Natural Awakenings Fairfield County July 2014

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

FOOD WATCH

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

Farmer Heroes Local Organic Farms & Farm-to-Door Services Fracking vs. Farming

Sound Effects

Music to Pets’ Ears

Nature’s Medicine Cabinet Essential Oils for Summer Ills new section

Fairfield Green

Food Guide July 2014 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

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

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

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

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

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

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

From left to right:

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

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

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

Call now for details.

Office located on the Fairfield/Trumbull line

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

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Healthy Pizza

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

Now taking orders on line!

www.savorhealthypizza.com

e at

healthy, natural & organic pizza you’ll savor every bite

Now serving zero grain pizza crust!

Extremely low-carb

Ask About Our Homemade, Gluten-Free & Vegan Pizzas

free local delivery with $ 15 min. order

h e a lt h y

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

21 JAMES GORMLEY

TAKES ON THE FDA

Why the Natural Health Movement Must Protect Itself

by Kathleen Barnes

24 The Institute

9-20-14 and 9-21-14 Chelsea Piers CT Free Admission

• Health screenings provided by Stamford Hospital • Dance, fitness, and technology demos • 80 exhibitors • 4,000+ attendees expected

of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN)

by Nicole Miale

26 STEWARDS OF

26 44

EARTH’S BOUNTY

Organic Farmers Sow Seeds of Change

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

33 Small Organic

Farms, Big Ideas in Fairfield County

by Eileen Weber • Includes inaugural 5K Run Walk for Health & Hunger to benefit the Food Bank of Fairfield County • 1 Mile Dog Walk sponsored by The Veterinary Cancer Center • Free Doggie Day Care outside Chelsea Piers CT, 9am-1pm, Saturday, 9-20-14

New 2014 Marketing Package Opportunity: • Connect with up to 4,000 people personally as an exhibitor at the event • Reach 60,000 + readers of Natural Awakenings with a specially priced Exhibitor Profile in the September issue, distributed and read before, during and after the event* Contact TMK Entertainment at 203-531-3047 or Natural Awakenings at 203-885-4674 before July 31st for more information

www.HWS-Expos.com *Additional discounts may apply in conjunction with longer-term advertising contracts

36 FARM-TO-DOOR

SERVICE PROFILES

44 ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SUMMER

Healing Fragrances for Bites, Allergies and Sunburn

by Kathleen Barnes

54 Sound Effects

What Your Pet Hears

by Donna Gleason

60 Camping Turns Kids

into Nature Lovers Forsaking ‘Angry Birds’ for Bird Songs

by Avery Mack

62 Soul Retrieval:

Reclaiming Personal Power Through Shamanic Healing

by Jessica C. Hunter

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7 newsbriefs 17 globalbriefs 24 communityspotlight 30 fairfieldgreen

17 38

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foodguide 38 consciouseating 40 nutritioncoachprofiles 42 greenliving 44 healingways 50 naturallyhealthypet 52 naturalpet 57 petresourceguide 60 healthykids 64 fitbody 66 inspiration 68 calendar 72 classifieds 73 resourceguide

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

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

Editorial submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month. calendar submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

WHY AN ORGANIC MATTRESS IS RIGHT FOR YOU

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

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

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

This is “green wash” marketing hype.

FIND A HUGE SELECTION OF THE BEST ORGANIC MATTRESSES IN THE WORLD Queen$4398

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the World, all in one place Greenwich at 79 East Putnam Ave | 203.292.9275 Manhattan at 230 5th Ave | 212.889.1091 www.thecleanbedroom.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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letterfrompublisher

“T

he unfolding power, breadth, and depth of expertise and energy in Fairfield County is immense. Every contribution, large or small, helps us all to grow, evolve, transform and heal. Thank you for your participation in the amazing Natural Awakenings community.”

contact us Publisher/Managing Editor Nicole Miale Assistant Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Food Editor Analiese Paik Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Jaime A. Heidel Beth Leas Natasha Michaels Sales & Marketing Nicole Miale Francesca Moscatelli Analiese Paik Virginia Trinque Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2014 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.

I wrote those words in my first publisher’s letter, which appeared in the July 2013 issue, my first edition at the helm. This month is an anniversary for me and what a year it has been! I Nicole Miale had little sense when I wrote those sentences exactly how true my words were, how much power was contained in our area, waiting to be untapped and shared. I am profoundly grateful for the time-proven truth in my words and the community’s overwhelmingly positive response to the changes in the magazine and the direction we are headed in.

Never has it been more important for people to engage, question and reach up and out. This month, we illuminate some of our sobering food supply realities and spotlight national and local heroes tackling these issues in ways large and small. We are excited to “put a stake in the ground” with the introduction of our new monthly section, Fairfield Green Food Guide. Like the website by the same name, the guide will focus on local, sustainable food in our area, providing conscious consumers like yourselves with new access to those farms, markets, restaurants, and food-related businesses who are raising the standards. Run by the simply terrific Analiese Paik, the section is marked by the bright green page edges to make it easier for you to find. The Naturally Healthy Pet section – launched last November – continues to be marked by the lighter green page edges.

We will continue to expand on areas of interest and inquiry and make the magazine as accessible as possible. You can now find us in more than 1200 locations in the county, more than twice the number of places as this time last year!

Exciting new partnerships are in the works, expanding the Natural Awakenings presence even further.

“As I write the first of many letters to my new community, I am humbled and inspired by the power of this publication and honored its stewardship has come to me.” Twelve months later, I feel exactly the same way. I look forward to continuing to serve, connect, and empower the residents of Fairfield County as you strive for the best life experience you can have. Thank you for all you have already done to make this community resource powerful and stronger. Thank you for the things you are going to do in coming days to make your life and your community better and more authentic.

With love and light,

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $15 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Fairfield County Edition

new Fairfield Green Food Guide monthly section. Making it easier to find great,

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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See page 30 for Natural Awakenings’

local food you want to eat! natural awakenings

newsbriefs Russell Turk, MD, joins Stamford Health Integrated Practices

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fter working in private practice in Greenwich and Darien for 14 years, Russell Turk, MD, has joined Stamford Health Integrated Practices (SHIP). SHIP is Dr. Russell Turk an integrated physician network designed to provide patients with state-of-the-art medical care in a variety of medical specialties.

Turk will continue to work with his patients at his current office in Greenwich in addition to the new Stamford location.

“Joining SHIP will allow me to focus on providing medical care instead of handling all of the time-consuming, complex administrative duties involved with running a medical practice,” said Turk, who is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He founded Riverside OB/ GYN in 2004 and has been an attending physician at Stamford Hospital since 2000.

Turk will continue to provide full OB/GYN services for patients in a manner that embraces both traditional and holistic approaches. He has extensive training and interest in both high- and low-risk obstetrics (including VBACs), in-office ultrasound, minimally invasive surgery (including robotics) and menopausal consultation and treatments, including bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.

For more information, visit Riversideobgyn.com or call 203-637-3337. Stamford Health Integrated Practices accepts all major insurances and is currently accepting new patients. See ad, page 19.

››

Want to protect your family & pets from harsh chemicals?

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Concerned about the overuse of synthetic fertilizers & pesticides?

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Do You Suffer with Lower Back Pain, Neck, Arm, Leg Pain, or a Spine Pain Condition?

Let Cox® Technic Be Your Pain Relief Solution Cox®Technic Call Today for a Consultation

203-333-6544

Black Rock Holistic Health Center

825 Kings Highway East Fairfield, CT 06825

Non-surgical, doctor-controlled, hands-on, gentle spinal manipulation performed on The Cox Table

Dr. Kristine DeMarco Chiropractic Physician Musculoskeletal Care • Acute & Chronic Pain Graston Technique • Nutritional Consults Certified Acupuncturist

eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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newsbriefs Greenwich’s Popular Sidewalk Sale Days is Back!

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he Greenwich Chamber of Commerce will host 2014 Sidewalk Sale Days from July 10 through July 13 from 11am to 6pm. All stores and eateries on Greenwich Avenue and several side streets will participate in this sales event, which features bargains

from the avenue’s shops.

Eating Greenwich will also be presented July 9 through July 15, in conjunction with the 2014 Sidewalk Sale Days.

The dining event, promoted by the New England Culinary Group and the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce, will offer consumers specially discounted prices on prix fixe menus and special offers throughout the entire week at participating area restaurants.

For more information on Greenwich Chamber of Commerce events, visit Business.GreenwichChamber.com/Events.

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Elemental Workshop to Re-Connect with Nature

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ilton psychologist Ann Reeves will present the “Earth, Wind, Water, Fire ~ Reconnect with The Earth through the Elements of Nature” workshop on July 26 from 8:45am to 5pm at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown.

The class will focus on deepening an awareness of the healing gifts of the natural world.

Attendees will explore and reconnect with these elements in order to transform stress, feel more alive, and learn practical tools to use going forward. Reeves will work directly with each element in a slow, relaxed, experiential manner, incorporating grounding exercises, drumming, breathing, movement, meditation, poetry, and alone time outside.

A farm-fresh Sticks and Stones lunch will be provided.

The fee is $95.00 per person, including lunch.

For reservations or more information, call 203-270-8820 or visit SticksandStonesFarm.com for directions. Sticks and Stones Farm is located at 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.

CT NOFA and Winvian Team Up to Host Two Events

Be Allergy Free No Medication or Shots Needed!

“Eczema, gastric reflux, bloating, asthma, sinus conditions and digestive problems are often caused by food and chemical allergies.“ Seasonal, food, and environmental allergies can be eliminated with a revolutionary, noninvasive, child-friendly technique!

T

he Connecticut Chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (CT NOFA) will hold two events this month at Winvian resort in Morris. The second annual A Special Culinary Fundraiser will take place on July 18 from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, followed by A Summer Gathering: Growing Food, Farms & Community on July 19. Both events, hosted by CT NOFA and Winvian, will celebrate local foods and sustainable agriculture as well as the people and businesses that support them.

In addition to silent and live auctions, the July 18 evening fundraiser will feature Chris Eddy, executive chef and founder of Winvian’s food philosophy. Guests will be able to enjoy a variety of Chef Eddy’s signature appetizers and desserts, along with tastings from Winvian’s farm and other local farms. Claire Criscuolo of New Haven’s Claire’s Corner Copia will also be presented with the Organic Leadership Recognition Award. Net proceeds from this event will benefit CT NOFA.

The next day, on July 19, A Summer Gathering: Growing Food, Farms & Community, a family fun and educational event will take place from 9:30am to 5pm. The day will feature interactive children’s activities, educational workshops for young adults on new food-related career opportunities, food trucks and local vendors and exhibitors. Keynote addresses will be given by Joan Dye Gussow, a Columbia University professor emeritus, organic gardener and writer, and Richard McCarthy, executive director of Slow Food USA. Workshop presenters include Tara Cook-Littman of GMO Free CT and ConnFact and Taylor Cocalis-Suarez, co-founder of Good Food Jobs.

For reservations and sponsorship opportunities, visit ctnofa. org/Winvian or call 203-308-2584. Advance reservations are required. See ad, page 32.

We are tied to the ocean.

And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch, we are going back from whence we came. ~John F. Kennedy

Enhance immune and digestive system function to assist the body in the natural healing process with computerized allergy testing, treatment, elimination, and enzyme therapy.

FREE E-Book: “How To Stop Suffering From Food Sensitivities, ‘Allergies’ and Digestion Problems” Download at: www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com

Call 203-838-1555 for a complimentary consultation

Dr. Mark Joachim Associates in Family Chiropractic 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com

Clinics Your Partners in Health and Wellness

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

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

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

UBRIRE380_natrl_Awkngs_Ad color PRINT.indd 1

July 2014

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4/6/10 4:58 PM

Are You A Fitness Instructor Without Your Own Space?

Space now available to lease on a regular weekly basis!

Prime location on the Post Road in the heart of Darien, Ct

For details call Ellen Mullen 203-615-2144

newsbriefs Empowering Through Beauty Expo 2014

Great New Equipment, Restroom, Waiting Area, & Parking

E

Karate

wiÂ? Sensei June Fagan

No ing is so strong as gentleness, No ing so gentle as real streng .

Karate • Weapons Forms • Kickboxing Summer Camps • Family Classes Classes offered for Children and Adults.

203-938-3690 Kempo Karate & Self Defense, Inc. 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896 For a schedule of classes visit www.Kindredspiritscenter.com and cli on e Karate tab

NEwTowN HyPNoSiS 31 Hawleyville Road Newtown, CT 203-641-5481 NewtownHypnosis.com

Ronna Brier, M.A., CH

Specializing in: • Hypnosis • Reiki • Shamanistic Healing • Neurolinguistic Programming • Emotional Freedom Technique • Metaphysical Hypnosis

Effective treatment for stress reduction, fears and phobias, weight loss, past life regression, communicating with spirit and animal guides.

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mpowering Through Beauty Expo 2014: A Celebration of Beauty will take place on July 26 from 5pm to 10pm at Stamford Old Town Hall.

The expo is designed to celebrate the intelligence, strength, courage and determination of women and girls, and the dynamic beauty professionals who inspire the community. The charity event is a fun-filled celebration of beauty, complete with celebrities, shopping, pampering and inspiration. It serves as a platform for beauty enthusiasts to celebrate, showcase their work, while creating a platform to honor beauty pros that have touched the lives of those in need.

All proceeds from Empowering Through Beauty Expo 2014: A Celebration Of Beauty will go to supporting the mission of Empowering Through Beauty Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by Tanisha Akinloye, to enrich lives through beauty.

For more information, visit etbExpo. com. Stamford Old Town Hall is located at 175 Atlantic St, Stamford.

An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind. ~Mahatma Gandhi

Free Library Lectures from SOPHIA Natural Health Center

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OPHIA Natural Health Center in Brookfield has announced two free lectures to be held at the New Milford Library on July 16 at 6:30pm and the C.H. Booth Library in Newtown on July 30 at 7pm. Kenneth Hoffman, SOPHIA’s medical director, will present an Introduction To Chinese Medicine and Women’s Health in conjunction with his first book, Essential Remedies For Women’s Health - What Every Woman Needs to Know to Heal, Prevent Chronic Disease, and Design a Plan for a Healthier Lifestyle.

The book, co-authored by Hoffman and 11 Connecticut natural health practitioners, will be available for purchase and signing.

Over 80 million women in the U.S. currently suffer with conditions such as PMS and hormone imbalance. Many are confused as to which health options are available or even right for them. Hoffman will speak about holistic approaches and natural alternatives to women’s health-related concerns such as hormone imbalances, menopause, osteoporosis, heart and breast health, weight loss and stress.

SOPHIA Natural Health Center, a natural health and wellness clinic, combines the traditional healing arts of Chinese medicine with modern science to help patients deal with women’s health issues, environmental allergies, food intolerances, chemical/environmental toxicity, and chronic inflammation and pain in the body.

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Judith Barr, LPC, LMhC ... hEaLiNG tO thE rOOt 30 Years Experience • Depth Psychotherapist • Spiritual Midwife Professional Training/Supervision • Speaker PO Box 603, Brookfield, CT 06804 • 203-775-5006 • JudithBarr@PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com

For reservations, call New Milford Library at 860-355-1191 or C.H. Booth Library at 203-426-4533. For more information, visit SophiaNaturalHealth.com. SOPHIA Natural Health Center is located at 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 73.

Buddhist Seminar: Resolving the Identity Project

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uddhist Lama Urgyan Zangpo and Jangchub Dorje, Ms Ed, LPC, will present a seminar on understanding the process of spiritual individuation at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown on Lama Urgyan Zangpo July 26 from 10am to 4pm. The semiand Jangchub Dorje nar will include in-depth teaching, an engaging dialogue with participants and brief meditations.

Dharma is the study of how we craft an identity for ourselves and cling to phenomena as we develop spiritually as individuals. The topics of this seminar focus on reconciling the issues of self, individuality, identity and the individuation process. The workshop fee is $125 per person. Attendees are asked to bring their own lunch and beverage For reservations, call 203-994-7295. Sticks and Stones Farm is located at 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. See ad, page 14. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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newsbriefs Answering the Call to Wholeness Develop Better Communication Through Dance at Wainwright House

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istar Foundation, FIONS and Wainwright House will present Answering the Call to Wholeness: From Isolation to Co-Creation on July 20 Wainright House from 10am to 5pm. Featuring visionaries, futurists, authors and leaders of 10 New York City spiritual organizations, the event will explore the power of wholeness for individuals, communities and the world.

Answering the Call to Wholeness will take place at Rye, New York’s Wainwright House. Presenters include the Academy of Future Science’s J.J. and Desiree Hurtak, Kurt Johnson, author of The Coming Interspiritual Age, Ron Friedman, co-founder of Vistar Foundation, and many others. Hosted

by Vistar Foundation Co-Founder Victoria Friedman, ceremonies, sound and live music will be offered by Jodi Serota, Dorothy Cunha and Kristin Hoffman. Wholesome food will also be available for purchase.

For more information, visit Wainwright.org. Wainwright House is located at 260 Stuyvesant Ave, Rye, NY.

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aria Fiora’s Dance Studio will host a special 3-part workshop series, Maria Fiora’s Beyond Words, on Wednesdays in July. Taking place on July 9, 16 and 23 at 8pm in Stamford, the workshops will focus on dancing as a way to communicate through the stress of life and other pressures to get back to a better connection and closeness with your partner. The evening will include dancing, wine and strawberries.

Maria Fiora, a dancer for more than 25 years, and her staff teach Latin dance, including salsa, bolero, Cuban rumba, bachata, merengue, samba, cumbia, mambo and Argentine tango. Rock and blues offerings include swing, lindy, slow dancing and club dancing freestyle. In addition to the more formal ballroom, foxtrot, waltz and tango dances, Maria Fiora’s Dance Studio teaches yoga and bellydancing.

For more information and reservations, visit DancewithMaria. com or call 203-353-4363. Maria Fiora’s Dance Studio is located at 456 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 13.

Finding More Referrals with Total Wellness Connect

Eyecare Associates, LLC E�������� P���������� T������ V����� www.cteyecareassociates.com

There’s More To Healthy Vision Than 20/20 Eyesight Eyes Are Important Indicators Of Overall Health • Comprehensive eye exams for all ages • High quality eyeglasses and specialty contact lenses • Exceptional treatment for eye diseases • LASIK and Refractive Surgery co-management • Solutions for dry eyes, computer use, and sports 3 Locations in Southern Fairfield County

6515 Main Street Trumbull, CT 06611 203-374-2020

T

otal Wellness Connect (TWC) is a new organization focused on connecting health and wellness professionals to each other and their local communities. TWC offers its members networking, social media advertising, educational and community events.

The organization also collaborates with local vendors to extend discounts on marketing material printing, mobile solutions, and other marketing services not included in TWC packages, such as business card design and website development.

Kristina Centnere, founder of TWC, currently holds TWC networking meetings every other Wednesday in Norwalk. Chapters or groups will soon be added in Fairfield, Stamford and Ridgefield. Similar to its event recently held on June 20th at the Steam Coffee Bar in the Westport Train Station, TWC will be holding quarterly events to give local health and wellness professionals exposure in their communities.

For more information on upcoming meetings and events, visit Total Wellness Connect at Facebook.com/ TotalWellnessConnect.

2600 Post Road Southport, CT 06890 203-255-4005

139 Main Street Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991

“Language Without Words”

Revitalize Your Relationship With Your Partner Learn To Reconnect Through Music and The Language Of Dance No experience in dance or music needed.

Just be willing to learn something new about yourself and each other!

Maria Fiora

Creative sessions to fit your schedule and needs, at our location or yours.

Dance Detective 203-570-5440

www.dancewithmaria.com

Free Open House Session – Call For Details!

456 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT

Beautiful Color Shouldn't Be Hazardous To Your Health

Have news to share?

Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit News Briefs.

Deadline: July 12

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

No Ammonia • No Parabens No Scalp Staining • No Scalp Discomfort Best Eco Salon

838 Main Street • Monroe • Tollgate Plaza Tues & Fri 9-5 • Wed & Thur 9-8 • Sat 8-4

203-261-2838 SalonAponte.com

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July 2014

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newsbriefs Living an Abundant Life LISA SINGLEY, N.D. Naturopathic Physician Natural Solutions to Endocrine Disorders Adrenal Fatigue • Thyroid Disorders • Insomnia Hormonal Imbalances • PCOS • Endometriosis Menopause • Weight Gain • Infertility • PMS Dysmenorrhea • Stress Management Schedule a Consultation And Receive 20% Off All Recommended Supplements.

We accept most health insurance plans!

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

L

isa Jacoby and Caroline Temple will present Living an Abundant Life on July 12 from 10am to 5pm at the Guest House Retreat Center in Chester. Using the core concepts of the presenters’ “What I Know to Be True” practice, attendees will explore Lisa Jacoby and turning inward for answers and Caroline Temple understanding to discover what it feels like to experience abundance in all aspects of life.

The day-long experiential workshop is designed to maximize individual transformation. Jacoby and Temple will share teachings and guided meditations with group, individual and dyad exercises, incorporating dialogue, writing, drawing and movement. Participants will also receive a copy of the presenters’ book, What I Know to Be True, Six Simple Words to Set You Free.

For more information, visit UnleashPotential.us or call 203-981-7092.

kudos

Buddhist Seminar

Resolving the Identity Project Understanding the Spiritual Individuation Process

Saturday, July 26, 2014 10:00 -4:00pm ~ $125 Seminar ~ Discussion ~ Meditation • How We Craft an Identity Project • The Spiritual Practitioner’s Sense of Self • Becoming Non-Divided with Wholeness Urgyan Zangpo is a Vajrayana Buddhist lama who was trained and ordained by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. He has taught and counseled dharma practitioners for many years. His passion is making Buddhism accessible, intelligible, and meaningful.

