Natural Awakenings Fairfield County May 2011

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Say NO to GMOs! Jean Houston on

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WOMEN CONSCIOUS PREGNANCY preparing for new life

MAY 2011

| Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

Once we reach 100 Participating Providers we’ll launch the new Natural Awakenings Network in Fairfield County! Watch our progress at NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com.

Here are a Few of the Providers Who’ve Already Joined: Camillo Health & Fitness Caroline Temple, MSW, LCSW Dew Yoga Dr. Deb Bossio, ND Dr. Henry Sobo, MD Dr. Kimberly Embry, DC Dr. LuAnn Moratto, DC Dr. Michael Gazsi, ND Dr. Sherri Stemper, ND

Fragrant Offerings Gumdrop Swap Kids Boutique Janet Luongo, Integrative Health & Lifestyle Educator Lotus Gardens Yoga School Massage Works Mindy Kannon, Nutrition Coach & Personal Chef North American Power Energy

Pat Ting, LAc Peace Tree Desserts Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute Sharon Cravens, Intuitive Guide Trillium Architects Turning Point Reiki Withinsight

As a Natural Awakenings Network Provider, You Can: • Expand your customer base while increasing your income • Receive free promotional exposure on our websites and in the magazine • Receive referrals from our Customer Service Center • Receive your client payment when you render service. Zero claims!

• Be part of a network dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles • The first year is free!

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We are NOW building our Connecticut Provider Network. To become a NAN Provider, Fairfield Countyemail Edition Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com natural awakenings

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CLICK!

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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Fairfield County Edition

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contents 26

7 newsbriefs

18 healthykids 22 fairfieldgreen 26 globalbriefs

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30 actionalert 32 healthbriefs 38 consciouseating 44 wisewords

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48 inspiration 50 calendar 58 classified

59 resourceguide

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.

18 Baby on Board

Preparing for Pregnancy & Motherhood

by Jessica Iclisoy

20 Defining Moments

on the Journey to Conscious Creation

by Nina Antolino

Foot Gardening

How to Boost Your Health and the Health of

Our Planet…from a Box!

by Amie Guyette Hall

30 Be in the Know

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.

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

Questions and Needed Action

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

Editorial submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “Submit Editorial” at the top of the page.

Deadline for News Briefs: the 5th of the month.

A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Best

by Frances Lefkowitz

regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994.

To place your ad in other markets call 203.885.4674.

For franchising opportunities call 239.530.1377.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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24 Sustainable Square

advertising & submissions

calendar submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “Submit Calendar” at the top of the page. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 5th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.

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About GMOs

Untold Risks, Unanswered

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34 Natural Beauty — Head to Toe

38 Foods For Ageless Beauty

Nourishing Skin from Inside and Out

by Renée Loux

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46 Take Your Soul on a Great Night Out

Sacred Chanting is Right in Your Neighborhood

by Jay Hanuman

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letterfrompublisher Welcome to our first Natural Beauty edition.

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

Prior to Natural Awakenings much of my career was spent working in the beauty industry so this issue feels like a bit of a “coming of age” experience for me. It’s great to see how far natural beauty products and services have evolved. It used to be that women had to make big sacrifices in quality, price, Carolyn Aversano and results when choosing natural products but today’s offerings have improved so much that generally little to no sacrifice is required. The variety of products and services has greatly expanded and they are more conveniently available in spas, salons, health food stores, wellness centers and even supermarkets. There are also great resources for whipping up natural beauty products like masks and lotions right in our own kitchens (explore at Skin-Care-Recipes-and-Remedies.com). In Fairfield County there are a few businesses that have dedicated themselves to the natural beauty niche, born of their owners’ passion for offering a safer, natural alternative to the public. Salon Aponte in Newtown and Briana Salon in Stamford are two of just a small handful of salons in Connecticut that offer high quality organic hair coloring, which is a much safer (no ammonia, no parabens, no scalp staining) alternative to conventional hair coloring especially as most women who color their hair do so regularly. Body Essentials, the Danbury area’s only holistic spa, offers treatments such as facials, body wraps, and Sudatonic detox using high quality natural products.

Of course the real beauty’s on the inside and key ingredients like nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management and inspiration, or the lack of, will always reveal themselves in the mirror! Which is a great segue to the topic of gardening – an activity that embraces all 5 of these health and beauty ingredients.

Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Phone: 203.885.4674 Fax: 203.516.2392 Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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.

I met Holistic Health Counselor Amie Hall at our Natural Connections Night in April, where she gave a wonderful lecture on Square Foot Gardening. I was so inspired by her and the topic that I asked her to write about it for our readers (see page 24). The local, organic food movement is so vital to ensuring that we’re eating the freshest, safest, and most nutritious food available – it is the cornerstone of good health (and disease prevention). Growing our own food is the best of all options as it gives us the certainty of knowing how and where our food has been grown, it connects us to nature in a deep, primal way, and it can be a big cost saver. But up until the night I met Amie, it seemed like it required an awful lot of time, work, and expertise. Square Foot Gardening is something that almost anyone can do, without any prior experience fairly easily! I love that it’s so contained - in space, scope and work, with big benefits. It’s not too late to start your Square Foot Garden this month!

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 100% postconsumer recycled paper with soy-based ink.

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natural awakenings

newsbriefs Barbara Marx Hubbard To Speak at Wainwright Celebration

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ainwright House, the nation’s oldest spiritual and holistic educational center, is celebrating its 60th anniversary on Saturday, May 14, from 2 to 7 p.m. A Celebration of Spirit features special guest speaker Barbara Marx Hubbard, who will share her extraordinary vision in a talk entitled “BIRTH 2012: Making the Shift in Time—Activation East.”

Deepak Chopra calls BarBarbara Marx Hubbard bara “the voice of conscious evolution in our times.” Her talk will be followed by a Q&A session, after which guests will break into small salons for discussions led by prominent local spiritual facilitators.

The afternoon’s events begin at water’s edge with welcoming remarks, a blessing, and Music of the Spheres with Sound Alchemist Suan Armstrong. At the end of the day, guests will have time to reflect and mingle at the Spring Dinner Buffet. Organizers hope the celebration will open minds, fill hearts, and inspire new possibilities.

To register for this event, visit ACelebrationOfSpirit.org or Wainwright.org, or call 914.967.6080 for more information.

Wainwright House is located at 260 Stuyvesant Avenue in Rye, NY.

Stamford Garden Club Presents TimeScapes Flower Show

Clinics Your Partners in Health and Wellness

The UB Clinics, located on the campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed by some of the brightest and most talented healthcare professionals of the future. Open to the public, the UB Clinics offer affordable, high-quality care at a fraction of the cost of comparable treatments elsewhere.

• Naturopathic Medicine • Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture Call our UB Clinics at 203-576-4349 to take advantage of this unique healthcare opportunity located in your own backyard. Or visit www.ubclinics.org

Health Sciences Center, 60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604

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he Stamford Garden Club will present its Flower Show, “TimeScapes”, in association with the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, on Friday, May 20 and Saturday, May 21. The Show will feature displays of floral arranging, The Stamford Garden Club horticulture, photography, botanical jewelry, conservation and children’s gardening programs. The Stamford Museum and Nature Center’s exhibit, “The Nature of Our Collections,” featuring some of the most valuable and unique objects the Museum has collected over its 75 years, will serve as a backdrop to enhance and lend inspiration to the Flower Show participants. This exhibit will

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May 2011

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include sculptures by Gutson Borglum, paintings by John Singer Sargent, Guy Pene du Bois and others, astrological chromolithographs by Etienne Leopold Trouvelot, Native American artifacts and farm implements.

The children’s gardening programs will include composting, bee keeping and the challenges of Anne Ramsey growing lettuce.

Anne Ramsey will be honored at the Celebration Party for the “TimeScapes” Flower Show and the Stamford Garden Club’s 90th Birthday on Friday, May 20 at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s Bendel Mansion. The Garden Club’s honorary chairman, Mrs. Ramsey has been a pioneer and effective proponent for conservation and environmental issues for most of her life and has received numerous local and national awards for her dedication. She worked with Gloria Anable on the Mianus Gorge project, established in 1954. They helped to find funds to protect this beautiful park and to keep the area from being developed into housing. Anne received a Founders Fund Award from the Garden Clubs of America for this project. At a time when many longstanding garden club members might focus solely on their own gardens or rest on their laurels, Anne continues to be a dynamo. She is indefatigable and dedicated as well as loved and respected.

The public is invited to share in the TimeScapes Celebration on Friday, May 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Stamford Museum’s Bendel Mansion, located at 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford. Donations are $75. Proceeds will be used to further civic projects in the Stamford area. Flower Show

entrance is included with admission to the Stamford Museum & Nature Center. The event will be from 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday, May 20, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 21. For information call 202.322.1646 or visit StamfordMuseum.org.

Move2Wellness Two and Growing hiteknuckled and strapped in, Move2wellness has held on for two years through the economic roller coaster, evolving into a true co-operative, complementary, alternative healing center. Lynda Willams added her Natural Bodyworks, a long-established massage therapy practice with reflexology and craniosacral, to the Center. Colleen Olphie’s five-element-based Radiant Health Acupuncture moved its Wilton practice to M2W and has increased its office hours threefold. In the fall of 2010, Roberta Russell’s Beyond Touch Therapy began classes in EFT, the Emotional Freedom Technique, and now offers extended workshops. Melissa Merendino, longtime spiritual supporter of the center, well-respected reader and healer, offers private sessions and workshops in the healing arts for both the two-legged and four legged. Bob Pagament of Westchester Hypnosis now offers sessions in smoking, weight reduction and addictive behaviors, and naturopathic physician Dr. Deb Bossio offers free monthly discussions on topics ranging from addressing anxiety naturally to menopause. As times change and we all negotiate the economy, environment, and medical

Healthy Body ~ Calm Mind

Peaceful Heart

• Anusara Style Yoga • Guided Meditation • Yoga for Golf • Pilates Mat Classes • Specialized Yoga Workshops • Private Instruction

39 Unquowa Rd Fairfield

ORGANIC & RAW FOOD Gluten & Dairy Free MAY 12th Raw Athlete/Runner Tim VanOrden 6:30pm Itʼs CLEANSE TIME! May 16-20 5 days of an All Liquid Diet ALL ORGANIC & FRESH 203 292 8190 For Hours & to view the menu visit www.catchahealthyhabit.com

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Fairfield County Edition

203.854.6744 www.nu-yoga.com 32-34 Main St. Suite 6, 2nd Flr. Norwalk, CT (across from McMahon Ford)

natural awakenings

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Move2Wellness is located at 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, in the Stonehouse Commons Building. Phone 203.403.2522 or visit Move2Wellness. com. See ad pg 26.

Dr. Sobo’s New Health Lecture Series

NOW ENROLLING

evolution, Move2Wellness founder Rob Young remains committed to providing therapies that can best serve its community.

pre K through 8th grade

HVWS_generic_4.75x4.5_4C_NATURAL AWAKENINGS_12_10_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 4/10/11 1:5

Confident Children

C a pa b l e S t u d e n t S

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

CompaSSionate adultS

Henry Sobo

S

tarting May 25, a unique new health lecture series, “Timely Topics in Natural Medicine,” is coming to Stamford, thanks to Henry C. Sobo, M.D., a longtime Stamford-based doctor of internal medicine. Over the years, Dr. Sobo has helped countless patients overcome a wide range of illnesses through his holistic, alternative approach to medicine.

Participants in this new lecture series— running in April, May and June—will have a unique opportunity to learn firsthand, from a dedicated, cutting-edge practitioner, about issues affecting their health and longevity. May’s lecture is “Allergies: There’s More Than Meets the Itchy Eye.” Dr. Sobo will discuss how allergies affect our health in many ways we may not be aware of, and how to rid ourselves of a wide variety of symptoms. A Q&A session will follow.

RSVP for Wednesday, May 25, 7 p.m. lecture: 203.348.8805. Seating is limited. Location is 111 High Ridge Road, Stamford. Visit DrSobo.com. See ad pg 15.

Intoxicating beauty.

Non-toxic care.

It ’s in our nature to care.

203.790.9809 * CamillaLandscapeDesign.com Planning * Building Organic Lawn Care * Organic Tick Control

CT REG# B-0839 | CT LIC# 577425 | NY REG# 11911 | NY LIC# WC-15398-H04

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Good “Car-ma” Awaits...

Fairfield County’s Relay for Life®

Get The Best Car Deal Possible Call Sage Auto Advisor We are auto negotiation specialists and will find you the best deal available on any new or pre-owned car.

Lease or Buy? Hybrid or Electric?

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GET PEACE OF MIND with BREAST THERMOGRAPHY Thermograms offer safe, FDA-approved, full body or breast screening

SUZANNE PYLE

• 8 years earlier detection vs. mammograms • Safe – no radiation • Locations throughout Fairfield County

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For more information about thermography:

Call 866 . X TO RAYS or 203.331.2878 or visit XTORAYS.com

The Natural Choice

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. Everything we do is to improve your health and appearance.

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

5520 Park Ave. Trumbull / Fairfield townline at Exit 47 off Merritt Pkwy

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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natural awakenings

elay For Life®, the American Cancer Society’s signature events, are held in many towns throughout Fairfield County in May and June. They are fun-filled overnight experiences designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer, when people celebrate survivors and remember those lost to cancer.

Relay participants help raise money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society in its mission to eliminate cancer as a major health issue.

Teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks and take turns walking or running laps. The events are held overnight to represent the fact that cancer never sleeps. The survivors’ laps and the luminaria ceremony honor the people who have faced cancer firsthand, as well as those lost to this disease. Volunteers and donors support research, education, advocacy, and services that allow the American Cancer Society to offer help and hope. Sign up today to become a part of the Relay For Life® effort in your community.

Visit RelayForLife.org for more information about events nearest yout. See ad pg 21.

Vegetable Gardening Workshop at Heckscher Farm

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oin our growing community committed to holistic wellbeing and ecofriendly living by attending Natural Awakenings Natural Connections Nights, hosted monthly by a local business. Meet area practitioners and green experts. Learn about services and products geared toward living a healthy, balanced lifestyle, and make like-minded personal and professional connections.

On Wednesday, May 18 Natural Connections Night will be hosted by Stamford Museum & Nature Center from 6 to 8 p.m. Join us for a Vegetable Gardening workshop led by Will Kies. As Director of Education at SMNC, Kies is in charge of the Nature Center and Heckscher Farm, where over 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables are planted in their organic garden! This workshop offers the beginner or advanced gardener a wonderful opportunity to learn from this local expert, while also experiencing the beautiful working grounds of Heckscher Farm.

Next month, Natural Connections Night returns to Sticks & Stones Farm in Newtown, on Wednesday, June 22. Join us for a moonlit outdoor labyrinth walk in a beautiful natural setting, followed by refreshments. Although Sticks and Stones is a working farm, it shares its gorgeous, tranquil setting – 60 acres complete with streams, hiking trails, and forest preserve - with individuals, families, and groups who are seeking rustic day and weekend retreats. The Farm also hosts stone classes, healthy culinary classes, yoga and pilates classes, children’s summer workshops, and celebrations.

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These events are free. The May 18 gardening workshop at Heckscher Farm is from 6 to 8 p.m., at 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford. To RSVP for either of these events, email Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Space is limited. See ad pg 51.

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Tending Your Inner Garden

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

Personal Computer Training & Troubleshooting

The Computer Fairy: • teaches you to send emails & use the internet • speeds up your computer & backs up your precious files • fixes your wireless connections & more

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sychologist Dr. Stacy Raymond, and Certified Nutritionist, Renee Simon, combine their professional health and wellness skills to offer a truly unique growth opportunity for women. This four week program will safely guide participants to identify and change emotions and behaviors that no longer serve them, helping to nurture a healthy relationship with food, their body, and Stacy Raymond the important people in their lives. Group members are supported as they prune away old patterns, habits and stories that serve as obstacles to reaching personal goals. Proven coping skills such as mindfulness, deep breathing and meditation will be taught and practiced.

