellness Council of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce is a group of health and wellness professionals who work collaboratively to promote health and wellness. Their mission is to promote health and wellness in Ridgefield and neighboring towns. The presenters at the RVNA event this year will include: Council President and Nutrition Therapist Meredith Mulhearn, Council Treasurer and ICF-credentialed Coach Dina Markind, Reiki Master and Healer JoAnn Inserra Duncan of Turning Point Reiki Healing and Education Center, Certified Integrative Health Coach Christel Autuori, and Doris Hanley, a Juice Plus distributor and healthy eating educator.

The council members’ talks – which include topics such as energy healing, stress management, and increasing fruit and vegetable intake - begin at 10:30am and will conclude at 1 pm with Council Secretary Sharon Todd of Redding Center for Meditation providing an experiential “meditation moment” for interested attendees.

For more information, contact RVNA at 203-438-5555 or Info@RidgefieldVNA.org. For information about the Health & Wellness Council, contact the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce at, 203-438-5992. RVNA Health & Wellness Fair location: East Ridge Middle School, 10 East Ridge Rd, Ridgefield.

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Fairfield County Edition

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ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

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Summer Princess Dagmar Krůšková Cover artist Dagmar Krůšková fashions whimsical art in many forms from his small studio in the Czech Republic.

Although his artistic interests are wideranging, he focuses mostly on painting, drawing and interior design.

Krůšková develops both handdrawn pictures and design patterns and motifs for blinds and curtains for the home. “My children were the initial inspiration for my journey in becoming an artist. I wanted something colorful and useful for their living spaces, but I didn’t want cookie-cutter art from a big-box store,” he explains. This is how his DGM-Art studio was born. There’s another family tie in his work—his mother Marie does all the sewing for his creations.

Although Krůšková’s work, which includes custom commissions, has enlivened the bedrooms of children across the globe, he says that his art can brighten almost any room. “People want something unique to fit their personal spaces and reflect their tastes.

I love being an artistic conduit for that.”

View the artist’s portfolio at dgm-art. com and Etsy.com/People/dgmart.

Lipo-Light is the new nonsurgical state-of-the-art technology alternative to Liposuction. It is completely non-invasive, does not cause any discomfort, and no down time.

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March 2015

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kudos Erica Sawers Joins Sabita Holistic Center

SOUND Director’s Musical CD Honored

abita Holistic Center in Southport has announced that Erica Sawers, a registered dietitian, chiropractor and wellness consultant in private practice, is joining the team at the center. Sawers has studied nutrition, the body, fitness and health for more than 15 years.

“Health is a personal journey, and the road to wellness can often have a number of hills, valleys and some wrong turns,” she says. “To live the healthiest version of yourself requires a decision to commit Erica Sawers to that path.”

Sabita Holistic Center, established in 2002, is dedicated to providing a friendly private center and program that gives the individual choices on maintaining personal optimal health. The center’s holistic approach draws from naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, yoga, massage, nutritional counseling and meditation.

ennifer Zulli, founder and director of SOUND (Center for Arts & Mindfulness) has been nominated in the Best Vocal Album (solo) category in the 2015 ZoneMusicReport ZMR Awards for her album Goddess Rising. ZoneMusicReporter will host the ZMRMusic Awards Live in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the Joy Theater on May 9, 2015.

Recorded in 432hz, Zulli’s work includes healing sacred solfeggio tones and sacred texts which are infused into the high vibrational musical release. Goddess Rising is New Age Artist, Composer and Sound Healer Jennifer Zulli’s third release in this genre.

Zulli will be sharing her love of music and song with the community through the new SOUND of Light Choir. The choir will meet in the historic SOUND Hawleyville chapel building beginning on Monday, April 27 at 7:45pm. Adults aged 18 and over will sing pieces about love, light, the seasons, and the earth, while training and developing voices with vocal warm-ups and exercises.

S

For more information, visit SabitaHolisticCenter.com or call 203-254-2633. Location: 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

J

For more information, to buy a CD or learn about SOUND’s full schedule of spring programming, visit SoundCenterArts. com or call 203-270-1119. Location: 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown.

BREAKTHROUGH TO YOU • Are you ready to open up to you?

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Fairfield County Edition

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Juliette Storch www.juliettestorch.com

Total Life Care Center Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrated health care practitioners.

TLC Center is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health center—with more than 90 independent members —and was founded by Beth Prins Leas in 1997 on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering.

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

Beth has created a vibrant holistic health and resource center and growing community of people who are committed to living consciously and to offering healthy lifestyle options in the form of private sessions, classes, workshops and special events.

Please visit our website and sign up for our newsletter to learn more about how TLC Center can support you on your journey to living well.

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Amplify slow brain waves, talk to certified float staff, reduce stress, pain, & more.

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March 2015

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communityspotlight

Institute for Holistic Health Studies at WCSU Empowering the Next Generation

by Natasha Michaels

R

obyn Housemann has been director of the Institute for Holistic Health Studies at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury since 2006. The past nine years have seen tremendous growth and interest in what the institute has to offer WCSU undergraduates and the community, including programs supporting the visit from the Dalai Lama in 2012, an annual health fair (to be held April 2 this year) and regularly scheduled

Wellness Wednesday lunch and learn programs. All of this has, in turn, fueled the creation of a new Holistic Health option within the Bachelor of Science Health Promotion Studies degreed program. The new specialization option for the existing degree program will launch in the fall of this year.

“It has taken awhile for things to happen,” Housemann reflects, “but now things are snowballing and it’s really just amazing.”

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

Housemann’s journey from her early career in engineering to directing a progressive holistic health education program stems directly from her own experience with illness, health, and the realization that the conventional healthcare system is not meeting the needs of most people. “It all started with my own healing process,” she explains. “My journey to holistic healing – as a practitioner and educator – began and is grounded in my own experience. None of this is theoretical to me; it is real.”

Housemann and the other instructors working within the holistic health section – including several graduates from another progressive institute in our area, The Graduate Institute – ground their teaching in their own experience and emphasize the experiential nature of the program. Many of the first students may have come to the introductory class out of curiosity or to fill an empty space in their schedules, but word has spread throughout the student population; Housemann is now seeing a higher number of incoming freshman and students earlier in their studies. She sees this as an encouraging sign of the program’s growing profile. “Many of our students come to WCSU for other majors then transfer into our program.

These kids are flocking to the experiential courses,” she says. “It’s a whole different way of thinking for them and they are just loving it.”

Since the new Health Promotion Studies program was launched in 2008, more than 200 students have graduated and have successfully entered the workforce or moved on to graduate study, which Housemann is excited about.

“We’re creating a growing network for

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students and demonstrating the value of the approach,” she explains. She cites recent graduates who have gone on to study naturopathic medicine at the University of Bridgeport or are studying to become chiropractic physicians, physical therapists, and registered nurses as examples of where students might take their undergraduate learning.

“They come out with a portfolio that shows not only what they’ve learned, but also that they can work with others to create and execute a project,” she says. In addition to their coursework, all students must complete 450 hours of an internship, developing skills and experience which make them more valuable in the job market after graduation.

The institute’s Wellness Wednesday programs—which begin again this spring—are free and open to students, staff and members of the community.

The program provides local practitioners and experts with an opportunity to present on their area of expertise.

The lunch and learn programs are held on campus from 12:30 to 1:30pm and in the past have included such topics as Reiki, meditation, drumming, stress management, and yoga off the mat.

In addition, the institute sponsors community events and meetings which support the overall mission of the institute. An example is a new Buddhist Meditation program series being offered at WCSU under the auspices of the institute. “It’s all about making this information more accessible to more people,” Housemann says. “We want to keep the ball rolling and keep elevating the discussion around these topics. My goal would be to have many more incoming freshman enrolling directly into our program because they’re excited about holistic health and the opportunities it creates.”

Natasha Michaels is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings Fairfield County.

For more information about WCSU’s Institute for Holistic Studies, the upcoming health fair or Wellness Wednesdays, visit WCSU.edu/IHHS or call Dr. Robyn Housemann at 203-837-8882 or email Housemann@WCSU.edu.

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Fairfield County Edition

ongressman Mike Pompeo (R), of Kansas, has introduced bill HR 4432, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2014 (Tinyurl.com/LabelGMOBill), which would ban states from passing genetically engineered food labeling laws and undo those already passed, making voluntary labeling the law of the land.

The bill also allows companies to label products containing GMOs as “natural”. Healthy food advocates have dubbed it the “Denying Americans the Right to Know (DARK) Act.”

The bill bans any mention of organic natural foods as being safer or better than their GMO counterparts and sets a strong burden of proof on organic small farms that wish to grow and market their products as GMO-free.

If we don’t want to be kept in the dark about what we’re eating, Congress needs to protect our right to know if food contains genetically modified organisms (GMO). While grassroots efforts to require labeling of GMO are gaining momentum, Big Agriculture and biotech companies like Monsanto are trying to block our right to know what’s in our food. The issue is critical and time-sensitive, so action needs to be taken now to contact Congress.

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Find specific legislators by calling the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 or visiting House.gov. Sign petitions at Tinyurl.com/SignStopDarkAct.

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healthbriefs

Fiber Boosts Effectiveness of Colonic Irrigation

L

ike most wellness modalities, colonic irrigation yields the best results when it’s accompanied by a healthy diet, says Tovah F. Nahman, founder of Lifeline Hygienics Colonics and Rejuvenation Center. “We always tell our clients that proper nutrition goes hand in hand with the colonic irrigation services that we provide,” she says. “No matter what modalities you use to keep yourself healthy, a good diet is the basis and foundation for good health.”

For instance, she notes that not eating enough fiber in the form of fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains can result in struggling to move the bowels, or constipation. “On the other hand,” she says, “when we eat plenty of fresh produce over the course of the day, our bowels are likely to move more freely.”

Nahman says a good rule of thumb is to try to eat five servings of produce a day. “I know it sounds like a lot, but it’s actually easy to do,” she says. She suggests eating two servings of fruit as snacks and then incorporating three servings of vegetables into daily meals. “Vegetables go great in or with eggs for breakfast,” she says. “Then have a large salad as a meal for lunch and another serving of veggies at dinner. When you get the right amount of fiber each day, you’ll notice how much better you feel.”

Tovah F. Nahman is a certified colonic hygienist and nutritional counselor. She practices at Lifeline Hygienics, located at 150 Theodore Friend Ave, Ste B15, Rye, NY. For more info, visit LifelineHygienics.com or call 914-921-LIFE (5433).

Even Modest Drinking Raises Risk of Heart Disease

C

ontrary to the hypothesis that moderate drinking can be hearthealthy, a new study published in the British Medical Journal indicates that even light to moderate drinking increases the risk of heart disease.

In a large, randomized meta-study, researchers examined patient data from 261,991 European adults derived from 56 studies. Participants were classified as non-drinkers, light drinkers, moderate drinkers or heavy drinkers. The researchers also used a gene variation to determine alcohol intake—a genetic marker that indicates low alcohol consumption of less than 10 milliliters (about a third of an ounce) per week.

They found that those with the gene variation—and thus are virtually non-drinkers—had a significantly lower risk of heart disease, including stroke and hypertension, and that even light drinking significantly increased heart disease risk. The researchers concluded: “These findings suggest that reductions of alcohol consumption, even for light to moderate drinkers, may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.”

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BUGS Linked to Factory Farm Antibiotics

T

he bacteria E. coli now causes 75 to 95 percent of all urinary tract infections, and research from Iowa State University has confirmed that such occurrences are linked to factory farms that use antibiotics. The findings support a study previously completed by scientists from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and George Washington University that shows a strain of antibiotic-resistant E. coli called ExPEC, an extra-intestinal pathogen, was genetically traceable to factory-farmed animals receiving certain antibiotics.

The National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System reports that 75 percent of chicken and turkey, 59 percent of ground beef and 40 percent of pork meats tested were contaminated with E. coli, and that the strains were predominantly multi-drug resistant. eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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ecotip Stop Drops

How to Find and Fix Leaking Pipes While municipal water main breaks make news, it’s just as important to be watchful at home. According to the Alliance for Water Efficiency, a typical home annually loses more than 2,000 gallons of water due to leakage.

SNL Financial, an industry analysis firm in Charlottesville, Virginia, recently reported that water leaks cause $9.1 billion in annual homeowner policy property losses. Sensing a less-than-stellar water flow or seeing a leak from a faucet or mold or damp spots on walls and ceilings can indicate possible water pipe problems.

Copper water lines can develop tiny leaks over time when the water supply is too acidic. Also, clogs can develop, regardless what lines are made of, from lime and rust accumulations, stressing sections and especially fittings. Particularly vulnerable are 45-to-65-year-old homes, the length of time corrosion-resistant coatings on interior and exterior pipes generally last (OldHouseWeb.com). Fortunately, if repairs are needed, most builders group water lines in predictable places; bathrooms are often stacked one atop another in multi-floor houses for easier placement of supply and drain lines, so work can be localized and focused.

Instead of costly copper, many plumbers have switched to PEX—a tough and flexible polyethylene—that doesn’t require fittings or react to acid, like copper does. Repairs typically consist of replacing specific pipe sections as needed.

Ask a visiting plumber to inspect all exposed plumbing lines to maximize the value of the service call.

Here’s a simple way to check for leaks: Turn off all water by closing internal and external water valves and don’t use the toilet. Record the current reading of the water meter, and then wait 20 minutes. Record the reading again and wait another 15 minutes. If the meter indicates an increase during this period, it’s probably from a leak. Another option is to install an automatic water leak detection and shutoff system.

According to AllianceForWaterEfficiency.org, 20 to 35 percent of all residential toilets leak at some time, often silently, sending wasted water onto both household water and sewer bills. Flapper valves improperly covering the exit from the tank are the most common problem, and they can easily be replaced.

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

Salty Harvest

Seaweed May Be the New Lettuce Food items such as kelp, dulse, alaria and laver may be unfamiliar now, but likely not for long, as these and other varieties of edible seaweed and sea vegetables appear on more shopping lists and restaurant menus.

These ingredients are already favored by cooks for the jolt of salty goodness they bring to soups and salads and by health food advocates that appreciate their high levels of essential minerals. Goodies in the pipeline include seaweed-filled bagels, ice cream and chips.

The trend toward farming seaweed instead of harvesting in the wild is making news. Working waterfronts often go dormant in the winter as lobstermen that work during warmer months move inland out of season for part-time jobs. Seaweed is a winter crop that can keep boats out on the water, providing year-round aquaculture employment.

Entrepreneur Matthew Moretti, who operates Bangs Island Mussels, a shellfish and kelp farm in Casco Bay, near Portland, Maine, explains, “Mussels are monoculture,” so he has been growing sugar kelp between mussel rafts to create a more ecological model.

A dog is a vehicle,

you know; a dog is a window to Mother Nature, and that’s the closest species we have. ~Cesar Millan

Source: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Center for a Livable Future

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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Wind Turbines a Kill Zone for European Bats

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Bats are vital natural pest controllers, saving the use of millions of pounds of pesticides by eating insects, but many species are declining across Europe, despite being protected, because wind turbines are seriously harming their populations. “It’s most common in migratory species, with around 300,000 bats affected every year in Europe alone.

Bats are found dead at the bottom of these turbines. One option is to reduce turbine activity during times of peak migration,” says Richard Holland. Ph.D., of Queen’s University Belfast, co-author of a study published in Nature Communications that sheds light on the problem.

Scientists have discovered the first known example of a mammal to use polarization patterns in the sky to navigate in the greater mouse-eared bat. The study demonstrates that the bats use the way sunlight is scattered in the atmosphere at sunset to calibrate the internal magnetic compass that helps them to fly in the right direction.

Holland says, “Bees have specially adapted photoreceptors in their eyes, and birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles all have cone cell structures in their eyes which may help them to detect polarization, but we don’t know which structure these bats might be using.

Anything we can do to understand how they get about, how they move and navigate will be a step forward in helping to protect them.”

Source: Natural Environment Research Council (NERC.ac.uk)

Feeding the World

Cultivating Youth

A recent publication from the United Nations Commission on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Trade and Environment Review 2013: Wake Up Before it is Too Late, includes contributions from more than 60 experts around the world. They are calling for transformative changes in food, agriculture and trade systems to increase diversity on farms, reduce use of fertilizer and other inputs, support small-scale farmers and create strong local food systems.

