Natural Awakenings Fairfield County October 2011

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET feel good live simply laugh more

FREE

Special Edition

GREEN LIVING BLUE PLANET

OUR PRECIOUS

WATER

Don’t Take it for Granted

SUSTAINABLE FAIRFIELD Breast Thermography

Earlier Detection Saves Lives

October 2011 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

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

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

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

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

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

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

From left to right:

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

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

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

Call now for details.

Office located on the Fairfield/Trumbull line

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

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

SPECIAL OFFER: Sign up now! The next 50 Providers will receive a FREE NAN consumer membership ($109 value) - You too can enjoy discounts on hundreds of healthy living products & services!

NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com

Here are a Few of the Providers Who’ve Already Joined: Angelic Healing Center Camillo Health & Fitness Caroline Temple, MSW, LCSW Dew Yoga Dr. Deb Bossio, ND Dr. Henry Sobo, MD Dr. Kimberly Embry, DC Dr. Leonard Kundel, DDS Dr. LuAnn Moratto, DC Dr. Michael Gazsi, ND Dr. Sherry Stemper, ND Dr. Stacy Raymond, PsyD Eco Certified Skincare Fragrant Offerings

Greenwich Wellness Gumdrop Swap Kids Boutique In Balance Fitness Janet Luongo, Integrative Health & Lifestyle Educator Karen Drena, Holistic Health Practitioner Kelly Alvarez-Hopkins Lori Rafalof, Healing Practitioner Lotus Gardens Yoga School Massage Works Message from Angels Mindy Kannon, Nutrition Coach & Personal Chef Move2Wellness North American Power Energy Om Sweet Om Healing

Pat Ting, LAc Peace Tree Desserts Power of Avatar Ridgefield Salon & Spa Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute Sandra Eagle, LCSW Senior Helpers Sergiana Bruno, LMT Sharon Cravens, Intuitive Guide Smart Comfort Energy Solutions Tracy Franzen, LMT Trillium Architects Turning Point Reiki White Jade Wellness 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

Email Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com for info & application. FREE for the 1st year!

eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

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

Naturopathic Medicine Services Offered:

General Family Medicine Acupuncture Dr. Susan Rzucidlo, ND

Facial Rejuvenation– “The Natural Facelift” Pediatrics

Diet & Nutritional Counseling

Anthem, BC/BS, Oxford, Aetna insurance accepted

Botanical Medicine

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Visit over 100 exhibitors! the ultimate healthy holiday shopping experience!

Wednesday, november 2 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm hosted by the greenwich young professionals group

hilton stamford hotel grand Ballroom one First stamford place, stamford

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by Gr een wich Y PG

T EN I NM TA ER ENT A TMK SPORTS &

this unique event will feature leading organizations in health and wellness from connecticut and new york, including:

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complimentary healthy Food & drink! purchase health & Wellness gift certificates and products! health and Wellness door prizes! complimentary parking! general admission: $10 pp before november 2 $15 pp november 2 Fitness, dance & yoga demonstrations throughout the expo!

alternative medicine, integrative nutrition cleansing and detoxification with whole organic raw foods and live juices organic, natural, nutritional Foods from top restaurants, caterers, grocery stores, green grocers organic, natural Vitamin supplements organic Wines, spirits and non-alcoholic Beverages activewear Fashion and organic Fabrics chiropractors ergonomics, posture, Joint health Fitness, dance, yoga Financial health healthy homes and green technology health and Wellness coaching healthy Weight loss programs lifetime sports; tennis, soccer, walking, running, swimming, biking men’s health orthopaedics and sports medicine pet Wellness senior health and Wellness spa and Beauty treatments and much more . . .

For more information and to purchase tickets go to:

greenwichypg.com

For exhibit or sponsor information please call or email: tmK sports & entertainment, llc, 203.531.3047, tmKsande@aol.com *EREMY "OZ AUTHORIZED AGENT

support sponsors: Health. Join In.

www.individualinsurancect.com

media sponsors:

hosted By:

produced By:

design By:

eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

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Be allergy Free Perhaps Even for Life!

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

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

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

19 Thermography 30 Offers a Cellular Roadmap of the Body

by Dr. K. Pramila Vishvanath

30 Water, Water Everywhere...

But Will There Be Enough?

by Sandra Postel

34

34 Sustainable

Fairfield County:

“Reducing. Reusing.

Recycling.”

by Nancy Cohen

Visit allergyEliminationNorwalk.com for more information and a

FrEE E-Book Download: “How To Stop Suffering From Food Sensitivities, ‘Allergies’ and Digestion Problems” Allergy Elimination | Norwalk

Call Dr. Mark JoaChiM for a complimentary consultation. Over 10 years experience as an Advanced BioSET Practitioner.

ASSOCIATES IN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & NATURAL HEALTH CARE, P.C. 156 East Avenue, Norwalk

allergyEliminationNorwalk.com

(203) 838-1555

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Fairfield County Edition

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37 Sustainable

Fairfield County:

Local Progress

by Nancy Cohen

42 Fibromyalgia

Secrets Doctors Are Not TellingYou

by Dr. Scott Bender

44

44 Making the Most

of Botanical Medicine

by Dr. Tom Worden

48 Ecotherapy:

Feeling Finally at Home in Our Home World

by Craig Chalquist, PhD

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18 9 newsbriefs 14 fairfieldgreen 18 healthbriefs

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22 ecotip

22 actionalert 26 globalbriefs

22 50 calendar 56 classified

58 resourceguide

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

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

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

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

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.

Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut Danbury, Norwalk, Stamford

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...

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 eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

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letterfrompublisher

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

ature is a great teacher. Now that autumn has arrived and nights are longer and cooler, biochemical processes occurring in leaves create a rich array of color before they fall to earth for nature’s own “recycling.” The leaves ultimately decompose and restock the soil with nutrients that are vital to the eco-system. And life’s cycle begins anew…

Last month’s Awakenings celebration brought together healing arts practitioners and Fairfield County residents Carolyn Aversano through over 100 classes to enhance personal wellness. This October edition expands the personal into the planetary, sharing many ways local citizens and governments are working for the health of our natural resources.

Humans and nature are inextricably linked. We require clean air, water and other resources for survival. Taking without also tending diminishes those resources. Though the World Health Organization states one billion people around the world lack access to safe drinking water, this month’s feature article, “Water, Water Everywhere…But Will There Be Enough?” offers ways communities can begin altering that statistic to assure equitable sharing of this essential resource.

Tired by the country’s current mistrust of government and focus on opposition rather than accomplishment? This edition offers a new perspective, a sense of hope. It provides information about some of the many Fairfield County citizens, businesses and officials who are taking the lead, finding common ground, and working individually and collectively toward a future in which we not only survive, but thrive. Though one article cannot possibly encompass all of the “green” work being done, “Sustainable Fairfield County” exemplifies some of the advancements made here and encourages each of us to do something to make a difference.

May this invitation to help create and sustain more vibrant, healthy homes, communities and world, offer inspiration to keep awakening…naturally.

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.

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

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

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

Natural Awakenings is looking for Advertising Sales professionals.

Part-time position working from home. Must be outgoing, organized, and have excellent communication skills and ad sales experience. The ideal candidate has solid ad sales experience and a genuine passion for making a difference in the community, looking for a flexible opportunity to earn extra income while enjoying an extraordinary personal growth opportunity. Additional groundfloor sales opportunities for new programs are also possible for the right candidate. 20 hrs/week, minimum commitment.

Call 203.885.4674 natural awakenings

newsbriefs

The best thing about our products is what we leave out!

Dr. Breiner’s Whole Body Dentistry® Is Published

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uantum Health Press announces the release of Whole Body Dentistry®: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Impact of Dentistry on Total Health. Connecticut author Mark A. Breiner DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.

He is a health visionary with over 30 years of experience, with a private dental practice in Trumbull.

Whole-Body Dentistry® represents a shift away from the traditional “mouth-only” orientation of dentistry, which is focused on oral hygiene, fillings, and extractions. This revolutionary view of dentistry recognizes that issues in the mouth can trigger seemingly unrelated physical illnesses. Understanding the concepts in this comprehensive guide and reference will help patients make better and more informed dental-treatment choices in order to achieve a higher level of health. Valuable and necessary both for consumers and health practitioners, Breiner’s book provides clear, concise, and vital information for the consumer. It addresses current controversies and their impact on total health, while explaining the new diagnostic tools and treatment protocols now available. It offers resources for finding dentists, physicians, products and services, and directs readers to valuable websites that expand education on critical topics.

This revolutionary book can be purchased at local and online bookstores for $21.95 or direct from WholeBodyDentistry.com. Dr. Breiner’s dental practice is located at 5520 Park Avenue, on the Trumbull/Fairfield line. See ad pg 2.

No Ammonia No Parabens No Scalp Staining No Scalp Discomfort Just beautiful colors which last longer

WITHOUT using harsh chemicals!

Now Offering Kerragreen Keratin Smoothing System

B

100% Organic, No Formaldehyde!

Briana Salon 15 Square Acre Dr. Stamford

Kim Roach 203.461.9543 x1 Book Appointments Online At:

Vagaro.com/KimRoachAtBrianaSalon Mon & Wed 9-7p, Thu 9-2p, Sat 9-5p

Detect critical health issues 8-10 years BEFORE mammograms with Thermal Imaging

A Mind/Body/Spirit Conception Series

T

his fall, Norwalk-based Limitless Potential presents the Conscious Conception Seminar Series. Founded and directed by Nina Antolino, RYT, MBA, Limitless Potential is a consulting and coaching practice offering women’s empowerment workshops, seminars, wellness programs, and personal and professional coaching. Nina’s own personal challenge with fertility at the age of 40 led to her pursuit of a mind/body/spirit approach to conception. “I was told that because of my age, endometriosis, and an FSH of 27, it wouldn’t be possible for me to conceive. And yet, within three months, I conceived on my own. My mission is to educate, empower and encourage women to trust in their creative power and stay open to possibilities.” The seminar series will connect women with each other and with a community of integrative practitioners, two seminars each week, inspirational success stories, and experiential sessions of yoga, meditation, Reiki and more. The series offers 16 nationally recognized experts and authors including Dr. Paul Epstein, ND, author of Happiness Through Meditation, Dr. Joel Evans, MD, author of Whole

inflammation

• 100% safe & FDA-approved • Safe for implants, mastectomy & pregnancy • No radiation or painful breast compression • Monitor & assess pain & pathology anywhere on the body

Call (203) 856-1421 or visit

www.AlbaThermalImaging.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

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GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...

naturally.

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD

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

You may have an undetected nutritional or hormonal imbalance.

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

Pregnancy Handbook, and a special guest teleseminar with Kristen Magnacca, speaker, coach and author of Love & Infertility and Girlfriend to Girlfriend: a Fertility Companion.

There will be free raffles, discounted wellness services, book signings, and teleseminar sessions. Dr. Christiane Northrup explains, “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 emotional factors, and that you can consciously work with this to enhance your ability to have a baby.”

The seminar sessions will take place on Mondays, from October 3 to November 21, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Total Life Care Center, 152 East Avenue, Norwalk. For more details contact Nina Antolino at 914.393.9221 or visit Limitless-Potential.net. See ad pg 26.

Habitat’s Women Build Program Is a Power Tool

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

203-324-4747 – GoToDrDoyle.com

H

Core Energetics

20%

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

Teresa Bulit-Gordon Core Energetics Practitioner

For more information please visit my website at:

www.awakentoyourcore.com

by email at Tbul1@optonline.net or call 203.570.2876

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

abitat for Humanity of Fairfield County invites you to join Women Build, their program for women who want to learn construction skills in order to build homes, communities and stronger families, while making new friends. Women Build brings together women from all walks of life to address the affordable housing crisis facing low-income working women and children living in poverty housing in affluent Fairfield County.

Women who join Women Build’s W.A.T.C.H. (Women Accepting the Challenge of Housing) circle participate in special build days and deeply impact our community. If you don’t have any construction skills, don’t worry! Many women come to Women Build with no construction skills at all. All training is provided.

You can also assist Women Build without ever entering a construction site by volunteering time at the ReStore office or on event committees.

Please call 203.333.2642 and mention Women Build to receive more information. Visit habitatcfc.org to make a donation to Women Build, join the W.A.T.C.H circle, sponsor a W.A.T.C.H. member or help us spread the word about Women Build. See ad pg 62.

We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one. ~Jacques-Yves Cousteau

Health & Wellness Expo: The Ultimate Healthy Holiday Shopping

Onus Tribus ~ Onus Domus

A Holistic Healing & Education Center

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

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

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

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

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

203 -727- 8685

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he Health & Wellness Expo 2011 Fall Show at the Hilton Stamford Hotel on Wednesday, November 2 will feature over 100 exhibitors, fitness, yoga and dance demonstrations and an opportunity to purchase healthy products, gift certificates and more for the holidays.

Exhibits will cover alternative medicine, integrated nutrition, organic and natural vitamin supplements, weight management, fitness programs, ergonomics, spa and beauty treatments, fashion and lifetime sports. There will be physicians, including internists, holistic dentistry and sports medicine specialists, as well as experts in holistic health, homeopathy, chiropractics, acupuncture, reflexology, herbal medicine, biofeedback and more.

The event is hosted by the Greenwich Young Professionals Group and produced

by TMK Sports & Entertainment.

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

X

RAYS

TO

For more information about thermography:

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

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 on November 2. Admission includes healthy refreshments from area restaurants and caterers, parking and the chance to win a healthy door prize. The Expo will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The Hilton Stamford Hotel is located at 1 First Stamford Place.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit GreenwichYPG.com. Exhibit space is still available. For information, call 203.531.3047. Natural Awakenings is proud to sponsor this event. See ad pg 5. eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

11

Good “Car-ma” Awaits...

Let Greater Life Flow Through “The Bars”

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?

We will help you decide.

Any Make! Any Model! Anywhere!

The Best Way to Buy or Lease a Car Ever!!

Get expert advice on which car is right for you. Never get ripped off again!

SageAutoAdvisor.com • (800) 964 - 4211 Gigi Benanti

ACUPUNCTURE & Chiropractic Celebrating 20 Years in Practice MyNewtownDoctor.com

Dr. J.M. Popowich

Neck & Back Pain - Allergies Headaches - Stress - Injuries

$75

(203)304-9037

Evaluation & Initial Treatment

87 S. Main Street, Newtown

G

igi Benanti is an experienced Reiki Master who has owned the Angelic Healing Center in Norwalk since 1995.

As a Reiki therapist for a hospice agency, she searched for a way to address many persistently challenging hospice issues.

At Unity Center in Norwalk she discovered “The Bars,” an aspect of Access Consciousness, a set of tools and processes designed to facilitate a higher consciousness. “The Bars store the electromagnetic component of all the thoughts, ideas, attitudes, decisions and beliefs that you have ever had about anything,” Gigi explains. “There are Bars for healing, body, control, awareness, creativity, power, aging, money, and more. Each fixed idea limits your capacity to invite something different to show up in your life with ease. Simply put, working with the Bars is like performing reflexology on your head.”

