Natural Awakenings Fairfield County May 2015

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Special Issue

Women’s Wellness

Rethinking Breast Health Surviving & Thriving

Non-Invasive

Giving Fat and Birth Weight Loss Naturally Techniques

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

May 2015

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The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

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

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

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

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

From left to right:

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

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

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

Call now for details.

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

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

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Healthy

Pizza & MoRe made with 100% Organic Whole Grain Flour ~ no exceptions ~

Savor Healthy Pizza

430 Main Ave (Rt 7) Norwalk, CT Across from the Merritt Professional Buildings

203-939-1666

Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm

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h e a lt h y

May 2015 l ieNaturalAwakenings.com v e w e l l3

WHY AN ORGANIC MATTRESS IS RIGHT FOR YOU

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.

28 TOOLS FOR AUTHENTIC 32 LIVING IN A STRESS FILLED WORLD

by Nicole Miale

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

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

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

This is “green wash” marketing hype.

FIND A HUGE SELECTION OF THE BEST ORGANIC MATTRESSES IN THE WORLD

32 LAURA PREPON’S

JOURNEY TO HEALTH Home Cooking, Organics and Massage Are Keys

by Gerry Strauss

34 RETHINKING

BREAST HEALTH

Natural Ways to Keep Breasts Smooth, Pain-Free and Firm, while Reducing the Risk of Cancer

by Lisa Marshall

34

36 SURVIVING AND

THRIVING THROUGH BREAST CANCER

Fairfield County Women Share Their Stories

by Beth Leas

46 MAKING HEALTHY FOOD 48 WITH NO COMPROMISE

48 GIVING BIRTH NATURALLY Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention

by Meredith Montgomery

52 THE SKINNY ON

NON-INVASIVE FAT AND WEIGHT LOSS TECHNIQUES

by Patricia Staino

TheCleanBedroom TM

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

5 5 DIVORCE AS

AN INITIATION

Understanding the Five

Stages of Divorce

by Larry Ford

56 WOMEN’S WELLNESS

PROFILES

55

18 8 newsbriefs 18 healthbriefs 22 communityspotlight 24 globalbriefs 32 wisewords 42 thermographyprofiles 44 inspiredtable 46 communityspotlight 48 healingways 60 naturallyhealthypet 22 64 petresourceguide 66 productmarketplace 67 calendar 72 classifieds 73 resourceguide 78 cosmicrhythms 24 78 displayadindex

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

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A Center for Arts & Mindfulness Align Yourself with Your True Nature Kabbalah Workshop Friday, May 1, 7pm Angelic Communication Course Saturday, May 2, 1:30pm The Art Of Tuina Tuina Massage Lunchtime Workshop with Dr. Whitton Friday, May 8, 12pm Zen and the Art of Seeing Photography as Meditation Sunday, May 17, 10am Whispers From Spirit An Evening of Spirit Communication with Psychic Medium Patty Griffin Friday, June 5, 7pm Dream Into Summer Solstice Dream Workshop with Author & C.D.T Sunday, June 14, 11am SOUND Mini Psychic Reading Expo Psychic, Mediums, Animal Communicator, & More!

Saturday, June 27, 12-5pm

YogArts Summer Camp

Limited to 10 Campers Only 2 Weeks - Reserve Your Space Now Mindfulness, Meditation, and Energy

Teen Camp 4 Day Summer Series - 12 & up The Wellness Center at SOUND Regular Offerings

Ukulele classes • Kundalini yoga • Yoga for kids & families • Essential oil classes • Psychic development for beginners • Mindful-based stress reduction course • Past life regression • Sound healing meditations and concerts • Creative/expressive art therapy

Seating is limited.

Preregistration is required to hold your space.

A Center for Arts & Mindfulness

31 Hawleyville Road, Newtown, CT

203.270.1119 www.soundcenterarts.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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letterfrompublisher

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

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

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

attended a yoga class recently where the instructor discussed the importance of living from the heart – a feeling space – rather than the head. As I hovered in a pose contemplating her words, I was struck by the similarity to recent conversations with Yudit Maros, a holistic psychotherapist recently relocated to Fairfield County. Yudit’s authenticity healing work (page 28) focuses on exactly this topic; we can’t think our way into wellness and can’t reason our way to happiness. The keys to achieving both goals – or just getting closer - lie within each of us, no matter which tools are used to activate a stronger dialogue with Nicole Miale heart and body. Yoga, meditation, journaling, body/energy work, dance, and exercise are some of the techniques I have employed. When I move away from them, my connection to self weakens and it shows in my health.

Knowing your body, trusting its messages and taking more responsibility for your state of being is a theme of our Women’s Wellness edition this month. We consider some common experiences which are frequently discussed but may have overlooked aspects – such as self-care for breasts to assembling care teams in the face of difficult diagnoses to natural childbirth options to going through the stages of divorce. In addition, we examine some non-invasive weight and fat loss options available in our area; this practical topic may appeal as swimsuit season approaches. To support you in your steps toward being a happier, healthier version of you, we provide profiles of some Fairfield County practitioners who devote their work to empowering others. Let them help you!

For inspiration, we also include some interesting conversations with a few visionaries in the community – Justin Pegnataro of Two Coyotes Wilderness School and Rex Bobi of Norwalk’s SAVOR Healthy Organic. These men set their standards high and the passion they bring to their respective work - nature and food - serves us all.

May is a busy month for events! Greening Our Children, Wilton Go Green, separate seminars on Lyme disease and the connection between health, prayer and healing, and the Sustainable Food & Farm Expo are some of the many events taking place in our area this month. Check out our news briefs and calendar sections for more ideas about great things to do.

Next month marks 10 years Natural Awakenings Fairfield County has been publishing! We will celebrate this milestone with the community at the Natural Awakenings Community Connections event that is also the Sticks & Stones Open House on June 14. More details coming next month, but mark your calendar!

I invite you to nurture yourself this month. You can’t think your way to happiness or health… you must feel your way there, one day at a time, with love and patience from others and yourself. I support you!

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 78.

Making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings

The Center For Natural Medicine Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine Revolutionizing Patient Care

Westport’s Premier Naturopathic Clinic Naturopathic Services Naturopathic Primary Care Acute Care Lab & Diagnostic Services Specialty Services Foundation Training Exercise Program Pelvic Floor Therapy Abnormal Pap & Escharotic Treatment Community Wellness Classes and Workshops Community Meditation Vitality Enhancement Therapies Hydrotherapy Craniosacral Therapy Reiki Acupuncture Thai Massage Mayan Uterine Massage

Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Kulveen Virdee Dr. Andrew Cummins Cindy Weschler, APRN Shannon Reynolds, LMT Tracy Pardo Beverly Lewis Amanda Placeres

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Call (203) 916-4600 to receive your complimentary 15 minute consultation with one of our providers.

Come Visit Us at Our New Location Save the Date for Shalva Clinic’s Open House Celebration!

Mother’s Day Weekend - Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th You and your family and friends will enjoy: Healthy bites and beverages • Innovative talks and tips • Free massages • Herbal medicine demos Fun and delicious recipes • Raffles and prizes!!!!

Visit www.shalvaclinic.org/openhouse to RSVP and view the schedule of events.

We’ll see you there… don’t forget to RSVP! 8 Lincoln Street, Westport, CT 06880 • P 203.916.4600 F 203.916.4601 • Info@ShalvaClinic.org •

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Shalva Clinic, LLC May 2015

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newsbriefs CancerCare Walk/Run for Hope Greenwich

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ancerCare’s 3rd Annual Walk/Run for Hope will take place at Greenwich Point in Greenwich on May 3. A children’s half-mile fun run starts at 9am, followed by a USAFT-sanctioned 5K at 9:15am. Families, individuals and teams are welcome. Registration and check-in begin at 7:45am.

The purpose of the event is to walk or run to celebrate survivors, support those facing cancer and remember those lost. Funds raised will go toward CancerCare’s free, professional support services, which are available to anyone affected by cancer.

The entry fees are $40 per adult (13 and older), $20 per child (12 and under) and $10 per child for the fun run only.

All participants receive a T-shirt. Race awards for the top finishers and awards to top individual and team fundraisers will be presented after the race.

For more information and registration, visit CancerCare.org/ WalkGreenwich. Greenwich Point is located at Tod’s Driftway, Greenwich.

Network Night at Salon Aponte

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onroe’s Salon Aponte, an ecominded hair salon that also offers other services ranging from body sugaring to Reiki, will hold its Network Night on May 21 from 6 to 8pm.

Networking guests will include Janice Covey, a compound chemist and creator of Kosmotolgy natural skin products for the entire family; Eliana Grubel, an in-home chef; Laurie Brautigam, a dōTERRAa essential oils representative; Barbara Greenhouse, a health coach specializing in diabetes and cancer patients; and Robin Gilmore, aBridgeport-based creator of upcycled jewelry.

Salon Aponte uses organic-based coloring devoid of harmful pigments that are present in traditional hair coloring products. The salon’s conversion to more organic and healthy products began 12 years ago. The salon also carries Juice Plus.

For more information, visit SalonAponte.com or call 203-261-2838. Salon Aponte is located at 838 Main St, Monroe. See ad, page 17.

What Makes A Summer Camp Extraordinary?

Kids ages 5-14 learn how to: Build fires Make shelters & forts Create nature art Gather wild edibles Connect more meaningfully to people & nature

Learn More! Visit us at: TwoCoyotes.org 8

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Vaccine Choices and Informed Consent Workshop

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n May 2 at 10am, the Informed Consent lecture will be held at Connecticut Friends School’s Wilton campus.

The event, organized by Dr. Risa Sloves, Dr. Diana Lopusny and Beth Lambert, is being sponsored by Women of Wellness of Connecticut.

In addition to covering vaccine policies, speakers will inform citizens how they can take action to protect informed consent and defend their rights and freedoms. Panelists will discuss whether individuals have the right to know and the freedom to choose whether or not to be vaccinated.

The featured speakers include Theresa Wrangham, National Vaccine Information Center’s (NVIC) executive director. She also monitors federal vaccine advisory committee meetings and is a consumer reviewer for Cochrane Collaboration and Consumers United for Evidence-Based Healthcare. She was a co-leader in spearheading NVIC’s successful campaign in Colorado in 2013-2014 to defend the personal belief vaccine exemption and has participated in other government public engagement initiatives for various vaccine policies. Mary Holland, another featured panelist, is a research scholar and the director of the Graduate Lawyering Program at New York University’s School of Law. She also chairs the advisory board of Health Choice and is a founding board member of Elizabeth Birt Center for Autism Law and Advocacy. She co-authored the book Vaccine Epidemics and has written many articles on vaccines and autism. In addition, Roman Bystrianyk, who co-authored Dissolving Illusions: Disease, Vaccines, and The Forgotten History with Suzanne Humphries, MD, is scheduled to participate. The book focuses on how vaccines, antibiotics and other medical interventions are not solely responsible for the increase in lifespan and the decline in mortality from infectious diseases.

The workshop is $25 a person with advance registration, which is strongly recommended as seating is limited. If seats are available, $30 cash only will be accepted at the door.

To register, send a check for $25 a person to Diana Lopusny, 88 Noble Ave, Ste 101, Milford, CT 06460, and include the names of those attending, a contact phone number and email address. Quaker Meeting House at Connecticut Friends School is located at 317 New Canaan Rd (Rte 106), Wilton.

You must do the things you think you cannot do. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

MAY at

The Common Bond Market COOKING CLASSES

The Common Bond Market is hosting vegan and glutenfree cooking classes in May! For $25 you can learn from an amazing local chef how to make delicious and healthy food. The first two classes are May 14th and May 28th from 6-8 pm - just come in and sign up at the register!!

LECTURE SERIES

The Common Bond Market is resuming it’s Thursday evening lecture series The Common Bond Talks.

From 7-8 pm you’ll learn about the impact of today’s world on your health, wellness strategies, and other topics of interest.

It’s always free and no registration needed.

40 Huntington St. Shelton, CT 203.513.8200

Clinics

Your Partners in Health and Wellness.

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

Naturopathic Medicine • Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture Call today to find out how you can receive state-of-the-art, patient-centered care at New England’s fastest growing university.

Call our UB Clinics at 203-576-4349 to take advantage of this unique healthcare opportunity located in your own backyard.

For more information, please visit www.ubclinics.org

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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newsbriefs Wilton Going Green on May 3

THE LOFT Salon & Spa Launches

he 5th Annual Wilton Go Green Festival will be held W I L T ON on May 3 from 11am to 4pm at the Wilton Town Green and the Wilton Library parking lot. The event will feature an opening FESTIVAL ceremony with special guests, music, food, a dog parade, the Westport Electric Car Club EV Car Rally, and nature exhibits and animals. In addition to magic by Cyril the Sorcerer, there will be 80 interactive exhibits and activities for all ages.

Silver sponsors for the event include Bankwell, City Carting, Next Step Living, Nod Hill Soap and Realty Seven. Good Morning Wilton, Natural Awakenings Fairfield County, Star 99.9 and 95.9 The Fox are the media sponsors.

Incorporated in 2010, Wilton Go Green is a nonprofit organization created by a group of citizens to develop a wide range of sustainable initiatives in cooperation with the town and other area organizations.

new beauty retreat, THE LOFT Salon & Spa, has opened on Long Ridge Road in Stamford. It intends to become a “sanctuary for style and soul” by actively supporting local and international charities, as well as holding progressive events for patrons and the community.

Upcoming events at the new salon include Literature at the Loft: Beauty from Within on April 30 from 6 to 8pm. The book club will host Janet Ettele, author of the How Life Works book series. She will demonstrate how the Six Perfections taught by 8th century Buddhist monk Master Shantideva are as relevant today as they were then. On May 14, THE LOFT will feature South American artworks for sale to benefit cataract surgical and medical missions to the remote villages of the Sacred Valley of Peru and other regions in need.

To join as an exhibitor or sponsor, contact Daphne Dixon at DaphneDixon@mac.com or 203-536-4695. For festival details, visit WiltonGoGreen.org/WGG-Festivals/WGG-Festival-2015.

For more information, visit TheLoftCT.com or call 203-8909494. THE LOFT Salon & Spa is located at 1051 Long Ridge Rd, Stamford.

GO GREEN

T

A

DID YOU REALIZE THAT

TOXINS Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – and any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Call us to schedule an appointment:

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

INFLAMMATION?

D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8

1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851

The truth is we all need connection, emotional support and recognition to thrive.

The truth is we all need connection, recognition to thrive.

Join us and experience the power ofemotional being in support a Core and Energetics process group Core Relations Join encourages us and experience the power of being in athe Core Energetics process that you to express yourself.

With support of other womengroup you Opens in Greenwich; thatembody encourages youand to express Withdelightful the support will wisdom courage,yourself. and be your self. of other women you Plans Workshop will embody wisdom and courage, and be your delightful self.

for Women

K

Evelyn Caryannis

Karin Knoblich

arin Knoblich, Evelyn Carayannis is a graduate of Core owner of Energetics and Kriya She of studies Evelyn Carayannis is aYoga. graduate Core Core Relations in Marriage and Family and studies has a Energetics and KriyaTherapy Yoga. She New York practice City,and is Family private in Greenwich, She hasa Marriage TherapyCT. and has opening a center been noted for her warmth and private practice in Greenwich, CT.presence She has inas Greenwich a facilitator.

Her warmth desire is to presence support been notedto for her and bring Ener-into their women step create the as Core a facilitator.

Her power desire and is to support getics to lower life they long women step for. into their power and create the Fairfield County. for.

Please visit: life they longwww.evelycaryannis.com Please Core Energetics visit: www.evelycaryannis.com is a psychodyKarin Knoblich is a Core Energetics namic approach Practitioner (CCEP),islifea coach, Karinto Knoblich Core Exceptional Energetics seeking restore Marriage Mentor and spiritual counselor.

Practitioner (CCEP), life coach, Exceptional the free flow of enShe is the Mentor owner of Core Relations and a Marriage and spiritual counselor. ergy in the body by faculty member ofofthe Institute of and Corea She is the owner Core Relations releasing blocks.

Energetics.

Karin of hasthe a private practice in faculty member Institute of Core On June 13 from NYC and Greenwich CT. Her desire is to Energetics.

Karin has a private practice in 10am to 6 pm, facilitate a Greenwich process that allows women to NYC and CT. Her desire is to Knoblich and embody their full potential. facilitate a process that allows women to Evelyn Caryannis Please visit: www.core-relations.com embody their full potential.

(EvelyCaryannis.

Please visit: www.core-relations.com com) – both

This workshop is held This workshop held Sunday June 13,is2015 Sunday June from 10am - 613, pm2015 from 10am - 6 pm at Core Relations at Core 522 East Relations Putnam Avenue 522 East Putnam Avenue Suite 8A Greenwich, CT Suite 8A Greenwich, CT Please register at Please register at www.core-relations.com www.core-relations.com or call Karin 917-549-8689 or Evelyn call Karin 917-549-8689 or at 917-685-7591 or Evelyn at 917-685-7591 for more info. for more info.

trained in Core Energetics – will offer Tired Of Going It Alone?, a workshop for women. This workshop will be an introduction to Core Energetics and the foundation for an ongoing women’s group.

Knoblich is a certified Core Energetics practitioner, life coach, Exceptional Marriage Mentor and spiritual counselor who works with individuals, couples and groups. She is also a faculty member of the Institute of Core Energetics. Carayannis is a graduate of Core Energetics and Kriya Yoga. She offers marriage and family therapy in a private practice in Greenwich.

To register for the workshop, visit Core-Relations.com or call 917-5498689 or 917-685-7591. Core Relations is located at 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich.

You can’t control where your heart goes. ~Laura Prepon

Kindred Spirits A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

Relax, Enjoy, Let Your Spirit Shine Through Interfaith Ministry Services Energy Sessions (Reiki, Rising Star) Certification Classes (Reiki, Rising Star) Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Ear Coning • Meditation Classes Intuitive/Clarity Sessions Group Workshops • Buddhist Chanting

203-938-3690 www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896 eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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Natural Health & WELLNESS CENTER

Individualized Treatment Plans for Acute and Chronic Conditions

newsbriefs Aspetuck Land Trust Announces New Programs

Osteoarthritis & Joint Disorders • Back Problems Cholesterol Problems • Anxiety & Depression Fatigue, Insomnia & Weight Gain • Diabetes High Blood Pressure • Headaches & Migraine Upper Respiratory Conditions

LISA SINGLEY, N.D. Naturopathic Physician 203.874.4333

We accept most health insurance plans including Husky Health Connecticut

Schedule a consultation and receive 20% off all recommended supplements

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

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www.leboudoirbeauty.com 160 Main Street 160 Main Street New Canaan, CT 06840

New Canaan, CT 06840 Blowout, Dry Style, Scalp Massage, Conditioning Blowout, Dry Style, Treatment, Scalp Massage, Well Water Clarifying Treatment, Conditioning Treatment, Eyes and Lips Refresh

Well Water Clarifying Treatment, Eyes and Lips Refresh

(203) 957.8600 Book An Appointment 12

(203) 957.8600 natural awakenings Book An Appointment

Fairfield County Edition

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utdoor playtime for children and learning from nature will be the focus of two new family programs beginning this spring. They are free and open to the public at the Aspetuck Land Trust’s (ALT) 20-acre Leonard Schine Preserve in Westport.

Starting April 18 at 8am and continuing thereafter on Saturdays, families with children are invited to attend the free Family Playdates Program at The Natural Playground located at the Schine Preserve in Westport. The playground has areas for tower climbing, fort building, trail walking, nature collages, stick stacking, pine cone doll play and other activity.

The Natural Playground appeals to preschool and elementary age children but families are welcome to bring all ages.

“This is a great opportunity for children to have some free play time in nature, for parents to enjoy some free coffee we will provide, for socializing and a sense of community.

There are numerous benefits derived from outdoor play in a natural setting—fresh air, exercise, and imaginative play to name a few,” said David Brant, executive director of Aspetuck Land Trust.

In addition, children in first through fifth grades are invited to join the Aspetuck Land Trust Junior Ranger program to explore a variety of ALT preserves. To become an ALT Junior Ranger, children complete a booklet of activities ranging from hiking to leaf identification. To receive an ALT Junior Ranger Booklet, contact Celia Campbell-Mohn at CCampbellMohn@gmail.com or 203-293-5707.

Aspetuck Land Trust is a local nonprofit land conservation organization founded in 1966 to preserve open space in the towns of Westport, Weston, Fairfield and Easton. ALT maintains 44 trailed nature preserves and other conservationonly properties on over 1,700 acres of land.

For more information, visit AspetuckLandTrust.org.

Schine Preserve is located at 1 Glendinning Pl, Westport.

Cucumber & Chamomile’s Grand Opening

M

eredith Mulhearn of Cucumber & Chamomile has opened a new custom tea shop in Ridgefield. Mulhearn has provided nutrition therapy services to Meredith Mulhearn Fairfield County residents through Cucumber & Chamomile for the past two years. She will continue to offer these services in the new space in addition to incorporating custom loose tea blends and accessories. All the Apothecary Line teas will be blended in-house for each customer while they wait.

Regular events at the store will include Tea Tasting Thursdays and High Tea.