Alex Boianghu (Jangchub Dorje) is a devoted student of Vajrayana Buddhism. His passion is the integration of Buddhism and Western psychology. Alex is a licensed professional counselor in private practice at Insight Counseling.

STICKS AND STONES FARM

201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown, CT Limited space • Preregistration required 203-994-7295 • Bring Your Lunch and Beverage

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Citra-Solv Earns USDA Biobased Label

D

anbury-based Citra-Solv, LLC has secured the USDA Certified Biobased Product label for two of its products, verifying that the amount of renewable biobased ingredients meets or exceeds levels set by the USDA.

The USDA confirmed that Citra-Solv Natural Cleaner & Degreaser has 95 percent biobased content and Citra-Dish Natural Dishwashing Liquid has 89 percent. “Citra Solv prides itself on our commitment to the earth and maintaining a sustainable business and environment,” said Steve Zeitler, co-founder of Citra Solv, LLC. “Certification from the USDA confirms that commitment and helps reinforce the importance of using BioPreferred products.”

Biobased products are finished or intermediate materials composed in whole or in significant part of agricultural, forestry or marine ingredients. All biobased amount claims are verified by independent labs and monitored by the USDA. The USDA BioPreferred program was created to increase the purchase and use of biobased products. Products that meet the USDA BioPreferred program requirements carry a distinctive label for easier identification by the consumer.

To learn more about Citra Solv and the Home Solv product line, visit CitraSolv.com or call 800-343-6588.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Garden Gunk

Sewage Can Lurk in Bagged Fertilizers Bagged garden fertilizers help plants grow, but store-bought brands can be a scary mix of sewage sludge—treated human, industrial and hospital waste. No federal or state regulations require that sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, be listed on the label. Sludge can also be blended with more natural fertilizers without listing it as an ingredient.

Today’s testing requirements for waste sludge cover only 10 elements and two indicator bacteria; all other contaminants, pharmaceuticals and toxic chemicals that go down the drain of every home and business go right into the fertilizer.

Terms like “organic” and “natural” only apply to some food products, not compost or fertilizer. Arsenic and lead are both considered natural ingredients.

Toxins and heavy metals don’t disappear when exposed to sun or rain; they enter the soil or travel by wind and water runoff into yards and communities and can be absorbed in vegetables, plants and livestock. When we consume foods grown in sludge, we consume whatever the plant takes up from the soil. Also, elements like heavy metals collect in the meat, milk and fat of animals that are fed crops grown in sewage sludge.

To protect the family garden, call the fertilizer manufacturer before purchasing a product to verify ingredients.

Ask the nursery or store for labeling that depicts which products are sludgefree and also insist on their use at area schools, parks and playgrounds.

For more information, visit USludgeFree.org.

globalbriefs

Relaxing Rules

U.S. Organic Standards Under Siege

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

Farm Building

Training Programs Attract Young Farmers There’s little doubt that the nation needs more young farmers, because statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show the average American farmer is 58 years old. Hope lies in farm incubators that equip young agrarians with the technical skills and the business savvy needed to compete in the fierce, burgeoning market for locally grown produce.

At Kinsman Farm (KinsmanFarm.net), in Cleveland, the Ohio State University Extension gives would-be farmers quarter-acre starter plots and helps them develop business plans. Financial support is available, too. “The city of Cleveland recently received private funds to expand its Gardening for Greenbacks Program,” advises spokesperson Marie Barni. “Our urban farmers can now receive a $5,000 grant to help start their farming microenterprise.”

Some city planners have voiced considerable skepticism about whether urban farms are an effective tool for creating jobs and rebuilding economies like Cleveland’s, but advocates point to other farm incubators in North Carolina, Oregon and Rhode Island, as well as in Kansas City, Kansas, Holyoke, Massachusetts, St. Louis, Missouri, and Seattle, Washington.

In Chicago, students at the role model Windy City Harvest, coordinated by the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Richard J. Daley City College (ChicagoBotanic.org/ windycityharvest), engage in six months of hands-on horticulture training, and then a three-month paid internship with a farm or food justice organization.

Last September, without any public input, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), under pressure from corporations, changed the way the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) decides which non-organic materials are allowed in products labeled as Certified Organic, all but guaranteeing that when the NOSB meets every six months, the non-organic and synthetic materials allowed in organic items will increase.

Certain non-organic or synthetic materials can be used in up to 5 percent of a USDA Organic product, and in up to 30 percent of a Made with Organic Ingredients product. Look for the addition of carrageenan, synthetic nutrients such as DHA and ARA, sausage casings made from processed intestines, synthetic methionine, antibiotics and mutagens, among others.

Sign a petition in protest at Tinyurl. com/OrganicStandardsPetition.

Source: Emagazine.com

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Organizations worldwide are working to create a more sustainable and just food system. Food Tank lists 101 organizations to watch in 2014 (Tinyurl.com/FoodTank100). All are vital in creating a better food system. Here are a few examples.

Food MythBusters is telling the real story of how food is produced through short films, showing that we can have a food system that is truly affordable, delicious, fair and good for the planet.

Heifer International has been helping small farmers around the world practice better animal husbandry and develop more environmentally sustainable sources of food production for 70 years.

Oxfam, a confederation of 17 organizations worldwide, helps find lasting solutions to poverty and injustice. Oxfam America’s recent Behind the Brands campaign highlights how favorite consumer brands bring hidden costs to farmers, food security and the environment.

Real Food Challenge, started in 2008 mainly among students, aims to shift $1 billion of existing university food budgets from industrial farms and junk foods to community-based, fair, ecologically sound and humane food sources by 2020.

Seed Savers Exchange is dedicated to saving and sharing organic, heirloom and non-GMO (genetically modified organism) seeds.

Sperm Killer

Monsanto Roundup Herbicide May Cause Gene-ocide

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ruled to allow Roundup herbicide residues in food at concentrations a million times higher than levels already shown to be carcinogenic in cell research. Now a new study published in Free Radical Medicine & Biology adds to a growing body of research implicating the herbicide’s main ingredient, glyphosate, at concentration ranges well within the EPA “safe level” for food, in inhibiting male infertility.

Noting the research revealing Roundup’s toxicity to the germ line (sperm and egg) of animal species, the argument can be made that this chemical has contraceptive properties and therefore, genocidal consequences. By directly affecting the biologically immortal cells within the testes that contain DNA with more than 3 billion years worth of information essential for the future of the human species, Roundup could even be considered an instrument of mass destruction.

Minimally, the precautionary principle should be applied that any chemical with the potential to disrupt or destroy our species’ reproductive cells should be banned unless the manufacturer can prove its safety beyond a reasonable doubt.

Source: GreenMedInfo.com

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

~John Dewey

Food Transparency Vermont Demands GMO Labeling

Vermont Senator David Zuckerman and Representative Carolyn Partridge spearheaded efforts for Vermont to pass the nation’s first unrestricted mandatory labeling bill for genetically modified organisms (GMO). The state legislature’s collective efforts, lasting more than a decade, led to an unprecedented, game-changing new law signed by Governor Peter Shumlin on April 23.

Anticipating the current lawsuit by Monsanto and the Grocery Manufacturers Association, Vermont has set aside $10 million for legal fees. The Organic Manufacturers Association is working to expand funding behind Vermont’s defense because the outcome could affect all 50 states.

Unless legally overturned, starting July 1, 2016, products sold in Vermont that contain more than 0.9 percent GMO content contamination will require a statement on the label indicating that genetic engineering was used. Products that contain GMOs and are labeled as such cannot also label their products as “natural”. The bill, however, does not apply to labels for milk, eggs and meat from animals fed GMOs. Donate to Vermont’s defense fund at Tinyurl.com/ SupportGMOLabeling.

Seabirds’ Significance

Complex Interactions Help Cool the Planet Top predator species of the Southern Ocean, far-ranging seabirds, are tied to the health of the ecosystem and to global climate regulation through a mutual relationship with phytoplankton, according to a study from the University of California-Davis, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

When phytoplankton are eaten by grazing crustaceans called krill, they release a chemical signal that attracts krilleating birds. The chemical signal, dimethyl sulfide (DMS), forms sulfur compounds in the atmosphere that also promote cloud formation and help cool the planet.

Seabirds consuming the krill then fertilize the phytoplankton with iron, which is scarce in oceans. “The data is really striking,” says Gabrielle Nevitt, Ph.D., a professor of neurobiology, physiology and behavior at the university, who co-authored the paper. “This suggests that top marine predators are important in climate regulation, although they are mostly left out of climate models. More attention should be focused on how ecological systems impact climate.

Studying DMS as a signal molecule makes the connection.”

Source: Environmental News Network (enn.com)

eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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actionalert

Sneak Attack on Dietary Supplements

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According to Scott Tips, president and legal counsel for the National Health Federation (NHF), harmonized global standards are enabling overall reduced vitamin and mineral levels in pill and food form. In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed changes to both the current Nutrition Facts panel on food labels and Supplement Facts panel on dietary supplement labels that prompt concern.

“While the food industry, media and general public focus on the proposed format changes, new wording and label design, there’s a danger to our health in the FDA harmonizing our Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of vitamin and mineral levels down to the extremely low levels of the Codex Alimentarius, which our organization has fought against for more than a decade,” advises Tips.

Although a few RDIs have been raised, if the proposed rulemaking is adopted, the NHF anticipates that the FDA will work to conform other recommended nutrient values to those of Codex. Support for this projection is based on an October 11, 1995, FDA pronouncement in the Federal Register to harmonize its food laws with those of the rest of the world.

The deadline for citizens to submit comments to the FDA ended on June 2, but you can still write to the Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5360 Fishers Lane, Rm. 1061, Rockville, MD 20852.

Mention Docket No. FDA-2012-N-1210 and insist that the FDA cease pushing its harmonization agenda.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/NHFCaseForNutrients.

20

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

wisewords

Did the FDA declare war on the natural products industry in the 1990s?

James Gormley Takes On the FDA Why the Natural Health Movement Must Protect Itself

by Kathleen Barnes

J

ames Gormley, a leader of the natural health movement in the U.S. and an award-winning health journalist, is a passionate advocate for natural health.

For more than 20 years, he’s been at the forefront in the fight against government restriction of dietary supplements and for transparency in the food industry, and has twice participated in America’s trade delegation to the United Nations Codex Alimentarius Commission, advocating for health freedom.

Gormley’s editorial positions have included editor-in-chief of Better Nutrition and editorial director for the Vitamin Retailer Magazine Group.

He now serves as both vice president and senior policy advisor for Citizens for Health and as a scientific advisory board member with the Natural Health Research Institute.

His latest book, Health at Gunpoint: The FDA’s Silent War Against Health Freedom, poses a strong stance against government interference in our rights to information about and access to healthy food and supplements.

Why do you believe that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are tainted by special interests, particularly big companies in the pharmaceutical and food industries?

The FDA was created to address issues of food and drug contamination and adulteration. Dr. Harvey Wiley, the courageous first leader of its predecessor, the Bureau of Chemistry, expressed

his disgust with the unintended consequences in his 1929 book, The History of a Crime Against the Food Law: The Amazing Story of the National Food and Drugs Law Intended to Protect the Health of the People, Perverted to Protect Adulteration of Foods and Drugs.

The FDA has been beholden to drug companies for decades. Making the situation worse, a 2012 law loosened conflict of interest restrictions for FDA advisory panels. That has further weakened the agency’s review system and likely allowed more drugs with safety problems to gain marketing approval, according to an analysis published in the journal Science in 2013. In addition, 40 percent of the FDA’s last budget increase came from user fees on prescription drugs paid by the pharmaceutical giants.

The USDA has the potential to do much good, but is bogged down with politics and mandates to push questionable biotechnology.

With regard to the controversy over genetically modified organisms (GMO), are certain companies being given undue influence in national policy making?

Yes. A perfect example was the ability of Monsanto to block initiatives requiring labeling of food products that contain GMOs in California and Washington state. Monsanto and the food industry continue to leverage their considerable influence in the U.S. Congress to block such legislation on a national level, despite the massive outcry from consumers demanding to know the identity and origin of the food we eat.

The FDA conducted numerous and illegal raids on health food stores, supplement makers and practitioners. In an infamous barbaric raid on the clinic of integrative physician Dr. Jonathan Wright, in Tahoma, Washington, in 1992, agents and deputized officers converged with guns drawn, terrorizing patients and staff because Wright was giving his patients legal L-tryptophan supplements to help with sleep and mood. It was dubbed the “vitamin B-bust”. A federal grand jury declined to indict Wright on the charges stemming from the raid.

Current European Union and international codex policies maintain that most necessary nutrients can and should be obtained from foods, so they have dramatically limited the availability of many supplements.

Do you expect such a policy to become part of U.S. law?

These European policies fly in the face of reality and every major food study conducted since World War II. The superrefined, overly processed Western diet does not and cannot fully supply optimal levels of daily nutrients. The U.S. has made minor efforts to tread this dangerous path and been met with tremendous consumer outrage. Potential related laws and policies would have to make it past an avalanche of public comments.

What is the current status of the fight for health freedom, and what is your prognosis for the future?

Substantial threats to our health freedom still exist, but I am optimistic.

Three highly credible nonprofit organizations are leading the way: the Alliance for Natural Health, Citizens for Health and the National Health Federation. If consumers remain vigilant and stay informed on the issues identified by these advocates, we will be able to tackle and defeat threats to Americans’ health freedoms as they emerge.

Kathleen Barnes has authored many natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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Vitamin D or Not? A Natural Medicine Specialist’s Opinion

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

by Kenneth Hoffman

I • 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 22

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

t is not uncommon for vitamins and supplements to come under fire as either damaging or of no benefit at all when they are studied in conventional scientific studies. Often this is due to poor study design or poor quality products used in the studies so not a true reflection of the benefit of the supplement in question. For example, some vitamin E supplementation research studies reported that this nutrient could actually cause cancer. However, what wasn’t disclosed was that the type of vitamin E used was a synthetic, poorly produced brand. Studies with natural vitamin E were more favorable.

Frequently, such flawed research findings find their way to major media sources that publish the information as if to “warn” the public that they are being misled about supplement use. The latest vitamin to experience a high level of scrutiny resulting in confusing scientific study results

seems to be vitamin D, an essential nutrient needed by the body for multiple functions.

Vitamin D is critically important for strong bones. It allows for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for developing the structure and strength of bones. Vitamin D is also important for general good health, and researchers now are discovering that vitamin D may be important for many other reasons outside of good bone health. Research on the functions of the body supported by vitamin D includes the following: • Immune system, which helps you to fight infection • Muscle function • Cardiovascular function, for a healthy heart and circulation • Respiratory system –for healthy lungs and airways • Brain development • Anti-cancer effects

On January 24, 2014, a study was published in the journal, The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, with an accompanying editorial regarding vitamin D. The editorial says “the finding by Dr. Bolland and colleagues that future studies are not likely to change the recommendation that most people will not benefit from vitamin D supplements is ‘of particular interest.’ “

A counter response identifying the flaws of the Lancet article was put forth by Brant Cebulla from the Vitamin

Vitamin D is critically important for strong bones. It allows for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus...

D Council. The council was formed in 2003 by current Executive Director John J Cannell, MD, and serves as a center for public information and evidence-based vitamin D research.

The Vitamin D Council has published hundreds of well-researched articles on the vitamin’s benefits. Cebulla explains a number of reasons why the Lancet article fails to grasp the potential value of vitamin D.

Cebulla’s first point is that the Lancet piece was a review article rather than primary research. A review article is one in which the authors sort through and analyze all the research published to date, but do not conduct any new research. Cebulla stated that “Although the title of the paper claims that it was a systematic review, it’s not exactly a systematic review in the classic evidence-based medicine sense. Systematic reviews address a specific question – called a PICO question – asking how an exposure relates to an outcome or outcomes. That’s not what this paper did; there’s no clearly defined PICO question or questions.”

Cebulla notes that many studies of vitamin D showed potential benefit for certain diseases, but not enough largescale studies have been conducted.

However, several large scale studies are currently in process and expected to be completed in 2017.

In this author’s opinion, much of today’s research, editorialization and subsequent media magnification do a disservice to those who prescribe, use, need and benefit from vitamin D. A built-in bias to vitamins seems to exist in the mainstream media, who are quick to announce to the public the perceived failure of natural medicine while ignoring negative research about more conventional medicines such as vaccines and pharmaceutical products.

Until more information becomes clear through proper scientific inquiry, educate yourself and have your vitamin D levels checked by a responsible and qualified natural medicine practitioner.

Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH, is medical director of SOPHIA Natural Health Center, a natural medicine practice located in Brookfield. For more information, visit SophiaNaturalHealth.com or call 203-740-9300. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 73.

For more information on vitamin D, visit VitaminDCouncil.org/Blog/a-Look-atthe-Recent-Lancet-Review-Study/#.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN)

by Nicole Miale

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Fairfield County Edition

Open Every Day Until 5:30

natural awakenings

oan Palmer, founder and director of the Institute of Sustainable Nutrition, first moved to New England from California when she was 16 and still identifies with those formative seasons of year-round access to fresh fruits and vegetables. “Even after all this time, I still hear, ‘you’re not from around here, are you?’,” she says. As a teen, Palmer knew she needed and wanted to live close to nature; she had plants inside and a garden outside from as far back as she can remember. “Who we are and what we’re passionate about usually comes to us in small bits,” Palmer says. “That’s how it has been for me. The growing of plants, the ritual of food and sharing of food has always been instrumental in my life. That’s what I want to share now at the Institute.”

The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition, housed at Holcomb Farm in West Granby, Connecticut, is the educational program Palmer was hoping to find when she was going to school. It didn’t exist then. Palmer launched TIOSN after working as a certified high school teacher for many years,

“I knew this school was needed because so many of us wanted it. I met all these TGI colleagues who wanted it too, so what was I waiting for?” obtaining a master’s degree in nutrition, and gaining experience teaching an Art and Science of Eating module to graduate students at The Graduate Institute (TGI) in Bethany, Connecticut, and with interns at her home. “All the experiences I had gave me the confidence to trust my intuition,” she explains. “I knew this school was needed because so many of us wanted it. I met all these TGI colleagues who wanted it too, so what was I waiting for?”

The institute offers a one-year certification program in sustainable health and nutrition. The first TIOSN class is about to graduate after beginning in September 2013 with 15 students. The size of the farm’s kitchen limits the size of classes for now, making the experience a personal and impactful one.

“There is a real sense of community and intimacy that would be hard to replicate if the school grows too large,” Palmer muses. The format of the program is highly interactive and involves everything from the science of the human body and the soil, to tending a backyard beehive, to preparing meals with classmates and instructors, making kitchen medicine from plants and herbs grown at the farm and tended by students, and foraging. “You don’t teach about nutrition without teaching about plants and soil,” Palmer says. “Where the food comes from is often overlooked, but is critical to understanding what happens next in the body.”

To cover its diverse curriculum, TIOSN has four expert instructors present for all classes, which take place one weekend a month. This holistic teaching model provides students with a more cohesive and comprehensive experience. In addition to Palmer, instructors include Terry Walters, the author of Clean Food and Clean Start cookbooks, Alison Birks, MS, AHG, CNS, a nutritionist and herbal medicine expert, and

Nigel Palmer, a soil, bee-keeping, and outdoor expert.

“We are including classwork along with the hands-on components of fieldwork, time creating in the kitchen, and practices to take home and incorporate into daily life,” Palmer explains. “We are teaching about the science of nutrition, and also about food on a deep and fundamental level.”

It is Palmer’s intention that this program will empower people with the information and tools they need to bring more awareness to their food and life practices.

“Not that everyone needs to be a

gardener or forager,” she says, “but there is great freedom and empowerment in understanding our health and the world around us that these practices offer.”

For more information, call 860-7649070 or visit tiosn.com. TIOSN is now accepting applications for the 2014/2015 certification program.

Nicole Miale is the Publisher and Managing Editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County and a former student of Joan Palmer’s while a colleague at The Graduate Institute.

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photo by Dan Hemmelgarn

Diana and Dick Dyer

STEWARDS OF EARTH’S BOUNTY

Organic Farmers Sow Seeds of Change

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

F

RCSMonta Photo by N

na Library

rom epidemic childhood obesity and rising rates of autism and food allergies to the growing risks of pesticides and climate change, we have many reasons to be concerned about the American food system. Fortunately, many heroes among us—family farmers, community gardeners, visionaries and activists—are striving to create a safer and healthier environment now that will benefit future generations. Recognizing and celebrating their stellar Earth stewardship in this 2014 International Year of Family Farmers, Natural Awakenings is spotlighting examples of the current crop of heroes

Anna Jones-Crabtree 26

Fairfield County Edition

providing inspiration and hope. They are changing America’s landscape and the way we think about the ability of good food to feed the future well.

Doug Crabtree and Anna Jones-Crabtree, of Vilicus Farms, in Havre, Montana, are reviving crop biodiversity and pollinator habitat on their organic farm in northern Montana. “We strive to farm in a manner that works in concert with nature,” Doug explains.

The couple’s actions live up to their farm’s Latin name, which means “steward”. They grow 15 nourishing crops on 1,200 acres, including flax, buckwheat, sunflower, safflower, spelt, oats, barley and lentils, without pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilizers.

By imitating natural systems, planting diverse crops and avoiding damaging chemical inputs, they are attracting diverse native pollinators, he notes. Their approach to farming helps protect area groundwater, streams, rivers and even oceans for future generations.

Dick and Diana Dyer, of Dyer Family Organic Farm, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, finally realized their lifelong dream to farm in 2009, each at the age

natural awakenings

of 59. The couple grows more than 40 varieties of garlic on 15 acres; they also grow hops and care for honeybees. In addition, they provide hands-in-the-soil training to a new generation of dietetic interns across the country through their School to Farm program, in association with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Diana, a registered dietitian, teaches her students to take the, “We are what we eat” adage a step further. She believes, we are what we grow.

