Natural Awakenings Fairfield County November 2011

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET feel good live simply laugh more

FREE

The Economics of

HAPPINESS for People & the Planet

10 Steps to Abundance

Inspiring Tips for Joyful Living

CHIROPRACTIC

It’s More Than You Think

November 2011 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

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FAIRFIELD A Simple Healthy Life, LLC Alexandra Kelemen, LLC Angelic Healing Center Camillo Health & Fitness Caroline Temple, MSW, LCSW David Goldsmith, LCSW Dew Yoga Dr. Deb Bossio, ND Dr. Henry Sobo, MD Dr. Kimberly Embry, DC Dr. Leonard Kundel, DDS Dr. LuAnn Moratto, DC Dr. Michael Gazsi, ND Dr. Sherry Stemper, ND Dr. Stacy Raymond, PsyD Eco Certified Skincare Elisabeth J. Levy Photography Fragrant Offerings Greenwich Holistic Medicine Greenwich Wellness Gumdrop Swap Kids Boutique In Balance Fitness Ingri Boe-Wigaard, LAc Janet Luongo Karen Drena Kelley Hopkins-Alvarez Lori Rafalof Lotus Gardens Yoga School Luciana Walker Massage Works Message from Angels Meta-Consciousness Journeys Mindy Kannon Move2Wellness North American Power Energy Om Sweet Om Healing Pat Ting, LAc Peace Tree Desserts Power of Avatar Ridgefield Salon & Spa Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute Sandra Eagle, LCSW Senior Helpers Sergiana Bruno, LMT Sharon Cravens Smart Comfort Energy Solutions Take Time Relaxation Center Tracy Franzen, LMT Trillium Architects Turning Point Reiki White Jade Wellness Withinsight NEW HAVEN & LITCHFIELD Alison Birks Green & Global Media, LLC Impressions Services June Can Channel Lifetime Health

WESTCHESTER A Healthier You, LLP Amy Reissner, RN Anton Bluman Birth of Venus Yoga and Healing Blum Center for Health Body Sculpt by Karen BodyCures Bonnie’s Herbals Clean Plates Complete Nutrition Dennis Winge Dr. Dziedzic & Dr. Dziedzic, LLC Driftwood Gallery Eastgate Acupuncture Energy Healing for the Mind, Body & Spirit Events to Remember EVENTually Green Gentle Growth Therapeutic Services Gentle Yoga with Sandra Holistic Health Care Hudson Valley Chiropractic InsightOasis.com Integrative Med Solutions Izumi Family Chiropractic & Wellness Jade Song Healing Jeanne Shanin, MFA Josie’s International School of Dance Kailo Center for The Healing Arts Laughing Hearts Yoga Le Petite Spa Linda Richichi Melinda Martin Michael Rosenbaum Natural Neda Organizing & Productivity Solutions Our Love Yoga Pamo Healing Reflexology for Life Reiki Grace Rye Health & Fitness Stern Chiropractic & Integrative Stern Chiropractic & Wellness Center Sun Blue Energy Success Coaching & Hypnosis Thelma Jones, MD Woman’s Center for Holistic Healing Westchester Healing Art Yoga on Lake Rippowam PUTNAM Denise Bowler Integrative Psychotherapy Liberation Yoga & Wellness Center The YogaScape and Spa Search Light Medical SoundEarth, LLC Wholistic Physical Therapy

HARTFORD A Passion For Connection A Stairway to Heaven Alchemy & The Mamalution Apple Rehab Sport and Spa – Avon Balance Massage Therapy, LLC Bill Klar, Healthy Living Chiropractic Health Center of Bristol ChiroWorks Circle of Life Holistic Health Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies Curative Touch Massage Deborah Henderson, Reiki Eagle’s Fit Choice Earthturns.com Earthwise Organic Landscaping Ellen Palmer Wellness Emei Qi Gong/Zen Shiatsu, Pat Bolger nlightened Professionals, Robin Clare Essence of the Earth Evelyn Wellness Fun & Fit Fundamental Earth Giroux Martial Arts Granby Village Health Harrington’s Organic Land Care, LLC Humane Healing Hands Therapeutic Massage Hypnosis Research Institute Integrative Health Coaching Jitters Cafe, Heaven On Earth Books & Gifts Kundalini Yoga Connecticut, Jasdeep Kaur Medical Arts Health & Nutrition Center Meg’s Inspirations Mind Matters Hypnosis Center PANACEA - Healing for Body and Sole Pack Tracks Country Club Physical and Integrative Medicine Associates Professional Therapeutic Massage, LLC Radiant Yoga Ravenswood Natural Health Ravenwood Holistic Wellness Center Rev. Liz Swearsky-Energy Balancing Services Sacred Rivers Yoga Sharon Sklar Rolfing Silver Dragon Tai Chi & Qi Gong, LLC Super Natural Market, Inc Teach Art 2 Me The Center for Wellness The Nourishing Tree Therapeutic Massage Valley Yoga & Healing Center Wholeness with Linda Wu Healing Center - Vera Reed, LMT Your Yoga Whole Health Therapies Teri Cummings-Health Coach & Gluten Free Specialist Tina O’Dannel - Reconnective Healing & The Reconnection Trinity All Natural Wellness Within, Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching

NATURAL HEALTHCARE ALTERNATIVES FOR YOUR FAMILY Be Allergy Free, Perhaps Even for Life!

Family-Based Chiropractic Care Specializing in infants, children & pre and post-natal women During pregnancy research shows chiropractic helps: • Eliminate back & pelvic pain • Sciatica • Headaches • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Help babies who are breech turn into a better position for delivery

For children research shows chiropractic helps: • Ear infections • Asthma and allergies • Scoliosis • Colic • Reflux • ADHD • Sports injuries • Torticollis

Seasonal, food & environmental allergies CAN be eliminated: Conditions like eczema, gastric reflux, IBS, sinus conditions and digestive problems are often due to food & chemical allergies.

A revolutionary, noninvasive, child friendly technique is available to eliminate food, environmental and other sensitivities. It is used together with: • Computerized allergy testing & elimination without medication or shots • Enzyme therapy, including nutrition and proper diet • It enhances immune system function & assists the body in the natural healing process.

Visit allergyEliminationNorwalk.com for more information and a

FrEE E-Book Download:

Call Dr. riSa M. SloVES 1 of only 7 chiropractic physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Pediatric and Maternity Care.

Certified in the Webster and Bagnell breach turning techniques.

“How To Stop Suffering From Food Sensitivities, ‘Allergies’ and Digestion Problems”

Call Dr. Mark JoaChiM for a complimentary consultation.

Over 10 years experience as an Advanced BioSET Practitioner.

ASSOCIATES IN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC AND NATURAL HEALTH CARE, P.C. 156 East Avenue, Norwalk • www.ctchiropractic.com • (203) 838-1555

Listening and Caring Wouldn’t you prefer a doctor who makes time for both?

Naturopathic Medicine Services Offered:

General Family Medicine Acupuncture Dr. Susan Rzucidlo, ND

Facial Rejuvenation– “The Natural Facelift” Pediatrics

Diet & Nutritional Counseling

Anthem, BC/BS, Oxford, Aetna insurance accepted

Botanical Medicine

Conditions Treated: Allergies Arthritis Diabetes Heart Disease PMS Chronic Pain Any many others…

The Center for Naturopathic Medicine, Inc. 3335 Main Street, Stratford • (203) 377-1525

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Now For B Open usine Intro s s ducin gN ne

a for a w websto tural Awa ll of y re. Sh kenin o o u p onl gs’ for h r fav ine orite ealth ...... y p rodu lifest . . . . . . a he cts y ...... a l e l t s h . a . y www . . . . . . . . . . . plane nd .... t. .n

aweb . . . . . . . . . . store . . . . . . . . . . . .com . .

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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

Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut Danbury, Norwalk, Stamford

877-618-2533 www.rmact.com

28 Supporting Universal Prosperity

A Peaceful Perspective Occupies Wall Street

by Meredith Montgomery

mind body baby

33 10 Steps to Abundance But Will There Be Enough?

by Carolyn Blakeslee

34 38

34 Economics of Happiness: The New Economy

Changing the Rules to

Benefit America’s People

by John de Graaf and Linda Sechrist

38 Empower Local

Businesses to Strengthen Local Economies

Success Tips from Advocate

Fertile yoga, acupuncture, nutrition counseling and support groups combined with specialized fertility care.

Michelle Long

by Brian Clark Howard

We’re here when you’re ready...

Lives Regression:

A Journey to the Afterlife

by Maria C. Castillo

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44 Aligning For Fitness

Chiropractic Care Prevents Injury, Boosts Performance

by Linda Sechrist

2011 Chiropractic Supplement

46 Life Between

47 Happy Holidays to You

48

Mood-Boosting Health Tips

by Kim Childs

48 Calming Anxious Kids

Six Ways to Ease Upsets

by Elisa Bosley 6

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9 newsbriefs 18 communityspotlight 22 healthbriefs 24 24 globalbriefs 28 actionalert 33 inspiration 38 wisewords 40 greenliving 44 fitbody 47 healingways 48 healthykids 50 calendar 57 classified 58 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203.885.4674 or email FFCadvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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November 2011

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Managing Editor Carolyn Aversano Editors Patricia Horan Nancy Cohen Cris Ann Mulreed Design & Production Erica M. Mills Sales & Marketing Carolyn Aversano Joseph Pacelli Leana Cipolla

Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Phone: 203.885.4674

his month’s theme on Local and Personal Economy redefines our measure of success, helping us to transition from a focus on money and material things in order to daily experience a more fulfilling, “richer” quality of life.

Annual incomes can fall away, houses can be foreclosed upon, cars can be repossessed. These are not the sustainable gauges of our worth or a good life, although we’re so often Carolyn Aversano led to believe otherwise. I have been—and at times still get — caught up in the rat race of accumulation; of valuing achievements based on how much money I have made and the extent of stuff I can afford.

Yet, I have discovered along the way that the more I have accumulated, the more cluttered my life—and my house—have felt. The more things I gather to support my lifestyle, the more shackled I feel by them.

These days, when I think of my life’s successes, I consider abundance, rather than bank accounts. While I work to provide for my family, that is just one piece of the much larger, more sustainable picture. Instead of dwelling in a place of overwhelming, concerned by what does not yet seem to be happening in my life, I am striving to shift to a daily affirmation that I live an amazingly abundant life.

When I turn my gaze toward abundance, I can better experience the gratitude attitude, and of course the gratitude attitude paves the way for greater abundance!

When I stop measuring myself by traditional societal standards, I can see that I am already successful… I am already there. In fact, there’s a great song, “I’m Already There”, that was played at the end of last season’s American Idol episodes. It’s been playing through my head all year long and I’ve come to recognize it’s purpose in residing there, as a sensory reminder to appreciate all that I have, and to get back on track when I’m not so appreciative.

As we talk about personal, national and global economics, let’s watch our thoughts and our language and bring a far broader definition to the word “wealth.”

I invite you join me now in expanding our individual and collective vision of wealth, prosperity and abundance, by making it accessible every day.

Fax: 203.516.2392 Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

We all have a hand in creating the community

eNaturalAwakenings.com © 2011 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

Natural Awakenings is printed on post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based ink.

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newsbriefs

Now

New Awakening Woman Process Groups

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here is a spirit within us calling us home. We are the ones we have been waiting for, “ wrote June Jordan.

This fall, Teresa Bulit-Gordon, CCEP is offering several Women’s Process groups, feeling that women have lost their vital connection to themselves and are being called to remember and awaken to the deep feminine energies within. The doorway to the Awakened Woman is not through the mind, but through the inner landscape of the body, feelings and emotions, she says. Through the use of Core Energetics—an integrative Body-Centered Therapy using movement, breath work, and other awareness techniques— and conducted within the powerfully nurturing container that the women’s group provides, participants will feel, dance, laugh, scream and cry in order to open to Teresa Bulit-Gordon the deep yearning of their hearts. By diving into the deepest parts of themselves, women will experience a stronger connection to themselves and others; they will uncover and express their unique feminine gifts, claim their authentic voices and ultimately expand and transform into the fullness of who they are. This work is highly experiential and will be facilitated within a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment, with mutual risk-taking and intimate sharing. Teresa is a Certified Core Energetics Practitioner with a private practice in Greenwich and New York City. She is currently on the staff of the Institute of Core Energetics and The New York City Living Core Program. She is also an ordained interfaith minister.

in Monroe, CT

INTERFAITH SERVICES AT:

ARC Sacred Center

THE ALLIANCE FOR RAISING CONSCIOUSNESS=

"Clear Mind, Strong Body, Grateful Soul"

NOVEMBER INTERFAITH SERVICES: Sunday, Nov. 6, 10 AM - 12 PM Sunday, Nov. 20, 10 AM - 12 PM

For more information, contact Teresa Bulit-Gordon at 203.570.2876 or email tbul1@optonline.net. Visit AwakenToYourCore.com. See ad pg 50.

NOVEMBER HOSTED EVENTS:

Join the Run for America’s Natural Doctors

S

pearheaded by Dr. Dennis Godby, naturopathic doctor and long distance runner, The Run for America’s Natural Doctors is a pilot project to introduce “naturopathic medicine” into the national vocabulary and to make “naturopathic doctor” a household term. On November 17, The University of Bridgeport will host Dr. Godby, his sons Isaiah and Jeremiah, and his nephew Jonas Ely at the culmination of their 3,250-mile transcontinental run. They will have crossed the United States on foot, with support crew in tow, in an effort to draw attention to the need for expanded state licensure, encouraging more comprehensive insurance coverage. The supporting public is invited to join the Run during its last leg, and encouraged to donate to the Run for America’s Natural Doctors. All are welcome to attend the Health Fair to be held at the same location.

The Runners will arrive from noon to 1 p.m. at the University of Bridgeport’s Wheeler Recreation Center, 400 University Avenue, Bridgeport. The Health Fair will be held at the same location between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Supporters can sign up on the website, TheRun.org to receive information via newsletter as well as to donate or register to join the run during the last leg. See ad pg 17.

Reiki Level One Training-Nov. 6 Healing Circle-Nov. 10 Past Life Workshop-Nov. 11 Women's Self Defense-Nov. 16 Angel Workshop & Readings-Nov. 18

DECEMBER SAVE THE DATE: Grand Opening Celebration-Dec. 3 Healing Fair-Dec. 11 Interfaith Service-Dec. 18

For more information about services and events please visit:

www.arcsacredcenter.org or contact us at:

458 Monroe Turnpike Monroe, CT 06468 203-268-1ARC (1272)

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...

naturally.

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD

Are you tired of being tired, unable to sleep, distressed by your dry skin or hair loss – unable to lose weight, irritable, depressed or anxious, experiencing muscle pain?

You may have an undetected nutritional or hormonal imbalance.

Call 203-324-4747 for an appointment with a Board Certified, Georgetown trained MD who is interested in treating you… Naturally.

22 FIFTH STREET• SUITE 201 • STAMFORD, CT • 06905

203-324-4747 – GoToDrDoyle.com

Norwalk Classes on Unity Principles

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he Unity Center for Practical Spirituality in Norwalk announces the continuation of a thirteenweek series on the Unity Principles that was begun in October. The class will continue from November 6 to January 8, 2012, and will be taught

by Rev. Shawn Moninger. The series has been inspired by a book, The Unity Principles. In the Unity teachings, “principle” is another term for “fundamental truth.” “In these times,” says Rev. Moninger, “when so many are looking to the appearRev. Shawn Moninger ance of lack as if it is their reality, it is even more vital to look instead at the real state of things, and to the possibility of good that exists in all situations.” The principles dealt with in the study series include Pure Potentiality, Believing and Knowing, Abundance, Attraction, Righteous Self-Interest, Love and many others.

Dates for the study sessions are November 6, 13, 20 and 22; December 4, 11, 18 and 25, and January 1 and 8. The Unity Center for Practical Spirituality is at 3 Main Street, Norwalk.

Phone 203.855.7922. Email RevMrShawn@aol.com or visit UnityCenterPS.org. See ad pg 38.

Free Lectures at CT Center for Change

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Carol A. Shear BNRN

Life & Integrative Health Coach Trumbull, CT

203-452-8421 carol.shear@gmail.com RiseUpCoaching.com

• beautiful, organic hair color • 100% gray coverage • vegan straightening/smoothing treatments • certified-organic haircare products • contemporary hair cuts & styling

203.966.5655 - SynergySalonNC.com 53 East Ave. New Canaan, CT

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he CT Center for Change’s free Fall health and wellness lecture series that began in September is continuing through December. Upcoming topics include: “Reiki and Reconnective Healing” on November 15 with Renee Simon, MS, CNS and JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT. Learn more about these two powerful healing practices that can help with stress reduction, immune system support, pain relief and physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. “Reduce Stress” on December 8, with Ronald Raymond, PhD, ABPP and Doris Raymond, MS, will focus on cutting-edge strategies and self-empowerment tools for reducing stress and improving health and wellness.

All lectures are from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Center, 38B Grove Street, Ridgefield. Space is limited, so call to reserve your seat: 203.431.9582. For more information about the topics and presenters in the Fall lecture series, visit CtCenterforChange.com. See ad pg 62.

Taking the Guesswork Out of Wellness

Four New ProMindful Workshops

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ennifer Hanley, founder of JHWellness, announces a breakthrough bio-communication technology, “an extremely powerful and effective tool that can evaluate the stress of each of the body’s systems, identify the underlying cause of stress in each of these systems, and pinpoint the exact remedies that will bring the body back into balance. It allows us to communicate with the body. Rather than guessing what will bring a body back into balance, we can test the body to see which foods, supplements, and/or natural remedies are most compatible with it.” This cutting-edge technology performs an assessment called a Bio-Survey, allowing Hanley to measure the energetic stress of organs and systems, identify hidden stressors such as bacteria, viruses, candida, heavy metals, chemicals, EMFs, as well as identify food and environmental sensitivities, and pinpoint specific remedies to bring the body back into balance.

By combining quantum physics, biology, and information theory, this technology provides an interface between living things and computers, allowing them to talk to each other.

For more information, visit JHWellness.com or phone 203.716.1727. Email Info@JHWellness.com. See ad pg 50.