The report includes in-depth sections on the shift toward more sustainable, resilient agriculture; livestock production and climate change; the importance of research and extension; plus the roles of both land use and reform of global trade rules.

The report’s findings contrast starkly to the accelerated push for new free trade agreements, including the TransPacific Partnership (TPP) and the U.S./EU Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), which will strengthen the hold of multinational corporate and financial firms on the global economy. Neither global climate talks nor other global food security forums reflect the urgency expressed in the UNCTAD report to transform agriculture.

With an aging population of farmers, it’s clear that agriculture needs to attract more young people, because half the farmers in the U.S. are 55 or older. But for much of the world’s youth, agriculture isn’t seen as being cool or attractive—only as backbreaking labor without an economic payoff and with little room for career advancement. However, with some effort, young farmers can explore contemporary career options in permaculture design, biodynamic farming, communication technologies, forecasting, marketing, logistics, quality assurance, urban agriculture projects, food preparation, environmental sciences and advanced technologies.

“Increased access to education and new forms of agriculture-based enterprises means that young people can be a vital force for innovation in family farming, increasing incomes and well-being for both farmers and local communities,” says Mark Holderness, executive secretary of the Global Forum for Agricultural Research.

The New Entry Sustainable Farming Project (nesfp.org), in Massachusetts, trains young farmers in how to run a small farm operation, from business planning to specialized advanced workshops in livestock and healthy food. Likewise, the Southeastern New England Young Farmer Network (YoungFarmerNetwork.org) hosts free social and educational events that bring together farmers of all ages and experience levels to network and collaborate.

Source: Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP.org)

Source: FoodTank.com

UN Lauds Small-Scale, Sustainable Agriculture

Farming Seeks to Recruit a New Generation

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communityspotlight

Creating Spiritual Conversation Buddhist Meditation Groups Forming

by Nicole Miale

Lama Urgyan Zangpo

M

editation fundamentally means to remedy and heal; it is a vital component of any holistic health methodology designed to support an individual’s multifaceted capacity to transition across spiritual, mental, physical and social growth levels. Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama in the Vajrayana tradition, has dedicated decades of study and practice to his own spiritual work. In 2015, he began offering several holistic meditation programs that meet on a weekly basis to support local residents’ interest in applying traditional insights to their own experience. The programs

take a comprehensive view of meditation and support this with what is called “spiritual conversation.” It is a dialogue based in our mutual capacity to recognize what is true. Cultivating this spiritual intelligence is the point of the conversation, which is as much energetic as conceptual. While the supportive context of group meditation and conversation is a great place to relax and renew, it is also meant to actualize our spiritual values.

“Buddha means wholeness,” says Lama Zangpo, who prefers the more informal address of Urgyan. “A Buddha is a whole human being. Wholeness

comes from recognizing our own most spiritual truth, and then finding this commonality within each other and celebrating it in relationships enriched by mutual well-being and growth. It’s challenging in our culture, in which self-identity is over-emphasized, and separation and fragmentation are the norm. Ultimately what we’re seeking is full integration of our individuality within the whole, which is a paradox.”

A self-described “eager student of human behavior,” Urgyan’s own decades-long spiritual search took him across the country for extended periods in California and Oregon. More recent-

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ly it led him up into Canada’s Yukon Territory for a four-year retreat, where he lived primarily in seclusion. “The exploration was inward and it was the best and most transformative experience of my life,” he says. Newly settled in the Danbury area, he is putting down roots and looking forward to nurturing like-minded individuals in northern Fairfield County. He began teaching three new “Meditating Holistically” groups in January, taking place in Danbury, Bethel and New Preston (see end of article for details), including one group sponsored by the Western Connecticut State University’s (WCSU) Institute for Holistic Health Studies. He views his teaching as a way to pay it forward: “I had the good fortune of teachers in my past and as a result was able to pull myself up by my spiritual bootstraps throughout life,” he explains. “As I now teach, I see it as sharing in the learning process. I am really drawn to people who know they are suffering limitations and want to heal and grow. Aiding them in that transformation is the best way I can be of service.”

Urgyan is committed to establishing meditation groups that are non-judgmental and safe environments where each individual may apply traditional Buddhist insights to his or her holistic integration. “We must eliminate the judgment and comparison so common in our culture. Self and mutual respect are essential elements of spiritual development,” he says. “There is no one place to begin; we’re always midstream in the spiritual inquiry. There are many paths up the mountain and a lot of room to see where everyone is at and encourage them their own journey.”

In addition to the group meditation work, Urgyan also offers private Buddhist counsel and guidance, bringing 40 years of study and practice, and 16 years of counseling and teaching as an ordained Buddhist lama to his clients’ challenges and opportunities. “If you can gather the resources to support your integration journey, the awakening of spirituality can be a profound and beautiful experience,” he says.

Nicole Miale is executive editor and publisher of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Connect with her at NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com or 203-885-4674.

For more information, visit Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation at Meetup.com or email Urgyan Zangpo at UrgyanZangpo@gmail.com.

Meditating Holistically: Area Program Details • At ah Yoga in New Preston on Tuesdays from 6:30-8pm. $15.

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• At WCSU in Danbury on Wednesdays from 7-8:30pm through April 29. $15, students by donation. Location: WCSU, Danbury Midtown Campus, Warner Hall, Rm 103S. • At YogaSpace in Bethel on Thursdays from 7:30-9pm. Studio rates. Location: 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA.

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natural awakenings

by Dennis Merritt Jones

n unattended mind is like a neglected garden. Potting soil is incredibly receptive to any seeds introduced to it. It has absolutely no discretion when it comes to playing host to seeds; it says, “Yes” to all of them.

So it is with our mind, which is amazingly receptive to whatever suggestions are dropped into it. It has been said that the subconscious mind cannot take a joke. Whatever is introduced to it, it takes as serious instruction to grow that thoughtseed into a full-blown plant, be it a flower or a weed.

When we pause to consider how many thought-seeds are blown, dropped or purposely planted in our mind on a daily basis, it may prompt us to tend to our mental garden with more regularity. These may come from media, negative conversation or overheard comments. The subconscious mind hears it all and takes it personally. The only way to avoid this type of mind pollution is to be consciously focused on what we want to have planted and growing in our flower box called life. It’s a 24/7 proposition to keep it weeded as thousands of mental seeds constantly pour in.

A good full-time gardener plants thought-seeds about their self and others that are rooted in reverence and lovingkindness and skillfully nurtures them. Others will then receive nothing but benefit from the seeds we drop along the way.

Dennis Merritt Jones, D.D., is the author of Your Re-Defining Moments, The Art of Uncertainty and The Art of Being, the source of this essay. He has contributed to the human potential movement and field of spirituality as a minister, teacher, coach and lecturer for 30 years. Learn more at DennisMerrittJones.com.

Andrea and Cheech, their final portrait together

by Andrea M. Ouellette

Animals as Sacred Companions, Guides and Teachers

by Deana Paqua

P

ets have been sacred human companions for thousands of years and animals have long been revered as guides and helpers to medicine men and shamans. It may not seem obvious, but research is showing that paying closer attention to your pets and animals can give you more joy in life, improve your health and provide insights about how to feel happier and healthier on a daily basis.

In certain ancient cultures, humans did not have separate names for animals; they were just known as “other people.” Animals deserve honor and respect; they bring so much to our lives and typically ask for so little in return. Who else shows you such unconditional love every day no matter what you have done or what you have accomplished?

Animals do not judge your report cards, raises or athletic prowess (except maybe when it comes to throwing a ball or Frisbee), or whether anyone else likes you or finds you interesting. They are loyal, caring guardians, companions, cheerleaders and, at times, entertainers when your spirits are low.

They teach you how to love and celebrate the little joys in life – like chasing a ball through the yard or a stuffed toy across the kitchen floor – with complete focus, joy and attention.

Animals are great teachers of mindfulness. When are they not in the present moment? From the minute they wake

up in the morning, the day is a clean slate. For dog owners, there are joyful tail thwacks, barks and howls to warn that neighbors are walking down the street. They enjoy runs through the yard or forest, ball or toy squeaking, and greeting their owners at the door with complete adoration, no matter what kind of day their person had.

For cat owners, there are long, languorous stretches, paw grooming, and chasing of toys through the house. There is hunting for special “gifts” of unfortunate small critters in the yard, to give Mommy or Daddy as a way to say “thank you” in their own way.

Animals have something to teach. Study their unique characteristics, behaviors and personalities. Dogs often remind us to be joyful and loyal, cats to be independent and take time some for ourselves, horses to enjoy our freedom, and birds to sing our own songs without caring who hears it. Taking time to enjoy play with your pets is important for their well-being as well as your own. Research shows that pet owners often have less stress and tension, sleep better and have better fitness levels.

Honoring the unique needs of your particular pet helps to make the relationship balanced and reciprocal. From searching out their favorite toys and treats, to giving them a healthy diet and adequate exercise, pets deserve the same care as people.

Various tribes and cultures revere animals as spirit guides and totems, representing qualities and values of the particular tribe. In modern culture, an increasing number of animal lovers and spiritual seekers are interested in finding out their own animal totem or “spirit animal,” who is like a guardian angel in animal form. Individuals can seek out a course or a practitioner who offers instruction in shamanic journeying, which is a spiritual meditation technique to connect with your guardian angels, power animals, ancestors and spirit guides for guidance, support, wisdom and healing.

Connecting with one’s personal power animal can be a very uplifting and empowering experience, especially if the person seeks to understand their power animal’s strengths, gifts and abilities, and honors the relationship with gratitude, honor and respect. With their strong connection to nature, power animals can support your own sacred relationship with the earth and show us ways to live more spiritual, balanced, healthy, sustainable lives.

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT, is a shamanic healer, Reiki master and spiritual teacher offering private sessions and classes in the Ridgefield and Danbury areas. Her website is EmbodyTheSacred.net. See ad, page 24.

Andrea M. Ouellette, freelance photographer, specializing in photographs of people; documentary, and conceptual photo shoots. If you are a “fur parent” to a sick animal please contact Andrea and she would be honored to travel to you, to make one last final portrait of your loving “fur baby” before they pass on to the rainbow bridge. Andrea is based in Carmel, NY in neighboring Putnam County. Connect with her at A M Ouellette Photography by phone 478-390-0555, email AMOuellette1300@gmail.com or AMOuellettePhotography.org. eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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Location: Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. Please RSVP to 203-969-4327. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. *Please wear white socks.

32

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

infusion into the pet’s testicles causes them to atrophy. It’s less invasive, with a lower chance of infection and less pain, and reduces testosterone.

For feral cat populations where traps haven’t worked, megestrol acetate, derived from progesterone, added to food acts as birth control to slow or stop colony growth.”

Treatment of laboratory animals has also improved. “There have been three significant changes since 1984,” says Cathy Liss, president of the nonprofit Animal Welfare Institute, in Washington, D.C., founded in 1951 (awionline.org).

“General housing conditions are better, the number of government-owned chimpanzees has decreased and laboratories no longer obtain dogs and cats from random sources, so no stolen pets end up in labs.”

MISSION: ANIMAL RESCUE Big and Small, They Need Our Help

by Sandra Murphy

E

very creature in the animal kingdom has an essential purpose, yet through human interference, animal life overall has become so imbalanced as to signal a tipping point for Earth. Extreme care for the rapidly growing population of a relative handful of pet breeds stands in stark contrast to trending extinction of dozens of other species. Fortunately, in addition to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, conservationists and supportive lawmakers, every one of us can make a real difference.

Home Pet Rescues

Zack Skow started by volunteering with a nearby dog rescue organization.

He became director, and then in 2009 founded his own nonprofit, Marley’s Mutts (MarleysMutts.org), in Tehachapi, California, pulling many kinds of dogs out of Los Angeles shelters. “A lot of rescues are breed-specific; I think mutts deserve an equal chance,” says Skow, now the executive director.

“Small dogs get adopted faster, so we

get the larger mixes, including pit bulls and Rottweilers.”

Currently, the facility continues to expand its services, working with pet foster homes; providing medical care for severely abused animals in need of rehabilitation and socialization; and managing visits to prisons, mental health facilities and schools. “We take in who we can help. To see a dog triumph over tremendous odds gives people hope,” says Skow. Recently, volunteers pulled 70 dogs from Los Angeles shelters, fostered them for a month and then transported them east to adoption facilities where conditions were less crowded.

Spay/neuter is the best solution to pet overpopulation, says Ruth Steinberger, national founder of Spay First, headquartered in Oklahoma City (SpayFirst.org). From 20 years of experience, she explains that in locations and situations in which surgery is impractical, “We’ve had great results using calcium chloride in ethyl alcohol, done under sedation. A slow

She reports that animals now are subject to only one experiment, retired for adoption instead of being euthanized, and furnished with natural living conditions on-site—vertical space, an enriched environment with mental and physical stimulation, interaction with other animals and appropriate food and bedding. “Most lab animals are rats and mice,” says Liss. “Any animal has the capacity to suffer. It’s up to us to treat them humanely.”

Farm Animal Stewardship

“Animals become ambassadors,” says Gene Baur, president and co-founder of Farm Sanctuary’s three locations in New York’s Finger Lakes region, Los Angeles and northern California (FarmSanctuary.org) and author of Farm Sanctuary: Changing Hearts and Minds About Animals and Food. “People are distanced from food sources.

Once you learn that sheep love to be petted and pigs like belly rubs, you know an animal as an individual. The best way to help is to share information, farm animal videos and plantbased recipes, so people can see that going meatless is about far more than just eating produce.”

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Musician Sir Paul McCartney, author of The Meat Free Monday Cookbook, took the message to schools in 2012. Now students around the world participate in meat-free lunch programs. The adult initiative of going meatless for one or more days extends to 35 countries on six continents.

Pigs, cows, horses, peacocks and an alpaca live in harmony at local nonprofit Cracker Box Palace Farm Animal Haven, in Alton, New York (CrackerBox Palace.org), which spurs recovery from illness, neglect or abuse. “People get animals without doing research on their care or habits. That’s how we got the peacocks—they have a bloodcurdling scream,” says Farm Manager Cheri Roloson, who rents out their goats as nature’s landscapers to clear brush.

Mistreated animals also provide therapy for returning military veterans and abused children at Ranch Hand Rescue, in Argyle, Texas (RanchHand Rescue.org). Kids find it easier to talk about their experiences with an animal that has also endured cruel treatment, like Spirit, a horse that received precedent-setting surgery to repair a leg that had improperly healed after being broken by a baseball bat.

Conscious chicken farms, too, are making an impact. “Chickens can be well-treated and have a healthy, decent life,” says Jason Urena, marketing manager with NestFresh, which operates 20 small farms and five processing plants, concentrated in Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and Texas to reduce its carbon footprint (NestFresh.com).

Starting with cage-free hens, the Denver company grew based on nationwide customer requests for certified cage-free, free-range, organic, pastureraised and nonGMO (genetically modified) eggs.

“We’re the first in the country to offer certified non-GMO eggs,” attests Urena.

He explains that in the process for certification, feed is inspected at every step, from planting 34

Fairfield County Edition

“Pets are considered property, and until that changes, it’s harder to make a difference. Farm animals have no rights at all. Animals are sentient beings with rights commensurate with the ability to feel pain and even be valued members of the family. They deserve far more than a property classification.” ~Diane Sullivan, assistant dean and professor, Massachusetts School of Law seed (usually corn or soy) to storage in silos and mill grinding, to allow traceability for potential problems and avoid crosscontamination.

Wildlife Habitat Preservation There are few places on Earth that humans haven’t impacted fragile ecosystems. Loss of habitat and lack of food sources are critical issues. Bats are a bellwether for the impact on wildlife from human-induced diseases. The Wildlife Conservation Society studies the loons in New York’s Adirondack Mountains to monitor their exposure to disease and pollution.

The mission of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is to use conservation and education to protect present and future wildlife.

Of the 410-plus species of mammals in the United States, 80 are on the endangered species list, reminiscent of the bison that used to

natural awakenings

number in the millions, but now mostly exist in small bands on private and public lands.