Experience the Bars in October: first Thursday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Unity Center, 3 Main Street, Norwalk (203.855.7922). Love offering. Also Monday, October 10, 7 p.m. at Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Avenue, Norwalk. Receive handson treatment for clearing and healing, and take-away tools. Fee: $28. Registration necessary. Call Gigi at 203.852.1150 or visit AngelHealReiki.com. See ad pg 62.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Breast Thermography Now in New Canaan, Fairfield

X

to Rays Thermal Imaging, LLC announces that Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) will now be offered at Maud Joseph’s Reflexology Center in New Canaan and at Maggie French Massage Therapy Center in Fairfield. DITI is FDA approved for breast cancer screening and is especially beneficial to women with dense breasts, implants and who Suzanne Pyle fear mammograms’ pain and radiation. Suzanne Pyle, owner of X to Rays, states that DITI is totally safe, 95% accurate and can detect cancerous activity eight years before a mammogram. Both Suzanne and Geralene Valentine are Certified Clinical Thermographers with extensive training in all DITI applications. Besides monitoring breast health, DITI can distinguish between nerve or muscle pain, and identifies such pathologies as arthritis, arteriosclerosis, digestion problems, fibromyalgia, lymph congestion, RSD

Geralene Valentine and thyroid dysfunctions. “Even with breast cancer screening,” Geralene adds, “we see a much larger area than mammograms and can comment on the health of the thyroid and lymph nodes.

Suzanne continues, “Also, full- or half-body scans are great for managing health issues. I’ve helped many people monitor their treatment and even their supplements. Thermal imaging helps them decide about whether to stay the course or to change it.”

For more information, call X to Rays Thermal Imaging at 866XtoRays (203.986.7297) or 203.331.2878 or visit XtoRays.com. Maud Joseph’s Reflexology Center in New Canaan is at 25 Burtis Avenue and Maggie French Massage Therapy Center is at 20 Reef Road, Fairfield. See ad pg 11.

Have news to share?

Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit News Briefs. Deadline: October 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

by Appointment

(203) 554-1238 HildaReikiLover.com

HildaReikiLover@optonline.net

Safe • Earth-friendly Non-toxic • Aromatic

Provide the healthiest environment for your family & pets!

Professional, dependable service.

Priced the same as traditional, toxic cleaning services... so given the choice why wouldn't you choose the safe, natural alternative?

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE!

Ines Japa 203.313.5155 eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2011

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fairfieldgreen Be the solution.

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

Place Trees Wisely for High Performance

C

hris Baliko of Growing Solutions reminds us that, aside from the most important functions trees p e r f o r m — u s i n g c a rbon dioxide in the photosynthesis process and releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere— trees offer even more when placed in specific locations on a property. Shade trees planted on the south and southwest side of a house will provide welcome Chris Baliko shade during the hot summer months, keeping a house significantly cooler. Evergreen trees planted along the north and northwest sides of a house will create a natural windbreak that helps reduce heating costs. Evergreens can also be used to provide privacy. Trees also enhance our

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

property values, adding to more than just the bottom line.

They create spring flower color, wonderful fall foliage and, during the long, dark winter months, trees with exfoliating bark, such as the native river birch, add interest to our gardens. Witch hazel even flowers in February! Such native species as tupelo, river birch, red bud, white pine, and service berry adapt better to our soil and climate conditions, requiring less watering and fertilizing maintenance. Overall, the best strategy is to plant the right plant in the right spot for optimal growth and minimal maintenance.

Chris Baliko, AOLCP, Growing Solutions, LLC, can be reached at 203.730.1103 (extension 2), or Chris@GrowSo.com.

Visit GrowSo.com. See Back Cover ad.

Has Hurricane Irene Really Left Your House?

E

ven after the water Hurricane Irene left in our basements is gone, a great deal of moisture remains in many homes, and the old dehumidifier is just not getting the job done, says Paul Toms of Ridgefield’s Damp Basement Solutions. Concrete foundations can absorb between three to five times their weight in water, for one thing. And then there’s the moisture removal that’s absolutely necessary for reducing mold spores, along with the urgent need for air movement, since stale, stagnant air allows mold to grow at an accelerated rate. Toms says the amount of moisture his EZ Breathe Ventilation System removes is equal to the amount removed by seven dehumidifiers running at the same time. The quiet EZ Breathe System exchanges a home’s fresh air seven to ten times daily, covering up to 7,000 square feet of living space, always supplying fresh air instead, and uses only $2 to $4 worth of energy per month. There are three installation options, ranging from slabs and crawlspaces to unfinished basement walls, and even under drywall. The flexibility of this unit makes it ideal for use in both homes and businesses, Toms says.

“We are thrilled with your product,” says customer A. Bourden.

“Our windows are finally free of moisture.”

Take Care of Yourself and your Home... Naturally!

• Home Care • Laundry Care • Hair Care • Baby Care • Pet Care • Organic Soaps • Soy Candles • Gift Baskets • Face & Body Products

Natural & Organic Home and Body Products

Free Shipping! ($50 minimum order)

Shop Online!

10% OFF online orders: enter promo code 0711NA10

For more information about the EZ Breathe System call 203.422.9751 or visit DampBasementSolutions.com. See ad pg 17.

THINK BEFORE YOU BUY:

1. Is it recycled or made from sustainable materials?

2. Is it resource saving?

3. Is it vintage or pre-owned?

Asking these questions before you buy can help you make a green choice.

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

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

October 2011

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fairfieldgreen Be the solution.

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

Everyone Benefits at the ReStore Donors - By donating new or slightly used building materials, furniture and appliances, you can help improve our community while receiving a tax deduction.

Earth - Whether you buy or donate materials, you are reducing the amount of usable building materials going to a landfill.

Yo H Community - The proceeds from the ReStore will help to build wor additional Habitat homes for hard working low-income families.

A

division of Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County, the ReStore accepts donations of new or nearly new building supplies, furniture and appliances from individuals, contractors, and businesses.

Some materials are used to build Habitat homes, and any extra materials will be sold at the Habitat ReStore. Proceeds from the ReStore benefit Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County.

Customers – Can save 50% to 90% off retail prices on home improvement materials, furniture and appliances of all kinds.

The ReStore is open to the public, and free pick up of donations is available. The ReStore is located at 1785 Stratford Avenue in Stratford, and Shalvoy’s Lane in Danbury. For more information, or to schedule a donation pick up call 203. 383.4358 or email ReStore@habitatcfc.org. See ad pg 62.

Wrong Size? Wrong Colo Or Just Tire C Don’t Throw It Away!

WE’LL TAKE IT!! w

ORGANIC RAW FOOD & EVENTS 39 Unquowa Rd Ffld

Custom Designed Home & School Gardens

Thurs 10/13 6:30pm Steve Meyerowitz!

Thurs 10/20 6:30pm Sat. 10/22 12-4pm Dr.sʼ Rick & Karin Dina Mon. 10/24 6:30pm Dr. Gabriel Cousens

Maintenance –– Animal Animal Resistant LowLow Maintenance Resistant JustAdd Add Sun Sun™™ Just

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Healthy HouseCleaning, Healthier You

Is the AIR inside your home making your family

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bacteria

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he evidence is mounting against the common housecleaning products that many of us have grown up with. These “household names” may be what our mothers used, but unfortunately they are making us sick. A study recently published in the influential journal Environmental Health reports that frequent use of these products may increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer. In some cases the cancer risks were doubled with combined use of these familiar products. Luckily, Elegant Lifestyle Organic Home Cleaning Service is up to the job of cleaning your house without wiping you out. The company uses only bleach-free products that are naturally aromatic and safe for the whole family, including children and pets. Even family members with allergies and medical conditions such as chemical sensitivities are in good hands with Elegant Lifestyle.

Your house or office—they service both homes and businesses throughout Fairfield County—will be cleaned with an Organic Vacuum, which filters dust and does an extraordinarily thorough job.

Elegant Lifestyle’s pricing is competitive with cleaning services that use conventional products, and they can supply the highest references.

Elegant Lifestyle Organic Home Cleaning Service can be reached at 203.313.5155.

Call for a free estimate. See ad pg 13.

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healthbriefs

The Science Behind an Apple a Day

A

ccording to Bahram H. Arjmandi, PhD, a registered dietician and chair of the Department of Nutrition, Food and Exercise Sciences at Florida State University, there is scientific truth in the adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The nationally recognized nutrition researcher, a Margaret A. Sitton professor, maintains that apples are a “miracle fruit,” providing health benefits beyond fiber.

Earlier animal studies have shown that the pectin and polyphenols in apples improve lipid metabolism and lower the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. Arjmandi’s new study is the first to evaluate the long-term cardio-protective effects of eating apples daily. He randomly assigned 160 women, ages 45 to 65, to one of two dietary intervention groups: one received 75 grams of dried apples each day (the equivalent of four or five fresh apples); the other ate dried prunes.

Arjmandi reports surprising results: “Incredible changes in the apple-eating women happened by six months—they experienced a 23 percent decrease in LDL [bad] cholesterol.”

Daily apple consumption also led to lower levels of C-reactive protein, which is known to trigger inflammation in the body. In another unexpected benefit, the apple-eaters lost an average of 3.3 pounds.

Source: Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology

CAUTIONARY NEWS ABOUT CALCIUM

N

Vibrant Health • Colon Hydrotherapy NEW LOCATION! • Massage Therapy Mountain Therapeutics • Weight Loss Wellness Center / Georgetown • Cleanse Protocols Ridgefield off Rte. 7 • Balance Blood Sugar Marisa DelMonaco • (203) 544-1090

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ew research published online in the British Medical Journal adds to mounting evidence that calcium supplements may increase the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly heart attacks, in postmenopausal women. Many older women take calcium supplements to manage osteoporosis, but after re-analyzing data on 16,718 women participating in the seven-year Women’s Health Initiative Calcium/Vitamin D Supplementation Study, researchers at the University of Auckland, in New Zealand, now urge reassessment of calcium prescriptions to maintain bone health. Their metastudy showed that postmenopausal women that took combined calcium and vitamin D supplements had increased risk of heart attacks.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Thermography Offers a Cellular Roadmap of the Body

T

hermography has been subjected to nearly 40 years of rigorous research and has been reviewed in as many as 600 published studies. That’s part of what makes it such a trusted and highly regarded procedure.

In fact, it is 90% effective at detecting potential problem areas in breast tissue up to 10 years prior to detection by mammograms or sonograms.

In addition to being a valuable aid in the fight against breast cancer, thermography has proven effective at diagnosing a host of illnesses and conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, orthopedic problems, risk of stroke, vascular disorders and much more.

Thermology (the established science behind modern thermography) is arguably as old as medicine itself. The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates believed that excessive heat or cold in the body indicated the presence of disease. That early scientific foundation led to the development of modern medical thermography about 30 years ago. Today’s thermograms are heat-sensitive photographs taken with sophisticated infrared cameras. As our bodies age and evolve, so do our cells. Regular thermograms can track our cellular evolution and reveal any number of potential health issues well in advance of their diagnosis. For this reason, many doctors have come to think of thermograms as a cellular roadmap of the human body.

It’s important to know that, unlike mammograms, thermograms do not impart any radiation to the body. Instead, a thermogram is a measurement of the natural radiation that is emitted through the skin. Another benefit of thermography is that it does not require compression of the breast as mammograms do. In fact, a thermogram doesn’t involve any contact with the body. That’s what makes thermography so safe and non-invasive.

In a thermal image of the breast, potential problem areas are indicated by abnormal temperature readings. Thermograms are not intended to replace traditional screening methods such as mammograms and ultrasound. Rather, thermology is a helpful complement to these traditional diagnostic tools.

On its own, a thermogram cannot locate a tumor. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to indicate likelihood of future cancerous growth. For this reason, women in their teens and twenties can integrate thermology into their breast health programs as an early detection strategy. Thermology is of particular benefit for

women who have conditions that interfere with mammography readings: i.e., pregnant or lactating women, non-menopausal women, women who have used hormone replacement therapy, have a history of fibroids, prior biopsies, or who have exceptionally small or large breasts.

Women should consult their doctor for a complete breast exam;

• Ask what you can do to monitor and ensure your own breast health. This should include a tutorial on regular selfexamination, healthy foods and nutritional consultation with your doctor;

• Schedule a thermogram now to determine your own potential for breast cancer and, if necessary, appropriate treatment;

• Learn more about the advantages of naturopathy, such as non-invasive therapies, natural remedies, and a holistic, balanced approach to healthcare.

Source: Dr. K. Pramila Vishvanath, LCEH, PA, ND, Director of Integrated Health Center, located at 2324 Post Road, Fairfield. For more information call 203.259.2700 or visit IntegratedHealthCenterOnline.com. See ad pg 21.

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October 2011

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healthbriefs

Antibiotics not an Answer for Asthmatic Kids

A

new study led by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, reveals that some antibiotics may be overprescribed for children with asthma. Of the 5,198 outpatient visits included in the analysis, antibiotics were routinely ordered during nearly one in six visits, although national health guidelines do not currently recommend them as a therapy.

However, when best practices for treating asthma and preventing attacks were discussed by pediatricians during office visits, patients were less likely to receive antibiotic prescriptions. The researchers suggest that doctors spend more time educating their patients about alternatives, as well as potential side effects of the drugs.

According to Dr. Kris De Boeck, from the University Hospital of Leuven, in Belgium, the side effects from overuse of antibiotics may include compromised immune systems, potentially worse asthma symptoms and the spread of antibioticresistant “superbugs.”

Source: Pediatrics and Reuters Health

20

Fairfield County Edition

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S

}

BRAINPAINT. ASYRA. ONDAMED. And other noticeably effective naturopathic approaches you probably never heard of.

SAFFLOWER OIL — GOOD FOR THE HEART

afflower oil, a common cooking oil, may help improve insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation and blood sugar levels, and elevate HDL (good) cholesterol in overweight women with Type 2 diabetes, according to new research from Ohio State University. The study also revealed that the oil helps reduce abdominal fat, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The findings indicate that a daily dietary dose of one and two-thirds teaspoons is sufficient for a person to benefit from the oil’s health-protective effects.

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I

n the largest study ever done on the effects of perfluorocarbons (PFCs) on women’s hormone systems, West Virginia University researchers found in blood tests that higher levels of these manmade chemicals are associated with early menopausal symptoms in females aged 42 to 64. Premature menopause has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cardiovascular disease.

Researchers collected data from 25,957 women, measuring serum concentration levels of PFCs and the female hormone estradiol, and reported a definite association between PFC exposure, decreased estradiol and early menopause. Women with high blood levels of PFCs also had significantly lower concentrations of estrogen, compared with peers showing low levels of the chemicals.

PFCs are found in many common household products, including food containers, clothing, furniture, carpets and paints. Their broad use has resulted in widespread dissemination in water, air, soil, plant life, animals and humans, even in remote parts of the world.

A probability sample of U.S. adults conducted by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found measurable concentrations of PFCs in 98 percent of the participants tested.

Source: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism

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October 2011

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ecotip

actionalert

Ablution Solution

Millions Against Monsanto

Water-Saving Bathroom Tips There’s a regular waterworks in modern bathrooms— sinks, commode, tub, shower—maybe even a bidet.

All are necessary sanitation fixtures, but need to be used properly to avoid wasting precious water and processing extra waste. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirms that bathroom activities account for more than half of indoor water use. n First, find and fix any possible plumbing leaks from pipes, faucets, flappers, valves and drains that can run up the water bill, even when no one is home. Then consider replacing aerators on faucets to reduce water flow, but not pressure, for a tiny cost with big returns. An EPA WaterSense label indicates a wise choice. n Toilets use 30 percent of bathroom water, so make sure household utility bills aren’t paying the high cost of an old-fashioned (1990s or older) 3.5- to 7-gallons-per-flush type; modern fixtures use about a gallon-and-a-half. Dual-flush toilets (for number one and number two) save even more. Universal conversion kits are affordably priced. n Chuck the commode altogether and switch to a composting toilet. It may seem radical and expensive, but will also use less water and even process the waste onsite (more details at tinyurl.com/37swkz). n A low-flow showerhead makes a big difference. Start with a test: Fill up a gallon bucket at full pressure; if it takes more than 20 seconds, it’s a low-flow device.