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lex Nason, co-founder of ProMindful, Inc., announces four new workshops. The first, “Beating Cancer and Chronic Illness Gently,” is both an introduction to various integrative holistic health and wellness resources for people with cancer or chronic illness and an opportunity for attendees to share their own most powerful integrative holistic health and wellness resources. The second 90-minute workshop is “Meditation for Beginners,” for both beginners and experienced practitioners, and includes a brief introduction and the experience of several different 10-to20-minute meditations of varying kinds. The third 90-minute workshop is “Mindfulness Training,” exploring mindfulness as it relates to stress, diet, and exercise, combining lecture, Q&A, sharing, and direct application of various techniques.

The fourth 90-minute workshop is “The Alternative Love Exchange,” a forum for people seeking an alternative to society’s current stress reduction, diet and exercise modalities, who love mindfulness and holistic health and enjoy exchanging their valuable experiences and knowledge with the rest of the group. Alex Nason has studied yoga, meditation, and healing arts with numerous masters for more than a decade. He is on the Stewardship Council of the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck, NY. Email Alex Nason at Alex@ProMindful.org or call 203.856.5299.

Visit ProMindful.org. See ad pg 62.

Have news to share?

Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit News Briefs. Deadline: November 5

HVWS OpenHouse_7.5x3.25_4C_NatAwake_Nov2011_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 10/10/11 9:19 PM Page 1

OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday, November 15 at 7:00pm

Walk through grades 1 - 8 with faculty and alumni. Experience the unique curriculum that integrates the arts into every academic subject.

Please RSVP: 203.364.1113 40 Dodgingtown Road Newtown, Connecticut 06470 203.364.1113 • www.waldorfct.org Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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Onus Tribus ~ Onus Domus

A Holistic Healing & Education Center

A Serene Idea at Move2Wellness

Weight management and Detox programs, Infra Red Sauna treatments, Ionic Foot Bath, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Acupuncture, Voice Mapping.

Meditation, Breath Work and Movement. Groups & Individual Classes.

Eastern & Shamanic Energy Healing, Reiki, Cranial Sacral, Flower Essence.

Sundays: Free meditation class and movie for our ONE TRIBE ~ ONE HOME movement towards our divine light .....& love.

SacredDoors.net One Danbury Rd, Wilton 1300 Post Rd East, Westport

203 -727- 8685

sudatonic detox, cellulite reduction & slimming system A DETOX /SLIMMING TREATMENT THAT WILL: • reduce cellulite • cleanse the body of heavy metals • reduce fat & body mass • shed actual pounds • burn up to 600 calories • lose up to 5 pounds • improve skin • reduce stress • increase circulation • reduce pain

18 Mill Plain Road • Danbury, CT

203-743-1132 • www.BodyEssentials.net

H

as the economy, weather, and “multitasking” taken its toll? Feel the need to de-stress yourself? Move2wellness Massage Therapy and Wellness Center has heard you and taken note. Massage Therapy is an excellent way to de-stress, and is even more effective if you add guided meditation or hypnosis. Rob Young, director and Licensed Massage Therapist for the Center, just returned from a retreat held in New York for the Mindfulness Society. “There needs to be a concerted effort to bring Mindfulness to our lives,” says Young. “ Jon Kabot- Zinn and Saki Santorelli have the appropriate concept, and we at Move2wellness want to incorporate as much of it as we can in our own way. M2W will now offer guided meditation and hypnosis along with massage sessions, bringing about a deeper calming and de-stressing experience.”

Move2wellness Massage Therapy and Wellness Center offers full therapeutic bodywork, five-element acupuncture, hypnosis, tai chi, qi gong, meditation, and intensive workshops in the healing arts. Located in a 250- year-old historic building in Ridgefield, M2W has a unique gift shop and relaxing reception area.

The Center is located at 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. Phone 203.403.2522, e m a i l I n f o @ M ove 2 We l l n e s s . c o m .

Visit Move2Wellness.com. For more information on the Mindfulness Society, go to eOmega.org/Omega/ Mindful-Society. See ad pg 33.

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Awaken Wellness Fair Returns to Tarrytown

If You’re in Pain,

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n S a t u r d ay, November 19, the Awaken Wellness Fair returns to the Double Tree Hotel in Tarrytown with more than 100 exhibitors, practitioners, speakers and intuitive readers. Awaken is the biggest, longestrunning, bodyPerry Levenson at the mind-spirit-green Awaken Wellness Fair expo north of New York City, offering the latest information on getting and staying healthy on all levels. From chiropractic screenings and energy healings, to visual art and singing bowls, this wellness fair features cutting edge developments in living green, being lean, and connecting to one’s own spiritual essence. The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes a full day’s lineup of speakers, with CD recordings of each presentation available on the spot. Talented holistic practitioners and intuitive readers have their own floor at the event. The first 500 guests to arrive receive a goody bag with treats and special deals, and a reduced rate of $10 is available to all who purchase tickets online through November 17 at AwakenFair.com. Admission is $15 at the door. Any vendors who wish to reserve the few remaining vendor spots should visit ThePractitioners.com for more information.

The Awaken Wellness Fair takes place at the Double Tree Hotel, 455 South Broadway, in Tarrytown, NY. For more info visit AwakenFair.com. See ad pg 15.

Don’t forget to love yourself. ~Soren Kierkegaard

You Don’t Need to Suffer Anymore Dr. Scott Bender specializes in the treatment of:

• Fibromyalgia • Chronic Back Pain • Chronic Fatigue • Migraines • Headache/Neck Pain • TMJ

• Dr. Bender has helped thousands of fibromyalgia and chronic pain sufferers regain their health using the Atlas Orthogonal procedure.

• For more information about the procedure visit YouTube.com (search “Atlas Orthogonal”) • Dr. Bender is the only Board-Certified physician in Connecticut to offer this highly effective, painless, and non-surgical solution.

“Thank you so much for caring enough and having the integrity to be the right kind of doctor that gets to the root cause. Without caring physicians who listen and aren’t satisfied with the status quo, people like me would go through life being misdiagnosed, put on a needless regimen of drugs, and be living a life of pain and frustration. You are a great doctor!”

- Fran Brennan

If you’re in pain, call Dr. Bender today for a free consultation.

COnneCTICUT SPIne AnD HeALTH CenTeR UPPeR CeRvICAL HeALTHCARe 111 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT

203.967.8888

ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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Integrated Health Center

Grief as a Gateway From Loss to Freedom

A Special Holiday Offer Natural Skin Tightening & Body Sculpting

6 Sessions for $2000 ( List Price $3000 )

Offer Ends 12/31/2011

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Call 203-259-2700 for your Free Consultation

2324 Post Rd • Fairfield • 203.259.2700 IntegratedHealthCenterOnline.com

ACUPUNCTURE & Chiropractic Celebrating 20 Years in Practice MyNewtownDoctor.com

Dr. J.M. Popowich

Neck & Back Pain - Allergies Headaches - Stress - Injuries

$75

(203)304-9037

Evaluation & Initial Treatment

87 S. Main Street, Newtown

Enjoy Friday Evenings from 7:00-9:00 pm at Touch of Sedona’s Monthly Gatherings

A Spiritual Boutique Native American Art – Jewelry – Angels Semiprecious Stones – Books – Goddesses Intuitive Readings Fridays & Saturdays

OPEN 7 DAYS 12:00pm - 5:30pm

First Fridays: Drumming Circle Second Fridays: Chanting/Kirtan Third Fridays: Course in Miracles Fourth Fridays: Varies—call for details $

10 suggested donation

452 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 203-438-7146 • TouchOfSedonaRidgefield.com 14

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

n Sunday, November 20 Lila Taylor joins with Sara Rubin in leading a transformative seminar for those experiencing present or past grief, loss of loved ones, divorce, loss of job, health, location, “empty nest”, mid-life or other transitions. It takes courage to grieve.

Using grief as a sacred gateway catapults us into our next spiritual level on the journey. We can move from loss to inner freedom and greater clarity of being.

Source is always there, even when there is darkness and pain. If we surrender to the process we emerge into rebirth and possibility, finding meaning and purpose for our next powerful steps in life. The group will experience discussion, process work, guided visualizations, Mandala art, hands on healing, and meditation.

Lila Taylor LMFT, is a Conscious Psychotherapist, Hypnotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Ordained Interfaith Minister. She has a private practice in Westport. She uses traditional as well as holistic and spiritual approaches. Lila’s commitment is to facilitate self-healing and inner freedom.

Her intuitive and compassionate nature allows people to work deeply.

The seminar is on Sunday, November 20 from 1 to 6 p.m at 26 Bedford Road in Katonah, NY. Fee: $100. For more information and to RSVP, contact Lila at 203.783.3069. LilaTaylor.com. See ad pg 62.

Helping Cancer Survivors, One Tree at a Time

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nn’s Place, the largest support organization for cancer survivors and their loved ones in the Greater Danbury region, has announced plans for its 2011 Festival of Trees, to be held November 18-20 at the Matrix Conference & Banquet Center, 39 Old Ridgebury Road, Danbury.

This is the ninth year for the popular fund-raising event, which features a dazzling array of customdecorated holiday trees sponsored by area businesses, groups and individuals. Sponsors may choose a theme for their tree and decorate it themselves or have the decorating done by expert volunteers.

All trees are raffled and everyone has a chance to win their favorite tree!

The 2011 Festival will kick off with the Preview Party on Friday, November 18, from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m., with cocktails, live music by Kelly Mittleman, Dinner-by-the-Bite, and exclusive preview of the decorated trees, $100 per ticket. The trees will remain on display until Sunday at 5:00 p.m. The Festival also features The Marketplace, quilts, wreaths and other handcrafted holiday gifts for sale, live entertainment on the hour, raffles, and a chance to win a Jewelry Designs shopping spree.

Festival hours are Saturday, November 19th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, November 20th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 Adults, $5 children and seniors, children under 5 Free. If you’d like to volunteer, email Jackie@AnnsPlace.org.

For sponsorship opportunities, more information, or to register call 203.790.6568, email Festival@AnnsPlace.org or visit AnnsPlace.org. See ad pg 54.

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communityspotlight The Alliance for Raising Consciousness (ARC) Sacred Center Finds a Home

A

RC Sacred Center, a longtime dream of Rev. Christine Guerrera, has found its new home at in Monroe at 458 Monroe Turnpike. Guerrera and Rev. Arlene Powers, the Center's leaders, have a desire to create a space where people can feel a sense of connectedness and unity in a world often caught up in materialism and separateness.

Diversity, freedom of expression, and appreciating one another's gift's are at the forefront of ARC.

seling, healing energy work, and “My Little Light” children's program. As an affiliate of One Spirit Learning Alliance in NYC, the Center will offer interfaith seminary programs and bring well known speakers to the area. Additionally, ARC supports a network of trusted healing arts practitioners and spiritual leaders as a resource for assistance with mind, body and soul issues. Community outreach in the way of creating and managing a network of volunteers to support the Center's members and surrounding communities through charitable donations of time and money is also in development.

The Center provides a space for people of all faiths and backgrounds to gather in pursuit of a spiritual experience that transcends any one religion. The Center offers educational, healing, and enrichment events that will strengthen community and family awareness, individual consciousness and self care.

The birth of ARC Sacred Center is one example of the global awakening that shows a hunger for a new and meaningful spiritual connection and community. ARC is stepping forward and commits to being a part of this global shift. Let’s unite and “be the change we want to see in the world.”

ARC offers a variety of services which include an interfaith gathering every other Sunday, psychotherapy, spiritual coun-

ARC Sacred Center is located at 458 Monroe Turnpike in Monroe. For more information visit ARCSacredCenter.org.

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coverartist Lose Weight Without Diet, Drugs or Exercise “Acu-Thin™ was/is a turning point in my life? I’ve lost 15 lbs so far – and it was easy. No more craving snacks between meals and I literally eat half of what I used to eat at mealtimes. I feel so much better, and the Acu-Thin™ program makes a significant difference in my success.”

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A personal loss led Portka to begin painting again at 30-something for the first time since the tenth grade, a process she says has opened her heart even more deeply. Inspired by Australian photographer and filmmaker Hailey Bartholomew’s documentary, 365 Grateful, about living on the sunny side of life, Portka embarked upon her own project, A Hundred Thank-Yous, creating and giving away 100 paintings to 100 people that have touched her life, she says, “in a beautiful way.”

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ovember is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a reminder that by taking the necessary steps, many Americans can prevent incurring the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 79 million of us have prediabetes and may develop diabetes later in life. New research suggests that inactivity, along with an overly refined diet, impairs the body’s control of blood sugar levels and may play a key role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.

“We now have evidence that physical activity is an important part of the daily maintenance of glucose levels,” advises John Thyfault, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia, whose new study monitored the activity levels and diets of healthy and moderately active young adults. He concluded that, “Even in the short term, reducing daily activity and ceasing regular exercise causes acute changes in the body associated with diabetes, which can occur before weight gain and the development of obesity.”

The CDC reports that 25 percent of Americans have inactive lifestyles, taking fewer than 5,000 steps a day, instead of a recommended 10,000 steps. Seventyfive percent do not meet the weekly exercise recommendations of 150 minutes of moderate activity, combined with a muscle-strengthening activity twice a week.

While regular exercise is crucial in preventing the disease, so is diet. Research led by scientist Patrice Carter, at the University of Leicester, in England, has found that cutting down on high-fat, high-sugar foods and refined grains while eating more green leafy vegetables can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Her study, published online in the British Medical Journal, states that an extra serving of green leafy vegetables a day can reduce the risk of diabetes by 14 percent.

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natural awakenings

THE NEW COCONUT OIL

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ost older studies that gave coconut oil a bad rap involved partially hydrogenated oil loaded with trans-fatty acids. But the unrefined virgin coconut oil now available in many health food stores is not chemically treated and is trans-fat free. Marisa Moore, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, a nonprofit organization of nutritionists, explains that the main saturated fat in virgin coconut oil is lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that can help increase levels of HDL (good cholesterol).

HOME IS WHERE THE HEALTHY MEAL IS

O

ne of the joys of heading home for the holidays is the anticipation of gathering around the table with loved ones and enjoying delicious foods. But we do well to indulge in the homecooked meal experience on non-holidays, as well.

Foods prepared away from home, including fast food eaten at home and store-prepared food eaten away from home, tend to fuel an increase in total calorie intake. Conversely, eating at home is linked with healthier choices.

According to research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill recently published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, both the eating location and food source significantly impact the daily calorie intake of school-age children and may be linked to rising rates of childhood obesity. The study found that the percentage of calories eaten away from home increased from 23.4 to 33.9 percent from 1977 to 2006.

A new study from McGill University, based on data from 160 women, further suggests that a home-cooked meal can prompt people to make healthier and more nutritional food choices. The women in the study tended to reach more for the greens, rather than high-calorie desserts.

Reporting in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the researchers suggest that when we eat at home, emotionally rewarding factors like contentedness may help override our wired-in preference for high-fat, sugary foods. The findings point to factors that may encourage healthy eating such as interpersonal communication, home design and atmospheric cues, including pleasing music, dining landscape and kitchen equipment; all have all been found to induce positive emotions.

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eeling happy in an increasingly troubled world can be challenging, but according to a new study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences, we can evoke more consistent feelings of happiness by holding a positive, nostalgic view of the past and banishing negative thoughts and regrets.

San Francisco State University researchers that studied the happiness status of 750 volunteers point out that although we may not be able to change our personality, we can alter our view of a time in our life and thus create happiness. They concluded that savoring happy memories and reframing painful past experiences into positive ones is an effective way to increase overall life satisfaction.

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

November is Native American Heritage Month NativeAmericanHeritageMonth.gov lists celebrations.

sOccket to Me

A Powerful Plaything Two Harvard undergraduate students, Julia Silverman and Jessica Matthews, have come up with a way to harness the kinetic energy of a moving soccer ball and store it as electric current in a battery inside the ball. The invention, called sOccket, collects enough energy in 15 minutes of play to power a typical LED lamp for three hours.

The device sports its own power outlet to retrieve the juice inside. Today’s sOccket is designed to last for a year or longer; researchers are studying its larger potential.

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Traditional business models have recently experienced many manmade traumas, including the housing/banking industry collapse, world recession, nuclear pollution in Japan, the BP Gulf oil spill and the Massey Energy Company coal mining deaths in West Virginia.

The conventional response is that smarter regulation is needed to prevent such crises in the future, but a growing number of business analysts say the problems go deeper, and a new kind of corporate legal structure is needed that requires companies to operate for the good of society, not just for their shareholders. These new entities, called B Corporations (the B is for benefit), are growing in number, having been adopted so far in Maryland, New Jersey, Vermont and Virginia.

According to B Lab, the nonprofit behind the concept, “Our vision is simple, yet ambitious: to create a new sector of the economy that uses the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. It will be comprised of a new type of corporation—the B Corporation—that meets rigorous and independent standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency.”

Jay Coen Gilbert, a B Lab co-founder, says, “We can’t have a new economy unless we have a new type of corporation. Corporate law actually works against sustainability.”

Its certification effort helps consumers identify truly responsible companies. It also works with private equity investors to help them make better-informed investment decisions. Ultimately, it is pushing for new laws to, “…redefine fiduciary duty and hold companies accountable to create a material positive impact on society and the environment, as measured by an independent, transparent, third-party standard.”

Source: GreenBiz.com

natural awakenings

Community Currency

Banking Freedom

A local currency movement is again emerging as a way to focus business capital, especially consumer spending, on community economies.

BerkShares illustrate the phenomenon. First issued in 2006 in the southern Berkshires region of Massachusetts, more than 2 million of these paper notes are currently in circulation. One hundred BerkShares can be purchased for $95 at one of five local banks and exchanged at participating merchants with the same purchasing value as U.S. dollars.

The program provides consumers an incentive to keep the notes active and shop and dine locally in the 400 neighborhood businesses that accept them. “At the moment, we’re a very sophisticated ‘buy local’ program,” says Susan Witt, co-founder and administrator of BerkShares, Inc., “but the potential to move to an independent currency is built in.”

Networking is key. Some local currency success stories include New York’s Ithaca Hours, North Carolina’s Plenty and Wisconsin’s Madison Hours, but others have not survived, despite sometimes extensive marketing support.

BerkShares continue to represent a relatively small part of the region’s local economy. Witt says: “In the short term, it’s about educating people about local economies. In the long term, it’s transforming the institution of money. We’re not there yet. But everyone knows what BerkShares are.”