NWF aims to build on the bison restoration efforts achieved to date (now numbering tens of thousands) by reintroducing them onto more public lands, reservations and protected habitats, and likewise build up populations of other wild threatened and endangered animals. Its programs feature green corridors to give native species a home and migrating species a rest stop.

“The important message is not how many species have gone off the list, but how many didn’t go extinct,” says David Mizejewski, a celebrity naturalist for NWF. “It’s important to understand species require different ecosystems. When we quit draining swamps and rerouting rivers and leave them alone in a proper habitat, alligators will come back. Eagles have fewer young, so it’s not easy for them to recover.”

The success in restoring populations of the bald eagle, our national symbol, during the second half of the

What You Can Do 4 Volunteer to walk a dog, foster a cat, make phone calls or help with shelter paperwork.

4 Spay/neuter pets and consider adopting before shopping at a pet store.

4 Donate to support rehabilitation of an abused animal.

4 Pick up litter, especially harmful in and near waterways.

4 Be a conscious consumer and don’t let factory farm prices influence decisions.

4 Tell companies what is accept able or not via purchases, emails and phone calls.

4 Lobby politicians to support worthy animal causes.

last century was significant. Measures that included banning the poisonous DDT pesticide that contaminated their food and affected reproduction, improving native habitats and prohibiting hunting of the bird allowed its removal from the endangered list in 2007. They are still protected by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Another raptor, the peregrine falcon, has adapted to urban living in order to survive. Nests adorn tops of buildings and pigeons are a plentiful food supply.

Bears, mountain lions and wolves have been dwindling, hunted as dangerous, a nuisance or for sport. With fewer of these natural predators, whitetailed deer can overpopulate their habitat and starve. Deer and other displaced animals may migrate into suburban areas in search of food, prompting hurtful human reactions to reduce their numbers.

The American Bear Association provides safe, seasonal habitats for black bears (AmericanBear.org).

The 1966 Animal Welfare Act improved the lives of many commercial animals, but more laws are needed.

See SustainableTable.org/ 274/animal-welfare.

Located near Orr, Minnesota, the 360acre sanctuary also hosts white-tailed deer, bald eagles, beavers, mink, pine martens, fishers, timber wolves, red squirrels, bobcats, blue jays, owls, ducks, songbirds and ravens.

Among movements to protect smaller endangered and threatened animals, the American Tortoise Rescue lobbies for legislation to ban the importation of nonnative species (Tortoise.com).

“Turtles and bullfrogs are imported as pets or as food, and many end up in

Did You Know… n San Francisco’s SPCA is one of many organizations that offer free or low-cost spay/neuter for specific breeds most frequently seen in shelters, like pit bulls, and special programs offer free surgeries. Find locations at Tinyurl.com/SpayNeuterServices. n One female dog can produce litters of up to 10 pups twice a year; cats can have three litters a year of up to five kittens each. n An estimated 2.7 million healthy shelter pets remain unadopted each year, yet only about 30 percent of pets in homes come from shelters or rescues, according to The Humane Society of the United States. n Factory farms account for 99 percent of farm animals, yet less than 1 percent of donated money directly assists them, reports Animal Charity Evaluators, in San Diego. The highly rated Mercy for Animals, dedicated to prevention of cruelty to farmed animals, reports, “Despite the fact that these are the most abused animals in the United States, they actually have the fewest number of advocates.” n Sandra, a 29-year-old Sumatran orangutan at the Buenos Aires Zoo, was recognized as a “non-human person” unlawfully deprived of her freedom by Argentine courts. “This opens the way not only for other great apes, but also for other sentient beings that are unfairly and arbitrarily deprived of their liberty,” says Paul Buompadre, an attorney with the Association of Officials and Lawyers for Animal Rights. “The question is not ‘Can they reason?’ or ‘Can they talk?’ but ‘Can they suffer?’” says Barry MacKay, director of the Animal Alliance of Canada.

“That to me is the ultimate question.”

streams or lakes, where they kill native species,” says co-founder Susan M. Tellem, in Malibu, California. “They can carry salmonella, parasites and tuberculosis,” she explains. Unfortunately, a California law passed to limit importation was revoked within weeks due to claims of cultural bias by politicians lobbying for Asian food markets that sell live turtles and bullfrogs.

As the only Association of Zoos and Aquariums-certified wolf facility in the world, The Endangered Wolf Center, in Eureka, Missouri, has been breeding and reintroducing wolves into the wild for 40 years (EndangeredWolfCenter. org). Founded by zoologist and television host Marlin Perkins and his wife, Carol, they helped increase both the Mexican gray wolf population from nine to 235 in managed care, plus at least 75 in the wild, and the red wolf population from 14 to 160 in managed care, with more than 100 in the wild.

Every pack of Mexican gray wolves roaming the Southwest and 70 percent of North Carolina red wolves can be traced back to the center.

Wildlife protection laws vary by state. Key conservation successes typically begin with local and regional initiatives promoted by farsighted individuals that care enough to get the ball rolling and back it up with supportive legislation.

Christian Samper, Ph.D., CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Society, observes, “Zoos and aquariums help the public better understand the natural systems that make all life possible. The hope is that what people understand, they will appreciate and what they appreciate, they will work to protect.”

One person’s care can make a difference. For an animal, it can mean life itself.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouis FreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

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ach year, more dogs, cats and other pets end up in shelters as lost, stray or owner-surrendered than leave them for a new home. What can be done to reverse this trend?

How to Help

Immediate steps: Have a vet implant a tiny RFID (radio frequency identification) microchip. It’s safe, affordable and helps reunite the owner with a lost pet. Spay/ neuter pets to avoid unwanted litters.

Spread the word: Only about 30 percent of household pets come from shelters or rescues, according to the ASPCA. To help, suggest that shelters post photos in the lobby, supported by a note about each animal’s good points and special needs to entice potential adopters. Also share YouTube videos that celebrate adoption and advocate controlling the pet population (see Tinyurl. com/SpayNeuterStreetMusic1 and Tinyurl.com/SpayNeuterStreetMusic2).

Volunteer: The Motley Zoo, in Redmond, Washington, provides medical care and behavioral training for ill, injured, neglected, abused and unwanted animals mainly from overflowing shelters.

About half of its 150 volunteers foster pets; others plan educational events or 36

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handle administrative tasks. “Each person has a specialty,” says Jamie Thomas, executive director. “We match fosters and animals to get the best results.”

No kill shelters are becoming more common, even though they require uncommon commitment. As part of implementing effective procedures and infrastructure, shelter leadership works to secure the support and involvement of the community. By joining together to implement lifesaving programs and treat each life as precious, a shelter can transform a community. Find a no kill shelter primer at Tinyurl.com/NoKillReform.

In Faraway Lands

Illegal wildlife trading and loss of habitat are huge and escalating problems wild animals face every day. Small repopulation success stories exist, but progress is slow. Here are some of the most urgent and dramatic perils topping the lengthy endangered species list.

Elephants are hunted for their ivory tusks. “China is the largest consumer of ivory, but the United States is second,” says Jeff Flocken, J.D., North American regional director with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), headquartered in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts (ifaw.org).

“Every year, 35,000 elephants are killed; an average of one every 15 minutes.”

Northern white rhinos once freely roamed East and Central Africa south of the Sahara. Until 1960, there were more than 2,000; today, only five exist—one in the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park, one in a Czech Republic zoo and three at a wildlife conservancy in Kenya.

Imported as pets or show attractions, “There are between 10,000 and 20,000 big cats in private hands in America at facilities/businesses not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums,” says Carson Barylak, with IFAW’s Washington, D.C., office. “There are more tigers in private possession in the U.S. than in the wild.”

Pangolins eat ants and termites. Hunted for meat and their scales (used in Asian medicines), they are one of the world’s most endangered mammals (see Tinyurl.com/ SavePangolins).

Thirty years ago, the world population of lowland gorillas numbered 240. Thanks to the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the population has grown to an estimated 880 (GorillaDoctors.org is supported by SaveAGorilla.org). Led by Ruth Keesling, the project has shown the inestimable value of the species. “Once you’ve looked into the eyes of a gorilla, you’re forever changed,” says her son Frank, in Denver, Colorado.

How to Help

Make saving animals a priority. Contact legislators. Be a lawabiding consumer—don’t buy ivory or other endangered-animal products. Support conservancy groups. Share information. Donate time and money.

“IFAW is working to advance legislation to prohibit private ownership of big cats in the U.S. The bill received bipartisan support and we hope to see it become law,” says Barylak. “We’ve asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ban direct contact with big cats. It’s harmful to the animals and the people that handle them.”

Annual running events with participants donning gorilla costumes raise funds and awareness. Following the Austin, Texas, event in January, runs will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, on March 29 and in Denver, Colorado, on November 1. “Another way to help gorillas is to recycle cell phone and computer batteries. Coltan [tantalite] is used to make batteries—13 percent of the world’s supply of coltan is in the park area of the Congo,” says Frank Keesling.

Barriers to improving the lives of animals can be overcome and banished when we believe it’s possible and everyone helps. The animals are counting on us.

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

petresourceguide Connecting you to some leading resources active in pet rescue and care in our community.

ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC.

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

PET PROTECTORS

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

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL

45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • Roar-Ridgefield.org

BULLY BREED RESCUE

PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 • StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com • BullyBreedRescueInc.org

COMMUNITY CATS

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

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS)

147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel • 203-744-3297

FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC.

PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org

NFSAW

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

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS)

504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PawsCT.org

STRAYS AND OTHERS TAILS OF COURAGE

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

PASSAGE EAST BOARDING KENNELS 499 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-7998 Passage_East@sbcglobal.net PassageEastKennels.com

Passage East has been dedicated to caring for pets for more than 40 years and makes your dog feel like it never left home. Passage East is a full-service dog boarding kennel. We offer daycare services, overnight boarding and full-service grooming. See ad, page 57.

VETERINARY SERVICES

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

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

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

DOGGIE DAY CARE, TRAINING & BOARDING DOG GONE SMART

15 Cross St, Norwalk 203-838-7729 • DogGoneSmart.com Fairfield County’s TOP canine center! We have been serving pet lovers in our area for more than 20 years. Our staff of dog trainers and animal behavorists work together to make Dog Gone Smart a loving, safe, fun and happy home away from home for your dog. See ad, page 53.

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services only during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 55.

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“Creating this Sanctuary is reminiscent of the life that Catherine lived; it is to honor what she would have wanted.” ~ Jenny Hubbard

T

wo years ago on December 14, 2012, 6-year-old Catherine Violet Hubbard was one of the 26 people killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School. This community has been dealing with significant trauma ever since that day. Horrific events such as what occurred can spark transformation

natural awakenings

in those left to pick up the pieces. For the Hubbard family, there has been a positive shift in moral and spiritual focus. “Catherine was a very quiet soul… she had a special connection with all animals,” her father, Matt Hubbard, remembers. The focus of Newtown’s Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal

Sanctuary – established in her memory – will reflect her compassion for animals by providing adoptive services for companion animals, refuge for farm animals, and native wildlife rescue and release services.

When a tragedy such as this happens in a small community such as Newtown, it has significant energy that explodes locally, flows regionally, and expands to the global community.

The outpouring for the sanctuary has progressed to an international level.

The creation of the Catherine Violet Hubbard (CVH) Foundation Inc. as a 501(c)3 was started in 2013. The most significant contribution was in the fall of 2014 from the State of Connecticut, which donated 34 acres of land. The focus to this point has been on fundraising events and creating a volunteer network. Local and regional families, elementary, middle and high school students, veterinarians and several animal rescue organizations have sponsored fundraisers from lemonade and bakery sales, annual vet clinic parties, golf tournaments to the Waldron Family fundraiser in North Salem, New York.

All these efforts were driven by like-minded thinkers focused on Catherine’s vision of compassion, acceptance and determination. The mission of this Sanctuary is once again based on Catherine’s values:

COMPASSION: Treasure all living

things with the belief that all creatures, great and small, deserve to live free from harm in their natural environment.

ACCEPTANCE: Believe in the innate beauty and grace of animals, nature and people.

DETERMINATION: Operate with

the solitary goal of providing the optimal support and care for animals. Share experiences, resources and expertise with other organizations and individuals interested in building sanctuaries.

Since the donation of the land, the Catherine Violet Hubbard Sanctuary has the ability to incorporate agricultural education. One of the key components of the architectural plan’s phase

one will be the building a community garden. Agriculture will be a significant part of the foundation. Professionals will educate the community on how to seed, grow and harvest a garden, while chefs will share how to cook nutritionally with in-season foods grown in the Northeast. CVH will likely be a sustainable nonprofit as it has many fundamental resources. Giving children early opportunities to foster animals and grow plants is hoped to be a way to influence a shift in our culture and provide children healthier outlets. CVH focuses on the idea that community collaboration is critical as a way to survive and thrive.

CVH has had local and national help in its development. The Animal

Center in Newtown, a no-kill, nonprofit animal rescue organization, was the original “collaboration of love” based on Catherine Hubbard’s passions and hopes. Support coming from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the State of Connecticut and Governor Malloy, The Jane Goodall Institute, Best Friends, Cornell University, PH Architects, Tracy Locke Marketing Firm and all the volunteers has been prolific, inspiring significant hope and serenity for the family. The resources donated by all of these aforementioned contributors will allow the sanctuary to start building the main building, vet intake, community garden and culinary kitchen in 2016.

All permitting regulations are expected to be met and processed in 2015. The 2nd Annual Butterfly Fundraiser will be held on June 6, 2015 in downtown Newtown from noon to 4pm. For volunteer and sponsorship opportunities for this fundraiser, contact CVH at 203-313-8391. Other upcoming events will be posted on the website, which will be upgraded by the end of March.

Leslie McLean is district sales manager for Natural Awakenings Fairfield County and volunteer coordinator for the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary.

For more information or to make a donation, call 203-313-8391 or visit CVHFoundation.org or Facebook.com/ CatherineVioletHubbardAnimal Sanctuary. To volunteer, email the volunteer coordinator at LeslieMcLean@ optonline.net.

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Connecticut to the Rescue for Horses

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he majestic horse, strength and power personified, wins over the hearts of many – whether filling their iconic American role roaming free on the western plains or under saddle performing the precise and graceful “dance” of dressage. How can it be then that approximately 150,000 of these sentient beings will be sent to slaughter facilities across in Mexico and Canada this year alone? This number does not even address the foals being born and considered by-products of various industries, nor does it include the 50,000 American Mustangs in Bureau of Land Management holding facilities.

Under the umbrella of the American Horse Council, the Unwanted Horse Coalition (UnwantedHorseCoalition.org) was formed in 2005 to educate the private and professional sectors about responsible options available and to support programs that deal with overpopulation. Through the Unwanted Horse Coalition, private owners are given information to make responsible decisions for their equine friend including basic costs expected, re-homing options and equine retirement. To eliminate backyard breeding, which is a large contributor to the overpopulation, the organization has instituted Operation Gelding; they have gelded 939 stallions in the last four years. The organization also works with breed and racing associations to create options for horses once their careers are over. In the thoroughbred racing industry, approximately 20,000 foals are born annually with approximately 2,000 starting gates to fill. The Jockey Club of America has initiated the Retirement Checkoff Program, which allows breeders and

owners to donate toward aftercare at the time of foal registration. Breed associations ask for monitoring but much slips through the cracks and slaughterhouses don’t discriminate.

A University of California, Davis survey discovered that there are 326 501(c)3-registered rescues in the United States. Their maximum capacity is 13,400 horses. Foster homes and donations are invaluable to these nonprofit organizations. They have various ways to accept support, including an “adoption” where children or adults can visit their horse. Here are three local Connecticut rescues that could use support.

H.O.R.S.E. OF CT Washington 860-868-1960 • HORSEofCT.org In the 32 years that H.O.R.S.E. of CT has actively been helping unwanted, neglected or abused horses find their forever homes, 700 horses have gone through their gates. The farm runs at capacity with 35 horses cared for by their volunteer staff and President Patty Wahlers. The yearly cost to keep the rescue open is roughly $150,000.