“To our loyal customers, not to worry – we’ll be continuing all of our nutrition services in the new space, as well as educating clients on the many benefits of herbal tea,” explains Mulhearn. “I’m pleased to announce that we’ll be working in conjunction with Ridgefield resident and aromatherapist Pippa Martin, who has extensive knowledge of herbalism. This will be a place for people to disconnect and enjoy a ‘quiet zone’ to escape from the stresses of every day – so they can take time for themselves and sip a cup of tea by the window.”

The location was previously home to Sweet Pierre’s. “I will be continuing the chocolate tradition, offering a healthy, decadent line of small-batch chocolate,” says Mulhearn. “Everyone keeps asking if there will still be chocolate, and everyone who has tried the samples loves it!”

For more information, visit CucumberandChamomile.com, call 203-431-0185, or follow at Facebook.com/CucumberChamomile or Twitter.com/CandCNutrition.

Cucumber & Chamomile is located at 3 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

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

It is based on the principle of biophotomodulation. Infrared light at 635 nanometers is absorbed by fat cells causing the cell’s pores to open and excrete the fatty acid contents into the surrounding fluid. The fat is taken away by the lymphatic system and consumed by body metabolism. The result is immediate loss of inches.

Only One Offer Per Person Restrictions May Apply New Patients Only Offer Expires 8/31/15

The Cleanest Touch LLC Bringing nature to your home

Your home is an extension of your body and spirit.

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

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

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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by Mary Baker Eddy, a textbook on scientific, mental healing, will be given to the first 100 who register.

SolarCity Gives New Meaning newsbriefs Pre-registration at www.health-prayer-healing-connection.eventbrite.com to “Solar Power” is recommended. olarCity, a full-service

Offering Perspective on Spiritual Healing

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solar provider, is available for Fairfield County customers to help energy users look at energy usage van Mehlenbacher, a practitioner Evan Mehlenbacher and identify opportunities and teacher of Christian Science Shortly after graduating from Stanford for improvements. SolarCity healing, will present Health, Prayer University, Evan went into the full-time performs the entire process and Healing: Finding the Connection This FREE public ministry of healing others through prayer.

– from permitting through on May 14 at 7:30pm at the Norwalk seminar is sponsored by He has lectured on the subject of Inn and Conference Center. The semi- installation – and provides prayer-based healing for over 19 years and ongoing First monitoring andof repair services for solar panels.

Church Christ, nar is co-sponsored by First Church hasChrist authored dozens of articles on this topic.

Lyndon Rive, CEO of SolarCity, and his brother, Peter Rive, of Scientist - Darien and First Scientist, Westport and Mehlenbacher a member of the Christian founded SolarCity in 2006 along with their cousin Elon Musk, Church of ChristisScientist - Westport.

First Church of Christ, Board of Lectureship.

Science Mehlenbacher will explainHe thetravelsfounder of PayPal and Tesla Motors. “The company currently from his home in Richland, Washington. employs Scientist, 7,000 Americans and is hiring 200 to 400 a week Darien spiritual origin of health and share across the country,” Rive says. “The company is doing the Evan Mehlenbacher practical examples of how the divine impossible by taking on the utility companies and making the law of God brings freedom from ills Any please call 203-612-1010 orprice 203-655-2772 of solar affordable for the common person,” he continues. of all types. His ideas arequestions, based on the teachings of Jesus “SolarCity is doubling in size every year,” says Rive. “Every three as recorded in the Bible, and as discussed in Science and minutes, another household becomes a SolarCity customer.”

Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy.

“SolarCity’s business model of no money down, free A free copy of this textbook on scientific, mental healing installation and free equipment has made going solar more will be given to the first 100 who pre-register at affordable for the average person,” says Richard Love, the Health-Prayer-Healing-Connection.eventbrite.com. company’s field energy consultant in Westchester. “SolarCity

“There’s a spiritual dimension to health that needs to be makes the process easy with concierge service and friendly, understood to experience health at its best. What we think knowledgeable employees,” he explains. “It also gives and pray makes a big difference to our well being,” says customers a warranty on the life of the system and various Mehlenbacher, a member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship. “Living true to one’s spiritual individuality made incentives.” in the likeness of God brings improvement to the human For more information on increasing the energy efficiency condition.” of a home or business through solar power, contact Richard For more information, visit ChristianScienceCT.org or Love at RLove@SolarCity.com or 914-262-9636, or visit call 203-612-1010. See ad, page 27.

SolarCity.com. See ad, page 18.

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Registration Open for GreenwichStamford Swim Across America

Insights Wellness Center Heal  Grow  Empower

Christine Guerrera, LMFT Licensed Psychotherapist Interfaith Minister, Spiritual Life Coach, Energetics InsightsWellnessCenter.com

Monroe, CT 203-260-9353

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he ninth annual Greenwich-Stamford Swim Across America event will be held on June 27. The swimmers will jump off from the Stamford/Greenwich shores next to Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy (ACGT), the beneficiary of the swim and a foundation dedicated exclusively to funding cancer gene therapy research.

The 2015 Greenwich-Stamford Swim will bring together recreational swimmers, competitive swimmers, Master swimmers, Olympians, kayakers and boaters to participate in an open water swim with half-mile, 1.5-mile and 3-mile options. Those who register before May 1 will get an additional $100 added to their fundraising goal by a Swim Across America supporter.

The national organization has raised $60 million in the fight against cancer with swims throughout the United States since its founding in 1987. Proceeds of the 2015 GreenwichStamford Swim’s fundraising efforts go directly to cancer research grants administered by ACGT, which dedicates 100 percent of all funds raised. Chairs for this year’s swim are Michele Graham and Lorrie Lorenz, both mothers of teenage cancer survivors. Honorary co-chairs are Donna DeVarona, John Pinto, and John and Cindy Sites.

“When my daughter was undergoing chemotherapy and struggled to recover from the devastating complications, I was overwhelmed by how much the community rallied to our side and supported us,” says Michele Graham.

“Co-chairing Swim Across America is our chance to give back and support everyone whose life is touched by cancer.

No one’s cancer is easy… Our goal is to raise funds for cancer treatment and prevention research so that everyone can be a survivor.”

Registration is required and can be completed online at SwimAcrossAmerica.org. For additional information, call 203-570-9195.

Positive anything is better than negative nothing. ~Elbert Hubbard

Massage Therapy

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

Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535

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

Hunter Healing Hands For Body, Mind, & Soul

Classes Workshops Drum Circles Reiki Shares Private Healing Sessions by Appointment

Jessica C. Hunter

Shamanic Practitioner & OM Certified Reiki Master Teacher Certified Crystal Therapy Practitioner Empath Intuitive, Shamanic Medium Spiritual Teacher

203-916-8381

www.hunterhealinghands.com hunterhealinghands@hotmail.com

J’ericka Products, LLC Beauty ~ Naturally

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Retail and Wholesale at www.Jpnaturally.com JerickaProducts893@yahoo.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

15

newsbriefs 20th Anniversary Golf Tournament to Benefit Ann’s Place

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he 2015 Ladies Golf Classic will be held on June 15 at the Richter Park Golf Course to benefit Ann’s Place, a community-based cancer support center in Danbury. Player and team participation, sponsorship, program advertisements, tee signs and donations of raffle and auction prizes will all directly impact local cancer survivors.

Registration and breakfast start at 7:45am, followed by the shotgun start at 9am. Lunch is at the turn during play while the awards banquet and raffle will take place after play.

Participants can win golf-related skill prizes and pro shop gift certificates.

Ann’s Place provides comfort and hope for those with cancer through a range of services, individualized counseling, support groups and wellness programs. The services are provided free of charge to 950 people of all ages – including those with cancer as well as their family members.

Sponsorships are still available for the event and information can be found on the Ann’s Place website. The tournament format includes the best two balls of foursome and gross and net individual prizes. The $175 registration fee includes a greens fee, cart, photo, prizes and meals.

For more information, registration of foursomes and sponsorship opportunities, visit AnnsPlace.org or email Events@ AnnsPlace.org. For player information, call Lori Zezza at 203-790-6568. The Richter Park Golf Course is located at 100 Aunt Hack Rd, Danbury. See ad, page 37.

Redding Meditation Center Offers Spring Weekend Retreat

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he Redding Meditation Center hosts quarterly weekend retreats to give people the opportunity to engage in intensive practice at regular intervals.

The upcoming Spring Weekend Retreat will begin at 7pm on May 1, and conclude at 5pm on May 3.

This retreat provides the chance to deepen a meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. While the retreat will be conducted mainly in silence, there will also be Dharma talks and question and answer periods. As is the tradition with meditation retreats, all attendees will have a private interview period with the center’s resident monks, Achan Da and Achan Mongkol, as a further aid to their practice.

Hours of practice during the retreat will be from 7 to 9pm on Friday, 7:30am to 9pm on Saturday, and from 7:30am to 5pm on Sunday. Practitioners may also elect to attend either Saturday or Sunday only.

The cost to attend the full retreat is $60, which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday’s breakfast and lunch. The cost of one-day attendance, including meals, is $30. Participants are asked to secure sleeping arrangements. Some rooms and a list of other nearby accommodations are available at the center.

Email Info@ReddingMeditation.org to reserve a place.

Registrations and checks should be sent to Sharon Todd, Redding Center for Mindfulness & Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, Redding. For more information, visit ReddingMeditation.org. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 75.

transformative natural healing are you ready for a change?

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

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

100 Danbury Road, Suite 102, Ridgefield, CT Ph. 203.431.4443 16

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Debra Gibson, ND

coverartist

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MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN, RN, CHHC

Nurse, Nutritionist & Healthy Lifestyle Coach

Prescription 4 Wellness

203-521-4733 Serving Fairfield County! healthylife@prescription4wellness.com www.Prescription4Wellness.com

Secret Cove Holly Kallie Expressing her world on paper and canvas has been the basis of Holly Kallie’s life for as long as she can remember. “Crayons and paints were an important part of my world as a very small child,” she recalls, “and the desire to paint or draw the people around me, using the lakes and beaches that I love as a setting, continues to be a driving force in my life.”

Kallie developed this close affinity with water early in life, during summers spent at her parents’ tiny cottage on a lake. Today, living in her own little lakeside retreat, the Wisconsin artist’s fascination is captured anew by the mercurial colors, reflections and mystery below the surface of the ever-changing waters.

“For me, water carries the same essence or spirit of the women and children that I paint: flowing, changing, playful and elusive,” she advises.

Achieving a soulful realism through the use of multiple layers of paint and glazes, Kallie continually refines her self-taught technique. “With my art, I seek to bring a sense of joy, love, peace and connection with our natural surroundings,” she says. “I hope my paintings take the viewer there.”

View the artist’s portfolio at HollyKallie.com.

Education That Reaches Your Core

HVWS_generic_NatAwake_4.75x4.5_Aug014_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 7/15/14 2:03 PM Page 1

6th Grade Geometry

Evolving from a profound understanding of human development and the human spirit, Waldorf Education offers a unique, experiential approach to education through the arts.

NOW ENROLLING: Parent-Child Classes through 8th Grade.

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

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

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May 2015

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healthbriefs

Weight Gain in Moms Lowers Toxins in Newborns

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Enter the Rewarding World oƒ

Massage Therapy Our full time program begins June 2015 For information on graduation rates, median debt of graduates from this program, and other important information visit our website at www.flsm.com or call us at 914-241-7363.

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FOR MORE INFO

TruMantra

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any expectant mothers try to know about everything they put into and onto their bodies as multiple studies are finding that infants are exposed to toxins during pregnancy. A new study of 325 expectant mothers has determined that the baby’s exposure to toxins in the womb decreases when the mother’s weight gain during pregnancy approaches the guidelines recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2009. Women that are underweight at the start of pregnancy are advised to gain between 28 and 40 pounds, women of a healthy weight 25 to 35 pounds, overweight women 15 to 25 pounds and obese women 11 to 20 pounds.

The researchers found that expectant mothers with a gestational weight that meets or exceeds the IOM guidelines gave birth to infants with reduced toxin levels. In their analysis of the umbilical cord blood of mothers from Spain, the researchers tested for 14 pesticides and 21 other environmental toxins, including seven polychlorobiphenyls (PCB). Other influencers such as age, education and fish consumption may also be relevant.

Italian Court Links Boy’s Autism to a Vaccine

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ast September, a Milan Court held in favor of plaintiffs that claimed that three doses of the hexavalent GlaxoSmithKline vaccine Infanrix Hexa that were administered to an infant beginning in 2006 caused autism later when he was a young boy. The vaccine is used for polio, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, whooping cough and haemophilus influenzae type B. After hearing from several medical experts, the court ruled that the child likely suffered autism and brain damage as a result of the vaccine’s content of mercury and aluminum, combined with a genetic mutation in the child rendering greater susceptibility. The ruling ordered damages to be paid by the Italian government’s national vaccine injury compensation program. The court’s decision was also based upon GlaxoSmithKline’s list of possible adverse events resulting from the vaccine, which included five cases of autism during clinical trials.

Today in the U.S., most vaccines routinely given to children under 6 years of age are free of thimerosal, a mercury-derived preservative.

Men are what their mothers made them. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson 18

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

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

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant

MAMMOGRAM OR THERMOGRAM?

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uzanne Pyle, MS, CCT, founder of X to Rays Thermal Imaging (XtoRays.com), is frequently asked whether a mammogram or a thermogram is a better test. It’s the wrong question to ask because it’s like comparing apples to oranges as the two technologies are totally different, Pyle explains. Mammograms show structure and use radiation and compression. Thermograms are safe and measure temperature changes in the skin associated with underlying pathology.

Though a mammogram can detect cancer as small as a few millimeters, thermograms can detect cancer while it is still at a cellular level – before it becomes visible on a mammogram.”

“Thermography has other unique abilities as well. It can indicate estrogen dominance, an imbalance in estrogen levels associated with higher breast cancer risk. It can detect lymph congestion, also a precursor to disease.

The effects of diet can also be clearly seen. Women on a typical Western diet who switch to a healthier plant-based diet show remarkable improvement in their thermal patterns,” states Tom Hudson, MD, one of the doctors who reads X to Rays’ thermograms.

“In short, thermography is a way to monitor breast health, not just a way to detect disease. Mammography can show you if you have a cancer or not, but other than that it has little purpose. Thermography offers a woman the chance to become aware of worrisome physiological changes before there is a diagnosable cancer,” Hudson concludes.

To book an appointment for a thermogram at a location near you, please call 888-XTORAYS or 203-331-2878.

For more information, please visit XToRays.com. See ad, page 25.

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

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

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

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

Natural Awakenings Community Connections SUNDAY, JUNE 14 • 11AM – 4PM

hosted by Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown. SticksandStonesFarm.com

Back by Popular Demand! Sticks and Stones has invited us all back for their annual Open House. Join us for a day of music, nature, healthy living inspiration and family fun. Walk the labyrinth; stroll the Mountain Laurel and Moss Garden; hike the trails throughout the beautiful and magical setting of this 60-acre farm. A free event!

Move Your Body: Yoga, Tai Chi, and Hooping Find Your Rhythm: Drumming and Ukulele Nature Exploration, Education and Inspiration: Two Coyotes Wilderness School, Gardening, Eating for Health, Mindfulness and More!

Fun for the Entire Family with FOOD and RAFFLES throughout the Day

For more information or to get involved call 203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

To Get Healthy, Get a Healthy Partner

Soul Focus

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Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com

• Integrated Swedish • Sports • Deep Tissue 122 River Road Ext. Cos Cob, CT 06807 203.869.1764 Pangaeamassage.com

Selected as Best of 2014 by Serendipity Magazine

ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

Լ

shamanic healer, reiki master, spiritual teacher & holistic health educator

ridgefield & new milford ct

www.embodythesacred.net

deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045

Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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

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natural awakenings

aving a healthier partner may be one of the best things to do for our own health. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine finds that losing weight, stopping smoking or becoming more active is easier with a partner that has led the way in any or all healthy pursuits.

The study authors reviewed data collected by the UK Health Behavior Research Center at the University College London that followed 3,700 couples between 2002 and 2012—most of them ages 50 and older and married. Those that smoked at the beginning of the study were more likely to quit by the end of it if their partners quit smoking, and those that were physically inactive at the beginning of the study were more likely to become active if their partners did so first. About two-thirds of the men became newly active during the course of the study.

Men with wives that had lost weight were more likely to also shed pounds during the study, and women with husbands that didn’t lose weight were less likely to do so through the study period.

Meditation Improves Brain Health

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arvard Medical School researchers working at the Massachusetts General Hospital have determined that meditation can improve brain health.

The researchers studied 16 volunteers that took part in an eight-week mindfulness meditation study at the University of Massachusetts Center for Mindfulness.

The participants conducted mindfulness meditation exercises for an average of 27 minutes a day. Before and after the trial, the subjects were given tests and magnetic resonance imaging of their brains.

The researchers found that the practice of mindfulness meditation resulted in increased gray matter density in the hippocampus of the brain, an area associated with increased memory and learning capacity, plus a greater sense of compassion and introspection.

No other chiropractic office in Connecticut offers the range of services that we do.

Why go anywhere else?

Dr. Risa Sloves and Dr. Mark Joachim have been in practice for over 25 years helping infants, children, and adults obtain optimal health through natural chiropractic and wellness care.

Dr. Risa Sloves is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care, is certified in the Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques, and has specialized training in cranial sacral therapy and scoliosis treatment.

SPECIALIZING IN Chiropractic Care for All Ages and Abilities Specialized Care for Pre and Postnatal Women and Pediatrics Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression with Axiom Drx 9000 for Low Back Disc Problems

Dr. Mark Joachim is the only physician in Connecticut with an Advanced Certification in The BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique, a non-invasive, drug-free and shot-free method to permanently eliminate food and environmental allergies.

Bioset Allergy Elimination Technique Nutritional Support • Functional Medicine Acupuncture with and without Needles Enzyme Therapy • Weight Loss

What Patients Are Saying About Treatment With Dr. Sloves and Dr. Joachim “My baby, Jessie, initially struggled with digestive problems, food sensitivities, and a facial rash. The benefits of BioSet have been a big part of her development. She is always happier, more relaxed and much less distressed for days and even weeks after treatment. Thank you for the health care that you have given to her and the rest of my family over the past 6 years - it has helped them enter life with ease and kept us all healthy.” - Dr. Randy Schulman "My back pain was so bad that even simple things, such as getting dressed, putting on socks and tying shoes became very difficult. I would occasionally miss work due to pain and also gave up exercise all together. I relied on family members to help with household chores. I have tried anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, and pain management specialist, none of which worked. I was very afraid that I would need surgery, but then I saw an article about the DRX 9000. When I started treatments, I noticed a difference after my first session and I kept on feeling better. The DRX treatments were so comfortable and at times I was so relaxed that I would fall asleep. I have already recommended the DRX treatment to others. I tell people that the DRX treatments helped me tremendously and I am finally able to live a normal, pain-free life."

- Robin W.

“My daughter had ear infections constantly from the time she was an infant.

She had taken over 30 antibiotics in 3 years and failed her hearing test.

Since I took her to Dr. Sloves, she has not had another ear infection or taken another antibiotic and her hearing is completely normal.” - Heather G. “I started smoking when I was a teenager and have smoked 1-2 packs a day since. I have tried quitting cold-turkey several times before but it never really worked; I tried the gums and patches. After coming to you for chiropractic care for my neck, I learned about acupuncture for smoking so I decided to give it a try. It amazes me that I actually stopped smoking in just 2 treatments and I have not smoked in several years. Thanks Dr. Sloves for giving me my lungs and my life back! “ - Rick “After Dr. Joachim treated my sons with a combination of BioSet and chiropractic adjustments, all of their allergies vanished and have not returned.

My husband's life long allergies have disappeared through Dr. Joachim’s treatments as well. We even got a dog which we thought we would never be able to do!” - Wendy M.

“I was referred to Dr. Sloves by a friend during my pregnancy because I was 36 weeks pregnant and my baby was breech and I had back pain. I feared having a C-Section and had already tried acupuncture without results. With Dr. Sloves' treatment, after just 2 adjustments over the course of 3 days, my baby turned and I avoided a Cesarean section! Chiropractic care is excellent for breech turning!” - Jennifer S.

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P. C. 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 203-838-1555

norwalkdrx@yahoo.com CTChiropractic.com • CTSpinalPainCenter.com AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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communityspotlight

Nurturing Passion for Nature

A Conversation with Two Coyotes Wilderness School Executive Director Justin Pegnataro

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ounded in 2000 by Justin Pegnataro, Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing healthy children through building self-awareness, community and connecting people to nature. The organization allows children’s passions to guide the process of learning wilderness survival, wildlife tracking and naturalist skills through games, stories, fun and sensory exploration.

Q: How did you become so passionate about nature, ecology and ecotherapy?

If anyone is to thank for my nature connection it is my mother. When I was a

baby, my mother buried my umbilical cord in the soil. To this day, I still claim it was her loving act that connected me to the soils of Connecticut. I grew up in Woodbridge playing in the maple and hickory forests and swamps behind my house.

As I became a teen, I had a major decision to make: I could go to college and go the same route all my friends were going or I could try and find something more. After a late night conversation with a friend, I decided to become a treasure hunter. I started to practice wilderness survival skills to enable me to travel anywhere in the world. During my studies, I moved into

the forest for six months, living in a wigwam and falling in love with nature.

I also realized that I had found my treasure: a deep passion for connecting people to nature and to their deepest purpose. That’s when I decided to enroll in college and study biology and anthropology to prepare me to share my gift with the world.

Q: Why did you create Two Coyotes Wilderness School?