Because nobody wants to walk into a cold shower, most people tend to wastefully let the water run a bit first. Fortunately, gadgets such as Showerstart are available that cut any water flow to a trickle as soon as it gets hot, which saves water and also signals that the water has warmed up.

World Food Day, October 16, will feature rallies against genetically engineered foods. Last year’s La Via Campesina movement (ViaCampesina. org) called for actions around the world to denounce the role of agribusinesses such as Monsanto in the destruction and corporatization of biodiversity and life. This year, organizers are urging people to join the international cause by participating in local rallies.

World Food Day actions are planned in 36 U.S. cities, with close to 600,000 registered supporters. A 300mile march from New York to Washington, D.C., punctuated by special events, also is scheduled from October 1 to 16 to support local and global efforts to keep genetically modified organisms (GMO) out of the food supply and demand GMO labeling on all food and drink products.

Search Facebook, YouTube and Twitter for Millions Against Monsanto and visit tinyurl.com/4luqn3t and Right2Know March.org.

n The EPA estimates that a shower uses 10 to 25 gallons, compared to 70 gallons for a bath, so save the more water-intensive rub-a-dub-dub for a special occasion—perhaps with some bath salts, candles and music. n Alter personal habits to shower more quickly and turn off the tap between wetting and rinsing; the same goes for hand washing, tooth brushing and shaving.

Visit Water Sense online at tinyurl.com/y9b9j5b.

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Fairfield County Edition

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October 2011

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

No Nukes

Germany to Shutter All Reactors by 2022 German Chancellor Angela Merkel has committed to shutting down all 17 of Germany’s nuclear reactors by 2022.

Eight will be permanently switched off by the end of this year, including seven that were disconnected for safety inspections in March.

The country plans to compensate for the closures with a plan to reduce electricity consumption by 10 percent and double the share of renewable energy sources to 35 percent by 2020. A new report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and the International Institute for Applied System Analysis revealed that Europe’s overall renewable energy capacity rose 30 percent in 2010.

European Union Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger said that Germany could achieve its goals only if it also invests in better grid infrastructure, storage capacity and forward planning, as well as more renewable energies. Merkel defended the decision, saying, “Our energy system has to be fundamentally changed and can be fundamentally changed. We want the electricity of the future to be safer and at the same time, reliable and economical.”

Source: BusinessGreen.com

Inappropriate Eats

Fish Consume Plastic from Human Trash

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Fairfield County Edition

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, as dubbedClinical by scientists, is a region of Massage Therapy floating trash in the ocean that is twice Yoga • Chi Fit • Qi-Gong the size of Texas. It comprises plastic Tai Chi Easy debris that includes toys, cups, wrapAcupuncture • Hypnosis pers and bottles that slowly degrade Health Workshops from the sun’s rays and wave action into ever-smaller fragments until fish often mistake them for food. This finding, from a new study by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, could have serious implications for the food chain.

Relax...And discover the fish

Scientists examined 141 fish across 27 species and estimated that small direction yourmostly inner tidbits compass. were eating as much as 24,000 tons of plastic waste each of year, haveincreated the had idealplastic space in smaller than a fingernail, and that nearly one in We 10 fish the region and which location to help you take a its stomach. Most fish in the study were lantern fish, dwell at depths of 650 much deserved break the to 3,200 feet during the day, but then swim near the surface at night to from feed on “doing” and practice “being.” plankton, where they often gulp plastic by mistake.

Small fragments of plastic could leach toxins into the fish, stunt their 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT growth, alter reproduction or even kill them. It is unclear what impact 208.403.2522 that small, plastic-affected fish have upon larger fish that eat them, and ultimately on huwww.move2wellness.com man fish-eaters.

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

- Patrice B. (note: Patrice B. eventually lost 50 lbs!)

Appliance Awareness

BEFORE

Home Electronics Getting Greener

Greenpeace has compiled their third annual survey of the “greenest” home electronics products from 18 companies in seven categories—desktops, laptops, netbooks, mobile phones, televisions, monitors and smart phones— based on their environmental impact (tinyurl.com/23pxpsc). Considerations included hazardous substances, power consumption, product lifecycle (recycling potential) and innovation in marketing (carbon footprint).

The survey found a significant overall reduction in the use of hazardous chemicals since last year, with more products made without toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and brominated fire retardant (BFR). The use of phthalates, beryllium and antimony (heavy metals) and their associated compounds also went down in every category.

Almost all products submitted for the survey met or exceeded the current Energy Star standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

However, one conclusion of the report is that companies seemed to put more effort into improving the overall energy efficiency of operating their products rather than reducing the embedded energy, or carbon footprint, involved in manufacturing them.

Lifecycle management continues to be the weakest eco-link when it comes to electronics production. The researchers found little use of recycled plastic, take-back practices, and marketing efforts aimed to prevent rapid obsolescence.

Source: Greenpeace

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October 2011

27

globalbriefs Water Wiz

Science Project Saves a Gusher

wellness fair DoubleTree Hotel, Tarrytown NY Nov. 19, 2011 from 10 am to 5 pm

The Biggest Body-Mind-Spirit-Green Fair North of NYC Our 10th anniversary year!

Exhibitors • Speakers Practitioners • Readers Media Partner

Out of the mouths of babes sometimes comes great wisdom.

Seven-year-old Mason Perez won a school science fair in Reno, Nevada, for his project addressing water usage efficiency. Now, two years later, the principles he outlined have been used to save his city tens of thousands of gallons of water.

The Reno Gazette-Journal reports that the boy’s inspiration came from an experience in a baseball field restroom, where he found the pressure of the sink’s faucet excessive. He turned it down and it still worked fine. For the project, Perez used a bucket and a stopwatch to measure water flow at several residences. By reducing the pressure while maintaining usability, he recorded savings of up to 24 percent. He repeated his experiments at several local businesses with the same positive results.

Because the default position for valves in new construction is often 100 percent open, it is a simple procedure to adjust them to achieve a more efficient rate. Perez convinced the ballpark’s manager to try it, resulting in a 20 percent water savings for the municipal facility. The local utility, Truckee Meadows Water Authority, is now assessing whether the idea can be implemented in other parks, public schools, casinos and private homes.

Source: Treehugger.com

Wa k e U p N a t u r a l l y. c o m

Fountains of Distinction

Custom Designers and Builders of Water Fountains Call David Johnston today!

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www.AwakenFair.com 28

Fairfield County Edition

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560 North Main St • Bristol, CT sales@fountainsofdistinction.com

Preventing Extinction

GPS Biking

How long does it take a species to disappear forever? It turns out that habitat destruction drives species to extinction more slowly than previously thought, according to a new model described in the journal Nature. The pace at which plants and animals are vanishing from the planet as their habitats shrink may be overstated by as much as 160 percent or more.

An approach widely used to estimate extinctions from habitat loss is conceptually flawed, says a study in the publication. Researchers say that their new method more accurately reflects the interplay of shrinking habitats and the populations that rely on them. The new study is one of at least two that highlight scientists’ efforts to sharpen the tools needed to track the scope of the species-extinction problem and to design better approaches for dealing with it.

The development of a new tool for estimating extinctions, “... is welcome news, in the sense that we have bought a little time for saving species,” says Stephen Hubbell, an ecologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, and one of two scientists who performed the analysis. “But it’s [also] unwelcome news,” he adds, “because we have to redo a whole bunch of research performed using the previous method.”

Want to know how far it’s possible to travel by biking or using public transit in under 15 minutes? There’s a map for that. Mapnificent shows the areas one can reach from any point in a city at any given time.

Stefan Wehrmeyer, a Berlin-based software architect, has developed a tool that uses public transit data to help users decide on where to live, work or meet up. Using data from the GTFS Data Exchange and overlaying the extracted information on a Google map, Mapnificent visualizes the reach of public transport in the selected city. This becomes especially useful for decision-making purposes, rather than trip planning.

“Let’s say you found a job in San Francisco and want to move there,” Wehrmeyer explains. “Where can you live so that you need less than 30 minutes to go to your work place?

Mapnificent is able to answer that question.”

Mapnificent is available in public beta and can be used for major cities in the United States.

Buying Time for Threatened Species

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

Mapnificent Will Show the Way

Source: TheCityFix.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE… But Will There Be Enough?

by Sandra Postel

For at least three decades, Americans have talked about our uncertain energy future, but we’ve mostly ignored another worrisome crisis—water.

C

heap and seemingly abundant, water is so common that it’s hard to believe we could ever run out of it. Ever since the Apollo 8 astronauts photographed Earth from space in 1968, we’ve had the image of our home as a strikingly blue planet, a place of great water wealth. But of all the water on Earth, only about 2.5 percent is fresh—and two-thirds of that is locked up in glaciers and ice caps.

Less than one hundredth of 1 percent of Earth’s water is fresh and available.

Across the United States and around the world, we’re already reaching or overshooting the limits of Earth’s natural replenishment of fresh water through the hydrologic cycle. The Colorado and Rio Grande rivers are now so over-tapped that they discharge little or no water into the sea for months at a time. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the massive Ogallala Aquifer, which

spans parts of eight states, from southern South Dakota to northwest Texas, and provides 30 percent of the groundwater used for irrigation in the country, is steadily being depleted. In much of the world, we’re growing food and supplying water to communities by over-pumping groundwater. This creates a potential crisis in the food economy: We are meeting some of today’s food needs with tomorrow’s water.

The Changing Climate Equation

Due to climate change, we may no longer be able to count on familiar patterns of rain and snow and river flow to refill our urban reservoirs, irrigate our farms and power our dams. While farmers in the Midwest were recovering from the spring flood of 2008 (in some areas, the second “100-year flood” in 15 years), farmers in California and Texas allowed

cropland to lie fallow and sent cattle to early slaughter to cope with the drought of 2009.

In the Southeast, after 20 months of dryness, then-Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue stood outside the state capitol in November 2007 and led a prayer for rain. Two years later, he was pleading instead for federal aid, after intense rainfall near Atlanta caused massive flooding that claimed eight lives.

This year again saw record regional precipitation, this time producing epic flooding in the Mississippi and Missouri river basins.

Climate scientists warn of more extreme droughts and floods and changing precipitation patterns that will continue to make weather, storms and natural disasters more severe and less predictable. As a policy forum in the journal Science notes, the historical data and statistical tools used to plan billions of dollars worth of annual global investment in dams, flood control structures, diversion projects and other big pieces of water infrastructure are no longer reliable. Yet today’s decisions about using, allocating and managing water will determine the survival of most of the planet’s species, including our own.

Shifting Course

For most of modern history, water management has focused on bringing water under human control and transferring it to expanding cities, industries and farms via dams, large water-transfer projects and wells that tap underground aquifers. Major water programs have allowed cities like Phoenix and Las

Desalination plants produce less than 0.5 percent of the water used in the world.

Source: National Geographic

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natural awakenings

Vegas to thrive in the The United States withdraws irony: by burning more fossil fuels desert, the expansion more fresh water per capita and by making local of world food production, and rising than any other country, much water supplies more and more depenliving standards for of which we could save.

The dent on increasingly hundreds of milvast majority of demand does expensive energy, lions. But globally, they have worsened not require drinkable water. desalination creates more problems than social inequities as it solves. Producing tens of millions of Source: Pacific Institute one cubic meter of poor people are disdrinkable water from salt water requires located from their homes to make way about two kilowatt-hours of electricity, for dams and canals, while hundreds of using present technology. millions in downstream communities lose the currents that Water for People and sustain their livelihoods.

Nature

Such approaches also ignore water’s limits and the value of healthy eco- Thus, a vanguard of citizens, communities, farmers and corporations are thinksystems. Today, many rivers flow like ing about water in a new way. They’re plumbing works, turned on and off like water from a faucet. It’s tougher for fish, asking what we really need the water for, and whether we can meet that mussels, river birds and other aquatic need with less. The result of this shift in life to survive; a 2008 assessment led thinking is a new movement in water by the USGS found that 40 percent of management that focuses on ingenuity all fish species in North America are at and ecological intelligence instead of risk of extinction. big pumps, pipelines, dams and canals.

Meanwhile, many leaders and loThese solutions tend to work with calities are calling for even bigger vernature, rather than against it, making sions of past water management strateeffective use of the “ecosystem services” gies. By some estimates, the volume of provided by healthy watersheds and water relocated through river transfer wetlands. Through better technologies schemes could more than double globand informed choices, they seek to raise ally by 2020. But mega-projects are risky in a warming world, where rainfall water productivity and make every drop count. and river flow patterns are changing

Communities are finding that proin uncertain ways and require costly tecting watersheds is an effective way to power for pumping, moving, treating make sure water supplies are clean and and distributing at each stage. reliable; plus, they can do the work of

Some planners and policymakers a water treatment plant in filtering out are eyeing desalination as a silver bullet pollutants at a lower cost. New York City solution to potential water shortages. is investing $1.5 billion to restore and But they miss—or dismiss—the perverse

New York City uses about 30 percent less water than it did in 1979, although its population has grown by at least 1 million.

Source: New York City Department of Environmental Protection

More Invisible Water Costs Sample Foods

Average H2O to Produce

Almonds Apple Avocado Beef Black tea Broccoli Cheese Chicken Coffee Corn Granola Mango Oats Pasta Soybeans

259.2 gallons per cup 18.5 gallons to grow 42.6 gallons to grow 1,581 gallons per pound 5.5 gallons per cup 27.4 gallons per pound 414.2 gallons per pound 468.3 gallons per pound 37 gallons per cup 108.1 gallons per pound 65 gallons per cup (varies) 81.9 gallons to grow 122.7 gallons per pound 230.5 gallons per pound 224 gallons per pound

Activities All U.S. golf courses 3.1 billion

gallons a day Occupied hotel room 200 gallons

a day Typical ski resort 800 million liters

per snow season

Clothing Cotton dress shirt 975 gallons Cotton socks 244 gallons Jeans 2,866 gallons each Sneakers 1,247 gallons a pair

Household Goods Book Car Carpet

Computer

Paper Pet bed Pet food

Soap

Television

42.8 gallons 39,000 gallons 14,650 gallons per 1,000 sq. ft. synthetic 10,556 to 42,267 gallons 3 cups per sheet 1,654 gallons (medium) 1,580 gallons per pound of meaty canned food 180.4 gallons per 3.2-ounce bar 3,900 to 65,500 gallons (per make/model/size)

Source: The Green Blue Book, by Thomas M. Kostigen (Rodale Books; TheGreenBlueBook.com) eNaturalAwakenings.com

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protect the CatskillWater managers in 36 states Oregon, is investing Delaware Waterin “green roofs” and expect shortages by 2013. “green streets” to shed, which supplies 90 percent of its prevent sewers from Source: The Wall Street Journal drinking water, in overflowing into the lieu of constructing a $10 billion filtraWillamette River. Chicago now boasts tion plant that would cost an additional more than 200 green roofs—including $300 million a year to operate. Research atop City Hall—that collectively cover published in Natural Resources Forum 2.5 million square feet, more than any further shows that a number of other other U.S. city. The vegetated roofs are U.S. cities—from tiny Auburn, Maine, providing space for urban gardens and to Seattle—have saved hundreds of milhelping to catch storm water and cool the lions of dollars in capital and operating urban environment. Parking lots, too, can costs of filtration plants by instead opting be harnessed. for watershed protection.