H.O.R.S.E. of CT has been active in the rescue of approximately 35 Premarin foals. These foals are a by-product of the pharmaceutical industry in the production of the hormonal replacement drug Premarin, which is made from the urine of pregnant mares. A visit to their website will show some ways you can support their efforts. For the person who wants to take long walks with an equine friend, they have a horse for you. Never been near a horse but would love the experience? They are available to guide you in basic care.

EQUINE ANGELS RESCUE SANCTUARY (E.A.R.S.) New Milford • 203-733-3576 FoalRescue.com While researching and filming a piece on the Premarin industry twelve years ago, documentary filmmaker Frank Weller founded E.A.R.S. Four hundred adoptions later, Weller is still working for the foals with a network of volunteers and farms that support E.A.R.S. The network spans as far west as Arizona and includes the entire East Coast. His main focus is raising funds to rescue foals and broodmares from kill auctions, find adopters, and oversee the continued growth of each individual foal.

Finding foster homes is key. Weller’s current focus is working with farmers/ breeders in the nurse mare industry. The nurse mare is not unlike the wet nurse of the 19th century. When the broodmare that still competes needs to get back to work, the nurse mare is brought in. For the nurse mare to stay “in milk” she needs to have recently foaled herself. Her foal then becomes an orphan.

E.A.R.S. believes helping these farmers by giving them better options is a winwin for all. To see how you can help or discuss your farm as a possible foster home, please contact Weller.

CT DRAFT HORSE RESCUE Haddam Neck • CTDraftRescue.com Founded by Stacey Golub, DVM, in 2010, CT Draft Rescue’s goal is to rescue, rehab, retrain and rehome draft horses. Currently 12 drafts are under the doctor’s care with a support team of 40 volunteers. It costs roughly $6,000 per month for hay and other expenses.

Golub will receive two calls a week needing some type of assistance within the draft community. She also values foster homes to catch overflow in times of need. Golub’s group will be joining the Unwanted Horse Coalition’s Operation Gelding as they have for the past two years with a team from Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine. All stallions are welcome. Tours of the farm to walk among these gentle giants are available on weekends. CT Draft Rescue’s website will keep you up to date on giving and horses ready for adoption.

Even with these efforts, many horses will inhumanely be sent to slaughter.

Addressing the front end of this problem and instituting a breeder’s tax and license have been discussed. Addressing the hard decision of responsible euthanasia must be considered. At the very least, this is a humane act in the face of suffering. CT Draft Rescue’s opening quote reflects the heart and soul of every rescue and summarizes what keeps them going: “You can’t change the world by saving one horse, but for that one horse, its world is changed forever.”

Jennifer McDermott’s exploration of horse energy began while rehabilitating horses in Fairfield County over 12 years ago. With her equine Reiki practice and passion for preventative health, she has embraced the three-pronged approach of foundational rehabilitation: nutrition, bodywork and positive reinforcement teaching. She now lives in Guilford and devotes herself to the rehabilitation of the Off the Track Thoroughbred. See ad, page 29.

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The New Healthy Cuisine Good-to-Go Eats

by Judith Fertig

K

atie Newell, a blogging Kansas City mother of two who fights inflammation from several autoimmune diseases, is rigorous about the fresh, unprocessed food she buys. After noticing adverse symptoms from dining at a restaurant, Newell initially thought that eating out was no longer an option for her.

Today, she happily ventures out for the occasional restaurant meal, knowing that the healthy food landscape is changing. “I look to restaurants owned by local chefs that use local and sustainable ingredients and prepare everything from scratch,” she says.

From higher-end dining to fast-food joints, food trucks and vending machines, we now have even more choices for fresh, seasonal, organic, local, sustainable, tasty nutrition when we’re on the go. It’s because entrepreneurial chefs and fitness buffs are responding to customer demand for healthy eating options away from home.

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Range of Restaurants

London’s celebrated Chef Yotam Ottolenghi, founder of several restaurants and takeout emporia and author of bestselling cookbooks Plenty and Jerusalem, says that “healthy” can happen simply by putting the spotlight on plants. Ottolenghi’s cuisine is known for celebrating vegetables, fruits and herbs. He says, “That attitude, I think, is a very healthy attitude to eating.”

At Gracias Madre, a plant-based vegan Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles and San Francisco, high style doesn’t mean chandeliers and rich cream sauces.

The brainchild of Executive Chef Chandra Gilbert, also director of operations for the Bay Area’s vegan Café Gratitude, it serves organic, local and sustainable fruits and vegetables and bold flavor without excessive calories. She says, “I’m inspired by what I want to eat that tastes good and makes me feel good, and I want to affect this planet—to create health and vibrancy all the way around.”

True Food Kitchen, a partnership between Dr. Andrew Weil and restaurateur Sam Fox, offers “honest food that tastes really good” at Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix and Washington, D.C., locations. For lunch, diners might sip sea buckthorn, pomegranate, cranberry or black tea along with their quinoa burger or organic spaghetti squash casserole.

Newell and her family gravitate towards SPIN! Neapolitan Pizza, touting recipes developed by James Beard Award-winning Chefs Michael Smith and Debbie Gold, who partnered with entrepreneur Gail Lozoff to create the first healthy, high-style pizzeria in 2005. Today it offers traditional and gluten-free pizza topped with fresh and organic (whenever possible) ingredients at locations in Dallas, Omaha, the Kansas City metro area and Orange County, California.

Even at fast-food restaurants, healthy choices are increasingly available. “Unforked, Panera Bread and Chipotle do a great job being transparent about what’s in their food,” says Newell. Before venturing out, she often checks the company’s website for specific nutrition information.

Meals on Wheels–Food Trucks

A burgeoning fleet of creatively conceived food trucks takes healthy eating to local customers in U.S. cities. In addition to preparing organic, plant-based foods, The Green Food Truck, in Culver City and San Diego, California, recycles used vegetable oil, composts produce scraps and offers recyclable servingware. Josh Winnecour, founder of the Fuel Food Truck, in Asheville, North Carolina, cites losing 50 unwanted pounds as his incentive for serving nutrient-dense, madefrom-scratch food to his clientele.

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New Generation Vending

Most hospitals, universities, schools and corporations appear to espouse healthy eating—until the offerings in their vending machines reveal the opposite. Ethan Boyd, a student at Michigan State University, noted this disconnect. “While dining halls strive to serve healthy options,” he says, “there are 40 vending machines on MSU’s campus that spit out junk food.”

Sean Kelly, CEO of HUMAN Healthy Vending (Helping Unite Mankind and Nutrition), had a similar, “Oh, no,” moment at his New York City gym when he was a university student. Today, Kelly’s franchise model allows local operators to supply individual machines with better options from organic fresh fruit to hot soup. “Our vision is to make healthy food more convenient than junk food,” he says.

Entrepreneurs Ryan Wing and Aaron Prater, who also have culinary training, recently opened Sundry Market & Kitchen, in Kansas City, Missouri. In their update on a neighborhood market, they sell takeout foods like red lentil falafel and citrus beet soup. “I think people want to eat local food and better food, but they want it to be convenient,” observes Wing. “The bottom line is we want to make it simple to eat good food.”

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

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Local Sources for Healthy Ready-Made Food on the Go

by Leslie Beech

F

or busy Fairfield County residents who want to eat healthy, sometimes preparing food in advance is a challenge but eating out isn’t always an option either. Some savvy food purveyors in the area have provided some solutions at amazing health food venues. If you are looking for a ready-made meal to eat while on the go, or just want to pick up a freshly made entrée for dinner, there are many great places to choose from. In most cases, you will also be supporting a local business run by an owner who has a real passion for healthy, clean foods.

A brief reference guide below lists by town some Fairfield County spots which might provide nutritious fuel you need while on the go. All of them have offerings that range from made-to-order smoothies to prepared to-go dishes with locally sourced organic produce and meats. Nearly all on the list offer gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and raw options.

Even if you don’t have much time to cook and prepare your own, you are sure to find lots of healthy, good for your body and soul eats right here in your own backyard!

COS COB

DARIEN

GREEN + TONIC 7 Strickland Rd • 203-869-1376 GreenAndTonic.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm • Assortment of wraps, fresh salads, vegetable medleys • Organic juices and smoothies, oatmeal and granola • Locally sourced produce, raw organic foods • Vegan-based menu

DANBURY CHAMOMILLE NATURAL FOODS Rt.6 Plaza, 58 Newtown Rd 203-792-8952 Chamomille-Natural-Foods.com Hours: Mon-Wed 9:30am-6:30pm, Thurs 9:30am-7:30pm, Fri 9:30am-6:30pm Saturdays from 10am–5:30pm, Sun 10am-4pm • Daily soups of the day offered, salads, sandwiches, juices • Gluten-free, vegan, local products, vegetarian 44

Fairfield County Edition

GREEN + TONIC 1098 Post Rd • 203-656-1036 GreenAndTonic.com Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-5pm • Assortment of wraps, fresh salads, vegetable medleys • Organic juices and smoothies, oatmeal and granola • Locally sourced produce, raw organic foods • Vegan-based menu WHOLE FOODS MARKET 150 Ledge Rd • 203-662-0577 WholeFoodsMarket.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-10pm • Hot and cold food bars, sandwiches, wraps, daily soups • Wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan items available • Local, organic produce and meats available

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FAIRFIELD CATCH A HEALTHY HABIT

39 Unuquowa Rd • 203-292-8190 CatchaHealthyHabit.com Hours: Mon-Tues 8am-3pm, Wed-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm • Soups, salads, veggie burgers, vegetarian/vegan entrees made to order • Large variety of smoothies made with almond milk, fresh fruit and natural sweeteners • Fresh-squeezed, customized juices made to order • Variety of assorted natural homemade chips and snacks THE STAND JUICE COMPANY 87 Mill Plain Rd • 203-873-0414 TheStandJuiceCompany.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 8am-4pm • Local, sustainable, ethically sourced, animal product-free menu • Fresh salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts • Fresh juices and smoothies WHOLE FOODS MARKET 350 Grasmere Ave • 203-819-9544 WholeFoodsMarket.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-10pm • Hot and cold food bars, sandwiches, wraps, daily soups • Wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan items available • Local, organic produce and meats available MRS. GREEN’S 1916 Post Rd • 203-259-2192 MrsGreens.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-9pm • Prepared soups, salads and assorted vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free entrees available.

GREENWICH WHOLE FOODS MARKET 90 East Putnam Ave • 203-661-0631 WholeFoodsMarket.com Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-10pm • Hot and cold food bars, sandwiches, wraps, daily soups • Wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan items available • Local, organic produce and meats available

GREEN + TONIC 85 Railroad Ave • 203-622-1479 GreenAndTonic.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm • Assortment of wraps, fresh salads, vegetable medleys • Organic juices and smoothies • Oatmeal and granola • Locally sourced produce, raw organic foods • Vegan-based menu

NEW CANAAN

GREENWICH HEALTH MART 30 Greenwich Ave • 203-869-9658 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 8:30-5pm, Sun 11am-3pm • Variety of wraps made with sprouted tortillas • Hot specialty foods: quesadillas, veggie burgers, falafel • Vegan- and gluten-free friendly foods • Daily soup (non-dairy and no added fat) • Organic fruit smoothies and fresh squeezed juices • Organic baked goods, gluten-free muffins and whoopie pies

NEW MILFORD

GRASS RXOOTS 45 Grove St • 203-979-0061 GrassRxoots.com Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-6pm, Sat/Sun 7am-3pm • Organic food and juices made fresh that do not contain soy, corn, gluten, dairy, GMOs or peanuts

NATURAL MARKETPLACE 10 Bank St • 860-799-0721 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun closed • Juice and Smoothie bar • Full array of organic products, herbal supplements • Locally made products available

GREEN + TONIC 5 Burtis Ave • 203-920-1395 GreenAndTonic.com Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm • Assortment of wraps, fresh salads, vegetable medleys • Organic juices and smoothies • Oatmeal and granola • Locally sourced produce, raw organic foods • Vegan-based menu

NORTHVILLE MARKET 301 Litchfield Rd • 860-355-2667 NorthVilleMkt.com Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 8am-7pm • Large selection of fresh baked breads including Wave Hill Breads from Wilton • Homemade soups, salads and sandwiches available either made to order or prepared • Assorted entrees made to go such as meatloaf, crab cakes, pasta and quiches to name a few

MRS. GREEN’S 2 Pine St • 203-442-9091 MrsGreens.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-9pm • Prepared soups, salads and assorted vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free entrees available

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

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NORWALK THE STAND JUICE COMPANY 1 North Water St • 203-956-5670 TheStandJuiceCompany.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-8pm, Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 8am-6pm • Local, sustainable, ethically sourced vegan menu • Salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts • Fresh juices and smoothies NAKED GREENS 45 North Main St • 203-956-0550 Naked-Greens.com Hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-7:30pm, Fri-Sat 11am-6:30pm, Sun 11:30am-4pm • Large assortment of soups, salads, wraps • Raw veggie juice frappes, smoothies • Customizable salad and grilled cheese menu • Vegetarian and gluten-free items available

RIDGEFIELD NATURE’S TEMPTATIONS 32 Prospect St • 203-438-5443 NaturesTemptations.com Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am-7pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm • Make-your-own salad to order with fresh greens, homemade dressings and handmade croutons • Sandwich board with grass-fed beef burgers, homemade vegetarian, and made-to-order sandwiches. Rotisserie chicken and hot food menu items daily.

PURE BAR 426 Main St • 203-403-3705 Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-7pm • Smoothies blended with nut and soy milks • Fresh juices include a large selection of fruits and vegetables for immune boosting, energy, memory enhancing and cleansing • Other menu offerings include soup, hummus plate or wrap, carrot noodles, Kale chips

TUSK + CUP FINE COFFEE 51 Ethan Allen Hwy • 203-544-0800 TuskAndCup.com Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-8pm, Sat/Sun 7am-8pm • Assorted freshly baked muffins, butter croissants, bagels and handmade scones, includes gluten-free options • Artisanal breakfast sandwiches using cage-free eggs and Umpqua Oatmeal in a variety of flavors • Soups and sandwiches made with all natural, preservative-free ingredients

SHELTON THE COMMON BOND MARKET 40 Huntington St • 203-513-8200 TheCommonBondMarket.com Winter Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am7:30pm, Sun 10am-6pm • Extensive hot food bar with vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options • Ready-made breakfast items including burritos, house-made muffins and paleo banana bread

STAMFORD MRS. GREEN’S 950 High Ridge Rd • 203-329-1313 MrsGreens.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-9pm • Prepared soups, salads and assorted vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free entrees available

WESTPORT FRESHII One Main St • 203-222-3599 Freshii.com Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 9am-7pm • Salads (gluten-free dressings available), wraps, rice and noodle bowls, burritos and soups • Frozen yogurt, smoothies, cleansing juices and breakfast foods • Vegan, vegetarian, nut/seed-free and shellfish-free food available STEAM COFFEE BAR 1 Ferry Ln • 203-349-5164 SteamCoffeeBar.com Hours: Mon-Fri 5am-3pm, Sat 8am-3pm, closed on Sunday • House-made muffins, handcrafted

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natural awakenings

croissants, egg sandwiches and other breakfast items offered daily • Gluten-free options for vegans that include fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies and steel-cut oatmeal WHOLE FOODS MARKET 399 Post Rd West • 203-227-6858 WholeFoodsMarket.com Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-10pm • Hot and cold food bars, sandwiches, wraps, daily soups • Wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan items available ORGANIC MARKET 285 Post Rd East • 203-227-9007 Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm • Daily soups, ready-made salads, wraps, fresh squeezed juices, • Hot food bar with a wide variety of entrees made in-house • Many vegetarian and gluten-free selections available

WILTON NAKED GREENS 239 Danbury Rd • 203-529-3770 Naked-Greens.com Hours: Mon-Thurs 7:30am-8pm, Fri 7:30am-7:30pm, Sat 8:30am7:30pm, Sun 11am-4pm • Hearty, handmade savory soups, fresh salads, wraps, raw veggie juice frappes and smoothies • Classic and exotic flavors from all over the world THE WELL 33 Danbury Rd • 203-762-9711 ShopTheWell.com Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, closed on Sunday • Free range, organic and locally farmed products • Daily menu of three standard entrees and two daily specials that are vegan, paleo or gluten-free • “Well Made” soups and sandwiches are made daily on site and are free of artificial ingredients Leslie Beech lives with her daughter in Stamford and is always trying to find healthier eating options outside of her home.