Two Coyotes is about helping to open people to a deep connection to the earth and to their core gifts and purpose. It is about connecting people to a community filled with love and that

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supports its youth. A place that honors elders and appreciates the wisdom and experiences they have to share with youth. A place where gratitude is an integral component of life; where the world and people are seen as sacred and beautiful.

At first glance, many folks see us as an environmental education organization or similar to the kind of education a nature center provides. And, while those kinds of education are immensely important, our approach is very different. We believe nature is like a mirror for us to look deeply into our self. In one way, she is able to hold and support us in unconditional love, giving us the solid ground to be ourselves fully and the courage to blossom. At other times, nature can help to initiate us into deeper understanding of who we are and what our unique power and gifts are. Our programs help our students to explore the inner and outer wilderness to find their gifts and ultimately bring them to their community. The side effect is that they also happen to learn their frog calls, how to light fires by rubbing sticks together, and know the natural world like their best friend.

Q: What needs to happen to bring more people back to awareness of the natural world in their individual lives?

Nature is a funny thing that we love when we are in it but when we are inside make excuses not to go outside and experience. We forget how amazing it is and how fundamental to our happiness and survival. I think nature has a way of pushing the edges of our comfort zone. It can also be something that gets pushed to the side as our busy schedules don’t have time for it. Coming back to nature is a lot about prioritizing it. We need to relearn and remember how vital it is for our health and experience. The joy of mud between our toes and the smell of wildflowers are sensations that awaken something deep inside us; something we knew instinctively as children but maybe forgot as we grew older.

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

Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose

203-438-7146

452 Main Street, Ridgefield

touchofsedonaridgefield.com

Open Every Day Until 5:30

Q: What would you most like to see change?

I wait for the day that wilderness programs are as ubiquitous as playing on a sports team in the lives of children. With the advent of screens and how busy families are with activities, nature can be an afterthought. I wait for the day that our culture prioritizes the value of nature’s connection in our lives and lifestyle.

Q: What do you most want Natural Awakenings readers to know about Two Coyotes Wilderness School?

We have an exciting array of camp experiences and other nature programs for the whole family, including making fire without matches, scout tracking, a wild edible plant hike, storytelling, nature games, live music, food, nature arts and drumming. Come check us out, get involved and become part of the community.

To learn more about Two Coyotes Wilderness School’s yearround programs and summer camps, visit TwoCoyotes.org.

See ad, page 8.

If you think of your period as a curse – something to bludgeon your way through instead of as sacred time …

If you take pills to get rid of your period for as long as you can ...

If you view menopause with dread – something to be medicated away or suffered through instead of as sacred transition in your life’s journey … then you have disconnected from your womb, blocking your way to giving deeper birth to yourself.

Work with depth psychotherapist and “Midwife to the Soul” Judith Barr to reconnect with your womb and explore the mystery of your own feminine Self.

PO Box 603, Brookfield, CT 06804 • 203-775-5006 JudBarr@JudithBarr.com • www.JudithBarr.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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globalbriefs

Enflamed Water

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

Corporate Climate

Companies Slowly Embrace Sustainability The 2015 State of Green Business report (Tinyurl. com/2015GreenBusinessReport), which assesses the environmental performances of companies worldwide, along with the trends to watch, is produced by GreenBiz, in partnership with Trucost.

Collectively, companies have been nibbling at the edges of challenges such as climate change, food security, ecosystems preservation and resource efficiency. One measure of corporate engagement going forward will be proactive involvement on political issues that could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon and more sustainable economy. It remains to be seen whether companies can afford to sit on the sidelines, letting the political process unfold, or worse, play defense against changes that might roil their status quo.

2015 will be an interesting year on multiple fronts, especially with the launch of the new sustainable development goals at the United Nations (UN) in New York this fall, along with UN climate talks in Paris in December. Both will be tests of corporate engagement and resolve in driving the kinds of change many of their CEOs publicly call for. The reports’ findings of companies’ progress in greenhouse gas and emissions, air pollutants, water use and solid waste production are all leveling off or even declining.

Home Flame Retardants Found in River

Scientists with the Washington Toxics Coalition tested household dust and laundry wastewater from 20 homes in the state’s cities of Longview and Vancouver and took samples of incoming and outgoing flow from two wastewater treatment plants that discharge into the Columbia River, the Northwest’s biggest waterway. They detected flame retardants in all the tests.

The conclusion of the study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, is that flame retardants are sloughing off household products such as couches and TVs and collecting on people’s clothing, washing out in the laundry and passing through wastewater treatment plants into local waterways.

Source: WaToxics.org

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BREAST SCREENING WITHOUT RADIATION 8 Years Earlier Detection vs Mammograms No Compression • FDA Approved

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Stores Filled with Toxic Products HealthyStuff, a project of the Michiganbased Ecology Center, in collaboration with the Campaign for Healthier Solutions (CHS), has released a report, A Day Late and a Dollar Short: Discount Retailers are Falling Behind on Safer Chemicals, about toxic chemicals found in dollar store products.

It includes test results for 164 dollar store products such as toys, jewelry, school supplies and household items and found that 81 percent contained at least one hazardous chemical above a level that generates concern.

The campaign sent a letter to the CEOs of the four largest dollar store chains, including Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, Dollar General and 99 Cents Only, urging them to stop the sale of these unsafe products, especially to communities of low-income and ethnic families that already live in more polluted areas and food deserts, and adopt policies that will instead protect both customers and their own businesses. Combined, these discount chains have annual sales totaling more than $36 billion and operate more stores nationally than Walmart.

The CHS is asking for a comprehensive set of reforms; communities need to let dollar store chains know that they want safer products and join local and national efforts advocating for nontoxic products.

Scroll to Dollar Store Report at Healthy Stuff.org for the complete test results.

Take action at NontoxicDollarStores.org.

DIGITAL INFRARED THERMAL IMAGING

If you always do what interests you, at least one person is pleased. ~Katharine Hepburn

Discover Westbrook Let your child experience the joy and wonder of nature in a safe and loving environment Set on six beautiful acres in West Redding, CT, Westbrook offers Parent-Child and Mixed-Age Kindergarten Programs, Adult Workshops, Playdays and Seasonal Events

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May 2015

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globalbriefs

TUESDAY MAY 12, 2015

Animal Genocide

‘Lethal Control’ Trades Off Species

MOVING FROM SYMPTOMS TO SOLUTIONS

PATIENT SEMINAR & HEALTH FAIR Featuring Lyme expert and bestselling author:

RICHARD I. HOROWITZ, MD Don’t miss the 9th annual patient-focused Lyme disease seminar and health fair presented by Lyme Connection.

1-4pm Cowden Workshop 6pm Health Fair Opens 7pm Evening Program Sponsors include: BugBeWear.com IGeneX, Inc. Master Supplements My Health 1st Urgent Care NutraMedix Select TCS Tick Control System

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Take action at Tinyurl.com/AnimalLiberationFrontCampaign.

Tool Pool

Open to the community.

Free admission.

No registration required.

203-241-2400

Over the next four years, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers will shoot 16,000 double-crested cormorants nesting near the Columbia River, in Oregon, at a cost of $1.5 million a year and eliminate almost 100 sea lions because both feed on endangered salmon and steelhead trout. “If people knew how many animals are killed at taxpayer expense, they’d be horrified,” says Camilla Fox, executive director of Project Coyote, a San Francisco Bay Area nonprofit.

Termed “lethal control”, there’s a growing trend to kill one species to protect another, and not all methods used are humane. In 2012, Dennis Orthmeyer, acting director of California’s Wildlife Services, said, “We pride ourselves on our ability to get it done without many people knowing about it.”

Climate change, reduced habitat and food supplies, and the introduction of non-native species are the result of human interference. “With society’s growing footprint, lethal control can only increase,” observes Michael Scott, a University of Idaho ecologist.

A plan to poison 4,000 ravens will protect greater sage grouse. More mountain lions will be killed to save bighorn sheep. The human rampage goes on, and concerned citizens are advised to urge lawmakers to end lethal control and protect wildlife habitat sustainably.

Instead of buying or renting expensive specialized machinery, farmers in Maine can now join a “lending library” of farm tools on short-term loan by using the Shared-Use Farm Equipment Pool, a partnership between the Maine Farmland Trust (MFT) and the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association. There are already equipment co-ops and joint machinery ownerships around the country; now the sharing economy being established in urban areas seems to be catching on in rural America, too.

For a $100 annual fee, members can gain access to a seedbed cultivator, twoshank sub-soiler, plastic mulch layer, tine weeder, and strip and ridge tillers. The 1,200-pound mulch layer, for instance, retails for more than $2,000. Each piece is undeniably useful, but pricey, especially given the cost per use. Farmers have a three-day window to use the tools.

The pool came about when Mike Gold, an MFT staff member, saw the need to lower costs for both new and seasoned farmers. Currently, most of the tool pool members are newer vegetable farmers, but Gold says there’s appeal for established land stewards, too: “They see the opportunity to use that one piece of equipment that they may only need once a year or once every few years.”

Source: ModernFarmer.com

natural awakenings

Health, Prayer and Healing: Finding the Connection

FREE Seminar with Evan Mehlenbacher • Open to the Public DISCOVER: How prayer that seeks a deeper understanding of the spiritual nature of health can heal the mind and body.

Norwalk Inn & Conference Center • 99 East Ave., Norwalk, CT ( Exit 16 off I 95 )

Thursday, May 14th • 7:30pm – 8:30pm A FREE copy of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,

by Mary Baker Eddy, a textbook on scientific, mental healing, will be given to the first 100 who register.

Pre-registration at www.health-prayer-healing-connection.eventbrite.com is recommended.

Evan Mehlenbacher Shortly after graduating from Stanford University, Evan went into the full-time ministry of healing others through prayer.

He has lectured on the subject of prayer-based healing for over 19 years and has authored dozens of articles on this topic.

Mehlenbacher is a member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship. He travels from his home in Richland, Washington.

This FREE public seminar is sponsored by First Church of Christ, Scientist, Westport and First Church of Christ, Scientist, Darien

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Any questions, please call 203-612-1010 or 203-655-2772

May 2015

27

communityspotlight

Tools for Authentic Living in a Stress-filled World Holistic Psychotherapist Yudit Maros

by Nicole Miale

A

s a teenager in Hungary, Yudit Maros already knew she wanted to be a psychologist when she grew up. Dissuaded at first by cultural pressure from pursuing her goal, she instead obtained degrees in cultural anthropology and French literature. Even then, her true passion showed itself; she did her thesis on authenticity in the writings of Jean-Paul Sartre.

“I am now and have always been fascinated by this concept of authenticity,” Maros says. “So it was only natural that when I did finally become a psychotherapist, my work would bring me around to the very same issue. What authenticity means is being guided from the inside by your own thoughts and feelings instead of external expectations or even your own judgments about what you should do.”

Maros came to the United States in 1986 to work on her doctorate in comparative literature. It was then she was awakened by tragic loss and embarked

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on the path back to psychotherapy. “My mother and advisor passed away within months of each other,” she says. “Everything collapsed for me, personally and professionally. I had to re-evaluate everything. And I went back to the beginning, to what I knew when I was young I really wanted to do.”

She earned her master’s degree at the University of Connecticut and worked as a successful therapist in private practice for many years in northeastern Connecticut. Now relocating to Ridgefield, she released a book earlier this year, Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love, which details the principles of her authenticity process. The book, which Maros calls a “user’s manual for inner guidance,” is the result of seven years of inquiry and notetaking about the process she used in therapy with her clients.

“I knew there must be a pattern to the healing I saw in my patients because people were getting better,” Maros

explains. “I just didn’t know why. So I set out to look for the common denominators, to better understand how I was helping people and what was working.

What I discovered during the seven years of inquiry not only became the basis for the book, but also transformed my practice from being effective but accidental to much more intentional.”

What Maros discovered is that health – physical, emotional, mental, spiritual – boils down to positive selfparenting and an individual’s ability to tune into inner wisdom carried in the body. This ability is instinctive and natural, yet frequently lost or overshadowed by external teachings and factors. Maros explains that society has evolved to the point where basic needs are usually met, but the brain still reacts to situations as if they are emergencies.

This reactivity was useful when war, famine and poverty were the norm, but now it is working against your health.

“When sheer survival is not actually a problem, your brain and cognitive functions become fairly useless,” she says. “Your brain is designed to solve problems. But life is not really a problem, it is something to be experienced, learned from, enjoyed. We ought to reserve the sharp, sophisticated tool that is our brain for the real problems of life. We cannot think our way to happiness and health; we have to feel our way there.”

Maros’ observations with her clients and in her own life suggest that the body knows what we need better than the mind; this is a stark contrast to Western societal teachings but has been acknowledged for centuries in other cultures. “The mind does not know how

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to be truly present,” Maros explains.

“It is always busy looking backward or forward, planning, worrying. Only the body knows how you feel right now in this moment – which is the only moment you have to influence your experience. You cannot think your way through feelings. The body has evolved and can guide you but no one knows how to listen.”

The common denominators Maros found and teaches are four essential steps to be authentic. They are summed up in the acronym ABCD:

method developed by Robert Schwartz, PsyD. This technique is designed to remove the body memory associated with past trauma of any kind.

“You can’t talk yourself out of a trauma memory,” Maros says. “You need a more sophisticated way to extinguish the memory trapped in your body.”

Above all, Maros wants to spread the word about the power and need for each individual to tune into their own being, focusing on feelings and needs. “It is not selfish to focus within,” she says.

“Our culture has it all wrong. Inside is the only true place to find your answers.”

Yudit Maros, LMFT, C.Ht. practices at 100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. She offers workshops and clinics to teach authenticity skills, in addition to offering therapy for individuals and couples.

She can be reached at 203-244-5898 or Info@Center4AuthenticLiving.com. Her book Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love can be purchased at Amazon.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 76.

Nicole Miale is publisher of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Connect with her at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

A: Pay Attention to your body and Accept what sensations you feel without judgment.

B: Breathe into the feeling in your body and use the breath to soothe yourself if you hurt.

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C: Communicate honestly with yourself (your body, not your mind) about how you feel and what you need to feel better.

D: Do the action which fulfills your need and is true to your innermost feelings.

This relatively simple process of tuning in, accepting without judgment, and breathing through the feelings which arise until the action needed becomes clear, has the ability to transform relationships, Maros says. “Everything relates back to the relationship we have with ourselves,” she continues.

“So when we are actively cultivating a better relationship with ourselves, when we take care and parent ourselves properly, other relationships will be healthier too.”

Maros teaches Authenticity Therapy in the United States and Hungary and is founding president of the Authenticity Therapy Association in Hungary, where she spends one month per year. In addition to the authenticity work, Maros works with couples in therapy. The Marriage Rescue program is based on the authenticity approach.

She also specializes in trauma resolution and is the only trainer in this country who can teach the Brief Solution Oriented Trauma Resolution (BSOTR)

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ecotip Raised Right

Organic Flowers Honor Mom and Mother Earth The Mother’s Day tradition of gifting mom with flowers, including such perennial favorites as lilies, orchids, tulips and roses, can be practiced in a sustainable manner. Buying organic varieties protects workers, families and the environment.

Flowers grown with conventional techniques contribute to the contamination of groundwater and streams through fertilizer and pesticide runoff that can also threaten animal species.

Many of the cut flowers are grown in South America, where farms continue to use pesticides that are restricted in the U.S. and cited as highly toxic by the World Health Organization.

GreenAmerica.org provides several helpful tips on bringing joy to mom on her special day in eco-friendly ways:

Grow Your Own. Buy organic bulbs or seeds in consumer seed catalogs and retail racks or online from reputable sources that include SeedsOfChange.com.

Children can then grow their own flowers to make them mean even more.

Tips for natural weed and pest control, environmentally friendly watering, making raised garden beds and more are posted at EarthEasy.com/yard-garden.

Buy Local and Organic. Support local communities and save shipping costs and energy by purchasing chemical-free organic flowers from a local farmers’ market or community supported agriculture. Online retailers like OrganicBouquet.com and LocalHarvest. org/organic-flowers.jsp offer U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified organic flowers.

Ask Local Florists to Go Organic.

Find out if local florists purchase any organic and local flowers, and if not, request that they do so.

30

Fairfield County Edition

Decrease Office Stress by Design

Increase Positivity and Productivity

by Catherine Avery

S

tress is everywhere. Work, home and the economy are just some of the major stressors in our lives.

According to the American Psychological Association’s The Impact of Stress study in 2012, 80 percent of respondents indicate that “their stress level has increased or stayed the same in the past year.” The study found that work is the second producer of stress right behind money for 65 percent of respondents.

Many would agree that stress levels drop the moment you walk in the front door of your home; it is a sanctuary, a place that supports and nurtures. Your home may be personalized with your hobby, your children’s artwork on the fridge, or a yoga or game room. However, offices tend to be forgotten when it comes to design for stress reduction.

Having an office environment that supports you can help alleviate stress levels while on the job.

In feng shui, energy is referred to as qi or chi. The goal of feng shui is to activate the positive chi in your home or office, heal (or cure) the negative chi, and create an environment that supports you in your life goals and dreams.

If you are surrounded by meaningful objects, they will increase your energy in a positive way. If you are buried under piles of paper in a soulless work space, the clutter and the lack of personalization is going to drag you down energetically.

You can bring the home feeling to

natural awakenings

work in small ways. Start with clearing the clutter from your desk. File away your papers and get in the habit of taking the last five minutes of your day to organize your desk for tomorrow.

Add professionally appropriate photos of your family or friends. Create rituals – such as having a cup of tea – that you can touch on when you are feeling stressed.

If you have flexibility in your office layout, face your chair to the entry to your office or cubicle with the wall behind your back. In feng shui, this is your power position, helping you feel supported and in control. Finally, surround yourself with nature. If you are not seated beside a window and aren’t allowed to have plants, bring in a piece of driftwood or a jar of shells, or add a nature painting to the wall.

You spend over half of your waking hours at the office. You deserve to spend that time in a work environment that uplifts your energy and helps you feel productive.

Catherine Avery is a Fairfield Countybased interior designer, writer and presenter who delivers peace, comfort and productivity to her clients. With a focus on Feng Shui, space clearing and personal branding, she works with small to mid-size businesses and sole practitioners to design optimal home and office environments. Learn more and connect with her at Resovate.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

31

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

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30 Days For $39 New Student Special

by Gerry Strauss

F

rom That ‘70s Show to Orange is the New Black, actress Laura Prepon has long been considered by TV audiences to be a welcome image of health. Yet Prepon’s recent discovery that she’d been falling short in nourishing her body as effectively as possible has set in motion a complete redirection of lifestyle, from her diet to fitness routine. Now working on a book about clean living and eating due out next year, Prepon has rededicated herself to educating us just as much as she’s entertained us through the years.

How do you manage to consistently eat local organic food instead of fast food?

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My mother was a gourmet chef and an advocate of organic food, so we always had amazing meals growing up. Eating organic produce that’s in season locally seems to help me assimilate nutrition more readily. Whenever I can, I also try to tap into biodynamic agriculture, which takes an even broader holistic approach to food production and nutrition. I view GMOs [genetically modified foods] as toxic to the system.

As a self-taught chef, I like to cook at least 80 percent of my food at home

natural awakenings

and bring meals to work so I don’t stress about food during the day. It feels good to get people together in the kitchen and I’ve taught friends how to cook healthy foods in simple ways, so they now bring their own meals with them to work. It’s all about preparation, so that you’re not just grabbing something on the run. Knowing what’s going into the food we’re eating is important. photo by Michael Simon

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Why do you include a lot of soup in your diet?

With all of the GMO food sprayed with chemicals in the typical American diet and the other environmental toxins everyone has to deal with, our gut flora, intestines and bodies in general are becoming compromised. Ten years ago, few had even heard of gluten allergies unless you had celiac disease, which was rare even then. Now, everywhere you go, there’s a gluten-free option.

I love eating soup because the healthful ingredients I use are broken down completely, so the body can immediately assimilate needed micronutrients, which help heal us from the inside out. I’m talking about homemade broth from grass-fed beef bones,

“full-on” Western medicine and respect the medical community. Unfortunately, these days, most people are continually medicated and they’re not getting better.

As a society, we tend to just take a drug to handle a symptom instead of addressing the actual cause of the problem.

so you get the marrow; I’m partial to knuckle bones. I always have soup broth in my refrigerator.

What’s key to your ability to naturally stay healthy and fit in the midst of an intense schedule of work and travel?

I love modalities like acupuncture, massage … all of that. I fully believe in keeping energy flowing to benefit the functioning of all our organs.

As school kids, we learn about the circulatory system and central nervous system, but who knows much about the lymphatic system? It’s extremely important, and people are starting to get the idea. Activities like yoga, swimming and bouncing on the trampoline can help.

Do you see society’s penchant for medicating as a way to avoid listening to and addressing our body’s real needs?

I do. That’s why I study Eastern medicine, because I feel that Western medicine treats problems and Eastern medicine prevents problems from happening.

I grew up in a family of doctors and

As a celebrity, do you see yourself as a conduit to facilitate a shift away from unnatural lifestyles?

If I had my life to

live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall. ~Nadine Stair

Yes. The reason I decided to write a book was because I’ve been struggling with a bunch of different ailments in secret for a long time. When I began working with my integrated health coach, Elizabeth Troy, I started to heal for the first time in all the years of reading books on health, diet and fitness, seeing doctors, taking loads of pills and spending crazy amounts of money on all of these activities. I want to help people struggling to regain their health to get answers.

Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.

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RETHINKING BREAST HEALTH Natural ways to keep breasts smooth, pain-free and firm, while reducing the risk of cancer.

by Lisa Marshall

W

e’ve been conditioned to narrowly define breast health in terms of pink ribbon campaigns, cancer awareness marches and cold, steel mammography machines.

Nearly 30 years after anticancer drug maker Imperial Chemical Industries (now AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals) established the first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 1985, many women have come to equate healthy breasts with cancer-free breasts, and assume the most important thing they can do is undergo regular screening.

But amid this chorus, some women’s health advocates are striving to get a different message across: There are a host of steps women can take to not only fend off disease in the future, but keep their breasts in optimal condition today. “We need to change the conversation about our breasts from how to avoid breast cancer and detect it early to how to have healthy breasts and enjoy them,” says Dr. Christiane Northrup, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Yarmouth, Maine, and author of the new book Goddesses Never Age: The Secret Prescription for Radiance, Vitality, and Well-Being.

life-giving milk. “In all these ways, your breasts are deeply connected to your femininity, compassion and sensuality,” says Hawaiian Naturopathic Doctor Laurie Steelsmith, co-author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health. Because breasts are extremely sensitive to hormonal fluctuations throughout the body, they can also serve as a barometer of overall health. “If you’re having chronic breast symptoms, it can be your body’s wisdom saying, ‘Help. Something’s wrong.’ Women need to listen.”

While some premenstrual swelling and tenderness is normal, exaggerated or persistent pain is often a sign of systemic estrogen dominance in relation to progesterone. It’s common in the years leading up to menopause, but can also hint at impaired thyroid function, because low levels of thyroid hormones have been shown to boost estrogen in breast tissue, advises Steelsmith.

Large, fluid-filled cysts or fibrous lumps, while noncancerous, can also be a reflection of overexposure to harmful chemicals and toxin

Healthy Breasts, Healthy Body

In adolescence, breast changes are the first to signal the arrival of womanhood.

When she’s aroused, a woman’s nipples harden and change color. When a woman gives birth, her breasts fill with 34

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

buildup, combined with poor lymph flow, notes Dr. Elizabeth Vaughan, an integrative physician in Greensboro, North Carolina. “If a woman has lumpy, bumpy breasts, they probably contain too many toxins, and those toxins are primarily estrogenic.” Addressing such symptoms is important not only to relieve discomfort, but also because excess estrogen can fuel future cancer risk, says Vaughan.

Any new, suspicious lump should be evaluated by a professional. Also, severe breast tenderness combined with nipple discharge could be a sign of infection or a problem with the pituitary gland, so it should also be checked. But typically, subtle natural healthcare steps can go a long way toward restoring breast wellness.

For nipple tenderness, Steelsmith recommends chaste-tree berry (175 milligrams [mg] of powdered extract or 40 drops daily). The herbal supplement mimics naturally occurring progesterone in the body, helping to counter estrogen dominance. Vitamin E (400 to 800 international units [IU] per day) and evening primrose oil (1,500 mg twice a day) have also been shown to alleviate breast tenderness.

For fibrous or cyst-filled breasts,

Vaughan advises supplementing with iodine (up to 12.5 mg per day via kelp, seaweed or oral tablets) or applying an iodine solution to the breasts at night.

A key constituent of thyroid hormones, iodine helps the liver convert unfriendly forms of estrogen into friendlier forms and flush toxins out of lymph nodes in the breast. Also, steer clear of chocolate and coffee, because caffeine is believed to interact with enzymes in the breast, exaggerating pain and lumpiness.

Also consider ditching the bra, says Vaughan. Brassieres can constrict lymph nodes and hinder blood circulation in breasts, locking toxins in and aggravating fibrocystic symptoms. The link between bras and breast cancer risk remains hotly debated, with one 2014 U.S. National Cancer Institute study of 1,400 women concluding unequivocally that, “There’s no evidence that wearing a bra increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” while smaller studies from the United States, China, Venezuela, Scotland and Africa suggest a link.

Vaughan, the founder of BraFree.org, says the science is compelling enough that she has chosen to keep her own bra use to a minimum and advises her patients to do the same.

“Obviously, there are certain sports where you should wear a sports bra and there are certain dresses that only look right with a bra,” says Vaughan.

At a minimum, avoid wearing a bra to bed and steer clear of underwires and overly tight bras that leave red marks.

“This is not about guilt-tripping women into never wearing a bra. It’s about wearing a bra less.”

Beautiful Breasts Naturally

Too small or too big, lopsided or riddled with stretch marks… it seems almost every woman has a complaint about the appearance of her breasts.

That’s a problem, says Northrup, because, “Healthy breasts are breasts that are loved. We have to stop beating them up.”

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of women getting breast implants for cosmetic reasons ballooned from 212,500 in 2000 to 286,254 in 2014.

Physicians—including Northrup— claim that modern implants don’t, in

the majority of cases, promote disease like older silicone implants did. Yet even plastic surgeons warn that having implants should be fully thought out, and at some point they’ll probably have to come out. “They are manmade devices, and are not intended to be lifelong. At some point, you will probably have to have further surgery,” says Dr. Anureet Bajaj, an Oklahoma City plastic surgeon.

Bajaj notes that implants can rupture, forming scar tissue and lending irregular shape to the breast. Often, as a woman ages and her body changes, the larger breasts she chose in her 20s no longer look right and may cause back and shoulder pain. In some cases, implants can also lead to loss of nipple sensitivity. For these and other reasons, 23,774 women—including actress Melissa Gilbert and model Victoria Beckham—had their implants removed in 2014, often following up with a breast lift (using their own tissue) to restore their shape.

Vaughan sees breast implant removal as a wise and courageous choice to restore optimal breast health. Better yet, don’t get implants in the first place.

“There are a lot of other things you can do to improve the appearance of your breasts,” she advises.

Vaughan recommends breastperking exercises like dumbbell bench presses and flys that tone the pectoral muscles beneath the breasts, making them more resilient and look larger. To prevent or reverse sagging, she again urges women to go bra-free. “We have ligaments in the upper outer quadrant of our breasts called Cooper’s

ligaments, and they’re responsible for holding our breasts up. Just like your muscles atrophy when you put your arm in a sling, your Cooper’s ligaments atrophy if you wear a bra all the time.”

In one unpublished, yet highly publicized 2013 study, French Exercise Physiologist Jean-Denis Rouillon measured the busts of 330 women ages 18 to 35 over a period of 15 years and found those that regularly wore a bra had droopier breasts with lower nipples than those that didn’t. In another, smaller, Japanese study, researchers found that when women stopped wearing a bra for three months, their breasts perked up.

Those worried about stretch marks also have options. They can be a sign of inadequate copper, which promotes collagen integrity and helps skin stretch without injury, says Steelsmith. If rapid weight gain is occurring due to adolescence, pregnancy or for other reasons, try taking copper supplements or applying a topical copper spray on the breasts.

Remember to massage your breasts daily, not only as a “search and destroy mission” for early detection of cancerous lumps, says Northrup, but as a way to get waste products flowing out and loving energy flowing in.

“It concerns me that women feel pressured to think of their breasts as two potentially pre-malignant lesions sitting on their chests,” Northrup says.

“These are organs of nourishment and pleasure for both ourselves and others.

We need to remember that, too.”

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

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Surviving and Thriving Through Breast Cancer Fairfield County Women Share Their Stories

by Beth Leas

T

he statistics are sobering. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer. In 2015, it is estimated that about 40,290 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer will be responsible for one in 36 cancer deaths in women – a ratio exceeded only by lung cancer.

The good news is that early detection through breast cancer screening, increased awareness and improved treatment are believed to be the reasons for the declining death rates from breast cancer since 2000 – after increasing for more than two decades. In recent years, there has been an explosion of life-saving treatment advances, bringing new hope and excitement. There are also many treatments that can complement, increase the effectiveness and decrease the side effects of conventional cancer treatment, which includes radiation, 36

Fairfield County Edition

hormonal (anti-estrogen) therapy and/or chemotherapy.

Holistic and Integrative Approaches to Treatment No alternative medicine treatments have been found to cure breast cancer, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. However, integrative oncology is a relatively new movement and the field is growing, due in part to patient demand for a more holistic approach to care. In addition, it is being driven by the desire of physicians to change their relationships with patients by putting more of an emphasis on healing and less on technical advice.

The Center for Cancer Guidance at The Center for Women’s Health in Stamford was created in response to this need and provides patients with the information required to design their individualized treatment regimen. The Center’s

natural awakenings

founder and director, Joel M. Evans, M.D., takes into account the patient’s medical history and an assessment of the emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a diagnosis of cancer. It is this integrative approach which is credited by many survivors and “thrivers” of breast cancer to be the key to their successful outcomes.

Ann Katz, a registered Svaroopa yoga teacher and Vidya meditation teacher based in Westport, is a breast cancer survivor of 22 years. Her mother’s death and job dissatisfaction led Katz to Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where she discovered yoga and meditation in September 1993. While undergoing fertility treatments several months later, Katz was diagnosed with breast cancer. After the initial opinion of a top oncology physician who recommended a lumpectomy, she sought other opinions; a radical mastectomy was recommended by the other physicians, which she had that December.

Katz assembled her own integrative medical team, consisting of an oncologist, an herbalist and a psychotherapist. “You need to become your own health advocate,” she advises.

She credits yoga, meditation and diet to healing her body, mind and soul.

“I count my blessings every day that I’m healthy. Breast cancer changed my whole life. It required a total mind shift, something I still have to practice, even all these years later…I learned new life skills, which I now teach to my yoga and meditation clients, including those experiencing chronic and life-challenging illnesses.”

Differing mammogram guidelines have led to confusion about when to begin mammogram screenings and how frequently women should repeat the test. The American Cancer Society and other organizations recommend screening begin at 40 and continue annually while the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force suggests starting at age 50 and repeating every two years. When to begin mammogram screening and how often to repeat it is a personal decision.

Jacqueline Conlon, a partner and practicing attorney in a Stamford family law firm, had not gone for an initial mammogram before discovering a

lump in her breast in August 2012. Jacqueline now advocates strongly about early screening, even for those women who are at low risk for breast cancer. Conlon had an oncological breast reduction upon receiving the news that her breast lump was cancerous. Chemotherapy was recommended following surgery because of lymph node involvement. She opted for the most aggressive form of chemotherapy with 28 weeks of treatments, followed by 36 radiation sessions.

During that time, Conlon received regular Reiki treatments, which she credits for reducing the nausea and exhaustion side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. “As a woman who was used to being able to override my body, this was an eye-opening experience. There were days when I didn’t have the energy to read. I learned to give up control and give in to the experience,” Conlon remembers. The emotional component while going through breast cancer treatment is often as challenging as the physical side effects.

For others going through breast cancer treatment, Conlon offers the following advice: “Be positive. Remember you’re not in it alone. Accept all the help that people offer and give them specific tasks such as bringing food or walking the dog. Your diagnosis affects not only you, but everyone close to you. And above all, be kind to yourself.”

Options for Breast Cancer Screening For some women, radiation exposure during breast screening is a concern. Mammograms do expose women to a low dose of radiation, which presents a cumulative risk over time.

Women with breast cancer – who are being treated with radiation in addition to exposure from repeated mammograms – often seek radiation-free alternatives.

Debbie McIntosh, owner of Alba Thermal Imaging, offers digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) in both Norwalk and Stamford. DITI is a clinical imaging technique that records the thermal patterns of the body, which can aid in early detection of disease and pathology. “Many people use DITI in place of or in conjunction with traditional mammography because the procedure is relatively inexpensive, painless, non-invasive, there is no compression, no radiation and can take as little as 15 minutes,” explains McIntosh.

A 2008 clinical trial by New York Presbyterian Hospital–Cornell’s Department of Surgery in New York, New York, concluded that DITI can be a useful adjunctive test in detecting breast cancer with 97 percent sensitivity. It may be especially effective for women under 50 whose denser breast tissue makes it more difficult for mammography to pick up suspect lesions – although anyone can benefit from having a thermographic breast scan. DITI can identify patients with the highest level of risk and increase the overall effectiveness of mammograms and ultrasounds by detecting signs of cancer up to 10 years before traditional mammography. This can boost long-term survival rates by as much as 61 percent.

Ginny T., a holistic health coach in northern Fairfield County, now uses DITI as an indicator of her breast health.

Having been diagnosed twice—in 2001 and again in 2009— with stage 0 breast cancer after mammographies, she had two lumpectomies followed by radiation treatments. She

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refused Tamoxifin both times. “I am not a victim. I have eaten organically for over 20 years and am a big believer in the power of healthy living,” she says.

In January 2015, despite her healthy lifestyle, an MRI showed yet another reoccurrence. “I was terrified!” says Ginny T. She decided to have a DITI scan, which indicated no inflammation. The scan picked up nothing on the breast in question but found very small abnormalities on the opposite breast, which the MRI did not pick up. These results caused her to question the previous two cancer diagnoses. “I decided to refocus intently on healing myself by following an anti-inflammatory diet. Exactly what I tell my clients. I started taking Juice Plus and tinctures in order to step up my breast health. Three months later, I went back to have a mammography and the radiologist saw nothing. He seemed surprised.”

“There is evidence that the use of nutrition, herbs and supplements can increase the effectiveness and decrease the toxicity of traditional cancer treatment,” shares Evans.

“It’s important to achieve normal blood sugar levels and normal body weight through eating a more alkaline, antiinflammatory diet. And a key principle is reducing stress. It has been documented that stress promotes inflammation and inflammation promotes cancer.” The Center for Cancer Guidance encourages patients to be an active participant in their health care; to expand beyond the conventionally accepted dynamic where doctors, drugs, radiation or surgery fight the disease.

India Penney, a holistic nutritional consultant in Westport, is a member of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals and the Society of Integrative Oncology. The first piece of advice she gives someone who is diagnosed with breast cancer is to get multiple opinions, echoing Katz’s experience. “Find someone who thinks the way you do. Go to a cancer center and find specialists that treat your kind of cancer specifically. Find an integrative practitioner to work with – a nutritionist and/or naturopathic physician. Allopathic physicians are not trained extensively in nutrition –they take one class in eight years of education,” Penney says.

“People need to eat well, to support their general health and especially during and after cancer treatment…Our food provides the nutrients our cells need to function properly. Those cells are created and nourished by the foods you eat and the nutrients those foods provide.”

Penney, a cancer survivor herself, supports an integrative approach to health and wellness including nutrition, lifestyle changes to tend to emotional health, eliminating negativity, accepting support and spiritual connection. “My best advice to someone who is newly diagnosed with breast cancer is to trust your instincts; don’t listen to statistics, get your health team in place and then follow their advice.”

There are certain times when it’s crucial to be connected to others. Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is one of them.

And it’s these connections that make the survivors thrive.

Beth Leas is founding director of Total Life Center at 152 East Ave, Norwalk, and a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. She can be reached at 203-856-9566 or BethLeas.com.

Caring for Your Healthy Breasts Natural Strategies to Support and Deepen Self-connection

by Lupo Passero

I

t is time to talk about healthy breasts.

You have them, will develop them or had them at some point, but not enough time is spent discussing how to naturally care for and maintain healthy breasts. It is imperative that you work toward maintaining healthy breasts as well as healthy self-image.

sure define a standard of beauty nearly impossible to meet for most women. It is critical to be aware of and this type of thinking and work to cultivate self-love and acceptance. Remember, the energy you put into your self-care will most certainly be returned to you.

Physical and Emotional Self-Care

Natural Remedies for Healthy Breasts

Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older so prevention and self-care should begin as soon as you begin developing. Daily self-care for your breasts can be quickly incorporated into your morning or evening routine. Partner examinations can also be a beautiful ritual as well. The most common things to pay attention to during self care exams are changes in the color, look or feel of the breast and nipples. Find out what normal is for your body. If your breasts are sensitive or lumpy, figure out if this coincides with your reproductive cycle, which can be quite normal. If you experience unusual swelling, warmth and pain that do not change with your cycles or do not go away, it is a good idea to be checked by a professional. Changes in your breast can be a normal part of your ever-changing body and lumps do not mean you have to be alarmed because most are benign and cyclical.

Always consult a qualified practitioner at the first onset of any signs that feel abnormal to you.

How you talk to yourself about your breasts can be crucial to your overall health. It is important to operate from a place of trust, not fear. With so much to do while juggling multiple roles, it may be rare for you to take time for self-care, but it is necessary. In addition, the daily media and fashion pres-

Nutrition is a good place to start with self-care for healthy breasts. Living in a toxin-plagued world, it is important to incorporate a plethora of antioxidantrich foods into daily meals. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Include a rainbow of colors in meals every day with food such as berries, dark leafy greens and beans. Seaweeds, including hijiki, kelp and arame, are a woman’s best (breast) friend. They provide one of the richest sources of calcium, as do iodine, selenium, zinc, iron, copper and dozens of additional vital nutrients. They can be found in dehydrated form at your local health food store. It is best to store leftovers in glass containers, as foods stored in plastic containers may contain xenoestrogens, believed to mimic estrogen in the body and potentially alter breast cells.

Flower essences can be another addition to your regime for healthy breasts. They are prepared using only fresh flowers combined with pure water and a small amount of brandy as a natural preservative. Crab apple is an excellent essence to work with for helping to overcome body image issues and heal. Rescue Remedy or Five Flower formulas are allies in helping to reduce everyday stress and tension. Essences can be taken as is or incorporated into lotions to be applied topically.

There are a variety of herbs that can be beneficial to maintaining healthy breasts. Dandelion, burdock and milk thistle are liver-supporting herbs that support healthy hormone production. Herbs that work well with the lymphatic system include red root, cleavers, calendula and violet. They can be added to daily teas or as a breast care oil (see below). Chamomile, passionflower, oats and skullcap work on nourishing the nervous system and help maintain healthy stress levels. Consult with your local herbalist or wellness specialist and add a daily tea into your self-care regime with some of the herbs mentioned above.

Lupo Passero is a community herbalist and director of Twin Star Herbal Education in New Milford. She will be hosting an aromatherapy series with many more recipes each Tuesday evening in May. See ad, page 76.

T

he following breast care oil recipe, which incorporates healing herbs and essential oils, can be used topically during your self-care exams. If you have questions on how to perform a self-care exam, consult your wellness provider.

Breast Care Oil Recipe Almond (or avacado) oil Dried calendula flowers Frankincense and helichrysum

essential oil • Using a clean jar, steep ½ cup calendula flower in 1 cup oil of choice and set aside for 2 weeks, shaking daily. When ready, take a second jar and strain the herb-infused oil into a clean jar, separating out and discarding the herb matter. Mix 10 drops of each essential oil in an 8 oz glass bottle and gently shake.

• Calendula flower is anti-inflammatory and quite soothing and healing to the skin. Frankincense essential oil supports the lymphatic system and promotes healthy breasts while the anti-inflammatory helichrysum promotes circulation. The breast care oil can be used daily.

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Strict, standardized interpretation protocols have been established for 15 years to remedy problems with early research.

When considering the early detection of breast cancer, it is also important to look at some common misconceptions about the disease and its screenings.

Breast Cancer is a genetic disease Less than 3 percent of all breast cancers are genetic. The higher risks are related diet, lifestyle, illness, hormone issues, stress and environmental toxins.

Breast cancer is NOT preventable

Misperceptions about Breast Cancer and Early Detection

by Kenneth Hoffman

R

esearch confirms that the best way to prevent cancer is early detection. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 40 and 44. The risk of breast cancer at age 25 is less than one in 19,000; by age 35, the number is one in 217. Yet the statistic people are most familiar with is that one in eight women will eventually develop breast cancer.

Recently, the National Cancer Institute statisticians and concerned organizations such as the American College of Physicians have recognized some of the risks and limitations of mammograms. Mammograms do save lives as many more women are getting screened with mammograms. However, deaths from breast cancer have not decreased appreciably over the last 40 years. It would be more beneficial to find and eliminate any risks before they become diseases. While medical infrared thermal imaging is not a replacement for a mammogram, it is a recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug 40

Fairfield County Edition

Administration (FDA) as an adjunct screening tool for breast cancer prevention. If you are a woman over the age of 30, you should consider this harmless technology as part of your annual disease prevention routine.

Medical infrared thermography is a tool that could detect early changes in the breast that could lead to cancer. If these risks are found early, those potential issues may be reversed by changing your diet, removing toxins and naturally balancing your hormones.

Women have a choice to add a thermogram as an additional screening tool for breast cancer. The following information and research may be helpful when speaking with your doctor: • In 1982, the FDA approved breast thermography as an adjunct diagnostic breast cancer screening procedure. • More than 300,000 women have been included as study participants in extensive research studies conducted since the late 1950s. Some of these large studies have followed participants up to 12 years.

natural awakenings

According to the American Cancer Society, 60 percent of all breast cancers are environmentally related. Since family history comprises such a low percentage of all cancers, there are numerous lifestyle and environmental links to the development of breast cancer. So it follows that in fact there are ways to lower your risk.

A normal mammogram means there is no cancer While the mammogram is still valuable for detecting cancer, it is important to know that most breast cancers take eight to 10 years to develop. That means while you may have had years of negative mammograms, there may be microscopic cells growing that will need to get to a significant size before they will be picked up in your annual screening. With a thermography screening, suspicious changes could be detected much earlier.