Many communities are revitalizing

Communities facing increased their rivers by tearing down dams that flood threats are achieving cost-effecare no longer safe or serving a useful tive protection by restoring rivers. After purpose, thus opening up habitats for enduring 19 floods between 1961 and fisheries, restoring healthier water flows 1997, Napa, California, opted for this and improving aquatic quality. In the approach over the conventional route 10 years since the Edwards Dam was of channeling and building levees. In removed from the Kennebec River, near partnership with the U.S. Army Corps Augusta, Maine, populations of aleof Engineers, a $366 million project is wives and striped bass have returned in reconnecting the Napa River with its astounding numbers, reviving a recrehistoric floodplain, moving homes and ational fishery that adds $65 million businesses out of harm’s way, revitalizannually to the local economy. ing wetlands and marshlands and constructing levees and bypass channels in Watershed Moments strategic locations. Napa residents will Conservation remains the least expenbenefit from increased flood protecsive and most environmentally sound tion and reduced flood insurance rates, way of balancing water budgets. From plus new parks and trails for recreation, Boston to San Antonio to Los Angeles, higher tourism revenues and improved water consumption has decreased via habitats for fish and wildlife. relatively simple measures like repairing

Communities prone to excessive leaks in distribution systems; retrofitstorm water runoff can turn existing struc- ting homes and businesses with watertures into water catchments. Portland, efficient fixtures and appliances; and

PSYCHIC JOAN AVAILABLE FOR HALLOWEEN PARTIES

Due to conservation efforts, per-capita water use has declined an average of 1 percent or more each year between 1990 and 2008 in 100 communities that depend on the Colorado River, but as populations expand, total water drawn from the river during the same period has climbed 5 percent.

Source: Pacific Institute

203-531-6387 PsychicJoanCarra.com 32

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WATER FACTOIDS

Ways to Lighten Your Water Footprint

Humans need five to 13 gallons of clean water a day for basic needs.

Source: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Indoor direct water use for the average American is 69.3 gallons a day. That’s equal to the combined daily use of one person each in China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Paraguay, Afghanistan and Somalia.

Primary Source: Residential End Uses of Water, by Peter Mayer Direct water use for a family of four in the United States is 400 gallons a day.

Thirty percent of that is for outdoor use alone, or 30 gallons per person, the same amount a person uses for all daily needs in Algeria.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Water Sense program A 1 percent increase in organic matter allows soil to hold 16,000 more gallons of water per acre.

Source: National Sustainable Agriculture Project One billion people around the world lack access to safe drinking water.

Source: World Health Organization promoting more sensible and efficient outdoor water use.

But the potential for conservation has barely been tapped. It is especially crucial in agriculture, because irrigation accounts for 70 percent of water use worldwide, and even more in the western United States. Getting more crop per drop is central to meeting future food needs sustainably. California farmers are turning to drip irrigation, which delivers water at low volumes directly to the roots of crops. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture figures, between 2003 and 2008, California’s drip and micro-sprinkler area expanded by 630,000 acres, to a total of 2.3 million acres—62 percent of the nation’s total drip irrigation.

Community-based education and rebates to encourage water-thrifty landscapes can help. Las Vegas, for example, pays residents up to $1.50 for each square foot of grass they rip out, which

has helped shrink the city’s turf area by 125 million square feet and lower its annual water use by 7 billion gallons.

The water crisis requires us to pay attention to how we value and use water. Across the country, it’s essential that communities work to take care of the ecosystems that supply and cleanse water, to live within their water means and to share water equitably.

Sandra Postel is director of the Global Water Policy Project, a fellow of the Post Carbon Institute and a Freshwater Fellow of the National Geographic Society. She adapted this article, based on her chapter, “Water – Adapting to a New Normal,” in The Post Carbon Reader: Managing the 21st Century’s Sustainability Crises, edited by Richard Heinberg and Daniel Lerch, and a piece published in Yes! (YesMagazine.org). For more information, visit GlobalWaterPolicy.org and NationalGeographic.com/freshwater.

Eat less meat. A study published in Agricultural Water Management shows that if all U.S. residents reduced their consumption of animal products by half, the nation’s total dietary water requirement in 2025 would drop by 261 billion cubic meters per year, a savings equal to 14 times the annual flow of the Colorado River.

Ditch bottled water. Per the U.S. Government Accountability Office, putting water in plastic bottles and shipping it just 125 miles uses 1,100 times more energy than producing tap water. The Pacific Institute calculates that it takes three liters of water to produce one liter of bottled water.

Create eco-friendly landscapes.

Statistics published in Environmental Management confirm that turf grass currently covers some 40.5 million acres in the United States—triple the space taken up by any single U.S. irrigated farm crop. Converting thirsty lawns into native, drought-tolerant landscaping significantly drops household water use.

Be water-wise at home. Visit the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s online WaterSense page at tinyurl.com/3wqbz2p to learn simple ways to save water, energy and money.

Calculate personal water use at National Geographic’s tinyurl. com/274jo6v or H2OConserve.org.

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SUSTAINABLE

FAIRFIELD COUNTY:

“Reducing. Reusing. Recycling.”

or huge changes. Rather, it means we consider our production and consumption, how our actions impact the environment, and find ways to mitigate negative effects. Acts of sustainability work to ensure the healthy survival of a community through such efforts as energy efficiency, environmental education/action, waste reduction/recycling, toxic emission reductions, “green” building, sourcing food locally, and more. Regardless of our perspectives on “going green,” our actions impact the environment and vice versa.

Many people in Fairfield County are working to make sustainability more mainstream and achievable for everyone. People from all walks of life are joining together and, as the Native American concept suggests, considering the next seven generations when making decisions for today. Implementing even small changes can have an impact on protecting our natural resources and world. Simple actions such as recycling, avoiding chemicals on lawns/gardens, carrying reusable grocery bags, turning off lights when leaving a room, cleaning with non-toxic products, using public transportation, biking or walking can each make a difference in the health of the environment.

Building sustainable communities ranges from grassroots efforts of one citizen to collaborations with government officials and community groups who care about the issues and can implement policies. All of us are impacted by the choices each individual makes

by Nancy Cohen The most remarkable feature of this historical moment on Earth is not that we are on the way to destroying the world - we’ve actually been on the way for quite a while. It is that we are beginning to wake up, as from a millennia-long sleep, to a whole new relationship to our world, to ourselves and each other. ~ Joanna Macy

T

he recent hurricane Irene prompted discussion among some about how disaster mitigation tools can be more sustainable. For example, hundreds of thousands of us who lost electricity might have had little or no disruption if we’d had technology such as solar energy panels to keep businesses running and food fresh, take showers, cook, or use computers and 34

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tv. Sustainability is one word with a plethora of definitions (an online search produced millions of results) and simply starting a discussion about its meaning can quickly become overwhelming.

It involves fulfilling present and future needs without depleting or damaging natural resources, even renewing them when possible. Sustainability does not always cost more or involve sacrifice

natural awakenings

regarding our resources. What are some ways to act locally?

LOCAL RESOURCES Myriad organizations have opportunities for the public to have fun engaging in environmentally sound practices.

A local beekeepers association (BackyardBeekeepers.com) educates about, and insures the survival of, bees

whose benefits include crop pollination and hive yields used for health products. UCONN’s Master Gardener Program (Ladybug.uconn.edu) offers horticulture training and community outreach classes at Bartlett Arboretum (BartlettArboretum.org). Connecticut’s Garden Trail shares information about landscaping and gardens (CtGardenTrail.com). Organizations such as the Audubon Society (Greenwich.Audubon.org, Ct.Audubon.org/Chapters.html), Sierra Club (Connecticut.SierraClub.org), and Nature Conservancy (Nature.org), have local chapters focused on protecting the environment in this region. The Green Drinks movement (Greendrinks.org) has spread to most towns in Fairfield County and offers an array of social events connecting those who care about planetary well-being. Agencies like Soundkeeper, based in Norwalk (SoundKeeper.org) and Sound Vision (lisoundvision.org), work to protect and restore Long Island Sound. The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (ctlcv.org) is a bipartisan, statewide, nonprofit organization that works with environmental advocacy groups to promote bills affecting our air, water, wildlife, open space, and health. GreenTowns.com, a network that offers a central location for profiles of, and links to, green information and businesses, invites citizens and businesses to join – at no cost. Features include an earth talk column and blogs celebrating community members and actions that are making a difference.

GREEN EVENTS Events enable community connection and offer enjoyable forums for information-sharing about all things sustainable. Annual events include Norwalk’s Live Green Connecticut festival (LiveGreenCt.com), a two-day event “where green meets mainstream” with information about all aspects of sustainable living, and April Earth Day events in most towns dedicated to educating and inspiring citizens about eco-friendly living. Among autumn’s events are:

• the annual Hawk Watch and Green Bazaar (Greenwich.Audubon.org) held this year on October 1-2 at Greenwich Audubon.

• October Ridgefield events (RaceForTheEarth.com) include a Farm to Table Cooking Class, Harvest Festival, and Long Island Sound Citizens’ Summit.

• Green Market Exposition (GreenMarketExposition.org) celebrates sustainable living practices and Bridgeport’s emerging green economy on October 20.

• the Wilton Library’s free Home Energy Savings Workshop on Wednesday October 26 from 7 to 9 p.m.

(WiltonGoGreen.org/eventsprograms).

Discover benefits of home energy efficiency, how to improve comfort and save money (registration required).

• Fairfield County Green Faire (TheGreenFaire.com) is scheduled for Thursday, November 17 at Stamford Marriott Hotel and Spa and includes the Town Green section where residents are invited to share their personal green projects.

BUY LOCAL “Buying local” has become more than just an idea or catch phrase. Purchasing locally-grown food/flora: supports local farmers; reduces costs and environmental stressors that can occur with transport, processing and packaging; and offers fresh food. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s (ct.gov/doag) list of Certified Connecticut Farmers’ Markets includes almost every town in Fairfield County.

According to the Northeast Organic Farming Association’s Connecticut chapter (CT NOFA: ctnofa.org), towns with community supported agriculture (CSA) programs offering shares in a farm’s seasonal crops include Easton, Ridgefield, Westport, and West Red-

ding. Local Harvest (LocalHarvest.org) and The Fairfield Green Food Guide (FairfieldGreenFoodGuide.com) inform about local resources. Two Angry Moms (AngryMoms.org), co-founded

by Connecticut resident Amy Kalafa, is a national movement advocating for healthier school foods.

RECYCLING Single stream recycling is available in multiple communities. This state-ofthe-art system simplifies the recycling process by removing the need for you to sort or bundle items. Paper, plastic containers, cans and glass bottles are mixed together in one bin. This process helps save natural resources, keeps more material out of the waste stream – less litter in landfills, and by using automated trucks reduces collection costs and employee injuries. Solid waste is often the single largest item in a public works budget. Reducing garbage through recycling incurs significant financial savings annually (on tens of thousands of tons of garbage). To find out about recycling efforts in your town, check with individual municipalities (public works pages), or visit Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority (crra.org).

GREEN BUILDING The building industry recognizes the value of including more sustainable materials and practices to reduce negative environmental impacts and create more eco-friendly living and working spaces. The U.S. Green Building Council’s Connecticut chapter (ctgbc.org) educates policy makers, construction industry, building owners, and the financial community about the benefits of “green” buildings.

It works with the U.S. Green Building Council to hold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) training in Connecticut.

The Center for Green Building (MeasureForMeasureHome.com), sells environmentally responsible products for safe, sustainable homes. Fairfield County ReStore (FairfieldCountyReStore.org) accepts donations of building supplies, furniture and appliances to benefit Habitat for Humanity.

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RENEWABLE ENERGY Many programs offer clean energy options and incentives for individuals and municipalities to unite in efforts toward greater sustainability. Clean energy alternatives (e.g.: wind, sun, water, waste-to-energy conversion, biomass conversion, fuel cells) can add jobs, reduce toxic emissions, diminish fossil fuel dependence and enable communities to support environmental (and, therefore, personal and communal) health.

CTCleanEnergyOptions (CtCleanEnergyOptions.com ) is a Department of Public Utilities Control approved program that allows CL&P or UI customers an opportunity to support clean energy made from approved renewable resources.

Enrolled customers continue to receive electric delivery from their utility and pay a clean energy surcharge (a few dollars per month, depending on kilowatts (kW) used). Additionally, towns participating in Connecticut Clean Energy Fund’s (CCEF: CtCleanEnergy.com) Connecticut Clean Energy Communities Program can support clean renewable energy and simultaneously earn free clean energy systems for the town. Each household sign-up counts as one point. Points are pooled so towns can qualify for a free clean energy system on one or more of its buildings (solar photovoltaic, wind, 36

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or solar thermal) from CCEF, who purchases and installs the new system. The clean energy being produced is delivered to the electric system, thereby displacing an equal amount of electricity that would have been generated from traditional sources, such as nuclear energy, coal, or oil. The more people purchase, the greater percent of clean energy everyone gets.

CCEF’s Community Innovation Grants Program (CtCleanEnergy.com) enables local energy task forces to provide micro grants up to $2000 to organizations and citizens motivated to start local projects that support clean energy awareness and education within their communities.

The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF: CtEnergyInfo.com) backs programs that provide education and financial incentives to residents and businesses to help reduce energy consumption. One program offers a Home Energy Solutions (HES) assessment. For a fee (approximately $75-150), a contractor authorized by your utility company visits your home to offer a variety of energy efficiency measures, resulting in a healthier environment and financial savings for residents. They can make on-the-spot improvements, including caulking and sealing of critical air leaks and provide money-saving rebates on appliances, heating and cooling systems and more. Additionally, an income-eligible program (HES-IE–check with utility companies regarding eligibility) offers the same assessment free of charge. In addition to the HES weatherization services, HES-IE households may qualify for insulation and energy-efficient appliances, including Energy Star® refrigerators.

The Connecticut Neighbor to Neighbor Energy Challenge (CtEnergyChallenge.com) is a nonprofit community savings program engaging residents in fourteen towns to reduce their home’s energy use by 20% (by 2013). Fairfield County participants are Ridgefield, Weston, Westport and Wilton. Residents who sign up can take actions to make their household more energy efficient, while also earning points that can be redeemed for community rewards, such as an electric police car or a solar trash compactor. In addition to workshop opportunities, monthly newsletter, energy tips, and an HES assessment ($75), they can also sign up for a lighting retrofit with up to 20 compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) provided and installed free of charge.

The advancement of energy deregulation has enabled increased competition. Among the newer national retail energy suppliers is North American Power (napower.com/118091).

The company’s four-step program “Save. Give. Share. Earn.” aims to: help consumers save the environment through smarter energy choices (customers may choose a 25% or 100% clean energy option); give to nonprofits through its Mission to Millions campaign in which North American Power donates $1 per customer per month to a featured charity of the customer’s choice; encourage social networking about the company’s clean energy options; and promote economic wellbeing by offering compensation for each referral and each referral’s referrals. The company has evolved its innovative business model into a cause-based social network marketing company that strives to “do well by doing good.”

SUSTAINABLE

FAIRFIELD COUNTY: Local Progress

F

airfield County towns are actively involved in sustainability efforts, with government and local citizens collaborating to ensure a safe and thriving Connecticut. Here are a few good examples:

BRIDGEPORT has a history as a bustling center of manufacturing and industry, famed for its milling and sewing machines, carriages, and ammunition. Despite environmental challenges from factory closures, such as contaminated warehouses, it remains a city with a strong entrepreneurial spirit intent on revitalizing in ways that serve as a model of sustainability. Bridgeport offers public education about “going green,” and a city-wide sustainability plan, the comprehensive program B Green 2020 (BGreenBridgeport.org).