“Like nearly everyone else, most dietetic students are disconnected from Mother Earth, the source of the food they eat. They don’t learn the vital connections between soil, food and health,” says Diana. During a stay on the Dyer farm, she explains, “The students begin to understand how their food and nutrition recommendations to others can help drive an entire agricultural system that promotes and protects our soil and water, natural resources and public health.” It all aligns with practicing their family farm motto: Shaping our future from the ground up.

Mary Jo and Luverne Forbord, of Prairie Horizons Farm, in Starbuck, Minnesota, raise Black Angus cattle, grazed on certified organic, restored, native prairie pastures. Mary Jo, a registered dietitian, welcomes dietetic students to the 480-acre farm to learn where food comes from and how to grow it without the pesticides that contribute to farmers’ higher risk for certain cancers.

“We must know the true cost of cheap food,” she insists.

Most recently, they planted an organic orchard in memory of their son, Joraan, who died of cancer in

photo by Dan Hemmelgarn

photo by Dan Hem

photo by Dan Hemmelgarn

melgarn

2010 at the age of 23. to learn Joraan’s orchard is home where their to thriving, health-supfood comes porting apple, apricot, from and the cherry and plum trees, reasons fresh, plus native aronia organically berries. It also injects grown food fresh life into the comreally matters munity. Each spring, to our health,” the Forbords celebrate says Lanier. their son’s birthday However, by “waking up” his “This is just the orchard. His mother tip of the iceLuverne and Mary Jo Forbord explains: “People of all berg for us. Ulages gather—an assortment of timately, we’d our friends, Joraan’s friends and their like to be a chemical-free community growing families, neighbors, relatives, through advocating for reduction and co-workers, students and others—to elimination of pesticide and chemical keep his legacy growing. The incredible use in schools, hospitals, households community support keeps us going.” and local parks and ball fields.”

Lanier aims to help improve on Alabama’s low national ranking in the health of its residents. “I love our little piece of the world, and I want future generations to enjoy it without fearing that it’s making us sick,” she says. “We are intent on having a school garden in every school, and Tarrant Lanier, gardening with children at the we want to see area Center for Family and Community Development hospitals establish organic food gardens that support efforts Tarrant Lanier, of the Center for Family to make people healthier without the and Community Development (CFCD) use of heavy medications.” and Victory Teaching Farm, in Mobile,

Lanier further explains: “We see Alabama, wants all children to grow our victory as reducing hunger and inup in safe communities with access to creasing health and wellness, environplenty of wholesome food. After workmental sustainability and repair, coming for nearly two decades with some munity development and beautification, of South Alabama’s most vulnerable economic development and access to families, Lanier wanted to “provide locally grown food, by promoting and more than a crutch.” In 2009, she escreating a local food system.” tablished the nonprofit CFCD organization, dedicated to healthy living. Within Don Lareau and Daphne Yannakakis, of five years, she had assembled a small, Zephyros Farm and Garden, in Paonia, but hard-working staff that began build- Colorado, grow exquisite organic flowing community and school gardens and ers and vegetables for farmers’ markets creating collaborative partnerships. and community supported agriculture

Recently, the group established the members in Telluride and the RoarVictory Teaching Farm, the region’s first ing Fork Valley. Recently, the couple urban teaching farm and community decided to take fewer trips away from resource center. “The farm will serve their children and homestead, and as an onsite experience for children instead bring more people to their

Don Lareau

“Kids are shocked when they learn that carrots grow underground and surprised that milk comes from an udder, not a store shelf.” ~ Don Lareau 35-acre family farm to learn from the land and develop a refreshed sense of community.

From earthy farm dinners and elegant weddings to creative exploration camps for children and adults and an educational internship program, these family farmers are raising a new crop of consumers that value the land, their food and the people producing it. The

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couple hopes to help people learn how to grow and prepare their own food, plus gain a greater appreciation for organic farming.

“The people that come here fall into a farming lifestyle in tune with the sun and moon, the seasons and their inner clock—something valuable that has been lost in modern lifestyles,” notes Lareau, who especially loves sharing the magic of their farm with children.

“Kids are shocked when they learn that carrots grow underground and surprised that milk comes from an udder, not a store shelf.”

What we

achieve inwardly will change outer reality. ~Plutarch

Conscientious food of adventure that led her Klaas and Mary-Howell Martens, of Lakeview Orback to Alaska for nearly producers are ganic Grain, in Penn Yan, teachers, innovators, three decades, as a crew New York, grow a variety member and then a capenvironmental of grains, including wheat, tain in the Copper River stewards and spelt, barley, oats and tritiand Bristol Bay fisheries. change-makers cale, plus peas, dark red During that time, Moscreating a brighter ness became a passionate kidney beans and edamame soybeans, along advocate for protecting future for us all. with raising livestock on coastal communities and about 1,400 acres. Their family farm ecosystems. “Like farm families on land, philosophy entails looking at the world fishing families face many risks and unthrough a lens of abundance, rather certainties,” but she believes, “political than scarcity, and working in cooperaforces may be even more damaging to tion with their neighbors instead of our livelihoods and wild fish.” in competition. The result has been a

For example, “We are replicating groundswell of thriving organic farmsome of the worst practices of factory ers and a renewed sense of community farming on land in our marine environand economic strength throughout their ment with diseases, parasites and voluregion. minous amounts of pollution flushing

The Martens switched to organic into our coastal waters,” explains Mosfarming after Klaas experienced partial ness. She’s also concerned about the paralysis due to exposure to pesticides, U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s compounded by concern for the health potential approval of genetically engiof their three children. Because the neered (GMO) fish without adequate Martens work in alliance with nature, health and environmental assessments, they’ve learned to ask a unique set of and she works to support GMO labelquestions. For example, when Klaas ing so consumers can make informed sees a weed, he doesn’t ask, “What choices in the marketplace. can we spray to kill it?” but, “What was the environment that allowed the Melinda Hemmelgarn, aka the “food weed to grow?” sleuth”, is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and radio host Anne Mosness, in Bellingham, Washat KOPN.org, in Columbia, MO ington, began fishing for wild salmon (FoodSleuth@gmail.com). She with her father during one summer after advocates for organic farmers at college. The experience ignited a sense Enduring-Image.blogspot.com.

Hear from Two Heroes Tinyurl.com/KlaasMartensPartOne Tinyurl.com/KlaasMartensPartTwo Tinyurl.com/AnneMosness

Info on the Heroes and More Dyer Family Organic Farm: DyerFamilyOrganicFarm.com

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Fairfield County Edition

Prairie Horizons Farm: LocalFoods.umn.edu/PrairieHorizons Victory Teaching Farm: CFCDofAlabama.org Vilicus Farm: RootedMontana.com/Crabtrees.html (includes other vegetable and livestock farms in the state) Zephyros Farm and Garden: ZephyrosFarmAndGarden.com

Fish Farming: FoodAndWaterWatch.org/ Common-Resources/Fish/Fish-Farming

Support Hero Farmers

Lakeview Organic Grain and Greenmarket’s Regional Grains Project: LakeviewOrganicGrain.com and GrowNYC.org/Grains-Main

Farmer Veteran Coalition: FarmVetCo.org

natural awakenings

National Young Farmers Coalition: YoungFarmers.org

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foodguidenewsbriefs Ambler Farm’s Saturday Stand Opens for the Season

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mbler Farm in Wilton opened their farm stand for the season on June 12 and will be open every Saturday through mid-October (conditions permitting). This community farm is open to the public 365 days a year and follows organic growing practices. Crops available at the farm stand will vary each week and in high summer tables are piled high with freshly picked organic cucumbers, peppers, onions, summer squash, tomatoes, eggplant, beets, basil, cilantro, Swiss chard, garlic and more. Different grades of maple syrup made at the farm and other merchandise are also available for purchase. Cash, checks or credit cards are accepted.

Ambler Farm is also a vendor at the weekly Wilton Farmer’s Market, located at the Wilton Historical Society. Visit FairfieldGreenFoodGuide.com for a complete guide to all Fairfield County farmers’ markets and farm stands.

Your Local and Sustainable Food Destination

The stand hours are Saturdays from 9am-2pm. Ambler Farm is located at 257 Hurlbutt St, Wilton (please park by soccer field). Visit AmblerFarm.org for upcoming events at the farm including classes, dinners and workshops.

Bartaco Westport’s Chef Specials Feature Locally Grown Produce

Analiese Paik, Food Editor

T

News, articles, resources, events... all dedicated exclusively to local and sustainable food in Fairfield County.

For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call

203-520-3451 or email Analiese@snet.net

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Fairfield County Edition

he regular menu at bartaco offers small plates rooted in Mexican tradition, incorporating bold, spicy flavors from Asia, the Mediterranean and beyond.

Inspiration for weekly chef specials at bartaco Westport, however, comes from Fairfield County’s flourishing local food movement.

Each Thursday, Executive Chef Michael Hazen shops the Westport Farmers’ Market where the season’s Bartaco Exec Chef bounty inspires his “market” specials. Tacos, salads Michael Hazen and other dishes appear on the menu that day and are shopping Westport offered until they sell out. Chef Hazen, formerly execuFarmers' Market tive chef at Barcelona New Haven and the original Barcelona in South Norwalk, brings a fresh eye and a keen focus to seasonal cooking with honest, simple, clean flavors. For example, in early June, a salad of rainbow chard, radishes, bok choy and scallions sourced from Sport Hill Farm in Easton and Fort Hill Farm in New Milford was simply dressed in an Asian vinaigrette of soy sauce and sesame oil flecked with black sesame seeds.

Chef Hazen will offer chef specials featuring ingredients from the Westport Farmers’ Market through the fall.

For more information, visit bartaco.com or call 203-222-8226. Bartaco Westport is located at 20 Wilton Rd, Westport.

natural awakenings

Fresh Nation Delivers Westport Farmers’ Market Goods

F

resh Nation, the online marketplace for farmers’ markets, and Westport Farmers’ Market have formed a strategic partnership to provide online shopping and home delivery. Fresh Nation operates an online storefront for the Market, providing local consumers with the ability to place an online order from many of their favorite Market vendors and receive same day home delivery from a Fresh Nation personal shopper.

“We are excited to work with Westport Farmers’ Market as together we connect farmers and foodmakers with consumers who love to eat fresh, locally grown food,” said Antony Lee, CEO and Founder of Fresh Nation. “As consumers become more aware about what they eat and where their food comes from, neighborhood farmers markets are an important and trusted resource where people can buy the best quality foods. Unfortunately, many do not have time to go to their farmers’ market, but by partnering with the Westport Farmers’ Market and bringing Market vendors online, Fresh Nation is ensuring that consumers can still buy directly from their local farmers and food artisans.”

Fresh Nation’s prices are the same as those charged in the Market and the delivery fee is $5. Visit FreshNation.com.

The Common Bond Market Opens in Shelton

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he Common Bond Market, an independent, full service, natural food store, has opened in the space formerly occupied by Beechwood Market in Shelton. After months of renovations, the store is now stocked with a wide selection of produce, grocery, refrigerated, and frozen items, supplements, prepared food and deli items.

“We have served the community of New Haven County for 17 years as Thyme & Season. Now, we are ready to serve Fairfield County as The Common Bond Market,” said coowner Josh Elliott. “Already the community has embraced us and we are excited to be right around the corner whether you need a good multi-vitamin, or you just need a gallon of milk. As we continue stocking our shelves, we are taking requests from our customers about what they would like to see on the shelves, and we are planning on promoting as much local product as we possibly can! Come see what we are all about - you may end up being our next regular.”

Nature’s Temptations

Your HealTHY FooD MarKeT

where community and healthy food is our priority

orgaNic • local • SuSTaiNable Produce • Meats & Seafood • Bulk Foods Juice Bar • Cafe • Prepared Foods • Deli Vitamins • Health & Beauty • Well Baby Catering for all Occasions

naturestemptations.com

The Common Bond Market is located at 40 Huntington St in Shelton. Hours are 8am-8pm Monday through Saturday, and 9am-6pm on Sunday. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Step Into the Quiet of the Woods at Sticks & Stones to experience this working Farm, Educational and Retreat Center

foodguidenewsbriefs Dinners at the Farm Announces Eighth Season

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• Cabin & Houseboat Rentals • Food Vendors: Newly Licensed Commercial Kitchen for Rent • Nature Summer Camps, Educational Workshops, Day Retreats Yoga, Drum Circles, Ukulele Club, Foraging & more • Organic Farm Stand • Moss, Stone, Native Plants, Garden Benches, Sculptures • Chartre Labyrinth, 10 Acre Moss Mountain Stroll Garden • Holistic Health Coach, CIA Trained Chef Wellness Cooking Classes, Transformational Weight Loss • Farm Available for Benefits, Special Events, Weddings

201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown • 203.270.8820

SticksAndStonesFarm.com

inners at the Farm is a series of farm-to-table, community dinners held outdoors on select Connecticut farms every July and August since 2007. These dinners are a mecca for local food lovers in search of a unique, seasonal meal enjoyed at the source.

For 2014, Dinners at the Farm will be held at two organic Connecticut farms: Barberry Hill Farm in Madison and White Gate Farm in East Lyme. Tickets start at $100 per person. The event begins at 6pm with a cocktail and farm tour with a community-table style dinner at 7pm.

Dinners at the Farm events are fundraisers for the organizations working to preserve farmland and create a more equitable food system – Working Lands Alliance, CitySeed, The New Connecticut Farmers Alliance, Region 4 Schools and Connecticut Farmland Trust.

Visit DinnersAtTheFarm.com for schedules and online ticket sales.

Black Rock Farmers’ Market Launches

M A Special Culinary Fundraiser Friday, July 18, 2014 6:30 – 9:30 pm Winvian, Morris CT

Signature Appetizers and Desserts • Wines/Beverages • Live & Silent Auction • Valet Parking

A Summer Gathering

Growing Food, Farms & Community

Saturday, July 19, 2014 9:30 am – 5:00 pm Children’s Activities • Workshops • Farmers Market

Keynotes

Joan Dye Gussow, Professor Emeritus Columbia University, author and organic gardener Richard McCarthy, Executive Director Slow Food USA

Workshops Tara Cook-Littman, GMO Free CT & ConnFact Taylor Cocalis Suarez, Co-founder, Good Food Jobs, goodfoodjobs.com

Parking is only at Bethlehem Fairgrounds with a 3 min. Shuttle Bus

Have Fun, Learn, Return to Good Food Traditions

ctnofa.org/winvian 32

Fairfield County Edition

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ore than 25 vendors are participating in the new Black Rock Farmers’ Market, some on a rotating basis. Opening day, June 7, brought so many shoppers that vendors were selling out by mid-morning. “It’s better than I ever dreamed” said cofounder Karyn Leito. “To have the community support it this way is a blessing. It’s like a dream come true.”

Sport Hill Farm is the anchor organic farm, supplying produce, herbs and some late season ground fruit. The market also serves as a pick up point for the farm’s (CSA) program.

Organic shoppers will enjoy Shearwater Coffee Roaster’s organic, locally-roasted coffee; GourGanics Salsa made from local, organic produce; 8 to the Bar’s organic granola bars; Source Coffeehouse’s fresh-brewed organic coffee; and Sabita’s artisanal organic teas blended to support holistic health.

Black Rock Farmers’ Market is held each Saturday through October 25, from 9am-1pm, at the field at St. Ann Church located at 481 Brewster St in the Black Rock neighborhood of Bridgeport. Businesses interested in becoming a vendor should contact market masters Michelle Margo and Karyn Leito at Director@BlackRockFarmersMarket.com or visit them online at BlackRockFarmersMarket.com. Musicians welcome.

Small Organic Farms, Big Ideas in Fairfield County

by Eileen Weber

F

arming is making a comeback across the nation. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2012 figures, the state of Connecticut has had a 60 percent increase in the number of farms since 1982. Of those farms, women operators make up 25 percent, which is

up 2 percent in the last seven years.

Fairfield County is home to several organic farms, some of which have been in the same family for generations while others are new urban farms.

Many of them boast successful Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

programs with long waiting lists.

Farming for a living is hard work, particularly for older farmers. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average farmer is close to 60 years old. However, more young people seem to be taking an interest in this profession. “We are seeing a much younger audience that is far more cognizant of health issues as to what they should eat,” says John Holbrook from Bethel’s Holbrook Farm. “More and more young people are going into farming [as a way of life].”

Holbrook, who has been farming for the last 40 years, holds workshops for a number of area school programs, including Yale University’s Sustainable Food Project. Other schools, such as Quinnipiac University and Western Connecticut State University, integrate his organic produce into their cafeteria meals.

Holbrook’s farm is one of many in this region that practices organically with a Farmer’s Pledge from the Connecticut Chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (CT NOFA) but is not USDA-certified organic. A common complaint of many farmers is the amount of paperwork and red tape that is involved

Thousands of Years of Food Wisdom in Twelve Months The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition Offering a one-year Certification Program in Sustainable Health & Nutrition This innovative school integrates the Science of Nutrition with:

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Moving into the Kitchen to create delicious food

Using Food and Herbs to make Kitchen Medicine

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Embark on this life-altering journey and be part of the movement to change the paradigm of our food for future generations.

Join our experienced staff one weekend a month as you use hands on education to delve into and explore diverse aspects of how food and herbs enhance the health of your clients, friends, family, and yourself.

Call 860-764-9070 Today. Now Accepting Applications for 2014/2015 Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Rd., West Granby, CT • www.tiosn.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

33

with becoming a USDA-certified organic farm.

Other local farms do fulfill the requirements to be certified as organic. Dina Brewster, a former teacher and Ivy League graduate who owns and farms The Hickories in Ridgefield, says teaching got her accustomed to the paperwork. In her opinion, the paperwork, which requires filling out forms and keeping a daily log of farm activity, is not overly burdensome.

On the other hand, Brewster says the challenges she finds taxing are the economic hardships of farming. “Farming like your grandmother is nostalgic but not realistic,” she explains. “That’s the real challenge. Farmers should be making three times what they actually make based on how hard they work. Frankly, I’d make more money working at Starbucks.”

The main source of income for for-profit farms is the sale of produce at farm stands and farmers’ markets. The average consumer may forget that aspect and wonder why their purchase is often more expensive, Brewster reflects.

The health of the soil is another obstacle that farmers need to contend with. The Hickories has been deemed usable farmland for 250 years. In that time, the soil wasn’t always tilled for profit. To become an organic farm – starting out on one acre and jumping to 30 – the soil had to be rebuilt. In order to do so, massive quantities of compost were used to refertilize the soil to make the pH levels optimal for growing.

Randy Brown, better known as “Uncle Buck,” had a similar soil problem with the land he farms. It took over a year to bring the soil back to good growing levels at Hubbard Heights Farm, a semi-urban farm situated near down-

The First and Only USDA Certified Organic Coffee Roaster in Fairfield County USDA Certified Organic Small Batch Roasted in Trumbull, CT

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www.shearwatercoffeeroasters.com 34

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

town Stamford with a greenhouse and planted crops. The land, originally intended to be a housing development, was offered to Brown by owner Bruce Sclafani of Sclafani Foods when the deal fell through. Brown brought in a considerable amount of compost, turning the soil over and adding more compost frequently to finally get the soil to support growth.

“Farming is a very unique occupation,” said Mike Aitkenhead, program director at Wakeman Town Farm in Westport. “If none of my cucumbers or squash grow this year, it makes you realize how much is at stake. It has forced a deeper appreciation of how things grow.”

The local proverb about New England’s weather conditions, “Don’t like the weather? Wait five minutes,” reflects another issue community farmers need to contend with. One day there is a record high temperature followed the next day by near freezing temperatures at night. “These extremes can really wreak havoc on us farmers. I think you’re going to see more greenhouse growing [in the future] as a result,” says Patti Popp of Sport Hill Farm in Easton.

Local farmers are also frustrated by competing with farms that plant a small amount of crops, form a CSA, and pick up the rest of their produce wholesale and sell that to consumers as their own. “They take the easy way out,” says Popp. “It’s rampant in our area and it’s frustrating as a farmer.” A clear sign that a farm stand is selling wholesale produce is when the food is out of season. Popp points out that many people have lost touch with the food system and do not recognize the seasonality of regional produce. “It’s not Farmville,” she declares. “It’s real life.”

To get their communities more involved, many local farms have become “educational farms,” running workshops, summer camps for children and special events in addition to growing produce. Apprenticeship program and internships are also becoming more common. Ambler Farm in Wilton incorporated Program Manager Kevin Meehan’s 20 years of experience as a Wilton teacher with the vast farming experience of Director of Agriculture Jonathan Kirschner, to educate community members. “We have so many loyal people because they were part of the process,” says Meehan. “It’s about the experience.”

Westport’s Belta’s Farm has grown in a similar way.

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, they’ve developed a regular following at their farm stand. “That’s what people are looking for,” said Angela Belta, who runs the stand with her family. “It’s fresh, it doesn’t go on a truck, and it was picked just a few hours ago.”

Supporting the farms in Fairfield County is a responsibility community members should take seriously. Every time you stop by a farm stand, join a CSA, participate in an event, or sign up your kids for summer farm camp, you are supporting the people who put food on your table. The growing season is here. Which farm will you visit this summer?

Eileen Weber is a Fairfield-based freelance writer with a master’s degree in journalism and a professional background in publishing. She has written numerous articles for magazines, newspapers, newsletters and websites, including the Fairfield Green Food Guide.

localfarmsguide Plan a visit to these local organic farms for unique produce and programs.