Mammograms are harmless Risks from mammography are rarely discussed. A recent 700-page report issued by the National Academy of Science confirms that cumulative exposure to radiation poses serious health risks. Another study published in 2004 showed that the radiation exposure risk from mammograms may be five times higher than previously thought.

This means that annual mammogram screening between ages 40-50-years old may increase one’s risk by 5 percent per screening. Although mammograms save lives, it is also important to evaluate risk versus value.

Medical infrared thermography has no research behind it For over 20 years, medical infrared thermography has been extensively studied with over 800 research citations supporting its use for detection. The results concur that as a screening tool, thermography has more than a 90 percent predictive value of future breast issues. One of the clearest studies tracked a group of 1527 women with initially normal mammograms and physical exams but abnormal thermograms for 12 years. The study was stopped after only five years because 60 percent of the women had already developed malignancies.

Medical infrared thermography should replace the mammogram Mammography and thermography are two different tools. While mammography can evaluate structures in the breast, thermography evaluates the activity that may indicate risks. In some studies, the combination of both

screening tools provided a 99 percent predictive indicator of breast disease.

The FDA has recognized thermography as an adjunct to mammography.

Diagnostically, mammography has its rightful place.

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What to do if you have an abnormal thermogram Heat patterns in a thermographic screening indicate that a woman is at risk for developing breast cancer in the future. By taking immediate action and applying an integrative approach to your medical care, positive changes can be seen in a matter of months. The most important thing to know is that thermograms give early warning signs that can be reversed naturally. The earlier the detection, the easier it is.

Kenneth Hoffman, DAc (RI), LAc, is the director of SOPHIA Natural Health Center in Brookfield and the radio host of The Natural Medicine Connection on 800AM WLAD. For more information, visit SophiaNaturalHealth.com or call 203-740-9300.

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thermographyprofiles SOPHIA Natural Health Center 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 Info@SophiaNaturalHealth.com SophiaNaturalHealth.com

Suzanne T. Pyle, MS,

X To Rays Thermal Imaging, LLC 128 Seabright Ave, Bridgeport 866-XToRays or 203-331-2878 SuzannePyle@prodigy.net • XToRays.com Practice Summary/ Services offered: X To Rays Thermal Imaging, LLC offers the latest in screening for breast cancer, carotid artery disease, thyroid dysfunction, lymph congestion deep vein thrombosis and other medical issues.

Practice Summary/Services offered: Using our blend of Integrative Natural Medicine including Thermography and state of the art technology and testing, you will experience a wellness approach that focuses on the root cause of your health problems.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Our Thermography Technician, Laurie Hoffman’s mission is to educate and help as many people as she can stay healthy using this life-saving Thermography screening technology.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Laurie has been trained and certified as a Thermography Technician by The Institute for the Advancement of Medical Thermology – a national organization.

How long have you been practicing and at what locations?

She has been performing Thermography screenings since 2007 at SOPHIA Natural Health Center in Brookfield, CT What should a client expect from a thermography session with you?

It’s important to us that a patient experience compassion and consideration, as well as a thoroughly professional Thermography screening, a resulting report and follow-up.

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

At SOPHIA Natural Health Center, our medical professionals are specialists in following up and helping with any potential risk factors that may come up as a result from your Thermography screening.

42

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natural awakenings

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Suzanne Pyle started her company because she wanted to offer a safe way to monitor breast and Suzanne Pyle body health. Growing up, she had heavy radiation exposure through numerous x-rays thought necessary because her mother was a TB survivor.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

Suzanne was certified by the American Clinical College of Thermography.

How long have you been practicing and at what locations?

Suzanne has been in business for the last eight years.

Suzanne travels to numerous medical offices throughout Connecticut. She has now trained a nurse practitioner to help with her expanding practice.

What should a client expect from a thermography session with you?

Patients having a thermogram are amazed at the ease and comfort of the whole experience. There is no compresson, no radiation. After the scans are taken, they are sent through an intranet to fully trained, board-certified M.D.s. The results are usually back within 48 hours.

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

Suzanne emphasizes that thermograms do not replace mammograms, but they offer earlier warning signs. In these cases, thermograms help women become aware of breast conditions that can be changed through a healthier life style.

Suzanne likes to tell women, “Think beyond Pink!”

Are you drawn to healing yourself and others?

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Edible Foraging in Connecticut

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674

The Ultimate in Sustainable Nutrition

by The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition

S

pring is a wonderful time to get out into the woods, meadows, streams and gardens to find wild nutritious edibles. Wild food is available yearround, but we’ll leave the other seasons for future articles. Local wild plants can be used as sustainable, nutrient-dense food sources, kitchen medicine and amendments for your gardens. Some of these plants are considered invasive species, others are prolific weeds. Then there are those, that are on the “to watch list” because of over-harvesting.

“When beginning to forage, it’s important that folks begin to learn ethical, sustainable methods to ensure that we maintain strong local plant biodiversity for generations to come,” says Joan Palmer, Director of The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) in Connecticut.

Palmer and her staff of educators at TIOSN compiled their knowledge of local wild edibles as an overview to prepare interested foragers for spring.

Invasive Plants

Some local invasive plants hold great potential as wild foraged food or medicine. These include garlic mustard 44

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natural awakenings

(Alliaria petiolata) and autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata).

All parts of garlic mustard, an invasive cruciferous plant, are edible.

The leaves and tender flower buds are a delicious spring green that can be added to salads, cooked into soups or made into pesto. The seeds are a substitute for mustard seeds and the spicy root can be grated and made into mock horseradish. Filled with cancer preventive compounds such as sulfurophane, this plant is nutritious and tasty.

“We encourage people to pull garlic mustard, but rather than discarding it find delicious ways to eat it. It is part of sustainable nutrition and a respectful way to harvest,” said Alison Birks, science director at TIOSN.

As an invasive shrub, autumn olive yields red and orange-speckled berries that are tart-sweet and make delicious jam, fruit leather and juice. “Rich in lycopene and other carotenoids, this invasive species could easily be called our own ‘super food’”. She adds that autumn olive is so common in this region that most landowners have some growing on or near their property.

“This past year was especially pro-

lific for autumn olive. These are very astringent berries that make your mouth pucker, but this year was different. These beautiful berries were bigger and definitely sweeter than in the past,” said Palmer. “Not only did they make delicious fruit leather, but they were sweet enough to enjoy right from the branch.”

Prolific Weeds

These plants grow readily in the Connecticut region but do not meet the standards of invasive. A favorite prolific weed is stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).

Stinging nettle loves to grow around the rich soil of manure and compost piles. It is another “super food” in the region with a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial compounds. Begin harvesting, cooking, making tea and dehydrating it for next winter as early as possible in the spring.

“Nettle is a tenacious and abundant weed with so many uses,” said Palmer. “It is one of our very favorite plants, not only because it makes delicious tea and soup and has a long list of health benefits; it’s also useful in the garden.”

A soil and outside consultant, Nigel Palmer, ferments nettle and other nutrient-dense herbs and wild plants to make soil amendments. “These plants are a local, sustainable source available to remineralize our depleted soils and to help us to grow more nutrient rich foods,” said Nigel.

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To Watch List

According to United Plant Savers, (UnitedPlantSavers.org), plants on the “To Watch List” are ones that are currently in decline due to expanding popularity and shrinking habitat and range. A plant recently added to this list is the ramp (Allium tricoccum).

Ramps, also known as wild leeks, are a delicious and popular plant. The plant has become synonymous with spring foraging in this region. Ramps with their pungent onion-garlic flavor, are a delicacy now found on menus of many top restaurants. They can be roasted, sautéed or even eaten raw. Unfortunately, they are so coveted and heavily harvested that they have now been placed on the “to watch list.” When harvesting, it is recommended that only a portion of the greens from the top of the plant be taken. Leaving some of the greens and the perennial bulb allow the ramp to continue producing and spreading.

“You should never take more than 10 percent of a stand of plants to ensure their vigor and continuous growth year after year,” says Birks. “And never take anything if there are less than ten healthy plants.”

Go out and explore those wild places around you. Learn how to safely, sustainably and ethically forage for delicious edibles and wild medicine. You are today’s guardians of the wild for tomorrow’s generations.

To learn more about sustainable nutrition, foraging, cooking, gardening, kitchen medicine and more, check out the curriculum at the Institute of Sustainable Nutrition. Visit TIOSN.com or call 860-764-9070. See ad on page 33.

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communityspotlight

Making Healthy Food with No Compromise A Conversation with Rex Bobi, of SAVOR Healthy Organic Q: What led you to understanding the importance of fresh, healthy food and created the passion you have for it?

My wife, Val, and I grew up in farming and gardening families back in Kosovo; almost everyone grows their own fresh fruits and vegetables, tends to their own animals – cows, goats, sheep, horses, chickens and more. So we were exposed from an early age to all-organic food grown using animal manure as fertilizer in home gardens. We simply didn’t know you were supposed to eat any other way.

As we matured, traveled around Europe and then came to America – I came in the mid 1980’s and my wife came in 2004 – we came to the realization that there are “other ways” people eat. We love America. We love a multicultural society with so much art and music; we integrated ourselves with ease. However, we couldn’t adapt to the mass-produced, highly processed way of eating. Luckily, I love cooking, reading and studying about nutrition. I never forgot helping my mom in her garden, watching her cook us fresh garden vegetables, bringing us freshly made yogurt or preparing scrambled eggs for us.. It just tasted 46

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so much better, it smelled better, and we felt so good afterwards. The love of cooking healthy never went away from childhood to adulthood. It stayed with me and it grew on me.

Q: What brought you to Norwalk to open SAVOR?

One day as I prepared a delicious healthy meal and we sat at our kitchen table, I asked my wife if both of us could open a little store to offer others what we eat. Her reply was a very long hug and nonstop kisses. I will never forget that moment.

One day, we came from the Hudson Valley to visit a friend in Norwalk and drove down Main Avenue. I saw a “For Rent” sign in one of the store windows. It was right after the crash of the economy in 2008 and everybody was still reeling – including us with very little money in our pocket. But nothing could stop us. We were both on a mission.

Q: Who were some of your early local connections and where are your ingredients sourced now?

Nancy Grant and her husband, Tom, from Weston invited us to see their small organic farm in back of their

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house, full of fruits and fresh vegetables. It was amazing. We also got to meet one of the sales reps from Albert’s Organics, operating out of Dayville, Connecticut. They are very dependable and now deliver twice a week year-round. We have been happy with their product and the services they provide to us. The United Federation of Independent Growers delivers all our bulk products like organic multigrain flour, organic canned goods, nuts, seeds, dairy, proteins and more.

Q: What kind of reaction did you get from friends and family when you unveiled your menu for SAVOR?

As we got closer to the opening date, some of the people that knew us got to see the menu my wife and I built. They flipped out and called us crazy. “No white flour pizza?” they said. “You’ll never survive on very thin multigrain only as a main crust! Who does that?

You’ll never make it.

Offering a no-grain pizza crust made with almond and flaxseed, gluten-free and lots of dairy-free options, organic this, organic that… how many people do you think you’ll find that eat

healthy like this?” They said we’d be better off to offer more of the regular type of pizzas people were familiar with and a little bit of what we eat. “You’d have a better chance of surviving,” they said.

I thanked them for their candor and I asked them to listen to my answer. “I will never make nor serve something that I don’t eat; I will always put health before money, and never, never the other way around.”

Five years later, after seeing zero compromises in our menu and seeing our success, the skeptics have come around to see there are plenty of educated and health conscious customers who don’t care for mediocre, substandard food, but certainly care for high quality, fresh organic fruits, veggies, meats and more.

Q: Who is the typical SAVOR customer?

The majority of our patrons are beautiful women who visit us on a weekly basis and to whom I’m forever grateful. They are the ones who are not only helping us stay in business but have even given us a good chance of expanding throughout Fairfield County and wider. They are the ones who have turned their husbands, families and friends on to eating like they do. They’re the ones who remind me of my mother, who truly care for the health of their own and one another.

They are the ones who are leading us all on a better, happier and healthier path. They are the ones my wife and I owe our lives to.

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

Q: What else would you like Natural Awakenings readers to know?

I owe my life to my darling, beautiful wife Val, without whom none of this could have happened, with whom I’ve been married for 10 beautiful years. It still feels like we’ve just gotten married. I work with her about 90 hours per week and we still go home laughing and singing. I eat three to five meals with her each day and savor every bite and will continue to do so for years to come.

Please do the same, each of you. You know you deserve nothing but the best.

SAVOR is located at 430 Main Ave (Rte 7), Norwalk.

Open Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm. Orders may be placed over the phone at 203-939-1666 or online at SAVORHealthyPizza.com. See ad, page 3.

1084 Post Road, Darien • 24 Railroad Place, Westport www.olivettect.com • (203) 621-0643

VEGAN CHOCOLATE BANANA PUDDING (Serves 6)

No one will guess that this rich, dark chocolate pudding counts tofu as its secret ingredient. Sweetened with dates and ripe bananas, this decadent pudding tastes even better topped with fresh berries, sliced apples or extra diced banana.

INGERDIENTS: 6 pitted dates, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes 4 large bananas, broken into chunks 1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu, drained 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

METHOD: • Drain dates, discarding soaking liquid, and squeeze out excess water. Transfer dates to a food processor or blender. Add bananas, tofu, cocoa powder, vanilla and cinnamon and blend until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Pudding will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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May 2015

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Coming to Natural Awakenings Fairfield County

healingways

Giving Birth Naturally

Masters of Yoga & Fitness

Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention

by Meredith Montgomery

L The yoga and fitness community in Fairfield County has never been more vibrant!

To provide studios with new ways to connect with our loyal and engaged readers, we’re launching a NEW monthly advertising page devoted to the amazing yoga and fitness studios in Fairfield County!

Special ad sizes, rates, and packages will be available for 6 and 12 month contract terms. These will include unique editorial marketing opportunities to showcase each studio’s business and approach.

If you own a yoga or fitness studio in Fairfield County, contact your sales representative or the main office TODAY to find out how you can be featured on the new Masters of Yoga & Fitness page!

FFCAdvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsmag.com

203-885-4674 48

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abor and delivery midwives attend less Most births is a natural process than 8 percent of births that can be enjoyed. should be viewed here, and fewer than 1 “It’s not something percent occur outside a as a natural life to be afraid of,” says hospital. process instead Mel Campbell, author Natural labor and of The Yoga of Pregnancy. of a potential delivery in a hospital is “It’s a wonderful and possible, but, “It’s hard beautiful experience. We medical emergency. to have an unmedicated need to remember that birth in many hospitals ~Abby Epstein, The the body is designed for if you don’t know your Business of Being Born rights, understand your giving birth.”

Natural childbirth physiology and have a uses few or no artificial medical interdoula by your side helping you avoid ventions such as drugs, continuous unnecessary interventions,” says Ina fetal monitoring, forceps delivery or May Gaskin, a pioneering midwife and episiotomies (cuts to enlarge the vaginal author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. opening). According to the U.S. Centers Key factors to discuss include fetal for Disease Control (CDC), 32.7 percent monitoring, intravenous tubes and the of deliveries were by Cesarean section option to eat or drink during labor. in 2013—most performed in situations where a vaginal birth would have posed Benefits of Home Births a relatively low risk to the health of Women choose home births and mother and child. Entirely natural child- homey birthing centers because they birth is now rare here compared with labor there more comfortably, feel more other countries, but that wasn’t always in control of the process and can more the case. easily avoid interventions. Many moms

In 1900, 95 percent of all U.S. seek out a midwife’s services because births took place in the home; when they don’t want to repeat the convenmore moved to hospitals here in the tional hospital experience that accomearly 20th century, midwives still panied their first baby’s arrival. typically handled the delivery in other

When actress Ricki Lake gave countries, sometimes without a doctor birth to her second child in her home present. In America, obstetrics became bathtub with the assistance of a mida profession and a doctor-attended birth wife, she felt empowered by doing it in a hospital was promoted as a safer on her own terms. “Giving birth wasn’t alternative. By 1938, half of domestic an illness, something that needed to be births took place in hospitals, and by numbed. It was something to be experi1960 it rose to 97 percent. Currently, enced,” she says.

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When women let their bodies naturally lead, labor can last as little as 20 minutes or as long as two weeks, and the spectrum of pain intensity is equally broad. A healthy prenatal lifestyle that prepares a mom-to-be for a natural physical, emotional and spiritual experience of childbirth is highly beneficial.

Compassionate Self-Care

“Pregnancy’s not the time to overexert yourself; let go of the temptation to overachieve and instead practice breathing and mindfulness,” advises Campbell. “If you’re experiencing morning sickness, try to embrace it and how it serves you. By doing so, you’ll be more in tune with your body. These lessons are gifts you can take with you into labor.”

She reminds women that the baby is always getting nourishment from all that mom eats and breathes in, and also feeds off of her feelings and emotions. “The more we can feel at peace with ourselves and incorporate the baby into our being, the more we feel a connection and union,” she says.

“It’s vital that you let your body’s innate wisdom be your guide and respect any cues it may give.”

Campbell guides expectant mothers through a yoga practice that embraces the changes occurring each trimester.

For example, a more physical practice in the second trimester utilizes the surge of energy to build stamina and strength, while opening the heart, hips and pelvis.

Complementary relaxation techniques for labor include breathing practices, visualization, meditation and massage.

When a mother isn’t connected to monitors and tubes, she’s free to experiment with positions and props such as balls, bars and pillows, plus a warm shower or bath. If a hospital birth is planned, Gaskin notes that labor often slows once a woman leaves the comfort of home, and recommends laboring at home as long as possible.

There is no way to predict the course of labor and delivery when women let nature take the lead. Campbell, a mother of three, says, “I tried to focus on the intention of what I wanted for my birthing experience, while also surrendering expectations, knowing that I would have whatever type of birth I was supposed to have.” She adds, “The breath is the most important thing—it keeps us in the moment, helps us to relax and supports us through labor.”

While the home birth option is important to America’s new generation of trailblazing women, it’s also significant on a macro level. Gaskin explains, “It’s hard for staff to change routine practices in hospitals but home births make innovation possible.” Home births demonstrated that women don’t require routine episiotomies and have shown how maternal mobility and position changes can help labor progress and free badly stuck babies (earlier methods often injured mother and child).

Gaskin has found, “Wherever and however you decide to give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, mind, body and spirit for the rest of your life. No one should have a home birth who doesn’t want one, but it must be one of the choices.”

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

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Chiropractic Care for Better Pregnancy and Birth Experience

by Risa Sloves

D

iscovering the wonderful news of a pregnancy is both a time of joy and anxiety. The body will begin to undergo many profound transformations ranging from hormonal, biomechanical and increased nutritional demands to physical and psychological changes. Unfortunately, there may often be some unpleasant, uncomfortable changes that go along with it – whether it is morning sickness, fatigue, low back pain, sciatica, headaches or carpal tunnel syndrome. Many pregnant women think twice about taking any medication to help alleviate these discomforts.

Chiropractic care can be used as a powerful, safe, drug-free solution for these pregnancy-related conditions.

There are chiropractic physicians who have advanced training, including a three-year post-doctorate degree to specialize in maternity and pediatric care.

This degree is known as a Diplomate of the International Council on Chiropractic Pediatrics (DICCP).

How can chiropractic care impact pregnancy? It is important for the nervous system to operate at 100 percent for optimal health as the brain and

nervous system control the function of every cell, tissue and organ of the mother’s body. The spine protects the spinal cord; when a spinal bone shifts out of normal alignment, it may produce abnormal motion and damaging pressure on spinal nerves. This condition is known as vertebral subluxation; if present, it may interrupt the vital nerve flow within the mother’s body and, subsequently, to the unborn baby.

Chiropractic care corrects subluxations which interfere with normal body function. Subluxations are an inherent part of pregnancy as the dynamics of the spine and pelvis change dramatically and the potential for damage to the musculoskeletal system is great. When a woman is pregnant, her growing uterus produces a shift in her center of gravity.

Along with the hormonal changes that occur, her posture becomes unstable and, as a result, stresses her joints, nerves, muscles, and connective tissue.

Not only has chiropractic care been proven effective in eliminating pregnancy-related symptoms, but expectant mothers who receive chiropractic care are less likely to suffer from

back pain during labor. Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy have also been shown to lessen labor pain; shorten the duration of labor; reduce the number of breach presentations, cesarean section rates and labor interventions, such as induction; and promote a quicker recovery.

As important as it is to detect and correct spinal subluxations during pregnancy, it is just as important to continue to focus on prevention during the postpartum period. After the birth, improvement in spinal function and structure is generally attributed to the loss of weight and recovery of ligaments and muscle to their normal tensile strength. Several months may elapse before these fibrous structures recover; if the bones these ligaments and muscles support are still misaligned, subluxation may be a longlasting problem.

To avoid postpartum back pain, prevent subluxations with chiropractic checkups. Learn rehabilitative spinal and abdominal strengthening exercises and proper back-safe baby lifting and carrying techniques from a chiropractor. It is also important to ensure that the mother is positioned properly while nursing her newborn to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the spine.

Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center Discover the Power Within You at Unity Center

Risa Sloves, DC is one of a small group of chiropractic physicians in Connecticut who is board certified in chiropractic pediatrics and maternity care. She practices with her husband, Dr. Mark Joachim, at their office, Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C., 156 East Ave, Norwalk.

Sloves can be reached at 203-838-1555.

CTChiropractic.com See ad, page 21.