This plan supports energy efficiency and production, green jobs training, open space use and maintenance planning, expanding recycling, ensuring access to safe, clean drinking water and healthy coastal resources, encouraging public transit and places for bicycling and walking. It aims to create jobs, save taxpayers and their government money,

reduce wasteful carbon emissions and more. Plan results already include: Bridgeport’s Derektor Shipyards release of the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell hybrid ferry, plans for a mattress recycling factory; a “Greening the OR” collaborative sustainability project among Bridgeport hospitals; installation of edible gardens in Bridgeport schools (30 anticipated by 2012). In addition to single stream recycling, the city has expanded the Recyclebank program which rewards points (redeemable for items like groceries and apparel) to households that recycle responsibly.

Bridgeport recently received a grant from the state’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection funding an Urban Tree Canopy study examining tree health and their benefits to the city’s environment. Businesses like Epernay Bistro (EpernayBistro.com) support sustainability through their use of locally grown food, and Gumdrop Swap, a Bridgeport retail shop and website, offers parents the opportunity to swap their children’s gently worn clothing for “gumdrop” points that can be used to buy clothing in larger

sizes. Bridgeport Community Land Trust works to preserve open space for land conservation, environmental protection and community gardening.

DARIEN’S notable efforts include the local library, a “green” building, which received LEED Gold certification indicating the project is environmentally responsible, profitable, and a healthy place to live and work. Features include a geothermal system for heating and cooling, a bioswale system (incorporating vegetative elements) which captures storm-water runoff, and low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) construction materials. Darien Environmental Group (DarienEnvironmentalGroup.org) involves residents who meet monthly to review existing environmental programs and brainstorm new projects and educational initiatives.

Between FAIRFIELD residents signing up for CCEF’s clean energy program and resident Sharon Pistilli’s community innovation grant (with which she purchased Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) to give to anyone who signed up for clean energy), Fairfield earned enough photovoltaic panels to place on the town’s middle schools.

In an arrangement with Community Energy (one of two companies supplying renewable energy through CCEF’s program), the town’s clean energy task force gets a rebate for every sign-up.

The town’s public works department is focused on conservation energy management and takes a holistic approach suggesting an action should be better for the environment, involve good engineering and sound technology, save taxpayers money, be better for public health and clean air/water, and make the person selling the technology a profit. It upgraded the sewage plant “HVAC” system, added new boilers and micro turbines which reduce pollutants and gas emissions, composts instead of burning or burying waste treatment (one use: fertilizer for local ball fields), recycles wood chips and uses waste heat to help heat the building.

The sewage treatment plant has photovoltaic panels on the roof. A town biofuel directive ensures all emissions from the plant are piped to a biofilter wood chips system which eats pollution. Carbon and nitrates are absorbed

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Spiritual Life Coaching Retreats • Workshops Sacred Circles • Rites of Passage

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Grilled Chicken with Fresh Herbs (serves 6)

This same method works well with bite-size chunks of boneless, skinless chicken threaded onto skewers for grilling; simply brush the kabobs with the lemon juice mixture after grilling.

3 whole chicken legs (thighs and legs attached) 3 bone-in chicken breasts 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional) 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives 1 tablespoon finely chopped oregano or marjoram 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary 1 tablespoon finely chopped thyme • Preheat a grill to medium heat.

Put chicken into a large bowl, add oil, salt and pepper and toss to coat. Arrange chicken on grill grates and cook, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown and cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes.

• While still hot, toss chicken in a large bowl with lemon juice, mustard, chives, oregano, rosemary and thyme. Transfer to a platter and serve.• Stir to combine, then serve.

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into wood chips. Non-recycled garbage is burned at a plant in Bridgeport and used to generate electricity. Yard waste is recycled into reusable products such as wood chips, soil amendments, fertilizer, and mulch and sold locally. Fairfield has its own natural gas fueling stations and vehicles, and two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations (Sherman Green and the train station). The town received an EPA grant to outfit school buses with filters to process diesel emission. Taking out sulfur and particulate matter helps diminish respiratory illnesses of children and others exposed to emissions.

Sustainable Fairfield (Groups.Google.com/Group/Sustainable-Fairfield) facilitates communication regarding green initiatives and events among Fairfield’s various environmental groups and residents. Fairfield Clean Energy Task Force promotes clean energy sign-ups and works with the town to meet clean energy goals. Fairfield Bike Walk Coalition promotes a bike and pedestrian-friendly city. There is a Fairfield Organic Teaching Farm (FairfieldOrganicTeachingFarm.org).

The annual Fairfield Earth Day Celebration is one of the largest among Earth Day events in the county. The town’s Forestry Committee (Fairfieldct.org/forestry.htm) advocates tree stewardship and offers a commemorative tree-planting program.

GREENWICH is the site of green-certified restaurant, BoxCar Cantina (BoxcarCantina.com) and home to businesses such as Granoff Architects (GranoffArchitects.com), a company which incorporates sustainable strategies into its projects. Audubon Greenwich (Greenwich.Audubon.org) engages and educates people to conserve, restore, and enjoy nature. It offers a lecture series, films and panel discussions to raise awareness about eco-friendly topics. Its organic lawn initiatives aim to diminish dangers from pesticides (e.g.: attention deficit disorder). Greenwich Point Conservancy (GreenwichPoint.org) is an organization working to restore and preserve Greenwich Point for the enjoyment of current and future generations. Go Greener Greenwich (Greenwichct.org/Go_Greener) was established as a followup to the Environmental Action Task Force to increase community participation in practices that protect human, environmental, and fiscal health. Green Drinks gatherings include this month’s “Eating Clean...A Celebration of Healthy and Sustainable Food and Wine with Terry Walters.” Armstrong Court Community Organic Garden (ArmstrongCourtCommunityGarden.org) was founded by a group of community members dedicated to organic gardening and sustainable living.

Since 2008, NORWALK has been a member of the EPA’s Community Energy Challenge. Connecticut’s first EV charging stations were installed in Norwalk. Its city hall received an Energy Star® rating due to efforts to conserve resources. The Norwalk Tree Alliance (NorwalkTreeAlliance.org) Urban Forest Improvement project earned a U.S. Conference of Mayors Award of Excellence. Norwalk participates in the Department of Housing and Urban Development Sustainable Communities Initiative, which seeks to: develop livable communities and growth centers around the region’s transit network; foster new, affordable, energy-efficient housing; provide more transportation choices; and, make the region more globally competi-

tive. Norwalk approved several redevelopment projects designed to advance an urban environment centered on mass transportation, uniting homes and businesses in space linked by pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods convenient to inter-modal transportation hubs. Pedestrian and bicycle friendly access has been increased along the Norwalk River and construction has begun on the Bikeway connecting the town and Danbury. Norwalk has worked to become a leader in environmental programs designed to filter and limit ground water runoff contamination of streams and Long Island Sound and undertaken a project to reconstruct its sewage treatment facilities in a manner that assures a pristine relationship between the plant and its surroundings. The Norwalk Seaport Association (Seaport.org) has a history of protecting the Sound. Community garden projects at historic Fodor Farm have been wellrecognized. Connecticut’s first retro-fit office LEED Certification was bestowed on one of the Merritt 7 office towers and Stepping Stones for Children Museum received LEED Silver certification for its new addition. All redevelopment projects are reviewed for developers’ adherence to guidelines encouraging energy efficiency and environmental principles. Norwalk’s Mayor and Director of Business Development even drive hybrids…

RIDGEFIELD Action Committee for the Environment (RACE: RaceForTheEarth.com) is comprised of volunteers and open to residents wanting to help the community “step boldly, tread lightly.” Serving in an advisory capacity to Ridgefield’s First Selectman, its mission is to raise awareness, educate and bring about action for the responsible use of energy, conservation of natural resources, and reduction of waste. Ridgefield is also: a participant in The Neighbor to Neighbor Energy Challenge; home to the Hickories (TheHickories.org) certified organic farm; one of several towns (Greenwich, New Canaan, Wilton) collaborating to offer a drop box for easy disposal of unwanted medications at the local police headquarters; and, offering single stream recycling. Through the CTCleanEnergyOptions program,

Ridgefield now has a 15-kW photovoltaic solar system on the recreation center’s roof.

STAMFORD has been involved in a number of sustainability initiatives, including the mayor’s Sustainable Stamford task force (SustainableStamford.org), energy efficiency programs, green roof initiatives, the Mill River Greenbelt (MillRiver.info), and legislation on municipal green buildings. A 2010 comprehensive sustainability amendment was made to the city’s 2002 Master Plan, which includes transit-oriented development, improvements to Stamford Transportation Center, conserving park land, expanding recycling, and promoting interdisciplinary, coordinated action among the public, private and non-profit sectors and other municipalities. The city’s Urban Transitway Project (ci.stamford.ct.us), now under construction, encourages public and non-motorized transportation modes to address current and future traffic needs. Stamford has a dedicated “Energy/Utility Manager,” responsible for energy, fuel

efficiency, and emissions reductions. It is a participant in the Cities for Climate Protection Program, an initiative of an organization known as ICLEI (iclei.org). Under that program, Stamford developed a Local Action Plan to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2018 (compared to 1998 baseline numbers), which has resulted in energy performance contracts, lighting retrofits in schools, solar energy systems on several municipal buildings, LED traffic lights, and street light retrofits. Sustainable Stamford and Southern Connecticut Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA: soctboma.org) created the “Corporate Sustainability Challenge” for participating corporate building owners and managers to benchmark their energy and water usages and adopt sustainability policies on items such as carpooling/telecommuting, non-smoking, waste reduction, lighting, purchasing, stormwater quality management, and “green” cleaning. To date, Stamford has 14 completed LEED projects. The city’s

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

FAIRFIELD COUNTY EDITION

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Land Use Bureau recently created a “scorecard” for projects requiring site plan review, which will be used to evaluate future transit-oriented development and green building projects/policies. The Green Initiative For Vegetables In Education (GIVE: InTheGardenWithGive.blogspot.com) establishes vegetable gardens in local schools, with seventeen already in place.

WESTPORT has been a leader in single stream recycling.

It is also the base for one of the more active group proponents of sustainability in Fairfield County, Green Village Initiative (GVI: gogvi.org). GVI’s creation was inspired by the Westport Plastic Bag Ban (the first town in the state to ban plastic shopping bags) and the desire to be a regional leader in how to live more intentionally in these complex times. The group’s goal is sustainability and community-building with focus on local food, water, power, garbage, and education.

GVI partners with area nonprofits, such as towns, schools, nature centers, senior centers, state parks, arts centers, and PTAs. It recently formed the Connecticut Local Action Guild, which has meetings, conferences and a network/database to bring together the state’s most dynamic local action-focused citizens and enable larger scale social change, stronger organizations, joint projects and legislative action. GVI offers films and lectures and has convened leaders from area water protection groups to undertake local watershed improvement projects. One coordinated effort involves the DEP, Westport and Norwalk Conservation Departments, and homeowners on Nash’s Pond and Stony Brook modeling and executing best practices for cleaning up waterways. GVI created a town farm in Westport. It has helped put edible school gardens in several county towns, including Ridgefield and Bridgeport.

Its goal is a garden at every school so children can connect with nature, learn to grow their own food and get excited about eating healthfully. Public schools are invited to contact GVI for funding and/or expertise regarding garden building and maintenance. The Westport Library has obtained recycling bins for the building. Westport recently unveiled an EV charging station and became the first in the nation to offer drivers a pay-by-phone option.

WILTON Energy Commission (WiltonEnergy.org) is an all-volunteer appointed commission which serves in an advisory role supporting the Board of Selectmen on matters of sustainability, energy efficiency and clean energy. The city has been designated a CCEF clean energy community, through which it has committed to purchasing 30% of electrical energy for municipal and school buildings from renewable sources by 2015. With this program, Wilton has earned solar installation grants of $45k. For every 100 sign-ups with CL&P’s clean 40

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energy options program the town earns 1kW solar array from the CCEF. Twenty kW of solar array were installed at the high school from this collective effort. The town is also a participant in the Neighbor to Neighbor program. Wilton Go Green (WiltonGoGreen.org) is a group of citizens that engages the community in initiatives which advance a culture of conservation, educating about best practices in building, energy, food, transportation, waste/recycling, and natural resources.

Among its initiatives is an effort for Wilton citizens to voluntarily diminish use of one-time plastic and paper bags at retail outlets through an educational campaign and distribution of over 12,000 reusable bags (designed locally through a contest). Wilton Go Green hosted the second annual Go Green Festival this past May featuring exhibitors and information on topics from electric cars to sustainable products and practices.

It has also become involved with 350.org, a global movement to solve the climate crisis, with “Moving Planet-Ride for the Trail,” a bicycling/hiking event supporting the Norwalk River Valley Trail and green transportation. The first Wilton Green Fair was underwritten by a CCEF Community Innovation Grant. Sustainable gardens have been created at the Wilton library and high school, with the latter’s produce given to local households and/or used in the cafeteria.

When asked for ways Natural Awakenings readers can make a difference, community leaders suggested supporting any of the programs/initiatives that resonate, whatever your abilities and interests. Support can come in many forms, including: active involvement (paid or volunteer); making a donation; spreading the word; and, simply being more sustainable in your own life. Recycle more. Grow a garden.

Purchase locally made/grown items. Support bike lanes and walking routes. Sign-up for clean energy and help your town earn free solar panels, or, as with North American Power, earn extra income simply by sharing your passion for clean energy with others. Have a home energy assessment. Ensure your voice is heard when decisions are being made concerning sustainability. Reduce consumption. Everyone can help.

And we’re all on this earth together.

One of the most hopeful things about working on an article like this is discovering how many people are uniting to launch or maintain programs that keep us healthy at present and ensure a vibrant future. Within the confines of one article it is impossible to mention all of the endeavors of local municipalities and citizens. This is just the proverbial iceberg tip with initial ideas to inspire individual and collective stewardship of our natural resources to benefit ourselves, each other, and our world. A special note of gratitude to citizens, community leaders, municipal staff members, and government leaders who took the time to call, email, convey messages, and contribute to this article with thoughts, facts, opinions, and a passion that is unmistakable, particularly Julie Belaga, Jana Bertkau, Ed Boman, Misty Beyer, Jen Carpenter, Remy Chevalier, Jeff Cordulack, Andre Dery, Janak Desai,Tad Diesel, Monique Dinor, Daphne Dixon, Steve Edwards, Erin Halsey, Bruce Hampson, Larry Kaley, Wendy Leonetti, Dan Levinson, Molly McGeehin, Erin McKenna, Pam Sloane, Michael Tetreau, Bob Wall, and Stephanie Weiner.

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Fibromyalgia Secrets Doctors Are Not Telling You

by Dr. Scott Bender

S

ome call it the “invisible disease.” Medical opinions are as varied as the symptoms themselves. Doctors are baffled by it. Some don’t even acknowledge that such a condition really exists, while others shamelessly write it off as a “psychological” disorder.

It’s Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is different from other conditions. Years of suffering pain, fatigue and depression can strip a patient of the will to fight Fibromyalgia. To many, it is a mysterious, recently discovered condition too often treated with antidepressants, pain and sleeping pills, and medication designed for suppressing seizures and convulsions. Fibromyalgia is too often “treated” by prescribing Lyrica, Savella or Cymbalta, but will the patient be any healthier? Will the causes of the terrible symptoms be addressed?

IS IT REALLY SO MYSTERIOUS? Could it be that many different symptoms caused by many different causes are being lumped together under the banner of Fibromyalgia? No single cause of Fibromyalgia has been agreed upon by medical research scientists anywhere in the world.