Borrowing from a bank has traditionally been a slow, bureaucratic process, often off-limits to people outside the wage-and-salary mainstream, whether they’re starting a business or getting back on their feet. Over the centuries, groups of people have organized various styles of societal credit arrangements to address these shortcomings. Today’s credit union, a cooperative, community-based banking model, still thrives.

In the past 30 years, the rise of microcredit has been providing small loans to people around the world that have no access to traditional banks or could not meet banking industry requirements. More recently, the combination of microfinance and online social networking has resulted in a new phenomenon: peer-to-peer lending, or social lending.

Today, more than a dozen websites connect borrowers and lenders without using banks as middlemen. The economic advantage of such peer-to-peer lending extends to attractive interest rates for borrowers; often half that of Visa or MasterCard. LendingClub.com has surpassed $1 billion in such loans.

“Interest rates turn a charitable relationship into a business relationship,” notes Matt Flannery, who founded the online micro-lender Kiva.org in 2005. “That empowers the poor by making them business partners.” Kiva lenders don’t earn interest on their loans, but the underlying micro-lenders that administer the loans in their countries do.

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actionalert

Supporting Universal Prosperity A Peaceful Perspective Occupies Wall Street

by Meredith Montgomery shift in the financial markets, he decided to mob with more focused intent.

Before becoming a community organizer and founder of City Life Wellness community, in Brooklyn Finno was an investment banker and traded stocks for 24 years. He says, “When I pulled up the stock charts to investigate the market prediction [made by peers in the city’s conscious community], my experience kicked in and I immediately saw that it was exactly right. An economic collapse was waiting to happen.”

This revelation inspired Finno to write a statement of intention for upcoming meditations in support of conscious prosperity for all.

“I wrote two paragraphs on a large

Humble Beginnings Historically, Med Mob participants have been invited to bring their own intention for themselves, their community or the world. But when Anthony Finno, one organizer of the New York City Med Mob group, discerned a coming 28

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Photo: Jessa Johnson/City Life Wellness

M

onths before Occupy Wall Street gatherings began boldly voicing people’s intolerance for greed and corruption in America’s economic leadership, a New York meditation group was quietly acting to consciously support universal prosperity.

It’s called Med Mob, and its mission is to create an environment for people from all religions, worldviews and experience levels to unite in meditation. The movement has affiliates around the world and periodically organizes meditation flash mobs in public places to raise awareness of the power of meditation and positive intention.

According to MedMob.org, a flash mob is, “a large group of people meeting in a crowded public place [to engage] in a coordinated, unexpected, random activity.”

poster about how we can trade intolerance for acceptance, so that we can let [negativity] go and move toward a solution,” says Finno. “I used capitalism as a vehicle to create awareness for letting go of something that is not working, so that we can move on to something that can work better.”

For three months, beginning in June, the New York Med Mob displayed this written intention while they meditated daily during lunchtime in front of the New York Stock Exchange.

Passersby stopped to read the sign and some took part. The revolving group of 10 to 30 participants brought a patch of calmness and peace to an otherwise busy New York sidewalk for an hour each day.

On July 13, the activist magazine Adbusters posted the initial call for the Occupy Wall Street movement on its website: “On Sept 17, flood into lower Manhattan, set up tents, kitchens, peaceful barricades and occupy Wall Street.” For the two months that followed, hype for the planned occupation grew and according to CNN, several hundred people showed up on day one.

Initially, the New York Med Mob decided to wrap up their daily meditations and to stand clear. Finno says, “The online posts were written from a place of fear. They were demanding that the system was wrong and seemed to need an excuse to blame the state of their own lives.” While Finno does not ascribe to this approach, he acknowledges that it has served the purpose of at least generating awareness.

Then, a week into the Occupy Wall Street movement, New York Med Mob organizers remobilized for a meditation flash mob at the park where the occupation was taking place. Coincidentally, the protesters were marching uptown at the same time.

“When we arrived, there was no one in the park, so we had the whole space to meditate,” says Finno. “When the marchers returned, the park was grounded with meditators and there was a [palpable] shift of energy.”

Since that day, meditations take place in the park on Saturdays at noon and Wednesdays at 3 p.m. It has been transformed into, “an example

Photo: Jessa Johnson/City Life Wellness

of sustainable awareness,” according to Finno. Peaceful energy surrounds individuals engaged in art installations, permaculture, music and Tai chi. Med Mob groups and others are currently posting similar events all over Facebook. “It’s well out of our hands now; it’s just happening,” remarks Finno.

Join in this Month A global meditation flash mob is planned for November 5 (see Tinyurl. com/44jrp8x). Communities around the world are encouraged to participate; planned events include Austin, Texas; Los Angeles; New York City; Orlando; and Paris.

According to the global event’s Facebook page, the goal is to inspire, “10,000 people to meditate and emanate a wave of high vibration energy that will shift and evolve our self and every person, business and system in our city.”

Finno believes that the power of meditation for individuals and communities is understated. When asked to define meditation, he says, “It is an opportunity to be at one with yourself, [and] to be grounded and focus on a solution.”

The universalized peaceful actions of Med Mobs are ultimately more powerful than localized, anger-filled demonstrations, because as Finno notes, “Anyone can relate to meditation; everyone is working for a solution to something.”

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For more information, visit MedMob.org or OccupyTheNet.com.

Meredith Montgomery publishes the Mobile/Baldwin, AL edition of Natural Awakenings (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com). eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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fairfieldgreen Be the solution.

Get involved. Support your local, eco-friendly businesses.

Green Greetings The Medium is the Message with Holiday Cards

E

ven with the advent of email, texting, smart phones and animated web greetings, the traditional paper holiday greeting card, wishing recipients a “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah” or simply “Happy Holidays,” still holds a place in our hearts as a way to send, receive, display and even file forever a treasured memento. RawPeople.com reports that 300,000 trees are consumed each year in the making of some 2 billion holiday cards, but appealing alternatives are coming to the rescue.

Purchasing cards made of recycled paper is the easiest way to save some lumber. Look for a local card retailer that is big on labels signifying use of 100 percent recycled content, post-consumer waste and vegetable inks. More unusual options include tree-free paper made from sugar cane and plantable cards with embedded seeds.

Nonprofit and conservation-oriented organizations can fill in the gaps. CardsThatGive.com (Tinyurl.com/3arz7ms) works with scores of them and offers online visitors a legend of icons that explains the environmental and charitable benefits of each one.

The Sierra Club (Tinyurl.com/ 3wven48), America’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental organization, offers holiday designs printed in the United States with soy-based inks on recycled paper. The Greenpeace Natural Collection (Tinyurl.com/4xwabus) also offers ecofriendly cards.

To reduce a card’s carbon footprint to the bare minimum, with the only transport required that expended by the post office to deliver it, make it yourself. One option is to take old received cards, creatively paint over the original addressee’s name and reuse it. No envelope? Just write on the back of the clean front panel and cut it off to create a holiday postcard.

Sites such as CraftStylish.com (Tinyurl.com/dng4z5) offer attractive suggestions for making original greeting cards from recycled materials. All that’s needed are a few household items like paper bags, pencil, pen, ruler, tape, glue and crayons; professional art supplies are not required. Fun stamping dies can be fashioned from a potato. Even sewing skills can come into play to craft one-of-a-kind cards that will be warmly received and cherished for years to come.

Source: Adapted from GreenPromise.com.

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natural awakenings

Reef Requiem World’s Coral in Dire Peril

Good “Car-ma” Awaits...

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he world’s coral reefs are dying. It doesn’t take a trained eye to see the draining of color that results when the corals, stressed by heat due to global warming, expel the algae they rely upon for food that also provides their signature hues. It’s a death knell as well for reef fish.

Reefs have always grappled with destructive fishing practices, sediment and nutrient runoff, coral mining, tourism and coastal development. Scientists say the bleaching process is now accelerating. The World Resources Institute reports that nearly three-quarters of all ocean reefs are at risk of extreme degradation, on top of the 20 percent already lost or damaged beyond repair.

Oceanographers think that all reefs will be at risk by 2050 because of increasingly acidified seas, the result of increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Coral reefs, covering less than 1 percent of the ocean floor, harbor 25 percent of the ocean’s biodiversity and are home to more than 4,000 species of fish. In developing countries, reefs account for nearly 25 percent of all fishing areas, feeding millions of people.

Scientists stress that it is more important than ever to control manmade factors such as overfishing and pollution to aid in corals’ survival.

Sources: The New York Times and U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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November 2011

31

Yoga, Dance & Fitness Add a Peaceful Yogic Tradition to Your Holiday

N

ovember is when we often break bread with family and friends as we express our gratitude. Such an expression of gratitude is also one of the great yogic practices. This, then, is an invitation to incorporate a new tradition into your holidays by adding a simple peace-creating yogic technique to your gatherings.

Before the feasting begins, take time to relax and experience this fun and easy breathing technique with your gatherers, a practice meant to remind us of how deep calming breaths can transform our nervous systems from stressed to peaceful. Among deep breathing’s proven effects are lowered blood pressure and heart rate, improved digestion and decreased over-production of stress hormones.

First, ask all who wish to participate to collect a brilliant fall leaf.

Next, ask everyone to quietly observe their levels of activity, whether they’re excited, deeply focused on a movie or game, and so on. In order to demonstrate, you begin by standing up and, placing your leaf in your upturned palm, gazing at the leaf and taking three slow, deep breaths through the nose. On the fourth breath you will—lightly and slowly—blow on the leaf. The leaf will typically lift off your hand and into the air. Together you all observe as it floats gently to the ground.

Take turns watching each person’s leaf release, then observe the energy level of the room. Invite each to share how they feel after slowing down and focusing their breath. Feel free to repeat this practice as many times as you’d all like, to see just how serene a gathering can become.

Lara Azzarito Ward has brought yoga and wellness to hospitals, corporations and the public for over 30 years. She is the Founder and Director of Lotus Gardens Yoga School and has personally certified more than 250 instructors, who now teach throughout the world. She resides in Sherman with her husband, Will, and family. See ad pg 32.

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Relax, Enjoy &

Steps to Abundance

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by Carolyn Blakeslee overcome your own limitMake a list of what you Take mental ing beliefs, so why listen desire. List your desires— to anyone else’s self-limitnot wants or needs, which snapshots of negativity? Step away imply lack of, rather than good times and ing with kindness. abundance of, something.

By saying/thinking/writing, tell yourself, news sources “I desire [this] or some“Remember this.” Select carefully and set a time thing even better now limit. Read only thoughtmanifesting for the good ful, responsible journalism, which of all concerned,” you create room for doesn’t include most TV news. You’ll even greater possibilities. avoid wasting time on nasty stories that engender negative feelings and harmRemember a situation of abundance. ful physiological responses. You’ll feel If you catch yourself wallowing in a better for it. bad memory or engaging in “stinkin’ thinkin’,” call up a contrasting memory Have the proverbial “attitude of gratiin which you felt rich, beautiful, accomplished, capable—whatever state of tude.” Count your blessings. Think often of all the good in your life. Say “Thank being you desire. you,” more than once a day. ContemAlign with your passions. By taking even plate the areas of your life that are working well; take those skills and apply a small step toward a passion or goal them to what you would like to improve. that nurtures you, you will feel cleaner, clearer and more energetic, thus opening the way for progress. God has a plan Express gratitude. Thank others frequently, with thank-you cards, expresfor your life and His deep desire for His sive emails, gestures of encouragement creation—you—is for you to flourish. and smiles. People always appreciate kindness and good manners, especially Look forward. List your most cherished when civility seems in short supply. dreams and immediate intentions. Better yet, pull pictures from a past happy time and cut out magazine pictures that Smile! When you answer the phone, put a smile on your face and in your represent the good things you desire in voice. Welcome people into your life, your future, and then paste them in a even if it’s just for that moment. Allow journal or on a poster board to refer to them to feel your warmth. When you during moments of reflection. catch yourself frowning with concentration during a task, pause to lift your Streamline your life continually. Let go brows, pull back your face and smile! of situations and clutter that don’t support your aspirations.

Carolyn Blakeslee publishes the North Spend time with positive people. Don’t Central Florida edition of Natural Awakenings (NaturalAwakeningsncfl.com). believe naysayers. You are working to

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Economics of Happiness:

The New Economy Changing the Rules to Benefit America’s People

by John de Graaf and Linda Sechrist

sociated under it.” Likewise, the Constitution of the United States declares that government is to promote, among other things, the general welfare of the people.

Americans are able to achieve a better life, as we’ve proved many times in the past, benefiting mightily as a result of forward steps ranging from democracy, women’s suffrage and civil rights to inventive technological leadership. Although history shows that this has been accomplished primarily by changing national policies, any new economy delivering improved well-being is first brought about largely by active citizens that choose to invest more time in building a nation that reflects increasingly enlightened values.

Everyone’s quality of life—from today’s parents to future generations of great-grandchildren—depends upon individuals collectively working to build a new economy based on the concept of genuine wealth. In his award-winning book, Economics of Happiness: Building Genuine Wealth, ecological economist Mark Anielski explains this new and practical approach grounded in what people value most, which he states is: “Love, meaningful relationships, happiness, joy, freedom, sufficiency, justice and peace”—qualities of life far more vital than blind economic growth and material possessions.

Most Americans are facing their most significant economic challenges in generations. From the hardships of unemployment to the perils of mounting debt, worry about the health of a national economy that depends on consumerism and market success dominates our conversation. But have we asked what the economy is really for?

Preferred Measure of Progress and families; consume, pollute, destroy ince the Second World War, we

S

have been assured that more economic growth is good for us. But is it? By any measure, the U.S. economy, in its pursuit of constant growth, is in dire need of critical life support. Too many people have lost jobs, homes, scholarships and retirement savings, along with peace of mind, in the face of complex uncertainties. Those individuals that have jobs are earning less in real income than in 2001, even though they spend more hours working and commuting than previous generations.

We’ve had enough of the official mantra: Work more, enjoy less, pollute more, eat toxic foods and suffer illnesses, all for the sake of increasing the gross domestic product. Why not learn ways to work less and enjoy it more; spend more time with our friends 34

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and owe less; and live better, longer and more meaningfully? To do all this, we need fresh solutions that engage America’s people in redefining goals for the economy (what we want from it) as opposed to the economy’s goals (what it demands from us).

An Economy Based on Quality of Life

Although an economy based on a high quality of life that makes people happy may sound revolutionary, Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. president, enshrined the pursuit of happiness as a human right when he drafted our Declaration of Independence. Jefferson emphasized that America’s government was, “to secure the greatest degree of happiness possible for the general mass of those as-

natural awakenings

To determine whether our economy promotes the greatest good or the happiness of the American people, we need to understand what makes us happy and how economic policies enhance or thwart our pursuit of happiness; we also need a better instrument of economic measurement than the gross domestic product (GDP).

The GDP counts remedial and defensive expenditures for pollution, accidents, war, crime and sickness as positives, rather than deducting these costs. GDP also discounts the value of contributions such as natural resources and ecosystem services, improvement in quality of life, unpaid domestic work, volunteer work, good health and social connection.

Anielski, in concert with economic

experts such as Charles Eisenstein, author of Sacred Economy, Hazel Henderson, author of Ethical Markets, and Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz, recommends that economic policies aim to boost societal welfare, rather than GDP. All agree that a new indicator of well-being, such as the U.S. Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI), could be used to more accurately measure economic progress.

The Science of Happiness

A respected “science of happiness,” pioneered by University of Illinois positive psychologist Edward Diener, Ph.D., dubbed Dr. Happiness, and other researchers, has existed for more than a decade. The study of what makes people happy and life fulfilling repeatedly demonstrates that the economic route to happiness does not consist of endlessly widening the superhighway of accumulation. Rather, it resides in a host of personal values that are closer to our hearts, as illustrated by the Himalayan nation of Bhutan (population: about 700,000).

For many years, Bhutan has measured its general well-being—as the people themselves subjectively report

it—using a Gross National Happiness (GNH) index. Its government bases policy decisions on how they might effect the kind of happiness associated with contentment, family, community, spirituality, education, compatibility with nature and good physical health.

After years of primary research, the Bhutanese have identified nine domains for assessing happiness: psychological well-being, physical health, time use (work-life balance), community vitality and social connection, education, cultural preservation and diversity, environmental sustainability, good governance and material well-being.

In 2004, the first annual International Conference on Gross National Happiness was held in Bhutan. Hundreds of government representatives, scholars and other thought leaders from more than 40 nations gathered to explore the possibility of making GNH the true indicator of a country’s health and quality of life. As of 2011, a non-binding resolution by the United Nations General Assembly urges that countries now measure their health and happiness, as well as wealth. Sixtysix countries backed it.

Tools to Navigate the New Economy New Economics Foundation: The Great Transition NewEconomics.org Browse NewEconomics.org/sites/ neweconomics.org/files/Great_ Transition_0.pdf.

This independent think-and-do-tank inspires and demonstrates real economic well-being.

The Economics of Happiness: Building Genuine Wealth GenuineWealth.net Author Mark Anielski maps how to measure genuine wealth and create flourishing economies grounded in people’s well-being.

Transition United States: Transition Towns TransitionUS.org Participants in this vibrant, grassroots movement seek to build community resilience in the face of challenges such as high oil prices, climate change and economic crises.

Sustainable Seattle: The Happiness Initiative SustainableSeattle.org Founders provide tools to comprehensively assess well-being, involve citizens and inspire people, organizations and policymakers to take action.

World Café: Real Conversations for a Better World TheWorldCafe.org This application of powerful social technology helps engage people in conversations that matter, offering an effective antidote to society’s fast-paced fragmentation and lack of connection.

We’ve had enough of the official mantra: Work more, enjoy less, pollute more, eat toxic foods and suffer illnesses, all for the sake of increasing the gross domestic product. Why not learn ways to work less and enjoy it more; spend more time with our friends and families; consume, pollute, destroy and owe less; and live better, longer and more meaningfully?

Living Economies Forum: Agenda for a New Economy: From Phantom Wealth to Real Wealth LivingEconomiesForum.org “The old economy of greed and domination is dying. A new economy of life and partnership is struggling to be born. The outcome is ours to choose.” ~ Author David Korten

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November 2011

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Seattle, Washington, the first U.S. city to implement a measurement of life satisfaction, is parlaying Bhutan’s indicators—psychological well-being, physical health, work/time balance, education and capacity building, cultural vitality and access to arts and culture, environmental quality and access to nature, apt governance and material well-being—as part of its own Sustainable Seattle Happiness Initiative.