Ambler Farm 257 Hurlbutt Rd, Wilton 203-834-1143 AmblerFarm@gmail.com AmblerFarm.org • Farm stand, Saturdays 9am-2pm • Summer farm camp, Pre-K and K-7 • Farm Apprentice Program • Farm-to-table special events • Maple sugaring • Live animals (sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens and bees) • Facility rental available • Dog-friendly • Organic practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge • Non-profit funded

Holbrook Farm 45 Turkey Plain Rd, Bethel 203-792-0561 Info@HolbrookFarm.net HolbrookFarm.net •Farm Market and bakery, Monday Saturday, 9am-6pm • Eggs from free-range chickens • Produce available through CT Farm Fresh Express • Educational workshops • Farm-to-table dinners • Live animals (chickens, cats) • Organic practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge • For-profit farm

Belta’s Farm 128 Bayberry Lane, Westport 203-454-2293 BeltasFarm@gmail.com BeltasFarm.org • Farm stand, Saturdays 10am-3pm • Organic practices, CSA • For-profit farm

Hubbard Heights 202 Hubbard Ave, Stamford HubbardHeightsFarm@outlook.com HubbardHeightsFarm.com • Farm stand, open Tuesday-Friday 2-6pm and Weekends 10am-4pm, closed Mondays • Greenhouse • Hybrid heirloom tomatoes • Organic practices, CSA • For-profit farm

Garden of Ideas 647 North Salem Rd, Ridgefield 203-431-9914 FriendsofGOI@gmail.com GardenofIdeas.com • Farm stand, 8am-dusk daily, April-November • Botanical gardens and garden tours • Educational workshops • Art gallery • Organic practices, CSA • Non-profit funded The Hickories 136 Lounsbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-894-1851 Info@TheHickories.org TheHickories.org • Farm store, open 7 days a week 11am-6pm • Pasture raised meat (chicken, pigs, goats, sheep) • Farm tours and field trips • Seedlings for farmers and gardeners • Farm-to-table and special events • Produce available at Le Farm and The Whelk • USDA Certified Organic, CSA • For-profit farm

• Cabin and tent platform rentals (CT and HI locations) • Labyrinth, Hiking trails • Organic practices • For-profit farm Wakeman Town Farm 134 Cross Highway, Westport 203-557-9195 WakemanTownFarm@gmail.com WakemanTownFarm.org • Homestead, open to the public • Animal husbandry • CSA pick up location for Sport Hill Farm and Stone Gardens Farm • Solar and wind technologies • Apprentice Program, After-school programs, Mommy & Me classes • Summer farm camp, Pre-K and K-10 • Adult Educational Workshop series • Land stewardship • Live animals (goats, chickens) • Farm tours, Farm-to-table dinners and special events • Volunteer Advisory Board • Organic and sustainable practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge • For-profit educational farming demonstration facility

Sport Hill Farm 596 Sport Hill Rd, Easton FarmGal596@gmail.com SportHillFarm.com • Market open Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Wednesday open until 7pm, Sunday 11am-5pm • Farm camp (at The Unquowa School in Fairfield, preschool and K-6) • Cash Crop Program • Wholesale for chefs and caterers • Eggs from pasture-raised chickens • Seasonal events • Organic practices, no GMOs, CSA • For-profit farm Stick and Stones Farm 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown 203-270-8820 SandsFarm@aol.com SticksAndStonesFarm.com • Moss and stone harvesting • Moss and stone shop • Organic garden • Apprentice program eNaturalAwakenings.com

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foodguidefarmtodoorserviceprofiles CT Farm Fresh Express, LLC

Fresh Nation

24 Mount Parnassus Rd, Unit 15 860-873-8760 • ctffe@me.com • CTFarmFreshStore.com Facebook: CT Farm Fresh Express Twitter: ctfarmfresh

68 Southfield Ave, 2 Stamford Landing, Ste 100, Stamford 203-921-0318 Info@FreshNation.com • FreshNation.com Facebook: Facebook.com/TheFreshNation Twitter: Twitter.com/FreshNationNYCT

Please describe your business: In business for over 6 years, CT Farm Fresh Express (CTFFE) is the oldest online yearround store which connects Connecticut farms to customers throughout the state. CTFFE is a personalized solution to the farmers’ market consumer with little time to shop.

Who are your customers and why do they use your service?

The CTFFE customer is as diverse as the “strapped-for-time” working mother who can’t make it to the farmers’ markets; to the produce-buyer from a village market; to the young couple who love the convenience of purchasing local, healthy, GMO-free food online with delivery to their doorstep. Many of our customers shop with us every week.

How many farms do you source from and how diverse are your offerings?

CTFFE sources from up to 60 farms across the state with more than 2,500 seasonal and constantly changing product offerings. The diversity is all-inclusive: from dairy, seafood, free-range meats to prepared foods, produce, baked goods, frozen items, harvest boxes and CSA delivery.

How do customers place orders and what is the delivery process?

The CTFFE online store is open from Thursday to Tuesday mornings with no minimums, complete customization and personalization, and delivery fees based upon zip codes. Our dedicated team of drivers delivers each Thursday, 52 weeks a year, either unpacking your order with you or placing a professionally-packed cooler on your doorstep – your choice.

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

Because of CTFFE’s long relationship with our farmers and artisans, they select the freshest products for us to deliver to customers across the state every week.

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Please describe your business: We enable our customers to place online orders five days a week for food from the best farmers’ markets in Fairfield County.

Then we deliver the orders to their homes and offices direct from the market.

Who are your customers and why do they use your service?

Customers use our service because they want the freshest local food but often cannot get to the market themselves, so ordering online for home delivery is easy and convenient.

How many farms do you source from and how diverse are your offerings?

We buy from most vendors in most of the larger farmers’ markets in Fairfield County, so we offer the fullest range of produce, meat, poultry, dairy, baked goods and prepared foods, direct to you from the market.

How do customers place orders and what is the delivery process?

Customers place orders by going online to FreshNation.com and choosing a delivery date. Our personal food shoppers then go to the market on their behalf, select their order, and deliver it direct to their home or office.

What makes your service unique?

Fresh Nation is the first service to offer online ordering from local farmers’ markets, and home delivery of customer orders direct from the market, picked by trained personal food shoppers. The widest range of food is available five days a week.

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

We are the only food delivery service that directly supports local farmers’ markets.

foodguidefarmtodoorserviceprofiles Mike’s Organic Delivery

Simple Scallion

43 Sterling Rd, Greenwich 203-832-3000 • Mike@MikesOrganicDelivery.com MikesOrganicDelivery.com Facebook: Facebook.com/MikesOrganicDelivery Twitter: Twitter.com/mod_ct

10 Green St, Vergennes, VT 888-934-7293 Eat@SimpleScallion.com • SimpleScallion.com Facebook: Facebook.com/SimpleScallion Twitter: Twitter.com/SimpleScallion

Please describe your business: Mike’s Organic is a home delivery service bringing farm-fresh, local foods directly to people’s homes or office. We deliver to lower Fairfield County and upper Westchester County.

Who are your customers and why do they use your service?

Our customers range from busy working people to young moms with small children at home to anyone interested in where their food is being grown and having it delivered on a weekly basis.

How many farms do you source from and how diverse are your offerings?

We currently work with 16 small New York and Connecticut farms. We sell certified organic/best practice, pasture-raised beef, pork, chicken and lamb as well as wild Alaskan fish, fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese and raw honey.

How do customers place orders and what is the delivery process?

We are flexible and accommodating! Customers can order on a week-to-week basis or sign up for a full season package.

We will bring all your goodies inside for you or just leave a cooler by the door.

What makes your service unique?

We are friendly, knowledgeable, have close personal relationships with every farmer, send recipes, and source the freshest, cleanest, most delicious local food. We love what we do!

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

Mike’s Organic has been in business for five years. We are committed to sourcing the finest local goodies and helping to support our local farmers who work hard to grow amazing food for us! We are not a delivery service; we are a direct connection between you and the farmers.

Please describe your business: Simple Scallion is the re-branded Graze Delivered, an online delivery business that has been serving areas of New England for three years. Our mission is to help customers get their families back to the dinner table without the hassle by delivering fresh, wholesome food directly from our Vermont farms and kitchen. Our service lets customers stock the pantry and plan meals easily, whether they cook it themselves with our recipe-ready, prepped ingredients or we cook it for them!

Who are your customers and why do they use your service?

Our customers are busy families who want to know where their food comes from. They want fresh, nutritious food, and services that make life a little simpler.

How many farms do you source from and how diverse are your offerings?

We work with dozens of Vermont family farms committed to providing nourishing, sustainably-produced food. We offer meat, dairy, produce and bakery and grocery products, along with ready-to-assemble and ready-to-serve meals.

How do customers place orders and what is the delivery process?

Customers can set up standing weekly orders, or order occasionally—without being locked into a CSA or subscription.

The order deadline is Thursday, and we deliver Mondays by 6am. The minimum order is $35. Direct-to-doorstep delivery is free.

What makes your service unique?

In addition to direct farm-to-table grocery, we offer completely prepped, ready-to-assemble meals with family recipes, as well as ready-to-serve meals to pop in the oven.

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

Check out our growing ready-to-cook, family experience!

Bring time back to family time.

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July 2014

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consciouseating

Blending enough ingredients for two smoothies can yield a leftover serving to store in a reusable glass jar in the refrigerator. To reactivate the full taste later, just turn over the jar and give it a good shake to re-blend the ingredients.

Spirulina (made from a microsaltwater plant) and wheatgrass juice and powder are some popular smoothie additions. Milled flax seeds add healthy fat, but their water-soluble fiber also adds a little bulk; although the texture

Sunny-Day Sippers Black Cherry Raspberry

Summertime, and the Sippin’ is Easy

Quick and Cool Vegan Smoothies

by Judith Fertig

S

moothies offer big nutrition in a small package. Based on a vegan source of lean protein like coconut milk or yogurt, soy, chia seeds or a vegan protein powder made from dried beans or hemp, they can energize us for a full day of summer activities.

Other ingredients follow the peak of summer crops. Berries, greens, melon, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, celery, carrots and stone fruits like peaches and mangoes add antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. A tablespoon or two of milled flax seeds, hemp or nut butter adds richness to the flavor, while providing omega-3 fatty acids necessary for complete nutrition.

For the finale, add a touch of sweetness from fruits, maple syrup, agave nectar or stevia.

The best way to mix a smoothie is to start with either a liquid or an ingredient with a thicker consistency,

38

Fairfield County Edition

like yogurt, placed in a standard or high-speed performance blender. Next, add the desired fruits or vegetables and flavorings, followed by ice. Start on a slower speed, holding down the lid tightly, before increasing the speed to achieve a velvety texture. If the smoothie is too thin, add more frozen fruit or ice. Freezing the fruits first and then blending them into a smoothie can substitute for ice. Peeling bananas before freezing them makes smoothie-making easier. Freezing the fruits in recipe-size portions also simplifies the process.

Smooth-fleshed fruits like mangoes, papayas, bananas, ripe peaches and nectarines blend more easily to a silky finish than do fresh berries.

Tender, baby greens such as spinach, kale or chard virtually disappear within a smoothie; if using mature, rather than baby greens, cut out the stems unless the blender is extremely powerful.

natural awakenings

recipe photos by Stephen Blancett

Yields 2 servings ¼ cup cranberry juice 1 cup pitted sweet black cherries ½ cup raspberries 1 /3 cup plain soy or coconut yogurt 4 ice cubes

Combine all ingredients and blend from low to high speed until smooth.

Mango Lassi Yields 2 servings ¾ cup vanilla soy, almond or coconut milk ¼ cup vanilla soy, almond or coconut milk yogurt ¾ tsp vanilla extract 1½ cups chopped fresh mango, frozen ½ tsp ground cardamom Agave nectar to taste Ground pistachios for garnish Combine the milk, yogurt, vanilla extract, mango and cardamom and blend using low to high speeds until smooth.

Add agave nectar to taste and blend again. Sprinkle ground pistachios over each serving.

difference isn’t noticeable if the smoothie is enjoyed right away, it will be apparent if it sits for 20 minutes or more.

With the whir of a blender—and no cooking—summer’s tastiest bounty transforms into at-home or on-the-go beverages to revive, replenish and renew us so we’re ready for our next adventure.

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

Peachy Watermelon

From Vermont farms and our country kitchen... straight to your fridge or table.

Helping you bring your family back to the dinner table without the hassle!

Yields 2 servings 2-3 cups watermelon, seeded 1 cup low-fat vegan vanilla yogurt 1 cup frozen organic strawberries 1 cup frozen organic sliced peaches Combine all ingredients and blend from low to high speed until smooth.

Seasonal Suppers Summer Salad Smoothie

Visit us online! http://www.simplescallion.com/ Join us and share your feedback! #SimpleScallionMeal

Yields 2 servings ½ cup apple juice 2 cups stemmed and chopped baby spinach, Swiss chard or kale 1 apple, unpeeled, cored and chopped ½ avocado, peeled and chopped ½ cup cilantro leaves 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp matcha (fine green tea powder) 1 Tbsp milled flax seeds ¼ cup vegan protein powder Combine all ingredients and blend from low to high speed until smooth.

Tomato Smoothie Yields 2 servings 2 cups tomatoes, chopped ½ cup tomato juice ¼ cup apple juice ½ cup carrots ¼ cup celery, chopped Tabasco or other hot sauce to taste 2 cups ice Combine all ingredients and blend from low to high speed until smooth.

Cool as a Cucumber Smoothie Yields 2 servings 1 cup apple juice 1 cup sliced sweet apple ¼ cup applesauce ½ cup sliced carrots ½ cup cucumber, peeled and sliced 2 cups ice Dash of nutmeg or cinnamon (optional) Combine all ingredients and blend from low to high speed until smooth.

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July 2014

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nutritioncoachprofiles Eliana Grübel, C.H.C. Board Certified Health Counselor Newtown 203-559-8946 ElyGrubel@gmail.com • ChefElyGrubel.com

Eliana Grubel

Food-related business summary and/or services offered: I am a health coach and personal chef that provides ‘’clean food.’’

I use food that is free of artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, preservatives and hydrogenated oils and work with organic, locally grown vegetables when possible.

The meat/poultry are from animals raised humanely, without steroids, growth hormones and/or animal by-products.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I love to shop for the best ingredients available, creating nutritious dishes full of flavor.

Areas of specialty: I received my training as a health coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, learning to combine traditional philosophies with modern concepts like the USDA food pyramid, glycemic index, Zone and raw foods. I studied over 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques and coaching methods. I am board certified/accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and a Culinary Business Academy graduate.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what changes do you have planned for 2014?

My Clean Gourmet Food products, prepared at Sticks and Stones Farm´s commercial kitchen, are currently being sold at Fairfield and Easton/Weston’s Winter Farmers’ Markets and Ridgefield’s Organic Specialty Market as well as several upcoming summer markets. I am looking to expand to retail stores with home delivery along Fairfield County’s shoreline.

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

In addition to my product line, I also offer my expertise as a personal chef to those interested in following Dr. D’Adamo’s Blood Type/Genotype Diet. After more than 13 years, this is the one I find works well for my clients and for myself.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Meredith Mulhearn, Cucumber & Chamomile, LLC 32 Danbury Rd (above Peachwave), Ridgefield Mailing Address: 34 Griffith Ln, Ridgefield 203-403-7007 CCNutritionTherapy@gmail.com •CucumberAndChamomile.com Food-related business summary and/or services offered: Cucumber & Chamomile is where nutrition meets spa with customized programs. Education is the focus and simple, gradual changes are used to ensure that results will last a lifetime.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I tried almost every treatment when I fell ill with Chronic Fatigue SynMeredith Mulhearn drome years ago. I turned to nutrition and started to feel better. After two degrees, I found I was starting over going back to school for nutrition therapy. My health journey continues, but now I am on a mission to help others feel energized, alive and thriving through nutrition!

Areas of specialty: Cucumber & Chamomile specializes in programs that boost energy, help lose weight, promote clear, younger looking skin and support health. There is a strict no-guilt policy and no foods are forbidden, so deprivation is a thing of the past.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what changes do you have planned for 2014?

I offer corporate workshops to provide employees with nutritional tools for their busy schedules to have fewer sick days, be more productive, have improved energy and manage stress. I also offer testing for food sensitivities, which can have a significant impact on immune system function and lead to a host of conditions.

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

There’s nothing more thrilling than witnessing the empowerment my clients feel when they reach their goals with ease.

Also, Ridgefield is my community and I am committed to giving back. I co-founded Eat Well Ridgefield, an initiative promoting local, healthy restaurants. In addition, I am sponsoring the Ridgefield Challenge to fund the Norwalk River Valley Trails’ Ridgefield segment and serve on the Chamber of Commerce’s Health & Wellness Committee. We will hold an expo this fall that will combine education, fun and resources.

Whole Health Body Balance 11 Abbey Ln, Ste 1416, Danbury 203-249-9838 Sandra@WholeHealthBodyBalance.com Sandi-Mendelson.HealthCoach.IntegrativeNutrition.com

Better Beds = Better Sleep

What drew you to wellness coaching as a profession?

Doctors and meds couldn’t fix my symptoms! Once I learned how food choices, toxins and stress can disable metabolism, cause inflammation and pain, prevent weight loss and result in chronic illness, I was determined to help people reclaim their health.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I am a certified nutrition and wellness coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. I am also a certified light therapist- meaning, I use red, infrared and blue LED light therapy for pain and stress reduction and to improve circulation.

Sandi Mendelson

How long have you been practicing?

5 years Do you have a particular specialty or niche?

I focus on clients with chronic pain and weight issues. Since the body works as an integrated whole, other imbalances are also usually present such as digestion, sleep, immune, allergy, energy and mood problems.

What should a client expect from you?

My clients should expect to be empowered, educated and supported to make the food and lifestyle choices that bring their bodies back to balance so they achieve their health and weight goals.

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actionalert Demonstration in Washington to Stop Fracked Gas Exports

O

n Sunday, July 13, demonstrators will gather in Washington, D.C., to protest fracked gas exports at Cove Point, in Maryland, and other proposed sites across the nation. The event will feature such anti-fracking movement leaders as Tim DeChristopher and Sandra Steingraber, along with mothers fending off compressor stations, fathers fighting pipelines, and others demanding solutions to climate change.

“This is the first-ever major action in D.C. on this issue,” says Ted Glick, National Campaign Coordinator for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network. “Thousands of us will be there to show the strength of the movement against shale gas drilling and fracking. We’re calling for a rapid transition away from coal, gas and oil energy sources and toward wind power, solar energy and efficiency investments, which create jobs and a stable climate.”

FRACKING

A civil disobedience event is planned for the next day, July 14. To learn more and register for the demonstration, visit StopGasExports.org.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

W

hat if farmers couldn’t confirm that what they grow and produce was devoid of toxins, cancer-causing chemicals, radioactive materials and other pollutants?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other federal and state agencies set standards and enforce regulations to ensure what we eat is safe and that production is secure. But hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and its accompanying infrastructure threaten this. Questions must be raised and answered before the safety of our food supply is permanently impacted.

Conditions that Demand Changes n No federal funding exists for researching the impacts of chemical contamination from oil and gas drilling and infrastructure on food and food production. n No public tests are required for what contaminants to look for because many of the 500-plus chemicals used in the fracking process are categorized as proprietary. n Minimal-to-no baseline analysis is being done on air, water and soil conditions before oil and gas companies come into a new area. n No commonly agreed distances are lawfully required between farms, farmlands, rivers, streams and water supplies in relation to oil and gas wells and their infrastructure.

Compounding Crises Harsh economic conditions, plus concerns over long-term climate changes, including extreme weather events, have pitted neighbors against one another as farmers consider leasing their lands to oil and gas companies. More, often the riches promised do not make their way to the farmers that need them the most as American policies continue to favor megalithic agribusinesses and push farming families into unsustainable choices.

What To Do

Information is Power

4 Support local, county and state bans on fracking operations and waste disposal.

4 Learn about local farmers’ situations and make them aware of factors to consider.

4 Support local farmers and food producers.

Center for Environmental Health, CEH.org Chefs for the Marcellus, ChefsForMarcellus.org The Endocrine Disruptor Exchange, Tinyurl.com/EndocrineDisruptingChemicals Food Not Fracking, FoodNotFracking.org GRACE Communications Foundation, GraceLinks.org/1305/Natural-Gas-Fracking Love NY: Don’t Frack It Up, LoveNYDontFrackItUp.org

Standard drilling leases rarely provide broad protections for farmers and can even eliminate their input on where roads are created and fracking machinery is installed on their property, all of which can hamper normal farming. In Pennsylvania, where fracking is commonplace, thousands of diesel trucks drive by working farms daily, compounding problems already associated with 24/7 vibrations, noises, emissions and light pollution, stressing both humans and farm animals.

In New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Ohio, farmers that have or are near such leased land are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain mortgages, re-mortgage property and acquire or renew insurance policies. Caught up in a vicious cycle, some farmers feel forced to abandon their farms, thus opening up more land to oil and gas companies.

“Fracking is turning many rural environments into industrial zones,” observes Jennifer Clark, owner of Eminence Road Farm Winery, in New York’s Delaware County. She notes that we often hear a lot about the jobs fracking might create, but we hear little about the agricultural jobs being lost or the destruction of a way of life that has been integral to America’s landscape for generations.

Asha Canalos, an organic blueberry and heirloom vegetable farmer in Orange County, New York, is among the leaders in the David versus Goliath battle pitting farmers and community members against the Millennium Pipeline Company and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. On May 1, oral arguments were heard in the U.S. Court of Appeals. According to Canalos, “Our case could set a national precedent, with all the attending legal precedent, that will either empower other farmers and communities like ours and Minisink or will do the opposite.”