RAW KALE SALADS

by Nava Atlas

H

ealth foodies can step it up a bit by discovering how to make delicious raw kale salads—sometimes referred to as massaged kale salads. Literally massaging this hardy green with olive oil, salad dressing or mashed avocado softens it for easier chewing, brightens the color and improves its flavor. A favorite kind of kale for salads is curly green kale. Lacinato kale works well, too, as long as it isn’t too large and tough prior to massaging.

Even when kale isn’t the main leafy green in a salad, adding a few prepared leaves can up the nutrient value of any kind of green, grain or pasta salad. For each of the following recipes, start with a medium bunch of kale (about eight ounces), or more or less to taste. Finish each salad with sea salt and freshly ground pepper, if preferred.

Southwestern-Flavored Kale Salad

To the massaged kale, add two or three medium-sized fresh ripe tomatoes, a peeled and diced avocado, one to two cups cooked or raw fresh corn kernels, some red bell pepper strips and optional chopped green or black olives. Flavor with freshly squeezed or bottled lime juice, a little olive oil and some chopped cilantro. To up the protein for a main dish, add some cooked or canned, drained and rinsed, black or pinto beans and then sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the top.

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Mediterranean Kale Salad

To the massaged kale, add two or three medium-sized chopped fresh ripe tomatoes, strips of sun-dried tomato, plenty of bell pepper strips and chopped or whole cured black olives. For protein, add a cup or two of cooked or canned, drained and rinsed, chickpeas. Top with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves.

Kale and Avocado Salad

Add a peeled and diced avocado, plus thinly sliced red cabbage to taste, sliced carrots, diced yellow squash, halved red and/or yellow fresh grape tomatoes and sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Optionally, add a little more olive oil in addition to that used for massaging and some freshly squeezed or bottled lemon or lime juice.

Asian-Flavored Kale Salad

Massage the kale with dark sesame oil instead of olive oil as an option. Add a medium-sized red bell pepper, cut into narrow slices, three stalks of bok choy with leaves, sliced (or one sliced baby bok choy) plus one or two thinly sliced scallions. Dress with a sesame-ginger dressing. Optional additions include some crushed toasted peanuts or cashews, steamed or boiled and chilled corn kernels and about four ounces of baked tofu, cut into narrow strips.

All recipes courtesy of Nava Atlas, author of Plant Power: Transform Your Kitchen, Plate, and Life With More Than 150 Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Recipes; used with permission.

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fitbody

Popular Fitness

MYTHS Seven Common Maxims that Can Cause Harm

by Leslie Perry Duffy

W

e’ve heard them time and time again: fitness tips that guarantee we’ll meet our goals if we follow them. The truth is that some can hurt more than help. Here are seven fitness myths that are best to ignore.

No pain, no gain. It’s true that what we put into our workout has a direct impact on results. However, this doesn’t mean workouts should be painful. If something hurts during exercise, try a different move instead that targets the same muscle group to see if the feeling persists; adjust the form in case improper execution is the culprit or give it a rest and return when ready.

Muscle soreness can be expected after a tough workout and can persist for a day or two afterward. Try not to 48

Fairfield County Edition

confuse soreness or the discomfort felt from fatigued muscles during a workout with pain. In the presence of an injury, it’s often best to modify activities that contribute to the pain or refrain from workouts pending expert medical advice. “Working through the pain” might actually make things worse in the long run.

Never exercise a sore muscle.

Muscle soreness is a sign that the muscles are changing. It’s okay to feel sore for a day or two after a workout.

If it appears that the body’s stability or ability to maintain proper form will be affected by the soreness, then wait another day. However, if soreness isn’t severe, working out may actually help to relieve it by warming the muscles and stimulating blood flow. A few good

natural awakenings

activity choices for sore muscles after lifting heavy weights the day before include light cardio, stretching, yoga and light resistance training.

Lifting weights makes women look bulky. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Building big, bulky muscles requires testosterone—and lots of it. Men typically have 20 to 30 times more testosterone than women. For women, strength training is well-known to be key in toning and sculpting muscles, maintaining healthy joints and bones, boosting metabolism and even improving mood and confidence. Don’t be afraid to pick up heavier weights.

To lose a belly, crunch the abs. Yes, abdominal exercises strengthen the core muscles. However, if we carry a layer of fat on top of those muscles, the belly will remain. To lose a belly, continue regular ab work while focusing on cardio exercises, strength training moves for the whole body and eating properly.

The best time to work out is in the morning. The best time to work out is whenever it fits into our schedule.

The more exercise, the faster the results. Not true. When it comes to working out, an appropriate balance of hard work and rest is the best option.

Overusing the body actually prevents muscles from growing, resulting in decreased strength, endurance and metabolism (i.e., caloric burn). Plus, becoming overly fatigued often leads to sloppy form, which may lead to injury.

Listen to the body and rest at least one day a week or more if a break is needed.

Reduce calorie intake to lose weight. The body needs enough fuel to function, especially if it is regularly working hard. Eating less is not always the answer to losing weight. If we’re not eating enough, the body may think it’s starving, which causes it to store fat instead of burning calories, so eating too infrequently or not enough can sabotage weight-loss efforts. Eating smaller, more frequent meals allows the body to metabolize calories more effectively.

Leslie Perry Duffy is a FIRM workout program master instructor and entrepreneur in Columbia, SC, who contributes to Life.Gaiam.com, from which this was adapted.

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greenliving

WHAT TO COMPOST

A Practical Guide to Composting Pick the Best Option for You

Don’t compost: 4 Pet waste 4 Meat and dairy (except in Green Cone device)

by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

Y

ard and food waste make up 25 percent of the garbage destined for municipal landfills, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pick the right composter and this organic waste will easily turn into rich—and free—garden fertilizer, saving landfill space and reducing the volume of greenhouse gases generated by anaerobic decomposition.

Unless using a specialized bin, maintain a roughly 50/50 compost mixture of “brown” and “green” organic waste for ideal results. Green waste is moist, such as fruit and vegetable peels; brown waste comprises dry and papery material, including grass clippings.

composters can dig out the finished compost from the bottom. This method won’t work for households that don’t generate yard waste because a pile of 100 percent green waste will attract pests.

Low-Maintenance Pile

Good for: People that want quick results and can compost in smaller batches; small to average households with yard waste.

These barrelshaped containers are turned with a hand crank, making aerating and speed-

Good for: People that want something simple, don’t need fertilizer immediately and have extra outdoor space; average to large households with yard waste.

Maintaining a compost pile is as easy as its name implies—simply toss organic yard and kitchen waste into a pile in the yard. Aerating or turning the compost with a pitchfork or shovel will provide quicker results, but waste will also decompose if left alone. Within six to 24 months, all of the waste will decompose aerobically into compost. Once a year, 50

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Do compost: 4 Fruit and vegetable scraps 4 Grass clippings, twigs, leaves and wood chips 4 Eggshells (broken into small pieces) 4 Coffee grounds and tea bags 4 Unbleached coffee filters, paper and cardboard

Holding Bin

Good for: People that want a low-maintenance option that’s more attractive than a pile; average to large households with yard waste.

Make a bin out of wood or buy a plastic holding bin, which can contain up to 75 gallons. One with insulated sides may allow decomposing to continue in colder weather.

Tumbling Barrel

natural awakenings

ing up decomposition a breeze. Some manufacturers promise results in as little as two weeks.

Due to the barrel’s relatively smaller size and capacity, getting the balance between brown and green waste right is critical for optimal results, and users will need to wait for one batch of compost to finish before adding more organic waste.

Multi-Tiered Boxes

Good for: People looking for low maintenance, but quicker results than a pile or bin; average to large households with yard waste.

Multi-tiered composters are a series of stacked boxes with removable panels to allow the organic waste to move downward throughout the decomposition cycle. Finished compost comes out of a door at the bottom.

Because the boxes are smaller than a large pile or bin, compost will “cook” faster; some users report their first batch took just four to six months. Collectively, stacked boxes are often comparable in size to a large holding bin, so they can compost a large amount of waste.

Worm Bin

Good for: People that want to compost indoors; apart-

ment dwellers and small households that don’t generate yard waste.

For everyone that has wanted to compost, but had insufficient outdoor space, a five-or-10-gallon bucket and some red worms could be the answer. Worm composting, or vermicomposting, is so compact that a worm bin can fit under most kitchen sinks. Because red worms are so efficient—each pound of them will process half a pound of food scraps daily—a worm bin doesn’t need aeration and won’t smell or attract pests. Note that worms won’t process brown waste, meat, dairy or fatty foods.

Green Cone

Good for: People that just want to dump their kitchen waste and be done with it; those that want to compost fish or meat; households that don’t generate yard waste.

Solarcone Inc.’s Green Cone system will handle up to two pounds of kitchen waste daily, including meat, fish and dairy products. It won’t compost brown waste. Users bury the bottom basket in the yard, and then simply put green waste together with an “accelerator powder” into a cone hole in the top. According to Solarcone, most of the waste turns into water. Every few years, users need to dig a small amount of residue out of the bottom that can be added to a garden.

Tracy Fernandez Rysavy is editor-in-chief of the nonprofit Green America’s Green American magazine, from which this article was adapted (GreenAmerica.org).

BASIC COMPOSTING TIPS

by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

E

nsure that the compost pile retains a moisture content similar to a wrung-out sponge. To moisten, add green waste; to reduce moisture, add brown waste.

Turn compost to get air to the aerobic bacteria and speed the process. Wear gloves and a dust mask to protect against allergens.

Decay generates heat, so a pile should feel warm. If not, add green waste. Decomposition occurs most efficiently when it’s 104 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit inside the pile; use a compost thermometer.

Keep a small container in the kitchen to easily collect green food scraps. Store it in the freezer to keep unpleasant smells and flies at bay.

The best time to start composting is during warmer months. Alternately layering green and brown waste, using the “lasagna method” in colder months, readies the pile to decompose as soon as the weather warms. Consider stockpiling summer yard waste ingredients.

Be aware that low-maintenance composting won’t kill weed seeds, which can then get spread around the garden. A highly managed compost pile will kill some weeds through the generated heat. Put weeds out for municipal yard waste collection where there’s a better chance they’ll be destroyed.

Contributing sources: U.S Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Composting Council

TURKISH RED LENTIL SOUP (Serves 6)

This version of Turkey’s classic lentil soup is home cooking at its best: Simple, flavorful and nutritious. Make it a complete meal by adding a tangy salad and your favorite flatbread or a crusty loaf of whole-grain bread.

Inspired by Whole Planet Foundation® microcredit client recipes.

Whole Foods Market is bringing you natural & organic foods at premium quality, not premium prices.

Westport 399 Post Road West, CT 203.227.6858 Greenwich 90 E. Putnam Avenue, CT 203.661.0631 Darien 150 Ledge Road, CT 203.662.0577

1 1/3 cups (about 8 ounces) red lentils, picked through and rinsed 7 cups low-sodium vegetable broth 1 large onion, diced 1 large carrot, diced 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste Lemon wedges and chopped mint for serving (optional) • In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, cumin and cayenne and bring to a boil over high heat. Lower heat and simmer, uncovered, until vegetables and very tender and lentils begin to fall apart, about 25 minutes.

• Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to quickly blend the soup until it is creamy but not completely puréed. Or, you can blend about half the soup in a blender, but use caution when blending hot liquids: blend only in small batches, hold the lid down firmly with a kitchen towel, and begin blending on low speed. Add salt and serve with lemon wedges and a garnish of mint if desired. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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petbriefs Tax-Deductible Exercise Sessions at BodySmart To benefit Animals In Distress (AID) The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

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

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

52

Fairfield County Edition

B

odySmart is hosting a benefit fundraiser for Wilton’s Animals In Distress Cat Shelter, by offering 55-minute semi-private personal training sessions for $35 per person (two to five people for each session). This offers interested area residents a way to help save cats and kittens even if they are not able to or interested fostering or adopting. Create your own taxdeductible, semi-private personal training session with yourself and friends.

The training sessions for this fundraiser will be held on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays during regular class times. A semi-private class can also be scheduled with groups of up to five people. Reservations are required to reserve a spot in these sessions or to book private groups.

Animals In Distress is a free-roaming no-kill cat shelter with no time limits placed on the length of residence (see AID article, page 56). Facebook.com/ Animals-In-Distress

BodySmart is a non-membership boutique fitness, nutrition and weight loss studio located in Monroe. They have been in business at this location for 11 years.

BodySmart’s mission statement is: “A new you through nutrition, exercise and weight-loss”.

BodySmart is committed to giving back to the community. In 2014, BodySmart focused fundraising efforts on helping the Monroe Food Pantry. BodySmart’s 2015 focus will be on assisting organizations such as Animals in Distress that help animals in need, in their fundraising efforts.

For more information and to register, call Lisa Thompson at 203-209-7359 or Elizabeth Reed at 203-767-0623 or visit Facebook.com/BodySmart. Event location: BodySmart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, (rear of building), Monroe.

Parking in rear of building.

Since 2008, we have rescued more than 1000pure and mixed breed dogs and cats from death row and placed them in foster and forever homes!

We are a foster-based, no-kill rescue dedicated to saving the lives of homeless, neglected, and abused animals by providing a safe refuge, rehabilitation, and permanent homes.

Please

ADOPT • FOSTER • DONATE • VOLUNTEER www.TheLastResortRescue.com • TheLastResortRescue@gmail.com The Last Resort is a 501(c) non-profit, volunteer-run organization.

natural awakenings

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

Daytime Care Options For Dog Owners

by Mary Oquendo

F

airfield County can be an expensive place to live, driving the adults in many households to work full-time jobs.

Add in long commutes and eventually it is the dogs that bear the loneliness of being apart from their people for extended periods of time.

This prolonged time alone can lead to behavioral or physical concerns. Behavioral problems can include destructive behavior due to boredom, as well as over excitability when you come home at night because of the lack of exercise throughout the day. Health problems can become exacerbated if a dog with chronic medical conditions does not receive their timed dose of medications. In addition, dogs holding their urine for prolonged intervals of time on a regular basis has been linked to urinary tract infections and bladder stones.

As a pet owner in Fairfield County, there are many choices available for daily pet care while you are at work.

In your home: You can schedule a specific or range of time for a dog walker to come to your home. A dog walker will walk and spend one on one time with your dog. This is a good solution for those dogs that would not do well around other dogs or people.

T LC Dog Trainer In-Home Dog Training

Puppy Education • Basic Obedience Targeted Behaviors • Behavior Modi�ication

D���� G������, ����, ����, �� D�� B������� C��������� gleasondonna@gmail.com www.tlcdogtrainer.com

Call for a FREE evaluation and consultation 203-241-4449

Training • LOV E • Commitment

Outside of your home: For an additional charge, some dog walkers offer hikes and visits to dog parks. They will spend more one-on-one time as well as provide socialization opportunities with other dogs.

Doggie Day Care Facilities: Some facilities offer a pick-up and drop-off service; the bulk of them do not, so you are responsible for bringing your dog to the facility and picking them up within specified operating hours. A facility may or may not offer interactions with other dogs. Many facilities offer extra services including training, grooming and agility. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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CHOOSING THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG There are several factors that may influence your decision.

Cost: The more services and number of visits you require will determine the price for most of these options. Many facilities or dog walkers offer services ranging from a quick home visit to training, hiking, exercise equipment, water sports and more. The least expensive option will be one visit per day from a dog walker at the time they decide on.

Your dog’s personality: Is he good with other animals and people? Does he enjoy being away from home? Will the environment at the facility be stressful or comforting to him?

Your schedule: Can the facility or dog walker accommodate your time constraints?

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING A FACILITY OR DOG WALKER Personal recommendations: Online reviews do not guarantee that the reviewer is honest. There are instances in which a competitor or someone who did not get the service for free may post a bad review. On the flip side, friends can pepper the reviews as well. A personal recommendation from someone you know is best.