Like many doctors, I disagree with the guidelines used for arriving at the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. The American College of Rheumatology’s definition is based on symptoms of “widespread pain” throughout the body and “pain in 11 of 18 tender point sites.” In my opinion, these simplistic criteria are weak at best, leading to tremendous over-diagnosis and misdiagnosis. Further testimony to this is the fact that there is not a single scientifically proven diagnostic test for Fibromyalgia.

Yet the diagnosis is still given with reckless abandon—along with liberally flowing prescriptions for the latest drug the FDA approves.

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START BY QUESTIONING THE WORD The word “Fibromyalgia” is itself highly questionable. Its Latin and Greek roots come from “fibro,” meaning fibrous, “myo,” meaning muscle, and “algia,” which means pain. Put together, it means pain of the fibrous and muscle tissues. Of course this is a pitifully inaccurate description, considering the wide variety of symptoms beyond mere “fibrous muscle pain.” Those who suffer from such symptoms as chronic fatigue, intolerance to exercise, sleep disorders, headaches, depression, anxiety, skin problems, weather sensitivity, numbness or tingling, restless legs, digestive problems, and so on, clearly have much more than a mere muscle problem!

In treating people—that is people, not the disease—I’ve found no two Fibromyalgia patients whose symptoms have the same causes. Sometimes the causes are radically different, which is why it’s important to take the time to investigate. I prefer an integrative medical approach in my practice, utilizing various modalities that are considered “complementary and alternative.” It’s worth re-evaluating those terms for a moment, along with the common use of the term “conventional” to describe treatment and testing. Conventional means only that it’s accepted by the mainstream, that it’s popular, not that it’s in any way superior. Similarly, let’s re-consider “complementary and alternative.” Complementary and alternative to what? To ineffective treatment? And when conventional treatment calls for trying another drug, couldn’t that be considered using an alternative?

We should ensure that these common terms do not lessen the effectiveness of the theories and methods I’m about to describe.

FIRST HIDDEN CAUSE OF FIBROMYALGIA I have found there are many possible causes for what is commonly diagnosed as Fibromyalgia... and they must all be considered, with each patient evaluated thoroughly and according to their individual needs. One of the possible causes discovered by a growing number of enlightened physicians and researchers is structural upper neck imbalances. The greatest concentration

of nerve connections in the human body is at the upper neck.

Misalignment of the bones (Atlas and Axis vertebra) can result in nerve compression, which can affect the entire nervous system, and therefore, the whole body.

Various research has focused attention on the neurological conditions involving such compression of the brain stem or upper portion of the spinal cord, with the University of Kansas School of Medicine and Arthritis Research Center studying the relationship between neck injury and Fibromyalgia. The conclusion of this study of 161 cases revealed that Fibromyalgia occurred 13 times more frequently following neck injury, compared to injury to other areas of the body.

This condition’s official name is Upper Cervical Stenosis (UCS). Though it is a subtle condition, and therefore too rarely considered or diagnosed, this nearly imperceptible narrowing of the spinal canal can literally choke the spinal cord area. It may be present as early as childhood, but various painful symptoms may take years, or even decades to develop before nerve compression becomes severe, through age-related spinal degeneration or spinal trauma.

Many of my fellow upper neck specialists also report the vast majority of their Fibromyalgia patients as having had histories of neck injury as many as 20 years prior to the onset of their symptoms. A good number of my patients, diagnosed with Fibromyalgia by other physicians, had no problems prior to their neck injuries. Yet, because they did not recover from their injuries in a timely manner, and developed more symptoms without ever receiving effective treatment, they were told that “Fibromyalgia” was the cause of their suffering.

Both upper neck problems and chronic Lyme disease must be considered when evaluating and treating people diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Of course, treatments vary according to the findings. My most commonly used approaches include: Atlas Orthogonal, Complex Homeopathy and Ear Acupuncture (Auricular Therapy). I also recommend that patients familiarize themselves with Bio-energetic Testing, which has enabled me to help many people by detecting problems that conventional medical testing cannot determine, as well as predicting the most effective treatments.

Most people who’ve consulted with me have been in pain on average 10 years, and have spent a small fortune in medical care—with terrible results. It’s through them that I have come to understand how hard it is to keep trying, when giving up actually seems easier.

I’ve been privileged to successfully treat some of the most “hopeless” cases you can imagine, encouraged by the ingenious research that has uncovered the two hidden causes I’ve mentioned, along with effective treatments for Fibromyalgia that so many have yet to discover. As my patients and I have discovered together, there is indeed hope on the horizon for Fibromyalgia’s many sufferers.

Dr. Scott Bender, DC has successfully treated hundreds of patients with Fibromayalgia and severe chronic pain.

He is the director of Connecticut Spine and Health Center in Stamford, located at 111 High Ridge Road. For more information contact his office at 203.967.8888 or visit ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com. See ad pg 63.

THE NON-INVASIVE TREATMENT I am certain, then, that the UCS neck imbalance is the most common and significant possible cause of Fibromyalgia to consider, along with chemical and other factors. The good news is that UCS can be treated non-surgically, with the Atlas Orthogonal procedure (AO), performed with a sound wave instrument, a procedure that is able to detect and treat miniscule physical imbalances between the skull and upper neck vertebrae. AO is a safe, painless, and non-invasive method that reduces the “choking” effect on the spinal cord. This reduces the stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal, which in turn, reduces the pressure on the spinal cord/brain stem region, the meninges, as well as blood vessels, to restore normal function.

SECOND POSSIBLE HIDDEN CAUSE I have also helped many people diagnosed with Fibromyalgia—and “treated” with every drug on the market—who were actually suffering from chronic Lyme disease all along.

I have no doubt that there are millions of such people. It’s well known that Lyme disease blood tests frequently come up falsely negative—and the patient may not recall ever being bitten by a tick— but this tremendously underdiagnosed, complex condition, triggered by a bacteria, may actually be one of the causes of Fibromyalgia. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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A Spiritual Boutique

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Fairfield County Edition

Making the Most of Botanical Medicine

by Dr. Tom Worden, DC

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erbs— extremely safe, effective and gentle when used in traditional remedies— are being increasingly and successfully used for common physical, mental and spiritual healing, as they have been for millennia. Herbal treatments range from the simple, such as drinking chamomile tea to relax a nervous stomach, to a tinctured mixture of hawthorn, cayenne pepper, wild oats, garlic and gingko biloba used as a heart tonic. Herbs can be used as spices in culinary dishes, both dried and fresh in teas, and in concentrated water/alcohol tinctures meant for further dilution with water.

amount if fresh added to boiled water.

Gentian can also be taken in the form of Angostura Bitters added to seltzer as a digestive stimulant.

THE MANY HERBAL VARIATIONS Among the fresh herbs used for digestive dysfunction are peppermint, chamomile, ginger, gentian root and licorice.

When dried, use the amount contained in one tea bag per cup, or twice the

Stimulating herbs are ginger, licorice, ginseng, both Siberian and American, green tea and astragalus. These adaptogenic herbs help your body deal with stress as well as stimulate circulation and energy. Avoid taking at night and

natural awakenings

Time-honored relaxing herbs include valerian, hops, passionflower, skullcap, kava kava, mugwort, lemon balm and chamomile. These can be used safely during the day, as well as before going to sleep, in order to wind down without a hangover in morning. Freeze-dried formulas that include many of these herbs are available commercially and are used successfully in our clinic to produce relaxation and stress relief.

check with your physician if you are on blood pressure medication.

Immune-boosting herbs include the famous Echinacea root, goldenseal, which is especially good for sinus infections, elderberry, garlic, andrographis and St. John’s Wort. We advise patients with acute infections to load up initially, tripling the suggested daily dose.

Check with your health care practitioner before using even over-the-counter herbs, if you have autoimmune disease or are on immune-suppressant drugs.

speed of recovery from illness.

used for prostate issues and gingko biloba to enhance circulation. Female uses for herbs for perimenopause and menopause include Chaste tree berry (hormone balancer), black cohosh, red clover, squaw vine, St. John’s Wort and dong quai (angelica sinesis or “female ginseng”). Raspberry leaf tea is superior for childbirth and strengthening uterine contractions.

Anti-inflammatory herbs include white willow bark (original source of derived aspirin), St. Johns Wort, aloe vera juice, licorice, turmeric, cayenne and curry leaf. Poultices or herbs used wet and topically applied include arnica, St. John’s Wort, burdock, comfrey and Mood altering herbs include St. Johns lavender. Use these moistened herbs Wort for mild to moderate depression mixed with oatmeal or flour (1: 10 herb and the previously mentioned relaxto flour ratio) to make a paste that is ation herbs, passionflower and valerian applied to skin, covered with a moist for anxiety. hot cloth for relieving pain and spasms.

Stronger herbs, such as mustard and Most other symptoms can be relieved cayenne, are applied as a paste through and recovery from many conditions cloths so as to not touch the skin. aided with proper herbal usage as well.

Herbs are available for both men’s and These include bowel and bladder dyswomen’s complaints, including vitalfunction, respiratory, cardiac, arthritic, ity, cancer prevention, and hormone circulatory, cerebral aging and memory support. Male libido and vitality can loss. At our clinic we employ herbs, be enhanced with epimedium (aka alone or in conjunction with medicahorny goat weed), tribulis and ginseng; tions, supplements of vitamins and HVWS Playgroup_NATURAL PM K_CT and par 2007 9/15/11 12:28 Page 1 saw palmetto and stingingAWAKENINGS_HVS nettles are minerals homeopathics to AM maximize

Herbs can be a vital part of your personal health program. Educate yourself to become empowered to use these gifts that have been provided to us by nature. Many herbal references can be found in books and on the Internet, including our website, WordenChiropractic.Meta-ehealth.com.

Many qualified practitioners are available, some can be found in Natural Awakenings, who are qualified to prescribe botanical medicine, many of whom can teach us how to naturally treat ourselves. Remember, many drugs were once isolated and derived from modifications of herbal components, and many herbs have been researched extensively, having been used successfully for centuries. Modern herbalists will caution you about any contraindication in their use.

Questions can be directed to Dr. Worden at WordenWellnessCenter@yahoo.com, though specific recommendations cannot be made without a personal evaluation. Worden Wellness Center has been serving the greater Danbury area for over 25 years. The Center is located at 41 Kenosia Avenue (near the mall). To schedule an appointment call 203.748.8093 or for more information visit WordenChiropractic.

Meta-ehealth.com. See ad pg 27.

PARENT TODDLER CLASSES Thurs or Fri mornings: 9am to 11am PERFECT FOR 1 TO 3 YEAR OLDS You and your child will experience a Waldorf early childhood atmosphere and community– a place where children play together and parents support one another.

Please call 203.364.1113 to register

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“I want you to know the power, the liberation of another kind of science, the inner science the yogic science in which you can become the master of your destiny.” ~ Sadhguru

World-renowned Contemporary Yogi Offers Online Course and Appearance in New Jersey

S

adhguru Jaggi Vasudev, a yogi and profound mystic, is a visionary humanitarian and prominent spiritual leader. A contemporary teacher rooted as strongly in mundane and pragmatic matters as he is in inner experience and wisdom, Sadhguru works toward the physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing of all.

At home in loincloth as much as he is in blue jeans, barefoot through the Himalayas, or straddling a BMW motorcycle on the expressway, playing Frisbee, driving a race car and playing golf, Sadhguru often appears to be a most unusual mystic. Belonging to no particular tradition, Sadhguru incorporates and presents information from the yogic science that is valid for contemporary life.

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Sadhguru’s scientific methods for selftransformation are now included in his Inner Engineering program online. The program is derived from the ancient science of yoga and is intended to benefit the student with self-empowerment, personal growth, and the possibility of living life to the fullest potential. The Inner Engineering program provides simple, easy to use, reliable methods, which typically provide immediate results in reducing or eliminating stress, creating joy, improving health, and bringing success to the user. The program has seven proven methods and guided meditations from the distilled essence of yoga that have benefitted users for more than 25 years.

According to Sadhguru, the program helps people maintain high energy

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throughout the day, find relief from chronic ailments, eliminate stress/fear/ anxiety, and generate inner peace. In addition, Sadhguru provides the following results from studies done before and after Inner Engineering: 80% of participants reported improved mental clarity, 87% felt greater emotional balance, and 79% had higher levels of energy.

The Inner Engineering course consists of seven online classes with Sadhguru, at the student’s own pace. For those who have completed the online course, an event led by Sadhguru will be held in New Jersey on November 5-6.

Sadhguru is world-renowned in many areas. He has served as a delegate to the United Nations Millennium Peace Summit and the World Peace Con-

gress. In 2007, he participated in four panels at the World Economic Forum and spoke on issues from diplomacy and economic development, to education and the environment. In 2006, he addressed the World Economic Forum, the Tallberg Forum in Sweden, and the Australian Leadership Retreat. He was named one of India’s 50 most influential people, and for initiating the planting of 8.2 million trees in Tamilnadu, India, he appears in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Sadhguru’s vision and understanding of modern social and economic issues has led to interviews with the BBC, Bloomberg, CNBC, CNNfn, and Newsweek International. He is regularly featured in India’s national newspapers and National Geographic. He is the author of more than 50 books and the subject of four. He directs outreach programs for life-term prisoners, impoverished children, and others through his nonprofit, non-religious Isha Foundation.

It’s no wonder then that his public talks and group meditations regularly draw crowds of more than 300,000 people.

To learn more about Sadhguru, see Ishafoundation.org. To register for the November 5-6 appearance by Sadhguru in New Jersey, contact Nishanto Kane at 860.577.2109. Use code 96005002 to receive a $15 discount when registering. See ad pg 29.

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Ecotherapy: Feeling Finally at Home in Our Home World

by Craig Chalquist, PhD

What would happen if we moved the therapist’s office outside?

Even better, what would happen if we invited Earth to be our therapist?

“E

cotherapy” was coined by pastoral counselor and Civil Rights activist Howard Clinebell in 1996 to describe healing through conscious reconnection with the natural world. Since then, ecotherapy has come to include interactions with animals, gardening therapy, recreational therapy, wilderness excursion work, various forms of “green” exercise, and a number of other “healing as though the Earth mattered” practices. Many of these are discussed in the anthology Ecotherapy: Healing with Nature in Mind (Sierra Club Books, 2009).

Of course, there have always been purported “nature cures”, with thousands of us visiting forests, beaches and national parks in search of such cures. But most of this activity flows in only one direction: from nature to the recipients of its benefits and beauty. If it is true that creativity is necessary for all true healing, then a one-way process that remains at the level of mere entertainment has more in common with tired old patterns of exploitation than with healing.

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TRANSFORMATION, NOT JUST ENTERTAINMENT Ecotherapy seeks a deeper transformation, changing spectators and exploiters of nature into its friends and advocates.

For the ecotherapy practitioner, plants, animals, rivers, and landscapes are never mere tools or backdrops: they are active, creative partners who should benefit from what they give us. Gardens should flourish, soils regenerate, dogs and dolphins should enjoy their work with us and receive our protection and respect in return.

Ecotherapy is not psychotherapy, neither does it replace psychiatry, but it challenges both modalities to reconceptualize their view of human nature. We cannot expect to feel really well while living in ailing cities or toxic lands. For us to be sane and whole, our healing process must support the healing of the planet, and vice versa.

Some implications for a new kind of environmental partnership with the natural world surfaced last year at the Bioneers conference in San Rafael, California. During a

panel discussion I was asked what ecotherapy might offer those who work to protect and restore the environment. My reply included the following suggestions: THE END OF SHAME AND GUILT I suggested that we put to rest the popular practice of shaming and blaming our audiences for not caring enough about the planet. Quite a few of us grew up being told in negative, guilt-inflaming terms that we must be “saved.” Using the same tone to tell others how to save the planet only results in a tuned-out audience.