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

We believe that God is good and so are we. We teach practical spirituality to make everday living better. We feel this is how we can make a difference in the world.

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

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

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May 2015

51

The Skinny on Non-invasive Fat and Weight Loss Techniques

by Patricia Staino

H

umans have long wished for a magic pill they could swallow to achieve the perfect body without diet and exercise.

Recently, a number of non-invasive techniques have become available to people who want to tone up their problem areas, as well as for those who want to lose weight and develop better habits to sustain the weight loss.

With the increasing number of methods available, questions arise as to their effectiveness and safety.

CoolSculpting

There are a number of non-surgical liposuction methods that use techniques such as lasers, ultrasound, radio frequency and, in the case of CoolSculpting, cold.

CoolSculpting technology delivers precisely controlled cooling through a paddle applied directly to the skin to target the fat cells underneath. The treated fat cells are frozen and die.

Following the treatment, over time the body naturally processes the fat and 52

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eliminates these dead cells permanently.

The process was discovered by Harvard University scientists Dieter Manstein, M.D., and R. Rox Anderson, M.D., who observed that some children got dimples due to eating popsicles.

The idea that cold can selectively affect and eliminate fat cells without damaging the surrounding tissue drove the development of cryolipolysis, the science on which the CoolSculpting procedure is based.

According to the machine manufacturer, patients may experience deep pulling, tugging, pinching, numbness or discomfort during the procedure.

Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary numbness, redness, swelling, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging and pain.

Lauren Levy, the marketing director for Versailles Spa in Darien, recently underwent the procedure on her inner thighs. The slight discomfort at the start of the procedure doesn’t last long, she says. Following her treatment, she felt no worse than she did after a hard

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pilates class. “CoolSculpting sells itself.

It’s what men and women have been dreaming of for time immemorial—no diet, no exercise, no downtime,” she states.

The average patient needs just one treatment to the specified area. Each treatment is clinically proven to reduce fat cells in the treated area by 20 to 25 percent. Patients will start seeing results about three weeks after the treatment.

The area will continue to shrink for about three months.

“This is the gold standard in nonsurgical body sculpting. It is based on science that has been clinically proven, it’s cleared by the FDA, and it works,” says Levy.

CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss technique, but a body-contouring procedure. As such, it is not an option for every patient who seeks a consultation.

The procedure is for patients looking to get rid of spots of stubborn fat they can’t lose through diet and exercise – not for those that want to achieve significant weight loss.

Lipo-Light

Sometimes confused with laser liposuction (one method of which is called Lipo-Lite) invasive, Lipo-Light is a relatively new method that uses LED lights.

According to the machine’s manufacturer, the heat from the LED lights causes the fat cell membranes to temporarily alter the permeability of the cell. This brief change allows the fat to seep into the interstitial space where it is processed by the lymphatic system. Once broken down in the blood stream, some of the fat will be used as fuel by the body; what is not consumed as energy will reach the liver where it will either be oxidized or re-processed for storage. It is unknown how much gets oxidized versus restored.

Between four and eight treatment pads are placed against the skin of the treatment area. The procedure takes up to 20 minutes. The recommended number of treatments is two per week, completing a full course over a four-week period, according to the manufacturer.

Patients are expected to exercise immediately following the treatment, in order to burn the energy in the body that the

dispersed fat has created. Patients see instant results, which multiple providers claim are permanent.

“With Lipo-Light, you are instantly motivated, you see immediate results, and it will stay that way if you eat right and exercise,” said Diane Bahr-Groth, of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center in Stamford. She offers LipoLight to her patients and has used the method herself.

Like CoolSculpting, the goal of Lipo-Light is body contouring, not weight loss. The manufacturer says a patient can lose two to six inches over the course of treatment; Bahr-Groth has lost three inches from her waist after using the machine four times.

Patients need to be fairly healthy to use Lipo-Light; those with diabetes, HIV, thyroid issues and cancer should not undergo this treatment.

Also, note that the procedure is not FDA-cleared. This is not necessarily because the process isn’t safe but, according to the FDA website, LED lights are not the same as lasers and therefore are covered by a different set of standards than those of the FDA.

Acu-Thin

The Acu-Thin program is meant for the patient who seeks weight loss. It uses auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture) to decrease cravings and appetite. A number of studies have found ariculotherapy is effective for weight loss and results can be achieved with or without needles. The needles or pads stimulate the vagal nerve in the ear, which raises serotonin levels. This can help tone the smooth muscle of the stomach, which results in appetite suppression.

Patrick Guerin, DC, of Westport Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Westport, says patients will notice a difference within 24 hours of the first treatment. During the weekly follow-up office visits, the doctor applies AcuThin Pressure Point Patches to maintain the pressure on the ear points until the next visit. To reinforce the effects, the patient is given an Acu-Thin Pen – a piezo electric device, which emits a small charge to stimulate the ear points and allows for at-home “touch-ups” between appointments.

Guerin offers a personalized program, which includes herbal and

meal supplements that help patients lose weight without hunger, cravings or calorie counting.

“Acupuncturists have known for many years that there are specific points in the human ear that can be stimulated to help dramatically control various addictive behaviors,” he says.

“These treatments are well documented and are in use in clinics throughout the world to aid recovery from all sorts of addictions by relieving cravings.”

Patients can expect to lose one to two pounds per week.

“There are no side effects, only side benefits,” Guerin explains. “Patients also often notice less anxiety and stress and more serenity during the process of weight loss. It is true weight loss without diet, drugs or exercise.”

Virtual Gastric Band

While Mind-Body Transformation offers Lipo-Light to patients as part of its mission to empower clients, the main focus of Bahr-Groth’s practice is hypnosis.

She is a registered consulting hypnotist with more than 23 years of experience in mind-body therapy.

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May 2015

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While she offers a traditional program for weight loss, she is also certified in the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Program. Developed in England, the method is an alternative to placement of a gastric band around a patient’s stomach, which carries the typical risks and discomfort of surgery and can result in side effects such as regurgitation of food. The virtual gastric band eliminates these issues.

Bahr-Groth is one of the first hypnotists in the United States trained in the method. With the Virtual Gastric Band method, she says clients have an average weight loss of seven pounds in the first week, followed by a loss of one to two pounds weekly after that. With a 95 percent success rate, her patients lose weight naturally, without following a diet plan.

“It changes people’s patterns and habits, and that’s what people want; they want to be more in control,” she says.

The process starts with thought field therapy – a system that integrates the meridian system as well as applied kinesiology – to discover the emotional root of a patient’s overeating. Bahr-Groth

then takes the patient under hypnosis through the “surgical” procedure; after the session, the patient subconsciously believes she has a gastric band in place.

From then on, she will eat smaller portions and make healthier choices because the brain thinks the body is physically incapable of doing otherwise.

Unlike CoolSculpting or Lipo-Light, hypnosis can achieve significant weight loss and help patients make changes in their eating and exercise habits.

Although they are still significantly cheaper than traditional liposuction, none of these options are considered cheap. CoolSculpting costs around $600 to $800 per session (although often only one session is needed). The fees for Lipo-Light are approximately $150 to $200 per session with multiple sessions required. Hypnosis can run $100 to $300 per session; multiple sessions are needed for weight loss issues.

Patricia Staino is a freelance writer living in Holly Springs, NC, who spends her free time teetering in tree pose and sneaking off to read. She can be reached at PatriciaStaino@gmail.com.

LOCAL RESOURCES CoolSculpting Greenwich Medical Spa 1285 E. Putnam Ave, Riverside 203-637-0662 GreenwichMedicalSpa.com Versailles Medical Spa 106 Noroton Ave, Darien 203-321-8463 VersaillesMedicalSpa.com

Hypnosis, Virtual Gastric Band, Lipo-Light Mind Body Transformation Hypnosis Center 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

Acu-Thin, Lipo-Light Westport Chiropractic and Acupuncture 256 Post Rd East, Westport 203-227-4474 WestportChiropractic.com

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tyrant, masterfully pushing all of your buttons.

If you spend this entire stage unconsciously spewing out anger at the other person, you miss the lessons. Pay some attention to the things that trigger you; watch your emotions.

Note: If the feelings become too powerful, give yourself the compassion to leave it alone for a while and move back into the anger or any other stage – this is not about being perfect, it is about being fully human, alive and awake throughout this journey. Also no one consciously asks for, or deserves, an abusive situation. If you are in one, leave, get help and be strong.

BARGAINING

Divorce as an Initiation Understanding the Five Stages of Divorce

by Larry Ford

I

n 1969, Swiss psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross created the five stages of grief theory from her work dealing with terminally ill patients. Her discovery gave a framework to help people understand what is happening while they are going through their loss.

Divorce can be a form of a death with its own stages of grief. Based on Kübler-Ross’s work, a new model has been adapted to empower people emerging from the difficulties of a divorce.

DENIAL

It has been said that denial is a human’s most predictable emotion.

Divorce awakens fears and insecurities, as well as potential. These thoughts and feelings can be painful and, for human beings, the natural, unconscious response is to avoid pain. Consequently, you might make up stories in your mind and create a false reality that can be perceived as preferable to the one

that you are in – whether it is “maybe I should just stick it out” or “who am I to think I deserve better?”

Denial is a natural stage of the separation process; with awareness of being in the midst of this stage, it is possible to avoid “buying in” to the self-told tall tales.

ANGER

This is the place where denial meets reality head on. The emotions rise and blame begins, adding up all of the terrible things about your partner, some of which may have been internalized over the years.

Releasing anger in a healthy way is beneficial and a natural part of this process; in order to get the most out of this stage, try viewing it from a larger perspective. From this place, it is easier to embrace the idea that you attract your partner for a reason – they can be a powerful teacher. The shamans often refer to this type of teacher as a petty

Who gets the house? Who gets the money? What about the kids? This is the place where you use things of value against the other partner. This can be a dangerous and costly stage if not managed well. When you get caught up in the fight, it can keep you in this bargaining stage for a prolonged period of time – resulting in financial and emotional costs.

This is a time to have both feet firmly rooted on the ground because the financial decisions you are about to make will have long lasting results.

FIVE RULES OF BARGAINING:

Know your balance sheet: Not all assets are created equal. You need to understand the type of assets you have to avoid surprises down the road. In many divorces, the two largest assets are the home and the retirement accounts.

Don’t accept splitting one for the other without addressing the tax consequences and your liquidity needs. This is just one example of a myriad of asset types to understand.

Consider taxes: Income taxes play a big part in most divorces. Alimony payments you receive are considered taxable income. Child support payments are not. How will taxes impact your net cash flow? Who should claim the dependents? Are there any tax carry forwards from prior years to divide?

Plan ahead: What will your postdivorce financial life look like? Do you know what your cash flow need

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will be? Will there be enough after-tax income to meet that need? Having these answers will help you negotiate for the right amount of support (if you need it) and give you peace of mind knowing what lifestyle you can afford after the divorce.

Consider credit issues: Do you have credit cards in your name? If not, and you are removed as an authorized user, your credit score will take a hit and make it more difficult for you to obtain your own credit cards and loans. If you don’t have your own card, apply before the divorce is final.

Investments: Know where your investments are and how they are allocated. Find a financial advisor who has deep experience not only in asset management but also in working with clients going through a divorce.

LOST/DEPRESSED

All of the noise and drama and fighting that kept you distracted has gone away. You find yourself in the middle of your life in a dark place that stirs up any remaining demons. You are lost in the depth of your initiation called divorce.

When you are in the middle of your divorce, it is hard to see that it is preparing you for something greater but being lost is the point of an initiation - to lose your former self so you can find your way to your authentic self. They rip you apart like the god Kali in a wrathful, relentless, loving way with only one goal in mind – to break you down so you can be rebuilt.

When you feel lost or depressed don’t confuse it as a weakness or as a permanent condition…its OK to be lost at this time, trust in the process.

ACCEPTANCE

This final stage of acceptance is where you move on with your life. You emerge as a different person, transformed and healed from old wounds and your core life lessons.

Stay aware and awake. Be careful of what you attract as you re-enter into the new reality. If you see yourself attracting the same type of “teacher,” it is a sign you may need to do some more inner work.

Mindfully attract a team of specialized experts in the field of divorce matters to help guide you through these times – an attorney, accountant, financial advisor, mediator, family/ alternative therapist.

Larry Ford is an author, syndicated columnist, speaker, teacher, financial advisor at Conscious Capital Wealth Management (CCWM), and consultant to the financial industry. He has advised thousands of people with both their finances and their spirit. Mr. Ford was dubbed the “Shaman of Wall Street” by the Washington Post, The Economist Magazine referred to Lawrence as a man of “two worlds”, NPR named him The Finance Guru, and the Retirement Income Journal recently called him The Spiritual Advisor.

Based out of CCWM’s Westport office, William Donaldson, CFP, is a divorce finance expert and a divorce taxation speaker. They can be reached at LFord@ConsciousCapitalWM.com, 860-659-8299 or LarryFord.org.

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womenswellnessprofiles Brenda L. Story

100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-948-0841 SoaringHawk.BrendaS@gmail.com Practice Summary/ Wellness services offered: Gentle, effective, private energy healing sessions help clients reach their individual health and wellness goals. Reiki, Karuna Reiki, and Integrative Energy Therapy and spiritual inquiry classes are regularly available.

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

A personal lifelong desire to Brenda Story discover healthier, more natural ways of thriving in our stressful culture, plus the joy of helping empower others to heal their body, mind and spirit.

What training and/or certifications do you have/ How long have you been in practice?

Practicing since 2002, I am a certified Reiki Master Teacher, Integrated Energy Therapy Master Instructor, Karuna Reiki Master, Crystal Reiki Practitioner and Sacred Childbirth with Reiki ™ Practitioner.

Do you have a particular specialty or niche?

Empowering women to honor and to nurture themselves and their loved ones. Supporting couples’ childbirth and childrearing choices, and helping families heal by teaching Reiki and effective communication skills.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you?

Sessions are designed specifically to honor the needs of each client. Gentle, non-invasive hand placements induce a feeling of well-being that aids in bringing peace, clarity and renewed energy.

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

My healing practice centers on the principles of integrity, acceptance, compassion and loving kindness. While offering supportive healing services, I honor each individual’s sacred innate ability to self-heal.

Beth Leas

Norwalk, New Canaan and Ridgefield locations 203-856-9566 Beth@BethLeas.com BethLeas.com Practice Summary/ Wellness services offered: Growth depends upon movement. My powerful Transformative Healing sessions support you as you grow through change – using energy healing (Reiki and Jin Shin Jyutsu), meditation and intuitive guidance through tarot.

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

My own journey towards wholeness over the past 40 years has Beth Leas made me a rich resource for others. Experience taught me you can change your way of being with yourself and being in the world.

What training and/or certifications do you have/ How long have you been in practice?

I have worked extensively for 25 years with adults and children using energy healing in a medical setting and my own private practice.

Do you have a particular specialty or niche?

My special areas of expertise are women’s health and people facing challenges such as cancer, divorce, and other life stressors.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you?

You will be fully supported as I work with you to energetically release what is holding you back, show you practical tools to find clarity and balance and help you open to receive your heart’s desire.

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

All healing comes from within. The greatest gift a wellness practitioner can offer is supporting you in tapping into your unlimited potential. I am dedicated to empowering you to live life well on all levels – physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Marriage and Family T private practice in Gree Core Relations been noted for her war Karin Knoblich as a facilitator. Her de 917-549-8689 women step into their po 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich 1239 Broadway, Ste 1003A, New York, NY life they long for.

Karin@CoreRelations.com Please visit: www.evelyc CoreRelations.com

What drew you to health and Karin Knoblich is a wellness as a profession?

MyPractitioner desire to support others in (CCEP), life transforming life negating patMarriage Mentor and terns into positive energy and She is the joy owner creativity.

Pleasure, and hap-of Co piness are our birthright but we faculty member of the cannot get there unless we face andEnergetics. embrace our darkKarin side andhas a NYC Greenwich CT make spaceand for all our feelings.

Wefacilitate cannot releaseafear, pain and process tha anger held in our body and mind embody their unless we feel safe and full have potenti someone whovisit: can guide us. BeKarin Knoblich Please www.core-re ing on a healing journey myself allows me to be there for others with compassion and honor their essence and uniqueness.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I hold certificates in Core Energetics, Interfaith Spiritual Counseling, Exceptional Marriage Mentoring and Radical Aliveness. I have been practicing for 15 years.

Do you have a particular niche?

I enjoy working with people who wish to go deeper and who want to cause breakthroughs in their lives. The body-oriented approach of Core Energetics allows my clients to become aware of where, how and why they block energy and therefore consciousness. Through movement, breath and touch I assist with the integration of body, mind and spirit. Sexuality and spirituality, intimacy and autonomy, freedom and security can be reconciled and lived.

What should a client expect from working with you?

For me to encourage them to express all of their feelings no matter how unacceptable or uncomfortable they may seem.

The reason I encourage this is because we have all gotten the message that somehow we are too much, which led us to hold back or become reactive or defensive in our interactions with others. Those survival strategies don’t allow us to be in our heart and in our power. I am inviting them to be in a process which will lead them to love wholeheartedly and embody their full potential.

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

That we can shift our energy which changes our experience and perception. We can then see solutions to our problems and the world looks completely different. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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womenswellnessprofiles Insights Wellness Center, LLC Christine Guerrera, LMFT 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe 203-260-9353 ChrisGuerrera@me.com InsightsWellnessCenter.com SoulDivingGoddess.com

Judith Barr, Mysteries of Life PO Box 603, Brookfield 203-775-5006 JudithBarr@PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com JudithBarr.com PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com PoliPsych101.Wordpress.com

Practice Summary/ Wellness services offered: Psychotherapy, spiritual life coaching, sacred ceremonies, home and family energetics, goddess divination readings, Reiki and intuitive energy healing, sacred circles, retreats, PowerShops, flower essence remedies, healing labyrinth sessions What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

Gratefully living my calling, my personal challenges inspire me to heal and empower my highest self. I consider it a sacred opportunity to assist others in doing the same.

Christine Guerrera

What training and/or certifications do you have/ How long have you been in practice?

A former Connecticut-certified teacher, I am now a licensed psychotherapist, ordained interfaith/spiritual minister and Reiki practitioner since 2000.

Do you have a particular specialty or niche?

Helping people discover wholeness and strength to address issues with substances, relationships, negative thinking, anxious, grief or depressive patterns. I offer a holistic approach to believing in your sacred self to thrive.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you?

My clients experience freedom and empowerment that comes from my non-traditional holistic approach. It is a joy to witness them awaken to a deep and meaningful self, truth and life.

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

I love my work. Nothing matters more than awakening to love and growing ourselves. I so appreciate human beings mindfully reflecting our greatness to one another, especially at our most vulnerable.

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Practice Summary/ Wellness services offered: As a depth psychotherapist and “midwife to the soul,” I help people heal more deeply than they ever imagined, going to the root where true healing happens.

Judith Barr

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

Knowing… healing isn’t a quick fix process; our sacred life task is to heal, become conscious, become ourselves. My sacred calling is to help in this journey.

What training and/or certifications do you have/ How long have you been in practice?

I’m an LPC and MHC with 30+ years’ experience helping clients heal fully and to the root, safely, with compassion and deep commitment to each person’s journey.

Do you have a particular specialty or niche?

As a “midwife” to the soul, I combine innovative psychotherapy with grounded spirituality, helping clients (men, and especially women, in all of life’s phases) give deeper birth to their True Selves.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you?

My attunement to them, listening with my ears and heart, helping them feel – not mask – their pain, and safely healing their wounds to the root, at their natural pace.

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

My full commitment to: those I work with; the healing partnership; working together for their deepest healing; safety in the healing journey; and the guidance of truth and love joined.

Robin Ordan

2001 West Main St, Ste 100C, Stamford 203-561-8535 OrdanR@hotmail.com RobinOrdanLCSW.com Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over twenty years of experience providing family, couple and individual therapy. I have expanded my practice to include professional coaching for executives and small businesses.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I am committed to and passionate Robin Ordan about working with the complex issues of families and small businesses as we walk through the process of change together.

Successfully facilitating the changes people identify for themselves is extremely rewarding.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Executive and professional coaching; child, adolescent and family therapy; grief and trauma therapy; navigating divorce; and parenting and parent/child conflict.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

I view both executive coaching and therapy as a partnership between us. You define the problem areas to be worked on; I use my special knowledge and experience to help you make the changes you identify. Both coaching and psychotherapy require your active involvement.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

I have expanded my practice to include the discipline of executive and professional coaching. This is very goal oriented, time limited and focused work designed to address specific problems or skill development.

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

My most extensive experience is working with complex family and business relationship challenges. I am passionate about facilitating changes that my clients identify and are willing to work hard to improve.

Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT – Turning Point Reiki, LLC 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 • JDuncan@TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointReiki.com • TurningPointShare.com Practice/Business Summary: Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center is a central resource for healthy living and wellness in Ridgefield, dedicated to integrating conventional medicine, cutting edge alternative modalities and ancient healing wisdom to achieve optimum wellness for the body, mind and spirit. Skilled practitioners and teachers offer holistic services and educational programs.

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, JoAnn Inserra Duncan RMT is the founder of Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center which incorporates Turning Point Reiki, LLC, Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group and is home to a team of skilled practitioners (see below).

JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. She specializes in care for individuals with cancer, back pain, Lyme disease and other tick borne illnesses. She finds it rewarding to help clients heal core issues by applying advanced techniques that help heal the cellular memory.