Spearheaded by Sustainable Seattle Executive Director Laura Musikanski and her team with encouragement by City Council President Richard Conlin, it may become America’s first GNH city.

Initial survey results, intended to spark conversations that matter, will be discussed at future town meetings in Seattle neighborhoods and used to recommend policies for consideration by the city council. Repeating the survey every couple of years will reveal progress.

Interest in a similar Happiness Initiative is growing in cities and towns from coast to coast, such as Napa, California; Bowling Green, Kentucky; Duluth, Minnesota; Santa Fe and Roswell, New Mexico; Bellevue, Nebraska; Portland, Oregon; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Some 100 colleges and universities also are beginning to apply the Happiness Initiative survey.

How to Become Happier

To improve our own well-being within any economy, we need to attend to our security, social connections and the way we balance our time. Choosing to live with less stuff and lighter debt supports a better life with less income but more time, lower stress and better health. As individuals, we can: n Focus more on matters of family and community and on building trust. n Devote less attention to maximizing incomes and more attention to acts of generosity. n Ask our employers for more time off instead of higher pay.

In our local communities, we can find ways to design more relationshipfriendly places such as farmers’ markets, 36

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natural awakenings

where shoppers tend to engage in many more conversations than in supermarket aisles (Worldwatch Institute). In cities, we can call for public and private spaces that facilitate social connection, instead of discouraging it via urban sprawl.

Ecological economist Dave Batker, co-author of What’s the Economy for Anyway? (film clip at Tinyurl. com/3tc9dlk), believes that moving forward requires greater citizen involvement in the shaping of democracy, laws and our collective future. By ditching pundits and talking with neighbors, city by city and town by town, citizens throughout the United States are moving to do this using newly learned techniques such as those offered by Open Space Technology, World Café, Transition Towns, Sustainable Cities, The Cloud Institute for Sustainability Education, and the Institute of Noetic Sciences’ Worldview Literacy Project.

In St. Petersburg, Florida, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and other places, citizens are cultivating a stronger sense of community with real discussions about local issues and economic goals.

They aim to arrive at a clear-eyed view of what citizens really want from the economy.

In St. Petersburg, the culmination of Sharon Joy Kleitsch’s 10-year effort to build a flourishing community through helpful workshops on timely subjects, meaningful conversations and aligning constructive partnerships is reaching a crescendo this month at Beyond Sustainability: Ecosystems, Economics,

and Education, the Institute of Florida Studies’ 36th annual conference, at Hillsborough Community College (Tinyurl.com/3avntte). Kleitsch remarks, “I show up, pay attention and listen for opportunities where my connections with policy makers, educators, nonprofits and community activists can help convene people in meaningful conversations that can make a difference in building a resilient community.”

In Oklahoma City, Sustainable OKC, a volunteer organization working towards community sustainability at the crossroads of business, environment and social justice, frequently partners with the city’s Office of Sustainability, the CommonWealth Urban Farms project and the Oklahoma Food Cooperative (Sustainableokc.org). The grassroots organization advocates shopping locally and sustainably.

Jennifer Alig, Sustainable OKC president, is consistently delighted by the growing number of residents that don’t just attend events such as movie screenings of The Economics of Happiness, but also show up to plant food

to feed the hungry and join Commonwealth Urban Farms work parties to feed neighborhoods using the products of thriving urban farms on vacant city lots. Alig notes, “After events, we sometimes use Open Space Technology to talk about topics that people are passionate about and willing to invest their time in.”

The kind of society that makes for health, happiness, true prosperity and sustainability is one with strong local economies and flourishing communities that includes many activities provided by local nonprofits. It’s one characterized by:

n Salary differences that are not vast n Citizens building a better world together

We intuitively know what is required to create such a society, starting in our own community. What we need is the determination to make sure the economy serves us; rules that benefit all of the people; a commitment to widespread quality of life, social justice and sustainability; and the political will to make good change happen.

n Circumstances in which buyers know sellers

John de Graaf, media and outreach director for the Happiness Initiative, speaks nationally on overwork and overconsumption in America. He recently co-authored What’s the Economy for, Anyway? – Why It’s Time to Stop Chasing Growth and Start Pursuing Happiness, with David Batker. He is also co-author of Affluenza: The All-Consuming Epidemic. Fifteen of his documentaries have aired on PBS.

n Businesspeople that sponsor and volunteer for local activities

Linda Sechrist writes and edits for Natural Awakenings.

n Local small businesses and banking n Farmers’ markets and urban gardens n Urban designs that favor shared walks instead of isolated commutes n Public spaces for social interaction

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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wisewords

Empower Local Businesses to Strengthen Local Economies

of their decisions, instead of from hundreds or thousands of miles away.

Local supply chains also reduce carbon impacts by decreasing transport time.

Success Tips from Advocate Michelle Long

Why is it vital to foster new strategies and support networks for local businesses?

by Brian Clark Howard

M

ichelle Long is the executive director of the Bellingham, Washington-based Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE). The fastgrowing network aims to empower local businesses with their financial goals while they actively contribute to healthier communities and a cleaner environment. Their triple bottom line is people, the planet and profit.

BALLE represents 22,000 independent businesses in 30 states and Canadian provinces. By serving as an information clearinghouse and support center, BALLE is proving that no busi-

ness is too small to make a difference.

Why is it important to foster local economies?

Locally based activity is where we are seeing real prosperity. Today, as we face economic, community and ecological crises, we see bright spots where local businesses are working together to build strong, healthy local economies.

How can local businesses positively affect their communities and the environment?

There is a natural accountability when business owners live with the impacts

Small businesses are stronger together than they are alone. Working in collaboration, business people enjoy enhanced powers of communication and networking, including opportunities to save on smart, shared purchasing. They often support each other through learning, mentoring and even investing in each other’s businesses.

How does investing money locally, or community capital, help?

This aspect is a critical component of a healthy community economy, because too often, when we put our money into something like a mutual fund, we don’t know the impact and how much harm is coming from it. Community capital, investing locally, is much more personal and direct; it can help ensure we’re bringing about changes we want, such as resilient communities and local food supplies. Just going for impersonal financial returns isn’t working.

More local banks are innovating in this area. One example is One Pacific Coast Bank, in the Northwest. New kinds of investment clubs also are coming on line.

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38

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Which examples illustrate how businesses are thriving as a result of new local models?

Several local manufacturing groups spoke of their results at BALLE’s 2011 annual conference. Examples include SF (San Francisco) Made and Made in Newark. These nonprofits build a regional economic base by developing a sustainable and diverse local manufacturing sector.

In Philadelphia, the apparel boutique Sa Va uses local materials in every detail, down to people growing plants for dye in vacant lots. The city has granted the shop tax breaks in acknowledgment that it creates jobs and supports other local businesses.

Which examples illustrate how businesses have reinvented themselves based on new local models?

After attending a BALLE conference, the president of T-shirt maker TS Designs launched steps to localize the entire supply chain to enhance its push for social and ecological sustainability. Typically, a tee travels 16,000 miles before you put it on, but TS now collaborates with North Carolina farmers, cotton ginners and others to go from “dirt to shirt” in 750 miles.

What challenges loom for local business efforts, and how can they be overcome?

One of the biggest hurdles is that many people are innovating, but they are going it alone. BALLE connects businesses to other people, ideas and resources so they can learn from each other and not have to start from scratch.

Another barrier is financing. We have started to bring together pioneering philanthropists that put a little funding in to create the conditions for businesses to proceed from there.

The Cleveland Foundation, for example, recently helped seed a worker-owned laundry co-op.

Most economic development subsidies still favor large corporations rather than local businesses, but some shift when they see studies like those from Civic Economics, proving that the cost per new job is much cheaper by catalyzing and growing local business. In Phoenix, a study by BALLE network’s Local First Arizona showed how the state gets more high-paying jobs with benefits from a local office supply company, Wist Office Products, than from a big box store. Wist also spends more money locally for services ranging from graphic design to legal assistance, and donates more to local charities. In all, the study found that on a $5 million state contract, Arizona was losing half a million annually in economic leakage by doing business with a nonlocal competitor. As a result, the city of Phoenix changed its procurement rules and now buys local.

Brian Clark Howard is a multimedia journalist and the co-author of Green Lighting, Geothermal HVAC and Build Your Own Wind Power System. Connect at BrianClarkHoward.com.

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Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Cranberries (serves 4 to 6)

Roasted squash embodies the essence of winter meals, caramelized onions add a piquant touch, and fresh sage and dried cranberries dress it up for the holidays.

A versatile side dish that complements anything from a weekday family dinner to a lavish holiday celebration. Ingredients with an asterisk (*) are available as Whole Foods Market Brands.

1 medium butternut squash Sea salt and ground pepper 2 medium onions 2 tablespoons chopped sage 4 tablespoons dried cranberries or cherries 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil*, divided • Preheat oven to 375°F. • Peel squash and cut in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds from the center and discard.

Cut squash into large chunks. Coat with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until well caramelized.

• Peel onions and cut into large chunks. Coat with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper and spread on a second lined baking sheet.

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until well caramelized. When squash and onions are done, toss with sage and cranberries. Serve immediately. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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greenliving

T R SHOP SMA

Keep Dollars Working in Local Communities

by Linda Sechrist

T

oday, Americans can tap into one of the best bargains around by voting to support our local and regional economies. By shifting our shopping to locally owned and operated retailers and service providers, we help create and retain area jobs, support community commerce and build valuable relationships and social connections within our community. With every local purchase, we leave the store enriched, having deepened both community social capital and genuine wealth.

Imagine the joy of knowing that your purchase contributes to the dentist supplying braces for the local grocer’s kids, the local insurance agent’s mortgage payment, the local banker’s roof repair and the local roofer’s dinner—all of them friends and neighbors.

The list of benefits—from shoring up local home values to ensuring access to local produce—keeps expanding as your dollars continue to circulate within the community.

Yet, finding a fuller range of locally made items at locally owned stores will continue to be challenging until shoppers demand it. One way to begin aligning purchases with your values is by patronizing stores that offer socially 40

Fairfield County Edition

responsible and fair trade items.

Shaktari Belew, author of Honoring All Life: A Practical Guide to Exploring a New Reality, explains how purchasing goods and services can actually create local community wealth for all if they are specifically designed for that outcome.

“When items are designed to be created and sold locally, everyone involved benefits, from the suppliers that obtain the raw materials through those that manufacture, sell and buy the finished item.

Even the environment benefits.”

Belew encourages our learning as much as possible about purchases.

“Once people are aware of the two vital concepts of localization and design, they will be better able to scrutinize purchases,” advises this designer and wholesystems thinker who focuses on resilient community design. As a Transition US.org workshop leader and one of the primary designers of the Community Engagement Process for Unified Field Corporation’s whole-systems/ quadruple bottom line financial model, this Oregon resident tries to follow her

natural awakenings

own advice. “The Cradle to Cradle C2C certification helps,” she says.

The C2C program is an eco-label authorized by McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry, co-founded in 1995

by William McDonough, the author of Cradle to Cradle. The certification process assesses a product’s safety to humans and the environment, plus its potential for future life cycles.

The “program focuses on using safe materials that can be disassembled and recycled for another purpose or composted as biological nutrients. To date, hundreds of items, from building materials, bedding and linens, baby care and haircare products to personal and household cleaning products, have been C2C certified.

If you plan to ship gifts long distances this gift-giving season, why not use the first C2C-certified consumer product—a U.S. Postal Service packing box? It exemplifies how a complex good design makes a product people- and planet-friendly. All 60 of the product’s boxes, decals and labels, involving 1,400 component materials, had to be certified, but the benefits are big: reduced costs for handling waste and disposing of hazardous materials; plus, the receiver may easily recycle the item with a free conscience.

“Imagine a closed-loop market system in which any number of items made from finite resources such as glass, paper, steel, plastic and cloth are designed to be reused in a near-endless cycle,” says Belew. “Imagine a world of goods designed for easy repair and maintenance, rather than obsolescence.”

Belew, the designer of Will’s Bills, a form of complementary currency, also recommends buying items that have long-term reusability specific to our needs. “My daughter loves a particular curry sauce, which comes in a little glass jar with a screw-top lid,” she relates. Rather than recycle the jars, the family reuses them for storing small things at home. “They’re also the perfect size for single servings,” she says.

Sometimes, just a simple shift in perspective can change an item from trash to treasure.

Linda Sechrist is an editor of Natural Awakenings community magazines.

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Chiropractic: It’s More Than You Think!

by Dr Richard Keuhn

A

s a profession, chiropractic was born in 1895 when Harvey Lillard was healed of deafness by the first adjustment from D.D. Palmer. Early chiropractors practiced in secret locations with hidden entrances because they were often arrested and jailed for “practicing medicine without a license” until 1974, when Louisiana was the last of all 50 states to license Doctors of Chiropractic. Despite these persecutions, people of all ages sought out chiropractic treatment for almost every imaginable health condition because it worked!

In 1994 a multidisciplinary panel appointed by the United States Department of Health & Human Services, Agency for Health Care Policy & Research endorsed spinal manipulation as a preferred treatment for low back pain. Today, the majority of people that consult with a doctor of chiropractic have some type of back pain. Numerous studies and clinical trials have shown the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment in relieving headaches, neck pain, whiplash and many other health problems as well. Doctors of chiropractic also rank among the highest in patient satisfaction because of effectiveness, communication, improved overall health and other benefits. But is the real value of a chiropractic adjustment merely to relieve pain? If so, why did D.D. Palmer try to help a deaf janitor by “cracking” his neck?

Chiropractic is the science, art and philosophy that states the nervous system including your brain and spinal cord, controls the function of every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. The key term in chiropractic philosophy and treatment is “subluxation” which is a motion segment or vertebrae in which alignment, movement integrity, and/or physiological function are altered, although contact between the joint surfaces remains intact.

This is often misconstrued as a “bone out of place” and while there can be a positional component to a subluxation, the most important aspect is how a subluxation affects the function of the nervous system.

Chiropractic teaches that the brain and spinal cord are the foundation of the nervous system and that anything that impairs function of brain, spinal cord or 31 pairs of spinal nerves has a negative impact on health, performance and well being. This basic concept explains how so many health problems respond favorably to chiropractic treatment and why so many patients report significant health benefits and feelings of well being with chiropractic treatment.

The following quote by Thomas Edison shows that chiropractic’s role in health is much more than just pain relief. “The Doctor of The Future will give no medicine, but will interest his or her patients in the care of the human frame, in a proper diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease.” Chiropractic – It’s More Than You Think!

Richard Keuhn is the Director of Lifesource Health Partners (LifeSourcehp.com). He specializes in natural pain relief, arthritis, auto injuries, women’s health issues, sports injuries and weight loss.

DR. SCOTT BENDER, DC

Chiropractic FAQ’s

Connecticut Spine and Health Center Dr. Scott Bender has helped thousands of fibromyalgia and chronic pain sufferers regain their health using the Atlas Orthogonal procedure. He is the only Board-Certified physician in Connecticut to offer this highly effective, painless, and non-surgical solution. Dr. Bender specializes in the treatment of Fibromayalgia, Chronic Back Pain, Chronic Fatigue, Migraines, Tension Headache/Neck Pain, and TMJ. 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203.967.8888 • ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com • See ads pg 13 & Back Cover

DR. KRISTINE M. DEMARCO, DC, MS Black Rock Holistic Health Center

Key ingredients to spinal health: calcium with vitamin D for bone support, glucosamine, chondroiton, hyalauronic acid and boswellia serrata for the disc and joints. Most important is proper exercise for the spine. McKenzie exercises strengthen the low back as well as working the transverse abdominal muscles and gluteal muscles. Dr. DeMarco integrates force and non-force techniques to align the spine. She is certified in Cox Flexion Distraction.

825 Kings Highway East, Fairfield • 203.333.6544 • DeMarcoChiropractic.com and CoxTechnic.com

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). “Chiropractic” comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning “effective treatment by hand.”

Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many disease processes begins with the body’s inability to adapt to its environment. It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.

What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?

Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic.

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments don’t hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only seconds.

DR. LUANN MORATTO, DC The Recharging Station

Chiropractic is grounded in the belief that the human body is connected to the universal life force energy which flows through the nervous system to every cell of the body. Dr. Moratto has been studying the body, consciousness and healing principles for twenty years. She teaches that you can keep yourself healthy if there are no barriers to your nervous system. Her vision is to assist humanity in evolving towards a holistic paradigm of care where the spirit is just as important as the body. Her ability to serve from the heart ensures your visit will be a personalized, unique healing experience.

241 Greenwood Ave, Bethel • 203.748.1941 • TheRechargingStation.com

Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are very safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one.

DR. MARK JOACHIM, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care Dr. Mark Joachim is the first and only physician in Connecticut to have advanced certification in the BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique, a drug-free and injection-free approach to diagnose and eliminate food, environmental and chemical allergies. He also runs the Non-Surgical DRX 9000 Spinal Decompression for herniated/bulging, or degenerated discs, sciatica, and stenosis. Dr. Joachim is also certified in acupuncture.

156 East Ave, Norwalk • 203.838.1555 • AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com • See ad pg 4

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?

Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?

Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic and migraine headaches.

Source: WestportChiropractic.com

Chiropractic Supplement

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fitbody

ALIGNING

FOR FITNESS Chiropractic Care Prevents Injury, Boosts Performance

by Linda Sechrist

W

hat do distinguished athletes like Jerry Rice, a Hall of Fame retired wide receiver and three-time Super Bowl champion, and Lance Armstrong, a former professional road racing cyclist and seven-time Tour de France winner, have in common?

To withstand the rigors and intensity of each of their sports, these champions have both used the services of a chiropractic doctor skilled in chiropractic sports sciences and rehabilitation.

As more athletes discover that chiropractic care goes beyond rehabilitation benefits to further enhance performance, they are coming to rely on it as a tool to support the healthy structure and functioning of their skeletal and muscular system. A 2002 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics noted that 31 percent of National Football League teams include chiropractors on their staff.

Doctor of Chiropractic Jeff Ludwick assists players of the Harrisburg Stampede, a semi-professional Pennsylvania football team. “Improper spinal alignment creates muscular imbalances and nerve interferences,” advises Ludwick, owner of Camp Hill Family Chiropractic, in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. “With properly aligned skeletal and nervous systems, an athlete’s body doesn’t have to work as hard,” which is why team members receive spinal adjustments before hitting the field for this high-impact sport.