People cannot handle bad news about global warming or mass extinction without a supportive container for making sense of these grim tidings and for creating and testing new courses of action. Ecotherapists do small-group work with this in mind. Connecting these groups would widen the container of support - and expand the laboratory of cultural transformation.

People will not protect what they do not love. Ecotherapy shows people how to get back in direct touch with the cycles of nature, the sensibility and feel of growing things, the increasingly obvious intelligence of animals, which has been reinforced by recent interspecies communication research. Our work helps us to see that we are not alone here, that other beings matter, that the landscapes that do so much for us need our attention. We advocate without necessarily being traditionally political, since Earth as an all-creative entity knows no political parties, recognizing only people trying to live happily here.

For me, ecotherapy begins to answer a question I so often ask my graduate students:

“What will it take for us to finally feel at home in our home world?”

Bethany, CT, is pleased to announce a new Certificate Program in Ecotherapy and Cultural Sustainability. To learn more, call 203.874.4252 or visit Learn.edu/events to find an upcoming information session.

Craig Chalquist, Ph.D., is a core faculty member of EastWest Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies and adjunct faculty at John F. Kennedy University, where he designed and launched the world’s first ecotherapy certificate. He also serves as Academic Director for The Graduate Institute’s new Certificate Program in Ecotherapy and Cultural Sustainability. An editorial board member of the journal Ecopsychology, he holds a PhD in depth psychology, an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Master Gardener certificate, and a Permaculture Design certificate. Visit his website at Chalquist.com. For more about ecotherapy, visit Ecotherapyheals.com. See ad pg 19.

“Equine Therapy Helps Withdrawn Vets Reconnect” - TheDenverChannel.com/news/21591463/detail.html

“71% Report Depression Decrease After Green Walk” Mind.org.uk/News/1795_Go_Green_To_Beat_The_Blues

“Immersion in Nature Makes Us Nicer” - miller-mccune. com/news/immersion-in-nature-makes-us-nicer-1430.print “How the City Hurts Your Brain...and What You Can Do About It” - Boston.com/BostonGlobe/Ideas/ Articles/2009/01/04/How_The_City_Hurts_Your_Brain/

“Connection to Nature Vital to Our Mental and Physical Health, Scientists Say” - msnbc.msn.com/id/30192793/ns/ health-mental_health/

“Drug Addiction: Environmental Conditions Play Major Role In Effective Treatment And Preventing Relapses, Animal Study Shows” ScienceDaily.com/Releases/2008/11/081114190439.htm

The Graduate Institute, located at 171 Amity Road in

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

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 Passion & Purpose Part I - Foundations 9am11am. Also Part II 10/8 @ 9-11am. Women’s Empowerment Journey. Learn empowerment techniques, tap one’s personal power, unlock blocks, embrace new possibilities. Through selfdiscovery, visualization, yoga, and more! $60/2.

TLC. Norwalk. 914.393.9221.

HawkWatch Weekend Festival & Green Bazaar 11am-5pm Also held Sunday. Kids activities, great food, eco-friendly businesses, and the famous live birds of prey shows presented by Talons: A Bird of Prey Experience. Jeff Cordulack: 203.869.5272 x239.

Harvest Fair 2-5pm. Craft making, face painting, and more! Puppet show at 3:30 pm. Homemade lunch items and sweets for an extra charge.

Adults/$10. Children/Free. Rain or Shine. The Clover Hill School. RSVP: 203.661.6484.

Process Art & Kundalini 2:30-5:30pm. Explore the power of painting which lies in the creative process not the finished product. The painting process deepens one’s connection with Self. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

AWAKEN FAIR November 19 Doubletree Hotel • Tarrytown, NY 10591 Our 10th Anniversary Year!

The BIGGEST Body-Mind-Spirit-Green Fair north of NYC! www.AwakenFair.com Sponsors, Exhibitors, Speakers: www.ThePractitioners.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FIBROMAYGIA & CHRONIC PAIN LECTURE Wednesday, 10/5 or 10/19 • 7pm Lecture presented by Dr. Scott Bender, about a highly effective treatment – a gentle, drug-free, and natural approach called Atlas Orthogonal which has helped thousands of patients regain their health.

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford RSVP: 203.967.8888. Limited seating.

ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2 “Post-Awakenings” Celebration 2-5:30pm.

Presented by Natural Awakenings, hosted by Vistar Foundation. Meet our local holistic practitioners!

“Spirituality and Healing: a Physician’s Perspective” presented by Dr. Ron Friedman, cofounder of Vistar Foundation and Dr. Joel Evans, national expert in Mind/Body medicine. Includes participation in a Vistar Evolutionary Circle to raise the vibration of Fairfield County. Stamford.

Free for the first 50 people to RSVP: 203.858.9502.

Wildman Steve Brill Wild Food and Ecology Walk 2:30-4:30pm. A talk and tour to find, identify & gather autumn edibles. Bring a trowel and a paper bag. $25/adult, $10/child under 12.

Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. 203.270.8820.

Withinsight’s Autumn Bonfire 6:30-9:30pm. A women’s gathering to celebrate abundance and release what is finished from the season. Meet members of Withinsight’s spiritual community.

Free. Withinsight Temple Home. Monroe. RSVP Lisa: 203.445.0117.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 3 Conscious Conception Series 7:30pm.

Prepare body, mind and spirit for a healthy

journey to conception. Practitioners share integrative approaches of acupuncture, nutrition, yoga, relaxation, core energetics to support preconception health. $40 or 8/$240. TLC Norwalk. 914.393.9221.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4 Information Session on: Groundbreaking Masters Degree Programs 5:30 pm. Free. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. RSVP: 203.874.4252.

Free Documentary & Popcorn: The Mighty Uke 7-8:30pm. Learn all about this fun instrument and what is fueling a world wide ukulele renaissance!

Feel free to bring a uke. Sticks and Stones Farm.

Newtown. RSVP: 203.270.8820.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 Fibromayalgia & Chronic Pain Lecture 7pm.

Presented by Dr. Scott Bender, about a highly effective treatment – a gentle, drug-free, natural approach called Atlas Orthogonal which has helped thousands regain their health. Free. 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. RSVP: 203.967.8888.

Achieve Your Most Vibrant, Resilient Self with the 5 Benefits of Chiropractic Care 7-9pm w/ Dr. Mara S. Tabares. Questions and Answers on the uses of chiropractic care. Free. Move2wellness.

635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 Continental Efforts for Bird Conservation: Endemics, Quetzals, and a Land of Biodiversity 6pm: Wine and Cheese Reception. 7pm: Presentation. Continental bird banding provides critical information for bird conservation.

Members free/$5 Non-Members. Birdcraft Museum. Fairfield. 203-259-6305 ext.109.

Documentary Screening: Fat Sick and Nearly Dead 6:30-8:45pm. Follow Joe’s journey to health from 100 pounds overweight, on steroids and suffering from an autoimmune disease. $5. Hosted

by Catch a Healthy Habit @ Community Film Institute. Bridgeport. 203.292.8190.

Ukulele Club 7-8:30 Uncle Zak the Uke Guy will be facilitating. Come prepared to have fun jamming, singing and making music. Uke not necessary, tell Annie when registering. Donation.

Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. 203.270.8820.

Unity Center

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

Our Ongoing Events A Course in Miracles, Tue at 7 pm The Bars Process, 1st Thu at 7 pm A Course in Miracles, Wed at 12 pm Healing Prayers, 3rd Thu at 7 pm Dynamics for Living, Wed. at 7 pm Reiki Healing Circle, 4th Thu at 7 pm Metaphysical Movie Night, 2nd Fri at 7 pm

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

Rev. Shawn Moninger

50

3 Main St, Norwalk, CT 06851 (over the Ford dealership) ufconline.org (203) 855-7922

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Unity

A Spiritual Philosophy For Positive Living!

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Childcare Provided

The Good Bookstore is open Sundays before and after the Celebration Service.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

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

Hilton Stamford. $15/$10 in advance.

Tickets: GreenwichYPG.com Exhibitors: 203.531.3047

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 Kundalini Sadhana 5-7:30am. Meditation and 7 chants one for each chakra. Suggested donation $20 used to offer free programs at Y4E. Portions also go directly to the Kundalini Institute. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

Mossy Banks Concert Series 7-8pm. Melodies of Irish & Scottish folk music performed on fiddle

by Caitlin Finley and Andrew Boyd. Followed by an Irish jam session, bring instruments. $5. Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. RSVP: 203.270.8820.

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.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 Kombucha Tea Making Workshop 1-2pm.

Learn to brew this ancient health elixir. Detailed instructions with a step by step demonstration. $20.

Take home a free mushroom or starter worth $20.

Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. 203.270.8820.

Eight Limbs of Yoga 2:30-5pm. Yoga is an art and science creating a union between the body, mind and spirit. Techniques to benefit each limb. $35 paid by 10/1, $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody.

Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom with Peter Gros 10am & 1pm. A bevy of wild animals will be the stars on stage! $25 adult; $20 children.

Ridgefield Playhouse. 80 East Ridge. Ridgefield.

203.438.5795.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10 Introduction to Reiki 9am-12pm. $25. Workshop for anybody who would like to detect and work with energy and its anatomy, background, exercises to increase perception and awareness & meditations. ReikiOvertones. Fairfield. Register w/ Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11 Women’s Anti-Aging, Nutrition & Stress Reduction Workshop 7-9pm. Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Renee Simon, MS, and Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Stacy Raymond, combine their

Fairfield

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

Bethel Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 9am-1pm • June 25 – November 5 Rt. 6, 67 Stony Hill Rd., across from Stony Hill Inn BethelFarmersMarket.org Bridgeport Farmers’ Market Thursdays, 2-6pm • June 23 – October 27 United Congregational Church, 877 Park Ave. Danbury Farmers’ Market Fridays, 11am-4pm • July 8 – October 28 Kennedy Park, Main St.

Rowayton Farmers’ Market Fridays, 12-5pm • June 3 – October Pinkney Park, 177 Rowayton Ave. RowaytonCT.com/FarmersMarket Sandy Hook Organic Farmers’ Market Tuesday, 2-6pm • June 28 – October 18 Wasserman Way, Fairfield Hills Campus SandyHookOrganicFarmersMarket.org

Darien Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 11am-6pm • May 11 – December 21 Mechanic St., behind Fire House Fairfield - Greenfield Hills Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 12:30-4pm • June 4 – October 29 Greenfield Hills, 1950 Bronson Rd. Georgetown Farmers’ Market Sundays, 10am-2pm • May 22 – October 30 4 Old Mill Rd. GeorgetownCTFarmersMarket.com Greenwich Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 9:30am-1pm May 14 – November 19 Commuter Parking Lot, Exit 3 off I-95, Arch St. & Horseneck Ln.

Shelton Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 3-6pm & Saturdays, 9am-1pm June 4 – October 29 Corner of Cornell St. & Canal St. Stamford High Ridge Farmers’ Market Wednesdays & Sundays, 10am-4pm June 18 – October 29 High Ridge Shopping Center Stamford Museum & Nature Center Farmers’ Market Fridays, 10am-2pm • June 10 – October 28 39 Scofieldtown Rd, Upper Parking Lot Stratford Farmers’ Market Mondays, 1-6pm • June 27 – October 31 Deluca Field, Main St.

Monroe Farmers’ Market Fridays, 3-6pm • June 24 – October 21 Monroe Town Green, Fan Hill Rd. & Rte. 111 MonroeFarmersMarket.org New Canaan Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 10am-2pm • May 14 – November 19 Old Center School Parking Lot, South Ave. & Maple St. NewCanaanFarmersMarket.net Norwalk - Calvary Baptist Church Farmers’ Market Mondays, 3-6pm • June 13 – October 31 21 Concord St.

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

Trumbull Farmers’ Market Thursdays, 2-6pm • June 16 – October 27 Long Hill Green, Main St. Westport Farmers’ Market Thursdays, 10am-2pm • May 26 – November 3 26 Imperial Ave., Municipal Parking Lot Westport - Sunday Farmers’ Market Sundays, 10am-1pm • May 22 – Novemer 20 Saugatuck Congregational Church, 245 Post Rd. E. Wilton Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 2-6pm • May 25 – September 28 224 Danbury Rd., Wilton Historical Society

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expertise, reclaim one’s vitality. Free. Connecticut Center for Change. Ridgefield. Dorrie: 203.431.9582.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 Kitchen Gardening: Creating Sprouts at Home 6:30-8:15pm. Steve Meyerowitz, the Sproutman® whose passion is to return to the concept practiced over a hundred years ago, families provided one’s food. $15. Catch a Healthy Habit Café. Fairfield.

203.292.8190.

Teen Zombie Night 7pm. It’s mind over mindeaters as one participates in Zombie Apocalypse, a zombie-themed role-playing game (RPG). Middle school & up. Free. Westport Library. Seminar Room. Free. 203.291.4809.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 The Universal Reiki Plan 11am-1pm. 3rd Saturday monthly. Private Reiki sessions for the general public. $10. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant.

85 Ferris St. Bridgeport. ReikiOvertones. Winter classes, info or appointments call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

Healing with Love 1-3pm. Workshop and book signing with Gene Krackehl to explore the many dimensions of healing. Cost: $45. Albertson Church. Old Greenwich. Call: 914.610.5146.

Yoga for the Whole Family! 2:30-3:30pm. Yoga really is for everybody, special class is designed for children (ages 5-12 years) and adults to enjoy and share together! $15 if paid by 10/8. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

Sacred Healing Gatherings 9-11am w/ Erika Tsoukanelis. Meditation, presentation, walk of intention around the labyrinth and closing meditation providing an opportunity to heal and rejuvenate one’s Spirits. Donation. Sticks and Stones. Newtown. RSVP to Joanne White: 203.650.4060.

Blessing of the Animals 11am. All welcome.

Companion animals must be on a leash or in a carrier. Special service at Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism. 293 Sound Beach Avenue.

Old Greenwich. 914.610.5146.

Information Session on Groundbreaking Masters Degree Programs 5:30pm. Free. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. RSVP: 203.874.4252.

Fibromayalgia & Chronic Pain Lecture 7pm.

Presented by Dr. Scott Bender, about a highly effective treatment – a gentle, drug-free, natural approach called Atlas Orthogonal which has helped thousands regain their health. Free. 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. RSVP: 203.967.8888.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17 Shape Up: Helping Kids to Eat Right! 4:305:30pm. 6 week program teaches goal setting and planning skills. 1st Class Free. Child must be accompanied by a parent. Jazzercise Fitness Center of Stamford. 203.845.8856.

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

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

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18 Teen Animé Night 6:30pm. An evening of animé.

Bring ideas for content, share a personal collection, & browse the Library’s collection. Westport Library. McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4809.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 Great News About Raw Food Nutrition 6:308:30pm. Doctors Rick and Karin Dina present a positive view on health benefits one can achieve through a well-designed raw food diet. $15. Catch a Healthy Habit Café. Bridgeport. 203.292.8190.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 Happiness Through Meditation - A Book reading, discussion and signing with Paul Epstein, ND 1-2pm. What is happiness? Where does it come from? How is it achieved? Free.

Westport Center for Senior Activities. Westport.

203.341.5099.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 The Art of Healing 10am-1pm. Rev. Lelia Cutler, President of the National Spiritualist Association of Churches, teaching the fundamentals of Hands On Healing, as practiced by the NSAC. Cost: $45.

Albertson Church. Old Greenwich. 914.610.5146.