JoAnn teaches all levels of Reiki.

Practitioners at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center: Mary Beth Johnston, LMT, RMT 914-419-7961 • MBJMassage25@gmail.com Brenda Story, RMT 203-948-0841 • BLSTAMH@aol.com Stacy Raymond, Psy.D. 203-493-0344 • DrStacyRaymond@gmail.com DrStacyRaymond.com Valerie Rich, (AmSAT), RM 203-482-2278 • FifiRich@hotmail.com ThriveYogaCT.com Services Offered: Alexander Technique, Private Yoga, Essential Oils, Meditation, Usui Reiki, Karuna Reiki, Reiki with Crystals, Sacred Childbirth with Reiki, Shamanic Reiki, Integrated Energy Therapy, Reconnective Healing and The Reconnection, Cell Memory Technique, Reiki Shares, Turning Point S.H.A.R.E Divorce Support Group, Swedish, Relaxation, Deep Tissue and Sports Massage, Chair Massage, Energy Psychology Techniques, EMDR, EFT, Inner Balance.

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petbriefs Annual Animal Blessing in Redding: Bring the Pets!

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

T

he Tibetan Buddhist Center for Universal Peace will host an annual Animal Blessing on June 6 from 2 to 4pm (raindate June 7).

People of all faiths and animal companions of all sizes can participate in this free family-friendly event.

The ceremony, which will be held at 30 Putnam Park Road in Redding, will be led by the resident monks around 3:30pm after the guest speaker’s talk.

This year’s guest speaker will be Peter V.K. Reid, associate director and co-founder of Wildlife in Crisis, Inc., which is the largest wildlife and rescue rehabilitation center in Connecticut. Since its founding in 1989, Wildlife in Crisis has helped care for hundreds of injured and orphaned birds and mammals. The organization also engages in education and habitat preservation in an effort to decrease the daily casualties of human and wildlife interaction.

Wildlife in Crisis will be collecting donations of Purina Puppy Chow, Science Diet Puppy Chow, Small Bites and paper towels at the event to help with its daily operations.

In the past, a great variety of animals have participated, including horses, goats, guinea pigs, reptiles, cats and dogs. Come early and enjoy a walk on the property. The Animal Blessing will include prayers for the protection, health, long life and future path to liberation for the animals. For the safety and comfort of all, animals must be on a leash.

For more information about the Animal Blessing, classes or how to donate, email Info@DNKLDharma.org or call 203-664-1574. The event location will be 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding.

STARS Annual Plant Sale and Adoption Event

T

he Stratford Animal Rescue Society (STARS) will host its annual Plant Sale and Pet Adoption Event on May 9 from 11am–3pm at Stratford Animal Control. A wide variety of hanging baskets, annuals, perennials, herbs and vegetable plants will be available for sale. Pre-order by May 1 and receive a free basil plant. Pick up for pre-orders is the day of the event and also on, May 10 from 9am–11am. All proceeds go to benefit the animals impounded at the shelter.

For more information or to place an order, visit StratfordAnimalRescue.org.

Stratford Animal Control is located at 225 Beacon Point Rd, Stratford.

natural awakenings

Ocho With Foster Mom Patty Reilly

Rescued Foals Transform Lives

by Jennifer McDermott

I

t might seem surprising that a horse welfare article should find its place in an issue devoted to women’s health but the two are actually intimately connected through both tragedy and triumph.

Women experience many mental and physical milestones in life, including puberty, fertility, childbirth and menopause.

The modern world offers a variety of coping mechanisms and aids; this is where the horse comes into play for one

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particular milestone. Since 1942, Premarin has been the goto hormone replacement drug for many women transitioning through menopause. This drug comes from PREgnant MARe UrINe. A sad reality of this industry is the by-product of many unwanted living, breathing foals. However, there are people changing the future of these foals and, in exchange, these foals are transforming the lives of humans.

Mares must be pregnant in order to secrete the hormone needed into their urine. Instead of grazing in green pastures through their pregnancies as the pharmaceutical manufacturer has shown in commercials, these migratory animals actually spend their gestation period of eleven months strictly standing in a straight stall unable to lie down, hooked up to a “pee bag.” Often the mares are denied water so their urine will be more concentrated. When it comes time to give birth, the mares are turned out to pasture and remain with their young until winter arrives when the foals are subsequently weaned and the mares’ life of confinement begins again. Scores of diligent people fought successfully to get Premarin “pee lines” out of the U.S. and are now working to get them out of Canada; the bad news is the practice continues in other countries despite availability of both natural and synthetic alternatives to Premarin. Scores of foals continue to be born to uncertain, mostly unpleasant fate; many of them face slaughter but the fortunate are rescued at kill auctions or are bought directly from the backs of farmers’ trucks. A lot of horse rescues take them in even though their space is limited. While the quest for manufacturer accountability and humane practice continues, the people rescuing these foals have some inspiring stories to tell.

In 2004, Adaire Hiestand saw a photo of a Premarin colt destined for a kill auction and saw something special.

Hiestand saved him and started training him. By age 5, the colt’s ability to pick up and retain new tasks was clear. He went to train with Karri McFadden, a dressage rider. Fynn, the little Premarin colt, rose swiftly to the top of the dressage world; he and McFadden made it to Prix St. Georges in 2011 and Grand Prix in 2012. Within two competitions, Fynn earned the scores McFadden needed for her U.S. Dressage Federation gold medal. It was then equine veterinarian and equestrienne Candace Platz saw a photo of Fynn lying down with his head in McFadden’s lap and thought, “That’s my horse,” and bought him. Because of their mutual talents the two have risen to compete at the highest levels of dressage; Platz and the untraditional “American Warmblood” Fynn

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show their competition what the synergy of mental agility and focus looks like in the dressage arena. At age 9, Fynn and Platz have achieved the ranking of third in the U.S. National Dressage Finals, Grand Prix AA, USDF Gold Medalist, and USDF Regional Champion AA Grand Prix.

Holistic horsewoman Anna Twinney, founder of the ROTH method (ReachOutToHorses.com), was first exposed to the Premarin foals in 1998, when she held the position of head trainer at Monty Roberts’ Flag is Up Farm in California. She realized the great need for gentling and behavior modification for these youngsters, who were considered rogue by many experts.

In 2010, while filming her Foal Gentling series at Ray of Light Farm (RayOfLightFarm.org) in Connecticut, that she saw the potential of a “mutual students” clinic model. Ray of Light, run by Bonnie Boungiorno, has placed more than 70 Premarin horses in adoptive homes during the last eight years. Twinney pairs untouched

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Premarin foals with students that have completed her Holistic Equine Studies Program. It is hard to quantify the karmic magnitude of this union. The horse becomes desired and adoptable while the person walks away with a set of equine skills that can serve them in most gentling and basic behavior modification situations. The foals – or PMUs, as they are called – who stay on at Ray of Light continue to aid people in the advancement of horsemanship skills through a series of How Horses Think classes. This coursework supports Ray of Lights main objective, which is to provide an opportunity for people to have “a positive connection with life” through work with equines.

It is a wonderful thing when life presents a surprise package in a little colt, but it is the person who must make the lemonade out of lemons and not the other way around. Candace Platz’ quote about her experience with Fynn sums it up best. “I can’t say it’s a dream come true,” says Platz. “This dream wouldn’t have occurred to me.”

natural awakenings

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

How You Can Help Two Connecticut farms currently actively rescue and adopt Premarin foals. To adopt a foal or donate to help them, please contact the farms directly: H.O.R.S.E. of CT 43 Wilbur Rd, Washington 860-868-1960 • HORSEofCT.org Ray of Light Farm 232 Town St (Rte 82), East Haddam 860-873-1895 • RayOfLight.org

Dogs with Library Cards Kids Love Reading to Animals

by Sandra Murphy

The goal of Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ), launched in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1999 as part of Intermountain Therapy Animals, is to improve children’s literacy skills with the mentoring help of certified therapy teams. Its reach has spread through library programs across the U.S. and Canada and internationally, with other therapy groups following suit.

D

“

octors told the parents of an 11-year-old autistic son that he would never read… so quit trying to teach him,” says Suzanne Vening, an organic farmer in Jackson, Mississippi.

“The doctor didn’t count on Adam, my Australian shepherd.” Abused and abandoned before being adopted by Vening, she had trained him for therapy work.

Vening knew nothing about autistic or learning-disabled children, but she knew Adam could work miracles. The boy made eye contact with Adam during his library visit and read a few words. His parents were overjoyed as his reading continued to improve. “It’s hard to include children with special needs in many family activities,” Vening says. “A library is a place the whole family can enjoy.”

She advises, “Designate a safe corner where a child can escape if feeling overwhelmed. After entering the room, handlers should sit on the floor with

photo courtesy of Jean Maclean

naturalpet

the dog lying beside them. A standing dog can cause too much excitement.

It’s important to trust that your therapy dog will know how to approach a child that’s afraid, has tremors or can’t sit up or sit still.”

“An animal’s heartbeat seems to call to kids,” observes Rachael Barrera, a children’s librarian at Brook Hollow Public Library, in San Antonio, Texas.

“Dogs have come here once a week for more than a year. Now older kids that are comfortable with the reading program are showing younger ones how to choose a book.”

At California’s Benicia Public Library, kids read to Honey, a friendly brown dog, on Wednesday afternoons.

Sheila Jordan, managing editor and owner of Booklandia, founded in Bend, Oregon, says her 8-year-old, Chase, found it difficult to concentrate because of ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). “The Tales and Tails program was a big help. All summer, we went every week and chose books he said the dog would love.” Jordan’s reward was a more focused child; Chase’s reward was a dog of his own last fall.

North Carolina’s Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers 14,000 free programs a year throughout its 20 locations, including Paws to Read. Librarian Cathy Cartledge, reading program coordinator for the Morrison Regional branch, shares this story from Jaylee’s mom, Jill.

“Jaylee was tutored in reading for a year. After she also began reading to Zoey, a great Pyrenees, or Hunter, a golden retriever, I saw improvement in fluency, confidence and enjoyment.

It worked miracles compared with the hours and money spent for tutoring,”

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

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

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

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her mom remarks.

The Mount Prospect Library, near Chicago, has an age requirement for its Tales to Tails program. “Rachael, 8, will hardly put a book down now,” says her mom, Nicole Sasanuma, a senior associate with Business Communications & Advocacy, in Northbrook, Illinois. “Her sister, Emi, 6, is anxious for her next birthday so she ‘can read to doggies,’ too.”

Reading programs aren’t limited to libraries or schools. Jean Maclean, of Lompoc, California, trains her two dogs in agility and rally skills. For a change of pace, they visit the Chumash Learning Center, in Santa Ynez, once a month. The Chumash people value education from both its elders and teachers outside the tribe. Maclean relates that Donny, age

11, was afraid of dogs until he met hers, after which his teachers saw his reading improve three levels in one semester.

Animals help kids relax and become teachers to the dogs. Researchers at the University of California, Davis have found that reading skills for kids that read to dogs during a 10-week literacy program improved by 12 percent.

Children in the same program that didn’t do the same showed no improvement.

Dogs and other pets prove that reading out loud doesn’t have to be scary. All it takes is a good book and a good listener.

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

Other Four-Footed Reading Partners

C

photo courtesy of Nancy Bailey

leo, a small gray cat that lives with Michelle Cardosi, a retail clerk in Denver, enjoyed her Love on a Leash therapy visits. When she became arthritic, moving from lap-to-lap was painful, and Cardosi considered retiring her, but Cleo didn’t agree. “So we went to the library’s Whiskers and Tales program instead, where she could sit on a pillow, get petted and be the center of attention,” she says. “She was able to visit until her 18th birthday.”

Clifford, a 24-year-old Morgan horse, is a well-known literacy advocate. He tours libraries in Michigan and using a sponge and watercolor paint, “signs” his biography, Clifford of Drummond Island, by author and Lansing artist Nancy Bailey, for his fans.

“The kids probably won’t remember what I say, but they’ll always remember the day they saw a horse in the library,” says Bailey. “We’ve been visiting for about four years.

He’s nosy and gets into everything, like the day he noticed the used book shelf. He picked out pulp fiction books and kept handing them to me.” Bailey notes that Clifford teaches children that horses have feelings and a sense of humor when he goes for laughs and changes his responses when doing tricks.

UNLEASH YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Fetch new customers by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ Monthly Section Naturally Healthy Pet. 64

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727 BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com • BullyBreedRescueInc.org COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel • 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC. PO Box 8147, Stamford • 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 • StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS • TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

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

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services only during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 62.

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markyourcalendar Experiencing Your Past Lives with Ashod Kassabian

Magazine calendar events must be received by May 12 (for June 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.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 Align Yourself With Your True Nature: Kabbalah Workshop – 7-9:30pm. Learn about Universal Kabbalah, the seven creative planets, your first three planets of your Kabbalah astrology birth chart and how to align your week and year to these energies. $45. SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119.

SoundCenterArts@gmail.com. SoundCenterArts.com.

Spring Weekend Retreat – 5/1 at 7pm to 5/3 at 5pm. Deepen your meditation practice by allowing yourself to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. $30/day, $60/ weekend. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 2 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years). Includes latest info. Learn Reiki for self-healing and healing others.

4 powerful energy connections, from short (Japanese/ USA) lineage, 2 manuals and certificate. $115 + $10/ materials. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Mandala Workshop – 10am-noon. Mandalas are circular designs that come from your heart and soul and express your inner thoughts, feelings, wisdom and spiritual nature. Led by a skilled artist who will guide you to complete your piece. Pre-registration required. $40. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 3 Mom’s Morning Out – 9-11:30am. With Corti Cooper.

Refuel, relax and refresh! Leave the kiddos at home, and come out for a morning just for you. Enjoy an hour long, get your body flowing, yoga class. Mini-facials, chair massage, coffee, tea and snacks. $35. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

$30/$50 with early reservation for professionals and non-professionals

Talking to Animals with Psychic Medium Joan Carra – 1-3pm. Joan talks and listens to your pets, even those who have passed on. Learn about interspecies communications. Fundraiser for the Albertson Memorial Spiritual Church. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

The 13th Munay-ki, the Rite of the Wombkeeper – 6-8pm. Helps release fear and pain from the womb, release the wounds of the past, to bring healing of the sacral region, embody your powerful femininity, and boost your creative and manifestation abilities. $50. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 5 TGI Information Sessions – 11am–noon. Free.

The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany.

203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 TGI Information Sessions – 7-8pm. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

The Consciousness of Joy – 7-9pm. An experiential learning laboratory for awareness and development of love and joy. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu.

Learn.edu/Events.

THURSDAY, MAY 7 Go Red For Women Health and Wellness Exhibition and Learning Sessions – 9:30am-noon. Informative and fun day of activities. Explore options that are available locally for you to eat better, move more, stress less and look your best. Don’t forget to wear red. Free. Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa, 243 Tresser Blvd, Stamford. 914-640-3268. Emily.Levasseur@ Heart.org. WestfairGoRedLuncheon.AHAEvents.org.

Go Red For Women Luncheon – 9:30am-2pm. At the Health & Wellness Exhibition, you will have an opportunity to explore options that are available locally for you to eat better, move more, stress less and look your

Transformation For Life YOGA MASSAGE FACIALS

Private and Group Workshops

Wellness Center 203-617-8228

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

Jill Myruski L.M.T., RYT

Old Greenwich: Albertson Spiritualist Church (5/5 and 5/16) NYC: Theosophical Society (5/19/15) For Information and Reservations ExperiencingYourPastLives.com 917-733-5732 best. The Learning Sessions provide information about risk factors and effective techniques for reducing them. $250. Stamford Marriott Hotel and Spa, 243 Tresser Blvd, Stamford. 914-640-3268. Emily.Levasseur@ Heart.org. WestfairGoRedLuncheon.AHAEvents.org.

Go Red For Women Luncheon Breakout Sessions – 10am-noon. Session I: 10am-Breaking barriers in heart disease. Session II: 11am-Cooking with heart. Session III: 11:30 - Stress less for your heart. $250. Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa, 243 Tresser Blvd, Stamford. 914-640-3268.

Emily.Levasseur@Heart.org. WestfairGoRedLuncheon.

AhaEvents.org.

TGI Information Sessions – 4:30-5:30pm. Free.

The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany.

203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

Food For All 2015 – 6-9pm. Join together to support the fight to end hunger. Featuring restaurants and artisans, the new Dessert Café, in addition to Food for All’s popular craft cocktail bars spearheaded by creative mixologists. $75. The Loading Dock, 375 Fairfield Ave, Stamford. 800-280-3298. Kevin@ CommunityPlates.org. CommunityPlates.org.

Vision Board Evening – 7-9pm. We all have the power to manifest our dreams. A vision board is a collage on which you display images that represent what you want to be, do, or have in your life. Bring scissors and magazines (if you have any). $5. Grounded Holistic Wellness, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 203942-0774. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo.com.

GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 8 Shamanic Journey Evening – 7-9pm. Focus on building confidence in your ability to receive and interpret information from your shamanic guides. Explore the

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May 2015

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Audubon Greenwich & the Fairfield Green Food Guide Present

Sustainable Food & Farm Expo 2015 Sunday, May 31 10 am – 5 pm

Other World and receive healing and messages that are perfect for you. All welcome. $20/suggested donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 Spiritual Psyhic Fair – 1-5pm. Gifted and caring intuitive readers available for sessions. Offerings include mediumship, tarot cards, pendulum, psychic intuitive readings. Sessions approx. 25 mins. Also Reiki and Pranic Healing sessions available. All welcome. Walk-ins welcome. $45/readings, $25/healings. Alberson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info.AlbertsonChurch. org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 12 Essential Oils for Beginners – 7-8:30pm. With Jennifer Gailey. Informative classes to enhance your health and wellness through the use of Essential Oils.

Free. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@ gmail.com. TFLWellness.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 14 New Haven Chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting – 6:30-8:30pm. First time attendees free, members only. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. NewHaven@HolisticChamberOfCommerce. com. Learn.edu/Events.

Empowering Relationships – 7-9pm. With Gayatri & Arjuna. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu.

Learn.edu/Events.

SATURDAY, MAY 16

Chef Silvia Baldini of Strawberry and Sage, Fairfield County’s first female Chopped Champion, will lead three culinary demonstrations with tastings that feature her signature chic and simple comfort food made with local and sustainable ingredients.

AT AUDUBON GREENWICH 613 Riversville Rd • Greenwich Lunches catered by organic restaurants

$15 person, $20 couple, $25 family (does not include lunch)

Tastings and demonstrations: $10 per session per person Our mission is to inform the public about our rich and diverse sustainable food community; engage them with organic farmers and chefs, homesteading experts, artisan food producers and retailers at the marketplace; and educate them through sustainable food tasting and demonstrations.

RSVP: Contact Jeff Cordulack greenwichcenter@audubon.org or 203-869-5272 x349 68

Fairfield County Edition

Reiki I Certification – 9:30am-5pm. Introductory level class. Learn the history of Reiki, the hand positions, how to conduct treatments and receive the Reiki I attunement. Learn what is and how to create sacred space, how to ensure you and your client are protected from any unwanted negative energy. $100.

Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 17 Guided Relaxation with Healing Gong – 1:303:30pm. Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with some very gentle slow stretching, a sweet guided deep relaxation with healing tibetan and crystal bowls, followed by a nice long gentle gong bath. $25. Dew Yoga, 123 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. 203-856-5299. Alex@ AlexNason.com. DewYoga.net.

Sunflower Manifestation Workshop – 6-8pm.

Focus on the manifestation of dreams, goals and desires by utilizing the assistance of the Spirit of the Sunflower. Receive sunflower seeds to plant to bring your manifestations from the ethereal and into the physical world. $25. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

WEDNESDAY MAY 20 Ecotherapy Workshop – 6:30pm. Free The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252.

Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

natural awakenings

THURSDAY, MAY 21 Questions & Answers About Reiki – 7-9:30pm. With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. 7-8:30pm: talk about Reiki with Q&A for non-Reiki. 8:15-9:30pm: talk and Q&A for Reiki certified Practitioners to inquire about advanced training. Includes latest info on Western Style Reiki. Mini-Reiki sessions included. $5 or $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 24 Goddess Retreat Day – 9am-3pm. Soul diving, embodiment of goddess, rest, play, meditate, share, labyrinth experience, sacred ceremony of exploring love. Includes lunch. $90. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353.

ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 26 Essential Oils For Beginners – 7-8:30pm. With Jennifer Gailey. Informative classes to enhance your health and wellness through the use of Essential Oils.

Free. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@ gmail.com. TFLWellness.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 29 Crystal Awareness – 9am-5pm. Take your knowledge to a deeper level with Chicchan, an incredible crystal healer traveling here from Australia. The one-day course introduces you to crystals and their energy. In a fun hands on learning experience. $210.

Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.

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

Learn Reiki 2nd Degree in the Western style. Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 31 Crystal Dreaming Practitioner Training – 9am-5pm.

Become certified as a crystal dreaming practitioner.

With Raym, a Shaman, Alchemist, alternative therapist, columnist, author of Spirit Guide and Alchemy of Crystals. Prerequisite: Crystal Awareness class on May 22, 9am-5pm. $540. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Essential Oils for Dogs – Noon-1pm. Learn how essential oils can help keep your four-legged friend happy, healthy and stress free. Bring your best friend (treats provided). Reservations, call Rob & Chelsea Messer at 203-913-5426. Free. Grass Island Rd Dog Park, Grass Island Rd, Greenwich. 203-913-5426.