Ludwick notes that football is known for stressing hip joints, because when a player’s hip turns out even a few degrees, especially from sudden changes in direction, falling or violent contact with another player, tendons and muscles become tighter on one side than the other. “Chiropractic adjustments anticipate and prevent this, so that the body doesn’t have to waste energy compensating for imbalances,” he explains.

Traditionally, chiropractic care is known for focusing on postural adjustments to minimize abnormal stresses and strains that affect the function of the nervous system and act on joints and spinal tissues. But active exercises and stretches, extension traction and ergonomic education are frequently added as preventive protocols to help athletes avert injury.

Cause and Effects The spinal cord operates like a switchboard for the body, transferring electrical impulses via a network of nerves. It works properly as long as there is no interference between the brain and tissue cells. But when nerve endings swell due to misaligned vertebrae, injury is more likely. Research reported in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine and The Physician and Sportsmedicine indicates that chiropractic sports science helps find and correct the underlying causes, and thus helps prevent and heal injuries.

During one research project, Chung Ha Suh, Ph.D., and his team at the University of Colorado demonstrated that even, “minuscule amounts

of pressure on a nerve root (equal to a feather falling on the hand), resulted in up to a 50 percent decrease in electrical transmission down the course of the nerve supplied by that root.” The resulting biomechanical misalignment causes a domino effect: It exerts abnormal pressure on the nerve root, causes interference in the brain’s impulses to tissue cells, and alters the performance of any muscles and organs that the nerve serves.

Chiropractic Physician Jay Sweeney, owner of San Antonio Family Alternative Medicine, in Texas, uses functional neurology to “send a barrage of neurologically correct signals through the nervous system straight into the brain” in order to promote the balance, stability and coordination that enhance athletic performance and help prevent injuries.

Dr. Nicole Galiette, owner of Chiropractic & Rehabilitation Center, in Cheshire, Connecticut, believes that her expertise as a marathon runner helps to guard athlete clients from fatigue and stress that affect joints as a result of repetitive motions. “In any sport, there is a tendency to use one side, one joint or one movement more than others,” advises Galiette.

For example, cyclists and runners’ repetitive stress injuries most often occur in the knees and back, while swimmers and baseball pitchers experience them in the shoulders. When Galiette treats cyclists that overwork their leg muscles and lean forward in an awkward spinal position for extended periods, she emphasizes strengthening exercises. “Injuries that heal properly are less susceptible to future flare-ups,” she notes.

“Anyone that pushes their body hard needs to be in proper alignment, to keep the muscular system balanced,” Galiette asserts. “Strengthening the muscles around body mechanisms that are most frequently used means that the integrity of the surrounding structures won’t be compromised and cause other problems.”

Linda Sechrist is a senior writer and editor for Natural Awakenings.

DR. JOHN POPOWICH, DC

Popowich Chiropractic & Acupuncture For 20 years Dr. Popowich has been providing personalized healthcare based on your condition and your goals.

Dr. Popowich is a double board certified chiropractic physician and certified in acupuncture. His specialty of functional neurology has helped thousands of patients regain their health and increase their energy. Dr. Popowich provides care for headaches, low back pain, neck pain, stress, digestive problems, allergies and other health conditions.

87 S. Main St, Newton • 203.304.9037 • MyNewtownDoctor.com • See ad pg 14

DR. PATRICK GUERIN, FIAMA, DC Westport Chiropractic

Chiropractic is based on the idea of removing imbalances both structural and postural in an effort to allow our body to heal itself. For this to happen the network of nerves and signals from your brain, down your spinal cord, to the network of nerves must be allowed to flow freely without any interruption. Dr. Guerin has the ability and skill to remove these interruptions or misalignments and allow the body to perform as it was meant to. He not only treats soft and hard tissue problems such as sciatica and joint pain, but he also uses the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression System for disc herniation, stenosis, and degenerative disc disease and treats more significant health issues such as fibromyalgia, allergies, insomnia, and headaches.

256 Post Rd East, Westport • 203.293.7478 • WestportChiropractic.com • See ad pg 20

DR. TOM WORDEN, DC Worden Wellness Center

Dr. Worden believes that the body is the temple to the soul and is designed to heal itself. As health can become compromised by physical trauma, stress, and chemical imbalances (toxic/ infectious/nutritional deficiencies), Dr. Worden evaluates and treats each patient as a whole person and recommends corrective programs to relieve pain, correct imbalances and restore health, naturally. In addition to chiropractic, Dr. Worden uses a variety of natural healing treatments including acupuncture, homeopathy, and nutrition programs. Dr. Worden has been serving the greater Danbury area for over 25 years.

41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury • 203.748.8093 • WordenChiropractic.Meta-eHealth.com • See ad pg 31

DR. RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care.

She specializes in pre- and post-natal chiropractic care including the Webster and Bagnell Breach Turning Techniques, as well as pediatric chiropractic care including cranial sacral treatment for children of all ages and abilities. Dr. Sloves is the Fairfield County Leader of the Holistic Moms Network and the founder of Women of Wellness, a network of prenatal and early family care, in Fairfield County.

156 East Ave, Norwalk • 203.838.1555 • CTChiropractic.com • See ad pg 4 Chiropractic Supplement

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Life Between Lives Regression: A Journey to the Afterlife

by Maria C. Castillo

H

ypnosis is a healing modality in which the conscious mind can get quiet so that individuals can access their subconscious mind. It is a state similar to relaxation or meditation. A special application of hypnosis, called Hypnotic Regression, helps individuals recover memories that can influence behaviors or feelings but are locked within the mind and difficult to recall during waking consciousness. Have you experienced a feeling of “déjà vu” about a place or a person? Do you have recurring dreams, unexplained fears or phobias? Are there parts of your childhood or past events that you cannot recall? Have you ever been curious about your past lives?

Hypnotic regression can transport you to previous times, whether in this or a past life, for the purposes of self-discovery, transformation, and meaningful behavioral, emotional, or psychological change.

Life Between Lives (LBL) spiritual regression, a hypnotherapy method developed by Dr. Michael Newton, aims to enhance the knowledge that one can gain through Past Life Regression. In this approach, individuals go into an 46

Fairfield County Edition

even deeper hypnotic trance, in which many are said to be able to access a fuller, more complete understanding of themselves as a spiritual entity, an immortal soul occupying a body. While regressing clients back in time to access their memories of past lives, Dr. Newton inadvertently discovered that it is possible for subjects who are in a hypnotized or superconscious state to “see” (through the “mind’s eye”) into the spirit world. Upon the death of the physical body individuals return to spirit form and it is that time, between lives, that many have been able to describe in this regression. LBL is not a religious belief or dogma, it is simply a way to access that part of us which transcends time and connects us all.

In this regression, after the individual reaches the superconscious state, they move “backward in time:” first to childhood memories; next to memories of being in the womb; then to memories of a past life; and, finally, into the spiritual realm or afterlife. When recollecting the soul state in this realm, one can connect with spiritual guides and soul mates. It sometimes happens that master guides offer counsel for the cli-

natural awakenings

ent’s current life and provide universal messages of peace and love for all of humanity. LBL reveals the characteristics of one’s soul and its mission in this life and past lives.

Finding one’s place in the spirit world initiates a deep process of healing. It provides an understanding of the purpose behind significant life choices, and how and why our souls live eternally. One session can carry a person through the remainder of their current life with renewed energy, strength, direction, and courage since the healing continues long after the session. The strength of this type of session lies in the individual learning through their own memories instead of having someone else give them the information. A therapist only functions as a companion on the journey. Usually a recording of these sessions is made thereby ensuring long-term access to the information that emerges. Additionally, each person can learn how to contact their primary guide on their own and tap into the wisdom of the masters for continued guidance long after the session is over.

Dr. Newton, a certified master hypnotherapist, clinical psychologist, and author of the best-selling books Journey of Souls, Destiny of Souls and Memories of the Afterlife, founded The Newton Institute (Newtoninstitute.org and facebook) to expand this work. He has since trained other hypnotherapists in LBL and, through the institute, there are now certified practitioners all over the world (and in various languages) providing the experience of this hypnotherapy to individuals who wish to discover more about their immortal soul.

Maria C. Castillo, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in Monroe, CT. She is certified in hypnosis and Past Life Regression (trained by Brian Weiss, MD - BrianWeiss.com), was trained by Dr. Newton and The Newton Institute in LBL, and is a member of the institute and a mentor to students in the institute’s certification process. Ms. Castillo’s past life cases will be featured in an upcoming book by Brian Weiss.

She can be contacted at 203.445.8966, or LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com. See ad pg 62.

healingways

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU Mood-Boosting Health Tips

by Kim Childs

H

appy though they can be, the holidays can leave some folks feeling overstuffed, overcommitted and especially in colder regions, grappling with winter blues. The good news is that the holiday season can be a happier and healthier time with a few strategies, supplements and herbs in hand.

Eat, Drink… and be Mindful “Many of us get down during the dark winter months, so we fight the darkness with festivities and foods that we think will pick us up,” says nutritionist Judith Mabel, Ph.D., of Brookline, Massachusetts. “But most holiday foods don’t succeed because like alcohol, they bring your mood up briefly and then bring it down.”

During the holidays, Mabel advises her clients to keep exercising for better brain function and mood, to avoid sugar when possible and to reduce hunger before parties by eating snacks like nuts, seeds, fruit and cheese or soup.

“It’s also important to eat a high-fiber, low-glycemic breakfast in the morning such as eggs, whole grain cereals or yogurt,” adds Mabel. “That keeps you from consuming too many calories during the day.”

Mabel recommends bringing healthy offerings to gatherings, like hum-

mus or eggplant dip with whole grain crackers or a platter of crudités. “If you are going to splurge, dark chocolate that is at least 60 percent cocoa is a good choice,” she says. “It can lower blood sugar and it has healthy flavonoids and theobromine, which is a mood booster.

It does have some caffeine, however, so be aware if you are sensitive.”

To counteract wintertime vitamin D deficiency, which is linked to depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Mabel suggests Vitamin D3 supplementation in the range of 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily. Fish oils and B vitamins also make her list of mood boosters year-round.

Herbal Help When it comes to managing stressful situations, Bonnie Rogers, a clinical herbalist in Briarcliff, New York, recommends a natural approach to calm nerves. “Nettles help to balance the adrenals,” she says. “It’s a tonic herb that you could use every day of your life, and it delivers calcium to your system.”

Rogers recommends covering ½ to ¾ cup of loose nettles with boiling water in a jar and letting the herbs “drink” a bit before topping them off with more boiling water. Allow the mixture to sit for at least four hours (or overnight) to release the vitamins and minerals, and

then strain the tea and drink it cold or hot, storing leftovers in the refrigerator. “In the winter, I add a tablespoon of elderberries, which are antiviral,” says Rogers. “Sometimes I also add a quarter cup of oat straw, which helps to balance the nervous system; letting the mixture steep releases its magnesium, which relaxes the body.”

Rose petal tea can be a quick fix for anxiety, notes Rogers, who also likes rose glycerite from a dropper bottle. “I often give my herbal students a drop without telling them what it is,” Rogers reports. “When I ask them what it feels like, almost everybody says, ‘I feel like my shoulders relaxed and my heart opened.’” Motherwort tincture is another aid for reducing anxiety, she adds, and skullcap helps with insomnia and racing thoughts.

For those coping with SAD but not on medication, Rogers suggests a combination of St. John’s Wort and lemon balm. “A simple lemon balm tea is wonderfully relaxing, and it helps with digestion.” Rogers adds that tulsi, the ayurvedic name for holy basil, also helps the body to manage stress and comes in tea bags for convenience.

Keep Sleep, Water on the Holiday List Getting adequate sleep during the holidays is essential to fortifying the body and keeping the mind clear, says Dillan DiGiovanni, a certified holistic health coach in Somerville, Massachusetts. “It helps everything. More sleep equals greater energy and less need for caffeine and sugar.”

DiGiovanni adds that a glass of warm water with lemon juice in the morning can lift fatigue and irritability, while cleansing the digestive organs.

“Drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day helps with detoxification yearround,” she says, “and it curbs appetite during a season of overindulgence.”

DiGiovanni further counsels people to limit alcohol, a depressant that disrupts sleep and dehydrates the body, and to guard against holiday overspending and overcommitting in the name of fun.

Kim Childs is a writer in Boston.

Connect at KimChilds.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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healthykids away. If you allow the child to express his or her discomfort, and if you step back and try to gain some perspective, you may start to discern the triggers for his or her anxiety.” Trying to solve the problem immediately can backfire, she advises.

Create a consistent time, such as a snack break after school, to allow a child to download her day. You’ll learn more about what causes her stress and she’ll gain confidence in your care and her own ability to face fears.

Examine yourself

For many school-age kids, performance anxiety becomes an overriding constant. Unfortunately, parents often play a role by projecting their own ambitions onto their kids, notes Geary. Carl Honoré, author of Under Pressure, cites parents’ good intentions, but blames modern forces—including a perfectionist culture, a volatile and hypercompetitive economy and older, first-time

Calming Anxious Kids Six Ways to Ease Upsets

by Elisa Bosley

K

ids today are no strangers to stress. In a media-saturated world, children face scary stuff every day, from wars and natural disasters to divorce and peer pressure. In addition to the mental toll, anxiety affects kids’ bodies, too: A study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that family stress directly compromises immune function and increases the likelihood of illness in children. As a parent, how can we help?

First, take a deep breath. “Childhood anxiety is not a new problem in our society,” says Dr. Anandhi Narasimhan, a Los Angeles physician specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. She notes that all children go through stages of normal fears and worries, and anxieties can show up as stomach aches, headaches, potty accidents, aggression and sleep problems. Here, experts offer tips to discern normal versus unhealthy stress levels and to help a child develop coping skills for life’s inevitable hardships.

Make space

Start by simply listening to your child. “When my children are upset, my immediate instinct is to ask ‘How can I fix this?’” says Dr. Natalie Geary, an integrative pediatrician and mother of three in New York City. “But you need to step back, listen and empathize, without trying to problem-solve right 48

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parents that bring a workplace ethos to child rearing—for conspiring to pressure kids. “What we’re squeezing out is the simple, soaring human pleasure and joy of being a child,” says Honoré. So find ways to lighten up on expectations.

Consider help

“Children are expected to visit a pediatrician for preventive health, and we should adopt the same principle for mental health,” counsels Narasimhan. “If anxiety is impacting a child’s functioning—such as causing him to want to avoid school or public places, showing extreme difficulty separating from caretakers, or complaining of frequent pains for which the pediatrician doesn’t see a medical explanation— take the child to a therapist or psychiatrist [to screen for anxiety].”

When appropriate, Narasimhan recommends cognitive behavioral therapy, in which a therapist teaches the child strategies to combat fears and address certain feelings and behaviors. “This may include deep-breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation and alternative coping thoughts,” she says. A meta-analysis of clinical trials first published in School Psychology Review concludes that such therapy can play a key role in alleviating childhood anxiety.

Unschedule

Speed breeds stress. “Don’t be in such a rush,” advises Geary.

“Whatever you can take out of the day, take out.”

Work out a looser schedule, whether that means limiting kids to one musical instrument or sport or instituting a weekly day of rest, when playtime replaces all homework and chores. Says Geary, “I see a lot of kids coming in with stomach pains or school issues, or they’re hitting others. Nine times out of 10, I feel like saying to the parents, ‘Just take your kids to the playground, sit in the park with them and get really dirty digging in the mud.’ If they did that for a month, they’d be fine.”

Pay attention to food

“If blood sugar drops, it’s a very anxiety- and irritabilityproducing sensation,” observes Geary. “Try to feed children snacks that provide slow-release nutrition, meaning they’re not getting a jolt of hard-to-digest fat, protein or sugar.” Her favored choices include low-fat cheese and hummus, or wholegrain bread, spread with nut butter, an easy-to-digest protein.

Relax

Children often reflect their parents’ moods, so create calm.

“Massage, maybe with calendula oil or something that smells nice for the child, is wonderful,” says Geary. The key is the interaction of the touch and the stillness. Just before bedtime, enjoy a cup of herbal tea together. “It’s more the ritual of sharing a warm drink at the end of the day than actually what you’re drinking,” she says. “They will absorb the fact that you’re spending time with them.”

Elisa Bosley is a senior editor at Delicious Living magazine.

Nothing is more POWERFUL than a BELIEF in what you do...

Natural Awakenings is looking for Advertising Sales professionals.

Part-time position working from home. Must be outgoing, organized, and have excellent communication skills and ad sales experience.

The ideal candidate has solid ad sales experience and a genuine passion for making a difference in the community, looking for a flexible opportunity to earn extra income while enjoying an extraordinary personal growth opportunity. Additional ground-floor sales opportunities for new programs are also possible for the right candidate. 20 hrs/week, minimum commitment.

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calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by November 5th (for December issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Raw Food & Prep Raw into Autumn 6:30-8:30pm.

Lisa Sobolewski and Glen Colello demonstrate raw recipes with an Autumn flavor. Example: pumpkin rawvoli, creamy sweet potato soup. Samples galore! $20. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. Fairfield.

203.292.8190.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 The Natural Awakenings Health & Wellness Expo 2011 5:30-9pm. Featuring over 100 exhibitors, fitness, yoga and dance demonstrations and an opportunity to purchase healthy products, gift certificates and more for the holidays. $10 in advance; $15 at door. Hilton Stamford. One First Stamford Place. Tammie: 203.531.3047.

Is Pain Holding You Back? 6:30pm. Lorraine Jolly of Seeker’s Passage discusses a primary cause of pain and illness, and a natural method alleviates to distress. Free. Canji Healing Touch. 300 Federal Rd, Suite 205. Brookfield. RSVP: 203.518.0097.

Integrative Health Coaching (IHC) 7-8pm. An emerging field in medicine and the behavior sciences, it helps turn sick care into health care by creating a powerful partnership between a patient, physician, and coach. The Graduate Institute.

Bethany. 203.874.4252.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO Fall 2011 Wednesday, 11/2 • 5:30-9 pm THE ULTIMATE HEALTHY HOLIDAY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE! 100+ health & wellness exhibitors, fitness, dance & yoga demonstrations, healthy holiday gifts, complimentary refreshments & parking.