Professionalism: Since the pet industry is not regulated, anyone can open a pet-related business. Find out if they are insured. Do they have forms detailing services, as well as policies and procedures ready for you to sign? What are their health policies? Are they neatly dressed in either a uniform or in logoed attire? Do they have a screening process? How do they interact with your dog? How do they make you feel about leaving your companion in their care?

Safety: Are they certified in pet first aid and is the training less than 2 years old? Protocols change frequently within the veterinary community. Can they recognize a health issue that needs immediate intervention? Do they have training for emergencies and disasters? Do they know what to do in the event of an evacuation? Are they trained in canine body language? Are any employees fully trained as well? Is the facility clean and in good repair, especially the fences?

Commitment to continuing education: Do they attend pet industry educational conferences or are they a member of a professional association such as Pet Sitters International.

Compassion: Working with animals is a labor of love. If training is offered, do they use positive reinforcement?

When it comes to the care of your pets, you want the correct fit, especially if you won’t be present to supervise. While services, cost and accommodating your schedule is important, what makes one choice better than the others is the way your dog will be treated and how happy they will be when you see them at the end of the day.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the coowner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All in New Milford. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 39.

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natural awakenings

doggiedaycareprofile Wagmore

37 Cherry St, Stamford Info@WagmoreCT.com WagmoreCT.com Monday-Friday 6:30am-7pm Saturday-Sunday 7am-6pm Business summary and/ or services offered: We offer half and full daycare sessions, boarding, training, grooming, dog walking and in-home services.

What evaluation process do you use to assess whether a dog is a good fit for your facility’s offerings?

Each dog is treated as an individual. Their personality is assessed, as well as their experience with play groups, and they are introduced accordingly.

What training or certifications are your staff required to have in order to work with groups of dogs?

Staff is trained in canine first aid, CPR and behavior and body language.

What vaccinations is an animal required to have to participate at your facility?

Bordatella, rabies, distemper and negative fecal.

How is the play group/free play day/time structured during the day? How large are the play groups and how are they separated?

Play groups are created by temperaments and play style.

Breaks are determined based on individual needs and whether they are boarding or present for just daycare.

Are dogs crated or kenneled between play sessions? If so, for how long do they play and how long are they confined?

We have standard crates and runs available for use.

Boarding dogs are placed in their assigned areas. Lunch is 1 ½-2 hours. Naps are 1-2 hours.

What is different about the services you offer compared with other facilities in the area?

We are owner operated with more than 30 years of combined experience working with dogs. We have the knowledge to work with dogs that other daycares won’t.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your facility?

We are the largest facility with indoor/outdoor play areas furnished with canine grass in Fairfield County, providing a safe and sanitary surface and care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter CliNiC iS a high quality, low CoSt Spay/Neuter CliNiC.

Tired of unwanted litters?

Need to get your pet fixed, but not sure if you can afford it?

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic can help!

Call 203-690-1550 for an appointment.

Nutmeg SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC

www.nutmegclinic.org 25 Charles Street, Stratford, CT 06615

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

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communityspotlight

Animals in Distress (AID) Needs Your Aid

by Elizabeth Reed

D

id you know animal shelters need your help to survive? The American Humane Society statistics show that nationwide more than five million animals (cats and dogs) enter shelters each year because they are homeless, lost, abandoned or relinquished for some reason. The goal of an animal shelter is to provide a safe and caring environment until a pet’s owner claims it or it is placed in a new home or with another organization for adoption. However, in many cases, animals may be euthanized if they are not adopted within one to two weeks after arriving at some public shelters.

The staggering reality is that 60 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats are euthanized each year at shelters with this policy.

The good news is that most private animal shelters are now typically run

as no-kill shelters. One such notable shelter, founded in 1964, is Animals In Distress (AID), located in Wilton. AID is a free-roaming, no-kill cat shelter with no time limits placed on the length of residence. This nonprofit organization is fully staffed by volunteers who are dedicated to the caring and socialization of cats and kittens to ensure that they are ready for adoption to forever homes.

What makes AID unique is that 100 percent of all donations are used for the caring of their cats, not on advertising or promotional gifts for patrons. It is expensive to run a shelter and they could not exist without the generous donations provided by patrons. Vet bills make up the largest share of expenses for all shelters. The average cost for a new cat or kitten coming into a shelter is approximately $150 for neutering/spaying, medical

Committed To Providing Quality Care At Every Stage Of Your Pet's Life.

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Please call our office today for all your pet health care needs.

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- Comprehensive Healthcare Services - Medical, Surgical and Dental - Serving New Milford, Litchfield County, and the Greater Danbury area.

Providing complete care for our patients since 1987.

Valley Veterinary Hospital • 437 Danbury Road, New Milford, CT 06776 56

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

checkups, shots and bloodwork, including FIV/FeLV testing. The second largest medical expense is for dental or unforeseen medical issues. These expenses are followed by general shelter costs for food, litter, cleaning supplies and miscellaneous necessities.

AID can hold a maximum of 30 cats. “We try to stagger incoming cats so there is less stress amongst cats already here. In many cases, our volunteers and foster families will temporarily house incoming animals to assist in their transition,” explains Katherine Reid, the president of AID. “All new arrivals at AID start their shelter life in crates until they are acclimated. This can take anywhere from overnight to three months or more for a cat to come out of the crate on its own. The shelter’s free-roaming environment makes for a more socialized pet ready for adoption.

We are able to evaluate and learn each cat’s personality. We recognize and recommend if a cat would be better suited for a single pet home or if they would be more suited in a multi-pet household. During their stay, many cats form friendships and bond with other shelter cats. In such cases, it would be ideal for a patron to adopt a bonded pair.”

The dedicated volunteers who work at AID put a great deal of effort into every cat that comes to the shelter.

“Each cat is like a child to the volunteers at AID. We invest our personal emotions, time and effort into each cat

aging the shelter three years ago, Animals in Distress has successfully paired countless people with wonderful cats.

Katherine is so dedicated to the plight of cats in need that she will answer rescue calls in the middle of the night. She has made a real difference in all aspects of making this a terrific shelter.” says Henrici.

As of 2014, the number of companion cats in American households is 95.6 million and the average household has two cats. Cats currently outrank man’s best friend, the dog, as the most popular pet in America. Fundraising for shelters is always a challenge. If you are interested in supporting shelters’ efforts but are unable to foster or adopt a cat, consider helping a local shelter financially with a donation. Without the public’s financial support, no-kill shelters like AID could not exist. In order for shelters to stay open and continue their humanitarian rescue work, they need a influx of funds along with steady adoptions.

we rescue. We are rewarded tenfold through the care we administer to each cat and kitten we nurse back to health, socialize, and then place into a loving forever family,” says Reid.

Connie Henrici, AID’s Treasurer, has been a volunteer since 1999 and has seen a change in the shelter since Reid took over its management. “Since Ms. Reid took over man-

Elizabeth Reed, MS, CNS, is the owner of BodySmart, a boutique fitness and weight loss studio in Monroe. She is a clinical nutritionist, public speaker, PMA-certified pilates teacher and NASM personal trainer. Connect with her at 203767-0623, Facebook.com/BodySmart or BodySmart.cc.

For more information, call 203-762-2006 or visit Facebook. com/Animals-In-Distress or Animals-In-Distress.com. Location: Animals in Distress, 238 Danbury Rd (behind Wilton Town Hall), Wilton. The shelter is open Saturdays 1 to 4 pm or by appointment.

Passage East Boarding Kennels “Compassionate care for all breeds since 1967”

Overnight Boarding Doggy Daycare Full service grooming 24 hour on-site staff Veterinarian recommended Group playtime daily

“This is the best kennel. My Sadie loves to spend the day there. They treat her like a celebrity!” - Marie-Wilton, CT

P: (203) 762-7998 F: (203) 834-0502 499 Danbury Road Wilton, CT 06897

www.passageeastkennels.com

email: passage_east@sbcglobal.net eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2015

57

calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by March 12th (for April 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.

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

The Art of Inquiry - Half Day Retreat – 1-5pm.

Who are you? This is the perfect time and place to go within, giving yourself time and space to deepen your relationship with you through meditation, journaling, group discussion and plenty of personal writing. If not now, when? $75. Redding Meditation Center, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Balance Hormones Naturally. Lose Weight, Feel Great – 7-8pm. Losing weight is only one of the many pluses of balancing your hormones. Find out how SOPHIA can help you! $20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. Info@Sophia NaturalHealth.com. SophiaNaturalHealth.com.

Guided Relaxation With Healing Gong – 1:303:30pm. Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with gentle stretching and guided deep relaxation. Attendees receive a free Acupressure Finger Massage Ring and some lavender essential oil to take home. $30. Kaia Yoga Greenwich, 328 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203856-5299. Alex@AlexNason.com. KaiaYoga.com.

Journey Into Your Past Lives (Past Life Regression) – 3pm. With Brian Weiss and Ronna Brier. Group hypnosis brings you to visit a past life, explore it and bring back the lesson to be learned to promote healing in this life. Bring yoga mat and blanket. Pre-registration required. $65.

SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119.

SoundCenterArts.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3 Healthy Living for Aging Population – 6:30-8pm, 8-8:30pm. With Lisa Singley N.D., M.S. Question and answer session. 922 Barnum Ave Cutoff, Stratford. 203-377-3652. NatureWay9@aol.com.

NaturesWayHealthfoods.com.

Experiencing Your Past Lives and Soulmates – 6:30-9pm. With Ashod Kassabian. Introductory workshop. Call to confirm. $20. Albertson Spiritualist Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

917-733-5732. ExperiencingYourPastLives.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 Masters & Mixers Painting & Wine Parties – 7-9:30pm. With a paintbrush in one hand and a beverage of your choice in the other, follow along while an Instructor leads you through the steps to create your own masterpiece based on a featured painting. Reservations required. $35. Georgetown School of the Arts, 25 Old Mill Rd, West Redding. 203-544-8551. GvrBooth@optonline.net.

GeorgetownArts.com/Masters-Mixers.

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Illuminating the Codes of Your Spiritual Life – 6:30-8:30pm. With Catherine Frenzel. Learn to decode the wealth of information embedded in your date of birth. This includes personality, destiny/life path, character strengths and weaknesses, health alerts for areas of potential concern, ages during your life that have particular significance; are you repeating a past life? $80. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years).

Includes latest info. Learn Reiki for self-healing and healing others. 4 powerful energy connections, from short (Japanese/Usa) linage, 2 manuals and certificate. $115 + $10/materials. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHeal ReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Reiki Master

Jill Hill € Usui Reiki Sessions € House Calls for Pets

203-722-4362 Ridgefield, CT spiritvibe11@gmail.com

Feel Peaceful € Gain Clarity € Leave Lighter 58

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

markyourcalendar Experiencing Your Past Lives and Soulmates with

Ashod Kassabian

Introductory ($20) and all day Workshops ($50) for Professionals and non-professionals Held at Albertson Spiritualist Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich For more information: 917-733-5732 or ExperiencingYourPastLives.com Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon5pm. Many modalities available; tarot, pendulum, mediumship, psychic readings, palmistry, past life readings. Sessions approx. 25 mins. Also Pranic Healing sessions and Reiki healing for people and animals. $40 and $50 readings, $20 and $25 healings. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10Cats@ optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Vinyasa Principles to Create Ease in Your Practice – 3-5pm. With Michelle O’Brien. The Vinyasa Principles workshop will allow students time to really be in their own bodies and learn very pinpoint alignment fundamentals that will ease their transitions and understanding of what it means to Vinyasa. $35/by 2/28, $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@Yoga4Everybody.net.

Yoga4Everybody.net.

Yin Yoga and the Chakras – 3-5pm. with Elizabeth Crisci. Yin Yoga is a passive, deep style of yoga that includes seated and reclined stretching postures.

Elizabeth will lead you through a relaxing, introspective practice designed to balance the chakras and your mind. Don’t miss this blissful afternoon practice. $35/by 3/1. $40 thereafter. Kure Yoga, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr (parking and entrance around back), Norwalk. 203-857-1500. Kure-Spa.com.

Night of Sacred Dance – 7:30pm. With Kristie Liotta. Together, dancers will celebrate the spirit of being a woman and feel empowered to dance and live more fully. All levels welcome. $30.

SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119.

SoundCenterArts.com.

markyourcalendar Creating Calm in the Chaos

a workshop on Stress Management and Self Care, presented by Christel Autuori, RDH RYT MA CIHC, Integrative Health of Connecticut

Thursday, April 23 • 7-8:30pm

Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Road Suite 101, Ridgefield Questions? Please call 203-788-0647 Space is limited –Register early!

Send check for $35 to Christel Autuori P.O.Box 269, Ridgefield, CT 06877

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Angel Signs/Numbers Workshop – 7-9pm. Your angels frequently send messages through signs!

Learn how to ask the angels for signs, discuss ways the angels show their signs, and how to recognize these signs. Handout of angel numbers and meanings will be provided. $40. Trumbull High School, 72 Strobel Rd, Trumbull. 203-452-4554.

AngelHappiness.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 12

for adult professionals seeking to make an impact and live the life they always promised themselves.

Free. RSVP. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Learn.edu/Events.

Journey with Crystals – 2:30-4:30pm.With Carrie Picardi. This workshop is designed to offer an introduction to crystals, and to illuminate participants on the fascinating and powerful (and simple!) ways in which crystals enhance our lives and those around us. $30/by 3/7, $40 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@ Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Native American Drumming Circle – 7-8:30pm.

Come and enjoy the enlightening experience of drumming. No experience is necessary. Preregistration required, drums are limited. $25/ seniors. $15/students. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. MRispoli2@aol.com.

Soul-Focus.me.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15 Guided Relaxation with Healing Gong – 1:303:30pm. Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with gentle stretching and guided deep relaxation. Attendees receive a free Acupressure Finger Massage Ring and some lavender essential oil to take home. $25. Dew Yoga, 123 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. 203-856-5299.

Alex@AlexNason.com. DewYoga.net.

You Can Easily and Quickly Change Your Brain to Change Your Life – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Adam Breiner. Are you intrigued by what untapped potential you have? Learn how to achieve more in your life through Higher Brain Living. Select Event on our website to register. Free. Awaken Higher Brain Living Center, 17 Bridge Square, Westport. 203263-8333. HigherBrainLivingWestport.com.

Yoga for Golfers – 2-4pm. With Joy LeVine Abrams. This program is designed to: improve swing rotation, strengthen golf specific muscles, deepen concentration, improve balance, control & confidence as well as minimize your vulnerability to injury. Come and have fun! $35/by 3/8, $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@Yoga4Everybody. net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

Experiencing Your Past Lives and Soulmates – 9am-5pm. With Ashod Kassabian. In-depth all day workshop. For professionals and non-professionals. Advanced registration preferred. $50/preregistration fee. Albertson Spiritualist Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 917-733-5732.

ExperiencingYourPastLives.com.

Info Session at The Graduate Institute – 11amNoon. Learn about the holistic and integrative graduate and certificate programs at The Graduate Institute. The programs are flexible and affordable

Herbs for Young Children – 1:15-3pm. With Lupo Passero, Community Herbalist. Herbs are an effective option to help support immune health, stress and brain function in children. Learn specific recommendations for kid-friendly herbal remedies that can be used all year round. $45. Twin Star Herbs, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883.

TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com. TwinStarHerbal.com.

I.E.P. Tune Up: Common Core State Standards to the Rescue – 7-8:30pm. With Linda Talbert, Special Education Advocate. Bring your child’s I.E.P., col-

Transformation For Life YOGA MASSAGE FACIALS

Wellness Center 203-617-8228

80 North St., Danbury, CT 06810 www.liveyourtransformation.com

Jill Myruski L.M.T., RYT 200

markyourcalendar Awaken Wellness Fair …Awaken to Your Best Self…

Sunday March 15 10am to 5pm

Double Tree by Hilton Hotel 455 South Broadway (Rt 9) Tarrytown. NY Speakers, Healers, Vendors and Readers Over 100 exhibitors, 1000 guests!

AwakenFair.com Click on “Tarrytown 3-15” Exhibitor spots available ored pen, yellow highlighter and your vision for the next 12 months. Align your child’s I.E.P. Common Core State Standards. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 Lifestyle/Home Care Workshop: Chinese Dietary Therapy – 7-8:30pm. Western medicine focuses on nutrient content. Chinese medicine does that as well, but takes into account the energetic properties of foods that can transform health. Food tastings and recipes provided! Free for patients. Non-Patients: $20 donation, free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield.