Minisink Matters, MinisinkMatters.org

In January 2013, more then 150 New York chefs and food professionals sent a letter to Governor Mario Cuomo calling for a ban on fracking in their state. As of December 2013, more then 250 chefs have signed on to the Chefs for the Marcellus campaign, which created the petition. In April 2014, Connecticut chefs entered the fray by launching their own petition to ban the acceptance of fracking waste in Connecticut.

In California this past February, farmers and chefs banded together to present Governor Jerry Brown with a petition calling for a moratorium on fracking, stating that fracking wastes huge amounts of water. The previous month, California had declared a statewide drought emergency, and by April Brown had issued an executive order to strengthen the state’s ability to manage water. Ironically, existing California regulations don’t restrict water use by industrial processes, including fracking, which uses and permanently removes tremendous amounts of water from the water cycle. To date, fracking in California operates with little state regulation.

It’s past due for a “time out” on oil and gas production and infrastructure development. Every citizen needs to think carefully and thoughtfully about what’s at stake as outside interests rush to use extreme forms of energy extraction to squeeze the last drops of fossil fuels from our Mother Earth.

Activist Harriet Shugarman, a veteran economist and policy analyst and former representative for the International Monetary Fund at the United Nations, currently chairs regional environmental committees and works with national, state and local organizations seeking pro-environmental legislation.

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Open Mic Night, 3rd Sat at 7 pm Reiki Healing Circle, 1st Thu at 7 pm Radical Self-Forgiveness, Wed at 7 pm beginning July 16th

Summer Retreat “Deep in the Depths of MY Soul” - August 10-15th Meditation, Yoga, Spirit-Filled Music, Open Discussion Workshops, 24 Hours in Silence, Drumming Circle, Free Time, Small Group Time, Laughter, Entertainment, Gourmet Meals, and more! A few spots left!

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July 2014

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healingways

Essential Oils for Summer

Healing Fragrances for Bites, Allergies and Sunburn

Best Carriers Almost all essential oils are so strong that they must be diluted before use to prevent skin irritation. Use coldpressed oils and mix 10 to 15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier substance. Some of the best carriers are almond oil, aloe vera gel, apricot oil, cocoa butter, glycerin, jojoba oil and olive oil.

by Kathleen Barnes

A breath of sweet lavender oil can quickly reduce stress. A whiff of lemon oil can energize us.

E

“

ssential oils are not magic or folklore. There is solid science behind them,” says Elizabeth Jones, founder of the College of Botanical Healing Arts, in Santa Cruz, California.

Here’s what happens after inhaling lavender, the most popular of all essential oils: The cilia—microscopic cellular fibers in the nose—transport the aroma to the olfactory bulb at the bottom of the brain, from where it proceeds to the limbic brain and directly affects the nerves, delivering a soothing effect. “Or put it on your skin and other properties of essential oils are absorbed straight into the bloodstream,” advises Jones, author of Awaken to Healing Fragrance.

Thai studies show that a whiff of lavender oil is calming and lowers blood pressure and heart rate, yet there are many more benefits attributed to the art

and science of aromatherapy and essential oils. For those struggling with summer maladies, here are several simple solutions essential oils can provide.

Minor Scrapes, Cuts and Blisters Tea tree oil (melaleuca) is tops, because it contains terpenes that kill staphylococcus and other nasty bacteria and works to prevent infection, according to a meta-analysis from the University of Western Australia. The researchers further suggest that tea tree oil may be used in some cases instead of antibiotics. Oregano and eucalyptus oils are likewise acknowledged for their natural abilities to eliminate infection-causing bacteria, fungi and viruses.

“Blend all three for a synergistic effect,” says aromatherapy expert Robert

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Tisserand (RobertTisserand.com), of Ojai, California. “They sort of leapfrog over each other to penetrate the skin and cell walls.”

Sunburn, Bug Bites and Poison Ivy A small amount of undiluted lavender oil will cool sunburn fast, advises Tisserand.

Add a few drops to a dollop of cooling aloe vera gel for extra relief and moisture, suggests Jones. Undiluted lavender is also a great remedy for insect bites, says Tisserand. “You can stop the pain of a bee sting in 20 seconds with a few drops.”

Chamomile, either the German or Roman variety, helps with rashes, according to Jones, especially when mixed with her summertime favorite, aloe vera gel. She recommends mugwort oil for poison oak or poison ivy, a benefit affirmed by animal research from the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine’s Herbal Medicine Formulation Research Group.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx

Allergy Relief During hay fever season, several aromatherapy oils from a diffuser can offer relief, counsels Tisserand. He recommends eucalyptus, geranium and lavender oils, all of which contain antihistamines. Use them separately or blended. When using a diffuser, it’s not necessary to put the oils into a diluting carrier oil or gel. He notes that a steam tent containing 10 drops of each of the three oils mixed with two cups of boiling water is highly effective.

Sprains, Strains and Joint Pain Lessen inflammation and the pain from tendon and muscle sprains and strains with rosemary or peppermint, adding a dash of ginger for additional benefit, says Tisserand. He recommends rubbing the oils (diluted in a carrier) directly on the sore spot.

Rosemary is particularly effective for bringing blood flow to an injury site, and the menthol in peppermint is a great pain reliever, adds Jones.

A Chinese study published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics confirms the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory abilities of peppermint oil. Researchers from Taiwan confirm that ginger is anti-inflammatory and can even reduce intense nerve pain.

Jones believes that essential oils have a place in everyone’s medicine chest. “Sometimes I feel like David up against Goliath,” she remarks. “I encourage everyone to use natural

Essential Oils for the Natural Medicine Cabinet

Never-Fail Insect Repellent 2 Tbsp eucalyptus oil

Supplement your “medicine cabinet” at home with effective, organic medicinal-grade essential oils. Essential oils have the ability to influence the body photo-nutritionally, physiologically and psychologically.

Some common essential oils and oil blends and their known effects include: n Lavender: relaxation, sleep, skin issues, motion sickness, insect bites, laundry, sleeping aid

1 tsp cedar wood oil 1 tsp citronella oil 1 tsp pennyroyal oil

n Peppermint: headaches, digestion, sinus decongestant, alertness, flavoring

1 tsp lemongrass oil Mix in warm water in a one-quart spray bottle. Shake and use liberally.

n Lemon: detoxification, cold sores, skin calluses, artificial air fresheners, uplifting

Source: Kathleen Barnes

n Frankincense: depression, anxiety, inflammation, stretch marks healing products from plants instead of pharmaceutical drugs, the side effects of which actually diminish the body’s natural ability to heal.”

Kathleen Barnes has authored numerous books on natural health, including Rx from the Garden: 101 Food Cures You Can Easily Grow. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

n Thieves: cold, flu, immune support, antibacterial, antiviral, household germs, mold n Valor: courage, confidence, grounding, snoring n Peace/Calming: stress, anxiety, hyperactivity, insomnia n Wintergreen: inflammation, arthritis, bruises, muscle pain, migraine headaches n Purification: insect repellent, neutralizes odors, mildew, bug bites, pimples Louise Sullivan is a certified health and wellness counselor and a lifestyle educator, specializing in Lyme disease. She works extensively with essential oils. For more information, call 203-856-2122, email LHSullivan@aol.com or visit LouiseSullivan.

VibrantScents.com.

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July 2014

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The Emotional Essence of Essential Oils

by Kristen Hallett Rzasa

I

nhaling a whiff of sweet basil and oregano, coupled with the moist, pungent smell of pipe smoke, may invoke childhood memories of walking into yourgrandma’s house for Sunday dinner. The response is powerful; you can almost

taste the macaroni and gravy simmering on the stove. Not only is there a physical reaction to the smell, but an emotional response as well.

Your sense of smell is the only one of the five senses that taps into the emotional control center of our brain, the limbic system. Your olfactory senses are 10,000 times stronger than the other senses and provide the fastest path to memories and emotions. The use of essentials oils for emotional well-being has garnered a surge in popularity.

New York Medical University’s Joseph Ledoux, Ph.D., “was one of the first to suggest that using aroma could be a major breakthrough in helping to release hidden and suppressed feeling and memories of emotional bondage,” according to the Essential Oils Desk Reference.

The cell structures of plant-based essential oils are similar to that of the human cell structures, enabling the human body to recognize and process the oils. The oils attach to cell receptor sites and elicit the emotional responses needed. They calm the amygdala, the small nuclei located in the temporal

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

lobes of the brain that is associated with emotions, aggression and memory.

Their soothing effect can release and relieve stress and trauma.

A powerful illustration of the emotional strength of essential oils is the application of the oils following the tragic Sandy Hook school shooting in 2012.

After the incident, thousands of dollars of oils were donated by essential oil company doTerra to assist with trauma recovery. Marian Edvardsen of Norwalk, a wellness advocate for doTerra, volunteered in Sandy Hook. She said a protocol of thirteen oils was chosen specifically to address the key issues at hand. “Each oil has an intelligence of its own,” Edvardsen explained. “For example, lavender is not just the pleasant odor in your potpourri, it’s also the oil of communication. This calming oil was used for children, teachers and first responders who couldn’t find the words to process what they had experienced.”

Betty Shaw, a raw food educator from Woodbury, says the oils have the power to change our emotional state, not just temporarily, but for lasting change. “If I don’t like the way I feel, I

know I have the power in my essential oils medicine kit to change my mood,” she says.

“Your soul reaches for the oil you crave,” explains Greta Adams of Simply Essential.

She has created a mindful moment technique combining affirmation and thought with the oils. “I love the instant short-term results, but long-term consistent use aids with conditions such as chronic anxiety and depression,” Adams says.

Norwalk-based massage therapist and Reiki practitioner, Lauren Bailey Peters, was drawn to the spiritual aspect of the essential oils. “Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years in temples and spiritual practices. However,” Peters says, “the quality of the oils determines how it affects your body and brain, so choose wisely.” As with food, oils produced from plants and flowers that are organically grown and sustainably produced are recommended.

Kristen Hallett Rzasa is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings Fairfield County and the owner of InterPlay

Health, a whole life wellness company in Norwalk focused on fitness, nutrition and fun for women. She is a Jazzercise instructor, health coach and MELT Method instructor. Find her at InterPlayHealth.com.

Local Resources: Marian Edvarsen Marianedvardsen.com Lauren Bailey Peters 814-599-5924 AromaEnergyHealing.com Bette Shaw 203-528-5330 BetteJShaw.com Louise Sullivan 203 856-2122 LouiseSullivan.VibrantScents.com

Additional Resources: Doterra.com EverythingEssential.me AromaTools.com YoungLiving.com

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clothing design can align perfectly with the colors, shapes, substances and energies of feng shui’s five elements. Because feng shui connects divine energy to physical form, I realized I could dress my client’s spirits, as well as their surfaces.”

Fashion Feng Shui, Maggiore’s international corporate legacy, maintains that combining intention and the five elements with awareness of our personal style attracts what we desire. Holistic image and lifestyle consultant and lead trainer Andréa Dupont, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, states that the first step is discovering our “essence”, or primary element. “You can’t dress yourself until you know yourself.

I ask clients, ‘If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?’ Once we establish an individual’s inner strengths and core element, the results can be life changing.”

Green Choices

FENG SHUI FASHIONISTA

Dressing with Conscious Intention

by Gail Condrick

W

aking up on the morning of a big presentation to secure city funding for a new park, you’re confident that you’ve done your homework: You’ve prepared handouts, memorized key points of an environmental impact study and lined up community supporters. Opening the closet presents a different kind of challenge: What’s the most effective way to dress?

Dressing Our Essence

Wardrobe consultants that apply the principles of feng shui to clothing believe the jacket we choose to wear carries as much impact as our words. Clothing pieces and accessories selected with conscious awareness and intention can bring us into harmony and balance, energize our life and transmit subconscious messages about our values.

Feng shui clothing stylists believe the five elements of nature—wood, fire, earth, metal and water—connect in an unending cycle of harmony that keeps the world in balance.

Following an authentic and harmonious lifestyle connects us with this cycle and the environment in a more natural balance of human motion and planetary sustainability.

As pioneering stylist Evana Maggiore observed in Fashion Feng Shui: The Power of Dressing with Intention, “I came to the conclusion that clothing is your body’s most intimate environment and energetically influences your life in the same way that your home and business décors do. Body coloring and shape, style, personality, lifestyle, goals and 48

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natural awakenings

For Denise Medved, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, owner of Feng Shui Style, wardrobe consciousness shows respect for our individuality and the environment. “When I choose to dress in natural fibers such as cottons, leathers, silks or wools, or their vegan complements in manmade fibers, it represents the life force of plants and animals and builds qi, or energy,” says Medved.

She suggests assembling an outfit embracing three of the five elements. “A water/wood/fire triad might be black, woven, silk trousers; an organic, cotton, floral print shirt; and a red, recycled wool jacket. Personalizing this with the surprise of grandmother’s yellow stone pin on the lapel adds creative flair and earth and metal elements.” Nature’s jewelry energizes and circulates qi.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Practicing the three basic tenets of sustainability together with principles of feng shui keeps our wardrobe and closet resonating with life. Consultants agree that a wardrobe representing the five elements allows endless possibilities of creative combinations and reduces the need for having to keep up with new fashion trends. Shopping for such treasures at consignment and thrift stores, plus estate sales, allows us to reuse and repurpose clothing, energizing our budgets, closets and attitudes. Recycling items that pack closets and no longer suit our needs frees space and energy to create a wardrobe that is authentically ours.

The Practical Encyclopedia of Feng Shui, by Gill Hale, also contains helpful advice for bringing out an intended inner message and making a statement. The color green conveys the wood element, or individuals that are public spirited and energetic. Red suggests fire, the color of inspiring leaders. Supportive and loyal earth personalities gravitate to khaki, while resolute, metal people may select grey. Natural communicators that view life holistically will be reflected in the water element of black.

A feng shui philosophy provides guidelines for living in harmony with the natural world and in conscious awareness of life. Each choice expresses a stylistic living intention that will be noticed by the world.

Gail Condrick is an archetypal consultant and Nia Technique faculty member. Connect at GaelaVisions.com.

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.

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49

petbriefs Inaugural DAWS Golf Tournament Kicks Off

T

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

he 1st Annual Drive for DAWS Golf Tournament will take place rain or shine on July 23 at the Richter Park Golf Course in Danbury. Golfers of all levels are invited to enjoy a round of golf at one of Connecticut’s premier golf courses and support Danbury Animal Welfare Society, Inc. (DAWS).

Registration for the event begins at 11:30am with a shotgun start beginning at 1:30pm. The fee, which is $150 per golfer, also includes lunch and dinner receptions. The “Hole in One Prize,” sponsored by Danbury Audi, will be a 3-year lease on an Audi A5 Cabriolet. A silent auction and on-the-course contests will also be held.

DAWS is a non profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals in the community and beyond. They promote responsible pet guardianship and the humane treatment of animals, and work toward ending animal overpopulation through education and a variety of programs. DAWS’ vision is to be a regional leader in placing dogs and cats in qualified adoptive homes.

To register, visit daws.org/Golf. For sponsorship opportunities, email Sherrill Collins, Event Director, at SCooke1016@yahoo.com or call 203-314-6353. Richter Park Golf Course is located at 100 Aunt Hack Rd, Danbury.

T.A.I.L.S.’ Yappy Hour at Burger Bar & Bistro

H 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

50

Fairfield County Edition

umans and dogs are invited to join The Alliance in Limited Strays (T.A.I.L.S.) for a TAILS Yappy Hour taking place at Burger Bar & Bistro in Norwalk on July 10 at 5:30pm. The happy hour for adults will benefit the organization’s spay/neuter programs for dogs and cats.

For a $20 donation, adults will enjoy drink specials all night long and games.

A doggie food menu will be available for canine patrons.

The mission of T.A.I.L.S. is to serve the community as a charitable organization that promotes spay/neutering of animals and provides financial support to humane organizations and individuals in pursuit of this goal. The volunteer organization is based in Westport.

For more information, visit TailsCT.org, call 203-222-1992 or email Info@TailsCT.org. Burger Bar & Bistro is located at 60 Main St, Norwalk.

The best way to detoxify is to stop putting toxic things into the body and instead depend upon its own mechanisms. ~Andrew Weil

natural awakenings

vibrational level. A black hole in the heart of the Perseus galaxy cluster was recorded at 57 octaves below middle C in the note of B flat. A healthy heart vibrates at F. The earth itself “hums” at 7.8 Hz, which by the way is the vibration of the alpha waves of our brains.

Sound therapy, vibrational therapy, music therapy and entrainment all are based on the concept that the right music can heal the body, mind and soul. “Sound therapy, whether through the use of sound tools, singing bowls, or voice helps lift the issues out of tissues,” says Tree McKenna Cinque, crystal master and sound practitioner.

Animal Sensitivity to Music

Music Therapy for Companion Animals Ancient Practice with New Implications

by Mary Oquendo

A

ustralian Aborigines and Native Americans used sound to heal from within in their sacred ceremonies. The Tibetans still use bells, chimes, bowls and chanting during their spiritual meditations and practices. The priests of ancient Egypt used vowel sounds to balance chakras, the major energy centers located along the axis of their bodies (animals have eight energy chakras).

Music therapy has modern applications as well. Today it is used in hospitals for pain management, labor and delivery, neonatal care, pediatrics, oncology, physical rehabilitation, psychotherapy and other conditions. Increasingly there is application of music therapy where animals are concerned because animals are very sensitive creatures, in tune with their surroundings and their bodies. Music therapy can be used to change their reaction to an environment from stressful to calm, as well as target health concerns. Zoos have utilized music therapy to calm agitated animals and dairy farms to increase milk output.

What is music therapy?

For humans, music therapy is defined as “an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music and all of its facets-physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual-to help clients to improve or maintain their health,” according to Temple University’s Boyer College of Music and Dance. Energetically, music therapy is based on the premise that everything in life has a corresponding musical note or

While humans hear in the 200 to 20,000 Hz range, animals’ hearing is far more sensitive at up to 200,000 Hz. Playing high-energy music can stress a pet, resulting in behavioral issues, while lower energy music can calm an anxious pet. In addition, it is now understood that particular health concerns can be mitigated by choosing the corresponding musical note associated with the problem.

“Animals and pets are tuned into vibration and sound much more so than humans. Animals have the capacity to hear more octaves and tones than humans and are profoundly affected by sound,” explains Jennifer Zulli, an artist, musician, sound healer and founder of Newtown’s SOUND Center for Arts & Mindfulness. “Their emotional state or well-being can be manipulated or entrained with music – whether it’s from your iPod, your voice or a tuning fork. They seek to be in a state of natural balance like us. We all can thrive harmoniously together when our intentions are continuously created from a place of love. What better way to express our love to our pets than one of the most spiritual art forms ... music.”

Incorporating music into your pet’s life The two easiest mediums to add are music and singing bowls. Singing bowls are made from either metal or crystal and vibrate when played to a particular frequency or musical note. Most common singing bowls are found in 11 different notes, which correspond to the chakras of body. For example, playing a bowl that resonates at C would help with any concerns connected to the root chakra.

Playing calming music throughout the day, such as harp, easy listening or classical, will reduce stimuli which can, in turn, lower stress levels and improve behavioral issues. Music such as Steven Halpern’s “Chakra Suite,” uses musical notes to balance chakras that are out of alignment, closed or overly open. Animals with healthy, balanced chakras are more effective at self-healing when they are faced with a health issue.

Adding music therapy to your pet’s environment is easy and can be an effective component of your pets’ overall health maintenance plan.

Owner and stylist of Pawsitively Pretty Mobile Grooming Salon in Danbury, Mary Oquendo ACM, RM, is one of only 13 Certified Master Pet Tech Instructors worldwide. She is a Reiki master and certified crystal healer. For more information, visit HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 56. eNaturalAwakenings.com

July 2014

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Summer Love,

naturalpet

photos courtesy of Liisa Kyle

Find Your Natural Match!

Telling Your Pet’s Story Scrapbooks Strut their Stuff

by Sandra Murphy

F

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Fairfield County Edition

or many, handwritten letters bundled with ribbon, pressed flowers and fading photographs have been replaced by emails, computerized cards and digital images, with the notable exception of scrapbooks.

A scrapbook, done right, is a memorabilia treasure chest. Pages are embellished, decorated and personalized to bring memories alive. Pets get to strut their stuff, too. Mary Anne Benedetto, author of Write Your Pet’s Life Story in 7 Easy Steps, in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, says that no matter the species, each pet has special qualities or quirks and a tale to tell.

Liisa Kyle, Ph.D., founder of CoachingForCreativePeople.com, in Seattle, Washington, also trains candidates for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

“The pup comes to me at 8 weeks old and moves on a year or more later,” says Kyle. “It’s traditional, and a big deal, to give the dog’s new person a gift when the transfer is made. For the first pup, I made a memory book starting from his first days with us.

Bright white paper behind each photo highlighted the contrast so the man, who had minimal vision, could see the pictures. People are curious about service animals, so he carries the book to show it around. It’s a fun way to

natural awakenings

educate people about the guide dogs program.”

Anne Moss, owner of TheCatSite.com, based in Pardes Hana, Israel, says scrapbooking is a recurrent theme in the site’s forums. “Our members tend to be computer savvy and create online pages for their cats. Yet many don’t want to give up the handson experience of scrapbooking; it gives them a special way to preserve memories of or create a long-lasting tribute for their beloved cats.” One member posted about a shadow box she’d made to display favorite toys and photos; another used camping-themed stickers around a photo of the cat napping in a kitty tent.

“I started taking pictures of my Bernese mountain dog, Chance, when he first came to me,” says Yvette Schmitter, an entrepreneurial software programmer in New York City. “We dress in matching costumes like Fiona and Shrek, Princess Leia and Yoda, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. It’s a creative outlet after writing computer code all day and a good excuse to play together.”