Hilton Stamford. $15/$10 in advance.

Tickets: GreenwichYPG.com Exhibitors: 203.531.3047

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Short Stories with Bill Ziegler 10:30am-12pm.

Also held 11/10, 11/17, 12/1 & 12/8. Participants will read and discuss a variety of short stories that illustrate the characteristics of the genre. Must preregister. Free. Wilton Library. 203.762.3950

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Discover the Joy of Barefoot Running 7-8:30pm.

Authors Michael Sandler and Jessica Lee give an educational and inspirational talk on barefoot

Core Energetics

20%

An Integrative Body-Centered Approach to Personal Growth ♦ Supporting your emotional well being through the expression of your deepest feelings. ♦ Work with your body, movement, energy, breath, and sound to experience the transformative power of living in your truth.

Teresa Bulit-Gordon Core Energetics Practitioner

For more information please visit my website at:

www.awakentoyourcore.com

by email at Tbul1@optonline.net or call 203.570.2876

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running and the minimalist footwear movement. $10. Trek Bicycle Store. 1215 Post Rd. Fairfield.

203.292.8190.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Interfaith Service & Community Social 4:306:30pm. Join us as we explore and celebrate life, love, spirituality, healing and community. “My Little Light” children’s program available while parents attend gathering. Love offerings/donations welcome. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. 203.268.1272.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Yoga Nidra & Gong Relaxation 2-3:30pm. Yoga Nidra is an ancient form of guided meditation that will take one into the deepest levels of relaxation while still remaining fully aware. $30 paid by 10/30; $40 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield.

203.254.9642.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Play and Tea 1-2pm. Have a sip of tea while one’s child plays. Learn about Waldorf-inspired Kindergarten and the Growing Together programs for children. $15. The Clover Hill School. 2 Emerson St. Norwalk. 914.475.9897.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Integrative Health Coaching (IHC) an emerging field in medicine and behavior sciences 7-8pm.

Turn sick care into health care by creating a powerful partnership between a patient, physician, and coach.

The Graduate Institute. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

NATURAL AWAKENINGS

NATURAL CONNECTIONS NIGHT Wednesday, December 7 • 7-9pm Rev. Chris Guerrera will speak about Holiday Consciousness and how to fully experience all that matters this holiday season. Meet like-minded friends and holistic practitioners.

Hosted by ARC Sacred Center. Free.

458 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe.

Limited space. RSVP: 203.885.4674

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Talk with Beatrice Berger, Recipe for Love 2:30pm. Collection of short stories illustrates the impact of love. Berger’s tales share an appropriate resolution to an issue or emotional problem affecting relationships. Free. Trumbull Library. 33 Quality St. Trumbull. 203.452.5197.

Martinmas Celebration 3:45pm. Parents and children age 2-6 years old will construct a simple, colorful lantern, experience a puppet play, sing songs, and carry their lighted lanterns outside into dusk in a magical procession. Free. Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, 40 Dodgingtown Rd. Newtown.

203.364.1113.

Screening: Chow Down 7-8:30pm. Meet Charles, John and Garnetas they attempt to reverse heart disease and diabetes by adopting a primarily plant based diet. Free. Fairfield Public Library. 1080 Post Rd. Fairfield. 203.256.3160.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Kindermorning 9-11:30am. You and your 3-6 year old child can enjoy a Waldorf early childhood sample class: joyful play, beautiful water color painting, seasonal songs, creative movement, and a nutritious snack. Free. Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, 40 Dodgingtown Rd. Newtown. Reservations required: 203.364.1113.

Free Information Session 5:30-7pm. Learn about The Graduate Institute’s groundbreaking Masters degrees and certificate programs. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

Type II Diabetes and You 6:30-8pm. What can I do, can it be reversed? Dan Conte, a Health and Wellness Coach will discuss the issues of Type 2 Diabetes. Free. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. 39 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield. 203.292.8190.

Reiki Refresher for All Levels 6:30-9pm. Reiki practitioners only. Gigi Benanti shares techniques that will help raise one’s Reiki vibration. Included a re-attunement . $35 + $8 material fee. Pymander.

37 Wall St. Norwalk. RSVP: 203.854.5596.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Past Life Workshop 6:30-9pm w/Maria Castillo, LCSW. Learn more about, and experience past life regression promoting mind, body and soul heal-

ing. Maria was trained by Dr. Brian Weiss, author of Many Masters, Many Lives. $60. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. Register: 203.268.1272.

Meditation on 11:11 and 2012 Phenomena 7-9pm.

Louise Olivi, Spiritualist Minister will provide an overview of indigenous prophecies and present cosmic energies for spiritual evolution. $22. Albertson Memorial Church. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. 914.610.5146.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Who Ya Gonna Call? 2pm. Investigating the Paranormal. The nonprofit Connecticut Paranormal Research Society talks about their investigative methods & displays their best evidence. Free. Westport Library. McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4800.

Meet a Wolf! 2:30pm The Wolf Conservation Center introduces Atka, a real wolf, & talks about wolves’ history & role in the environment. For grades 1 & up, with an adult. Westport Library, McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4800.

Yoga for the Whole Family! 2:30-3:30pm. Calling all mothers, fathers, siblings, and family members this special class is designed for children (ages 5-12 years) and adults to enjoy and share together! $15.

Yoga for Everybody. 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield.

203.254.9642.

Fairfield Farmers’ Markets All farmers’ markets feature organic produce, pasture-raised meats, homeade foods and desserts, flowers and local artists.

Bethel Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 9am-1pm June 25 – November 5 Rt. 6, 67 Stony Hill Rd., across from Stony Hill Inn BethelFarmersMarket.org

Authors: Journalists Marvin & Deborah Kalb on the Haunting Legacy of the Vietnam War 4pm.

How the Vietnam War has lived on in the psyches of national leaders & influenced foreign policy. Westport Library, McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4800.

Darien Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 11am-6pm May 11 – December 21 Mechanic St., behind Fire House

Sound as a Path to Healing 4-6pm w/ Cynthia Quintanal. Introduction to theory and research of sound vibration and healing. Practice sounding sacred seed mantras. $35 paid by 11/5; $45 thereafter.

Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

Greenwich Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 9:30am-1pm May 14 – November 19 Commuter Parking Lot, Exit 3 off I-95, Arch St. & Horseneck Ln.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Qiqong for Peace 2-4pm w/ Mark J. Romano.

Practice the ancient art of qigong with movements specifically designed to cultivate peace and lightness of heart. $35 paid by 11/6; $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

New Canaan Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 10am-2pm May 14 – November 19 Old Center School Parking Lot, South Ave. & Maple St. NewCanaanFarmersMarket.net

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Norwalk - Health Department Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 11am-3pm July 6 – November 2 137 East Ave., Norwalk Health Department

CONSCIOUS CONCEPTION SEMINAR SERIES

Prepare you body/mind/spirit for a healthy journey to conception. Enhance your fertility with integrative approaches each week.

• 11/7 Stress & Fertility Panel led by Dr. Alice Domar, national expert in Mind/Body Medicine • 11/14 Inspirational Success Stories & Kristen Magnacca • 11/21 Dr. Paul Epstein, ND and more! $40 at door or 4 for $130. Save 50% with a friend.

TLC 152 East Ave. Norwalk.

Preregistration required. Limitless-Potential.net

Westport Farmers’ Market Thursdays, 10am-2pm May 26 – November 3 26 Imperial Ave., Municipal Parking Lot Westport - Sunday Farmers’ Market Sundays, 10am-1pm May 22 – Novemer 20 Saugatuck Congregational Church, 245 Post Rd. E.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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Coming in December

The Graduate Institute’s 1st Tellabration! 2-4pm.

This family-friendly afternoon features five professional tellers sharing stories about The Creative Spark. Tellabration! is an international celebration of storytelling. $15. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 High School Asperger’s & Other Neurodevelopmental Delays Group 6:30-8pm. Workshop #1: Positive Assertiveness & Self-Advocacy for High School Students. Kelley Hopkins-Alvarez, NCC. $20. 158 Danbury Rd, Suite #7/2nd fl. Ridgefield.

203.948.0938.

Discover Waldorf Education: Open House. 7pm.

A Walk through the Grades (1-8) Our experienced faculty will walk you through the rich Waldorf curriculum, stopping at each classroom to see a display of student work. Alumni and parents will also be there to answer questions and offer insights from their experience. Free. Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, 40 Dodgingtown Rd. Newtown. Reservations required: 203.364.1113.

Uplifting Humanity Simple ideas to celebrate the holidays and create peace in our hearts.

Reiki and Reconnective Healing 7-9pm. Join Renee Simon, MS, CNS, and JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT to learn more about these two powerful healing practices. Free. Connecticut Center for Change.

38-B Grove St. Ridgefield. 203.431.9582.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Spiritual Nutrition: The Food of Life 6:30-8pm.

Modern day Mystic Birinder Bhullar, author of The Supreme Being guides the audience in conscious eating. $21 includes a free smoothie. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. 39 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield.

203.292.8190.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Angel Workshop & Readings 7-10pm w/Pina, Lady of the Light. Learn how to hear and work with your angels. 20 minute private angel readings to follow workshop. Workshop $15, Private Readings $20. Call to register. ARC S Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. 203.268.1272.

Read about it in Natural Awakenings’ December edition

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Awaken Wellness Fair 10am-5pm. Over 100 wellness practitioners, exhibitors and vendors at this fun Body, Mind and Spirit expo in Westchester.

Lectures, demos, and intuitive readings. Doubletree Hotel, Tarrytown NY. Tickets: AwakenFair.com or at the door.

Clash of the Titans 10am-3 pm. Rev. Thomas F. Kearns, M.A. 35 years as practitioner of the Psychic and Astrology predicts one’s future. $45. Albertson Memorial Church. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. Pre-register: 914.610.5146.

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

203.885.4674

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Fairfield County Edition

Ann’s Place Festival of Trees 10am-8pm. Also Sunday 10am-5pm. Benefits: Children Ann’s Place, The Home of I CAN. $10 adults; $5 children and seniors; children under 5 free. Matrix Conference & Banquet Center. 39 Old Ridgebury Rd. Danbury.

203.790.6568.

natural awakenings

The Universal Reiki Plan 11am-1pm. 3rd Saturday monthly. Private Reiki Session (Usui/Tibetan &/or Karuna®(reg.tm ICRT). Reiki &/or Indoors during Fall/Winter. Multiple Practitioners. $10 suggested.

ReikiShare/Workshop 1:15-4pm. ReikiOvertones students free. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant.

Bridgeport. Pre-book appointment: 203.254.3958.

Interfaith Service & Community Social 4:306:30pm. Join us as we explore and celebrate life, love, spirituality, healing and community. “My Little Light” children’s program available while parents attend gathering. Love offerings/donations welcome. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. 203.268.1272.

Manifestation of Spirits Séance 7-9pm. Rev. Thomas F. Kearns, M.A. Certified Psychic Medium and Healer demonstrates spirit communication. $25.

Albertson Memorial Church. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. Pre-register: 914.610.5146.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Seussical the Musical 2 & 6pm. $25 adults; $20 children. Ridgefield Playhouse. 80 East Ridge.

Ridgefield. 203.438.5795.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21 The Littlest Pilgrims 10am. Also held 11/22 at 10am. Grades 1-3. $10. Ridgefield Playhouse. 80 East Ridge. Ridgefield. 203.438.5795.

Play and Tea 1-2pm. Have a sip of tea while one’s child plays. Learn about Waldorf-inspired Kindergarten and the Growing Together programs for children. $15. The Clover Hill School. 2 Emerson St. Norwalk. 914.475.9897.

Intro to Reiki 7:30-9:30pm. Dr. Oz recommends Reiki. Receive a mini-Reiki session. Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. $10. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. Must pre-register: 203.852.1150.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Reiki Meditation with Young Living Essential Oils 7:30-9pm. Any level Reiki Practitioner. Singing bowls, angel cards, crystals, tuning forks may also be used. Must pre-register. $15. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. 203.852.1150.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Introduction to Reiki 9am-12pm. Learn about energy, anatomy and a brief history of Reiki. $25.

Fee applies towards a future class within one year.

ReikiOvertones. Fairfield. Classes, registration or info call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 Natural Awakenings’ Natural Connections Night 7-9pm. Holiday consciousness! Rev. Christine Guerrera and friends show us how to celebrate and be joyful this holiday season. Hosted by ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. RSVP to reserve your spot: 203.885.4674.

You’re Invited Natural Awakenings Magazine FREE Natural Connections Night This month:

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 • 7 - 9 P.M. at ARC Sacred Center 458 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe ARCSacredCenter.org

The ARC (Alliance for Raising Consciousness) Sacred Center is a new spiritual community center dedicated to the exploration of interfaith spiritualism and healing for the body, mind and soul.

Meet ARC Sacred Center’s leaders, Rev. Chris Guerrera, LMFT and Rev. Arlene Powers, who will speak about Holiday Consciousness and how to fully experience all that matters this holiday season. Meet like-minded friends and holistic practitioners. Learn about new and inspiring events and offerings at the Center. Refreshments served.

Each month you will have a new opportunity to: • learn about a variety of healing modalities and eco-friendly options • meet holistic practitioners and green experts • share wisdom and gain more insight into local options for wellness and life balance • engage in an opportunity to market yourself or business, ask questions and share information • be part of a growing community of individuals dedicated to wellness and greener living

To RSVP or for more info call 203.885.4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

53

ongoingevents Taoist Qi Gong and Chen Style Tai Ji 3pm w/ Master Wanf Feng Ming. 4-90 minute classes/ $100. 1018 Hope St. Stamford. Please contact Luis: 203.570.1752.

sunday Choosing Joy Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach. Re-charge, renew, & refresh your relationships and your outlook. Engaging, creative activities and dialogue. By appointment: $50/couple.

Periwinkle Health.

Trumbull.

203.261.7615.

Lecture or Workshop with Mystic Birinder Bhullar 4-6pm. Topics: Happiness, Karma, Sex, Money, Energy, Relationships, etc. Deep meditation work also presented. Birinder is a Sufi Messenger of Truth. $40. Ananda Center. New Canaan. Call Anne: 203.273.7364.

Affordable Yoga 8:30am. Tired of feeling tired, stressed or out of shape? Give yoga a try and see why so many people are hooked. Lose weight, reduce pain, lower blood pressure. Cost. 8/$80.

Interplay Health. Stamford. 203.845.8856.

Meditation 7pm. Led by rotating practitioners.

Free. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield.

203.403.2522.

Reiki Practitioners needed any/every Sunday 10am-12pm. ReikiOvertones held at Home for the Elderly. Fairfield. For more info call Jeannette or Jim: 203.254.3958.

Sunday Worship 11am-12:15pm. Doors open at 10:30am for Silent Prayer and Meditation.

Worship service integrates music, prayer, healing, meditation, inspiration and Spirit Communication.

Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. 203.637.4615.

New Eckankar Class: The Call of Soul 11am12:30pm. 3rd Sunday monthly. Book discussion.

Learn to go inside oneself because this is the source of all Truth. Newtown. Register: 203.417.8434.

monday Pilates Mat Class 9am w/ Megan Bascom, Instructor. Basic level class focused on the principles of Pilates including alignment, breath, and core strengthening. A great place to start or strengthen technique. $20. Black Rock Pilates.

2889 Fairfield Ave. RSVP: 203.335.1987.

Be Strong, Stretched & Center Yoga 9-10:15am w/ Lara Ward. Also held Fridays. Bring healthy alignment to the body while finding the centered calm within oneself. Jewish Community Center. Sherman.

10 classes/$130. Drop-in $17. 860.354.6241.

Group Cycling Classes 9:15am. Also on Saturday & Sunday. Various times thru-out the week. Enjoy different instructors for each class.

All levels welcome. No-Limit Health & Fitness.

1120 Federal Rd. Brookfield. Call for complete scheduling: 203.775.8548.

Svaroopa® Stress Relief Yoga 9:30am, 11am & 5:45pm w/ Mazie. Rejuvenating and bliss-filled (yin & yang) asana and pranayama practice unravels tension, increase circulation, flexibility, energy, enhancing immune system. $20. $150/10 classes.

Catch Your Breath. Fairfield. 203.255.9111.

Children’s Expression Sessions 4:15-5:15p.m.

Playful, creative arts workshops enhance self image and esteem. Ages 8-12. $35/session. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615.

The EDGE Learning System 5 & 6pm. Ages 6-12. Groups enhance the child’s motor, speech, reading, math, social and visual skills improving grades, performance and self esteem. $50.

Total Learning and Therapy Center. Trumbull.

203.268.8852.

Family Karate Night 5:30-6:30pm. June Fagan teaches Kempo Karate to families. No experience required. $20 each or $60 for a family of 4 or more.

Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding.

Please call: 203.938.3690.

The Art of Creating a Fertile Life: Fertility Empowerment Circles 5:30-7pm & 7:30-9pm.

Be supported and empowered through one’s fertility journey. Prepare one’s mind/body/spirit to blossom into ones fullest potential and consciously create the life one wants. 4/$120. TLC. Norwalk.

914.393.9221.

Intermediate Yoga Class at Nu~Yoga Studio 6-7:30pm w/ Sally Grillo. Also on Wednesdays.

Welcome to a yoga class created for intermediate level students. Connect to inner calm and emerge refreshed and renewed.$20. 32-34 Main St. Ste. 6.

Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

The Thought Exchange 7pm w/ David Friedman.

No Classes in August. A support group based on having new thoughts. What if what one’s life just mirrors one’s thoughts? Cost: Love Offering.

Unity Center for Practical Spirituality. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Hope Grows . . . With Every Step

Belly Dance Fusion 7-8:30pm w/ Naima Provo, LMT, RMT. No experience necessary! Learn movements focusing on muscle isolation, core strength, and correct posture. Drills and stretches to music cardio style. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

Honor a loved one in a monumental way.

Inscribe a brick today and help us complete the Timothy Kelly Terrace, step by step.

To order a brick, go to: www.annsplace.org For more information, call Ann’s Place (203) 790-6568.

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natural awakenings

Intro to Yoga w/ Barbara 7pm. Learn basic postures to help strengthen the body and relax the mind. 6 classes/$96. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown.

203.364.0851.