203-740-9300. Info@SophiaNaturalHealth.com.

SophiaNaturalHealth.com.

Questions & Answers about Reiki – 7-9:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. 7-8:30pm: talk about Reiki with Q&A for non-Reiki. 8:159:30pm: talk and Q&A for Reiki certified Practitioners to inquire about advanced training. Includes latest info on Western Style Reiki. Mini-Reiki sessions included. $5 or $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHeal ReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Fairy Forts and Stone Circles: Irish Mythology, Past and Present – 6:30pm. Drawing on numerous visits to Ireland, Joseph Campbell Foundation and Mythological Round Table of New Haven facilitator Marta Koonz will lead a lively conversation on the

Chamomille

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March 2015

59

markyourcalendar NewLife Expo NYC March 20 - 22 America’s Largest Mind, Body, Spirit, Health & Enlightenment Expo returns to the Hotel Pennsylvania Join Gail Thackray, Mas Sajady, Dr. Robert Young, Sean Morton, Kat James and 150 other exhibitors and speakers.

For info, Pre-registration or Volunteering NewLifeExpo.com • 516-897-0900 ancient legends and modern implications of Ireland’s mythology. Donations accepted to help support the Joseph Campbell Foundation. Free. RSVP. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany.

Learn.edu/Events.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 Introduction to Herbalism – 3-5pm. With Lupo Passero, Community Herbalist, will share traditions of herbalism and discuss medicinal uses of common herbs. Learn how to make herbal remedies at home with herbs that grow right in your own back yard.

Free. Twin Star Herbs, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com.

TwinStarHerbal.com.

NATURAL AWAKENINGS

is Everywhere!

Y

ou can find a copy of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County at more than 1200 locations each month! We’re always adding new locations and welcoming new readers.

NORWALK We are currently distributed at 50 locations in Norwalk including: • Stew Leonard’s • City Hall • Norwalk Library, main branch • The Stand • Valencia • Norwalk Hospital and the Norwalk Hospital Integrative Medicine Department • Splash Car Wash on Westport Ave.

Our amazing advertisers in Norwalk will always have a few copies on hand!

• Acupuncture Healing of CT • Alba Thermal Imaging • Angelic Healing Center • Associates in Family Chiropractic • Dog Gone Smart • Eyecare Associates • Kure Spa • Savor Healthy Organic • Sleep Etc. • TLC Center • Unity Church • Wellness Institute If you have suggestions for a new distribution point in Norwalk, please email: NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com

60

Fairfield County Edition

SUNDAY, MARCH 22 How to Focus Your Healing Energy and Receive Clear Information – 1-3pm. With Alexandra Leclere, energy healer and medium. Workshop helps you identify how you receive messages and when to trust them. Experiential workshop will bring you the confidence that you have been seeking in your spiritual development. $25. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Guided Relaxation With Healing Gong – 3-5pm.

Guided relaxation will help you melt, release, and rejuvenate away pain, tension and stress. Your mind and body enter into a deep state of meditation where healing on a subatomic level is possible. $20.

Be Shri Yoga, 1345 E Putnam Ave, 2nd Flr, Old Greenwich. 203-856-5299. Alex@AlexNason.com.

BeshriYoga.com.

TUESDAY MARCH 24 Experiencing Your Past Lives and Soulmates – 6:30-9pm. With Ashod Kassabian. Introductory workshop. Call to confirm. $20. Albertson Spiritualist Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

917-733-5732. ExperiencingYourPastLives.com.

Online Info Session about The Graduate Institute – 7-8pm. Learn about the holistic and integrative graduate and certificate programs at The Graduate Institute. The programs are flexible and affordable for adult professionals seeking to make an impact and live the life they always promised themselves.

Free. RSVP and login at Learn.edu/Events.

THURSDAY, MARCH 26 Info Session at The Graduate Institute – 5-6pm.

Learn about the holistic and integrative graduate and certificate programs at The Graduate Institute.

The programs are flexible and affordable for adult professionals seeking to make an impact and live the life they always promised themselves. Free. RSVP. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany.

Learn.edu/Events.

How to Stay Sane in a Crazy World: OASIS in the Overwhelm Workshop – 6-8pm. With Millie Grenough. New and experienced attendees have the opportunity to learn new information about the neuroscience of the brain and have the opportunity to learn and practice strategies to enhance their personal health and deepen their happiness. RSVP. $40. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany.

Learn.edu/Events.

Meet Your Power Animal – 6:30-8pm. Come learn more about working with animal totems and power animals. Most everyone has had animal encounters in their lives and many people find their relationships with their pets to be very healing and uplifting.

Animals possess many abilities such as great sight, the ability to fly, to leap, and run very fast that we as humans don’t. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years).

Learn Reiki 2nd Degree in the Western style. Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two

natural awakenings

markyourcalendar The Tao of Marketing at the Redding Meditation Center

Saturday, April 18 • 12:30-9pm This workshop demonstrates how to integrate spiritual practice and psychological self-inquiry into a fundamental transformation of people’s lives and their marketing approaches.

Cost: $150 RSVP - 917-724-1307 HolisticPR.com manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 How to Cope With the Suicide of a Loved One – 1-2:30pm. With Adele Ryan McDowell, Ph.D. Come and find connection, understanding and ways to cope and mend your broken heart. Learn the particular grief that comes from suicide, approaches helpful for healing and assorted strategies. $25. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Guided Relaxation with Healing Gong – 3-5pm.

Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with gentle stretching and guided deep relaxation. Attendees receive a free Acupressure Finger Massage Ring and some lavender essential oil to take home. $25. Kaia Yoga Westport, 1200 Post Rd East, Westport. 2038565299. Alex@AlexNason. com. KaiaYoga.com.

TUESDAY, APRIL 7 Healthy Skin & Hair – 6:30-8pm, 8-8:30pm.

With Kasia Lindeberg M.S., Ruth Davenport M.S. and Joyce Pellegrino (Body Care Manager). Question and answer session. 922 Barnum Ave Cutoff, Stratford. 203-377-3652. NatureWay9@aol.com.

NaturesWayHealthfoods.com.

markyourcalendar 9th US Spiritist Symposium

Laboratory of the Invisible World Saturday, May 2, 10am – 7pm Marriott Hotel & Spa 243 Tresser Blvd, Stamford Speakers, workshops and youth activities Topics: Spirit Communications and Manifestations, Art through Mediumship and more...

Go to SpiritualityNow.net for more information and registration.

ongoingevents sunday 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.

CHANTSFORMATIONS-A Chant & Meditation Experience – 9-9:45am. With Andrea Rudolph, Jewish Interfaith Minister. Gather to contemplate and nurture the spirit within through the practice of chant and meditation. No prior Hebrew knowledge required. All faiths. Suggested donation: $10.

ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe.

203-257-1009. InTheSpiritofLife@gmail.com.

InTheSpiritOfLife.com.

New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. We come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive, community environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-9806272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

Spiritual Sunday Services – 10-11am. A one-hour service followed by community hour from 11amnoon. The Arc Sacred Center is a non-profit spiritual community center created for the purpose of offering a gathering place for spiritual exploration and teaching, freedom of spiritual expression and healing for the body, mind and soul. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Volunteers – 10am-noon. Pledge time to volunteer Sundays at various homes for the elderly and nursing homes in Fairfield and Southbury. Receive credits towards Reiki training. Reiki Overtones, 95 Harris St, Fairfield. Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958.

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

Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love.

Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

Family Program (Kids and Teens) – First and third Sunday. Family Program introducing kids to meditation, metta (loving-kindness affirmations), yoga, art practice, a discussion of mindfulness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Buddhist ideas that are common to all spiritual paths. Parents can meditate in the main building.

Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

A Walk in Nature is a Path to Progress

monday Writing to Find Your Self: The Art of Inquiry – 9:30-11am. Discover hidden facets of yourself! Beth creates a cozy environment and serves up thoughtful questions designed to stimulate new ways of looking at yourself and life. This is a provocative and playful process-oriented series of four classes. $160/series.

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

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Fundraiser for Animals in Distress Shelter – Noon. Through 4/4. Benefit Fundraiser. Animals In Distress Shelter AID is a free-roaming no-kill cat animal shelter located in Wilton. 55-minute, semiprivate PT Sessions (2-5 people/session). RSVP required. $35 (100 percent donated to Shelter).

Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-767-0623. ElizJReed@earthlink. net. BodySmart.cc.

Gentle Flow Yoga Candle Lit – 6:15-7:15pm.

With Aga. Beginners welcome. Bring water bottle and Yoga Mat if you have one. First class free for new students! $15/drop-in. $10/class pass. $100/10 classes. More information: 203-559-9656. Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Yoga – 7-8:15pm. With Charles Sikorski, RYT. Weekly. Charles encourages one to find one’s true self: physically, mentally and spiritually. $13/per session or 5/$60, 10/$110, 20/$200. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-414-6790.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Eckhart Tolle Study Group: A New Earth - Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose – 7-9pm. Take part in this open hearted, supportive group as we dismantle EGO (that anxious, negative, limiting part of your mind) and learn to locate and experience your True Self. Free or by donation. 154 Head of Meadow Rd, Newtown. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@ gmail.com. NewtownLove.org.

Explore new territory, advertise in Natural Awakenings’ April Nature’s Wisdom & Healthy Home Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

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ongoingevents monday Women’s Holistic Self-Defense – 7-9pm. Weekly program combines martial arts and self-awareness techniques, to build confidence, remain calm and empower yourself in any life situation. Meets in Norwalk. Limitless-Potential.net.

Transformation and Healing – 7:30-8:15pm. Rev. Ed O’Malley uses a Shamanic Illumination Process which removes heavy energies from luminous energy fields, returning the body and soul to its initial state of wellness. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Guided Meditation at Sabita Holistic Center –7:30-8:30pm. Give yourself the gift of meditation at Sabita Holistic Center. Internationally known Dr. Levy has worked for over the past 35 years in stress reduction, deep relaxation and meditation. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633.

Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan. 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. The Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $120/8-classes, $20/drop-in. Transformation for Life, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com.

LiveYourTransformation.com.

Pilates – 9:15-10am. Wth Laura Lehrhaupt, Certified Holistic Health Counselor. Laura is also a certified Spinning, Kickboxing, Balletone and Pilates Instructor. $13/class. $15/drop-in. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. BeWellLaural@ gmail.com. BeWellLaural.com.

Tots Yoga for Crawler-17months – 10:15-11am.

Partner with your little one for animated yoga poses, games, music and breathing exercises to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. Please preregister for your free trial class. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford. 203-253-0764.

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

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wednesday

Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6 Weeks Old Pre-Crawling – 11:15am-noon. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep. Great opportunity to bond with your baby and connect with other moms. Please preregister for free trial at FamilyTreeYoga.net. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford.

203-253-0764. KimberlyMotill@gmail.com.

Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice.

With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Call or email for more information. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny.Hannigan@ charter.com. Trumbull. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Fundraiser for Animals in Distress Shelter – Noon.

Through 4/4. Benefit Fundraiser. Animals In Distress Shelter AID is a free-roaming no-kill cat animal shelter located in Wilton. 55-minute, semi-private PT Sessions (2-5 people/session). RSVP required. $35 (100 percent donated to Shelter). Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203767-0623. ElizJReed@earthlink.net. BodySmart.cc.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Kundalini Yoga – 6:15pm. With Gina and Alisa.

Classes incorporate exercises, chanting, breathwork, meditation, and a deep relaxation & integration with the gong to provide you with tools to help manage the stress in your life and live more gracefully in the world. $15/class. $120/10 classes. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, 24 Clapboard Ridge Rd, Danbury. 203-312-0132. CassettaWoman@ hotmail.com.

BodySmart – 6:15-7:30pm. Semi-private sessions for 2-4 participants. Complete core/body conditioning exercises and stretching utilizing a 9-foot floor to ceiling X-Pole. $45/class-discount with 6+ classes (pre-reg required). BodySmart, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. Call Lisa for details, additional schedule information and to register: 203-209-7359.

Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. Starts with free information session on 2/10. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. Location: ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke (Rt 202), New Preston. 860-868-6707 or, Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation. MeetUp.com.

The Science of Getting Rich – 7pm. 8-week series.

Becoming rich is a science that can be proven only by applying the principles of getting rich. Most significantly, thought. Acquire the ability to think the way we want to think. Love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203.855.7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Angelic Healing Group—7-9pm. First Tuesday.

Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm.

Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893.

Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

natural awakenings

Candlelit Yoga Flow – 6:30-7:30pm. With Aga. Beginners welcome. Bring water bottle and Yoga Mat if you have one. First class free for new students! $15/drop-in. $10/class pass. $100/10 classes. More information: 203-559-9656. Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-2708220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Albertson Church Healing Service – 7-8pm. Third Wednesday. Guided meditation, receive healing energy from church-sanctioned healers and the gift of saging.

All are welcome. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

Journaling with Spirit – 7-8pm. By Rev. Shawn Moninger. Journaling is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get in touch with the highest voice within ourselves. First-time attendees receive a new journal. Love offering. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

Psychic Development Class – 7-8:30pm. 4-week Class. Starts 4/1, ends 4/29. Class is designed for you to grow and develop within your own skills, abilities and gifts through practical and interactive exercises.

Please bring a pen and journal. Pre-registration is required. Call for information and/or registration. $225. 203-570-3868. Soul-Focus.me.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. WCSU, Danbury Midtown Campus, Warner Hall, Rm 103S or: Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation. MeetUp.com.

The Pathwork Lectures - 4 Week Class – 7-8:30pm.

With Maria Corsaro, certified 50/50 Pathwork helper and teacher. Each week we will read one lecture and work with exercises which were created to help bring key lecture concepts to the participant’s life. Love Offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterPS. org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Journey Within: Do You Feel Stuck? – 7-9pm.

First Wednesday. Need support trying to begin something new? Support, intuitive insight, wisdom. Facilitator: Cindy Miller, intuitive. $20.

Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. Call: 203-426-9448. SacredGrounds.bz.

TrinityProduction.org.

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. Redding Center for Meditation, $20, $150/10-session card.

Registration required. 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, Redding. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Kripalu Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. With Kat Barton, 500-hour professional Kripalu teacher. Focus on breath and be present. Class is suitable for all levels and will start whereever you are. This class will help center you and relax. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@GracefulPlanet.com.

GracefulPlanet.com.

Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Wellness Seminars – 5:30pm. Ask questions about your health and hear how naturopathic medicine can help. Brief video is shown highlighting tests not generally done in conventional medicine and their usefullness in detecting conditions in the body that would not otherwise be noticed with regular lab work.

Sessions may include chair massage, fitness testing, BMI and light refreshment. Pre-registration necessary.

Free. 239 Plattsville Rd, Trumbull. 203-374-5309.

LewisSenior@DoctorsToHealth.com. Drs2Health.com.

Yoga Tea Potluck – 6:30-8pm. Do your own practice, no instruction. 8-10pm. Potluck in barn.

Practice together with other yogis. Also open for meditation if this is your main practice. Please prepare food to share. Bring plate, cup and utensils.

Tea provided. Information: DesreTarr@gmail.com.

Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat. 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Join both parents and caregivers to learn more about how to support children and teens with attentional and executive functioning issues. Emphasis will not only be on connecting with others, but about gaining valuable strategies and techniques. Free.

The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848.

DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com.

Energy Tools Study Group MeetUp – 7-8:30pm.

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, near Merritt, Weston. 203-2471318. Robin@RobinFriedman.net. Meetup.com/ Energy-Tools-Study-Group.

Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203730-YOGA or: Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation. MeetUp.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday.

All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website.

Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20.

Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterPS.org.

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ongoingevents thursday Pre-Natal Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. For all stages of pregnancy. This class will combine yoga postures, breath work and relaxation techniques to help release tension and fatigue and prepare for labor, delivery and the post-partum period. Please pre-register for your free trial class. The United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Ave, Norwalk. 203-253-0764.

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Channeled Messages and Meditations – 7:309:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Through meditation and channeling receive information, energetic atonements and initiations from Spirit. This group is for those who want to develop and expand their energetic vibration. $20. Space is limited. Ridgefield.