Dr. Stacy Raymond has been a licensed clinical psychologist in CT for 15 years. She specializes in trauma resolution, eating issues, and resolving the toxic beliefs and emotions that often underlie physical illness. Renee A. Simon, MS, CNS is a Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, published author, and professional speaker who specializes in integrative medicine, weight management, and spiritual growth.

This workshop meets on Wednesdays from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on May 11, 18, 25 & June 1st at 15 Gilbert Street in South Salem, NY. Call 914.763.9107 to register. Cost is $199 for 4 weeks.

For more information about Stacy Raymond and Renee Simon visit Dr.StacyRaymond.com or TotalWellnessNutrition.com. See ad pg 62.

New Healthy Ways in Ridgefield

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ealthy Ways, an alternative and preventive medical facility, has opened in Ridgefield, offering the practice of Naturopath Melissa Robinson and Therapeutic Massages by Mary Saccary and Marisa DelMonaco. Future expanded services will include Reiki, acupuncture and nutritional counseling.

Currently, Dr. Robinson’s total client evaluation program includes a client history, bloodwork, and a physical exam.

This is followed by a treatment plan based on patients’ specific needs and goals, with Dr. Robinson’s extensive listening and follow-up. Healthy Ways overall goal is to treat the client at a level that is comfortable, compliant and self-motivating.

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Some insurance plans are accepted. Healthy Ways is located at 38B Grove Street, Ridgefield. Phone 203.431.1942 or email HealthyWaysLLC@gmail.com.

Women’s Wisdom Retreat June 11-12

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emarkable women from around the area will gather together for an overnight retreat on Saturday, June 11, seeking inspiration, rejuvenation, and deeper spiritual connection. The Carol Shear Maria Castillo Women’s Wisdom Retreat will take place in a beautiful country setting at the Guest House Retreat and Conference Center in Chester, CT, less than an hour away from most points in Fairfield County.

The Retreat is designed with two transformational women’s empowerment workshops, yoga, meditation, hiking (optional), a crystal bowl healing concert and bonfire gathering - plus time for personal reflection and relaxation.

Holistic Life Coach Carol Shear will lead “Creating A Life You Love”. Shear’s work is dedicated to inspiring, encouraging and empowering women to “rise up” and explore the possibilities of taking charge of their lives in order to live a life they love, that authentically expresses who they are and meets their needs.

The second workshop, “Listening to Your Inner Wisdom” led by Holistic Psychotherapist Maria Castillo, will explore the practical spiritual tools of mindfulness, meditation, self-hypnosis, and past life regression, to support a deeper connection to each woman’s inner wisdom.

At night, Randeane Tetu, renowned Holographic Sound Healing and Melchizedek Method Master/Teacher and nationally recognized speaker and author, will perform a quartz crystal bowl and voice toning concert. Tetu is widely recognized as the most sought after crystal bowl healer in the CT region. Her concerts are said to facilitate an energy shift in and around the body to release outworn patterning, find balance, stimulate deep healing and re-establish holistic well-being. Morning yoga will be facailited by Grace Osora Erhart, certified yoga instructor, who will guide the group through physical asana practice, breathing and meditation so participants can connect with their energy source and participate fully, consciously, and healthfully in the retreat and beyond.

For more information and to register for the Women’s Wisdom Retreat, visit eNaturalAwakenings.com/FAIR/Womens-Wisdom-Retreat/.

See ad pg 63.

Visit over 100 Exhibitors!

This unique event will feature leading organizations in health and wellness from Connecticut and New York, including:

HealtHy, WealtHy & Wise Complimentary Healthy Food & Drink!

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by Gr een wich Y PG

T EN I NM TA ER ENT A TMK SPORTS &

Alternative Medicine, Integrative Nutrition Purchase Health and Wellness Cleansing and Detoxification with whole Products and Services organic raw foods and live juices Health and Wellness Door Prizes! organic, Natural, Nutritional Foods from top restaurants, caterers, grocery stores, green grocers Complimentary Parking! organic, Natural Vitamin Supplements organic Wines, Spirits and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Fitness, Dance & Yoga Demonstrations Activewear Fashion and organic Fabrics throughout the Expo! s Chiropractors Ho Ergonomics, Posture, Joint Health Fitness, Dance, Yoga For more information and to purchase Financial Health tickets go to: Healthy Homes and green Technology Health and Wellness Coaching Hosted by the For exhibit or sponsor information please call or email: Healthy Weight Loss Programs greenwich Young Professionals group TMK Sports & Entertainment, LLC Lifetime Sports Stamford Plaza Hotel 2701 Summer Street, Stamford Men’s Health 203.531.3047 TMKSandE@aol.com orthopaedics and Sports Medicine general Admission: Pet Wellness Senior Health and Wellness BRITTANY DECKER $20 pp before May 25 Spa and Beauty Treatments Miss Connecticut 2010 $25 pp May 25 and much more . . .

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May 2011

13

Brookfield Family Chiropractic Welcomes Dr. Bossio

B

rookfield Family Chiropractic announces the addition of Dr. Geoffrey Bossio to its office family. Dr. Bossio is a native of Brookfield. In the past, he was an active member of the community as a Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for many years with the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company - even joining in the search and rescue efforts in Manhattan in the days following 9-11. It was during his tenure as Geoffrey Bossio an emergency care provider, that Dr. Bossio developed his desire to provide personalized, quality care with an emphasis on preventive measures and patient education. He credits his rewarding years as a Firefighter/EMT, believing it was that experience that motivated him to pursue becoming a chiropractor. He says that he developed a strong sense of patient care and understanding as well as insight to the great importance of being part of a team of trained professionals and the benefits that working as a team provided to patients. Dr. Bossio looks forward to being an integral part of the community and partnering with patients to assist them in achieving optimal health for the future.

Dr. Bossio and Brookfield Family Chiropractic are located at 499 Federal Road. Call 203.775.7102 or visit BrookfieldFamilyChiropractic.com.

Holistic Partnership with Trees, Plants & Nature

T

ree Whispering ® experts Basia Alexander and Jim Conroy announce a workshop designed specially for Omega Institute: “Tree Whispering®–Holistic Partnership with Trees, Plants, and Nature”, on June 3 – 5. In this workshop, participants will learn how to make peace with the Plant Kingdom and replace attitudes of domination over Nature with new ways to interact based on partnership, cooperation, and equality. Participants will go on a meditative journey into trees’ inner dimensions to experience being the tree.

With the practice of Tree Whispering®, participants will tune up their ability to perceive, sense, feel, ask, listen, and communicate with Green Beings by coming from their point of view. They will experience a tree’s bio-energy field, ask about its state of health, and use hands-on, permission-based, holistic energy-healing methods, including “Healing Whispers” and will intuitively receive Nature’s messages. In mindful, sacred, and practical ways, they will learn how to do common plant or garden “holistic chores” in a cooperative partnership. Those who attend will graduate as a Tree Ambassador.

The cost of the workshop is $300. The workshop will be held at Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY. For more information or to register call 877.944.2002 or visit eOmega.com.

Have news to share?

Email submissions to: FFCeditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com by May 5 ReIkI FoR StReSS ReduCtIon Hilda Swaby Usui & Karuna Reiki Master Healer, Teacher ~ Crystal Therapy ~ Vericolor Flame LaHoChi Healing is focusing on cause, effect and treatment Crystals are blessed by John of God the Brazilian Healer Reiki I & II Classes Available Monthly Masterships and Healings

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14

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

coverartist

Flower Power

by Richard W. Schmidt Born in 1967 in Englewood, New Jersey, Richard Schmidt has been drawing inspiration from the world around him as far back as he can recollect. Some of his works reveal an interest in humanity and natural history, while others reflect an appreciation for narrative themes.

Whether abstract or realistic, Schmidt’s art is descriptive in line, color and composition, reflecting the integrity of his commitment to the moment and the concept. Rendered in pencil, pen and ink, watercolor and oil, his fine art and interior murals are in private collections throughout the country. His projects vary from traditional media on paper and canvas to large-scale installations.

“I work in several directions with regard to materials, technique, subject and intent, with themes ranging from the ancient to the contemporary, the real to the imaginary,” Schmidt advises.

“I am determined to create until my last day, and desire that my final breath be drawn with an implement of design in my hand.”

View the artist’s portfolio at RichardWSchmidt.com.

Acupuncture Natural Healthcare Nutrition Programs Chiropractic

Relieve pain and restore the body to optimal health... naturally Dr. Tom Worden dc, Director 41 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury

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May 2011

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Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens

2011 SPRING Garden Tour Tuesday, June 7, 2011 10am - 4pm Explore five local private gardens in addition to the Arboretum’s themed gardens.

Enjoy an outdoor luncheon and shop specialty boutiques.

Patron Party

Sunday evening, June 5.

Includes complimentary Garden Tour ticket and luncheon.

For ticket information call 203-322-6971 or visit www.bartlettarboretum.org The Bartlett Arboretum is a not for profit organization in Stamford.

16

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

masters of massage Mother’s Day is May 8 – Give the Gift of Massage!

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2011

17

healthykids

BABY ON BOARD PREPARING FOR PREGNANCY & MOTHERHOOD

by Jessica Iclisoy

It’s vital for a woman of any age to physically prepare for pregnancy and motherhood, for the health of both the mother and the baby. Start by speaking with a trusted medical practitioner, and then consider the following practical advice, geared to keep everyone healthy and happy through every stage of the childbirth process.

Get your body in shape. According to Mairi Breen Rothman, a certified nurse-midwife with the M.A.M.A.S., Inc. home birth practice, in Takoma Park, Maryland, being in shape ensures a healthier pregnancy. “Pregnancy is hard work, and the more strength you have, especially in your core, back and legs, the better you’ll feel during pregnancy,” she advises. Being in good physical shape before pregnancy can also make it easier to stay fit during the nine months that follow.

Getting Ready for Pregnancy

Start eating better. A balanced, organic diet provides the nutrients needed to raise a healthy developing baby. “During pregnancy, the baby is very much a part of its mother’s body,” says Rothman. “That means eating toxin-free foods, which cuts back on chemicals found in the mom’s body, will also limit chemical exposure to the baby.” Also remember to take a prenatal vitamin; a study by the MRC Epidemiology Resource Centre, at the University of Southampton, in the UK, found that only 5.5 percent of the 238 pregnant women monitored had taken the recommended 400 micrograms of folic acid each day prior to becoming pregnant.

Stop taking birth control pills. If you’ve been using a hormonal method of birth control, your doctor may want you to take several months off before trying to conceive. Doing so allows your cycles to regulate and clears your body of any lingering manmade hormones; use another form of non-hormonal birth control during this time.

Take care of chronic medical conditions. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma, for example, get it under control before becoming pregnant. Apprise your healthcare professional of any family health problems, so he or she can plan ahead once you conceive.

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natural awakenings

Having a Healthy Pregnancy Take prenatal yoga. “Prenatal yoga not only promotes long, lean and supple muscles, it also helps with breathing, which is important during labor and delivery,” counsels Rothman.

Yoga also helps open the hip and pelvic joints and eases the aches and pains of pregnancy. The cat-cow pose, in particular, benefits the lower back, promotes circulation and even helps move the baby into the proper birth position.

Limit exposure to toxins. Examine the labels of products you regularly use—especially skincare and cleaning products—and banish anything that contains a toxic soup of chemicals; if you can’t pronounce an ingredient, it’s probably not good for you or your growing baby. Research from leading institutions such as the University of California– Berkeley and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has linked personal care and cleaning product ingredients to endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, developmental and reproductive disorders and cancer. There are now plenty of easy-to-find, toxin-free product alternatives.

Green cleaners are available at most grocery stores and CosmeticsDatabase.com offers helpful guidance on safe beauty products suggested by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group.

Research alternative therapies. Taking drugs for common medical problems such as headaches, colds and muscle pain isn’t always the best approach. Speak with your midwife or obstetrician about options like acupuncture, massage and

homeopathy. According to a study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, Swedish researchers found acupuncture to be effective in relieving back and pelvic pain during pregnancy; of the 1,500 pregnant participants, 60 percent of those who tried acupuncture reported substantial pain relief.

Natural Mothering Strategies Breast is best. Although breast-feeding isn’t super easy, it’s the healthiest option. “Human milk is meant for human babies, so it’s exactly formulated to be just what babies need and what they can easily digest,” notes Rothman. Breastfeeding gives babies an immunity boost, so that they tend to get sick less often and receive just the right nutrition; it also provides a sense of comfort, warmth and security that bottle feeding can’t match.

Use natural remedies for illness. Aromatherapy and homeopathy remedies work to reduce mothers’ and babies’ exposure to over-the-counter drugs. For instance, eucalyptus makes a good natural decongestant; simply add a few drops into the bath, a diffuser or even onto a cotton ball that can be placed on a bedside table, for a soothing scent. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any natural measures that you are taking to support family health.

Jessica Iclisoy, a holistic mother and founder of California Baby natural baby care products, writes about natural living from Beverly Hills, CA. Connect at Jessica@CaliforniaBaby.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2011

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Defining Moments on the Journey to Conscious Creation

by Nina Antolino

I

n life, millions of moments sadly pass unnoticed. Often we are not fully awake to our experiences while they are happening. We walk our path habitually, reinforcing our deeply entrenched beliefs about who we are and what is possible. We vacillate between trying desperately to control everything in our life, and completely abdicating to some outside authority. We are pulled outside ourselves for the answers we seek, rather than looking inward and trusting our own guidance.

Every so often there are moments that cannot be ignored. Moments that have the power to wake us up, propel us in a new direction, help us to see our life and Self in a new light. Moments that challenge what we believe and change us forever. Sometimes they are found in a single instant of profound kindness or beauty. Often, they are hidden within our most challenging experiences. It is in these moments that we have the potential to discover the deeper messages and lessons of our life.

Such is the path toward considering motherhood. For many women, the defining moment comes with the words 20

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

“Congratulations, You’re pregnant!” For others, it can come when a woman suddenly realizes she may never hear those words. Contrary to any deeply held belief, even though she is now ready to start a family, the process simply does not flow as smoothly as she would have imagined. Nor does it inevitably end in the birth of a baby. Her birthright, her dream, eludes her. Couples that face such challenges may feel shattered, stressed and desperate for solutions.

Fortunately, there are many current avenues for couples to increase the chances of conceiving and find their way toward parenthood. Assisted Reproduction (and its many advances) has been the choice for many struggling with fertility. This has been a blessing to many women who have a chance to realize their parenting dreams. However, many of those who have gone through several “failed” cycles or don’t even qualify for treatment because their “FSH is too high” or they are “too old,” begin to internalize these self-limiting opinions. These beliefs often become a catalyst for further feelings of depression, blame, jealousy and increased emotional stress, which, in turn, can diminish fertility by affecting hormones and reproductive organs. This results in a vicious cycle, with the resultant failure to conceive creating added stress, which culminates in further loss of fertility.

But science is only one part of the magical equation. It does not define an individual or her intrinsic value. Rather, each woman must be compassionate with herself, recognize her mind-body-spirit connection, and embrace her power to consciously create the “life” she wants.

As Dr. Christiane Northrup states, “Regardless of what you have been told about your fertility, you need to know that your ability to conceive is profoundly influenced by the complex interaction among psychosocial, psychological and

“Regardless of what you have been told about your fertility, your ability to conceive is profoundly influenced by the complex interaction among psychosocial, psychological and emotional factors.” ~ Christiane Northrup emotional factors, and that you can consciously work with this to enhance your ability to have a baby.”

It is vital for women wanting to conceive to incorporate A Whole Fertility Approach for balance in her body, mind, spirit…and life. This includes: An Integrative Approach to Fertility A woman wanting to follow a more natural path, create balance and healing in the body, and increase the chances of conceiving, may integrate holistic approaches such as acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, nutrition, yoga, meditation and other relaxation techniques into her life. Each can be used as a stand alone practice or a complementary technique to enhance success with western medicine treatments. Together these are a powerful approach.