Séance Circle 7-9pm. Rev. Lelia Cutler, President

Find New Life After Divorce

“Divorce Ends a Marriage-Not A Family” Counseling Services

Play Therapy Parent Child/Conflict Co-Parenting Coaching Blended Family Challenges

KelleyHopkinsAlvarez.com - 203-948-0938

Chef Ely Grübel

Personal Computer Training

Fitting your budget and dietary requirements

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

& Troubleshooting

Qualified Food Operator (SerSafe) Board Certified Health Counselor

• menu planning • freezing • shopping • cleaning • cooking Premier Member, United States Personal Chef Association, Licensed - Insured

203 559 8946 • elygrubel@gmail.com 52

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Because Your Computer Wants You To Succeed!

Aliza Wolfe (203) 554-5975

Fo Ladier s!

of the National Spiritualist Association of Churches will conduct a traditional mediumship circle.

Cost: $35. Albertson Church. Old Greenwich.

914.610.5146.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 24 Dr. Gabriel Cousens, M.D. 6:30-8:30pm. Lecture: Merging heaven (spirit) and earth (live food) in a way that elevates consciousness. Followed by a shaktipat meditation. $25. Hosted by Catch a Healthy Habit @ Fairfield Theatre Company.

Fairfield. 203.292.8190.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25 Angel Card Reading 7-9:30pm w/ Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher. Introduction to Angel card reading for oneself and others. Learn techniques to help connect with one’s angels. $28.

Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203.852.1150.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27 Healthy Pot Luck Supper 6-9pm. Just bring a healthy dish to share, + own plate, cup, bowl, utensils. Raw foodist’s welcome. No alcohol or smoking. Last pot luck for 2012! Free. Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. 203.270.8820.

Documentary Screening: Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days 6:30-8:30pm. Chronicles six Americans with diabetes who switch to a diet consisting entirely of vegan, organic, uncooked food in order to reverse disease. Catch A Healthy Habit Café. Fairfield. 203.292.8190.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 StoryWalk™ - Me…Jane by Patrick McDonnell 11am-11:30am. Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. Norwalk Public Library. 1 Belden Ave. 203.899.2780 ext 15131.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Shades of Autumn Yoga Day Retreat 10:45am3:15pm. AM & PM yoga class, labyrinth & woodland walk & vegetarian lunch. Beginner’s welcome. Sticks and Stones Farm. Newtown. $45 or $40 pre-paid by 10/16. RSVP Zoe: 203.258.9666.

Sleeping Beauty Presented by Connecticut Ballet 2pm & 4:30pm. Perfect way to introduce children to Ballet and celebrate Halloween by bringing children in costume! Tickets $25 adults; $20 children. Ridgefield Playhouse. 203.438.5795.

Mahalo Hawaii Photography Show 3-7pm.

Celebration of the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island as seen by celebrated local photographer, Elisabeth J. Levy. Prints & cards available for purchase. Refreshments. $2. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury. 914.261.3509.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Natural Awakenings Health & Wellness Expo Fall 2011 5:30-9pm. The ultimate healthy holiday shopping experience! 100+ exhibitors. Fitness, Dance, Yoga demonstrations. Complimentary healthy refreshments and parking. $15 or $10 in advance. Hilton Stamford. Tickets/Info: 203.531.3047.

ongoingevents

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

Periwinkle Health.

Trumbull.

203.261.7615.

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

Interplay Health. Stamford. 203.845.8856.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. Bring healthy alignment to the body while finding the centered calm within oneself. Jewish Community Center. Sherman.

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

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

All levels welcome. No-Limit Health & Fitness.

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

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

Catch Your Breath. Fairfield. 203.255.9111.

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

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

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

Total Learning and Therapy Center. Trumbull.

203.268.8852.

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

Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding.

Please call: 203.938.3690.

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

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

914.393.9221.

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

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

Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

The Thought Exchange 7pm w/ David Friedman.

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

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

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.

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

Interplay Health. Stamford. 203.845.8856.

Gentle Yoga 7:30pm. Beginners welcome.

8 classes for $80 or $12 per class. Jazzercise Fitness Center, 633 Hope St. Stamford.

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

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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.

COMING IN NOVEMBER

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

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.

CREATIN G A

NEW ECONOMY A fair economy works for people and the planet.

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

914.393.9221.

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

203.274.5085. ®

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

Read about it in Natural Awakenings’ November edition.

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

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

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury.

24 Clapboard Ridge. Danbury. 845.661.3630.

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

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

Sally: 203.854.6744.

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

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

203.885.4674

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Therapy 8-9:30pm Teaching regulate

group for Recovering Alcoholics w/ Sandra Eagle, LCSW. Begins 2/8. grounding techniques, used to selfe.g. anxiety, depression, volatility,

cravings. 8 sessions. Ongoing sessions available.

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

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

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

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

The Graceful Planet. Newtown. 203.426.8215.

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

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

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

Release your mind and free yourself! Love offering.

Unity Center. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

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

Associated Neurologists of Southern CT. Fairfield.

Registration required: 203.333.1133 ext. 152.

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.

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.

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

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

Middle Eastern Belly Dance 6-7:30pm.

Advanced Level. Instructor: Riskallah Riyad.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ananda Center.16 Forest St. New Canaan.

203.274.5085.

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

Instruction on how to live by Unity principles. Love offering. Unity Center above the Ford dealership. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

Journey within, Do you feel stuck? 7pm. 1st Wednesday monthly. Need support trying to begin something new? Support, intuitive insight, wisdom.

Facilitator: Cindy Miller, intuitive. $20. Newtown Congregational Church. 14 West St. Newtown.

Call: 203.426.9448.

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

Love Offering. Stamford. Call for directions: 203.554.1238.

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

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

3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

The Bars Process 7pm 1st Thursday monthly.

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

3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922.

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

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

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.

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

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

Monroe. 203.820.6261.

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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.

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

914.393.9221.

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

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

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

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

Info: 203.750.0731.

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

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

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

By appointment. $25/session. Periwinkle Health.

Trumbull, 203.261.7615.

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

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

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

203.854.6744.

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

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

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

203.438.7146.

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

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

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

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

203.268.3262.

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

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

203.767.6453.

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

203.767.6453.

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

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

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

Newtown. 203.426.8215.

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

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

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

914.393.9221.

Yoga Presbyterian (Fish Church) 10-11am.

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

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

The Ananda Center.16 Forest St. New Canaan.

203.274.5085.

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

203.364.0851.

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

203.353.4363.

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; North Central FL; Lexington, KY; Cincinnati, OH; Tulsa, OK; Northeast PA; Columbia, SC; Southwest VA. Call for details 239.530.1377.

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

Experience selling to corporations preferred.

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

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

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

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

The Universal Reiki Plan 11am-1pm every 3rd Saturday. Private Reiki Session for nonpractitioners. Private sessions for the general public. $10 suggested. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant. Bridgeport. ReikiOvertones. Winter classes, info or appointment call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

BUY FRESH BUY LOCAL

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.

Support Your Local Farmer’s Markets 56

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FRANCHISES NOW AVAILABLE IN NY STATE AREA

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

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ACUPUNCTURE

AROMATHERAPY

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

YOUNG LIVING ESSENTAIL OILS

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

Cris Ann Mulreed 203.216.8413 pathfollowers@gmail.com

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility, and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad pg 17.

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

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

Certified by the Int’l Academy of Medical Acupuncture. Fellow of the Int’l Academy of Medical Acupuncture. See ad pg See ad pg 12. s in

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

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

ALLERGIES

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

JH WELLNESS, LLC

Bio-Feedback Technology Nutritional & Weight Loss Counseling JHWellness.com 203.716.1727 Experience our break through state-of-the art bio-communication technology. By removing the guesswork, this powerful and effective tool will assist in a lifetime of wellness. See ad pg 18.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER 499 Federal Rd, Brookfield CT 203.740.9300 SophiaNaturalHealth.com

As the hormone experts, we specialize in women’s health, natural hormone balancing, breast cancer prevention and thermography utilizing the highest definition camera in the area with interpretations from MD specialists in the field. Thermogram results include a free 15-minute phone consultation.

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

Dr. Mark Joachim Advanced Certified Practitioner 156 East Avenue, Norwalk 203.838.1555 Allergy-Cure-CT.com BioSET can eliminate all food and environmental allergies related to behavioral issues, asthma, eczema, headaches, fibromyalgia, sinus conditions, gastric disorders and chronic health conditions. Safe for all ages, without drugs, shots or side effects! See ad pg 6.

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

Providing outstanding care for pain relief to wellness as well as holistic care for accidents and injuries. We care for adults and children. See ad pg 12.

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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 11.

SCOTT BENDER, DC

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203.967.8888 ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com Dr. Bender is Board Certified in the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure, a gentle method for the detection, and correction of misalignments of the Upper Cervical Spine. He is also a founding member of the Trauma Imaging Foundation, a non-profit multispecialty physician group dedicated to the accurate diagnosis, and treatment of Brain, and Spinal Trauma. See ad pg 63.

COLONICS COLONICS AT LIFELINE HYGIENICS Rejuvenation Center Since 1993, Rye, NY 914.921.LIFE (5433)

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

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 38.

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

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

CORE ENERGETICS TERESA BULIT-GORDON, CCEP

Body-Oriented Process Work Offices in Greenwich and NYC 203.570.2876 AwakenToYourCore.com Within a supportive and empathetic relationship you will be guided in releasing and transforming patterns of behavior and core beliefs through the energy in your body. See ad pg 10.

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

I am a board certified counselor, and know that making that first call to a counselor can be tough. I value your time and will work hard with you to bring about change at a manageable cost. See ad pg 52.

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

GREEN LIVING

RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

GET GREEN CLEAN

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

44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203.797.0551

Accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Information Technology and Electrical Systems Technician; day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if eligible), free placement assistance. See ad pg 24.

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 2.

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.

See ad pg 15.

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 43.

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

HEALING STEPS

We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity, and reverence for nature. See ad pg 45.

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 49.

40 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown 203.364.1113 WaldorfCT.org

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

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

in your life.

The Way Dentistry should be!

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

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

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

5520 Park Ave, Ste 301, Ffld Town Line Merritt Pkwy, Exit 47 203.371.0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer.

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

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HYPNOSIS

LIFE COACH

MELANIE BARNUM, CH

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

LISA MEADE, PHD

WomenWithinsight.com 203.445.0117 Lisa@WomenWithinsight.com 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 38.

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

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

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

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

INTERFAITH MINISTRY

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 32.

MEDICAL DOCTOR HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 203.348.8805 DrSobo.com

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.

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

See ad pg 12.

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD

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

203.324.4747

INTUITIVE GUIDE JOAN CARRA

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

As a medium, she can bring to life, friends on the other side. She is recognized by the books The 100 Top Psychics in America and Files from the Edge. See ad pg 32.

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

NATURAL HEALTHCARE RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD Karen Zino, MD 1200 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.637.3337 Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology is a fullservice medical practice incorporating traditional and holistic approaches to women’s health. The practice includes two OB/ GYN’s and a naturopathic physician. See ad pg 4.

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 27.

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 13.

GARY S. GRUBER, ND

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

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTER

K. Pramila Vishvanath, ND Mark R. Sanders, ND 2324 Post Rd, Fairfield 203.259.2700 IntegratedHealthCenterOnline.com

Serving Fairfield County for 20 years. Specializing in craniosacral therapy, classical homeopathy, allergy assessment and treatment, nutrition, weight management, body reshaping and skin tightening, detox, colonics, breast thermography. See ad pg 21.

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

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

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 27.

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

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years.

Acupuncture, Bio-Identical H o r m o n e s , H o m e o p a t h y, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/ Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad pg 20.

Riverside 203.940.1948 Info@FixEat.com FixEat.com

Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself.

Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback, and other therapies. See ad pg 2.

NUTRITION CHEF ELY GRÜBEL

Licensed - Insured 203.559.8946 ElyGrubel@gmail.com

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.847.2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

FIXEAT NUTRITION AND HEALTH SERVICES LLC

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

NATUROPATHIC HEALTH CENTER, LLC

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

NUTRITION

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

ad pg 52.

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

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

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.

NINA ARNOLD, MPH, RN, CBN

Integrative Health Coach/ Holistic Nurse 860.869.7137 BariCoach@gmail.com BariCoach.com

or in-person.

Nina offers holistic guidance through an empowering, selfdiscovery process. Specialty in weight management and support for those considering/have had weight loss surgery. Services offered over the phone, via Skype,

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN OSTEOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTER, LLC

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

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

Most major insurances accepted.

PSYCHOTHERAPY DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

FOOD PHARMACOPOEIA LLC

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

FoodPharmacopoeia.com for more information.

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County DeniWeber.com 203.544.6094

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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PSYCHOTHERAPY

PSYCHOTHERAPY

STACY RAYMOND, PSY.D

LILA TAYLOR LMFT

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

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

Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

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

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT Reiki Master Ridgefield, CT 203.438.3050 TurningPointReiki.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

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

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

REIKI

GIGI BENANTI USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk, CT 203.852.1150 AngelHealReiki.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.

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.

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

Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment /Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad pg 49.

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

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

The 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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Attention:

Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Sufferers You Are Invited to a Free Lecture • Two choices: October 5 or 19 Dr. Scott Bender will be hosting a free lecture introducing a highly effective, painless and nonsurgical solution for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain.

He will be discussing the recently published research paper in the Journal Brain Injury, and upcoming research by the Trauma Research Foundation. In his research, he discusses a little known chiropractic procedure called Atlas Orthogonal which can give the promise of hope, and healing to chronic pain sufferers.

Dr. Bender first discovered the amazing healing potential of the Atlas Orthogonal procedure as a patient while attending Chiropractic College in Atlanta. While in school, Dr. Bender suffered a serious injury. He tried every available traditional chiropractic procedure available, but still suffered with horrible neck, and lower back pain. After a year of constant, and severe pain, Dr. Bender met a doctor who changed his life. This doctor specialized in an advanced spinal correction procedure called AO. Immediately after the first visit, Dr. Bender began to feel the amazing results under Atlas Orthogonal care. His body began to “heal itself” and the relentless pain that plagued him now quickly left his body. At that moment, Dr. Bender realized he had found his Life Purpose.

Upon graduation, Dr. Bender trained as an intern with several of the most respected AO doctors in the country. Two years later, he moved to Connecticut, and in 1997, opened his own Atlas Orthogonal office in Stamford. Almost 14 years later, CT Spine and Health Center has become the busiest AO office in the northeast, attracting patients from all over the world. Dr. Bender’s office is a state of the art facility with all of the most advanced diagnostic equipment available necessary to perform the AO procedure.

In the last 14 years, Dr. Bender has successfully treated hundreds of patients with Fibromyalgia, and Severe Chronic Pain. The AO procedure is completely painless, and with no side-effects.

This free lecture is limited to only those people that are Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain sufferers.

Seating is limited. Refreshments served.

If you qualify, please call 203.967.8888 to reserve your space, and learn more about how to:

Regain your health, naturally.

Date: Wed., October 5th or Wed., October 19th Time: 7:00 pm Place: Dr. Bender’s office

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford

Call For Reservations:

203.967.8888 “Thank you so much for caring enough and having the integrity to be the right kind of doctor that gets to the root cause.

Without caring physicians who listen and aren’t satisfied with the status quo, people like me would go through life being misdiagnosed, put on a needless regimen of drugs, and be living a life of pain and frustration. You are a great doctor!” - Fran Brennan

COnneCTICUT SPIne AnD HeALTH CenTeR UPPeR CeRvICAL HeALTHCARe

Dr. Scott Bender 111 High Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06905 203.967.8888

ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

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