203-438-4893.

friday Psychic Tarot Readings – Sunshine Estar Intuitive, Psychic Tarot, Medium Pranic Healer, Reiki II Healer.

Free. Black Cat Mystic Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-414-9786. JohnnyMastri@aol.com.

BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

A Course in Miracles Study Group – 9:15am.

Meets bi-weekly in Westport. Facilitator: Henry Grayson, PhD. Free. To reserve seat and for dates/ location: 203-454-1745.

Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Duncan. Reiki shares for those interested in practicing Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help others develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. The Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public’s Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052.

Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6-Weeks OldPre-Crawling – 11:15am-noon. Mom and baby will practice yoga together! This class is a great opportunity to bond with your baby and to connect with other moms. Pre-register for free trial class.

First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford. 203-253-0764. KimberlyMotill@gmail.com.

FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net. ReikiOvertones.com.

cards. $40. TLC Center Norwalk, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262.

Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.

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

Yoga & Pilates – 8:30-10am. Fun class combining yoga and pilates. In this class we play with all the toys - using bands, blocks, balls and light weights for a complete workout. Lengthen and tone and end with a restorative relaxation. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@GracefulPlanet.com.

GracefulPlanet.com.

Fundraiser for Animals in Distress Shelter – 9am, 11am, noon. Through 4/4. Benefit Fundraiser.

Animals In Distress Shelter AID is a free-roaming no-kill cat animal shelter located in Wilton. 55-minute, semi-private PT Sessions (2-5 people/session).

RSVP required. $35 (100 percent donated to Shelter). Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-767-0623. ElizJReed@ earthlink.net. BodySmart.cc.

Community Yoga by Donation – 9-10:15am. Enjoy a 75-minute vinyasa flow yoga practice suitable for all levels with 200RYT Jennifer Cranna. This community class is on a monetary donation basis, so all may reap the benefits of yoga. Bring your mat or use ours. By donation. Zen Do Ju-Jitsu, 80 Park Ln, New Milford.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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.

The Universal Reiki Plan – 11am-1pm. Third Saturday. Reiki Practitioners. Register for a free Reiki session. Free. Love offerings appreciated. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant, 85 Ferris St, Bridgeport.

Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net. ReikiOvertones.com.

TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Tarot Friday – 7-9pm. Have fun with Beth with this self-help tool for novices to longtime Tarot friends to explore the Tarot or develop a deeper relationship with your

The Universal Reiki Plan – 1:30-4:30pm. Third Saturday. Reiki practitioners only. Workshop and Reiki Share. Free. Love offerings appreciated. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant, 85 Ferris St, Bridgeport.

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natural awakenings

In-Depth Exploration of the Tarot – 2-5pm. Deepen your understanding of the tarot as keys to self-understanding and spiritual revelation. Unique 8-week series includes guided meditation, journaling, artwork, interpretation and discussion to awaken your intuition. $800.

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203.856.9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Reiki Session – 5-6pm. Offering free Reiki sessions during classes. Students participate as part of class syllabus. First reserved. ReikiOvertones, 95 Harris St, Fairfield. Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net. ReikiOvertones.com.

Knitting Group - Purls of Wisdom – 6-8pm. With Diane Bustamante. Make prayer shawls. Completed shawls will be blessed by the Unity community and delivered to those in need of comfort. All welcome.

Bring yarn and needles/hook, if you have them. Supplies available for purchase. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityPurlsOfWisdom@ gmail.com. UnityCenterPS.org/PurlsOfWisdom.

Planetary Peace Meditation – 7-8pm. With MiniPranic Healing every Saturday. Please call to reserve a space. Free. Black Cat Mystic Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-414-9786. JohnnyMastri@aol. com. BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

Kirtan with the Bindu Band – 7-9pm. Come join The Bindu Band on their vibrational journey back to the heart. Bring some snacks and beverages to share.

Love offerings accepted. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. Register: 203-268-1272.

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 SPACE AVAILABLE - PT OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE in a holistic educational & healing arts center in a renovated chapel in Newtown, CT. Unique opportunity to rent office space and also be supported by the center. Also seeking local artisans to sell art and teach classes. Workshop/ programs considered for spring 2015. Openings in Jan/Feb. Want team players with great energy.

SoundCenterArts@gmail.com.

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.

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

ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 32.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

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

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

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

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

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

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY XTORAYS.COM

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

Certified DITI thermographer.

Conveniently located throughout Fairfield.

CANCER TREATMENT ADVANCED MEDICINE OF MT. KISCO, PC Neil Raff, M.D., CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com

The most advanced natural nutritional treatment and support for all stages of cancer – high-dose vitamin C, European herbals, Iscador (mistletoe), ozone, immune boosters. Specializing in removal of cancer causing toxins.

Call for free consultation.

CHIROPRACTIC RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 13.

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

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

DETOXIFICATION ADVANCED MEDICINE OF MT. KISCO, PC Neil Raff, M.D., CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com

Westchester’s most experienced office for the detection and treatment of toxic metals (lead, mercury, aluminum, etc.), the underlying cause of many inflammatory, immune and digestive conditions.

Years of experience with chelation, IV or oral. Call for free consultation.

LIVER MEDIC

800-387-2278 • LiverMedic.com Liver Medic manufactures specialized proprietary liver detox supplements. Products are safe and endorsed by physicians. We source only premium raw materials to maximize effectiveness of our unique formulations. All products adhere to strict cGMP guidelines, contain no artificial anything and are non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan when possible. The liver is complex, we make it simple. See ad, page 71.

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HEALTH COACH

EDUCATION

MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 14.

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

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 29.

HOLISTIC DENTIST

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 26.

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

5520 Park Ave, Ste 301, Ffld Town Line Merritt Pkwy, Exit 47 203-371-0300 • 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 sought after speaker and lecturer.

His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold world-wide. See ad, page 2.

GREEN LIVING BIOTOP NATURAL POOLS

BY AQUA-SCAPES LLC

203-743-7665 • AquaScapeBy@sbcglobal.net AquaScapesPool.com Imagine swimming in cool, pure, healthy, “living” water created by plants, bacterias and 30 years of experience. No more red eye, bleached hair, itchy skin and the many negative effects of chlorine. See ad, page 36.

All gardening is

CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut H e a d a c h e and Migraine Relief Center’s ( C H M R C ) approach to headache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 9.

landscape painting.

HYPNOSIS

~William Kent

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

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, page 41.

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INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN BAREKMED/LOWELL B BAREK, M.D., PC 203-733-3680 • BarekMed@gmail.com BarekMed.com

BarekMed is an “Age Management Medicine” practice offering patients Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement with exercise and nutritional support. Patients following an “Age Management Program” can expect to regain the vigor, libido, lean body, stamina, mental clarity and enhanced immune function they knew as young adults. See ad, page 17.

HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.

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

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

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad, page 27.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

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

See ad, page 21.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT JOAN CARRA

Psychic Medium 203-531-6387 • PsychicJoanCarra.com Facebook.com/PsychicJoan.Carra Joan is recommended by six books and has 20 years experience. Find solutions, comfort and closure.

Specializing in contacting passed loved ones. Available for private sessions, parties and corporate events.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK LAURA CARLSON, LMT

Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC Yo u d e s e r v e t o b e nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance.

Relaxing and nourishing massage will encourage positive changes in your mind and body. Individual sessions and massage parties available.

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

Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/ Child Massage Instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 30.

ZAK WALKER, LMT

Wellness Institute One Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-443-6679 • ZaxWeb@gmail.com I combine elements of Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Acupressure and Myofascial Release, according to the goals and preferences of each client. I’m here to help you feel your best!

MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 • FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs. See ad, page 23.

MEDITATION

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

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.

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 12.

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org

NATURAL FOOD MARKET THE COMMON BOND MARKET 40 Huntington St, Shelton TheCommonBondMarket.com 203-513-8200

The Common Bond Market is a natural food market that provides The Valley with more healthful alternatives than the usual grocery fare. You’ll also find hot food, supplements, and much more. Find us on Facebook! See ad, page 13.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 24.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

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

Ellen M. Lewis, ND, Director 260 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd East, 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 Man-agement, Skin Care.

Insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, M.D., ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 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.

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 16.

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ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

PSYCHOTHERAPY YUDIT MAROS, LMFT, CHt

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 860-933-7370 • Center4AuthenticLiving.com

THE CLEAN BEDROOM

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT

Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton 203-926-6997 • PhysicalTherapySoCT.com Specializing in evaluation & treatment of musculoskeletal imbalance & injuries. Results achieved that traditional physical therapy may not. Therapeutic approaches such as manual therapy, cranialsacral, visceral manipulation and vestibular rehab. State of the art facility for strengthening & overall rehabilitation.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Author of Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love. There is hope! Even life-long unhappiness can be helped. State-of-the art psychotherapy for individuals of all ages, couples and families.

Trauma resolution, Relationship Clinics, six-week Authenticity Clinics for inner connection.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & 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.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

JUDITH BARR, LPC, CCMHC Brookfield 203-775-5006 • JudithBarr.com PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com

Depth psychotherapist Judith Barr helps you grow consciously and safely, heal to the root, reconnecting with your Self. As “spiritual midwife,” she helps you give deeper, fuller birth to your Self. Weary of trying to solve your problems by “managing” thoughts and feelings? You don’t need to resign yourself to suffering. Heal to the root with Judith. See ad, page 40.

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.

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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

REIKI DEBORAH GAYLORD, RMT, IARP

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

JILL HILL

Reiki Master 203-722-4362 • SpiritVibe11@gmail.com Experience the profound impact of bringing your Physical, Emotional, Mental and Spiritual bodies back into balance and embrace the joy in life once again! Usui Reiki sessions - All Reiki levels taught. Ridgefield area. See ad, page 58.

THE LIGHT OF HAPPINESS REIKI AND WELLNESS

Deborah Arconti, LPN, RMT, IARP Reiki Master/Teacher Advance Practice IET Danbury • 203-470-0635 TheLightOfHappiness.com Specializing in Reiki and IET sessions for mind, body and spirit connections. IET “Integrated Energy Therapy” uses angelic connections for soothing results.

Teaching all levels of small Usui Reiki classes, experienced in training healthcare professionals.

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

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

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

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

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

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

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH PRINS LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels - greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot.

See ad, page 19.

ORGANIC REMEMBRANCE

Slyms Bazile 203-479-0417 • BSlyms@gmail.com

Ne Sh w op W ly U Ou eb pg r Sto rad re ed

Slyms Bazile is a certified Reiki Practitioner and certified Medicinal Aromatherapist. She created Organic Remembrance Therapy, a fusion of healing modalities gathered in remembrance of our organic roots.

Call now for a free consultation.

WELLNESS CENTER

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

KURE SPA

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

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

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

Opening in November to provide a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, yoga, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, page 7.

SALTANA CAVE

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

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

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

WELLNESS CENTER iFLOAT

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

See ad, page 19.

Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

TRANSFORMATION FOR LIFE Jill Myruski LMT, RYT 200 Danbury • 203-617-8228 LiveYourTransformation.com

Experienced and skilled practitioners provide effective Jill has over 18 years in practice as a Licensed Massage Therapist. She is also a certified Health Coach and Yoga Teacher. The Wellness Center is an ideal place to take a yoga class, learn more about healthy lifestyles or enjoy massage and facials. See ad, page 59.

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COSMIC RHYTHMS

by Alethea Hunt

W

hat an astrologically active month ahead! At the outset of March, be on the lookout for unexpected luck and surprising opportunities as Jupiter in Leo and Uranus in Aries make contact for the second time since fall of 2014. Any self-initiated changes can work out quite favorably now. In this spirit, you might consider making your new mantra/affirmation, “Change is good.” This is a time to expand your heart center and tap into your creativity and talents.

A Virgo Full Moon on the March 5 calls attention to physical and emotional health, which is perfect timing with all the globally transformative energies swirling around in March. This lunation could serve as a cosmic cue for a restorative “time out” so you can focus on physical and emotional wellbeing. This moon’s contact to Pluto highlights the regeneration process and, like a lizard that drops its tail when distressed, sometimes it’s helpful to focus on letting go. In some cases, it can even be a matter of survival. There’s also a compartmentalization factor to this moon that can help you deconstruct any issues you may be dealing with to break them down into smaller, more easily-digestible components. An emotional analysis may be helpful now.

The final contact between Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn occurs March 16. The prolonged exchange between this “mover and shaker” duo has been grinding out over a period of roughly three years. The primary takeaway: Pluto in Capricorn has shown the corrupt side of things you’ve used to provide you with a sense of order, normalcy, protection and security. You’ve come to discover you may have actually been manipulated and controlled by things like scarcity consciousness and feelings of fear, inadequacy and lack, into remaining in outdated situations preventing you from breaking new ground essential to your evolution. Uranus in Aries has given you that collective “push” needed to make immediate change – that active, sudden, sweeping energy is exactly what you need to overhaul some aspects of your lives during the last few years. If you experience any further shakeups in or around mid-March, it’s helpful to bear this in mind and try to reframe “uncertainty” as “possibility.” With Pluto, you learn to let go; with Uranus, you learn there’s a higher order at work.

Lastly, a Pisces New Moon Solar Eclipse takes place on the Vernal Equinox (March 20). This lunation occurs on the very last degree of the zodiac and seems to herald the end of an epoch.

What are you willing to release as you step into this new era?

The macro-view of this lunation coupled with the transition from winter into spring encourages you to look at cycles of endings and new beginnings. Remember that even if you should find a chapter closing, it’s never linear; it always circles back around again.

A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.

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displayadvertiserindex Aqua-Scapes LLC 36 Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard 32 Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 13 Avacen Medical 71 Awaken Wellness Fairs 3 BarekMed 17 Judith Barr 40 Beyond Touch/ Roberta Russell 21 Big Brothers Big Sisters 15 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical 2 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental 2 Chamomille Natural Foods 59 The Clean Bedroom 5 The Cleanest Touch 11 CLH Counseling/ Cynthia Haupt 32 The Common Bond Market 13 Compassionate Care of CT 11 CT Headache & Migraine Center 9 DermaClear 69 Dog Gone Smart 54 Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine 27 Embody the Sacred 24 Eyecare Associates 21 Final Journey LLC 54 Fine-Light/Westport Chiropractic 26 Finger Lakes School of Massage 23 Debra Gibson, ND 8 The Graduate Institute 72 Eliana Grubel 43 Hands & Paws Reiki for All 39 Healthy Choice Mattress 15 Higher Brain Living Westport 63 Jill Hill 58 Housatonic Valley Waldorf School 14 Hunter Healing Hands 29 Ifloat 19 Insight Counseling 25 The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 45 Izzi B’s 42 Kindred Spirits 21 Kure Spa 7 The Last Resort 52 Beth Prins Leas 19 Lipo-Light/Westport Chiropractic 17 Liver Medic 71

J.A. McDermott Horsemanship 29 Mind-Body Transformation 41 Mrs. Greens Natural Markets 40 Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales 4 Natural Awakenings’ Green Powder 71 Natural Health & Wellness Center 24 Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 43 Nature’s Way Natural Foods 58 Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic 55 Olivette 30 Robin Ordan, LMT 30 Robin Ordan, LCSW 29 Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc 28 Pangaea Massage 24 Passage East Boarding Kennels 57 Patricia’s Presents 71 PearTree Salon 30 Personal Wellness Center/ Sage Osa 22 Prescription4Wellness/ Mary Gilbertson 29 Ridgefield Playhouse 38 Salon Aponte 32 Shalva Clinic/ Ellen Lewis, ND 12 Simple Scallion 43 Victoria Shaw, PhD 11 Soul Centered Healing/ Danielle Joffe Hampton 19 Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli 20 Sticks & Stones Farm 30 Juliette Storch 18 Synergy Salon 20 TLC Dog Trainer 54 Total Life Care Center 19 Total Wellness Connect 26 Touch of Sedona 22 Transformation for Life 59 Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 10 University of Bridgeport Clinics 22 US Spiritist Council Symposium 12 Valley Vet Hospital 56 Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND 16 Westbrook Nature School 26 Westport Farmers’ Market 43 Whole Foods Market 51 Xlear 49 Yoga Culture 36

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