Empowerment Taking charge of fertility begins with becoming informed about options, turning inward for answers, and learning to identify and shift thoughts, beliefs and emotions that don’t support one’s process. It is key to recognize that the fertility journey impacts (and is impacted by) all areas of life. This in turn provides the insight needed to begin transforming any perceived limitations into rich, fertile ground to plant new seeds of possibility and enhance the ability of each woman to consciously create the “life” she wants.

Spirituality Recognize that the universe plays an important role in creation of life and there is so much more to conception than the right physical union of sperm meets egg. Connect to the greater purpose and meaning of life, trust in the body’s wisdom, nurture spirit, and em-

brace creative limitless potential. Connect with others on a similar journey.

The ultimate aim is to believe in, and achieve, new possibilities, with each person inspired to reach his/her fullest potential.

It is important to recognize that not every journey ends in a successful pregnancy. However, the exploration of the soul has the power to lead to other beautiful outcomes if one remains open. What if, a woman goes through the process of getting in touch with her inner spirit, lets go of control and takes steps to create balance in her body and life, yet it still doesn’t lead to a successful pregnancy? For example, what if it leads to adoption and that is the destiny of both parent and child? Or if it deepens a woman’s ability to find her own truth, and create new possibilities for her life…ones she hadn’t even imagined before she began this voyage?

Isn’t that just as beautiful? It may not be what was expected or initially desired, but this process can invite every person to be more present to each moment and inspire new clarity about one’s life purpose. In the end, isn’t that what the soul journey is for? Could there be any moment more defining than that?

Nina Antolino is a certified Empowerment Life Coach, Yoga Instructor and Founder of Limitless Potential, a consulting and coaching practice designed to help individuals and organizations tap into their full creative potential.

Through coaching and workshops, one main area of Nina’s focus is to educate, empower and encourage women to be conscious creators in each phase of the life-creating cycle: from conception, pregnancy, birth and beyond. For more information, visit Limitless-Potential.net or email nantolino@aol.com. See ad pg 12.

Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut Danbury, Greenwich, Norwalk

877-618-2533 www.rmact.com

mind body baby

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

We’re here when you’re ready...

Join Our Community in the Fight Against Cancer 1.800.227.2345 relayforlife.org

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• Start a team • Volunteer • Honor cancer survivors and caregivers May 2011

21

fairfieldgreen Be the solution.

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

Bartlett’s Spring Tour of Private Gardens

T

he Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens’ Spring Garden Tour will take place on Tuesday, June 7, showcasing five private gardens, in addition to the Arboretum’s themed gardens. The Tour’s destinations were selected for their vegetable gardens, creative use of space, and beauty. UConn Master Gardeners will be on hand at each garden to answer questions on horticulture and gardening practices, and there will be plein air artists and musicians in the gardens. Participants may also enjoy a tented luncheon on the beautiful Arboretum grounds and a Patron Party on Sunday, June 5. This will be an evening of catered hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a Broadway Cabaret performance by Christina Connors. Patron Party tickets include complimentary admission to the Tour and Luncheon. The Garden Boutique, featuring specialty household and garden items and apparel, will be open on June 7 for visitors. The Bartlett is a rare resource in the heart of Fairfield County, with an extraordinary diversity of plant species and habitats, rare and exquisite collections, and a staff of specialists. Proceeds will support the environmental programs of the Arboretum and the upkeep of the 91-acre living museum.

Event Times: • The Patron Party on Sunday, June 5 will be held from 5 to 7 p.m.

• The Garden Tour on Tuesday, June 7 will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• The Tented Luncheon on June 7 will be held from noon to 2 p.m.

• The Garden Boutique will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 7.

The Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is located at 151 Brookdale Road, Stamford, off the Merritt Parkway, exit 35. For Tour and Patron Party tickets, phone 203.322.6971 or visit BartlettArboretum.org. See ad pg 16.

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natural awakenings

Landrigan, Gavigan Address “Greening Our Children” Luncheon

O

Two Coyotes Wilderness School

n Monday, May 9, the fourth annual Mount Sinai Greening Our Children benefit luncheon will take place at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich for the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center.

The keynote speaker will be Philip J. Landrigan, MD, Ethel H. Wise Professor and Chair of the Department of Preventive Medicine and the Director of Mt. Sinai’s Children’s Environmental Health Center, who will present his team’s most recent research and discuss what actions parents can take to keep children safe. Dr. Landrigan is known for his many decades of work in protecting children against environmental threats to health. He will be joined by Christopher Gavigan, author of the best-selling book, Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home. A Huffington Post blogger and the former CEO of Healthy Child Healthy World, he has led public awareness campaigns and educational programs that inform parents about the daily choices that impact our children’s health. The mission of the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center (CEHC) is to protect children from toxic chemicals in the air, water, and food by spearheading efforts to track the root environmental causes of disease. The Center’s research builds on over three decades of work by its director, Dr. Landrigan.

For further information about Greening Our Children, visit the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Center’s website at MountSinaiGOCLuncheon.org or call Eileen Solomon, Director of Special Events at 212.824.8251.

We all have a hand in creating the community

Living Earth Summer Camps

Day-camp dates Wilderness I June 27-July 1, August 1-5 Nature and the Arts July 11-15, August 15-19 Wildwood Rangers August 29-September 2nd Teen Wilderness Adventure July 18-22 Bow Making Camp

August 22-26 Camps are held at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown, CT for children ages 5-16.

Small class sizes and experienced adult staff ensure a rich experience.

www.TwoCoyotes.org for more info and to register

where we want to live.

The support of our wonderful advertisers is what makes it possible for us to provide this free resource to you every month.

Please support the businesses that support us... And be sure to mention you saw them in Natural Awakenings!

Thank you! eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2011

23

Sustainable Square Foot Gardening How to Boost Your Health and the Health of Our Planet…from a Box!

by Amie Guyette Hall

“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” ~ Hippocrates

P

icture a piece of graph paper, only 4 squares across and 4 squares down. Now picture each of those squares measuring 12 inches, or one foot each. This 4’ X 4’ square will become your powerhouse to health. Join people of all ages, from all stages of life, across the globe as you discover the ease and joy of Square Foot Gardening! No work, no weeds, no kidding!

All you need is a little motivation and interest in taking a teeny, tiny step toward a healthier, happier you. Square Foot Gardening is an easy way to save money, eat well and feel energized. You will become more connected to where your food comes from, how old your food is and how far it has traveled. As a result, your body will be thanking you, and you’ll be thanking yourself for learning about the freshest, simplest, most economical and environmentally friendly way to optimize your health!

Simply put, it is an easy and successful gardening method where you build a box – fill it with perfect, weed free soil, called Mel’s Mix, place a grid on top and then plant a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers in each square.

You plant one, 4, 9 or 16 seeds in each square foot depending

on how large the plant grows.

SFG Ideas: The seeds you plant will be the • Humanitarian Efforts plants you grow, harvest and • Public/Home Schools eat. There is no thinning out or • Eagle Scout Projects waste of seeds.

• Young Women Projects

Just like the human body, • Senior Centers/Hospitals in order to thrive and grow • Community Gardens your Square Foot Garden it • Home Gardens needs plenty of water. Water comes from rain or by hand. To water your Square Foot Garden by hand, take a cupful of sun warmed water and gently pour this on the base of the plant.

As you nurture what you grow, the food you grow and eat will nurture you. Your box becomes a patchwork quilt of nutrient dense food, full of vital life force. Square Foot Gardening teaches built-in sustainability, as one square is harvested a trowel full of compost is added. The seeds you select to plant next, teach crop rotation. Planting can begin in early spring and continue into early fall. This is usually done two to three times during the growing season. Build enclosure for continued year round growing.

Picture your Square Foot Garden as a patchwork quilt – perhaps a crazy quilt! Include the colors of the rainbow! You can grow as many as 16 different crops at one time – what does that look like to you? Start with ABC - arugula, beans,

Unity Center

For Practical Spirituality

Our mission is to continually discover, demonstrate, and educate that our source of Good is God within.

- Weekly Events

Thought Exchange, every Monday at 7 p.m.

The Workbook Lessons, from A Course in Miracles, every Monday at 10 a.m.

A Course in Miracles, every Tuesday at 7 p.m. & every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

- Monthly Events

Music, Meditation and (possibly) Mayhem, Sunday, May 27th at 6 p.m.

Reiki Healing Circle, Thursday, May 26th at 7 p.m.

Metphysical Movie Night, Friday, May 13th at 7 p.m.

For more information and for Special Events at Unity, please visit us on the web!

Rev. Shawn Moninger

24

Fairfield County Edition

3 Main St., Norwalk, CT 06851 www.unitycenterps.org 203-855-7922

natural awakenings

- Unity -

A Spiritual Philosophy For Positive Living!

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Childcare Provided

The Good Bookstore is open Sundays after the Celebration Service.

and carrots and keep going from there.

When we plant and grow a variety of vegetables, we are more likely to prepare and eat them. Kale and bok choy are two sources of dark leafy greens which are a key nutrient most missing from the Standard American Diet (SAD). These plants hydrate us and help rid the body of toxins. Sweet root vegetables like carrots and beets help us to focus and lessen sugar cravings.

We ask students, “What impact does having a garden at school or home have on our world?” Their answers include that we use less fuel, it reduces our carbon footprint, and that we aren’t using plastics or other packaging that might not be recycled and go into the landfills.

Growing and consuming nutrient dense foods that have been grown from organic non-GMO or GE seed, without pesticides and herbicides using this easy sustainable method is something everyone can do – at home, at school and in any community location.

Small steps, easy steps that will boost your health and the health of our planet. Happy Square Foot Gardening!

Square Foot Gardening was created by Mel Bartholomew in 1981.

Books include The All New Square Foot Gardening Book, The Square Foot Gardening Cookbook, and The Square Foot Gardening Lesson Plan Book for Teachers. For additional information, and to “Boost Your Health from a Box” readers may access a FREE recorded teleclass at Kendall-Scott.HealthCoach.

IntegrativeNutrition.com/Square-FootGardening.

Amie Guyette Hall is Holistic Health Coach based in Fairfield. Her business, From Your Inside Out, offers programs connecting children and families to their food. If you, your school or group, or organization is interested in learning more about upcoming Square Foot Gardening workshops, events and demos contact Amie at 203.256.0426 or visit FromYourInsideOut.com.

The Ten Basics of Square Foot Gardening • LAYOUT: Arrange your garden in squares, not rows. Lay it out in 4’ by 4’ areas.

• BOXES: Build boxes to hold a new soil mix above ground – only 6 inches deep.

• AISLES: Space boxes 3’ apart to form walking aisles.

• SOIL: Fill boxes with special soil mix: 1/3 compost (made from many different ingredients), 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 coarse vermiculite. Existing soil doesn’t matter.

• GRID: Make a square foot grid for the top of each box to organize the garden for planting.

• CARE: Never walk on the growing soil. Tend your garden from the aisles. Few, if any, weeds sprout and are easily pulled with fingers. Soil stays loose and friable. Easy to protect from weather.

• SELECT: Plant a different flower, vegetable, or herb crop in each square foot, using spacing of 1, 4, 9 or 16 plants per square foot. Crop rotation happens naturally.

• PLANT: Conserve seeds. Plant only a pinch (2 or 3 seeds) per hole. Place transplants in a slight saucer-shaped depression. Plant only what you will use during each season. No waste.

• WATER: Ideally water by hand from a bucket of sun-warmed water (hose or drip system okay).

• HARVEST: When you finish harvesting a square foot, add compost to replenish nutrients and replant with a new and different crop.

Location • Pick an area that gets 6-9 hours

of sunshine daily.

• Stay clear of trees/shrubs where

roots/shade may interfere.

• Have it close to the house for

convenience and protection.

• Existing soil is not really impor-

tant. You won’t be using it.

• Area must not puddle after a

heavy rain.

Health Impact

M

any people across our nation might agree that the average American eats mostly what comes from a box. Most boxed “foods” have lengthy ingredient lists containing numerous items that the average consumer is often unable to pronounce and left wondering what it actually is.

School health and cooking curriculum teaches our children to read these food labels. Childhood obesity and diabetes rates are skyrocketing. Individuals suffer from a vast array of chronic and life threatening illnesses. Our nation’s health is at stake. We know we should eat more vegetables, but do we?

What can you, the average eater and consumer do about this? With Square Foot Gardening you’ll find out how it’s never been easier to save money, eat well, feel energized and refreshed, and be a lot more connected to where your food is coming from. As a result, your body will be thanking you, and you’ll be thanking yourself for learning about the freshest, simplest, most economical and environmentally friendly way to optimize your health!

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2011

25

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

Relax...and discover the direction of your inner compass.

We have created the ideal space and location to help you take a much deserved break from the “doing” and practice “being.”

Clinical Massage Therapy Acupuncture • Hypnosis Yoga • Chi Fit • Qi-Gong Tai Chi Easy • Health Workshops

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Bicycle Economy

May is National Bike Month

Clinical Massage Therapy

Bikeway networks are emerging along lowYoga • Chi Fit • urban, Qi-Gong traffic streets as residents employ increasing pedal Tai Chi Easy power in cities like Cambridge, Massachusetts; New Acupuncture • Francisco.

Hypnosis York City; Portland, Oregon; and San Tourism and transportation trend watchers note that Health Workshops the amount of on-street bicycle parking provides a ready gauge to how rider-friendly a city is.

Still, according to the findings of a National Household Travel Survey that 40 percent of all trips we make are two miles or less, the International Relax...And discover the11 Bicycle Fund (IBF) reports that Americans choose a bike over a car for only direction of your inner compass. percent of these trips. In Europe, which favors walkable cities, Amsterdam comWe haveofcreated thefollowed ideal space muters lead the way by choosing their bikes 28 percent the time, by and location to help youKingdom take a 20 percent in Denmark, 10 percent in Germany, 8 percent in the United much deserved break from the and 5 percent in both France and Italy (versus 1 percent

by U.S. city commuters). “doing” and practice “being.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, at least a quarter of Americans age 16 and older will likely ride a 635 bicycle sometime thisRidgefield, summer. CT Danbury Road, The National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes notes that 26 percent of 208.403.2522 American bicyclists ride for recreation, and 24 percent for health. Additional reawww.move2wellness.com sons include getting home (14 percent), errands (14 percent), visiting (10 percent), commuting to school or work (5 percent) and “other.”

BikeLeague.org, the official website for Bike-to-Work Week, May 16-20, hosts a searchable database of bike clubs and ride resources.

Smile Factor

Which States Have the Happiest People?

A telephone survey conducted from January 1 through December 31, 2010, randomly sampling the views of more than 350,000 U.S. adults, shows that Hawaii ranks in first place in terms of residents’ happiness, earning a rating of 71 on a 100-point scale. Other winners in the Top 10 happiness sweepstakes are Wyoming, North Dakota, Alaska, Colorado, Minnesota, South Dakota, Utah, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Even West Virginia, which ranked last, earned 61.7 points.

The survey, conducted by the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, looked at six categories of well-being. These included life evaluation (self-evaluation about one’s present life situation and what is anticipated in five years); emotional health; work environment (such as job satisfaction); physical health; healthy behavior; and basic access to services like health care, a safe place to walk, and community.

“When human beings give you an answer on a numerical scale about how satisfied they are with their lives, it is best to pay attention,” comments Andrew Oswald of the University of Warwick, UK, based on his 2008 findings from a similar survey of 1.3 million Americans. “Their answers are reliable.”

For the rankings of all 50 states, see tinyurl.com/ 4lre9tk. For the daily national happiness index, see Well-BeingIndex.com.