RobertEMesser@gmail.com.

Manifestation and Miracles Workshop – 1-3pm.

With Michelle Pelletier. What would it feel like to heal trauma that inhibits you creating a thriving relationship? Learn Spiritual Mechanics and Energy Anatomy to reset your ability to create and receive miracles. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@ AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

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

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

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

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

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

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Eckhart Tolle Study Group: A New Earth - Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose – 7-9pm. Take part in this open hearted, supportive group as we dismantle

EGO (that anxious, negative, limiting part of your mind) and learn to locate and experience your True Self. Free or by donation. 154 Head of Meadow Rd, Newtown. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@ gmail.com. NewtownLove.org.

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

Easy Flow Yoga – 7:15-8:30pm. Relaxing, regenerative, meditative and supportive held poses leaving you feeling nourished and well rested. Appropriate for beginners to all levels of yoga experience. $22/ class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford.

203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com.

FamilyTreeYoga.net.

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

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

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050.

TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday Bringing the Art of Aromatherapy Into Daily Living – 4 weeks. With Ilana Sobo, Aromatherapist and Herbalist. Workshop on the therapeutic, commercial and practical gifts of working with essential oils. $180 for series, includes materials. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

TwinStarHerbs@gmail.com. TwinStarHerbal.com.

TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:3010am. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? At TLC Center, we understand the power of networking. Relaxed supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com.

Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, rehabbing injuries, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Pickets Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySWard@gmail. com. DrKathySward.com.

Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9am. Classes offerered Tuesday-Saturday. Kripalu-influenced, classic hatha yoga for all levels and styles. Personal inquiry and cultivating individual experience is emphasized. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass.

Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail. com. TFLWellness.com..

Mommy and Me Yoga: Tots/Toddlers – 1010:45am. Crawling to 3 years. Partner with your little one for animated yoga poses, games, music and breathing exercises that help to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. Bond with your child, while strengthening their growing muscles. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail. com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Mommy and Me Yoga: Pre-Crawlers – 11:15amnoon. 8 weeks. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep.

Bond with your baby and connect with other moms. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com.

FamilyTreeYoga.net.

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

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

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Kids Yoga Ages 6-11 – 4:15-5:15pm. Yoga postures, games and partner poses, will provide a fun, non- competitive environment, which will help each child build self-esteem and experience teamwork.

Also on Wednesdays at 4:30pm. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

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

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

Energy Tools Tuesdays: Understanding the Power of Your Energy Body and Subconscious Mind – 7pm. 4-week workshop. Learn simple techniques to feel better. Energy body; EFT, the power of the subconscious, visualization and intuition. $40/week, $120 for all. Westport residence, given with RSVP. Robin@RobinFriedman.net.

EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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

Becoming rich is a science that can be proven only by applying the principles of getting rich. Most significantly, thought. Acquire the ability to think the way we want to think. Love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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

Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm.

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

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

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com.

TransformationForLifeYoga.com.

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

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

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

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

EFT for Weight & Energy Transformation – 7pm.

EFT is a simple but powerful technique. Stress decreases, cortisol levels drop. EFT research shows that participants in EFT programs continue to lose weight after learning tapping. New tools taught every month. $30. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. Robin@RobinFriedman.net.

EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com.

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

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

Meditation – 7-8pm. Experience bliss, peace, joy and deep healing. Not your traditional silent or guided meditation class. It is meant to transform you, healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant

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Fairfield County Edition

emotions, and discordant vibrations. By donation.

Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

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

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

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

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

TrinityProduction.org.

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

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

thursday Positive Birth Movement of Fairfield County – 1011am. Support group for pregnant women. Open to all pregnant women. Come together to discuss thoughts, feelings and insights about childbirth in a positive, supportive setting. Free. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail. com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Kripalu Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. With Kat Barton, 500hour professional Kripalu teacher. Focus on breath and

natural awakenings

be present. Class is suitable for all levels and will start whereever you are. This class will help center you and relax. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215.

Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

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

Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130.

Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Baby Massage – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Heather Osuch, LMT. Hands-on, instructional class will guide you and your baby through massage techniques in class.

Babies 4 to 10 months. $30/class, $85/3 classes. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Empowered Kids Energy Tools Class – 4pm. Give your kids a gift they will use for the rest of their lives – the ability to shift their own energy. EFT (or meridian tapping), visualization and meditation, affirmations, energy exercises, the power of their thoughts and words and more. $20/class. Personal residence, given with RSVP. Norwalk. Alyssa@IntuitiveChangeAgent. com. IntuitiveChangeAgent.com.

Teen Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Through the unity of movement and breath, students will become more connected to their inner selves. Improve flexibility and strength and cultivate an overall feeling of peace. Ages 12-14. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Yoga Basics – 4:30-5:30pm. Come as you are.

This class will cover the basic forms of yoga poses, building a foundation of knowledge to discover and expand your yoga practice. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Psychic Development for Beginners – 7pm. Fiveweek class. With Megan Crandlemire. Learn to develop your intuitive ability to sense auras, guides and the universal energy surrounding us all. $127.

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

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

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

DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com.

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

Come learn about your energy body - every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP, near Merritt, Weston. 203-2471318. Robin@RobinFriedman.net. Meetup.com/ Energy-Tools-Study-Group.

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

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

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

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

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

Pre-Natal Yoga – 7:15-8:30pm. Other times available. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail. com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Channeled Messages and Meditations – 7:309:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Through meditation and channeling receive information, energetic atonements and initiations from Spirit. This group is for those who want to develop and expand their energetic vibration. $20. Space is limited. Ridgefield. 203-438-4893.

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

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

BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

Wake- Up and Flow Yoga – 8-9am. Wake up and get moving with this energizing flow. Build flexibility, strength and endurance. Leave feeling ready to take on the weekend. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642.

KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

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

Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self...Sharing of wisdom, inspiration, motivation and practical tools to love yourself fit. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@ me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

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

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

FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com.

TransformationForLifeYoga.com.

Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety.

For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050.

TurningPointReiki.com.

Publish a Natural Awakenings Magazine in Your Community Share Your Vision and Make a Difference • Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings recently won the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review. To learn more visit: franchisebusinessreview.com

TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Friday – 7-9pm.

What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful event designed for everyone from novices to longtime tarot friends. Explore the tarot or develop a deeper relationship with the cards. Everyone will receive a reading from Beth Prins Leas. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

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

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

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

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 95 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico • • • • • • • • • • •

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• Cincinnati, OH • Toledo, OH • Oklahoma City, OK • Portland, OR* • Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA • Harrisburg/York, PA • Lancaster, PA • Lehigh Valley, PA • Pocono, PA/ Warren Co., NJ • Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre, PA • Rhode Island • Charleston, SC • Columbia, SC • Grand Strand, SC* • Greenville, SC • Chattanooga, TN • Knoxville, TN* • Memphis, TN • Austin, TX • Dallas Metroplex, TX • Dallas/FW Metro N • SE Texas • San Antonio, TX* • Richmond, VA • VA’s Blue Ridge • Seattle, WA • Madison, WI • Milwaukee, WI • Puerto Rico *Existing magazines for sale

For more information visit our website NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine or call 239-530-1377

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May 2015

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

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

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

GracefulPlanet.com.

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

Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com.

TransformationForLifeYoga.com.

Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

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

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

classifieds

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

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

Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:30pm. Second and fourth Saturday. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment, and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att. net. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

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

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203.856.9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

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

Knitting Group-Purls of Wisdom – 6-8pm. With Diane Bustamante. Make prayer shawls. Shawls will be blessed by the Unity community and delivered to those in need of comfort. Bring yarn and needles/ hook, if you have them. Supplies available for purchase. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityPurlsOfWisdom@ gmail.com. UnityCenterPS.org/PurlsOfWisdom.

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

BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum.

Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

FOR RENT BRIGHT OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT with a window and new carpet/paint in a physical therapy clinic. Ideal for a wellness professional, great exposure and referrals. In Newtown off 84 exit 9.

Email: Karin@fisiopt.com.

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED: for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply!

Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED FOR NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS: If you have a passion for health and non-toxic products, we are looking for motivated individuals now! Email Support@35Again.com.

SERVICES GET HEALTHY THIS SPRING WITH CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH, Danielle Carriera.

Specializing in healthy eating and digestive wellness. Call to schedule a free health history with me!

203-209-6276. DrCarriera@gmail.com or sign-up at BalancedNutritionWithDanielle.com

WANTED DONATIONS FOR TAG SALE Albertson Memorial Church in Old Greenwich requests donations for June 17th tag sale. Antiques, jewelry, furniture, cars, decorative objects, gently used clothing; anything of value deeply appreciated. Call 203-637-4615 or email info@albertsonchurch.org for drop off/pick up info.

WOMEN WALKING PARTNERS DON’T WALK ALONE! Join our “get outside & walk” movement of walking women. Step outside as a walking partner today. WomenWalking.net.

WomenWalking@gmail.com.

Have a Stubborn Skin Disorder and Tried Everything Else?

Finally, there’s a solution: try Natural Awakenings’ DermaClear, a natural, affordable, skin repair salve.

DermaClear brings comforting relief to sufferers of many skin irritations and has been proven to be effective against: 4-oz jar $29.99 plus ONLY $5 for shipping

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natural awakenings

• SHINGLES • PSORIASIS • ECZEMA • JOCK ITCH • STINGS • BURNS • ALLERGIC RASHES & MORE

Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

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

ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 11.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

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

See ad, page 79.

AURA PHOTOGRAPHY

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

COLONICS

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

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.

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

31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com

XTORAYS.COM

DETOXIFICATION

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866-XtoRAYS • SuzannePyle@prodigy.net

LIVER MEDIC

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, page 25.

CHIROPRACTIC

AURA PHOTOS UNLIMITED

Jan & Jay 203-266-0317 • AuraPhotosUnlimited@hotmail.com AuraPhotosUnlimited.com Specializing in aura photos, chakra images and personalized bio data reports. Prices range from $25-$70. Various options available. See website for event schedule. Available for private parties and corporate affairs.

Interesting, educational and fun!

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non-invasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 32.

800-387-2278 • LiverMedic.com Liver Medic manufactures specialized proprietary liver detox supplements. Products are safe and endorsed by physicians. We source only premium raw materials to maximize effectiveness of our unique formulations. All products adhere to strict cGMP guidelines, contain no artificial anything and are non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan when possible. The liver is complex, we make it simple. See ad, page 66.

EDUCATION

Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 21.

COLONICS

ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 17.

COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

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May 2015

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HOLISTIC DENTIST

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

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 25.

ENERGY HEALING

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 • WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer.

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

CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com

THE LIGHT OF HAPPINESS REIKI AND WELLNESS

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

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

Connecticut Headache and Migraine Relief Center’s (CHMRC) approach to headache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, back cover.

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

GREEN LIVING BIOTOP NATURAL POOLS

BY AQUA-SCAPES LLC.

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, pages 35 & 41.

203-743-7665 • AquaScapeBy@sbcglobal.net AquaScapesPool.com Imagine swimming in cool, pure, healthy, “living” water created by plants, bacterias and 30 years of experience. No more red eye, bleached hair, itchy skin and the many negative effects of chlorine. See ad, page 41.

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamfod 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 17.

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Fairfield County Edition

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

natural awakenings

Dr Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, Weight Reduction programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

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

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad, page 24.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

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

See ad, page 13.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT JOAN CARRA

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

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

JOINT PAIN DONNA MILANA

914-882-9758 DonnaHealthyLife123@gmail.com HealthyLegs123.com Ache joints? Considering a replacement, try “JUSURU LIQUID BIO CELL” The Best Bone, Joint and Skin Product in the world with 7 Patents. Natural cartilage regeneration and lubrication, liquid. Helps to protect, repair, rebuild & prevent deterioration.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

MEDITATION

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

LAURA CARLSON, LMT

REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

Yo u d e s e r v e t o b e nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance.

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

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind.

No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation. org for updated information.

Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support.

She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 7.

Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC

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

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

ZAK WALKER, LMT

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

MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 • FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs. See ad, page 18.

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

NATURAL FOOD MARKET

Ellen M. Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 • BigAppleHealth.com

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

The Common Bond Market is a natural food market that provides The Valley with more healthful alternatives than the usual grocery fare. You’ll also find hot food, supplements, and much more. Find us on Facebook! See ad, page 9.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 12.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

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

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

Insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, M.D., ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself.

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

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 10.

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ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

PSYCHOTHERAPY YUDIT MAROS, LMFT, CHt

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-244-5898 • Center4AuthenticLiving.com

THE CLEAN BEDROOM

79 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-292-9275 • 866-380-5892 TheCleanBedroom.com The Clean Bedroom is an organic and all-natural mattress and bedding resource with seven showrooms, including its new location in Greenwich. Through its showrooms and web site, eco-minded shoppers gain insight to create a healthier sleep environment. See ad, page 4.

PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

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

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

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children.

Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment/Bonding, Child Development and Parenting.

See ad, page 20.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

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

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 • Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

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

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

PsychoSpiritual Therapy & Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non-traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom. See ad, page 15.

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REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

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

All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

natural awakenings

REIKI DEBORAH GAYLORD, RMT, IARP

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

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

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

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

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

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

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

SOLAR

WELLNESS CENTER

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

RICHARD LOVE

SolarCity (field energy consultant) 914-262-9636 RLove@Solarity.com • SolarCity.com NO money down! An alternative to the dirty and increasing energy rates, while helping the environment and saving you money all at the same time. Every 4 minutes a household switches to solar. Free; Consultation and installation. Call for information. See ad, page 18.

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

See ad, page 79.

ORGANIC REMEMBRANCE

Slyms Bazile 203-479-0417 • BSlyms@gmail.com Slyms Bazile is a certified Reiki Practitioner and certified Medicinal Aromatherapist. She created Organic Remembrance Therapy, a fusion of healing modalities gathered in remembrance of our organic roots.

Call now for a free consultation.

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

Shiloh@TheHDMethod.com TheHDMethod.com

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

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH PRINS LEAS

KURE SPA

HEART’S DESIRE METHOD

Opening in November to provide a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, yoga, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, page 14.

SALTANA CAVE

WEIGHT LOSS

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

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

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

WELLNESS CENTER iFLOAT

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

See ad, page 79.

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

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

A beautiful studio in a convenient Danbury location. Offering daily yoga classes, therapeutic massage and essential oil body and face treatments. Owner Jill Myruski has over 18 years experience in therapeutic massage and healing. Free classes on essential oil applications for everyday use. Check website for details. See ad, page 67.

FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE In Life and Business

Advertise in Natural Awakenings’

June Balanced Man and Healing Addiction Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call 203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

77

COSMIC RHYTHMS

by Alethea Hunt

M

ay begins with an emotionally insightful Full Moon in Scorpio on May 3. You can use this lunation for psychological illumination regarding your habits, needs and cravings; particularly when it comes to gaining perspective on appetites and/or vices. Balance will be important so you’re neither sucked too far into the emotional deep end through overcomplicating matters, nor keeping an overly simplistic perspective that distracts you from any inner turbulence. To this end, you might watch for a possible inclination to overcompensate with good times, parties, excessive “playtime,” an exaggerated focus upon your children, or an over-emphasis upon a lover as a sort of diversionary tactic.

A predominant theme throughout May is being able to tap into the “small, still voice” within due to repeated contact between Mercury and Neptune in the days surrounding the May 9 and 29, respectively. These are excellent times to sit in quiet reflection and ask or pray for your guides/angels/highest self/divinity to come through with spiritual guidance. This may not be without its challenges since Mercury is inhabiting Gemini. Try setting up a distraction-free and possibly gadget-free zone. Enter this state with the aid of a little relaxation music or even a guided meditation – treat it like a mini-retreat and see what your intuition has to say. Look for little cosmic signs and symbols in everyday happenings. Pay special attention to what your dreams have to say around these dates. Mercury will also turn retrograde from May 18 to June 11. These dates and adjacent days are ones to avoid for any important correspondence or making handshake deals due to the general lack of clarity that can occur when these energies co-mingle. You’re better off letting things float during these times.

Mid-month is a good time for a little extra consideration with your words as Mars in Gemini pulls into a rather prolonged opposition with Saturn between May 10 and 20. You might think about with whom you initiate conversation or what subjects you speak about in order to avoid verbal sparring/clashes. This isn’t really a time to run around challenging others’ paradigms – you’re highly likely to encounter resistance and can wind up metaphorically bashing your head against a wall. If you find that you do have to address a hot topic or initiate a dialog likely to be challenging, it is best that you utilize a healthy dose of respect and self-restraint to moderate this energy.

The new moon will be in money-making Taurus on May 18. If you’re setting an intention for this moon, it’s a good time to align with things like budgets, the curbing of excess expenditures, and/or possibly putting money away for a safety net or savings plan. This is an earthy new moon with its contact to Saturn; matters on the material plane are definitely favored.

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

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natural awakenings

displayadvertiserindex Aqua-Scapes LLC 41 Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard 11 Acupuncture Healing of CT/ Jody Eisemann 79 Advanced Healing Skin Cream 66 Alba Thermal Imaging 32 Ann’s Place 37 Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 21 Audubon Greenwich 29 Avacen Medical 66 Judith Barr 23 Big Brothers Big Sisters 53 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical 2 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental 2 Chamomille Natural Foods 67 The Clean Bedroom 4 The Cleanest Touch 13 CLH Counseling/Cynthia Haupt 11 The Common Bond Market 9 CT Headache & Migraine Center 80 DermaClear 72 Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine 24 Embody the Sacred 20 Eyecare Associates 13 Final Journey LLC 61 Fine-Light/Westport Chiropractic 29 Finger Lakes School of Massage 18 Five Star Printing 25 Debra Gibson, ND 16 The Graduate Institute 43 Eliana Grubel 45 Hands & Paws Reiki for All 61 Health, Prayer & Healing Seminar 27 Healthy Choice Mattress 54 Higher Brain Living Westport 31 Housatonic Valley Waldorf School 17 Hunter Healing Hands 15 Ifloat 79 Insight Counseling 31 Insights Wellness Center 15 The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 33 Izzi B’s 44 J’Ericka Products 15 Kindred Spirits 11 Kure Spa 14 The Last Resort 63 Beth Prins Leas 79 Le Boudoir 12 Lipo-Light/Westport Chiropractic 13

Liver Medic 66 Lyme Connection Seminar & Health Fair 26 Mind-Body Transformation/ Lipo-Light 35 Mind-Body Transformation 41 Mrs. Greens Natural Markets 38 NA Community Connections/ Sticks & Stones Open House 19 NA Franchise Sales 71 Natural Health & Wellness Center 12 Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 45 Nature’s Way Natural Foods 49 Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic 62 Olivette 47 Robin Ordan, LMT 15 Robin Ordan, LCSW 20 Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc 22 Pangaea Massage 20 Patricia’s Presents 66 Personal Wellness Center/ Sage Osa 49 Prescription4Wellness/ Mary Gilbertson 17 Purple Rice Product 51 Salon Aponte 17 SAVOR Healthy Organic 3 Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND 7 Simple Scallion 45 Victoria Shaw, PhD 19 SolarCity 18 Soul Centered Healing/ Danielle Joffe Hampton 79 Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli 20 SoupStock 38 Sticks & Stones Farm 37 Sustainable Food & Farm Expo 68 Synergy Salon 49 Total Life Care Center 79 Touch of Sedona 23 Transformation for Life 67 Twin Star Herbals/Lupo Passero 49 Two Coyotes Wilderness School 8 Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 50 University of Bridgeport Clinics 9 Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND 10 Westbrook Nature School 25 Westport Farmers Market 45 Whole Foods 47 Worden Wellness Center 28 Xlear 65 XtoRays 25 Yoga Culture 32

Total Life Care Center 152 East Ave. • Norwalk, CT • 203-856-9566 • TLCcenter.com Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrated health care practitioners

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

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

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

SOUL CENTEREDHEALING INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT

♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue.

Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.

soulcentered@mac.com

203-292-9869

soul-centered-healing.com

Quality Acupuncture at Affordable Prices

Acupuncture Healing CT Really affordable, based on: Small group acupuncture keeps prices down and allows many more to take advantage of this highly effective, ancient healing art.

Discounted packages allow for better, faster results and lower pricing.

Private sessions also available.

Jody Eisemann

is a CT licensed acupuncturist with 20+ years experience in treatment of all kinds of pain with immediate & effective results.

Locations in

Norwalk & Trumbull

203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com Call for free consultation

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Transformative SOULHealing CENTEREDHEALING INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT Beth Prins Leas

♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress

Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose.

♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

Balance your body, find peace of mind, reconnect to spirit...DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. • session reduce stress Each utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue.

• induce relaxation Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.

• relieve chronic and acute pain soulcentered@mac.com 203-292-9869 soul-centered-healing.com • speed wound healing • boost immune function • improve memory and concentration • ease anxiety/depression • recover from injury, illness or trauma • raise your energetic frequency to stimulate health and healing private sessions, workshops, events, in-person or by phone Norwalk and Ridgefield locations

www.bethleas.com 203.856.9566

Fairfield County’s #1 Center

For Stress Reduction and Mind Education Float in warm water with a high concentration of Epsom salt with no light or sound.

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

Schedule your appointments: (203)-226-7378 • ifloatspa.net 163 Main St.,Westport, CT eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2015

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