Dedicated to Men, Women and Children Touched by Cancer

Affordable Yoga 7:30pm. Tired of feeling tired, stressed or out of shape? Give yoga a try and see why so many people are hooked. Lose weight, reduce pain, lower blood pressure. Cost. 8/$80.

Interplay Health. Stamford. 203.845.8856.

Gentle Yoga 7:30pm. Beginners welcome.

8 classes for $80 or $12 per class. Jazzercise

Fitness Center, 633 Hope St. Stamford.

203.845.8856. Pass also good for Sunday 8:30am class.

people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Bridgeport. Call for Location: 203.536.4695.

Group Therapy for Men and Women 8-9:30pm w/ Sandra Eagle, LCSW. Begins 2/28. Combines techniques from meditative and psychotherapeutic traditions promoting healing and expanding consciousness. 8 sessions. Ongoing sessions available. 34 E Putnam Ave. Greenwich. Info/fees: 203.550.2111.

Green Drinks Fairfield 6-8pm. 1st Tuesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695.

tuesday Summer Expression Sessions! Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Creative arts workshops. Children’s self esteem blooms through imaginative, no-pressure projects and activities. Ages 9-12 By appointment: $35/session Periwinkle Health. Trumbull. 203.261.7615.

HEAL Support Circle 6:30-8pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly. A peer-support group led by trained cofacilitators is for victims/survivors of emotional abuse or any violence or trauma, the group meets monthly. Brookfield Town Hall. For info call 203.305.2137.

Qi Gong/Reiki Meetup 6:30-8:30pm. Study alternative healing modalities, concentrating on Reiki, chi gung, meditation and mantra w/ Andy Sinn. $15. The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.273.8364.

A Course in Miracles 7-8:30pm. Also held Wendesday at 12pm. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation. Release your mind and free yourself! Love offering. Unity Center. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

HIV/AIDS Education Support Group 7-8:15pm w/ Rodney Mailloux, MS LADC. For those affected and infected, and any related substance abuse and lifestyle issues. Free. APGD. 30 West St. Danbury. 203.778.2437.

Lyme Disease Support Group 7-8:30pm. 3rd Tues monthly. Informational, emotional and experiential support to cope with the mind-body distress of chronic illness. Free. Weston Library, 56 Norfield Rd. Register with Deni Weber: 203.544.6094.

Women’s Karate Class 9:30-10:30am. June Fagan teaches Kempo Karate to women of all ages.

No experience required. $20. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690.

Pilates Plus w/ Sally Grillo 9:30-10:30am. Pilates exercises enhance health, strengthen muscles and create length throughout the body. For all levels with modifications for injuries and limitations. $20. Nu-Yoga Studio. 32-34 Main St. Suite 6 Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

Iyengar Style Yoga 9:30-10:45am w/ David Schoenberg. Beginners Class (does not mean easy, but accommodating with use of props). Practice asanas and pranayama: develop strength, balance, poise. $15. Redding Meditation Center. 9 Picketts Ridge. Redding. 203.544.1090.

Yoga on Summer 12:30-1:30pm. Also held Thursday. Create balance, relaxation, flexibility, strength, and flow in one’s body and life. Mixed Level Vinyasa Yoga in an open, relaxing dance studio. 4/ $60; $17 drop-in. Downtown Stamford.

914.393.9221.

Feldenkrais® classes 5:45-6:45pm. Lisa Shufro, certified instructor, leads this gentle tune-up for mind and body. Great for flexibility, better posture, and stress relief. $20. Dew Yoga. Stamford.

203.274.5085.

Gentle Hatha Yoga w/ Letty 5:45-7pm. All ages & abilities. $20/class. Classes ongoing. Greenwich Senior & Arts Center. 2nd Fl. Meeting Room. 299 Greenwich Ave. 203.862.6750.

Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajam 6pm w/Beth Amrit Sadhana Kaur Mullin, IKYT. $15.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury.

24 Clapboard Ridge. Danbury. 845.661.3630.

Beginners Yoga class at Nu-Yoga Studio 6-7:30pm w/ Sally Grillo. Uplifting class to learn about yoga, reduce stress and clearing the mind.

This class includes postures, breathing techniques and relaxation. Sign up is on-going. $20. Norwalk.

Sally: 203.854.6744.

Yoga Presbyterian (Fish Church) 6-7pm. Hatha Vinyasa Flow. Drop-in’s $15; 10 card classes $120.

All classes taught by E-RYT. 1101 Bedford St. Lounge. Stamford. Questions: 203.550.8811.

Green Drinks Bridgeport 6-8pm. 4th Tuesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded

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Point Your Life in a Healthy Direction Fairfield County’s most extensive online collection of articles, local resources & events, contests, back issues, and much more, that support and inspire a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. FREE website calendar listings for those that qualify. Now just a click away!

FAIRFIELD COUNTY EDITION

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November 2011

55

Acupuncture, Health & Greening The Environment 7-8:30pm weekly talks with acupuncturist Ingri Boe-Wiegaard. Free. Location varies; Wilton, Bethel & Fairfield. Call Ingri for info: 203.259.0166.

Weekly Back School 1:30pm w/Dr. Christopher Mascetta. Free. Ridgefield Chiropractic and Wellness Center, 10 South St., Ste. 205, Ridgefield.

RSVP – seating limited: 203.431.1688.

MMA Classes (Standup Fighting & Grappling) 7:15-8:30pm. Also on Thursdays. Sensei Robert Neal, ranked #1 Masters Level, National Title Holder. $10 per class. No-Limit Health & Fitness.

1120 Federal Rd. Brookfield. 203.775.8548.

Green Drinks Greenwich 5:30-7:30pm. Greenwich is joining the vibrant Green Drinks movement! Every 2nd Wednesday of the month.

Locations vary, call 203.661.4774.

Back Yard Beekeepers 7:30pm. Last Tuesday monthly January-June and September-November.

BYBA’s provides its membership with practical info on how to’s of beekeeping. 6:30pm for new beekeepers. Free. Norfield Church. Community Rm. 64 Norfield Rd. Weston.

Reiki Healing Shares 7:30pm. 1 & 3rd Tuesdays.

Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher For Reiki Practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included $10. Held at Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk pre-register: 203.852.1150.

Psychic Circle 7:30-9pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly.

Come play in the psychic world. Enjoy tapping into intuition; connect to guides and deceased loved ones. No experience necessary; everyone can play. $25. Info: Melanie Barnum, CH. 203.451.0914.

Therapy Group for Recovering Alcoholics 8-9:30pm w/ Sandra Eagle, LCSW. Begins 2/8.

Teaching grounding techniques, used to selfregulate e.g. anxiety, depression, volatility, cravings. 8 sessions. Ongoing sessions available.

34 E Putnam Ave. Greenwich. Info/fees: 203.550.2111.

wednesday Mood Massage: Expressive Arts Therapy Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Simple, playful activities for one’s health, growth, change. Stretch, visualize, reflect. Women and teens. By appointment: $25/session. Periwinkle Health. Trumbull. 203.261.7615.

Early MornYoga 8-9am w/ Carol Shwidock MA, OTR, RTY. Start the day with this motivating Kripalu style class. Mixed level class. Drop-Ins encouraged. Harmony Yoga Studio. 48 Union St. Stamford. 203.962.4672.

Kripalu Yoga 9:30am. Relax, refresh and renew w/ Kat Barton, 500 hour Kripalu Professional Level Yoga Teacher. $10 w/class card, $16.99 walk-ins.

The Graceful Planet. Newtown. 203.426.8215.

Yoga for 50 to Infinity 10:45am. Cost is only $1.

Bethel Senior Center. Municipal Center. 1 School St. Bethel. 203.792.3048.

A Course in Miracles 12-1:30pm. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation.

Release your mind and free yourself! Love offering.

Unity Center. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Gentle Chair Yoga for Every-Body Class 121pm w/ Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, CIYT. Gentle yoga increases relaxation while decreasing pain and stress. $18 drop-in/$80 for 5 classes.

Associated Neurologists of Southern CT. Fairfield.

Registration required: 203.333.1133 ext. 152.

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Mindfulness and Healing 5:45-7pm. Beginner’s mind, patience, acceptance, let go, let be, serenity is not freedom from the storm it is peace amidst the storm. Paul Epstein, ND. $25. Shamatha Yoga. 838 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. 203.722.2358.

Green Drinks Norwalk 6pm. 1st Wednesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695.

Middle Eastern Belly Dance 6-7:30pm.

Advanced Level. Instructor: Riskallah Riyad.

First class free. A Common Ground. 346 Main St. Danbury. 203.267.1677.

Green Drinks Stamford 6-8pm. 4th Wednesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695.

Easy Does It Yoga 6:30-7:40pm. A gentle class focused on basic poses and breathing techniques to rejuvinate the body. Great for beginners. Lara Ward, 25 yrs experienced. Consolidated School 12 Gillotti Rd. New Fairfield. 860.354.6241.

Reiki Share for Practitioners 6:30-8:30pm.

Starts 9/7/11. 1st Wednesday monthly w/ Tracy Mignone and June Fagan. Practitioners share experiences and practice the healing modality. $10 Donation. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690. Reservation required.

Intro to Feldenkrais classes 6:30pm. 1 hour. A gentle tune-up for mind and body. Special focus on improving balance and breathing. $21.50/class.

The Ananda Center.16 Forest St. New Canaan.

203.274.5085.

Dynamics for Living 7pm w/ Rev. Shawn. Begins 9/14. Compilation of Charles Fillmore’s writing.

Instruction on how to live by Unity principles.

Love offering. Unity Center above the Ford dealership. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Journey within, Do you feel stuck? 7pm. 1st Wednesday monthly. 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.

Reiki Share/Circle 7pm. 2nd Wednesday monthly w/ Hilda Swaby. Reiki for stress reduction and healing, supports changes in one’s world, balances the mind, body & spirit. Bring family and friends.

Love Offering. Stamford. Call for directions: 203.554.1238.

Mastering Manifestations 7:30-9pm w/Roberta Russell. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. Confused?

Frustrated? Learn basic and advanced Law of Attraction skills for more money, happiness, better health and relationships. Come to one or all classes.

Fee: $20 per class. Move2Wellness, 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. Call to register: 203.403.2522.

natural awakenings

Kundalini Yoga and Meditation w/ Leesa 7:30pm. A blend of postures, kriyas, pranayama & meditation, which teaches the art of relaxation & self-healing. $17/class. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown.

203.364.0851.

thursday Hatha Yoga Class 9:30-11am. Flowing with grace. This class takes a close look at aligning postures therapeutically to serve individual needs. $20. Nu~Yoga Studio. 32-34 Main St. Ste 6.

Norwalk. Contact: Sally Grillo: 203.854.6744.

Yoga on Summer 12:30-1:30pm. Tuesday and Thursdays. Create balance, relaxation, flexibility, strength, and flow in one’s body and life. Mixed Level Vinyasa Yoga. Cost: $17 or 4/ $60. 201 Summer St. 2nd Fl. Downtown Stamford.

914.393.9221.

Bellydance Creative Healing Workshop 6-10pm w/ Maria Fiora. Use dance and dance stretches to energize, be creative and relax the mind. Mention Natural Awakenings to receive a free class with the program. 201 Summer St. Stamford. 203.353.4363.

Yoga Presbyterian (Fish Church) 6-7:15pm.

Gentle beginners. Drop-in’s $15; 10 card classes $120. All classes taught by E-RYT. 1101 Bedford St. Lounge. Stamford. Questions: 203.550.8811.

Qi Gong and Tai Ji Quan (Tai Chi) Class 6:30pm w/ Cliff Martin. Integrated Healthcare Associates. 992 High Ridge Rd. 3rd Fl. Stamford.

Info: 203.750.0731.

Reiki 7pm 4th Thursday monthly. Healing energy work with Hilda Swaby. Love offering. Unity Center above the Ford dealership. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Healing Prayers 7pm 3rd Thursday monthly. Heal oneself through prayer with Karen Mitchell. Love offering. Unity Center above the Ford dealership.

3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

The Bars Process 7pm 1st Thursday monthly.

Bars is part of Access Consciousness, a set of tools to facilitate more consciousness for all. Love offering. Unity Center above the Ford dealership.

3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Buddhist Chanting 7-8pm. Hosted by June Fagan. All welcome. Free. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. Please call: 203-9383690.

Kundalini Yoga & Meditation 7-8:30pm. A sacred technology that awakens the spirit, energizes the body and relaxes the mind. All ages & fitness levels. 10/$170. $20 drop in. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

HEAL Support Circle 7-8:45pm. 2nd Thursday monthly. A peer-support group led by trained cofacilitators is for victims/survivors of emotional abuse or any violence or trauma, the group meets monthly. Norwalk Library. For info call 203.305.2137.

Sunset Yoga on the Beach 7:15pm. Create balance, relaxation, flexibility, strength, and flow in one’s body and life. Mixed Level Vinyasa Yoga surrounded by the beauty of the sea at Sunset. 4/ $60. Calf Pasture. Norwalk. 914.393.9221.

Energywork Healing Circle at Daya Healing Arts 7:30-9:30pm. Michelle Lambert (Usui Reiki, Ama Deus Shamanic Healing Master) facilitates a guided meditation and group healing. New comers and practitioners of energy work invited. $12.

Monroe. 203.820.6261.

Night Out, Night Off, Cranky Couples ReConnect 8-9pm. Re-charge, renew & refresh your rel-ationship. Engaging, creative activities and dialogue. $40/couple. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615.

friday Mildly Miserable Fun for the Fed-Up, Fat, or Cranky! Allison Spitzer, M.A, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Regardless of one’s aches, size, or age, enjoy easy, playful creative activities to soothe body and spirit. No sweat, no worries.

By appointment. $25/session. Periwinkle Health.

Trumbull, 203.261.7615.

Tai Chi and Qi Gong Classes For Health and Rejuvenation 9am. $15. Wudang Tai Chi of Stamford. 414 West Main St. Please contact Luis: 203.570.1752.

Nutritional Evaluation Visits 10am w/ Debi Greco, MD. Free. 31 Hawleyville Rd. Hawleyville/ Newtown. Call to schedule appointment: 203.798.8114.

Gentle Yoga w/ Sally Grillo at Nu~Yoga Studio 10:15-11:30am. A gentler, slower paced yoga class emphasizing correct alignment, breath awareness and energy flow. All proceeds go to charity! $20. Nu~Yoga, 32-34 Main St. suite 6, Norwalk.

203.854.6744.

Middle Eastern Belly Dance 11:45am-12:45pm.

Beginner Level. Instructor: Riskallah Riyad. First class free. A Common Ground. 346 Main St. Danbury. 203.267.1677.

Drumming Circle 7-9pm. 1st Fridays. Drums available or bring one. Suggested Donation $10. Touch of Sedona. 452 Main St. Ridgefield.

203.438.7146.

Kirtan 7-9pm. 2nd Friday of every month. Satya Franche and Ma Kirtan. Call and reponse chanting.

Suggested donation $10. Kids free. Touch of Sedona. 452 Main St. Ridgefield. 203.438.7146.

Circle of Life 7:30pm. 4th Friday monthly.

Wondering what one’s Life Mission is? Ginny Brown explores: love, trust, permission, and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. $28. Monroe.

203.268.3262.

Reiki Circle 7:30pm. 1st Fridays. w/ Luciana Walker Reiki Master. Experience Universal Reiki energy in an evening of Reiki’s healing effect.

Release all stress and tension, relax muscles and mind and renew soul and spirit. $15. Easton.

203.767.6453.

Reiki Drumming Circle 7:30pm. 3rd Fridays. w/ Luciana Walker Reiki Master. An evening of integrating sound with Reiki. Sound especially drumming is a wonderful way to promote inner peace while having fun. $15. TLC of Fairfield.

203.767.6453.

classifieds

saturday Monthly Angelic Teleconferences: One hour with the Angels 1st Saturday of the month. First bi-lingual program w/ Ana Mercedes Rueda, facilitator. $20. Info: 203.426.9448.

Yoga & Pilates Fusion 8:30am w/ Kat Barton.

Class utilizes weights, bands and balls. $10 w/ class card, $16.99 walk-ins. The Graceful Planet.

Newtown. 203.426.8215.

Pilates Mat mixed level 8:30am. A combination of a traditional Pilates mat class and core challenging exercises using physio-ball. Great for anyone from athletes to someone who wants to tone. $20. Black Rock Pilates. 2889 Fairfield Ave. Call: 203.335.1987.

Therapeutic Yoga 8:30-9:45am w/ Carol Shwidock. Carol combines Occupational Therapy knowledge with a passion for yoga in this healing Kripalu style class. All levels welcome. $20 or $180/10 classes. Harmony Yoga. 48 Union St. Stamford. 203.962.4672.

Yoga & Meditation at the Beach 9am Meditation; 9:15-10:15am. Runs through September. Mixed level Vinyasa Yoga. Create balance, relaxation, flexibility, strength, and flow in one’s body and life. 4/ $60. Calf Pasture Beach. Norwalk.

914.393.9221.

Yoga Presbyterian (Fish Church) 10-11am.

Hatha Vinyasa Flow. Drop-in’s $15; 10 card classes $120. All classes taught by E-RYT. 1101 Bedford St. Lounge. Stamford. Questions: 203.550.8811.

Intro to Feldenkrais classes 10:30am. 1 hour. A gentle tune-up for mind and body. Special focus on improving balance and breathing. $21.50/class.

The Ananda Center.16 Forest St. New Canaan.

203.274.5085.

Santosha Yoga w/ Julie 9am. Santosha’s signature yoga class takes place outside on landscaped grounds next to a pond. $17/class. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown.

203.364.0851.

Latin dance for relaxation from the week 10am w/ Maria Fiora. Fun workshop to get your weekend going. 201 Summer St. Downtown Stamford.

203.353.4363.

Pre-Natal Yoga at Nu~Yoga Studio w/ Sally Grillo 10-11:30am. Yoga emphasizes breathing, relaxation, posture, and body awareness, help’s build strength, increases endurance, improves alignment, and reduces aches and pains. $20. NuYoga. Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

The Universal Reiki Plan 11am-1pm every 3rd Saturday. Private Reiki Sessions available. $10 suggested. ReikiShare/Workshop 1:15-4pm.

ReikiOvertones students free. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant. Bridgeport. ReikiOvertones. Indoor Winter classes, info or appointment call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

Wine Tasting 12:30-8pm. Come to the Saturday Wine Tastings. A variety of organic wines always in stock. Free. New England Wine & Spirits. 590 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.438.6331.