Schmitter places the photos in pre-made greeting cards and has a current mailing list that exceeds 250, including the doorman, neighbors, the vet and groomer, friends and family.

“The deli guy told me he looks forward to each holiday just to see what we’ve come up with. That’s what motivates me; our fun photos can make somebody’s day better.”

Heather Post, owner of The Etiquette Seed, in Daytona Beach, Florida, specializes in coaching and speaking engagements. When her in-laws traveled to their summer home, she made a scrapbooklet for them. “It showed Sophie, our rescue terrier, at the door, window or in the car, with rhyming captions that said she missed them.” Post sends similar photo “stories” to her daughter, Meghan,

Savvy Scrapbooking

by Sandy Murphy Yvette Schmitter keeps her dog’s photo sessions short because, “Chance pouts after 20 minutes.” If a large dog looks intimidating, soften its appearance by adding a bright bandana, hat or goofy sunglasses. Liisa Kyle took weekly photos of a pup to show its growth. Joanna Campbell Slan, author of the Kiki Lowenstein Scrap-n-Craft mystery book series, offers several additional tips. now in college; a cousin’s daughter even took Sophie’s Halloween photo to preschool for show and tell.

Whichever forum we choose, stages and phases of a pet’s life can be celebrated with a lock of hair, paw print, obedience school certificate and lots of photos.

After all, a pet is part of the family.

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

n Take photos from the pet’s eye level instead of from above. n For a dark-haired pet, use a contrast ing background; a colorful blanket or pale wall makes it stand out. n Add texture by layering papers and adding trinkets and creative captions. n Notes from a groomer can make a cute addition. n Catalog the words a pet knows on a designated page. Go beyond the obvious command words.

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Sound EffectS What Your Pet Hears

by Donna Gleason

H

ave you ever noticed that your behavior or emotional state changes based on the type of music you are listening to? How do you feel when you hear the sound of a babbling brook or fingernails scraping on a blackboard?

Sound has the ability to affect not only human behavior and emotional states, but that of our pets as well.

To understand more about the power of sound and its impact upon your pets, try a simple experiment. Speak to your pet using high pitched staccato sounds, such as “ta ta ta ta ta,” followed by a lower pitched legato sound like “g-ge-e-n-n-t-t-l-l-e-e.” Your pet will most likely became more energetic and excited when hearing the staccato sounds and calmer when presented with the legato sounds.

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The science behind sound Jeffrey D. Thompson, DC, director of the Center for Neuroacoustic Research, conducted extensive research on brain waves entraining or syncing with the rhythm of sound they receive. He identified that music with a cadence of 60 beats or less slowed brain waves and other bodily functions, including blood pressure, breathing and heart rates. Converse-

ly, he found that faster rhythms sped up brain activity. Overall, slower rhythms produced calming effects and faster beats increased energy and concentration skills.

Impact in Common HighStress Environments There have been numerous studies supporting the use of sound in veterinary offices and shelter environments.

A study published in Animal Welfare revealed that shelter animals exposed to classical music spent more time in a relaxed state. Specifically, their barking was reduced and they were less reactive when people came to visit.

The study also found that the number of adoptions increased after the facility started to play classical music.

Researchers attributed this to potential adopters being more relaxed, spending more time at the shelter and showing

an increased desire to adopt a dog from such a calm facility (Wells, D.L., Graham, L., Hepper, P.G., November 2002).

Katharine Pileggi, owner of Downtown Dog in New Milford, Connecticut, has been grooming pets for over ten years and sees the powerful effect of sound in her business. She finds “The Sounds of Reiki” CD and Healing Sounds Radio show tend to have the most positive impact, causing the pets to be more emotionally and behaviorally balanced. Pileggi says that many of her clients have indicated that, for the first time, their pet’s grooming experience seems to be stress-free.

Sound to the Rescue Barking: Turning on the television or radio to a calm, soothing station during the day can act as a camouflage for the sounds which trigger your dog

to bark. If your dog randomly barks at sounds during the night, consider purchasing a white noise relaxation machine.

Grief and Depression: Faster rhythms can help to rejuvenate a pet’s depressed or lethargic emotional state.

Experts suggest exposing your pet in 10to 15-minute intervals will help achieve better results.

Reactivity to Specific Sounds: Reactivity to a specific sound like fireworks or the sounds produced during a thunderstorm can be referred to as situational reactivity. Master’s Voice’s Noiseshy Cure System: Thunder/Fireworks and Victoria Stilwell’s Canine Noise Phobia Series are two CD compilations specifically designed to help you reduce your pet’s reactivity to such sounds through desensitization and behavior modification.

Separation Anxiety: Playing slow

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July 2014

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music in the background can help calm a pet that experiences anxiety when left alone. In their Through A Dog’s Ear disc, Joshua Leeds and Lisa Spector use the science of psychoacoustics to support and enhance a pet’s compromised nervous system.

Sound can be a powerful tool when looking to alter a behavior or emotional response from your pet.

First, determine if you are trying to speed up or slow down the response.

How you apply sound to your pet’s environment is only limited by your personal creativity.

Donna Gleason, owner of TLC Dog Trainer, resides in Sherman. She is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDTKA) and IAABC certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC) with a master’s degree in behavior modification. She offers professional in-home dog training and group puppy/basic obedience classes. For more information, call 203241-4449 or visit TLCDogTrainer.com.

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Fairfield County Edition

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are one drop.

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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 P.O. Box 953, New Canaan BBRct@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org

Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297

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Fairfield County’s TOP The family-owned business canine center! We have sells its own veterinarianbeen serving pet lovers in formulated products for cats our area for more than 20 and dogs. These include years. Our staff consists of dog trainers and animal vitamins, organic herbal remedies and a natural Goldstein behavorists who work together to make Dog Gone flea and tick prevention program. Dr. Bob ® Smart a loving, safe, fun and happy home away from recently partnered with Bell&Evans to produce a hormone-and antibiotic-free line of Americanhome for your dog. See ad, page 54. treats. Earth Animal also sells raw Love yourselfmade first chicken and everything and dehydrated foods and organic home-cooking Passage East Boarding Kennels else falls intopre-mixes, line. Youplus really havequality treats, bones, toys, the best 499 Danbury Rd, Wilton to love yourself to get anything leashes, collars, beds, etc!

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Passage East is a full-service dog boarding kennel. We offer daycare services, overnight boarding and full-service grooming. See ad, page 53.

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Furry guests receive good manners training, sleep on cotton sheets and Persian carpets and go for daily socialization and training hikes. Homemade holistic nutrition supplemented by herbal remedies and nutritional advice and cooking lessons available for health-conscious dog parents. See ad, page 54.

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 55.

Westport Animal Shelter Advocates (WASA)

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natural awakenings

The Natural Rhythms of Sleep

by Rev. Ed O’Malley

W

hat if we had no job or school or children to awaken us or place demands on our time? Would we sleep around the clock? How do we know when to sleep and what happens when we don’t? Why do we sleep at night, arguably the most vulnerable time of the day?

To answer these questions, we first must consider where we’ve come from and how we developed. For millennia, indigenous peoples across the globe slept and rose with the sun. They lived within the rhythms of nature, determined by the changing daylight and seasonal variations in day length.

Remembering that our bodies evolved within nature helps us to understand and respect the inherent rhythms of our biology.

In Western society some time ago, people slept in two blocks of time separated by an interval of wakefulness. The recently uncovered but largely forgotten “first and second

sleep” practice of medieval and early modern Europe was so common that it barely merited reference in the literature of the time. A typical pattern involved an evening meal soon after sunset, which was followed by one or two hours of wakefulness by candlelight or firelight, then an initial “first sleep” period from about 8 pm to midnight.

Adults then would rise and participate in a variety of activities, from smoking a pipe, reading and visiting neighbors to saying prayers or having intimate relations.

Modern research at the National Institutes of Health uncovered an identical pattern in experimental subjects forced to stay in laboratory-controlled darkness from 8 pm until 10 am. Participants were recorded sleeping for 4 hours, lying awake in a quiet meditative-like state for an hour or two, then returning to sleep for another 4-hour block. Besides reporting an increase in overall well-being, the subjects also remarked on how especially alert and awake they felt after the month-long study.

This natural pattern is in stark contrast to the solid 8-hour sleep block advocated by most sleep specialists today.

What have we lost? In 2007, recognizing overwhelming research findings on the negative effects of night shift work causing disruption of the circadian rhythm, The World Health Organization listed night shift work as a potential carcinogen. Current research confirms a host of other harmful medical affects resulting from working against our biological clocks. What many of us have lost is our health and well-being. Further, in disconnecting from the natural

Unfortunately, the bright light of electronic devices inhibits melatonin release and, consequently, sleep onset. sleep and wake rhythms of the planet, we seem to have lost nature as well.

So what can be done? Daylight Savings Time notwithstanding, there are several measures we can take to realign ourselves with the natural light of the sun and the night “light” of the moon and stars. When we arise in the morning, we can pull back the curtains to allow full light into our room. Or we can dress or have breakfast where there is plenty of natural light exposure.

Those of us with dogs probably already get this early light exposure via our canines’ morning walk. Those without pets would do well to take themselves for a morning walk. However, there will be those mornings where the weather may be less than inviting or time is in short supply. Full spectrum daylight bulbs in the kitchen and dayrooms can provide a reasonable substitute.

Even better, although requiring a small financial investment, would be a sunrise alarm clock. These devices turn on and then progressively brighten to simulate dawn. An additional benefit is this helps our brain to awaken as light

travels through closed eyelids. Lastly, the light can be programmed to stay on for an additional half hour or more to provide substitute morning sunlight stimulation.

To complete the natural rhythm, sunset exposure is just as crucial. Our ancestors would naturally slow down when exposed to the longer wavelengths of sunset light. Dusk stimulates the brain to produce melatonin, known as the hormone of darkness. Without melatonin, our brain has a hard time knowing when to prepare for sleep. So low light exposure after dusk – similar to the effect of starlight – is as important as bright light exposure is in the morning. Unfortunately, the bright light of electronic devices inhibits melatonin release and, consequently, sleep onset.

So we need to put away our devices after dinner and instead read, play with our children, converse with family members, plan our tomorrow. Or, we can just wait for that special time in between first and second sleep time to plan a natural, healthy, nature-connected future.

Ed O’Malley, Ph.D., FAASM is a naturalist and founder of Your Optimal Nature, an education and consulting company designed to bring people to optimal states of awareness. He holds a Ph.D. in Neurobiology and is a diplomat to the American Board of Sleep Medicine. This spring, O’Malley joined The Graduate Institute as the academic director and program coordinator for a 12-credit graduate certificate program in ecotherapy and cultural sustainability. For more information, visit Learn.edu/EcoTherapy.

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healthykids

Forsaking ‘Angry Birds’ for Bird Songs

CAMPING TURNS KIDS INTO NATURE LOVERS

by Avery Mack

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“

hether urban or rural, children in our state average 4.5 minutes outdoors and four hours in front of a screen every day,” says Barbara Erickson, president of The Trustees of Reservations conservation nonprofit, in Sharon, Massachusetts.

One way to disconnect kids from electronics is to go camping. Such educational, fresh air exercise is inclusive and inexpensive. David Finch, superintendent of the Dunes Edge Campground, in Provincetown, Massachusetts, suggests borrowed gear for the first outing. A backyard campout can be a rewarding trial run; each child can ask a friend to stay over and a parent and the family dog can participate.

Once kids have the hang of sleeping somewhere outside their own bedroom, consider an overnight program at a local or regional zoo. Kids get a kick out of watching the animals and learning about their behaviors, diets and habitats.

The Toledo Zoo, in Ohio, offers Snooze at the Zoo, including a pizza dinner, breakfast and admission the next day.

Children sleep near one of the exhibits

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or in a safari tent. The program teaches animal adaptations, food chains and ecosystems and meets requirements for scout badges in a fun setting.

The Irvine Nature Center, in Owings Mills, Maryland, near Baltimore, offers a rich outdoor experience. Organizers provide food, activities and camping equipment. Children first attend a fire safety class, and then help cook a meal and make s’mores. At night, participants learn how to mimic owl hoots and practice their new skills, often receiving hoots in return. Night walks sometimes include sightings of deer, bats or flying squirrels, while morning walks showcase groundhogs and birds.

Jean Gazis, with the women’s and girls’ rights nonprofit Legal Momentum, in Brooklyn, New York, observes, “It’s easier to camp with small, even tiny, children, than with older kids.

Babies are portable.” She recalls taking her 7-week-old infant along and nostalgically comments, “Now that the kids are 11 and 14, they don’t have as much free time.”

Drive-up camping in a state park

natural awakenings

“It’s not how fast and how far you go, it’s what you see, smell, touch and listen to along the way. You might move only five feet in 15 minutes, but what you see and discuss will help children grow into respectful explorers and lifelong campers. Take photos and bring a journal; a child’s adventures are the best keepsakes.” ~ Stephanie Rach, founder of the Let’s Go Chipper play-based learning program, in Corte Madera, CA that offers facilities and planned activities sets up a good time. Gazis feels that a destination four hours away is the limit for car trips with small children.

She advises giving everyone duties.

“My young son once had a great time digging a ditch around the tent when it began to rain,” she recalls. “He kept the sleeping bags dry and got to play in the mud.”

Jeff Alt, of Cincinnati, Ohio, author of Get Your Kids Hiking, suggests, “Start them young and keep it fun. Get the kids involved in the planning. My kids have gone along since they were born.

We stayed at a lodge when they were small because little trekkers have a lot of gear. During the day we were out in the park exploring, always keeping in mind that kids tire out fast.” His mandatory equipment includes good walking shoes, sunscreen and bug spray. Adhering to such rules as never leave the trail or wander off and don’t pick flowers or touch animals is non-negotiable.

Stephanie Wear, a biologist for The Nature Conservancy, working in Beaufort, South Carolina, has found that it’s easy to make the experience lively.

“We like to do observational scavenger hunts—find the flower, the mushroom or the tree that looks like a picture and make a list of what you see. Getting out in nature sharpens observation skills,

Budget Gear

by Avery Mack

boosts creativity and improves physical and mental health,” she says. Wear notes that her kids have listed 70 forms of life in the family’s backyard alone.

Visit a local park or NatureRocks.org to take part in more activities and explore different locations. “Nature presents a great parenting tool,” she remarks.

Summertime camping helps every member of the family unplug, unwind and wander along new paths.

Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via AveryMack@ mindspring.com.

If family members enjoy their initial camping experiences, it’s time to invest in gear.

Goodwill Industries and other thrift stores may have some items, although finding what’s needed will be a hit-ormiss endeavor. Note that sleeping bags at thrifts will most likely be for indoor use only—not waterproofed or suitable for colder weather. Military surplus stores are a better bet.

Check these sites for bargains or discounted prices: Tinyurl.com/BargainOutfitters Cabelas.com Campmor.com Craigslist.org The-House.com/Buy-Cheap-Camping. html

Tinyurl.com/OverstockHiking Rei.com/Outlet

Thrift shops often have inexpensive flatware and plastic/reusable dishes (cuts paper waste at the campsite), as well as clothing that carefree kids won’t have to worry about ruining; pick gender-neutral colors so T-shirts can be passed down or shared.

When packing, give each child a personally labeled travel container with clothing, toothbrush and other essentials, and a current checklist to be sure each item is packed (and repacked at camp).

Include other items of their choosing but if any of them don’t fit in, they don’t go along.

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Soul Retrieval: Reclaiming Personal Power through Shamanic Healing

by Jessica C. Hunter

“It is our birthright to fully express our Souls. Life without meaning equals despair. It is time for all to collect back our lost pieces and remember why we were born into this world.

Then, we are truly healed and can live our lives in harmony and help others do the same.” ~ Sandra Ingerman, Soul Retrieval: Mending the Fragmented Self

S

hamanic healing is the oldest form of holistic healing, practiced for thousands of years amongst various cultures. It focuses on working with the invisible – the spiritual and energetic world – to create a bridge of balance and harmony in the physical world. In traditional cultures, the shaman, also known as a medicine man or woman, is the channel to the spirit world and the physical world for healing the community, on both a global and individual level.

This ancient practice continues to thrive today and is becoming increasingly popular through work provided by modern shamanic practitioners. One of the most profound and healing shamanic techniques is that of soul retrieval.

A soul retrieval is a shamanic healing technique that restores balance,

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harmony and personal power to an individual. Shamanic teachings suggest that as we progress through transitions, traumas or significant life events, a piece of our soul essence (also known as a soul part) may leave the physical body and return to the spirit world. The soul part leaves the physical body as a form of self preservation and protection of itself; if the body is imbalanced on a physical, emotional, mental or spiritual level, the soul essence is affected and not in alignment with the body, resulting in partial soul loss. It is possible and very common, to have more than one soul part leave the body throughout life’s journey.

The catalyst for imbalance is usually the event that initiates this process, such as a life transition, significant change or trauma. Giving away one’s personal power to another is also a catalyst for soul loss. Individuals who also experience depression, addictions, grief or a sense of emptiness or incompleteness, are usually candidates for soul retrieval work. Soul loss can also be connected to a positive transition; it is not always associated with negative events. The soul part that transitions back to the spirit world returns there seeking healing, protection and safety. Sometimes, it returns for a purpose of learning a lesson or life skill. When the soul part is ready to be reunited with the body, and the physical body is ready to reclaim it, it can be re-integrated through a soul retrieval.

Today, soul retrievals are facilitated by trained shamanic practitioners to restore balance and healing. As the soul part and physical body both need to be in alignment for the healing to be successful, the practitioner must obtain permission to do the healing from their spirit teachers prior to doing the healing work. Permission truly happens between the soul part and the receiver; the practitioner is the intermediary. If permission is granted, the practitioner can access the soul part through a shamanic journey. The practitioner’s spirit teacher shows them where the part is located and which part is ready to return. The practitioner may see a symbolism of the soul part, or they may see an exact visualization of the

part at the time of soul loss – right down to the clothes they were wearing, style of their hair or location in the physical world.

Every soul retrieval is unique. The soul part that returns is the part that is ready to re-integrate at the time of the healing by its own free will. The practitioner does not have any say in which part is to be returned; he is simply the channel that facilitates the healing by the spirits. The part then receives a cleansing, blessing, and healing from the spirit teacher before the practitioner re-integrates it into the body. This is done to ensure that no soul part comes back damaged, negative or broken when a soul retrieval is done correctly and ethically. The individual can now welcome and reclaim a piece of their personal power and life essence where it truly belongs.

Soul retrievals can provide tremendous healing and transformation for the receiver.

Some individuals feel fully empowered after a soul retrieval; some feel whole and “home” again.

Soul retrievals can provide tremendous healing and transformation for the receiver. Some individuals feel fully empowered after a soul retrieval; some feel whole and “home” again. Others are able to move forward where before they described themselves as “stuck.” It is also possible for individuals to experience emotions or memories from the time of the soul loss upon completion of the healing.

These memories or emotions can range from positive to negative. It all depends on which event, transition or change the soul loss was originally connected to. Some individuals do not remember the exact event of the soul loss, and some feel nothing. All of it is part of the healing process and moving towards complete balance and wellness. Whatever the experience, it is important for the receiver to fully embrace what the spirits have provided in the healing, to integrate it within and into their life, to fully complete the retrieval and move towards a new level of healing.

Soul retrieval enables individuals to heal through a divine connection, while empowering them to participate in their own healing process. It is a powerful and transformational shamanic healing that truly embraces and encourages empowerment for reclaiming personal power.

Jessica Hunter is a shamanic practitioner and shamanic medium, ordained minister with Circle of the Sacred Earth, Reiki master teacher, crystal therapy practitioner, empath intuitive and spiritual teacher. She can be reached at 203916-8381, HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com or HunterHealingHands.com. See ad, page 58.

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GRILLED SWORDFISH SANDWICHES WITH SUMMER SUCCOTASH (Serves 4)

Topped with lima bean and corn succotash, and grilled until juicy, these swordfish sandwiches are ideal for outdoor summer meals. To make your own tartar sauce, mix together nonfat plain yogurt, fresh dill, finely chopped pickles, and salt and pepper to taste.

1 tablespoon expeller-pressed canola oil, divided, plus more for the grill 1 cup fresh or frozen lima beans (prepared according to the package directions and cooled) 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1 cup fresh or frozen and thawed yellow corn kernels 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, divided 4 (6-ounce) boneless, skinless swordfish steaks 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 crusty rolls, such as ciabatta, split and toasted 1/4 cup tartar sauce

• Prepare the grill for medium-high heat cooking, oiling the grill grates if needed. • Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, toss together lima beans, corn, onion, pepper, parsley, lemon juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the oil and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt to make a succotash; set aside. • Brush swordfish with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil and season all over with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper. Grill, flipping once, until just charred on the outside and opaque in the center, 7 to 9 minutes. Top rolls with swordfish, tartar sauce and a generous serving of succotash. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Coming In August

fitbody

Natural Awakenings

Explores Learning that Good Clean Fun Transforms Water Sports Lives Saying No to Children’s Health and Summer Fun

a Wave of Trash

by Avery Mack

T

“

To advertise or participate in our August edition, call

203-885-4674 64

Fairfield County Edition

Be a hero, habitats as an investment. he ocean is my bliss.

My job lets me do walking take pollution beachSemiannual what I love and call cleanups, an Oregon down to zero. tradition for 30 years, have it work,” says Andrea Neal, Ph.D., founder and CEO removed 2.8 million pounds ~ National Park of Blue Ocean Sciences, a of trash, largely comprising Service scientific collaboration seekcigarette butts, fishing ropes ing healthy water solutions, and plastic bottles. Unusual in Ojai, California. “When I surf, I’m items include telephone poles and a in sync with water and air at the same 200-pound Styrofoam block. In the 2014 time.” One time during a Scandinavian spring campaign, 4,800 volunteers that snowfall, she donned a wet suit to ride treasure coastal recreational activities eight-foot waves; after splashdown, she removed an estimated 24 tons of litter emerged with ice-tipped eyelashes and and marine debris (solv.org). What West a huge grin. “I’ve never been so cold, Coasters see can also show up in Japan but it was glorious!” and vice versa, so coordinated cleanup

Neal likens scuba diving to enterefforts benefit outdoor enthusiasts in ing another world, revealing nature’s both countries. undersea glories. “Crabs sneak a peek

Lake Tahoe, on the California/ and you’re face-to-face with fish. Sea Nevada border, beckons paddleboard, lions want to play,” she says. “I’ve also raft, canoe and kayak aficionados. Last had great white sharks cruise by and year, volunteers for the Great Sierra give me an intimidating nudge.”

River Cleanup, a Sierra Nevada Con It’s not just sharks and extreme servancy project, finessed the condition weather that swimmers, divers and water- of this recreational site by picking up a craft enthusiasts worry about these days— ton of trash in and near the water and it’s trash, too. The most basic requirement were able to recycle 600 pounds of it for safe water sports is clean water. Plas(Tinyurl.com/SierraRiverCleanup). tics, paper and other debris, ranging from Desert winds, combined with flat microscopic toxins to everyday garbage, landscapes, blow Las Vegas debris into pose life-threatening hazards to human Nevada’s Lake Mead. Operation Zero – and marine life. “I want my kids and their Citizens Removing and Eliminating Waste, kids to share in what I’ve experienced,” ferries volunteers to a cove accessible exclaims Neal, part of the global scienonly by boat to clean and enjoy the area tific community redefining clean water (Tinyurl.com/LakeMeadOperationZero).

natural awakenings

“In the spring, when waters are high, Rivers for Change sponsors paddling races and other California river events to highlight the importance of clean water. Starting in September and continuing through the winter months, they partner with water use organizations and land trusts to help clean up waterways like the Sacramento River.” ~ Matt Palmarillo, California 100 event director, RiversForChange.org

The improved natural environment attracts visitors to the lake to try new sports like wakesurfing, riding the water behind a wave-producing boat by dropping the tow line once waves form. The more adventurous go

wakeboarding, which combines water skiing, snowboarding and surfing skills as the rider becomes airborne between waves. The more advanced sport of waterskating requires more stylish skateboarder moves.

Further inland, Adopt-a-Beach volunteers help keep the Great Lakes clean.

More than a beach sweep, volunteers regularly monitor litter throughout the year and perform a complete beach health assessment on each visit. The eight Great Lakes border states—Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin—benefit from teams of volunteers continually working to improve beach health (GreatLakes.org/adoptabeach).

Moving south, Project AWARE cleans up Iowa’s waterways, “one stretch of river, one piece of trash at a time” (Tinyurl.com/IowaAware). Stand up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are popular river activities.

Paddlers collect litter en route and leave it in designated bins at access points.

In Missouri, the Big River beckons.

Jeff Briggs, an insurance adjustor in High Ridge, tubes the mile-plus stretch between dams at Rockford Beach Park and Byrnes Mill. “When we’re tubing, it’s just for enjoyment,” he says. “For a longer float, we take the jon boat so there’s space to stow trash.”

Table Rock Lake, in southern Missouri, draws fishermen and water sports enthusiasts. Their WK Lewis Shoreline Cleanup has removed 179 tons of trash in 10 years. In 2013, 670 volunteers filled 11 dumpsters (Tinyurl. com/WK-Lewis-Cleanup).

“It takes love and commitment, patience and persistence to keep cleaning up habitats,” says Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., co-founder of four grassroots water advocacy groups.

“Clean water is important though, to sustain fit life on the planet.”

Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via AveryMack@ mindspring.com.

How Trash Impacts Marine Life

by Avery Mack “No matter where you live, trash can travel from your hands to storm drains to streams and on to the sea. The problem of ocean trash is entirely preventable, and you can make a difference,” advises the Ocean Conservancy.

The Ocean Trash Index provides information by state and country on how much and what kind of trash enters our waterways. Each fall, data is collected during the organization’s International Coastal Cleanup oneday campaign both on land and under water. About 10 million pounds of trash was collected worldwide in 2013; of that total, 3.5 million pounds, or nearly 35 percent, originated in the U.S.

The most common offenses include discarded cigarette butts and filters, food wrappers, plastic bottles and bags, beverage caps and lids, cups, plates, utensils, straws and stirrers, glass bottles, aluminum cans and paper bags. All of it could have been recycled, including the cigarettes (see RippleLife.org/butts).

Trash enters the water from illegal or thoughtless dumping, extreme weather events, a crashed plane, sunken boat, lost fishing traps, nets or lines, movie props or windblown litter. For example, a plastic bag blows out of the trash can or truck, enters a storm drain or creek and moves into rivers and the ocean, where it endangers marine life, swimmers and watercraft.

Water boards in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area recognize that voluntary measures aren’t enough to solve the problem. Some cities in the Los Angeles area have implemented fullcapture systems designed to trap debris greater than five millimeters in size.

Prevention is obviously the least expensive, safest and easiest way to keep water clean. To protect local, regional and global waters, follow the familiar refrain of recycle, reuse, repair and repurpose. Be thoughtful about what’s in the trash can and keep it securely closed. Move the car on street

sweeping days—along with dust, dirt and leaves, a street sweeper picks up animal waste and oil from cars.

Ask for and advocate less packaging on commonly used products, stiffer fines for polluters and increased funding for enforcement and research.

Knowing what comprises most trash helps consumers demand product redesigns and new policies that address the most problematic items and materials, explains Nicholas Mallos, a marine debris specialist with the Ocean Conservancy.

Rippl is a free mobile application that can help users practice what they preach in making simple, sustainable choices by delivering weekly green living tips, available at OceanConservancy. org/Do-Your-Part/Rippl.html. A safe, fun day near, on, in or under the water starts with green practices at home.

For details visit Tinyurl.com/ CoastalCleanupReport.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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CJ Golden and Tracy LaCroix - Cape Charles, VA

inspiration

Returning from Beyond: A Message of Hope, Peace, and Kindness

by Natasha Michaels and CJ Golden

W

hen Newtown, Connecticut-based writer and speaker CJ Golden met Tracy LaCroix by seeming happenstance on a journey through the Delmarva Peninsula of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia in 2013, the meeting changed her outlook on life. A strapping fifty-oneyear-old man with a big presence, both in physical size and charm, LaCroix explained to Golden that he had come to Virginia via New Hampshire and Springfield, Massachusetts.

Springfield, Massachusetts is the home of Baystate Medical Center and that is where, on June 5, 2012, LaCroix’s heart flat-lined for an hour-and-a-half.

LaCroix is an “experiencer,” a term increasingly used to describe those who have been through a near-deathexperience (NDE). During the time his medical team franti66

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

cally performed CPR, LaCroix was taking a spiritual journey to what he described as the gates of Heaven. NDEs are not religious experiences per se (many atheists are experiencers), but rather are spiritual awakenings which may call into question the experiencer’s previously held beliefs. During LaCroix’s journey he did not see those who had passed before him, nor did he see a higher power. But he did “experience” what he called God and was offered entrance into a place he described as Heaven. He was also offered a choice: the opportunity to stay in that heavenly realm or return and finish his life’s work. LaCroix made the choice to return - without real understanding what his life’s work might actually be. He exercised his free will to consciously re-enter the physical existence he had known before, but he returned a changed man.

A man who had been a seeker, often searching for “something” to hold onto, LaCroix came back to life with a transformed spirit, renewed faith, and eagerness to share the lessons he had received.

Foremost among these is that we are on Earth to bring hope, peace and kindness to each other; that each of us is tasked with bringing kindness into the world in any and every way we can. This message of hope from LaCroix is meant for all who have suffered great loss, knowing that while we mourn, those who have gone beyond are already safe and in a very beautiful, peaceful place.

When LaCroix learned Golden lives in Newtown, Connecticut, he believed she was brought to him, not by accident, but by Universal design to write this book and share his message with her grieving neighbors.

Spreading this message of hope, peace, and kindness is the reason LaCroix believes he was offered the opportunity to come back from the gates of Heaven; he believes this is the life’s work he has yet to finish. Through the book written

by Golden about his experience, LaCroix is bringing healing and peace to many more people. And, when the time comes for him to go back to that other realm he will not be afraid.

He has already been there and knows it is beautiful.

CJ Golden resides in Newtown. She is a motivational speaker and author of Tao of the Defiant Woman, Tao-Girls Rule! and the recently published Reflections From Beyond. Visit her at TaoGirl.com and ReflectionsFromBeyond.com.

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

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calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by July 12th (for August 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.

markyourcalendar Living an Abundant Life

Abundance is more than just money!

Saturday, July 12 • 10am-5pm It’s about attracting new experiences, creating loving relationships with yourself and others, manifesting the life you want!

Join Lisa Jacoby and Caroline Temple Guest House Retreat Center, Chester, CT 203-981-7092 or UnleashPotential.us Simply, transformational

Wednesday, July 2 BellyGong - Fusion of Bellydance and Qigong for Women’s Wellness – 7-8pm. Bellydance celebrates women of all ages and stages of life. Women’s Qigong enhances body awareness and energy for whole body health. $18/class. No membership required.

BreakThru Family Fitness, 48 Union St, 2nd Bldg.

Stamford. 203-663-3000 ext 5. Linda@BalanceIntegratedHealth.com. BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

Saturday, July 5 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 9am-5:15pm. with Gigi Benanti. Learn Reiki Level 1 in the Western style from an experienced Reiki Master. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others.

Includes 4 powerful energy connections. Receive 2 manuals and certificate $115 + $10 towards material. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, (enter private office downstairs in back), Norwalk.

Register: 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

markyourcalendar The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition’s

Meet and Greet and Tour of Holcomb Farm

Tuesday, July 22 & Wednesday, August 20 • 6:30-8pm

Meet staff and students, tour the farm and garden, enjoy our wild edibles, whip up a simple dish. Learn about our one-year certification program. Free.

Holcomb Farm 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby To Register: 860-764-9070 68

Fairfield County Edition

Spiritual Psychic Fair – 12-5pm. Gifted and caring psychic intuitive readers. Mediumship, Tarot Cards, Pendulum, Angel Cards, Palmistry, Shamanic sessions available. Sessions approximately 25 mins. Reiki healing for people and animals available. Animals must be leashed or crated. Appointments taken at AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. Walk-Ins always welcome. $40+/readings. $20/reiki healing. 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Sunday, July 6 Diving into your Psychic Depths with Adele McDowell – 1-2:15pm. Dive into the depths of quietude to access your psyche and intuition. Experience energy techniques that ground, center, and align.

Via meditation, connect with personal symbology and strengthen inner guidance to aid the healing process. This meditation allows you to find, discover, and discern what calls for your attention and, perhaps, action. $20. 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Tuesday, July 8 Take Shape For Life Seminar – 6:30pm. With Dr. Mark Joachim. Are you struggling with your weight and related health issues such as joint pain, diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure?

Learn an easy and simple way of losing fat, not just weight, without counting calories? Free. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care. 156 East Ave, Norwalk. RSVP: 203-838-1555.

Pranic Elevation and Auric Radiance: A Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 6:30-8:30pm. with S.S. Mahan Rishi Singh Khalsa, D.C. and Nirbhe Kaur Khalsa. Utilizing your Pranic force, Kundalini yoga kriyas and meditations we will elevate and expand into the etheric realms... deepening our connection with subtle and sublime dimensions of our own creativity. $35/by 7/1, $45/thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642.

Info@Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Wednesday, July 9 Free Introduction to Reiki – 7-8:30pm. This is the place to start if you’re simply curious about Reiki or interested in learning more about how to heal yourself and others. Beth Leas will share 20 years experience using Reiki in this fun, explorative and interesting evening. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203.856.9566. Beth@BethLeas.com.

BethLeas.com.

Friday, July 11 Vision Board Workshop: Create a Treasure Map to Your Desires – 10am-12pm. Do you have a vision board? Jack Canfield says “They are one of the most valuable visualization tools available to you because they represent your dreams, your goals, your ideal life.” Join us for a fun few hours which will lead you to the hidden side of your authentic self. $45.

natural awakenings

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Earth, Wind, Water, Fire Re-connect with The Earth through the Elements of Nature Saturday, July 26 • 8:45am-5pm

With Ann Reeves. Deepen your awareness of the healing gifts of the natural world in a slow, experiential manner.

Use grounding, breathing, moving, meditation, poetry, clay, drumming, and time outside to explore each element and re-connect. Simple farm lunch provided. We will be indoors and outside, dress accordingly. $95.

Sticks and Stones Farm 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown RSVP or questions: call 203-270-8820 SticksAndStonesFarm.com for directions TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203.856.9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Saturday, July 12 Healing for the Heart in the Cave – 6:30-8:30pm.

Join us for a group healing/meditation led by Svaha and Manjushri. This evening is all about the Heart. Forgiveness is an integral part of this healing. When we allow ourselves to forgive we open our heart more than we ever thought possible and this allows love to grow. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. RSVP at 203-969-4327.

SaltanaCave.com.

Sunday, July 13 Kirtan in the Cave – 4-5:30pm. Join Sita’s Light on a journey through the sacred mantra sounds of ancient India with call and response group chanting for a unique and unforgettable evening of sound and spirit. Kirtan (chanting) is a meditative practice that opens the heart and brings great joy and peace.

Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. RSVP at 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

Tuesday, July 15 Healthy Happy Hour – 6:30-8pm. with Dr. Michael Finkelstein Discover the health and lifestyle choices that will finally help you look and feel your best. Dr. Finkelstein uses a more holistic approach to his work to guide his patients to extraordinary health. His book, 77 Questions for Skillful Living is endorsed by Dr. Oz and Dr. Weil. Free. Green & Tonic, 7 Strickland Rd, Cos Cob. 855.GO.GandT. JM@GreenAndTonic.com. GreenAndTonic.com.

TLC Healing Circle – 7-9pm. This fun, experiential evening is for the curious, first timers and practitioners of all modalties/levels. Start with a healing circle meditation led by Beth Leas and then everyone will have the opportunity to receive/give minisessions. Open to all. $20 suggested donation. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Wednesday, July 16 Albertson Healing Service – 7:30-8:30pm. Guided meditation to aid us in our connection with divine spirit. Opportunity to sit in a healing chair to receive hands on shoulders Reiki healing from a church designated healer. Or sit quietly and experience the peace and serenity of our sanctuary. All are welcome. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

markyourcalendar Buddhist Seminar

Resolving the Identity Project Understanding the Spiritual Individuation Process Saturday, July 26 • 10am-4pm Seminar—Discussion—Meditation Sticks and Stones Farm 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown Limited space Pre-registration required 203-994-7295 Bring Your Lunch and Beverage

Thursday, July 17 Feng Shui Class in the Cave – 6:30-8:30pm. Anna Maria Kinberg combines her intuitive abilities with her knowledge of the Feng Shui and Interior Design to bring her client’s desires to fruition. The goal of Feng Shui in both modern and ancient times is to create harmony between people and their surroundings. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

RSVP at 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

Sunday, July 20 Reiki Level I Training – 10am-2pm. With Virginia Trinque, Reiki Master Teacher Reiki is positive lifeforce energy healing. Learn about it’s origins and the hand positions for healing yourself and others. You will receive a Reiki Level I individual attunement, a certificate, a manual and you will practice laying your hands on others in the class. Become part of our healing community. Call for class fee and location. RSVP 203-733-1330. Danbury. 203-798-1708.

VirginiaNaturalAwakenings@gmail.com.

A Radically Successful You: Easy New Ways to Achieve Any Goal, Fast! – 1-3:30pm. with Priscilla Keresey. In this workshop learn: Why you may not be succeeding right now, how successful people deal with obstacles, what success really is, six steps to creating and programming automatic success habits. Free copy Live & Learn Guide™ e-book A Radically Successful You: Easy New Ways to Achieve Any Goal, Fast! $40. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

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Empowering Through Beauty Expo 2014 A Celebration of Beauty

Saturday, July 26 • 5-10pm This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Stamford Old Town Hall 175 Atlantic St • Stamford etbexpo.com

Tuesday, July 22 Take Shape For Life Seminar – 6:30pm. With Dr. Mark Joachim. Are you struggling with your weight and related health issues such as joint pain, diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure?

Learn an easy and simple way of losing fat, not just weight, without counting calories? Free. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care. 156 East Ave, Norwalk. RSVP: 203-838-1555.

Wednesday, July 23 Creating a Vision Board: A Treasure Map to Your Desires – 7-9pm. Do you have a vision board? Jack Canfield says “They are one of the most valuable visualization tools because they represent your dreams, your goals, your ideal life.” Join us for a fun few hours which will lead you to the hidden side of your authentic self. $45. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Intro to Tarot: Reading Your Own Cards – 7-9:30pm. with Cathy Prins. Begin to discover the meaning behind the tarot positions. Learn helpful resources to continue study and practice exercises of self-exploration to personal relationship with the cards. Students will need a Rider-Waite Tarot deck.

Available for purchase ($25) at workshop or bring your own. $45/by 7/16. $55/thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642.

Info@Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Reiki Refresher For All Levels – 7:30-9:30pm. Reiki Practitioners only. Group class techniques taught that will help raise reiki vibration. Deepen your Reiki. Please bring: Reiki Certificates from in person classes. Shared by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master included is a re-attunement. $38 +$8 material fee. Must RSVP: 203-852-1150. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, (enter private office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Friday, July 25 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.

9am -5pm. with Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher.

Learn Reiki 2rd Degree in the Western style from an experienced Reiki Master. Learn how to send distance Reiki healing, deepen your use of Reiki for others and yourself, included newest info, 2 powerful energy connections. Receive 2 manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, (enter private office downstairs in back), Norwalk. RSVP: 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Saturday, July 26 Crystal and Tibetan Bowls Music in the Cave – 6-7:30pm. The music Cynthia and Rick make is a combination of the energies present in the venue, the crystal bowls, and the people who attend. The audience is also an active participant by the energy that they bring with their presence. Music is composed in the moment and not pre-rehearsed. $65. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. RSVP at 203969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

Sunday, July 27 Drumming with DeeAnn Macomson, HeartBeat Rhythms Facilitator – 1-3pm. Drum circle with rhythm exercises connects participants with others in the circle. Basic drumming techniques introduced. No prior drumming experience necessary.

Drums are provided or bring your own drum, rattle or portable instrument. $40. Albertson Memorial

markyourcalendar WALTER LUEBECK

Spiritual Rainbow Reiki Master Healer and Shaman returns to North Haven!

Pre-requisites for all classes

Usui Reiki II or Rainbow Reiki II Sept 19-21 • 9am-6pm Rainbow Reiki Advanced Metaphysical Healing • $450 Sept 20 • 8-9:30 pm Magic Drumming Concert No pre-requisites • $15 Sept 22 • 9am-6pm Rainbow Reiki Parents & Children Energy Work for a Happy Family • $220 Sept 23 • 9am-6pm Rainbow Reiki Loving Relationships • $220 Sept 24 • 9am-6pm Rainbow Reiki Vocation & Success • $220

Details/register: 860-933-4349 Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org Seance - Talking to the Dead with Psychic Medium Joan Carra – 1-3:30pm. Find comfort and closure with messages from passed loved ones. $55/person, small group. Location to be decided. Register: 203 531-6387 or PsychicJoan@yahoo.com. PsychicJoanCarra.com.

Tuesday, July 29 Power of Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Thousands of years prove it - Western science backs it. Meditation improves focus, lowers blood pressure, relieves pain, reduces stress and opens the door to real happiness.

Sponsored by ProMindful and led by Beth Leas, includes guided meditation. Don’t miss out! Must preregister. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. ProMindful.org.

markyourcalendar Wellness for Your Spirit Fair & Open House

Saturday, August 9 • 3-9pm • Free Classes & Workshops (Fall Preview) • Kundalini Yoga & Seven Spiritual Steps yoga • Tibetan Bowl Sound Healing Concert • Sacred Fire Drum Circle and Belly Dance • Family music • Energy Sessions, Tarot & Angel • Readings and Vendors!

At SOUND Center for Arts & Mindfulness 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown

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ongoingevents sunday

monday

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.

Monthly Mutual Support-Alternative Cancer – 10:30am-12pm. 1st Monday every month. Starting monthly mutual support meeting for those choosing to treat our cancer diagnoses alternatively. A happy, positive connection starting. Free. At Silvermine studio, Norwalk. RSVP: 203-847-2561.

CHANTSFORMATIONS-A Chant & Meditation Experience – 9-9:45am. With Andrea Rudolph, Jewish Interfaith Minister. Join us as we gather to contemplate and nurture the Spirit within through the practice of chant & meditation. No prior Hebrew knowledge required. All Faiths Welcome. Suggested donation: $10. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-257-1009. InTheSpiritofLife@ gmail.com. InTheSpiritofLifecom.

Intuitive Readings By Caroline – 1-4pm. Come play in the psychic realm! Past Lives & Spirit Messages. Find out how your past lives reflect in your current life. Mondays. In Stamford. $35/30 minute reading. Call for location/RSVP: 914-318-4845.

Spiritual Sunday Services – 10-11am. Please Join Us…as we build community and celebrate life, hope, healing, love and Spirit. A one-hour service followed by community hour from 11am to noon.

The Arc Sacred Center is a non-profit spiritual community center created for the purpose of offering a gathering place for spiritual exploration and teaching, freedom of spiritual expression and healing for the body, mind and soul. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Interfaith Service Gathering – 10-11am. A community to celebrate life, hope, healing, love and Spirit. Followed by a community hour from 11am-12pm. My Little Light Children’s Program is available during the service. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Mahasati or 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.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Reiki Volunteers – 10am-12pm. 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-12pm. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports one’s spiritual unfoldment. Great music by award-winning singers. Childcare provided. Fellowship hour after the service. All are welcome. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St (above Ford dealership), Norwalk.

203-855-7922.

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.

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Fairfield County Edition

Flying Aerial Yoga Beginner Series – 6-7pm.

With Carla Zilka. Basic techniques of how to use the hammock and how to invert safely. Same flow as a yoga class, warm up, asana and ending with Savasana or Cocoon. No food or drink 30-60 minutes before class. You must complete 4 Beginner classes before being entered into the Level 1/2 Classes. $25/per class by 5/19. Yoga for Everybody Annex, 63 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642.

Info@Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Reiki Circle – 7-8pm. With Linda Radice, Reiki Master. Connect with community, conversation and collective healing energy. Chakra meditation. $15. Balance Integrated Health, 1450 Washington Blvd, Suite 104 South, Stamford. 203-663-3000, ext 5. Linda@BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

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

Mahasati or 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.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Tapping for Abundance – 7-8:30pm. Break free of old negative blocks and install new conscious programming regarding abundance. 4-week workshop (some 28 day exercises, suggested though not necessary to do it all) and 4 mid-week goodies. No class on 6/16. $40/week, $120/all. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-247-1318. Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com.

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

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

Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633.

natural awakenings

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. Last Monday. With JoAnn Duncan. JoAnn hosts Reiki shares for those interested in practicing 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 for all. $20. Registration required. The Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-438-3050 or TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:30am.

First Tuesday of the month. 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. 203-8569566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCcenter.com.

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

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

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

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6 weeks old pre-crawling – 11:15am-12pm. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep. Great opportunity to bond with your baby and connect with other moms. Please preregister for free trial at FamilyTreeYoga.net. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford.

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

Lunchtime Yoga in Downtown Stamford – 12-1pm. Take a wellness break during your day.

Release stress, re-energize, find balance with vinyasa flow yoga. $20/drop-in. 4/$68 or 8/$120. Call 914-393-9221. Limitless-Potential.net Mahasati or 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.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Women’s Creative Mediterranean Movement – 6pm. Learn to be graceful, tone and creative with Maria Fiora. Class uses many forms of dance with Maria’s Mediterranean style, gaining flexibility, creativity and confidence. Learn to move your arms gracefully, understand how beautiful the body can be and get toned in the process. 4 class series. Classes are small for more personal attention. $70/1-month. Maria Fiora Dance Studio, 456 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford. 203-570-5440.

Maria@DanceWithMaria.com. DanceWithMaria.com.

Gentle Yoga Class – 6-7pm. Perfect for beginners and people with physical difficulties such as back pain and knee pain. $10. Fairfield County Integrative Family Medicine and Healing Therapies, 2 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. Registration required: 203-445-9060.

Albertson Church Healing Service – 7-8pm. 3rd 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.

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.

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

Qigong for Every BODY – 7-8pm. Health enhancement based on Chinese 5 Elements.

A great way to end the day to reduce stress, tension and fatigue. Strengthen immune and organ function, increase energy levels, mental clarity and slow aging process. $15. Balance Integrated Health, 1450 Washington Blvd, 1st Flr, Ste 104 South, Stamford. 203-663-3000, ext 5. Linda@BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

Radical Forgiveness – 7-8:15pm. With Rev Shawn Moninger. Let go of anger & blame and find peace in any situation. Explore the five essential stages of Radical Forgiveness and learn a series of quick, effective and easy-to-use techniques. Six Tuesdays begins April 15th. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Food, Freedom & Fun – 7-8:30pm. 4-week seminar will discuss common nutrition questions and myths. Find out what is safe, real and how you can start immediately to change the way you look and feel. Suggested $80/4 weeks. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

Geri@ZatcoffWellness.com. UnityCenterPS.org.

Angelic Healing Group—7-9pm, 1st 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. 1st and 3rd 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 Guided Meditation – 1-1:45pm. 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.

Radical Self Forgiveness – 7-8:15pm. Explore the five essential stages of Radical Forgiveness and how they help us transcend the victim archetype and embrace the inherent perfection of life. 4-week class. Begins, July 16 with Rev Shawn Moninger.

All classes offered on a Love Offering basis. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

Office@UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Mahasati or 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.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Psychic Development Class – 7-8:30pm. Every other Wednesday, begins March 12 for March series of 6 classes. Please bring journal and pen. Reserve a spot at Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel.

203-570-3868. Soul-focus.me.

Journey Within: Do You Feel Stuck? – 7-9pm. 1st 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: 203-4269448. SacredGrounds.bz. TrinityProduction.org.

thursday 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.

Monthly Tapping Group – 10-11:30am. Last Thursday. EFT together for stress reduction, conflict resolution, abundance, whatever the group dictates.

Free. Darien. Reservation required: 203-202-4174.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. 1st Thursday. By Gigi Benanti Reiki. All welcome to share and experience Reiki. $20. Held at Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. Gigi: 203-852-1150.

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

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Channeled Messages and Meditations – 7:309:30pm, 4th 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. Ridgefield. Call 203-4384893, space is limited.

friday

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. 2nd Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk.

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.

Monthly Relaxation Class – 7:30-8:30pm. 1st Wednesday. Reduce stress with Hypnosis by Clinical Hypnotist, Meg Tocantins. Space is limited. $90.

Stamford Healthcare Associates, 1425 Bedford St, 1G, Stamford. Register by texting: 917-292-8115.

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

203-438-3050 or TurningPointReiki.com.

Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced.

Themes and speakers cover the legal, financial and emotional issues encountered during or in the aftermath of divorce. Redding Center for Meditation, $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required.

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

Couples “Beyond Words” Movement Series– 8-9:30pm. with Maria Fiora. 3 sessions. 1.5hr each. Couples series teaches communication and intimacy using dance movement and music.

Maximum 4 couples. Semi-private series. Wine and refrehments will be served. $200/per couple. Maria Fioras Dance Studio, 456 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford.

203-570-5440. Maria@DanceWithMaria.com.

DanceWithMaria.com.

Tai Chi and Tea – 10-11am. A great way to start your day and achieve therapeutic benefits with easy, gentle movements to improve circulation, coordination, balance and joint mobility. Standing or seated optional. $15/class, $10/Seniors 60+.

Balance Integrated Health, 1450 Washington Blvd, 1st Flr, Ste 104 South, Stamford. 203-663-3000 ext 5. Linda@BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

BalanceIntegratedHealth.com.

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

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ongoingevents friday Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6 weeks old-Precrawling – 11:15am-12pm. 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.

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.

TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Tarot Friday – 7-9pm. Have fun with Beth with this self-help tool for novices to longtime tarot friends to explore the Tarot or develop a deeper relationship with your cards. $40. TLC Center Norwalk, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

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

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

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

Beach Yoga & Meditation – 8:30-9:45am. Nourish your body, mind and spirit as you practice gentle flow yoga and meditation. Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk. Every Saturday through September, weather pending. $20/drop-in. 4/$68 or 8/$120. Call 914393-9221. Limitless-Potential.net Mahasati or 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.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

The Universal Reiki Plan – 1:30-4:30pm. 3rd 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.

Reiki Session – 5-6pm. Offering free Reiki sessions during classes. Students participate as part of class syllabus. 1st reserved. ReikiOvertones, 95 Harris St, Fairfield. Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net.

ReikiOvertones.com.

Fairfield County Edition

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany on the piano. Comedians, poets and writers welcomed as well. $10. Unity Center, 3 Main St (above the Ford dealership), Norwalk.

203-855-7922.

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

Help Wanted

Join like-minded wellness practitioners - psychotherapy, spiritual life coaching, massage and energy work - in a great location in Monroe on Monroe Turnpike. We have one office left for your wellness practice. Enjoy support of a conscious community and the benefits of being listed on our website and in email blasts to more than 500 local families. Share common areas and full kitchen. The building invites a sigh of peace as you and your clients walk in the doors. Email Chris at ArcSacredCenter@gmail.com to visit. Part or full time at a very reasonable rent.

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.

Part-time rental space for Holistic health practitioner. Weekday/weekends available. $175 month. Newtown. 203-270-1119.

S pace available at W estport Therapeutic, LLC. Ideal for LMT or body worker. Join a holistic team of professionals, great space, good parking, near train station. Office is available 3+ days per week, rent $400/mo., includes all utilities, wifi. Near new Saugatuck development. Call Rosalie 203 454-1402 or email Ro@WestportTherapeutic.com.

Space Available in small Wellness Center 2-3 days/week in Bethel location in time slots of 4-hr minimum. Open area perfect for Yoga, Pilates, Offices for Reiki, Massage, Counseling and Readings, etc. 203-570-3868.

for SALE Wooded 6 acre prime building lot in gated lake community. Woods at Duck Harbor in Equinunk, PA, near NY state border and Honesdale, PA. Lot borders protected PA game land, gorgeous mountain views in fall and winter, walk to lake. Low taxes and maintenance fees. If interested, call 914-763-0464.

The Universal Reiki Plan – 11am-1pm. 3rd 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.

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

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

natural awakenings

M assage T herapist e x panding office; seeks licensed therapists for Monroe location. Please send resume, including training and experience by modality. Interest in energy work a plus! Must be licensed and insured. Send resume to Lauri at TheEthericCenter@outlook.com.

SERVICES Get to the root cause of chronic disEASE. To pill away your symptoms is giving your power away. Challenge your physical, emotional and psychological issues.

Experience the peace within. Call 203-550-5996.

SoundEqualEnergy.com.

Natural Health Writer – Four years’ experience writing articles, blogs, newsletters and brochures for natural health practitioners. Social media. $25 per hour. References. 203-886-7381.

Would you like to take a fresh look to renew an area in your life with exquisite professional coaching? Telephone sessions available. Coaching Coterie. 203-219-7358.

communityresourceguide

Nina Antolino, RYT, RMT, MBA

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 10.

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 49.

Astrological Life Coach Joy Yascone, MA

Certified Empowerment Life Coach, Reiki Master Certified Interdisciplinary Yoga Instructor Founder & Executive Director, Limitless Potential Norwalk • 914-393-9221 Nantolino@aol.com • Limitless-Potential.net

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

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

X TO RAYS.COM

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

Certified DITI thermographer.

Conveniently located throughout Fairfield.

A unique, integrative approach which empowers and guides you to create the life you want. You gain the practical tools, motivation and commitment necessary to achieve your goals. I specialize in women’s empowerment and wellness. I blend my business background, holistic training and empowerment coaching to guide women to reach for more than they ever believed possible.

CHIROPRACTIC Black Rock Holistic Health Center Kristine DeMarco, DC, MS, FIAMA 825 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield 203-333-6544 • DeMarcoChiropractic.com

Kristine M. DeMarco, Doctorate of Chiropractic and founder of the Black Rock Holistic Health Center, has been successfully specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal problems for over 12 years. She is certified in “Cox Flexion Distraction Technique,” Graston Technique, Applied Kinesiology and Acupuncture. Specializes in disc problems, LBP, neck pain and musculoskeletal pain.

See ad page 7.

Risa Sloves, DC

CANCER TREATMENT

3rd generation Intuitive/Astrological Life Coach/MA Holistic Health 914-341-2070 • Joy@JoysPantry.com AstrologicalLifeCoach.com

Advanced Medicine of Mt. Kisco, PC

As an astrological life coach and gifted intuitive, I provide accurate guidance with precise timing. I utilize my intuitive, gift and your astrological chart to coach you to success in love, marriage, career, finance & health. These coaching sessions are transformative and priceless. Please call for monthly specials. Sessions available by phone or Skype.

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

Call for free consultation.

NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings is published in 90 U.S. markets and Puerto Rico.

To advertise with us, call: 203-885-4674

COACHING

Neil Raff MD CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CtChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques.

Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad page 9.

COLONICS

COACHING COLONICS

Healy Coaching Solutions

Anna Healy, Certified Columbia University Coach Fairfield & Westchester County 617-852-3027 AHealy@HealyCS.com • HealyCS.com Anna works with individuals to help ‘get out of their heads’ so they can become aware of the habits, patterns and blocks impacting personal transformation.

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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COLONICS WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

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

Detoxification Advanced Medicine of Mt. Kisco, PC

Neil Raff MD CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com Westchester’s most experienced office for the detection and treatment of toxic metals (lead, mercury, aluminum, etc), the underlying cause of many inflammatory, immune and digestive conditions.

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

EDUCATION Housatonic Valley Waldorf School

ENERGY HEALING

HEALTH COACH

Virginia Trinque, Usui Reiki Master

Mary Gilbertson MS, BSN,CHHC

844-733-1330, Danbury VirginiasHealthyLiving@gmail.com VirginiasHealthyLiving.com

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

HALOTHERAPY (Salt therapy) Saltana Cave

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

HEALING CENTER

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org

Rev. Christine Guerrera, LMFT

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 13.

Psychotherapist, Interfaith Minister ARC Sacred Center, Monroe 203-268-1272 • ARCSacredCenter.org

Chris is a licensed psychotherapist and inter-spiritual teacher offering psycho-spiritual therapy and sacred ceremonies such as baby blessings, weddings, interfaith gatherings and healing workshops. See ad page 59.

ENERGY HEALING 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.

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Forza5 Holistic Fitness and Healing Center 1047 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-247-4175

Forza5 is a center that focuses on bringing the fitness and healing worlds together. A beautiful, fully equipped gym offers personal training or group classes. A meditation and yoga room offers tranquil space where we connect our minds and spirits through meditation, reiki,and intuitive readings.

natural awakenings

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 58.

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

5520 Park Ave, Ste 301, Ffld Town Line Merritt Pkwy, Exit 47 203-371-0300 • WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer.

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

Hypnosis MIND BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 • MindBodyTransformation.com Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad page 42.

INTEGRATIVE HealTH Bliss Nutrition & Wellness, LLC Gail Perrella, MS, CNS 2103 Main St, Stratford 203-710-3925 • Blissnutritionct.com

BioEnergetic Assessment (BEA) is a cutting-edge, non-invasive tool to measure pathways of energy flowing in the body. Natural healing is increasing harmony between one’s body and the natural environment. BEA provides information which makes it possible to achieve greater health and well-being, naturally.

INTEGRATIVE HealTH Worden Wellness Center

Thomas Worden, DC 41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury 203-244-8801 DocWorden@WordenWellnessCenter.com WordenWellnessCenter.com At Worden Wellness Center, we use an integrated approach of chiropractic, acupuncture and nutrition to incorporate therapeutic lifestyle changes to help you reach your optimum health. Dr. Worden has been practicing in Danbury for 25 years. See ad page 18.

Integrative Medicine Physician RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD 1200 East Putnam Ave, Riverside 203-637-3337 Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology in Greenwich, C T, p a r t o f S t a m f o r d Health Integrated Practices, an affiliate of Stamford Hospital, is a full-service medical practice incorporating traditional and holistic approaches to women’s health. The practice includes one OB/GYN and a naturopathic physician. See ad page 19.

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, MD 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 12.

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

Massage & Bodywork

Joan Carra, Psychic Medium

Robin Ordan, LMT, LCSW, CICMI

203-531-6387 PsychicJoanCarra.com Facebook.com/PsychicJoan.Carra

Joan is recommended by six books and has 20 years experience. Find solutions, comfort and closure.

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

Massage & Bodywork

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 28.

Zak Walker, LMT

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 49.

JOY CARBINO

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

Licensed Massage Therapist Holistic Nutrition Consultant & Reiki 203-470-1226 • HealingWhiteLight.com Joy combines her intuitive ability and her expertise in massage therapy to enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Holistic health & nutrition programs also offered. See ad page 16.

Finger Lakes School of Massage

272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 • FLSM.com

Laura Carlson, LMT

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

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

Roberta Russell

Licensed Massage Therapist Reiki and Polarity Practitioner West Redding • 203-438-2354 Beyond-Touch.com Relieve stress and pain. Improve sleep, energy levels, immune system. Swedish and Integrated Deep Tissue Massage styles incorporated with Energy Healing.

Rebalance energy for body, mind and spirit. Restorative and deeply relaxing! 15 years experience. See ad page 11.

programs.

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

MEDITATION Redding Center for Meditation 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org

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.

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Naturopathic Physician Debra Gibson, ND

Naturopathic Physician Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND

ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

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

Healthy Choice Mattress

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years.

Acupuncture, Bio-Identical H o r m o n e s , H o m e o p a t h y, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/ Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad page 61.

Healthy Choice Organic Mattress offers luxury mattresses and bedding made from the highest quality natural materials. With four showrooms, including two in CT, Healthy Choice features locally made mattresses that are chemical and toxin free, biodegradable, comfortable and durable. See ad back cover.

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

Organic Sleep by Sleep Etc.

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 14.

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 24.

Dr. Marina Yanover, ND, LAc

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-431-4443 Natural family healthcare using nutrition and biochemistry; herbal, homeopathic and energetic medicine; lifestyle transformation and detoxification, to promote well-being of body, mind and spirit. See ad page 18.

Natural Health and Wellness Center

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

1300 Post Rd East, Westport 203-255-5005 • BigAppleHealth.com

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

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

Northeast Natural Medicine, LLC Shawn M. Carney, ND 19 Church Hill Rd, Ste 1, Newtown 800-723-2962 • NortheastNatMed.com

Integrative naturopathic medicine clinic and therapeutic massage center for the whole family.

Services include advanced diagnostic testing, detoxification programs, personalized nutrition and botanicals. Insurance accepted.

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natural awakenings

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.

141 Post Rd East, Westport • 203-557-3900 HCMattress.com

508 Main Ave, Norwalk • 203-846-2233 55 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203-323-1509 Founded in 1947, Sleep Etc now offers a new line of socially responsible bedding products, including higher quality, more comfortable and, longer-lasting mattresses. See ad page 15.

The Clean Bedroom

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY Physical Therapy of Southern CT

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY 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 self-discovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

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

At its heart, psychotherapy is soulwork, which helps you reconnect with wounded, buried parts of yourself, finally healing, becoming your true Self – heartful, matured, full. This is not quick-fix, band-aid work. Do yourself justice – mind, body, heart, soul. Journey safely to your Self with Judith. See ad page 11.

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.

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 27.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

RESULTS COACHING

VICTORIA SHAW, PhD

Jeff Forte PEAK Results Coaching

Intuitive Psychotherapist 3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton • 203-210-5700 VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com VictoriaShawintuitive.com

2389 Main St, Glastonbury 860-633-8555 • PeakResultsCoaching.com Want to quickly improve your marriage or personal happiness?

Hope is not a strategy for success.

Call to learn proven strategies to overcome your life challenges. See ad page 22.

I combine the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in my work with children, teens and adults. My goal is to connect clients with their own inner source of strength, wisdom and healing. See ad page 49.

Transformative Healing

REIKI

Beth Prins Leas

EMBODY THE SACRED® Deana Paqua, MA, LMT 203-994-5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

Turn your deepest pain or trauma into your greatest strength.

Shamanic Reiki, Usui/Karuna® Reiki, Shamanic Healing and Bodywork. Offerings in Ridgefield, Danbury and NY areas.

GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com

See ad page 49.

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.

Heart’s Desire Method

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.

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT Reiki Master Ridgefield • 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.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.

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.

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A NEW DAY A NEW APP

displayadvertiserindex Acupuncture Center/Ingri Boe-Wiegaard

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ARC Sacred Center

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Live Green CT!/TLC Center/ Natural Awakenings Marketing Package

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Fairfield County Edition

11

42

NA App

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NA Franchise Sales

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NA Singles.com

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Natural Health & Wellness Center

14

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Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 31

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Newtown Hypnosis

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Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

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Olivette 31

The Center for Naturopathic Medicine/Susan Rzucidlo, ND

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Robin Ordan, LMT

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Chamomille Natural Foods

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Robin Ordan, LCSW

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Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc

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Pangaea Massage

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Courage 2 Change/G. Aisha/Dancing Wolf 11

Passage East Boarding Kennels

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CT-NOFA 32

Peak Results Coaching/Jeff Forte

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Dance Detective/Maria Fiora

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Personal Wellness Center/ Sage Osa

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Detoxified Iodine

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Prescription4Wellness/Mary Gilbertson

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Dog Gone Smart

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Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology

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Roots to Shoots

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Salon Aponte

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Susanne Saltzman, MD

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Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine

12

Eyecare Associates

13

Debra Gibson, ND

18

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Susanne Saltzman, MD/ Homeopathic Remedies Course

The Graduate Institute

SAVOR Healthy Pizza

Growing Solutions

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44

Mrs. Greens Natural Markets

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CLH Counseling/Cynthia Haupt

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17

Mind-Body Transformation

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Buddhist Seminar: Resolving the Identity Project

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Manipura Yoga

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Shearwater Organic Coffee Roasters

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Eliana Grubel

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Simple Scallion

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Habit Change Coach Training Programs

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Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND

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Hands & Paws Reiki for All

56

Victoria Shaw, PhD

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Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli

22

Sticks & Stones Farm

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Stops Pain Plus

41

Thrive Results Coaching/Kristina Hess

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TLC Dog Trainer

54

Total Life Care Center

49

Touch of Sedona

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Unity Center for Practical Spirituality

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Health & Wellness Sports Expo/ Natural Awakenings

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Healthy Choice Mattress

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Healthy Choice Mattress

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Holistic Holiday at Sea

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The Honest Kitchen

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Housatonic Valley Waldorf School

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Hunter Healing Hands

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Ifloat

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The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition

33

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University of Bridgeport Clinics

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Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND 61 Westport Farmers’ Market

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Whole Foods

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Wholistic Pet Services

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Worden Wellness Center

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