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natural awakenings

Bundled Deductibles

Breast-feeding Benefits Now Recognized by the IRS Until its 2011 decision for the 2010 tax year, the Internal Revenue Service did not classify breast-feeding supplies as tax deductible because it viewed them as nutritional benefits, instead of medical care expenses.

Now, under a new ruling, nursing mothers can write off breast-feeding equipment if they have flexible spending accounts or if their total medical expenses exceed 7.5 percent of their adjusted gross income.

U.S. Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin has issued a call to action to support breast-feeding, stating that it can protect babies from infections and illnesses, including pneumonia and diarrhea. Breast-fed babies are also less likely to develop asthma and to become obese, according to the report. First Lady Michelle Obama has declared her support for breastfeeding as part of her campaign against child obesity.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has spent years trying to roll back the push for infant formula, trumpeting the benefits of breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of life (the World Health Organization promotes breast-feeding for two years). A recent Harvard Medical School study published in the journal Pediatrics estimated that if 90 percent of American women breast-fed, 900 premature, infant deaths would be prevented and patients and hospitals would see savings of $13 billion in lost wages and saved health care costs. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Farm Aid

Urban Forest

Residents of Sedgwick, Maine, have unanimously voted to adopt a Local Food and SelfGovernance Ordinance, setting a precedent for other towns looking to preserve small-scale farming and food processing. Sedgwick is the first town in the state, and perhaps the nation, to exempt direct farm sales from state and federal licensing and inspection. The ordinance also exempts foods made in the home kitchen, similar to the Michigan Cottage Food Law passed last year, but without caps on gross sales or restrictions on types of exempt foods.

Local farmer Bob St. Peter explains: “This ordinance creates favorable conditions for beginning farmers and cottagescale food processors to try out new products, and to make the most of each season’s bounty.”

St. Peter, who serves on the board of the National Family Farm Coalition (nffc.net), based in Washington, D.C., sees this as a model ordinance for rural economic development. “It’s tough making a go of it in rural America,” he continues. “Rural working people have always had to do a little of this and a little of that to make ends meet. But up until the last couple of generations, we didn’t need a special license or new facility each time we wanted to sell something to our neighbors.”

As a result, “Small farmers and producers have been getting squeezed out in the name of food safety, yet it’s the industrial food that is causing food-borne illness, not us.”

Banners created by local designers, artists and students are appearing on light posts at hightraffic locations throughout cities participating in the Urban Forest Project. Each banner’s design must be a metaphor for the tree, a symbol of sustainability, and a visual statement about valuing the environment.

Originally conceived by Worldstudio to promote going green and bring life to light posts in New York City’s Times Square in 2006, the project has taken root in Albuquerque, Baltimore, Denver, Portland, Oregon, and Toledo, Ohio.

New, colorfully eco-conscious tree banners will be sprouting this spring in San Francisco, Tacoma, Washington, and Washington, D.C. “We anticipate the artwork and banners… will act as a visual awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy canopy in not only our city, but throughout the world,” says Adrian M. Fenty, former mayor of the District of Columbia.

After they were removed from Times Square, the banners were recycled into one-of-a-kind tote bags, with sales proceeds going to mentoring programs and the creative arts in New York City. Initially, “That was supposed to be the end of the story, except the project apparently had resonance with a lot of people from different communities,” says Andréa Pellegrino of Worldstudio. “We started receiving unsolicited outreach from communities all over the world.”

Maine Town Passes Landmark Local Food Ordinance

Tree Banner Design Contests Sprout in U.S. Cities

Read the Local Food and Self-Governance Ordinance at tinyurl.com/46kswcm.

Learn more at ufp-global.com.

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Clotheslines Make a Comeback Eco-minded people who love to save money on their utility bills, shun dryer-sheet chemicals on their clothes, and adore snuggling into fresh-smelling, sun-dried bedding are part of a growing movement that is choosing line drying over machines. The Pew Research Center’s triennial U.S. survey gauging demand for household appliances reports a public U-turn: These days, 66 percent of Americans consider a machine dryer as a necessity, down sharply from 83 percent in 2006. While 75 percent of U.S. households currently own a clothes dryer, they are considered a luxury in Europe, where only about half of households on the continent own one, according to the Netherlands Statistical Office.

According to the recent Residential Energy Consumption Survey by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, clothes dryers consume as much as 6 percent of total residential household energy in the nation. In the process, an electric dryer emits more than a ton of carbon dioxide each year—a gas dryer about half the amount. Even line drying just one load of laundry instead of using an electric dryer keeps 3.35 pounds of CO2 out of the atmosphere. Furthermore, line drying itself emits no CO2.

Natural outdoor drying time is much easier on fabrics, especially knits and elastics, and sidesteps shrinkage. “Where do you think lint comes from?” inquires Project Laundry List; it’s your clothes literally falling apart, due to tumbling and overheating.

Line drying can be a boon to busy people who don’t have to worry about being present when the dryer shuts off to avoid wrinkling; it can also eliminate the need for ironing, yielding additional energy savings. Line dryers save money on whiteners and dryer sheets, because sunlight is a natural bleaching agent and disinfectant that delivers the genuine, fresh smell of sun-dried clothes that chemicals try to mimic. As a further bonus, line drying eases wear and tear on an expensive appliance, so that the machine can stay in service longer and stay out of the local landfill.

A variety of different types of clotheslines are available today for use both indoors and outdoors, from a simple do-it-yourself clothesline to retractable lines and collapsible umbrella models. Drying racks also have folding frames for space-efficient storage.

All of these free benefits can work to effectively counter those who mandate consumption and waste by arguing against clotheslines because of perceived aesthetic and property value concerns. Individuals who get a negative response from their community or homeowner’s association about installing a clothesline may need to address community covenants, landlord prohibitions, and zoning laws. LaundryList.org offers helpful counsel and resources through its advocacy programs.

As an easy first step, sign the Right2Dry.org online petition.

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BE IN THE KNOW ABOUT

GMOs Untold Risks, Unanswered Questions and Needed Action

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nyone walking into a typical American supermarket finds a dizzying display of more than 40,000 products, the majority of which are processed foods. According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, at least 75 percent of the processed foods contain one or more genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, most likely from corn, soy and canola. With the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recent approval of GMO alfalfa and sugar beets, non-GMO choices will grow even narrower. What is a healthconscious consumer to do?

Heads Up What many people don’t realize is that the majority of GMO crops have been genetically engineered to withstand spraying with herbicides, such as Monsanto’s Roundup. Its active toxic ingredient, glyphosate, is systemically transported throughout the plant and into our environment and food chain.

According to the American Academy of Environmental Medicine, “There is more than a casual association between GMO foods and adverse health effects.” Scientists familiar with the technology warn about the risk for new allergens, toxins and unpredictable, hard-to-detect side effects. Even the President’s Cancer Panel Report advises against choosing foods grown with pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers.

natural awakenings

Most Americans are shocked to learn that for decades now, they’ve been blindly purchasing and feeding their families GE foods, not to mention toxic herbicide residues. Unlike other developed countries, the U.S. government does not require labels on GMO foods, leaving citizens to shop—and eat—in the dark.

Dangerous Developments Thanks to lobbying by the biotechnology industry, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has taken the stand that

GMOs are “substantially equivalent” to their non-genetically modified counterparts. Therefore, labeling a GMO food product would be admitting that the GE products are somehow different.

However, genetically modified crops are different. Don Huber, Ph.D., a plant pathologist and professor emeritus at Purdue University, says that when scientists insert genetic material from one organism into another that would not normally crossbreed or be possible with standard breeding programs, they disrupt an entire system.

For example, both Huber and Warren Porter, Ph.D., a biologist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, explain that glyphosate disrupts the soil’s complex microbiological system, critical for delivering micronutrients to plants. This both increases the plants’ susceptibility to diseases and reduces the nutritional quality of food crops.

Farmers were told that GMO technology could simplify weed control and increase yields. Yet, according to The Organic Center, since the introduction of GE crops, nationwide pesticide use has increased substantially, by a total of more than 300 million pounds. The Union of Concerned Scientists reports that claims for higher yields have fallen short, as well.

Now, new superweeds have developed resistance to glyphosate, and the biotech giants have responded by promoting new GE plants, resistant

to stronger herbicides such as 2,4-D. The Pesticide Action Network of North America continues to collect research that links this suspected endocrine disruptor to thyroid problems, prostate cancer, reproductive abnormalities, Parkinson’s disease and delays in brain development. Both Porter and Chuck Benbrook, chief scientist at The Organic Center, warn that, as confirmed in multiple studies, pregnant women and children are most susceptible to harm.

Making matters worse, the Organic Seed Alliance reports that there is, “unwanted spread of GE pollen and seed into organic agricultural systems,” and the genetic contamination of non-GMO crops.

Roundup Ready alfalfa grieves Chris Blanchard the most. Blanchard, an organic farmer in Decorah, Iowa, explains: “Alfalfa is pollinated by bees, which can travel for miles, so we can be certain that seed stocks will be contaminated, threatening the livelihoods of organic farmers.”

and cottonseed oils, and sugar from sugar beets.

What We Can Do

The Organic Center, Organic-Center.org

It’s up to informed consumers to increase demand for non-GMO and organic foods. Here’s an effective action plan to protect our health and save Planet Earth.

American Academy of Environmental Medicine’s Genetically Modified Food Position Paper, aaemonline.org/ gmopost.html

n Read ingredient labels and vote with your food dollars. Reject products likely to contain GMOs, such as dextrose, corn starch, corn syrup or corn sugar, soy lecithin, canola

Melinda Hemmelgarn is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and radio host based in Columbia, MO. Reach her at FoodSleuth@gmail.com and tune in to Food Sleuth Radio at kopn.org.

n Choose certified organic foods. They are our single best bet for avoiding GMO ingredients, synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, antibiotics and hormones.

n Call or write President Obama, your state representatives and food manu facturers. Voice opposition to GMO crops and demand GMO-food labeling. n Grow some food using organic seeds. n Stay informed and don’t be duped.

Here are some helpful resources: Center for Food Safety, CenterForFoodSafety.org Radio interviews with Warren Porter (2/18/10) and Don Huber (4/21/11) on kopn.org, tinyurl.com/yjhurre

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healthbriefs

Hot Flashes Signal Good News

W

omen who have experienced hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms may have as much as a 50 percent lower risk of developing the most common forms of breast cancer than postmenopausal women who have never had such symptoms, according to a new study by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Commenting on the study, breast cancer Oncologist Dr. Stefan Gluck, of the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, observes that the reduction in risk evidently linked to a natural decrease in estrogen is substantial. “At age 50, a woman has on average, a 2 percent risk of getting breast cancer; so if she experiences menopausal symptoms, the risk is suddenly only 1 percent,” he says.

More Reasons to See a Dentist Regularly

A

study led by a University of California researcher gives women an extra incentive to visit their dentist regularly.

Data collected from nearly 7,000 participants suggests that women who receive regular dental care reduce their risk of heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular problems by at least one-third. The findings, published in the journal Health Economics, compared people who visited the dentist during the last two years with those who did not.

Chemical Alert

A

ccording to a new study from the University of California–San Francisco, the bodies of virtually all U.S. pregnant women carry multiple manmade chemicals. Some of those counted are found in flame retardants now banned in many states; some were used in the DDT pesticide that was banned nationwide in 1972. Other chemicals of concern continue to be used in non-stick cookware, packaging of processed foods such as metal cans, and personal care products.

Because chemicals can cross from the mother through the placenta and enter the fetus, exposure during fetal development is problematic. The researchers note that prior studies have shown that such exposure increases the risk of preterm birth, birth defects and childhood morbidity, as well as adult diseases and earlier mortality. The new study marks the first time that the number of chemicals that pregnant women are exposed to has been counted; it analyzed for a total of 163 possible chemicals.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

How Laser Heat Fights Wrinkles

L

aser treatments have long been widely used by beauticians and dermatologists to smooth wrinkles; now research reveals why the treatments work. Susanna Dams, Ph.D., describes the process in her biomedical engineering doctoral dissertation for Eindhoven University of Technology. The principle of laser therapy involves introducing heat under the skin with precision.

Dams first tested the effect of heat on cell cultures by giving them heat shocks of 113 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit without a laser, to exclude possible effects generated by the laser light. Next, she conducted similar tests on pieces of excised human skin. Finally, she heated pieces of skin with a laser.

The results showed that the heat shocks led to increased production of collagen—a crucial factor in natural skin rejuvenation that declines after the age of 25, causing wrinkles to form and skin to sag. The best rejuvenation effect in Dams’ research resulted from a heat shock of 113 degrees lasting eight to 10 seconds; her work further showed that just two seconds at the higher temperature damages skin cells.

Watercress May Help Bust Cancer Watercress not only adds unusual texture and tang to a salad, it may also contribute an unexpected health benefit. A short-term pilot study by the University of Southampton, UK, indicates that the plant compound phenylethyl isothiocyanate, found in unusually high concentrations in the peppery herb, may help suppress breast cancer by interfering with a protein function that spurs cancer cell development. The compound apparently works to block the signal that a tumor sends out, calling for surrounding normal tissues to grow new blood vessels to feed it, thus starving the tumor of oxygen and nutrients. More research is needed.

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Natural Beauty — HEAD TO TOE A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Best

by Frances Lefkowitz

I

skin, as well, and comprises vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, such as olive oil.

As for key foods, helpful antioxidants are found in berries and brightly colored fruits; Tannis especially likes kiwis and raspberries. Seeds and nuts have well-known anti-inflammatory properties, as well as minerals that form the building blocks of healthy skin and hair. Studies in the British Journal of Nutrition and elsewhere indicate that omega-3 oil, from borage, flaxseed, or fatty, saltwater fish like salmon can help hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness.

According to research from the University of Brussels, silica—present in cucumbers, rhubarb, bean sprouts and other veggies—seems to play a role in skin hydration, as well as the formation of healthy nails and hair.

Because skin, nails and hair all need a range of nutrients to grow, repair, and rejuvenate, Tannis also suggests a good multivitamin supplement. Finally, drinking plenty of water is vital to keeping skin hydrated from the inside out.

s it true that, You’re only as pretty as you feel? Yes, says Alan Dattner, a New York medical doctor and pioneer in holistic dermatology. “The most important thing that people can do for beauty,” he says, “is to come from peace, joy, appreciation and happiness inside, and let that radiate out on their faces.”

Many experts agree: The secret to true beauty is to work from the inside out, as well as the outside in, reducing exposure to toxins of all sorts, including stress, and watching what we put in the body, as well as what we put on it. Here’s how Natural Awakenings’ panel of beauty professionals answered when asked how we can take good care of skin, hair and nails, and look our best, naturally.

SKIN How do I keep my skin resilient, clear and looking youthful?

“Lifestyle issues, including stress, have a huge impact on skin,” advises Allison Tannis, a registered holistic nutritionist and author of Feed Your Skin, Starve Your Wrinkles. Before spending money on creams and treatments, look at your eating, sleeping, working, playing and exercising habits. “Stress, whether environmental or internal, increases the body’s production of free radicals, which leads to damage of cells, including skin cells,” Tannis explains. So, anti-stress activities, and just relaxing, boost your appearance. Adequate sleep is also crucial for cellular rejuvenation, which is why signs of sleep deprivation show up in the face immediately, 34

Fairfield County Edition

ranging from pimples and puffiness to creases and dark, under-eye circles.

A healthy skin diet is high in antiinflammatory foods and antioxidants that fight free radicals. Tannis notes that, “Inflammation disorganizes the skin’s complex infrastructure that keeps it tight and strong.” Basically, a diet that’s good for the body is great for the

natural awakenings

HAIR Labels on my hair care products show a long list of unpronounceable ingredients. Is it possible to get great hair without dumping all these chemicals on it?

It’s smart to be concerned about the ingredients in hair care and skincare products, because they are subject to little official regulation and may include ingredients that are not only ineffective,

but harmful to health and damaging to hair and skin. That’s why green living expert Renée Loux, author of Easy Green Living, makes environmentally friendly choices. “If it’s toxic for the Earth, it’s probably toxic for our bodies, too,” she believes.

Complex ingredient lists often make it hard to know what we’re applying.

Fortunately, consumer advocates like Loux (ReneeLoux.com) and the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) have done our homework for us.

When choosing products, Loux’s rule of thumb is, “plants over petroleum.” In other words, if the primary ingredients—listed in descending order by percentage in a shampoo, conditioner, gel, serum or mousse—are botanical or plant-derived ingredients, you and the planet are probably safe. Petroleum and petrochemicals—which are commonly used in many hair care products and are derived from a non-renewable resource—don’t break down well into natural components in the environment and may be harmful to human health. Loux also pays special attention to the, last few ingredients listed on the label because this is where innocuoussounding toxins often hide, perhaps as a fragrance or colorant.

In the shampoo category, Loux likes low-sudsing versions, because suds are typically created by syntheticfoaming agents called sulfates (sodium lauryl sulfate is common) that may irritate skin and poison the environment.

With hair color, look for a stylist that uses low-ammonia dyes, or buy them yourself in health food stores and natural pharmacies; temporary colorants are safer than permanent dyes. “The deeper

While the European Union has banned 1,100 chemicals from cosmetics, the United States has banned just 10. Only 11 percent of chemicals used in cosmetics in the United States have been assessed for health and safety. ~ The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (SafeCosmetics.org) the color, the more important it is to look at the ingredients,” counsels Loux.

FACE With so many products and spa treatments to choose from, I’m confused about what my skin really needs to look its best. What are the basic necessities for a natural skincare routine?

Cleansing (morning and night for oily skin, just at bedtime for dry skin) and moisturizing (all skin types) are the basics of daily skincare, according to dermatology physician Jeanette Jacknin, author of Smart Medicine for Your Skin and founder of the J.J.M.D. Botanical Dermatology skincare line. She says that soaps are generally too harsh and drying for facial skin, so use a non-soap cleanser instead, preferably one that is pH balanced. Oily skin will need a toner after washing to control oil secretion, and then a moisturizer, while dry

skin can go straight to the moisturizer.

“Men’s skin is actually thicker, rougher, and more oily and sweaty than women’s skin,” notes Jacknin. “Also, men have the special challenges of a beard. So, while a man may borrow his wife’s or girlfriend’s lotion, he may also want to find a skincare line made especially for him.”

The next two steps in Jacknin’s natural skincare routine are exfoliation, to remove dead skin cells from the skin surface, and facial masks, which deepclean, nourish and revitalize skin. These steps should be done once or twice a week, depending on skin type and the strength of the exfoliator or mask.

Exfoliates come in two forms: abrasives, which physically rub off the dead skin cells; and chemical, which dissolve or peel away the surface skin layer. Natural abrasives include oatmeal and sugar granules, while fruit sugars and fruit acids, from pumpkin, apple or papaya, for example, provide natural chemical peels. Look for products with fruit-derived exfoliates or make your own (Jacknin recommends Skin-CareRecipes-and-Remedies.com). Take advantage of professional exfoliation and facial treatments by estheticians and spas that use professional product lines with plant-based ingredients.

The final step in any skincare routine is sun protection. Wearing essential clothing, including hats, sunglasses and long sleeves, and staying out of the midday sun are dermatologist Dattner’s first choices for protecting skin from rays that can age and damage it. When in the sun, wear a mineral-based sun block such as zinc oxide, which stays on top of the skin, rather than getting

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absorbed, and forms a physical barrier to both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays. Also, watch out for nano-minerals; these have been broken into particles small enough to be absorbed by the skin during the manufacturing process, with possibly harmful results, according to Dattner, Loux and other experts.

Unfortunately, the U.S. government does not require that nano-minerals be listed on labels, so consumers must do their own research.

What about makeup? As Loux points out, the skin absorbs 60 percent of what goes on it, and many cosmetics are full of unregulated, untested petrochemicals. Does that mean you shouldn’t wear any makeup? Not at all. Makeup artist Jessa Blades, of Blades Natural Beauty (BladesNaturalBeauty. com), says that switching over to natural, safe, mineral- and plant-based cosmetics is easy, as long as you are realistic. In general, the fewer ingredients used, the safer the product.

“Give natural products a bit of time, and don’t be so hard on them,” she suggests. Her natural eyeliner requires reapplying a few times a day, she says. “But I’m willing to do that for my health.” Her tips for making the transition: 1) Switch slowly; don’t dump all your old favorites all at once; 2) Go natural on the products you use every day, such as concealer and lipstick, which gets absorbed directly into the bloodstream when you eat or lick your lips; 3) Change your expectations, as natural makeup is not as long-lasting, inexpensive or easyto-find as the more common, but toxic, stuff. The good news is when it comes time to remove it, all you need is raw coconut or sweet almond oil and a cotton ball. “Natural makeup just slides right off,” says Blades.

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natural awakenings

Each day, the average woman uses a dozen products containing 160 chemicals, while men apply about 80 chemicals to their bodies. However, 64 percent of beauty product users say they use at least some “natural” items. ~ Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry, by Stacy Malkan

HANDS The smell at the nail salon is noxious; should I be worried about what’s going onto my fingernails?

“If your eyes are watering, your nose is twitching and your lungs are seizing up, you should listen to your body,” says Loux. It is hard to get colors—especially bright, deep, rich, shimmering ones—to stick to nails; consequently, of all cosmetics, nail polishes tend to contain the most toxins.

Getting a good night’s rest is not only healthful, it induces others who see our well-rested faces to perceive us as more healthy and attractive than those who are sleep-deprived, according to research by the Karolinska Institutet, in Sweden. The study is the first to demonstrate that the objective of getting our “beauty sleep” is the right thing to do. ~ British Medical Journal

“Nail polish is one of the tougher products to find for someone who’s looking to go natural,” says Loux. But she points out that some brands are eliminating toluene, a petroleum-based solvent that the Environmental Protection Agency has linked to mild to severe problems with respiratory and nervous systems as well as kidney and liver functions.

These less toxic polishes require more benign removers than conventional noxious-smelling acetones. Always apply them outside or near an open window.

Even better, achieve a smooth, clear shine without any polish using a nail buffer. It’s a quick, inexpensive way for men and women to sustain a natural, finished look.

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FEET What can I do to get my winter-weary feet ready for sandals?

In a word, exfoliate. Rub away calluses and thickened, cracked skin with an emery board, and then relax while soaking feet in Epsom salts to soften skin, and rub gently with a luffa or pumice stone. Foot scrubs containing salt or sugar granules invigorate and increase circulation, especially if they include peppermint, rosemary or tea tree oil within a moisturizing Shea butter or organic foot oil. Exfoliating creams, similar to facial exfoliates, but stronger, also help peel away withered winter skin. Always be sure to apply a moisturizer to protect the newly exposed skin. Remember to soften elbows and knees, too.

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natural awakenings

by Renée Loux

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any authorities have good reason to champion the fact that food nutrients such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and omega oils are now showing up in personal care products.

According to studies published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Food and Chemical Toxicology and Environmental Health Perspectives, skin can absorb up to 60 percent of what we apply to it.

So, feeding skin high-quality ingredients may be as critical as the food we eat.

It’s common knowledge that drinking a sufficient amount of pure water is essential for overall health and radiant skin. Here is a look at how other recommended foods contribute to ageless beauty.

Avocados Avocados are abundant in skin-beautifying goodies: omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed; antioxidant vitamins A and E; fortifying B-complex vitamins; lecithin, to protect and strengthen cell walls; and potassium, to support new cell growth.

They also host a portfolio of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds— including phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate—that fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin and tissue on a cellular level.

Blueberries The Tufts University Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging reports that blueberries

contain some of the highest antioxidant levels of any food, especially when fully ripe, and teem with skin-healing, anti-inflammatory properties. The deep, purple-blue color of these morsels is a reflection of the pigment-rich antioxidant phytonutrients, called anthocynanins, shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit photoaging (sun damage), according to a study in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology.

Chocolate Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea), and according to the National Academy of Sciences and the European Journal of Nutrition, works to improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues, for a more youthful, glowing complexion.

Scientific American and the Journal of Investigative Dermatology report that chocolate is also a supreme source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while stimulating cellular growth and renewal. Dark chocolate offers the most beautifying benefits per bite, so look for 65 percent or higher cocoa content, and keep the portions small to mindfully manage calorie and fat intake.

Cruciferous VegetableS The crucifer family— including cabbage, broccoli, kale and radishes— is loaded with skin-beautifying compounds. According to studies by the National Academy of Sciences, its sulfur-containing phytonutrients boost the body’s natural detoxification enzymes to combat and repair damage to skin. Low in calories, these mineraldense and antioxidant-rich veggies are packed with carotenoid antioxidants, which help neutralize carcinogens and

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Honey Avocado Masque (for normal to dry skin)

Honey and avocado are a luscious blend to nourish skin.

As an emollient, avocado is rich in oils, vitamins and minerals, and the honey supplies antioxidants and enzymes. Lemon juice is a natural source of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) for skin renewal. Together, they yield velvety skin.

1 avocado 1½ Tbsp raw honey 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1. Mash avocado and blend with honey and lemon juice in a small food processor or blender until smooth.

2. Cleanse the face.

3. Steam face to open pores over a hot pot of water; or drench a washcloth with steaming hot water, wring out, let cool to a comfortable touch and cover cleaned face with it for two minutes.

4. Apply avocado honey mixture evenly over all parts of the face, avoiding the eyes. Let stand for 15 minutes.

5. Wash off with warm water, followed by a cool water rinse. Apply natural toner or face spray and moisturizer.

Variations on the theme Exfoliation for dry skin: Mix 2 Tbsp rice flour thoroughly with the avocado and honey. Apply as directed.

Exfoliation for oily skin: Mix 2 Tbsp ground oatmeal thoroughly with the avocado and honey. Apply as directed.

For both, wash off gently with warm water and a cloth, being mindful not to rub too hard, followed by a cool water rinse.

Recipe courtesy of Renée Loux. For more recipes, visit ReneeLoux.com.

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oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation and bolster immune response.

They also contain isothiacyanates, which research published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows, specifically guard against breast cancer.

Dark Leafy Greens Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, offer more nutrients with fewer calories than any other food. Like cruciferous veggies, they’re packed with carotenoid antioxidants.

Green veggies are also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum in our skin and hair follicles for healthy, well-conditioned skin and a supple complexion.

Green Tea Green tea is infused with a potent portfolio of age-defying antioxidants.

Because green tea is minimally processed, of all the teas, it offers the most antioxidant polyphenols, including a specific catechin believed to inhibit cancer and also beautify the skin.

Micro- and Macro-algae Micro-algae, including blue-green algae, chlorella and spirulina, are among the most concentrated sources of a full spectrum of beautifying vitamins and minerals for skin and hair and are easy for the body to absorb.

These single-celled plants contain one of the highest sources by weight of protein, beta-carotene, nucleic acids (RNA/DNA) and chlorophyll of any food on the planet, according to studies published by the American Society for Microbiolo-

natural awakenings

gy. Micro-algae are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form for powerhouse smoothies.

Ocean-growing seaweed (macro-algae) contains more minerals and trace minerals than any other food, according to research published by Food Chemistry—10 to 20 times more than many land vegetables. Long prized for their beautifying effects on skin and hair, sea vegetables are an abundant source of antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, as well as B-complex vitamins, including B12, for glowing skin; plus they have the unique ergosterol, which converts into vitamin D2 in the body to support healthy skin cell metabolism and growth. Look for sea veggies arame, dulse, hijiki, nori and wakame for a concentrated source of age-defying nutrition.

Omega Oils Healthy oils, including omega fatty acids, grow and nourish healthy, glowing skin, strong nails and lustrous hair.

They act as a conditioner for skin, maintaining and supporting healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed.

Uncooked oils offer many beautifying benefits; because many nutrients are damaged and destroyed by heat—the fresher and less refined the oil, the better. Foods rich in omegas include flax seed and oil; olives and olive oil; pumpkin seed and oil; walnuts; and winter squash.

Raw Honey With an ample spread of vitamins and minerals, such as antioxidant vitamins A, C and E; skinsupportive vitamins D and K; amino acids; and fortifying, reparative B-complex

vitamins, raw honey’s combined flower nectar and enzymes are laden with beautifying nutrients, antioxidants, antiinflammatory and healing compounds.

The benefits are largely determined by the honey’s source and the environmental conditions in which the bees live.

Red Wine Loaded with beneficial antioxidant and antiinflammatory flavonoids, red wine is a well-known source of cell-protecting resveratrol. Concentrated in the skin of grapes and championed for antiaging and anticancer properties in studies published by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology and Anticancer Research, resveratrol appears to protect the skin against the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, notes research in Neoplasia. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes contain some of the highest concentration of age-defying antioxidants.

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So, eat and drink up!

Renée Loux is a celebrated green expert, organic chef, restaurateur and media personality and the co-founder of Andalou Naturals. She has authored four books, including Easy Green Living and The Balanced Plate. Visit ReneeLoux.com.

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Recipes for Ageless Beauty

by Renée Loux Beautify your body and skin from the inside out with these recipes that pair agedefying nutrients and nourishing ingredients with incredible taste and texture.

Chocolate-Avocado Parfait with Blueberries & Mint Chocolate and avocado may sound like an unusual couple, but when these antioxidant- and omega-rich champions get together, the results are scrumptious.

Yields: 4-8 servings 2 cups diced avocado ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp maple syrup 2-4 Tbsp organic evaporated cane juice or sugar (optional) 2 Tbsp coconut oil (optional; look for a mild aroma) 1-2 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (aged is best) ½ tsp shoyu (organic soy sauce) 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 pint blueberries Handful of fresh mint leaves 1. In a food processor, blend avocado, maple syrup, organic sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, balsamic and shoyu until smooth and creamy.

2. Sift the cocoa powder to remove lumps, using a simple metal strainer. Add cocoa powder to the avocado mixture and blend until very smooth. If time allows, let the mixture rest, covered in the fridge for an hour, for flavors to marry and develop.

3. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature. Place a few blueberries in the bottom of a wine, parfait or martini glass. Top with a generous dollop of choc42

Fairfield County Edition

olate-avocado mixture and garnish with more blueberries and chopped mint.

Green Tea Chai Frappé Green tea and chai spices blend together for a delicious boost of antioxidants and liquid nourishment. Fresh almond milk is easy to make, calcium-rich and highly digestible; just blend soaked almonds with water and strain. In a pinch, raw almond butter may be used.

Blend with ice to make a frozen frappé or warm gently on a cool, crisp day.

Yields: 2-4 servings 2 green tea bags 2 cups hot filtered water 1 cup raw almonds, soaked eight hours in filtered water, drained and rinsed or 3 Tbsp raw almond butter 2 cups filtered water 1-1½ Tbsp chopped ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg Pinch of ground cloves Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 2 Tbsp maple syrup to taste 2 Tbsp agave nectar or raw honey to taste Beforehand: If using raw almonds, soak them for eight hours in filtered water, drain and rinse.

1. Steep green tea bags in hot water for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove and squeeze to extract as much liquid as possible. Cool tea in the fridge or freezer (or drop in an ice cube to speed the cooling process), unless served warm.

2. In a blender, add cooled tea, drained almonds or almond butter, ginger, spices, maple, and agave or honey and blend all until super-smooth. Start with less

natural awakenings

sweeteners and add more to taste.

3. Pour through a strainer or sieve to separate pulp. Press with the back of a large spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.

4. Return to blender and blend with ice for a frosty frappé, or warm over low heat to warm the spirit.

Massaged Greens Leafy greens respond well to a good rubbing with oil, with a pinch of salt and seasoning. Fresh herbs always taste great. Keep it simple or add green onion, garlic and ginger for a tasty variation.

Yields: 2-4 servings 6 cups chopped greens: any type of kale, spinach, chard or mixture 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp flax oil or additional olive oil 1 Tbsp umeboshi plum vinegar or lemon juice 2 tsp shoyu 1 tsp agave nectar or maple syrup (optional) 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional) 1-2 cloves garlic, pressed (optional) 2-3 tsp ginger, finely grated (optional) Sea salt to taste 1½ cups or more of chopped basil or parsley Pinch of fresh oregano, thyme or marjoram (optional) 1. Wash the greens and remove any tough stems.

2. Chop finely and toss with olive oil, flax oil, umeboshi plum vinegar and/ or lemon, shoyu, agave or maple, green onion, garlic and ginger.

3. Use freshly cleaned hands to massage with love, paying attention to tougher parts.

4. Allow to stand and marinate, rubbing now and again for an hour or two.

5. Toss in herbs and allow to stand 10 minutes to absorb flavors; stores well for a day or two.

Recipes are courtesy of Renée Loux.

For more recipes, visit ReneeLoux.com.

Far Infrared Heat Detox – Wavelengths From the Sun

by Gina Dennehy

A

recent study at the Clinical Pathology Department of the National Institutes of Health showed lack of a balanced spectrum of light contributes to loss of muscle tone and strength. If certain wavelengths are missing in the light we receive, our bodies cannot fully absorb certain nutrients. Even with adequate nutrition, without exposure to sufficient light the body can be malnourished. Sunlight produces a metabolic effect in the body similar to physical training and exercise. It also stimulates the thyroid gland, increasing hormone levels, which translates into increased metabolism and potential weight loss.

Infrared is light naturally produced by the sun. Far infrared light is of a longer wavelength than near- or midinfrared. As part of the sun’s invisible spectrum, far infrared light is a form of thermal energy, the warmth one feels when outside on a sunny day. Unlike ultraviolet light, which can cause skin damage, infrared is not harmful. In fact, far infrared heat therapy technologies, such as lamps, body bands, therapy garments and saunas are increasingly being utilized as treatment for relief of pain and physical ailments, as well as

enhanced well-being.

Far Infrared Heat Therapy (FIR) has shown to be beneficial in many ways, including loosening muscles and relaxing the body, thereby helping to diminish stress. It relieves pain by expanding blood vessels and increasing circulation. This allows more oxygen to reach injured areas of the body, helping reduce soreness and speed up the healing process. Many people have used FIR heat as a successful treatment for arthritis, rheumatism and muscle spasms.

Far Infrared Heat Therapy penetrates deeply into the cells offering another option for health and wellness.

FIR can help control weight. Perspiring is part of the complex thermoregulatory process of the body that increases the heart rate, cardiac output, and metabolic rate. The process requires a large amount of energy and reduces excess moisture, salt and subcutaneous fat. It quickens the body’s process for sweating out fats and toxins.

FIR helps eliminate toxins such as sodium, alcohol, nicotine, cholesterol, carcinogenic heavy metals (cadmium, lead, zinc, nickel) and mercury, which may accumulate in the body during daily life. The body eliminates most toxins naturally through sweat, but the process is sometimes too slow. This therapy stimulates the sweat glands that cleanse and detoxify the skin, simply speeding up the body’s natural process.

The far infrared therapy technique can improve circulation, expel dirt and chemicals, and remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, all of which can lead to a softer, more firm complexion. It may also enhance skin tone and elasticity; clear acne, eczema, psoriasis; and remove roughness and cellulite. FIR penetrates deeply into the cells offering another option for health and optimal wellness.

Gina Dennehy is a holistic health practitioner and owner of Body Essentials Holistic Spa & Wellness Center, located at 18 Mill Plain Road in Danbury. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 203.743.1132 or visit BodyEssentials.net. See ad pg 7, 53.

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wisewords

Birthing a New World Jean Houston Explores the Power of the Feminine

How has your work with the United Nations forwarded progress for women and the world?

by Linda Sechrist

S

cholar, author, philosopher and researcher Jean Houston is one of the principal founders of the human potential movement. Her seminar, titled Woman, an Idea Whose Time Has Come: Why Unleashing the Power of the Feminine is Key to Personal Fulfillment & Planetary Transformation, was recently offered via teleconference to thousands of women by Women on the Edge of Evolution, founded by Katherine Woodward Thomas and Claire Zammit.

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Fairfield County Edition

As pilgrims and parents in a newly emerging world, we cannot afford old stopgap solutions. We can thrive in these complex times, which require the wisest use of our capacities and a new set of holistic values, if women focus their newfound empowerment in the re-genesis of society. Women’s voices are indispensable if we seek a future that will be different from the past.

Why is building momentum in women’s empowerment so vital, and why is it essential that women speak up now?

The possible society will become a reality if we each become The Possible Human we are capable of being. To do this in our present planetary culture, where everything is in transition, we need to make the most of the full complement of human resources, wherever and in whomever they are found. We also need to bring forth and orchestrate all the rhythms of human awakening that have ever been realized, in humanity’s search for what can be.

natural awakenings

My work with the United Nations Development Programme and nongovernmental organizations has been guided by the intention of achieving measurable and sustainable change in the domains of peace and development. I’ve trained thousands of people in the Philippines, Nepal, Kenya, Albania and other countries in the new field of social artistry, the art of enhancing human capacities in the midst and light of social complexity. One initiative to strengthen leadership in women and youth, as well as their active participation in decision-making, is in the third year of a five-year program.

During behind-the-scenes work to train and empower women in Middle Eastern countries, I’ve observed that within the collapsing economies and infrastructures of the Arabic world, women are especially open to creating strategic change and social action.

How can we determine where to give our energy and attention in order to influence the future and make our greatest contribution?

I believe that the rise of women and the re-patterning of human nature in the 21st century may be one of the most important events in human history. For a new world to be born, we must bring a new mind to bear.

Women comprise half of the world’s total population and are critical to this change. Their “mother mind” weaves the linear and circular, subjective and objective, and is empathic and narrative-oriented. Solutions arise from such a mind in a form of unfolding levels of understanding, where the inner world is valued as much as the outer.

This mind sees things as systemic, rather than systematic, and in unifying constellations, rather than in disparity.

This way of perceiving one wholeness and the networks within is vital to the creation of a whole new planetary society, where women and men are in full partnership in the handling of all affairs. In emphasizing relatedness and ongoing connection, the best solution for all becomes one in which everyone benefits and is provided with a pathway to achieving his or her fullest potential.

How might we work together and support each other in this process?

Create teaching and learning communities where women can come together to discuss things that matter and develop themselves. It is critical for women to have such a place of deep meeting, deep meaning and deep becoming, where they can grow in body, mind and spirit. As a result of these rich meetings, women move forward to take on projects—whatever seems most important, whether it’s a streetlight needed at a dark corner or creating a social action group.

In your experience, what have you identified as the first action that individual women can take to catalyze progress?

Wherever you are, take action now. Start a teaching and learning community. One of my students, a SamoanAmerican woman, started several such communities in her hometown. She went on to become the mayor of Burnsville, Minnesota. She didn’t stop there; today she serves as the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

For more information, visit JeanHouston.org.

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

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Quinoa with Watercress, Pears and Pomegranates (serves 4)

This dish combines quinoa with the delicious flavor combination of sweet pears, tart pomegranate seeds and peppery watercress.

1 cup quinoa 2 cups water 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 bunch watercress, stems removed and leaves sliced (about 1 1/2 cups packed leaves) 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch chunks1/2 cup pomegranate seeds • Rinse quinoa under cold running water and drain.

Combine water and quinoa in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook until quinoa is tender and all the water is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. Place quinoa in a large bowl with watercress, pears, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, juice and vinegar.

Stir to combine, then serve. green onion.

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Take Your Soul on a Great Night Out Sacred Chanting is Right in Your Neighborhood

by Jay Hanuman

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ou may know about big events like the Ecstatic Chant weekends at the Omega Institute, or you may have attended a sold-out Krishna Das concert, but did you know that there is probably a sacred chanting session happening in your area this very week? Kirtan is a form of “bhakti” (devotional) yoga that involves the singing of the Divine Names and mantras, usually in Sanskrit. It’s a wonderful and enjoyable way to worship that’s been steadily growing in popularity—both internationally and right here in Fairfield County.

The word kirtan comes from the Sanskrit language and means devotional chanting or singing. The word Sanskrit itself means “language brought to formal perfection.” Over the millennia, Sanskrit sages who understood the power of words continued to develop and refine this language in the hope of discovering their own divine nature. “They selected only those sounds which had the greatest clarity, purity, and power of resonance,” says Vyaas Houston from the American Sanskrit Institute. “The vibrational purity and resonating power of Sanskrit is above all an opera on a grand cosmic scale that you can sing with your whole heart and being.”

During the 1980’s, kirtan became a regular practice in many yoga ashram communities throughout the West. By the end of the 20th century, the experience of kirtan had expanded beyond these traditional ashram communities and into the larger public sphere. Today, kirtan continues to grow rapidly along with increasing interest in the world’s sacred traditions and the vibrant yoga movement in the West. It extends across cultures, races and religions and offers a profound experience of an ancient sacred tradition to the greater human community. Kirtan is a means to connect to the heart and divinity that lies within, as expressed by some of the tens of thousands of people who participate in these sacred chanting events around the world.

“The first time I went to a kirtan, I felt good that night,” says Dennis Winge, a full-time musician who fell in love 46

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

‘Sita’ Miriam Zernis with this form of spiritual practice a year ago. “The next time, I felt good the whole next day. The third time, I felt good for two whole days and I thought ‘Wait, there’s something going on here!’” Believing that there should be a kirtan, “on every block in every town every night of the week,” Winge took it upon himself to learn the art of leading kirtan at a week-long Omega course last spring. In Connecticut, Winge helped organize the 2nd annual New Year’s Eve 2010 Kirtan Extravaganza at the Redding Meditation Center, along with ‘Sita’ Miriam Zernis, who was also instrumental in organizing the first event in 2009. Winge credits her as “perhaps the strongest proponent of kirtan in Fairfield County”.

Zernis offers kirtan at yoga studios and spiritual centers around the county with her ensemble, Sita’s Light, and also teaches “Art and Practice of Kirtan” workshops and harmonium. “If anyone would have ever told me a few years ago when I was an ABC News editor, that I would become a kirtan wallah, I wouldn’t have believed it! Now I can’t imagine anything else I’d rather do with my life than to facilitate a beautiful musical prayer experience for others to feel the power of the Divine at whatever level they are ready to do so.” Zernis also holds a monthly “satsang” or a gathering of good spiritual companions in her hometown of Ridgefield where she says many first timers have found the joy of kirtan in a small and intimate setting. “Our hearts and our minds just have to be open enough to access the joy kirtan brings.

Negative thoughts are actually transformed and we are changed for the better by the practice.”

Additional opportunities for kirtan in Fairfield County and the surrounding areas abound. Satya Franche Carlson, who’s been leading her ensemble, Ma Kirtan, since 2006 holds regular kirtans at Touch of Sedona in Ridgefield, Pymander in Norwalk, and Dew Yoga in Stamford. Satya, whose name means truth in Sanskrit, says she is very grateful to have a leading role in the rising popularity of kirtan throughout the region. “It has become so popular in the last few years,” says Satya. “People are really starting to feel the benefits of this heart opening meditation.”

Kirtan chants are most often sung in call and response fashion, and chant sheets that list the mantras are provided at most sessions. The Sanskrit word “mantra” can be broken etymologically into the root words “mana” (mind) and “tra” (deliver). Mantras thus have the power to deliver the mind from material consciousness or perception to spiritual consciousness or enlightenment. The mantras are generally short and easy to learn, and they may be recited a few times for practice before each chant begins. Traditionally, instruments such as a harmonium, tabla, gorong and other percussion instruments are used, although kirtan can be easily adapted to many Western instruments such as violin, guitar, bass, and keyboard.

Kirtan is opera on a grand cosmic scale that you can sing with your whole heart and being.

“The Divine Names we sing come from a place that’s deeper than our thoughts or our minds,” says Winge, “In fact, at our deepest level, they are us.” The spiritual practice of kirtan, although largely taken from the Hindu tradition, is not about belonging to a religion or having any particular set of belief systems. Winge says that’s one of the reasons he

Satya Franche Carlson loves it so much. “There’s nothing to debate or discuss,” he says. “You just sit down and sing!”

For more information about Dennis Winge visit DennisWinge.com. For more information on ‘Sita’ Miriam Zernis’ kirtan and workshops visit SitasLight.com. To join the Satya Franche and Ma Kirtan mailing list email MaKirtan10@gmail.com.

The Fairfield County ReStore accepts donations of Furniture, Appliances and Building Materials both New and Used.

Your tax-deductible donation will help Habitat for Humanity build decent affordable homes for hard working low-income families as we work towards our mission of eliminating substandard housing in Coastal Fairfield County.

Wrong Size? Wrong Color? Wrong Amount?

Or Just Tired of It? Call Our Donation Hotline 203-383-4358 Don’t Throw It Away!

WE’LL TAKE IT!! www.fairfieldcountyrestore.org Or Visit

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May 2011

47

inspiration

MOTHERING THE WORLD

by Isha Judd

F To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. ~Buddha

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

Search “Natural Awakenings magazine Fairfield County” 48

Fairfield County Edition

or most of us, our mother is the earliest and most significant influence in life. She is likely our first encounter with unconditional love. The service and selfless giving that mothering universally represents are qualities that we all must learn to emulate on our journey to self-realization.

In order to love unconditionally, I have learned that I must first learn to love and accept myself exactly as I am. How can I embrace others in their perfection if I cannot first see my own? If in judging myself, I reject certain aspects, unconditional love towards others can never be anything more than a hollow façade.

Similarly, in order to mother the world, I must first learn to mother myself—to find the beauty and perfection of my own individuality and rejoice in my own unique way of being. Then naturally, acceptance and love of others will overflow to my friends and family and ultimately, to my community and the world.

When we cultivate true love of self, the love that is present within radiates out to all beings, all peoples, and to Mother Earth herself. Many talk about what we should do—respect basic human rights, care for the environment and so on. Yet, if we must remind ourselves to do these things and so impose them upon ourselves, then the desire to care and serve is not arising naturally and spontaneously; then we are not dwelling in a healthy place where our innate capacity to give and support all life grows and thrives naturally. Ultimately, our own inner healing will cause these qualities to flourish; not because

natural awakenings

we are trying to behave responsibly, but because out of an open heart, we are joyfully taking responsibility for nurturing and protecting life.

Unconditional mothering is motherhood without fear or fear-based control. It is neither lax nor careless, nor based on pleasing or fear of losing the favor of a child. Real mother love knows how to set limits, establish boundaries, confront unsatisfactory situations and guide a child’s development with a steady, firm hand. Inwardly, such a large love is surrendered, trusting that things will unfold as they should and free of the ego-based fear of making a mistake, and so it is neither overprotective nor overbearing.

An individual focused on unconditional love is giving the greatest contribution of all to the evolution of our planet. Our gift to humanity comes through our own inner growth and advancement, a mothering of our self that births our own greatness, even as it brings out the greatness in others.

As you cultivate an unconditional relationship with yourself, you will find the unconditional love you seek to express for your children, parents, friends and colleagues. You will become a universal mother: a mother of the world.

Isha Judd is an internationally renowned spiritual teacher. Her book and movie, Why Walk When You Can Fly? (WhyWalkWhen YouCanFly.com) explains her system for self-love and the expansion of consciousness.

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COMING IN JUNE

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

SUNDAY, MAY 1 Wilton Go Green’s Second Annual Festival 11am-4pm. Food sampling of organic beef, exhibits showcasing the latest electric cars, eco-friendly building solutions. Enjoy family fun activities, including nature hikes and a bike race. Wilton Town Center. 203.762.3950.

Karuna Reiki® Workshop: Introduction to Karuna Reiki® 1-4pm. Pre-requisite: Must be a practicing Reiki Master for a minimum of 6 months. Includes exercises to increase perception and awareness, meditation etc. $25. Bridgeport/ Fairfield. Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

Integrative Health & MEN’S WELLNESS Our doctors’ advice?

Eat, drink, be merry, and get moving.

Free Lotus Gardens Yoga School Teacher Training Information Hour 5:30-6:30pm. Come meet, see the studio and discuss the 200 hour certification course. Graceful Planet. 7 Berkshire Rd. Sandy Hook. Call: 860.354.6241.

TUESDAY, MAY 3 Find Your Right Work 7-9:30pm. Also held 5/10, 5/17, 5/24. A holistic workshop focused on achieving self-actualization and empowerment for those who are unemployed, dissatisfied with current jobs, or simply seeking new opportunities.

The Graduate Institute. 203.874.4252.

60th Anniversary of Wainwright House

Saturday, May 14, 7-9 PM Special Guest Barbara Marx Hubbard Register Now ACelebrationOfSpirit.org 914.967.6080 THURSDAY, MAY 5 Raw Food Fun & Prep 6:30pm. Glen Colello talks, preps and shares tasty easy to create healthy vegan raw foods! Geared to beginners. $15. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. 39 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield.

203.292.8190.

SATURDAY, MAY 7

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 Community Drum Circle 7pm. Share the passion of drumming and rhythm with facilitator Randy Brody. Drum, dance and create joyful noise! Drums provided. $15. TESS Suzuki School. 3 Quincy St. Norwalk. RSVP / info: 203.544.7085.

Empowerment and the Art of Creating a Fertile Life 9am-1:30pm. Recognize and honor the connection between one’s fertility and all areas of one’s life. Prepare one’s mind/body/spirit and open to new possibilities. TLC Center. Norwalk. 914.393.9221.

Reiki Healing Circle for Practitioners 7:309pm. Tracy Mignone and June Fagan facilitate this event. Practitioners are able to share experiences and practice the healing modality. $10 donation.

Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding.

203.938.3690.

Muttville Comix 1 & 4pm. The dogs outsmart master, Johnny Peers and perform clever stunts and tricks. Special quest is 2 and 1 champs of the 2010 Ridgefield BandJam. Tickets: $15. The Ridgefield Playhouse. 203.438.5795.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Empowerment and the Art of Creating a Fertile Life Saturday, May 7 • 9 am – 1:30 pm

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

Recognize and honor the connection between one’s fertility and all areas of one’s life.

Prepare one’s mind/body/spirit and open to new possibilities. $75.

203.885.4674

TLC Center. Norwalk.

914.393.9221.

Fairfield County Edition

A Celebration of Spirit

Free Yoga Classes with Lotus Gardens 8:30am5pm. Yoga School Graduates. Graceful Planet. 7 Berkshire Rd. Sandy Hook. Call: 860.354.6241.

Learn why.

50

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

natural awakenings

Dharma Yoga Maha Sadhana 4:30-7pm. Spiritual purification and in-depth Shiva Namaskara posture practice, including pranayama, call and response chanting, deep relaxation and a guided meditation. $35 pp by 4/30 or $45. Yoga for Everybody.

Fairfield. 203.254.YOGA.

MONDAY, MAY 9 Play & Tea 1-2pm. Sip tea & learn about the Waldorf Mixed-Age Kindergarten 3-6 year olds; Growing Together program for moms, dads & children 2 months - 3 years. The Clover Hill School.

Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. 203.661.6484.

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

WEDNESDAY, May 18 • 6 - 8 p.m.

at Stamford Museum & Nature Center 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford • StamfordMuseum.org This month join us for a Vegetable Gardening workshop at Heckscher Farm, where over 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables are planted in their organic garden!

All gardener levels welcome. Learn from the experts and experience the beautiful working grounds of Heckscher Farm.

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

Next Month: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22 Back by popular demand!

Join us for a moonlit Labyrinth Walk in a beautiful outdoor setting on Sticks and Stones 60-acre farm.

201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.

SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

To RSVP or for more info call 203.885.4674

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May 2011

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR Tree Whispering®: Holistic Partnership June 3 – 5 Omega Institute • Rhinebeck, NY Tune up abilities to sense, feel, ask, listen, love.

Journey into tree/plant’s world. Intuitively receive their messages. Sacred & practical: learn chores in cooperative partnership. Use touch & permission-based, holistic energy-healing methods. $300 plus room & meals.

Register & Directions: www.Eomega.org www.TreeWhispering.com

S.U.N.Y. Purchase, Phys Ed building Sunday, June 5, noon to 5 PM

The area’s best body-mind-spirit wellness fair Our 10th fabulous year!

Exhibitors Practitioners • Readers Part Of

June 2 Pre-Conference June 3, 4 and 5, 2011 Main Conference for Pilates teachers, students, and friends open to all levels of ability and interest

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11 Conflict Transformation: Addressing the Concerns of our Schools, Families, and Communities 6pm. Learn to manage that conflict effectively and understand its roots, causes, and opportunities for transformation. Free event. The Graduate Institute. RSVP: 203.874.4252.

YOU Can be HOT this Summer 7– 8pm. Best foods, movements, and de-stress techniques to lose weight, get fit, and enjoy relaxation. Janet Luongo, certified health coach, lifestyle educator, yoga instructor. Norwalk Nourish & Flourish Center.

Free. Register: 203.846.2642.

THURSDAY, MAY 12 Take-A-Break Lisa Kogan of O, the Oprah Magazine Tells All Coffee 9:30am. Talk 10am.

Life as a single, working mother in NYC and the book: Someone Will Be with You Shortly. Westport Library. Free. 203.291.4800.

Tim Van Orden Turbo Charge Your Life 6:30 pm. How does one achieve great health? What role does diet play? Learn strategies to increase energy, improve health and eliminate illness. $15. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. Fairfield. 203.292.8190.

Intuitive/Psychic Development 7:30pm. Experience ways to connect with and open one’s Intuition. Learn to develop one’s psychic ability with a friendly casual group of beginners. $10. Jane Russo’s Wellness Room. 65 Clinton Ave. Stratford.

203.377.7984.

Go to

www.artofcontrol.com

WOMEN’S WISDOM RETREAT Saturday/Sunday June 11-12

Media Partner

Recharge & Connect w/ Your Inner Wisdom!

www.AwakenFair.com 52

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

for the full schedule of offerings

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Includes 2 empowering workshops, crystal bowl healing concert, yoga, meditation & lots of inspiration and connection.

Overnight retreat in the beautiful, relaxed setting at the Guest House in Chester, CT (less than an hour away). $249.

Register/Info: 203.885.4674

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Health & Wellness Expo Spring 2011 Wednesday, May 25 • 5:30 to 9 pm 100+ health & wellness exhibitors, fitness, dance & yoga demonstrations, complimentary refreshments & parking.

Miss CT 2010 Brittany Decker, health & fitness advocate, special “Dancing with the Stars” performance. Stamford Plaza Hotel. $20/$25 Tickets: GreenwichYPG.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 14 Annual May Fair 11am-4 pm. Fun for the whole family. Food, music, crafts, hayrides, sheep shearing, live birds of prey. $5/person, 3 and under free. No dogs allowed. New Pond Farm. 101 Marchant Rd. Redding. 203.938.2117.

Laughing Yoga 1-3pm. De-stress; relax; boost ones immunity and look younger. Laughter can be self-produced and is a natural pick-me-up. Learn how with Laughter Yoga. $25 pre-registration.

YogaSpace. 777 Federal Rd. Brookfield.

203.775.6220.

Osho Dynamic Meditation w/ Live Drums 4-5:30pm. Active meditation with movement and vocalization. $20. Yoga for Everybody. 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield. 203.254.YOGA Healing Circle 6-7pm. Chanting a Healing Mantra and listening to a live Gong play, the healing circle

is a beautiful and nurturing experience. Free. Yoga for Everybody. 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield. 203.254.

YOGA.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Natural Awakenings NATURAL CONNECTIONS Night Wednesday, May 18 • 6 – 8 pm Vegetable Gardening Workshop

MONDAY, MAY 16 Community Drum Circle 7:30pm. Share the passion of drumming and rhythm with Randy Brody. Drum, dance and create joyful noise!

Drums provided. $15/$5 seniors, kids under 12.

Norfield Grange. 12 Good Hill Rd. Weston. RSVP: 203.544.7085.

Hosted by Stamford Museum & Nature Center, at Heckscher Farm. Come see Heckscher Farm’s organic garden where 50 varieties of fruits & vegetables are grown!

All levels welcome. Free. 39 Scofieldtown Rd.

TUESDAY, MAY 17 Master of Arts in Experiential Health and Healing: Free Information Session 4 pm.

Discover an innovative graduate program in the field of Integrative Medicine. Offered by The Graduate Institute. Hartford Hospital. Special Dining Room. Call: 203.874.4252.

Signs From Our Angels 7:30-9pm. Gathering to call in one’s Angels. Receive an Angelic message.

Guided meditation included. $10. Jane Russo’s Wellness Room. 65 Clinton Ave. Stratford.

203.377.7984.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 Natural Awakenings Natural Connections Night 6-8pm. Vegetable Gardening Workshop led by Will Kies of Heckscher Farm. Beautiful setting. The farm’s organic garden grows 50 varieties of fruit & vegetables! All levels welcome. 39 Scofieldtown Rd. Stamford. RSVP: 203.885.4674.

RSVP: 203.885.4674.

Mixing Minds: The Power of Relationship in Psychoanalysis & Buddhism 7:30pm. Dr. Pilar Jennings talks about melding psychoanalytically oriented therapy & Buddhist meditation for healing. Westport Library. McManus Room. Free.

203.291.4800.

THURSDAY, MAY 19 Phenomenal Physics 10am & 1pm. Flying boomerangs, floating bubbles, cracking whips and swishing tablecloths demonstrate principles of physics with renowned circus pro Mr. Fish. Grades 2-8. $10. The Ridgefield Playhouse. 80 East Ridge.

203.438.5795.

Balancing Hormones: A Healthy Approach to PMS, Peri-Menopause, Menopause & Thyroid Dysfunction 6:30pm w/ Dr. Zembroski of

H OH LOI LS I TS ITCITCI SCSP PAS N EE S C C E N A && W W E LL LL N EN T ET RE R L SLSESN H O L I S T I HC O SL PI S A & W EP LAL N& E SWS E C NET SE SR C E N T E R

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2011

53

Nickel Place. Monroe. 203.259.1561.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR 700 VOICES SACRED MUSIC FESTIVAL Snatam Kaur, David Newman & Eddy Nataraj May 29, doors open 11am Advance tickets $75 & $85 Thomaston Opera House, Thomaston, CT Info/register: 700voices.com or 860.482.9076 We are recording a CD. Come sing & meditate. Become whole again! Pack a cooler for meals in between and keep in car or eat out. No food in Opera House.

the Darien Center for Integrative Medicine, is passionate about health education. Free. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. Fairfield. 203.292.8190.

Family Yoga 2:30-3:30pm. Yoga really is for all ages, and this special class is designed for children (ages 5-12 years) and adults. $15/pp in advance. $20 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody. 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield. 203.254.YOGA. Potluck Supper and Square Dance 5-8pm.

Potluck supper followed by a lively square dance. Great for all ages. $8/person, under 3 free.

New Pond Farm. 101 Marchant Rd. Redding.

Reservations required: 203.938.2117.

SUNDAY, MAY 22 Reiki Workshop: Introduction to Reiki All Levels 1-4pm. Brief explanation of Reiki and what to expect in class. Includes exercises to increase perception and awareness, meditation, hands-on sampling etc. Bridgeport/Fairfield. $25. Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

MONDAY, MAY 23

SATURDAY, MAY 21 Post Treatment Breast Cancer Survivors Retreat 9am-3pm. Share experiences and explore healthful practices that promote healing and wellness with women who have completed Breast Cancer treatment. $40.Vikingsborg Guest House.

St. Birgitta’s. Darien. 203.857.7304.

Withinsight’s Spirit of Creation 2-5pm. Explore Sovereign energy to tap creativity and achieve dreams. Source regal power to clarify vision, strengthen choices and find fulfillment. $50.

Discount available. Withinsight Temple Home. 43

Play & Tea 1-2pm. Sip tea & learn about the Waldorf Mixed-Age Kindergarten 3-6 year olds; Growing Together program for moms, dads & children 2 months - 3 years. The Clover Hill School.

Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. 203.661.6484.

Film: Whale Rider 7pm. A contemporary fairytale of courage, determination, hope & healing in the face of challenges that celebrates one’s spiritual bond with the natural environment & the whales.

Free. Tully Health Center. Stamford. RSVP: 877.233.WELL.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Empowerment and the Art of Creating a Fertile Life Saturday, June 4 - Greenwich Saturday, June 5 - Westport 1 – 5:30 pm

Recognize and honor the connection between one’s fertility & all areas of one’s life.

Prepare one’s mind/body/spirit & open to new possibilities. $75.

Kaia Yoga. 328 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich and 1200 Post Rd. East, Westport.

914.393.9221.

TUESDAY, MAY 24 Open House at The Graduate Institute 5 pm. Discover a unique learning community offering accredited Masters degrees in creativity, metaphysics, and the healing arts. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. RSVP: 203.874.4252.

Angel Card Reading for your self 7-9:30pm w/ Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. Introduction: Learn techniques to help one to connect with one’s angels. $28. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. Must pre-register: 203.852.1150.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 Health & Wellness Expo 5:30 to 9pm. Over 100 health and wellness exhibitors, fitness, dance & yoga demonstrations, complimentary refreshments and parking. Miss CT 2010 Brittany Decker, health & fitness advocate, special “Dancing with the Stars” performance. Stamford Plaza Hotel. $20/$25. Tickets: GreenwichYPG.com.

Allergies: There’s More Than Meets The Itchy Eye 6:30pm. Henry C. Sobo, MD. Learn how allergies affect one’s health. Rid oneself of symptoms like fatigue, bloating and headaches. 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. RSVP: 203.348.8805.

Find Your Direction in the Wellness Field 7–8pm. Want a career that’s rewarding, in demand, and flexible? Health coaching - a career “ahead of the curve”: US News & World Report. Certification in 10 months, distance learning. Norwalk. Free.

Register: 203.846.2642.

Friday, May 27

Hope Grows . . . With Every Step 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.

54

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

FILM: Play Again: Nature Deficit Disorder 6-9pm. Reception: 6-7 pm. With computers, phones & TV, kids look at screens an average of 7 hours/ day. $12/adult in advance. Youth: free. Greenwich Audubon. Must RSVP: 203.869.5272 x239.

Questions & Answers about Reiki 7-9:30pm. w/ Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. Dr. Oz loves Reiki. Talk about Reiki w/ Q & A’s. Non-Reiki: 7-8:15pm $5 and for Reiki practitioners: 8:159:30pm $10. Angelic Healing Center. Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203.852.1150.

Dedicated to Men, Women and Children Touched by Cancer

MARK YOUR CALENDAR TIMELY TOPICS IN NATURAL MEDICINE with Henry C. Sobo, M.D. May 25 • 7 pm Free lecture series. This month: “Allergies: There’s More Than Meets The Itchy Eye”.

Learn how allergies affect your health in many ways, and how to rid yourself of symptoms.

Q&A following - an opportunity to get to know you & answer your questions.

RSVP: 203.348.8805. DrSobo.com

Saturday, May 28 Workshop: Birds in their Habitats 9:30am12pm. Learn how particular bird species depend on specific habitats and how this relates to the Audubon at Home and Important Bird Area programs. $12/ adult. Free: Youth. Greenwich Audubon. RSVP: 203.869.5272 x230.

Yoga for Men 10:30-11:45am. Real men do yoga to improve one’s game; strengthen one’s core; and reduce stress. All levels welcome. $19 drop in or use a class pass; YogaSpace. 777 Federal Rd. Brookfield. 203.775.6220.

SUNDAY, MAY 29 Withinsight’s Animal Medicine Journey 1-4pm.

Through a meditative journey, women discover a power animal and learn how its messages and attributes can support life’s journey. $35.

Withinsight Temple Home. 43 Nickel Place.

Monroe. 203.445.0117.

Women are like teabags.

We don’t know our true strength until we are in hot water! ~Eleanor Roosevelt

ongoingevents

sunday Gentle Yoga 8:30am. Beginners welcome. 8 classes for $80 or $12 per class. Jazzercise Fitness Center, 633 Hope St. Stamford. 203.845.8856.

Pass also good for Monday 7:30pm class.

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.

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.

Meditation 7pm. Led by rotating practitioners.

Free. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield.

203.403.2522.

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. Class brings health and tones the body while finding the calm within. Jewish Community Center. 9 Rte 39 So. 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 4:15-5:15 p.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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Art of Creating a Fertile Life Empowerment Circles 7-9pm. 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. $30.

Norwalk. 914.393.9221 Gentle/Intermediate Yoga 7:30pm. Kripalu/ Vinyasa Style. $12/class or 8 classes/$80.

Jazzercise Fitness Studio. 633 Hope St. 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.

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.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Natural Awakenings NATURAL CONNECTIONS Night Wednesday, June 22 Moonlit outdoor labyrinth walk in a beautiful setting, hosted by Sticks & Stones Farm. Free.

201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.

Wear walking shoes, bring flashlight.

RSVP: 203.885.4674.

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May 2011

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tuesday Intro to Feldenkrais® classes 7 & 8:15am.

1 hour. Through 1/18. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yoga at First Presbyterian Church 6-7pm. All levels & drop-ins welcome. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga.

Wear exercise clothes. $10. Fish Church Lounge.

1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Info: 203.550.8811.

Green Drinks Bridgeport 6-8pm. 4th Tuesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Bridgeport. Call for Location: 203.536.4695.

A Course in Miracles 7pm. Also Wednesday at 10am. Facilitated by Joan Goss. Cost: Love Offering. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality. 3 Main St. (above Ford dealership). Norwalk. Info: 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.

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.

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. The Shack. 2070 Post Rd. Fairfield. 203.536.4695.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Exchange Reiki/Healing Circle 7:30pm. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays w/Gigi Benanti, Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher. Reiki circle for all levels of Reiki Practitioners only. Percentage is given to Charity.

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natural awakenings

A green way to read.

$10. Angelic Healing Center. Norwalk. Please preregister: 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 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.

Creative Kvetching: Expressive Arts Therapy 9 and 11 a.m. Let it out, get it out! Somatic tools for healing, growth, change. Small group sessions, women only. $25. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615.

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.

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.

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.

Meditation, Yoga & Shivasana 5:30-6:45pm.

A class devoted to opening the mind as well as the body. Explore movement, energy, focus and relaxation. $21.50/class. The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.274.5085.

Mindfulness Meditation and Stress Reduction 5:30-7pm w/ Paul Epstein, ND. Practice, teachings, integration with life. 4/sessions $95. Drop in $25.

Shamatha Yoga Studio. Stamford. 203.722.2358.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Buddhist Chanting 7-8pm. Hosted by June Fagan.

All welcome. Free. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. Please call: 203-938-3690.

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.

Awakening Joy... Happiness through Meditation 7:15-8:45pm w/ Paul Epstein, ND. Practice, teachings, integration with life. $25 drop-in.

Pymander Books. Main St. Norwalk. 203.

722.2358.

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 relationship. Engaging, creative activities and dialogue. $40/couple. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615.

friday

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.

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

Yoga at First Presbyterian Church 6:157:15pm. Meditation, stretching, twists, inversions to gentle music in candlelight. Great for the stressed professional or mom. First Presbyterian Church, Lounge. 1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Questions: 203.550.8811.

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.

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.

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.

Reiki 7pm. 1st Thursday monthly. Unity Center.

3 Main St. Norwalk. For more information: 203.855.7922.

Drumming Circle 7-8:30pm. 1st Fridays. Drums available or bring one. Suggested Donation $10. Touch of Sedona. 452 Main St. Ridgefield.

203.438.7146.

Since love grows within you, so beauty grows.

For love is the beauty of the soul.

~Saint Augustine

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

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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.

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.

Healing and Meditation Circle 7:30pm w/ Raffaello MiDeglio, karmic healer. 2nd Friday monthly. Come for a wonderful evening of meditation, prayer, healing and receive a message. $15. Newtown Congregational Church. 14 West St. Newtown. 203.426.9448.

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.

Dharma Yoga w/ Yogi Brian 8:30-10:30am.

The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan.

203.273.8364.

Reiki Classes all levels 9am-6pm. Also Sundays.

Winter Classes: RI/II, ART/Master. Info: ReikiOvertones students review free. ReikiOvertones call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

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. 3rd Sat/ monthly.. Experience Karuna Reiki® this spring.

Tap into unlimited healing energy. $10. Private appointments. ReikiOvertones. At Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant. 85 Ferris St. Bridgeport.

Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

Reiki Workshop-Intro to Reiki All Levels 1-4pm. A workshop for the general public. A brief description and what to expect in class. $25 (applied towards future class). ReikiOvertones. Bridgeport/ Fairfield. 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.

Recovery is for Everyone 2-3pm w/ Paul Bender & Dwight Tate. A consumer led recovery from mental illness support group. Share the recovery experience. Fairfield Library. Conference room D. Call Dwight or Paul: 203.218.7233.

classifieds 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; Lexington, KY; Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Southwest VA and Volusia/Flagler, FL. Call for details 239.530.1377.

Jazzercise offers you the opportunity to own your own business while staying fit and enhancing the lives of others through exercise and dance. Training provided. Call 203.845.8856, info@interplayhealth.com.

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

FOR RENT Professional office / treatment room in Stamford wellness center. Beautiful space for consultation/therapy/bodywork. Flexible terms call Eileen 203.3538811.

Space available in Westport in great holistic/medical center. Ideal for LAc, LMT, or Physiatrist. Join a great group including PT, ND, DC, LMT’s, Yoga, Nutrition, Psychotherapist, Skin Care.

Ideal location, near train, up and coming area, new restaurants, etc. Bring and increase your practice in established, respected, lovely healing energy center. $800./mo includes all utilities. Contact Ro@WestportTherapeutic.com or 203. 526.2942.

HELP WANTED CT / NY Licensed Aestheticians needed to demonstrate Eco Certified Face Care products and assist with Promotions. Call 203.746.1663 Art & Music teachers wanted at The Little Red School of Art & Music.

2979 Main Street, Stratford. Piano and vocal instructors. 203.375.0692. Carolyn West, Owner.

OPPORTUNITIES WOMEN’S WISDOM RETREAT, JUNE 11-12.

Includes Life Coaching and Inner Wisdom workshops, crystal bowl healing concert, yoga, meditation & lots of inspiration. Beautiful, relaxed setting at the Guest House in Chester, CT (less than an hour away). $249/$299. Register and info: see ad pg 2.

SERVICES PrisCo Consulting specializes in public relations and marketing services for those in the health and wellness industry. Founder, past-Chairperson, and Executive Board Member of the Milford Chamber’s Health and Wellness Council. 407.340.9496.

Linkedin.com/In/PriscillaLynnPriscoConsulting.

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Fairfield County Edition

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Personal/Executive Assistant-p/t Start-up Coach/Training business in lower Easton.

Assist with filing, organizing, research, projects and keeping entrepreneur on track. Organized, flexible self-starter who is detail-oriented with ability to think ahead. Technologically savvy, articulate, energetic and compassionate. Email resume to LightLoveJoy@yahoo.com.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community.

To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request our advertising rates.

ACUPUNCTURE Ingri Boe-Wiegaard, LAc Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203.259.1660 CTacupuncture.com 25 year full time practice

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility, and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad pg 27.

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

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 BioSET Allergy Elimination Program

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 28.

AROMATHERAPY YOUNG LIVING ESSENTAIL OILS

Cris Ann Mulreed 203.216.8413 pathfollowers@gmail.com 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.

BIO-FEEDBACK TECHNOLOGY JH Wellness, LLC

CHIROPRACTIC Brian K. Nathanson, DC

Bio-Feedback Technology Nutritional & Weight Loss Counseling JHWellness.com 203.716.1727

161 East Ave., Suite 102 Norwalk also Newtown location 203.313.3844 NEphysical.com

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 35.

Specializing in the repair and rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries and post masectomy rehabilitation, utilizing acupuncture and the “non-thrust” Graston® techniques.

Newtown appointments available as well.

COLONICS

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

COLONICS AT LIFELINE HYGIENICS

Breastimage.net

Rejuvenation Center Since 1993, Rye, NY 914.921.LIFE (5433)

John M. Popowich, DC Board Certified in Infrared Imaging 87 South Main St., #3, Newtown 203.300.4922 Celebrating 11 years in service, we offer High Resolution Computerized Digital Infrared Imaging for Breast Health. Scans start at $125.

Now offering personalized cleanse programs, lymphatic drainage massage, as well as our personalized colonics, since 1993. Rejuvenation at its best! See ad pg 44.

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

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.

X TO RAYS.COM

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

Certified DITI thermographer.

Conveniently located throughout Fairfield. See ad pg 10.

Experience relief

Greenwich Colon from congestion and Hydrotherapy discover a greater sense

est. 1996 of well being. Colon Hydrotherapy helps to 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 53.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Ready to star t 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 39.

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EDUCATION

GREEN LIVING

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY

Housatonic Valley Waldorf School

GET GREEN CLEAN

DR. RANDY SCHULMAN, MS, OD, FCOVD

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

Behavioral Optometrist Norwalk, CT 203.840.1991 vtotworks.com Visionworksvt@aol.com

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 9.

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. See ad pg 3.

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.

40 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown 203.364.1113 WaldorfCT.org

eeg neurofeedback

Green Maid, Inc.

All Natural & Organic Products Buy online at GreenMaidOrganics.com 203.558.2662

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 39.

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

FAMILY SERVICES 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 11.

Healing Steps

Tracy King LCSW-R Early childhood thru adolescent counseling 914.589.6755 TracyAKing14@msn.com 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 48.

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Fairfield County Edition

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 in your life.

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 10.

natural awakenings

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.

Life Coach Lisa Meade, PhD

WomenWithinsight.com 203.445.0117 Lisa@WomenWithinsight.com 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 37.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK 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 8.

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 15.

Michael E. Doyle, MD

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

203.324.4747 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 11.

RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD Karen Zino, MD 1200 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.637.3337 Riverside Obstetrics & G y n e c o l og y i s a f u l l service 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 19.

Natural Healthcare 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 15.

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 44.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

Gary S. Gruber, ND

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

“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.

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 D e t ox i f i c a t i o n P r o t o c o l s , Electro-Der mal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared P h o t o t h e r a py, F u n c t i o n a l Medicine, Herbal Medicine, H o m e o p a t h y, H o r m o n a l Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback, and other therapies.

See ad pg 39.

Family and Environmental Medicine 68 Old Stamford Road New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.6360 ScienceMeetsNature.com

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com

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 i n c l u d e Fa m i ly M e d i c i n e , Women’s Health, Endocrinology, G a s t r o e n t e r o l o g y, P a i n Management, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

Naturopathic Health Center, LLC

Nutrition

2 locations: Shelton and Sandy Hook/Newtown 203.922.0029 NaturoHealthCenter.com Dr. Carolyn Graham, RN, ND Dr. Alice Bell, MS, ND

FixEat Nutrition and Health Services LLC

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 41.

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.

Riverside 203.940.1948 Info@FixEat.com FixEat.com

Mindy Kannon, CHHC

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

Wilton, CT 203.210.7462 ChewYourRope.com

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 Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/ Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/ Enzyme Therapies. See ad pg 31.

Achieve digestive health and your ideal weight with nutritional coaching. Offering cooking classes, personal chef services and health seminars for businesses. See ad pg 30.

Personal Chef Service Eliana Grubel, CHC 203.559.8946 ElyGrubel@gmail.com

P r ov i d e s n u t r i t i o u s m e a l s customized to fit your dietary needs and prepared by a trained professional. Includes menu planning, shopping, prep, packing and cleanning. Free consultation.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

Maria C. Castillo, MSW, LCSW

Gentle, Natural, Handson Osteopathic Medical Care for Infants, Children & Adults. Children’s Health and Development, Birth Trauma, M u s c u l o s ke l e t a l Pa i n a n d Injuries, Nutrition and Wellness Counseling, Stress Reduction, Immune Support, Allergies. Most Major Insurances Accepted.

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.

David L Johnston, DO Lisa Preston, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 203.438.9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

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

Robin Ordan, LCSW

PSYCHOTHERAPY CAROLINE J. TEMPLE, MSW, LCSW Offices in Fairfield and Norwalk 203.866.9333; CTemple38@Yahoo.com MyWiseWoman.com

A Holistic Psychotherapist, Caroline offers a safe, supportive partnership for inner healing and change, tending to the emotional, spiritual and psychological needs of women through therapy, coaching, Reiki, and energy psychology.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County DeniWeber.com 203.544.6094

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

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford, CT 203.561.8535; RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has over 18 years o f e x p e r i e n c e wo r k i n g with families and children.

Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment /Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad pg 14.

STACY RAYMOND, Psy.D

Clinical Psychologist for men and women Ridgefield, CT 203.438.4080 DrStacyRaymond.com 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 GIGI BENANTI USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk, CT 203.852.1150 AngelHealReiki.com

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

All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques.

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.

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

ProMindful is a non-prof it organization offering integrative 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.

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“We are here to love, to learn, and be happy...

Women's Wisdom Retreat

June 11 & 12

let your inner wisdom guide you.”

Deepen your inner wisdom, and get empowered, balanced & inspired to create more of the life you want based on your intuition & desires. This transformational retreat is designed to include two empowerment workshops, yoga, a crystal bowl healing Held in a beautiful, relaxed country setting at the Guest House Retreat and Conference Center in Chester, CT (less than an hour away).

concert, hiking (optional), plus time for reflection, relaxation, and connection in

GuestHouseCenter.org

Creating A Life You Love Carol Shear, BNRN Holistic Life Coach, Rise Up Coaching, LLC

a serene setting, and more...

Listening to Your Inner Wisdom Maria Castillo, MSW, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist

For more than 25 years Carol has been dedicated to inspiring, encouraging and empowering women to “Rise Up” and explore the

possibilities of taking charge of their life and career in order to live a life they love, that authentically expresses who they are and meets their needs.

Carol draws from a wealth of experience in healthcare, business and the non-profit fields to focus on uncovering the power within to transform not only ourselves but our communities and our world. RiseUpCoaching.com.

Maria Castillo is recognized as a leading authority in the fields of spiritual psychotherapy, hypnosis and past life

regression. Drawing on the wisdom of many spiritual teachers and techniques for more than 25 years, Maria will help you connect with your Higher Self — your eternal Soul. Explore mindfulness, meditation, positive thinking, self hypnosis, past lives & more! LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com.

$249 per person shared room or $299 private room. includes: • All program fees • Overnight accommodations with private bath • Roommate pairing available upon request • Three healthy meals. (Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice) • Amenities include: Sauna, Fitness Room, Tennis, Cockaponset State Forest hiking and lake access, and more!

• Wireless internet access (if you must!)

To register, call 203.885.4674 • Space is limited For more info: eNaturalAwakenings.com/FAIR/Womens-Wisdom-Retreat

SPONSORED BY

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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›› Want to protect your family & pets from harsh chemicals? ›› Concerned about the overuse of synthetic fertilizers & pesticides? ›› Interested in a safer, sustainable approach to a beautiful yard?

Go Organic with Tick Management and Lawn Care Services from Growing Solutions.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation as to how our NOFA®-accredited team of experts can enhance your property.

growso.com

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