To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to FFCadvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Birmingham, AL; North Central FL; Lexington, KY; Cincinnati, OH; Tulsa, OK; Northeast PA; Columbia, SC; Southwest VA. Call for details 239.530.1377.

NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE FRANCHISES: for sale in prime locations. Natural Awakenings now in 60+ cities. Call 877.530.1377.

HELP WANTED HEALTH BENEFITS SALES - to sell innovative wellness discount program to corporations. Lucrative ground floor opportunity.

Experience selling to corporations preferred.

Flexible hours, work from home when not on sales calls. Full or Part-time. Excellent commission. Fairfield County. Email resume to Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com NATURAL AWAKENINGS IS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANTS. Part-time, commissioned-based, working minimum of 15hrs/wk. Must be outgoing and have excellent communication and follow up skills. Perfect for a stay-at-home mom who is tenacious and motivated, looking for extra income.

Call 914.450.9780.

SALESPEOPLE WANTED! Earn a generous commission selling ads for Natural Awakenings; 10% for warm leads or appointments or 25% for handling clients. Part time, flexible hours working from home when not on sales calls. Must have ad sales experience. Relationship-oriented sales; must like talking to people. Call Carolyn at 203.885.4674.

VIOLIN TEACHERS WANTED AT THE LITTLE RED SCHOOL OF ART & MUSIC. 2979 Main Street, Stratford. Piano and vocal instructors. 203.375.0692. Carolyn West, Owner.

PRODUCTS NATURAL VEGAN COSMETICS Makeup made from natural ingredients. Colors for all skin tones. Get 10% off with code CTNA. FREE SHIPPING over $35. Visit MyDelightOnline.com.

Join us on Facebook and we’ll directly alert you of upcoming happenings and events.

Search “Natural Awakenings magazine Fairfield County”

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November 2011

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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

AROMATHERAPY

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

YOUNG LIVING ESSENTAIL OILS

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203.259.1660 CTacupuncture.com 25 year full time practice

Cris Ann Mulreed 203.216.8413 pathfollowers@gmail.com

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility, and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad pg 29.

DR. J.M. POPOWICH, DC, QME, DABCN 87 S. Main ST, Newtown 06470 203.304.9037 MyNewtownDoctor.com

Providing acupuncture for children and adults. Care for pain as well as allergies, digestive problems, sport injuries, stress, difficulty sleeping, headaches, and other disorders.

Certified by the Int’l Academy of Medical Acupuncture. Fellow of the Int’l Academy of Medical Acupuncture. See ad pg See ad pg 14. s in

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Kenneth Hoffman, DAc, LAc 499 Federal Rd, Brookfield CT 203.740.9300 SophiaNaturalHealth.co

Combining Chinese Medicine with modern science, we restore health by identifying imbalances that cause illness. Acupuncture, Allergy Elimination, Chronic Pain Relief, Hormone Balancing, Thermography, Detoxification.

ALLERGIES

Young Living is uniting ancient traditions and modern science to promote health and longevity. Through extensive research and commitment to quality, we are growing, distilling and manufacturing the highestquality organic essential oils and oil-enhanced products in the world.

JH WELLNESS, LLC

Bio-Feedback Technology Nutritional & Weight Loss Counseling JHWellness.com 203.716.1727 Experience our break through state-of-the art bio-communication technology. By removing the guesswork, this powerful and effective tool will assist in a lifetime of wellness. See ad pg 50.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER 499 Federal Rd, Brookfield CT 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. Thermogram results include a free 15-minute phone consultation.

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866.XtoRAYS SuzannePyle@Prodigy.net

Dr. Mark Joachim Advanced Certified Practitioner 156 East Avenue, Norwalk 203.838.1555 Allergy-Cure-CT.com BioSET can eliminate all food and environmental allergies related to behavioral issues, asthma, eczema, headaches, fibromyalgia, sinus conditions, gastric disorders and chronic health conditions. Safe for all ages, without drugs, shots or side effects! See ad pg 4.

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DR. J.M. POPOWICH, DC, QME, DABCN Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist Celebrating 20 Years in Practice 87 S. Main St, Newtown 203.304.9037 MyNewtownDoctor.com

Providing outstanding care for pain relief to wellness as well as holistic care for accidents and injuries. We care for adults and children. See ad pg 14.

BIO-FEEDBACK TECHNOLOGY

X TO RAYS.COM

BIOSET ALLERGY ELIMINATION PROGRAM

CHIROPRACTIC

natural awakenings

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.

SCOTT BENDER, DC

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203.967.8888 ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com Dr. Bender is Board Certified in the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure, a gentle method for the detection, and correction of misalignments of the Upper Cervical Spine. He is also a founding member of the Trauma Imaging Foundation, a non-profit multispecialty physician group dedicated to the accurate diagnosis, and treatment of Brain, and Spinal Trauma. See ads pg 13 & Back Cover.

COLONICS COLONICS AT LIFELINE HYGIENICS REJUVENATION CENTER

Since 1993, Rye, NY 914.921.LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Now offering personalized cleanse programs, as well as our personalized colonics, since 1993.

Rejuvenation at its best! See ad pg 16.

GREENWICH COLON HYDROTHERAPY Kelly McCoy Located at Natural Medicine & Wellness Center Old Greenwich 203.698.9088

Experience relief from congestion and discover a greater sense of Greenwich Colon w e l l b e i n g . C o l o n Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy helps to est. 1996 regain a deeper flow and creates balance in a world with pressure and toxicity.

Relaxing treatments aid in achieving personal awareness to internal harmony. See ad pg 23.

COLONICS 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 pg 63.

CORE ENERGETICS TERESA BULIT-GORDON, CCEP

Body-Oriented Process Work Offices in Greenwich and NYC 203.570.2876 AwakenToYourCore.com Within a supportive and empathetic relationship you will be guided in releasing and transforming patterns of behavior and core beliefs through the energy in your body. See ad pg 50.

COUNSELING KELLEY HOPKINS-ALVAREZ, MS, MSED, NCC Solution-Focused Counseling Ridgefield CT 203.948.0938 KelleyHopkinsAlvarez.com

I am a board certified counselor, and know that making that first call to a counselor can be tough. I value your time and will work hard with you to bring about change at a manageable cost. See ad pg 23.

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

GREEN LIVING

RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

GET GREEN CLEAN

Tony Antolics, BSN, BA, RN Independent Shaklee Distributor 203.435.4476 TheNutritionNurse.com

44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203.797.0551

Accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Information Technology and Electrical Systems Technician; day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if eligible), free placement assistance. See ad pg 41.

EEG NEUROFEEDBACK WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com Improve Brain Function with RealTime EEG Neurofeedback. Learn about about this amazing technology, watch patients tell their own stories of improved focus, concentration, help in recovery from traumatic brain injuries on our video website at WholeBodyMed.com. See ad pg 63.

FAMILY SERVICES

GREEN MAID, INC.

All Natural & Organic Products Buy online at GreenMaidOrganics.com 203.558.2662 Green Maid, Inc. provides online home shopping for natural, organic and eco-friendly home and personal care products. Also providing Green residential cleaning services in select areas.

HOLISTIC DENTIST LEONARD KUNDEL, DMD

1250 Summer Street, Stamford 203.487.6020 StamfordDentist.com

ALLISON B. SPITZER, MA

Expressive Therapeutic Coaching 203.261.7615 PeriwinkleHealth.com Children, teens, adults Practical, ongoing support while handling issues such as ADD, depression, difficult parenting, obesity or loneliness. Traditional and creative sessions to help you manage life more comfortably and joyously. See ad pg 17.

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

HEALING STEPS

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 pg 11.

Supporting children and parents with expert knowledge in the field of mental health and psychiatry.

Specialized in treating preschool age through adolescence with behavioral/emotional issues such as abuse, trauma, divorce, separation anxiety. See ad pg 36.

40 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown 203.364.1113 WaldorfCT.org

Shaklee is the 1st company in the world to be certified Climate Neutral. Start making your home cleaner for your family and the planet with the safe alternative to traditional household cleaning products.

Tracy King LCSW-R Early childhood thru adolescent counseling 914.589.6755 TracyAKing14@msn.com

in your life.

The Way Dentistry should be!

Discover the relationship of mouth and body. Learn what 96% of dentists won’t tell you.

Find out how your mouth can help you sleep better, walk straighter and have improved relationships

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 pg 63.

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HYPNOSIS

LIFE COACH

MELANIE BARNUM, CH

Hypnotist, Life Coach, Intuitive Counselor Author, Reflexologist 203.451.0914 MelanieBarnum.com

LISA MEADE, PHD

WomenWithinsight.com 203.445.0117 Lisa@WomenWithinsight.com

Create a life you love! Unique individual and group sessions, ongoing workshops. Connect to your future! Be the person you want to be!

Spiritual Life Coaching incorporates the structure and direction of personal life coaching with a foundation in spiritual practices, intentions and insights. Contact to learn more. See ad pg 23.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY DR. RANDY SCHULMAN, MS, OD, FCOVD Behavioral Optometrist Norwalk: 203.840.1991 vtotWorks.com VisionworksVT@aol.com Trumbull: 203.268.8852 TLTC.org Schulman@tltc.org

Dr. Schulman specializes in vision therapy, pediatrics, learning disabilities, developmental delays, autism, TBI/stroke, and preventative and alternative vision care. She also practices Iridology, the study of the iris.

Gain insights into your physical, emotional and spiritual being through this unique reading.

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. KAREN S. JUDD, LCSW

Counselor • USUI Reiki Master ReverendKarenSJudd.com Office: Bethel, CT 203.545.3664 Creates and performs Weddings, Union Ceremonies, Memorial Services and Baby Blessings.

Life transitions - bereavement counseling; facilitating a deeper connection with yourself, others and the Divine.

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 pg 25.

MEDICAL DOCTOR HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 203.348.8805 DrSobo.com Medical doctor practicing holistic/ alternative medicine & weight reduction in Stamford, CT. Nutrition, Allergy Desensitization, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement for men and women.

See ad pg 12.

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD

Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St Suite 201 Stamford, CT 06905.

203.324.4747

INTUITIVE GUIDE JOAN CARRA

Psychic Medium Greenwich, CT 203.531.6387 PsychicJoanCarra.com PsychicJoanCarra@PsychicJoanCarra.com Joan guides you on your path drawing on her intuitive powers.

As a medium, she can bring to life, friends on the other side. She is recognized by the books The 100 Top Psychics in America and Files from the Edge.

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natural awakenings

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad pg 10.

NATURAL HEALTHCARE RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD Karen Zino, MD 1200 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.637.3337 Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology is a fullservice medical practice incorporating traditional and holistic approaches to women’s health. The practice includes two OB/ GYN’s and a naturopathic physician. See ad pg 37.

WORDEN WELLNESS CENTER 41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury 203.748.8093 Healing the Whole Person

Combining natural health treatments, chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition to relieve pain and restore the body to optimal health and balance.

See ad pg 31.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DEBRA GIBSON, ND

158 Danbury Road, Suite 8 Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.431.4443 Natural family healthcare using nutrition and biochemistry; herbal, homeopathic, and energetic medicine; lifestyle transformation and detoxification, to promote well-being of body, mind and spirit. See ad pg 25.

GARY S. GRUBER, ND

Family and Environmental Medicine 68 Old Stamford Road New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.6360 ScienceMeetsNature.com “Where science meets nature with compassion.” Do you struggle with allergies, pain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart or circulatory problems? Difficulty losing weight? Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or cancer? I have effective therapies for patients just like you. Family and Environmental Medicine for men, women, and children.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTER

K. Pramila Vishvanath, ND Mark R. Sanders, ND 2324 Post Rd, Fairfield 203.259.2700 IntegratedHealthCenterOnline.com Serving Fairfield County for 20 years. Specializing in craniosacral therapy, classical homeopathy, allergy assessment and treatment, nutrition, weight management, body reshaping and skin tightening, detox, colonics, breast thermography. See ad pg 14.

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1300 Post Road East, Westport 203.255.5005 BigAppleHealth.com

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

NATUROPATHIC HEALTH CENTER, LLC

2 locations: Shelton and Sandy Hook/Newtown 203.922.0029 NaturoHealthCenter.com Dr. Carolyn Graham, RN, ND Dr. Alice Bell, MS, ND We work with patients having a variety of illnesses from Lyme disease to cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune diseases to the common cold.

Our specialties include environmental medicine, detoxification, nutritional therapy, FirstLine Therapy® and preventative medicine. See ad pg 20.

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.847.2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years.

Acupuncture, Bio-Identical H o r m o n e s , H o m e o p a t h y, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/ Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad pg 29.

NUTRITION

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, 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 pg 63.

NUTRITION CHEF ELY GRÜBEL

Licensed - Insured 203.559.8946 ElyGrubel@gmail.com

FIXEAT NUTRITION AND HEALTH SERVICES LLC

Riverside 203.940.1948 Info@FixEat.com FixEat.com At FixEat, we provide expert nutrition counseling tailored to your needs. General health, weight management, chronic disease, childhood, pregnancy, PCOS and more. Visit FixEat.com.

MARY MAY

Chopra Certified Ayurveda Instructor Food Coach Institute of Culinary Education graduate 203.912.1656 MaryMayCT@gmail.com Toxic? Symptoms: Overweight, fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, anxiety. Solution: easy, 100% pure, gentle yet deep tissue cleanse/detox. Benefits: weight loss, better digestion, improved sense of well-being and balanced body.

NINA ARNOLD, MPH, RN, CBN

Integrative Health Coach/ Holistic Nurse 860.869.7137 BariCoach@gmail.com BariCoach.com Nina offers holistic guidance through an empowering, selfdiscovery process. Specialty in weight management and support for those considering/have had weight loss surgery. Services offered over the phone, via Skype, or in-person.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN Over 8 years experience providing personalized in-home healthy meals prep and freezing. Trained

by United States Personal Chef Association at Culinary Business Academy and by Institute for Integrative Nutrition. See ad pg 39.

FOOD PHARMACOPOEIA LLC

Kate Strever-McCrossen Willows Medical Complex, Westport CT 203.274.2086 kjstrever@gmail.com Kate is a clinical nutritionist who provides nutrition consultations focusing on preventative nutrition, nutrition therapy and food sensitivities. Visit www.

FoodPharmacopoeia.com for more information.

OSTEOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTER, LLC David L Johnston, DO Lisa Preston, DO Hannah Eucker, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 203.438.9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Gentle, natural, hands-on osteopathic medical care for infants, children & adults. Children’s health and development, birth trauma, musculoskeletal pain and injuries, nutrition and wellness counseling, stress reduction, immune support, allergies.

Most major insurances accepted.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2011

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PSYCHOTHERAPY

PSYCHOTHERAPY DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County DeniWeber.com 203.544.6094

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford, CT 203.561.8535; RobinOrdanLCSW.com

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

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

Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment /Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad pg 16.

LILA TAYLOR LMFT

Clinical Psychologist for men and women Ridgefield, CT 203.438.4080 DrStacyRaymond.com

Conscious Psychotherapy Soul Psychology Office in Fairfield County 203.783.3069 LilaTaylor.com Holistic, traditional, compassionate and spiritual approaches for self-healing from separations, transitions, childhood wounds, depression and loss. Discover inner resources, renewed purpose and reclaim your true Self.

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

STACY RAYMOND, PSY.D

Dr. Raymond offers traditional and alternative approaches to depression, anxiety and recovery from trauma. Energy psychology techniques (EMDR, HeartMath(R), EFT). Mind-body-spirit perspective of physical and/or emotional illness.

Discover self-acceptance and begin to heal.

REIKI

238 Monroe Tpke. Suite B Monroe, CT 06468 203.445.8966 LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com Msisi@AOL.com

GIGI BENANTI USUI REIKI MASTER

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.

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher She offers all levels of Reiki Training monthly.

All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques.

Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk, CT 203.852.1150 AngelHealReiki.com

REIKI HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter ~ Usui Reiki Practitioner 203.522.2673 Fairfield, CT HunterHealingHands.com Your well-being is my spiritual goal! Contact me to experience a personal Reiki session in your own home - I will travel to you! Certified & insured.

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT Reiki Master Ridgefield, CT 203.438.3050 TurningPointReiki.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki and IET sessions.

Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

RELATIONSHIP COACH PEAK RESULTS COACHING Jeff Forte CSIC CME 2389 Main St. 860.633.8555 Glastonbury, CT PeakResultsCoaching.com

Do you want a more fulfilling marriage but don’t know what to do? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship that seems doomed to fail? I will show you step by step exactly what to do to create the love and connection you want in your relationship. I am a Certified Marriage Educator, and clients frequently come to me when nothing else seems to work or when something must change now.

Call today because you deserve more.

WELLNESS JANET LUONGO, MSED, CHC, LE

Integrative Health & Lifestyle Educator 203.846.2642; Info@Nourish-Flourish.org Book your time at JanetLuongo.com Boost energy, drop fat, sleep well, improve health naturally.

Therapeutic lifestyle changes.

Relax through yoga, express your vision and true self. Individual/ group coaching and presentations.

PROMINDFUL, INC. Stamford, CT, USA ProMindful.org 203.274.6024

Visit “Natural Awakenings Magazine Fairfield County” on Facebook 62

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

ProMindful is a non-profit o rg a n i z a t i o n o ff e r i n g i n t egrative practices including yoga, meditation, and holistic nutrition services. We work in collaboration with existing teachers and organizations to provide scholarships, lectures, classes, workshops, publications, recordings, and broadcasts.

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

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

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

Call now for details.

Office located on the Fairfield/Trumbull line

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

November 2011

63

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Sufferers:

You Don’t Have to Suffer Anymore

Dr. Scott Bender has helped thousands of fibromyalgia and chronic pain sufferers regain their health using the Atlas Orthogonal procedure. He is the only Board-Certified physician in Connecticut to offer this highly effective, painless, and non-surgical solution.

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Dr. Bender specializes in the treatment of: • Fibromyalgia • Chronic Back Pain Fatigue COnneCTICUT SPIne •• Chronic Migraines AnD HeALTH CenTeR • Headache/Neck Pain UPPeRCounty CeRvICAL • TMJ Fairfield EditionHeALTHCARe natural awakenings

If you’re in pain, call Dr. Bender today for a free consultation

203.967.8888

ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com 111 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT