Natural Awakenings Fairfield County June 2017

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

feel good • live simply • laugh more

P L A N E T

FREE

Special Edition

Healing Chronic Pain

Marijuana Milk Minus Why Buy the Moo Green Cars? as Medicine

Connecticut Program Expands

Choosing Dairy-Free Alternatives

Dollars and Sense of Eco-Vehicles

June 2017 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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The Center for EcoAgriculture, Aesthetics and Human Development Courses. Workshops. Lectures. Retreats.

At the head of a hidden valley, embraced by forest, in a small farming community on Lake Champlain, lies The Stone Spirit Farm (SSF). With beautiful pastures and hay lands, this retreat has re-established the old time experiences of successful grassland farming and sustainable living.

Women’s Wellness Warriors Retreat with Dr. Kristine Blanche July 21-23, 2017 Learn how to naturally protect your body and live a healthy and happy life.

Lodging and accommodations available. Aid for those in need.

The Learning Collaborative at Stone Spirit Farm 957 Pleasant Valley Road Benson, Vermont 05743

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www.learningcollaborative.net info@learningcollaborative.net eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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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.

C O O P E R A T I V E & WELLNESS CENTER

the co-op:

24 STICKS & STONES FARM

gallery, shop, design studio, art openings, 1st fridays in the depot!, performance events, jewelry from nepal, knitting workshop, essential oils, organic skin care, chinese herbal apothecary

SEEKS STEWARD

Owner Tim Currier Readies Torch for Passing

by Nicole Miale

the wellness center: acupuncture, yoga, tai chi, massage, meditation, organic facials, pilates, chi nei tsang, reflexology, neural reset therapy, medical qi gong, aromatherapy, shamanic healing, biomat, chinese medical massage, sound healing, facial rejuvenation acupuncture, cupping, barre, qi gong, chinese herbal consult

26 BREAK FREE OF CHRONIC PAIN

Natural Ways to Feel Much Better

by Kathleen Barnes

where art meets wellness

SPARK YOUR SPIRIT! valleyspiritcoop.com

6 green hill road washington depot, C T

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860.619.2788

30 WHEN A PAIN IN THE NECK IS MORE THAN A BOTHER

Holistic Approaches Seek the Root Cause of Chronic Pain

by Sheri Hatfield

36 WHY MEDICAL CANNABIS?

Connecticut Offers Options

for Many Situations

by Ariana Rawls Fine

DBT: Dialectical Behavior Therapy Do you want to: Increase joy and happiness and decrease stress?

40 CHRONIC PAIN PROFILES 60

44 OVERCOMING

CHRONIC PAIN

A Guide to Effective Modalities & Local Resources

Create a lifetime of fulfillment by learning how to establish and maintain meaningful relationships, while building mastery and skillfulness in all areas of your life. yoga • meDITaTIon • mInDfulneSS DBT InDIvIDual TheRapy • DBT gRoup TheRapy CognITIve BehavIoRal TheRapy

56 MARIJUANA USE FOR PETS?

CBD Products Offer Safe, Legal Options

by Mary Oquendo

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

60 GREEN CAR BUYING TIPS

Fuel Economy Plus Sales Incentives Equal Big Savings

by Jim Motavalli

1-888-745-3372 5 Sylvan Road South, Westport, CT 06880 fax 203-307-5788 • www.ccbhtherapy.com

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62 MILK MINUS THE MOO

Evaluating Alternatives to Dairy

by Judith Fertig

natural awakenings

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LET US TREAT

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53

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7 newsbriefs 18 healthbriefs 22 globalbriefs 24 communityspotlight 40 chronicpainprofiles 44 chronicpainguide 53 inspiration 54 naturallyhealthypet 55 naturalpet 58 petresourceguide 60 greenliving 62 inspiredtable 64 consciouseating 67 calendar 71 resourceguide 77 classifieds 78 displayadindex

Y U to a free pilates class

Mind-Body Connection Pilates pilatesMBC.com | New Milford, CT | 860.350.3643

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Find out more! (203) 797-0551 Ridley.edu | 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury, CT 06810 For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of the students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.Ridley.edu

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Sheri Hatfield Chris Kalisz Mary Oquendo Sales & Marketing Leslie McLean Nicole Miale Debbie Morgan Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2017 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.

hronic pain. Two simple words that represent a wide spectrum of experience between individuals, but share the intolerable blueprint of suffering. Millions of people in our country suffer from chronic pain or care for someone who does. With that in mind, and utmost empathy, this month’s issue focuses on solutions, remedies and modalities to help heal, resolve and relieve chronic pain.

For much of the past year, for the first time in my life, I had personal experience of chronic pain. There were multiple causes and some are still being resolved, but for Nicole Miale months my movement and experience of daily life were restricted. The pain and resulting lack of mobility affected my weight and mood and put strain on some of my closest relationships. I sent my dog off to hike with someone else, crying as I watched her go because I longed to go with them. I limited the number of times I went up or down stairs each day, planning my “trips” up or down carefully and watching my fluid intake because dashing back up to use the bathroom on short notice just wasn’t feasible.

On my healing journey this past year, I have personally experienced most of the treatments discussed in this issue. Some worked better for me than others, but it was during the exploration that I discovered what did work this time. I am grateful for each opportunity. I learned a lot and today I am nearly pain-free thanks to caring practitioners who provided a variety of therapies and products to support the efforts of my body to heal itself. Healing can be a long road, but that road need not be traveled alone.

There was a day recently when I moved more easily and realized, with some shock, that my body did not hurt. In that moment, I felt immense relief and great joy; I remember it very clearly. It is a reminder to myself to not take freedom of movement for granted. Though we cover less distance than we used to and the terrain is easier, I’m again able to hike with my dog. Every outing, we hike a little further and I feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment with each new uphill step.

If you or a loved one are suffering from chronic pain, please know you have my personal sympathy. Know too that some measure of relief - if not complete pain elimination - is available through the skills and products used by local practitioners implementing a variety of natural healing modalities. Drugs and surgery are rarely the only options to consider. Conventional doctors are well-meaning but often uninformed about effective alternatives and unaware of local resources.

It is my hope you might use the information in this month’s issue to learn about alternative treatments and be inspired.

We all deserve to feel good and joyful! I hope the practitioners, products and modalities discussed in this issue – and others not mentioned but likely as skilled and caring – can support you or your loved one on the journey back to wellness and well-being. I wish you health, healing and PAIN-FREE living.

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 $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

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

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

See our advertiser index on page 78.

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

newsbriefs Dalai Lama’s Story to Be Told in Ridgefield

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n a special world-premiere event at the Ridgefield Playhouse on June 17, Tencho Gyatso, niece of the Dalai Lama, will reveal the Dalai Lama’s life in a stunning visual presentation woven together with her personal and heartfelt narration. The presentation, The Dalai Lama’s Life Story in Music, Words, and Pictures, will be offered at 7:30pm.

Gyatso’s presentation will be accompanied by the moving music of Nawang Khechog, the first Tibetan Tencho Gyatso Grammy Nominee and a renowned Tibetan flutist. His original music, which he intends as a means to inspire non-violence and compassion, fits well with the compassionately lived life of the Dalai Lama.

“The program is specifically designed to celebrate compassion as lived through the life of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama,” Gyatso explains. It outlines the moving journey of the Dalai Lama’s escape from Tibet as a young monk and his journey to fill his role as a world leader and one of the most beloved Nawang Khechog men of our time.

This event is presented by Redding’s Do Ngak Kunphen Ling (DNKL) Tibetan Center for Universal Peace (DNKL.org) to help raise much needed funds to support the compassionate work being done by DNKL, the local communities and other locations around the world.

Gyatso is the director of Tibetan empowerment and Chinese engagement programs for the International Campaign for Tibet, which promotes human rights and democratic freedoms for the Tibetan people. She is also founder of the Tibetan Children’s Village. She moved to the United States in 1999 to join her husband, Losang Gyatso, a contemporary Tibetan artist.

Khechog has won multiple awards in Tibet, India, Nepal and the United States as one of Tibet’s foremost world and spiritual music composers. He was a monk for 11 years and studied Buddhist philosophy and meditation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and many other Tibetan masters.

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For more information and tickets, visit RidgefieldPlayhouse. org/Events/Living-Compassion. To find out about other DNKL events, visit DNKLDharma.org/Classes-Events.html. Event location: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield.

See ad, page 25. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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newsbriefs

Summer at Wooster Camp in Danbury

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Chinese Medicine Practice Debuts in Fairfield

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pencer Greene, an acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, is opening his practice in Fairfield with national board certification and a Connecticut state licensure. Greene’s approach involves integrating various techniques to empower patients with safe, effective and nourishing ways to restore and maintain health in their lives.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques Greene will Spencer Greene employ with his patients include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, gua sha, cupping, nutritional guidance, qigong, yoga and meditation.

His practice will be based out of Black Rock Holistic Center in Fairfield.

For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit WholisticChineseMedicine.com. Location: 825 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

ow entering its 21st year, Summer at Wooster, a summer camp in Fairfield County, is designed to give kids the chance to tap into what makes them happy, challenges them, sparks curiosity, causes fits of giggles, inspires creativity, drives ambition and creates lasting friendships. The 2017 summer session runs for seven weekly sessions June 26 through August 11 for students from preschool (four-year olds) to grade eight ages.

Focused on treating the campers as discoverers and explorers, Summer at Wooster provides a safe and nurturing environment for them to find activities that match their interest. Then, through the “create-your-day” approach, children can explore the unexpected world in ways that ignite their brain, move their bodies and fuel their passions.

The camp also offers extended hours, an optional lunch program and a new low price.

For more information and to register, call 203-830-3921 or visit SummeratWooster.org. Location: Summer at Wooster, a program of Wooster School, 91 Miry Brook Rd, Danbury.

See ad, page 17.

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Soupstock Festival Returns to Shelton

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oupstock Festival’s 2017 music lineup brings together national and local touring acts and exciting newcomers to the stage. The annual event will take place over two days on June 10 and 11 at Veteran’s Park in Shelton. Established in 2010, the Soupstock Festival mixes arts, cuisine and culture with something for everyone. In total 20 musical performers will grace the festival’s two stages this year. The Kid’s Fun Zone has scheduled activities throughout the festival, including children’s yoga classes, hoop workshops and bounce houses.

These complement annual staples such as the Artisan Expo Tent and the 8th Annual Pro/Am Soup Cook-Off as well as the Third annual Chili Cook-Off taking place June 11.

Directors Nicole Heriot-Mikula, Joe Mango and Derek Signore have created a music lineup that includes ska and reggae legends The Skatalites and electrofunk powerhouse Particle.

They co-headline the main stage with newcomers Sophistafunk and American Idol’s Elise Testone. Also returning is favorite Ryan Montbleau with his new ensemble Hey Darlin’, featuring Hayley Jane. Also sharing top billing are local mainstays the Alpaca Gnomes and Bellas Bartok. The full lineup is available at the Soupstock Festival website.

Proceeds will benefit the Mary A. Schmecker Turtle Shell Fund, furthering art, craft and music education for children and young adults.

Major sponsors for this event include Sierra Nevada, 99.1 PLR, The Sound Magazine, Blue Point, Goose Island, Tuttle Insurance, Basement Systems, Tito’s Vodka and Stop and Shop.

For more information, visit SoupstockFestival.org or Facebook.com/SoupstockFestival. For media information and volunteer opportunities, email Media@SoupstockFestival.org. See ad, page 37.

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June 2017

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newsbriefs

Our Thoughts Become Things

Learn how to create the thoughts, to have the life you want!

Empowerment & Inspiration To Create What You Want In Life!

Darlene Alvarez Maddern

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Life Coach, Speaker, Teacher, Mentor QSCA Certified Law of Attraction Coach MA, Sociology

1-860-488-2619 |damaddern@gmail.com www.createwithyourthoughts.com Private Coaching |Group Programs | Workshops | Webinars

Homegrown Plant Medicine & Self Care Products Made With Organic, Local Ingredients Bath Salts | Body Scrub | Skincare Healing Salves | Smudge | Candles Flower Essences Gift Baskets & Kits Available

Heal Yourself Heal Earth

Something for everyone!

Sustainably handcrafted in Easton, CT mindfully & with love.

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

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Elysian Life Design Stay Inspired By The Divine

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We've got all your spiritual and energy needs covered from Spiritual Consulting, Space & Land Clearing, Energy Healing, Herbal & Essential Oil based products & more. Contact us today to see where your path will lead you. www.ElysianLD.com Contact@ElysianLD.com

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Norwalk Festival Spotlights Diversity

rom 5:30 to 10pm on June 15 at the restored 1809 homestead Fodor Farm, Norwalk International Cultural Exchange (NICE) is hosting Destination India to celebrate Indian culture. In keeping with the nonprofit’s mission to promote and increase awareness of the diversity of people from around the world, the event will celebrate various cultural traditions and foods from India. The festive reception will also celebrate the countdown to the second annual NICE Festival, to be held on July 8 at Norwalk’s Oyster Shell Park.

Destination India will be held in the Barn at Fodor Farm which features a demonstration kitchen and a large outdoor patio overlooking the landscape. The evening’s cultural entertainment will include Bhangra dance, Sikh martial arts (Gatka) demonstrations, Indian cooking demonstrations and tastings, henna art and more. Additional support for the event is provided by the City of Norwalk Department of Recreation & Parks, Patel Brothers, J.P. Morgan Chase, Tawa Indian Cuisine, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Foundation Sikh Community of CT, and Trendy Henna.

Tickets are $35 and include food tasting and one drink.

Proceeds and donations from Destination India will go towards supporting the NICE summer festival, a free one-day event open to all ages, and run in collaboration with the City of Norwalk Department of Recreation and Parks and the Norwalk Arts Commission.

More than 5,000 people celebrated the inaugural NICE festival in 2016 with a wide range of cultural foods, music and artistic expression along the shores of Norwalk River.

This year’s festival will be held on July 8 from 11am to 8pm.

Performances will include live bands offering bluegrass, Zydeco, Cuban jazz, Caribbean music and various artistic forms across multiple traditions. There will be an assortment of family-friendly creative activities; food trucks; and education, health and environmental exhibits.

For further information and to purchase ticket for Destination India, visit NorwalkNICE.org/NICE-Festival-Series-2017.

For more information about NICE Festival, visit NorwalkNice.org. Location: Fodor Farm, 328 Flax Hill Rd, Norwalk.

Happiness is not something ready made.

It comes from your own actions. ~Dalai Lama

natural awakenings

New Center Offers Holistic-Focused Occupational Therapy Services

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helton is home to a new, integrative occupational therapy office launched by Jolene Burch, OTR/L, a holistic occupational therapist.

The Alternative Therapy Center for Children, run by Burch’s Integrative TOT, LLC, is comprised of a motor gym, relaxation room, “observation hideout”, multi-sensory environment and small specialty centers within the space.

After working in other outpatient clinics, schools and in clients’ homes, Burch realized the value of taking a holistic approach to helping children with disabilities. Other practitioners in the practice include Kelly Grich, CPMT, CHHC, a holistic health coach and massage therapist; Anita Daigle, CCC-SLP, the lead speech therapist; Nancy Karim, ATR, an art therapist; and Bonnie Gilson, OTR/L, the lead occupational therapist.

All of the center’s occupational therapy treatments and programs meld the sensory integration frame of reference with neurodevelopmental theory. Most of the occupational therapy sessions include reflex integration therapy, depending on the child. When appropriate, a family may consider adding intensives to their therapy sessions to try to address auditory progressing, motor coordination or attention concerns.

Alternative and holistic wellness services offered at the center include art and play therapy, massage and relaxation therapy, and social and parent support groups. Designed by a holistic health coach and occupational therapist, the unique Healing from Within program offers nutritional and selective eating support, screen time and toxin exposure reduction information, and tools to help with self-regulation and healing spaces.

In addition, the center offers playgroups for children up to six-years old and summer camps with a variety of camp themes specifically designed for children with special needs up to age 12.

For more information, call 888-8600-TOT, email Therapy@ IntegrativeTOT.com or visit IntegrativeTot.com. Location: 100 Beard Sawmill Rd, Ste 201 (rear entrance), Shelton.

HaDs-On aT Summer Youth Programs Ages 11-14 Weekly Half- and Full-Day Programs July 10-Aug 25 Have fun Small classes Taught by professional artists Explore creativity Learn a new skill

Programs in Glass Beadmaking, Fiber Arts, Blacksmithing, Fused Glass, Clay and Jewelry.

Scholarships are available

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June 2017

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newsbriefs

Washington Depot Hosts Future Now Expo

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Learn Design Techniques at Workspace Collective

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orkspace Collective in Danbury will be offering several June events including a leather ring workshop on June 8 from 4-6pm and a two-part block printing workshop taking place 6-8pm on June 15 and 22.

Workspace Collective is a unique retail and design co-op dedicated to reinventing the boutique shopping experience by curating a lifestyle shop filled with quality apparel, thoughtfully created accessories and unique home goods, all produced with a sustainable ethos. The fashion and lifestyle products they carry are fair trade, socially driven, upcycled and organic. The local designers also host workshops.

For more information and to register for the workshops, call 203-733-9541 or visit WorkspaceCollective.co. Location: 287 Main St, Danbury.

he Washington Environmental Council will hold its annual Future Now Expo on June 24 from 11am to 3pm. The Future Now Expo is an engaging community event that offers an environment where attendees can speak with exhibitors who have demonstrated a commitment to saving our planet.

This all-day event is free, walk-able and family-friendly. Organizers promise there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Informative lectures and workshops will include: Connecticut’s Changing Ecosystems; Landscaping with Native Plants; Creating a Pollinator Landscape; Passive House Design; Composting 101; and River Alliances of CT. Visitors can enjoy live music

by Two Dollar Hat along with African drumming and Native American flute. Children’s activities include Endangered Species Mask Making, parade of the animals and Storytime. Electric and hybrid cars will be on display throughout the event.

Vendors will include Litchfield Hills Solar; CT-NOFA, Back 40 Farm, Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, Bees Knees Ice Pops, Aruna Chocolates, New Morning Market, Salt of the Earth Spa, Housatonic Valley Association, Steep Rock Association, Kent Falls Brewery and more.

The expo is rain or shine. Check the website for the event schedule and map.

For more information, visit FutureNowExpo.org. Location: Washington Depot Village.

DID YOU REALIZE THAT

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

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

INFLAMMATION?

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

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

Posture Improvement Workshop at Kure Spa

Restore physical and emotional wholeness.

Harness joy, love and inner peace.

Improve interpersonal relationships.

Reconnect with your partner and the world.

Find your purpose and live up to your highest potential.

B

y popular demand, Kure SPA & Wellness Center is once again hosting a presentation of Stand Up For Yourself How Posture Affects Your Life on June 5 from 6:30-8:30pm. The free talk focuses on how posture affects all aspects of your life and what you can do about it.

Dr. Beverley Marr is the co-founder and CEO of PurePosture, Inc., a company that invented an at-home orthopedic device to align the spine and create better posture. With more than 20 years as a practicing chiropractor in Fairfield and New Haven counties, Marr, along with her husband, Dr. Christopher Sova, aim to help those whose posture is less than optimal.

For more information and to register, call 203-857-1500 or visit Kure-Spa. com/Workshop. Location: Kure SPA & Wellness Center, 430 Main Ave (2nd level), Norwalk.

Nurturing You Into Health

oing green took on a new meaning for northeast Connecticut when the New Milford River Trail Greenway became one of the state’s designated greenways. The 13-mile long trail follows both the Housatonic and Still Rivers in Connecticut.

Although only in the preliminary engineering study stages, the goal is to extend the existing New Milford River Trail from Sega Meadows Park to the Brookfield town line in order to connect the Housatonic Riverbelt Greenway and the Still River Greenway.

For more information, visit NMBikeWalk.org.

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June 2017

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newsbriefs Empowering Women Through Integrative Wellness

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n June 20th at 6:30pm, the monthly chapter meeting of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) in Fairfield County will feature a team of expert panelists from different healthcare professions who will discuss ways to achieve restorative health.

Are you ready to restore your mind, body and spirit? Have you been wanting to remove obstacles to healing? What does it take? What should one look for in a healing provider? Beginning on a journey to healing is often not an easy undertaking and doing it alone can be difficult. Today, more than ever, integrative wellness of mind, body and spirit is vital. The panelists will discuss these questions and more.

Come to Pequot Library in Southport to meet the panelists: Carrie Brady, JD, MA; Mara Davidson, ND, MS, MBA; Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, RN; and Dr. Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC. After the panel discussion, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions of each panelist, followed by attending a breakout session of choice.

There is a $10 registration fee for members and guests.

Walk-ins are welcome.

NAPW is the largest networking organization in the country, with more than 850,000 women. The organization provides an interactive networking forum for aspiring entrepreneurs and executives to connect with other like-minded professionals.

For more information, call 347-437-0270, email JCCavanaugh@BoardroomGolf.com or visit NAPW.com/Chapters/Fairfield-County-Chapter.

Location: Pequot Library, 720 Pequot Ave, Southport.

Training in Soul Level Healing in Newtown

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ilis Philpott of Soul Healing Journey, LLC will facilitate training in 13th Octave LaHoChi from June 23-25 in Newtown. 13th Octave LaHoChi is an ancient hands-on healing modality that conducts life/God force and infuses the individual with wholeness, balance and well-being.

“La” means light and love of God. “Ho” means movement while “chi” refers to life force. The 13th Octave is a process of conscious union within the heart of Eilis Philpott God. When LaHoChi is joined with the energies of the 13th Octave, the squaring effect is comparable to a nuclear reaction. The result is accelerated healing, a calm mind and stimulation of spiritual awareness. 13th Octave LaHoChi is also used to accelerate personal growth, to reawaken a sense of joy and to increase an awareness of intuition.

This training will include a combination of lecture, hands-on experiential instruction and discussion. Through three hands-on healing sessions, students will learn to how to be a conduit of the 13th Octave LaHoChi healing energies to relieve physical, mental, emotional and spiritual pain and blockages. There will be energy downloads through meditation and initiations. Upon completion, all are fully prepared and receive certificates to practice 13th Octave LaHoChi.

The knowledge and power of the LaHoChi was hidden following the fall of Atlantis and now is resurrected by Lau Tzu, St. Germaine of the Violet Flame, Universal Mother Mary, Archangel Raphael and Albert Einstein and many other ascended masters. Because initiation into the 13th Octave is so transformative, there is no need for previous training in Reiki or other healing modalities.

The workshop will take place June 23 from 7-10pm, and June 24 and 25 from 10am-5pm. The cost is $350 per person, which includes all materials. A deposit of $100 is required to register.

For more information, call 203-767-5954, email Eilis@ SoulHealingJourney.com or visit SoulHealingJourney.com.

Location: Inspired Soul Studio (private yoga barn), 11 Tory Ln, Newtown.

Come Join Us! NICE PEOPLE GREAT MUSIC UPLIFITING EXPERIENCE INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES

3 Main St, 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Rev. Shawn Moninger, Minister

Pride Open Mic Night - June 17th at 7 pm See all events in the calendar listings

natural awakenings

Medium Releases New Resources Ancient Crystal Skull Synergy to Build Personal Power Returns to Connecticut

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dd a new dimension to your life with Melanie Barnum’s new book, Llewellyn’s Little Book of Psychic Development. Based on the premise that every person possesses psychic talent waiting to be explored and expanded, and that growing intuition requires only openness and curiosity, the 192page book guides readers in developing their own innate intuition.

Doing so will help them make appropriate decisions, expel negative energy and recognize or develop various psychic abilities. The book includes handson exercises in meditation, spiritual practices, journaling prompts, and real-life stories from Barnum and her clientele.

Barnum has developed another new resource to aid in the effort to build personal power through psychic messages and better understanding of life’s events: the Psychic Symbols Oracle Cards. Barnum says guides, angels and loved ones on the other side want to connect to us and symbols are the easiest way for spirit to send their messages. This deck of 44 oracle cards will help facilitate the conversation. These intuitive cards were designed to be used on their own or as a companion to Melanie Barnum’s The Book of Psychic Symbols, previously published

by Llewellyn Worldwide. Bright and easy to read, with explanations for each symbol on every card, this deck is meant to help everyone, regardless of metaphysical experience level or age.

Barnum (MelanieBarnum.com) is a Bethel-based psychic medium, intuitive counselor, life coach and hypnotist who has been practicing professionally for more than 15 years.

She was a VIP Reader at Psych Out, a gathering of the nation’s foremost psychics, organized by Court TV. Barnum is also an Angelspeake Facilitator, a member of the National Guild of Hypnotists and the International Association of Counselors and Therapists.

For more information on the products, visit MelanieBarnum.com.

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herry Whitfield, caretaker and guardian of Synergy the ancient crystal skull, will be offering private sessions and workshops June 19-25 in Newtown, New Milford, Ridgefield and Danbury. Whitfield has conducted about 16,000 sessions with Synergy over the last 15 years in locations around Sherry Whitfield the world. and Synergy Whitfield and Synergy will be special guests of Deana Paqua for a solstice drum and healing circle on June 20 at 7pm at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center in Ridgefield. The cost is $40 and registration is required.

Whitfield and Synergy will also be offering workshops entitled History, Stories and Healing. The first will be in New Milford at Twin Star Herbal Education on June 21. The second will tak place at Healing White Light in Newtown on June 22.

Both workshops start at 7pm and cost $40 per person.

On June 24 from 10am-5pm, there will be a full-day workshop through the Institute of Holistic Health Studies at WCSU in Danbury on Crystal Skulls, Spirit Guides and Angels. The cost is $175 with a $25 discount for those also booking a private session at one of the locations.

Private sessions with Whitfield and Synergy are healing sessions that work on physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels. Sessions may include shamanistic practices, energy work, working with totem animals, card reading, polarity balancing, past-life readings and more. The sessions, which do include being able to touch Synergy, are approximately 30 minutes in length for a fee of $90. Sessions are available in New Milford and Newtown locations.

Sherry Whitfield is known for her clairvoyance and healing abilities and has more than 40 years experience and training with alternative healing work in various modalities.

For registration and more information, contact Deana Paqua with Embody the Sacred at EmbodytheSacred.net.

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June 2017

15

Healing & Stress Reduction Hilda M. Swaby

Usui & Karuna Reiki Master Healer

John of God Crystal Bed Healing ◊ Promote mind, body, and spiritual healing ◊ Stimulate development of inner senses for spiritual awareness ◊ Balance the chakras and subtle bodies and heal the psyche ◊ Rebalance frequencies in the body’s electromagnetic fields

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DISCOVER A NEW YOU Contact Jeanne@jeannestreet.com

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(203)788-9338 346 Main St Woodbury, CT 06798

• Healing Sessions • Intuitive Art Classes • Energy & Sound Healing Massage • Medium Readings • Workshops • Boutique • Nutritional Guidance • Spiritual Counseling • Health & Wellbeing Lectures

Take Your Business to the Next Level Create the vision and success for yourself and/or your team with the guidance and support of a professional business coach.

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203-561-8535 www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

Business Coaching For Pinnacle Success 16

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

kudos Fairfield Physician Awarded Scholarship for Study in China

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ristine DeMarco, DC, MS, is the 2017 recipient of the University of Bridgeport Acupuncture Institute China Scholarship Award for her research Kristine DeMarco paper, “Acupuncture in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis”. The scholarship is a two-week trip, which will allow Dr. DeMarco to attend the Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine this July in Shenyang, China. While there, she will be taking classes as well as doing clinical rounds in Liaoning Hospital, Shenyang, China.

DeMarco’s passion in this topic developed after meeting many patients who presented with plantar fasciitis but experienced little relief with traditional treatments. She hopes to develop a new technique of treating plantar fasciitis in order to begin a pilot study in the U.S. with her patients.

DeMarco has been in private practice for 17 years at Black Rock Holistic Center in Fairfield and integrates chiropractic, nutrition and acupuncture services to treat musculoskeletal disorders. She is also certified in Cox flexion distraction, Graston technique, applied kinesiology and acupuncture.

Her specialty is spinal decompression in the treatment of the spine for patients who suffer with nerve compression due to disc bulges. She works with local orthopedic groups to find final solutions to pain when conservative, conventional care does not resolve the issue.

For more information, call 203-333-6544. Location: Black Rock Holistic Health Center, 825 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield.

ecotip Melinda Fawver/Shutterstock.com

Itchy Ivy

Tips to Avoid and Treat Poison Ivy Rash Avoiding even slight contact with poisonous vines that secrete toxic oil goes far in preempting nasty blistering, skin pain and itching. If contact occurs, natural remedies can help prevent and diminish symptoms.

Recognition helps. In the North and West, it’s usually a shrub; in the East, Midwest and South, a vine. Watch out for a cluster of three leaves; the color changes seasonally.

For outdoor walks or hikes, maximize skin protection by wearing long-sleeved shirts, hats, rubber gloves, socks and closed-toe shoes. Also thoroughly rinse skin that may have come into contact with poison ivy in lukewarm soapy water using a washcloth or hand towel for friction as soon as possible to remove the damaging oil (video at Tinyurl.com/Wash-Off-Poison-Ivy).

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n Stay watchful; a rash sometimes doesn’t appear for 12 to 72 hours after contact (AAD.org). n If a rash develops, soak in cool water baths containing an oatmeal-based product like Aveena or oatmeal soap. n Lavender, peppermint, tea tree, Roman chamomile, myrrh, eucalyptus and cypress essential oils all offer anti-inflammatory and other soothing properties (recipes at NewHealthAdvisor.com/Essential-Oils-for-Poison-Ivy.html) n Natural treatments found at DrAxe.com include applying apple cider vinegar or brewed and chilled black tea; their tannins and other compounds lower inflammatory reactions. n To reduce itching, GlobalHealingCenter.com suggests baking soda baths and pastes. Ditch the Itch Cream has natural ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, oat extract, tea tree and neem oils that can provide temporary relief, according to Eartheasy.com. Applying cool paper towels may be helpful; also try witch hazel. Over-the-counter cortisone cream or even calamine lotion is a last resort. n Avoid scratching as an infection may develop through opening a blister. If breathing or swallowing worsens, eyes swell or a rash develops in or near the mouth, head to an emergency room or urgent care center. eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

17

healthbriefs

Why Lyme Disease Ticks Thrive in the North

Nataliia K/Shutterstock.com

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

esearchers from the University of Rhode Island, in Kingston, have studied the rapid increase in Lyme disease in the northern U.S. Only 11 cases of the disease, which annually impacts about 300,000 Americans, were reported in 2015 in Alabama, a state of approximately 5 million residents. Meanwhile, there were 491 confirmed cases in Vermont, with a population of less than 700,000.

The researchers studied the life cycle, metabolism and behavior of black-legged ticks, collecting larvae from several eastern areas. They discovered that ticks live longer in cooler temperatures with higher levels of humidity, making northeastern climates ideal, because longer lives mean increased chance of contact. Southern ticks stay hidden underfoot in layers of leaves to stay cool and damp, making them less likely to find a human host than their northern counterparts, which reside on leaves and trees.

“There has been a lot of research aimed at finding out what makes blacklegged ticks more efficient hosts for Lyme disease in the north than in the south,” explains Roger LeBrun, an entomology professor at the University of Rhode Island and co-author of the study. “People have looked at everything from the effects of temperature on tick life cycles to the types of animals the ticks feed on. Probably all of these factors play roles, but our results suggest that evolutionary pressure to conserve moisture by staying under the leaf litter surface is a critical factor.”

Healthy Eating Can Improve Bone Density in Women

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he importance of calcium for bone health in women is widely known. Now a new study suggests that a diet of foods considered low-inflammatory, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, may help reduce bone loss and fracture risk. Researchers from Ohio State University calculated the dietary inflammatory index (DII) of 160,191 participants using data from the Women’s Health Initiative clinical trials’ baseline food frequency questionnaires.

Comparative DII data were then recorded three and six years later among 10,290 study participants to determine any changes in their individual scores.

Results were also compared with the number of hip fractures reported annually for the subjects, along with bone mineral density levels from the subgroup. Women with lower DII scores had less bone loss in their hips after six years.

Call (203) 856-1421 or visit

www.AlbaThermalImaging.com 18

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

The most important thing in the world is family and love. ~John Wooden natural awakenings

Cox Technic Offers Relief for Common Back Pain

ain in the low back, neck, legs and arms can be debilitating. When the cause is nerve compression due to protrusion or extrusion from spinal discs, the Cox Technic is one treatment modality than can work well. The technique has the ability to decompress the disc off the nerve and create relief, particularly for these four areas of pain.

The management of a disc protrusion is best achieved by using acupuncture, nutrition, Cox flexion distraction technique and core stabilization exercises. Although relief can be achieved, it is imperative to also manage activity levels. If we have a disc protrusion and go run a marathon, or even just run, we may aggravate the areas again. It is important to learn proper types of exercises, such as core stabilization exercises. For more complicated disc extrusions, patients are referred to orthopedics for spinal injections or other types of management.

Cox Technic, also known as flexion-distraction (FD), is a non-surgical, gentle, hands-on chiropractic spinal adjusting manipulation for decompressing spinal nerves and treating spine pain. Chiropractors use a special table for this technique that allows them to reduce the intradiscal pressure (less herniation), increase the intervertebral disc height (vacuum affect to pull the disc back in) and increase the intervertebral foramen size (area where the nerve exits) for a herniated disc.

The flexion distraction table has the capability to drop intradiscal pressure to -192 mmHG. In this way, Cox technic realigns and restores range of motion inherent to the spine while reducing patients’ low back pain—especially with radiculopathy, the sharp shooting or tingling pain into an area of the leg. Cox Technic is one of the leading conservative treatments for disc herniation and spinal stenosis.

The European Spine Journal published results of the U.S. Health Resources and Service Administration-funded comparison study between chiropractic care (flexion-distraction, FD) and medical care (active physical exercise) for low back pain. It found that, “patients with radiculopathy did significantly better with FD.” Subjects randomly allocated to the FD group had significantly greater relief from pain than those in the exercise program, and that, “overall, FD provided more pain relief than active exercise.”

Studies have shown that 13 of 18 low back patients felt greater positive effect of flexion distraction over a placebo (Hawk, JMPT, 1999), and chiropractic participants required significantly fewer healthcare visits than those who received physical therapy over the course of a year.(Cambron et al, Osteopathy & Chiropractic, 2006).

Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com

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CALIFORNIA WINS CANCER LABEL CASE AGAINST MONSANTO’S ROUNDUP

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Fresno County Superior Court Judge Kristi Kapetan has ruled that the state of California will require Monsanto to place a cancer warning label on the company’s Roundup weed killer. The ruling is the first of its kind in the U.S. and comes after a branch of the World Health Organization labeled the product’s primary ingredient, glyphosate, as a “probable human carcinogen.”

Glyphosate, an odorless and tasteless toxin, has been manufactured by Monsanto for more than 40 years and sold in more than 160 countries. Monsanto will have one year to affix the warning label to all relevant products.

Dr. Kristine DeMarco is the owner and founder of Black Rock Holistic Health Center, located in Fairfield. Connect at 203-333-6544 or DeMarcoChiropractic.com.

Transform your life —The Mind: your most powerful tool.

Your subconscious mind has the answers to recognize and achieve what you want and need. NJsĶ ǼÞŸŘǣÌÞƼǣʳʳʳɠÌ Ǽ _Ÿ Ý _Ÿ ŘŸɠʷ ɟsÞ¶ÌǼ ĶŸǣǣʳʳʳOĶÞsŘǼǣ ĶŸǣs ɠsÞ¶ÌǼ s ǣÞĶɴʳ ǢǼNjsǣǣ Ŏ Ř ¶sŎsŘǼʳʳʳÞŘ OŸŘǼNjŸĶʰ O ĶŎʳ rŎŸǼÞŸŘ Ķ ǼNj ȖŎ ʳʳʳNjsĶs ǣÞض ǼÌs s¯¯sOǼǣ Ÿ¯ ǼNj ȖŎ ʳ EȖǣsʳʳʳNjsOŸ¶ŘÞʊsʰ ǣǼŸƼʰ ¶Ÿ ¯ŸNjɠ Nj_ʳ ƻ ÞŘ OŸŘǼNjŸĶʳʳʳƼÌɴǣÞO Ķʰ sŎŸǼÞŸŘ Ķʰ OÌNjŸŘÞOʰ OȖǼsʳ Ës ĶÞض ŎsŎŸNjÞsǣʳʳʳĶsǼǼÞض ¶Ÿʳ

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NsNjǼÞ¯Þs_ NJs¶ÞǣǼsNjs_ NŸŘǣȖĶǼÞض ËɴƼŘŸǼÞǣǼ NsNjǼÞ¯Þs_ ƻNjŸ¯sǣǣÞŸŘ Ķ NŸ OÌ NsNjǼÞ¯Þs_ NJsĶ ǼÞŸŘǣÌÞƼ NŸ OÌ NsNjǼÞ¯Þs_ DsNjs ɚsŎsŘǼ NŸ OÌ r®ǻ ƻNj OǼÞǼÞŸŘsNj ● NJsÞĨÞ ƻNj OǼÞǼÞŸŘsNj ōsŘǼ Ķ ®ÞǼŘsǣǣ NŸ OÌ Veterans’ Stress Project Coach

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Call today for a FREE consultation 203.451.3383 Redding CT. ● universalintelligence.info ● support@universalintelligence.info eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

19

yogabriefs Start the Summer with Yoga and Movement

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oga for Everybody, an independently owned and operated Kripalu-affiliated studio located in downtown Fairfield, is offering multiple workshops in the month of June.

Conscious Sleep and Essential Oils: The Path to Better Sleep with Ingrid Prueher will be the first event of the month on June 4 at 2pm. In this two-hour workshop, you will combine a blend of certified therapeutic grade essential oils, yoga nidra and gong while learning why sleep is so important and how to get more of it. Yoga nidra, also known as yogic sleep, allows you to get into three of the five sleep phases, all while being awake via sleep guided meditation. You will spend part of the session in shavasana, or corpse pose, with eyes closed;

you will use essential oils to heighten your experience. The fee is $35 if paid

by May 28, or $45 thereafter.

On June 10 at 4pm, Relax & Renew: A Restorative Practice with Thai Bodywork, Reiki, and Aromatherapy will be presented by Jeanine Oburchay.

The two-hour restorative practice will include Oburchay’s Thai bodywork during your poses, as well as Reiki energy healing and aromatherapy. Using breathing techniques and guided visualization, the body is supported by blankets, blocks, bolsters and straps in a series of postures intended to allow deep relaxation. If paid by June 3, the fee is $35, or $45 thereafter.

On June 23, Journey Dance – Blissful Movement with Joanne Keane will be held from 6:30 to 8pm. You will be guided through a series of organic movements to clear away stuck energy and let your own energy flow through you freely. It will be followed by a shamanic meditation and chakra clearing.

No dancing experience necessary. The workshop is $25 if paid by June 16, or $35 thereafter.

Another workshop this month is the Mindful Yoga for Teen Anxiety Training Workshop with Cynthia Beers on June 24 from 1-6pm. This training focuses on a six-week program that gives practitioners tools necessary to teach teens resilience in moments of anxiety, depression, panic attacks and high-functioning autism. The early-bird price of $100 is good through June 17, and then $125 thereafter.

Chanting specific mantras or sounds is one of the most potent and healing of all meditation techniques, and one of the most accessible. The June 24 (4:30-5:30pm) sound meditation workshop, Summer Meditation – BIJA Mantra with Deborah Swann, will guide you in chanting the Bija Mantras. Chanting the ancient Sanskrit sounds creates a harmonic resonance in the body and mind, awakening inner energy.

For more information and to register, call 203-254-YOGA (9642), email Info@Yoga4everybody.net or visit Yoga4everybody.net. Location: 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield.

Jamaican Yoga Retreat

All Inclusive from $650 & Up!

July 15-21, 2017

www.jiivacenter.com 20

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

coverartist

EMERGING PRACTITIONERS’ SHOWCASE A special section for practitioners just launching their practice or recently relocated to the area.

IntegratIve HolIstIc nursIng

Serenity

Specializing in Cancer and Chronic Pain Personalized Healing Energy Sessions

Jeanette French The creative path forged by Jeanette French straddles the worlds of photography and fine art, converging into imagery that captures a moment, tells an unspoken story or celebrates the wonders of nature. As a child, French was encouraged to draw, paint and handcraft by her mother, who painted, and she received her first camera from her father when she was 8.

A lifelong student of her two chosen mediums, French honed her eye and realistic technique with teachers in the Pacific Northwest, near her home base in Gresham, Oregon. “It is with awe and wonder that I witness the images arise beneath my brushes or through my lens,” she says.

French recalls the idyllic scene shared in Serenity: “I was with a friend when we came upon this lovely place, and we sat in those chairs for some time, drinking in the splendor. It is such a precious privilege to midwife these manifestations of beauty, joy, love and hope for the Earth—it is my lifelong passion and purpose.”

View the artist’s portfolio at Jeanette-French.ArtistWebsites.com.

Aromatherapy • Essential Oils • Crystals Guided Meditation Sound, Light & Color Therapy Breathing Techniques • Music Therapy Nutritional Recommendations Lifestyle Modifications Promoting peace, love, & healing for mind, body & spirit.

Providing personal growth and expression through music education, mentoring and energy healing.

Kerry Hardy rn, hnb-bc, rmt, cch Call 203-895-5134

Suzanne Vick 203-605-6587 soulsongCT.com

to schedule your session in-home, by phone, or skype.

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Naturopathic Physician & Licensed Acupuncturist Holistic, Natural Medicine for Health and Wellbeing Botanicals, Nutrition, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Lab testing & more

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To find out if you might qualify to be a part of the showcase section, call or email today!

203-885-4674 FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

21

globalbriefs

Prohibiting Plastic

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

Gajus/Shutterstock.com

Banning Bags Is Making a Difference

Pesticide Peril gary powell/Shutterstock.com

Common Agrichemicals Endanger Hundreds of Species Under the Obama administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found in its first rigorous nationwide analysis of the effects of pesticides on endangered species, that 97 percent of the 1,800-plus animals and plants protected under the Endangered Species Act are likely to be harmed by malathion and chlorpyrifos, two commonly used pesticides; another 78 percent are likely to be hurt by another, diazinon. But now the new EPA administration under President Trump has declined to ban chloripyrifos; the decision may be challenged in court.

All three pesticides are organophosphates widely used on crops such as corn, watermelon and wheat. Last year, the World Health Organization announced that malathion and diazinon are probable carcinogens. Based on the EPA’s conclusions, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service will issue biological opinions to identify mitigation measures and changes to pesticide use to ensure that targeted products will no longer potentially harm any endangered species. As part of a legal settlement with the Center for Biological Diversity, the biological opinions are due by December.

If people sat outside and looked at the stars each night, I’ll bet they’d live a lot differently. ~Bill Watterson

Governments worldwide are taking control of a pollution problem with bans on different forms of plastic, including shopping bags. The Indian state of Karnataka has completely banned the use of plastic. No wholesale dealer, retailer or trader can now use or sell plastic carrier bags, plates, cups, spoons, cling film or even microbeads.

San Francisco became the first U.S. city to ban plastic shopping bags in 2007, and in 2014 it banned plastic water bottles on city properties. Since then, they have included Styrofoam and thermocol (polystyrene). Hawaii introduced a ban on single-use plastic bags in 2015.

Coles Bay, Tasmania, was the first town in Australia to ban disposable plastic bags in 2003, using 350,000 fewer than in 2002. Ethiopia, France and Morocco have followed suit. It’s all part of a global movement to protect the life of oceans and other bodies of water.

Take the Greenpeace Plastic Pledge at Tinyurl.com/TakeThePlasticPledge.

Hunter Healing Hands

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Quality Holistic Healing Education that is Personal, Professional, and Passionate!

Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses

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Drum & Rattle Making Sessions

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Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Mediumship, Melody Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki, Shamanic Spiritual Counseling

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203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 22

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

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

203-664-1554 www.westbrooknatureschool.org

Autonomous Autos

Driverless Cars Promise Safety and Savings Hyundai demonstrated its Ioniq autonomous, or driverless, hybrid car concept at the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show, demonstrating that such vehicles— equipped with sophisticated sensors, GPS and computers—could be for sale within five to seven years.

Safety is paramount. Estimates for the U.S., based on a 2013 Eco Center for Transportation study, projected that if 90 percent of vehicles were autonomous, the number of driving-related deaths would plummet from an annual 32,400 to approximately 11,300.

“Drivers are excited that driverless cars will offer 90 percent fewer U.S. traffic accidents, 40 percent lower insurance costs, the end of drunk driving accidents and newfound freedom for seniors and people with disabilities,” says Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association. Its 2016 report Self-Driving Vehicles: Consumer Sentiments found that nearly 75 percent of consumers surveyed like the proffered benefits.

In Driverless, authors Hod Lipson and Melba Kurman highlight significant ecological benefits, including McKinsey research findings that driverless cars will yield up to 20 percent fuel savings, and a corresponding reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Their smoother driving also extends a vehicle’s life.

Ford intends to deliver a fully autonomous vehicle for ride sharing in 2021, according to Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company president and CEO. Companies such as Uber and Lyft already are testing driverless vehicles in pilot cities.

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communityspotlight

Sticks & Stones Farm Seeks Steward

Owner Tim Currier Readies Torch for Passing

by Nicole Miale

T

im Currier began as a stone mason by trade, but during the 41 years he’s been the driving force behind Newtown’s educational retreat Sticks & Stones Farm, he has added a lot of job titles to his resume. They include road builder, riverkeeper, log home architect, moss farmer, organic farmer, labyrinth builder, camp leader and landlord, among others. Mostly, he’s been the steward of the 60 acres of trees and rock that dominate the hilly terrain he and his family have called home.

“What I have learned during this time is that it’s absolutely possible to live and run a sustainable place like this without raping the land,” Currier reflects. “You can tell a lot has been done

here but it doesn’t look like the land has been worked. That is by design.”

A working preserve currently home to homeschool programs as well as wilderness camps and high-end camping experiences in rustic cabins, Sticks & Stones has been Currier’s mission and labor of love for decades. But each year the farm is worked for six months and then given “six months to rest,” Currier explains. When the Newtown farm rests, Currier spends his time on a remote property in Hawaii. Over time, the lure of the community he’s forming on the Hawaiian islands grows stronger; now Currier sees his primary job as the finding of a successor to act as steward for the moss mountain.

“I really would just like this place

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

to keep going and I am convinced it can continue to be self-sustaining,” he says. “And the reality is, if you want a place like this today, this one is it. This just wouldn’t be possible to create now.

There are too many rules against things now. When we were doing things over the years, there were no rules against them so we could create what we wanted and explain it later on. It’s a lot harder to do that today.”

Currier says his vision for the property always included camps of various kinds. As long ago as 1973, he brought in busloads of children from Bridgeport so they could experience nature. These days, regular camps are run by Two Coyotes Wilderness School, which rents space for its innovative year-round kids’ programs. Adult visitors are welcome to rent the two houseboats, five cabins and tent camping platforms for short or long-term stays via reservations on Airbnb and HipCamp. Two other homes on the property are long-term rentals, while the main farm building, called the stone barn, is the hub for the many diverse activities. The buildings are complete, Currier says, but they need maintenance and someone to oversee the next phase of the farm’s evolution.

“The plate has been created,” he explains. “We’re inviting people to come and fill it according to their vision for the property.”

He’s hoping that by 2018 the farm will have a new steward to steer it into the future, with Currier continuing to be involved as co-owner or advisor. “I’m really open to how it looks in terms of the agreement and set-up of an arrangement,” he says. “I just know I’m meant to spend more time in Hawaii and less here. That means finding someone to be responsible for what is here, to make sure it continues.”

In addition to the structures and property itself, Currier says the almost 10-acre moss garden developed over the past 20 years is just waiting for someone to tend and restore it to its previous place as one of the foremost moss farms in the country. The moss has been sold over the years in two ways: in blocks of sod and on stone, known as “living stone”.

“Everything leads to the other,” Currier muses. “I initially became interested in moss because I was carbon-

dating stone walls and became curious about what was growing on the stones.

Then, years later, the moss became the reason I was able to sell the stone, because it was living stone… the rock was just the delivery mechanism for the moss. Everything that was ever sold from here came back somehow.”

“If you want a place like this today, this one is it.

This just wouldn’t be possible to create now.”

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future,” he says. “This property will give someone a great opportunity to carry on the work that has been started and continue to give children and adults the chance to be in nature.”

Nicole Miale is publisher of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT. Connect with her at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.

For more information about the opportunity with Sticks and Stones Farm, call Tim Currier at 808-640-5540. For general information about the farm, visit SticksAndStones.com. The farm is located at 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. See ad, page 17. eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

25

the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A majority of Americans feel pain on a daily basis.

Break Free of

Such statistics expose the magnitude of the problem of chronic pain. “It’s daunting, but there are many natural ways to address it that are inexpensive, effective and with what I call side benefits rather than negative side effects,” says Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, of Kona, Hawaii, author of the smartphone app Cures A-Z. Complementary, integrative or functional medicine, all names for a holistic approach to health care, offer a comforting wealth of gentle ways to address chronic pain, most of which the vast majority of conventional medical doctors are unaware, says Daniel Cherkin, Ph.D., senior investigator emeritus with the Group Health Research Institute, at the University of Washington, in Seattle.

“Effective natural treatments include

CHRONIC PAIN

Natural Ways to Feel Much Better

by Kathleen Barnes

A

ccording to the National Center for Health Statistics, 25 percent of Americans, or 76.2 million, are suffering from pain that lasts more than 24 hours at this very moment: Ouch!

Lower back pain alone keeps Americans from going to work a total of 149 million days each year, costing the U.S. economy $100 to $200 billion, reports the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Other common types of chronic pain affect musculoskeletal tissues, knees, hips or the neck. Migraines and severe headaches plague 16.6 percent of adults over 18, per a National Health and Nutrition Survey. Neurological discomfort can reach as high as 12.4 percent, estimates a study from the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota. Even visceral or organ pain associated with heart disease, cancer and pelvic diseases occur in at least 20 percent of the global population, according to the International Association for the

26

Study of Pain, in Seattle.

If chronic pain is affecting you, you feel it and want relief—right now.

Watch Out for Opioids

Unfortunately, conventional medicine often has little to offer most pain patients. Even for something as pervasive as back pain, surgery and steroid injections are usually an unsatisfactory first line of defense, having mixed results at best, seconded by prescriptions for addictive opioid painkillers.

Dr. Nora D. Vokov, director of the National Institute of Drug Abuse, told the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control in 2014 that there were an estimated 2.1 million people in the U.S. suffering from substance abuse disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers in 2012. The problem is worsening. Every day, 1,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for misusing prescription opioids, according to

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

yoga, acupuncture, chiropractic, meditation, lifestyle changes and exercise,” notes Cherkin. “But since they’re not in most doctors’ medical training or learned repertoire for pain relief, patients aren’t offered the opportunity to try them.”

What Helps Relieve Pain

Here are just some of the many natural and affordable forms of pain relief.

Try the Yass method: Mitchell Yass,

PhD, of St. John’s, Florida, author of The Pain Cure Rx, is busting the myth that musculoskeletal pain is often caused by osteoarthritis. “Arthritis or joint deterioration is rarely the cause of joint pain,” says Yass. He points out that 90 percent of people over 60 have herniated discs, but no associated pain.

Yass treats patients based on his observation that in up to 98 percent of the cases he sees, weak muscles are the underlying cause of joint pain, and strengthening them provides relief. He

sebos/Shutterstock.com

Go Natural for Effective Relief

Address underlying trauma: Osteopath Maud Nerman, of Novato, California, author of Healing Pain and Injury, has broad experience in treating neurological problems and brain injuries and often focuses on physical and emotional trauma as an underlying cause of chronic pain.

She explains that the autonomic nervous system that directs unconscious body functions like breathing, digestion and heartbeat is interrupted by such trauma.

“Trauma literally shocks the nervous system,” she says. “The body cannot turn off the ‘fight-or-flight’ reaction, causing a firestorm of inflammation that can lead to a variety of serious diseases, overwhelming the body’s ability to manage its own healing.” Her work has showed how readjusting the body, restoring breathing and reactivating the autonomic nervous system can provide relief in short order.

Consider lifestyle, diet and supplements: “Pain is like the ‘check oil’ light

replenish energy and heal muscles.

on a car’s dashboard. It signals that something needs attention,” says Teitelbaum, author of Pain Free 1-2-3. “If the oil light goes on, putting a Band-Aid over it or smashing it with a hammer won’t help.”

Teitelbaum recommends an energy optimization approach he dubs SHINE that addresses underlying causes of chronic pain that has worked for 91 percent of the people he’s treated for fibromyalgia and muscle pain.

Sleep—Eight to nine hours a night helps

ances even if lab tests are “normal”.

Hormones—Treat hormone imbalImmunity—Dysfunctional immune

systems and persistent infections can lead to chronic pain.

Nutrition—In Teitelbaum’s studies, op-

timizing nutritional support, especially B vitamins, vitamin D, ribose, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and magnesium, was helpful. A healthy, high protein, low sugar diet is effectively complemented by a variety of herbs and nutrients, primarily curcumin, boswellia, willow bark and fish oil, nutrients that widespread studies show stop pain better than pharmaceuticals. He’s also a strong proponent of

Yogic Breathing Brings Relief

A

n ancient yogic breathing practice, or pranayama, is used to rebalance the autonomic nervous system.

Dr. Maud Nerman strongly recommends alternate nostril breathing for those that experience chronic pain caused by physical or emotional trauma.

ZephyrMedia/Shutterstock.com

says his prescribed exercises are usually effective in days or a few weeks.

“Pain is an indication of tissue in distress. For example, pain in the shoulder area is often an impingement of the bicep,” he says. His prescription is strengthening exercises using hand weights for the trapezoid, tricep and serratus anterior muscles. His book suggests a detailed self-diagnosis program and the necessary exercises to strengthen muscles and relieve joint pain (more at Tinyurl.com/YassIntroInfo).

Here’s a basic practice: n After folding the middle two fingers of the right hand down, press the right nostril closed. n Inhale to the count of four. n Hold both nostrils closed for a count of eight. n Release the right nostril and exhale to a count of eight. n Repeat on the other side. n Continue for at least three minutes, alternating sides throughout.

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eliminating sugar entirely because it causes inflammation.

Exercise—Daily exercise speeds the healing process and after 10 weeks following the first four SHINE steps, will increase the capacity to exercise.

For migraines, Teitelbaum advocates vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Numerous studies support the effectiveness of dosages of 400 milligrams per day to prevent migraines. After just six weeks of use, a German study published in the European Journal of Neurology shows thats taking a daily riboflavin supplement cut the number of migraine days in half for participants and significantly reduced the amount of migraine medication needed.

Tap for Relief: Also known as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Tapping Solutions founder Nick Ortner, of Newtown, Connecticut, says “Tapping

sends a calming signal to the amygdala in the brain, turning off the fight or flight stress response and allowing the body to heal.” The physical tapping opens up the body’s energy meridians and allows them to relax so the natural healing process can take place, Ortner explains.

EFT combines tapping on specific body points while repeating appropriate affirmative statements such as: “Even though I have this [pain], I love, accept and forgive myself.”

He recalls a woman that arrived at a seminar he led with a toothache that had lasted for years. Doctors had done X-rays, seen an infection and prescribed antibiotics to no good effect. He asked her if she recalled when the pain began; without hesitation, she answered, “When my mother passed away unexpectedly.”

“So we started working together and the pain reduced significantly right away and eventually disappeared completely,”

How to Tap Away Pain

T

apping, or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), soothes the body by turning off the “fight or flight” stress response that can cause inflammation and worsen pain, according to Tapping Solutions founder Nick Ortner, of Newtown, Connecticut. Here’s how to do it:

1 2 3

Identify the problem (e.g., pain in back of neck).

Rate the intensity of feelings about the problem on a scale of one to 10.

Compose a statement about it (e.g., “Even though I have intense neck pain today, I deeply and completely accept myself”).

4

Using one or two fingers on one hand, tap the “karate chop” area on the outer edge of the other hand while repeating the statement three times.

5

While repeating, e.g., “intense neck pain,” using firm, but gentle pressure, use either two or four fingers to tap these areas, on either side, five to seven times in sequences as follows: * side of eyebrow * side of eye * under eye * under nose 28

* chin * inner collarbone * under arm * top of head

6

Refocus on the original problem and rate its intensity. Restate what you’re feeling, as needed.

Source: The Tapping Solution for Pain Relief, by Nick Ortner; instructional video at Tinyurl.com/JessicaOrtnerTapping.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

says Ortner. A follow-up with her dentist showed no sign of the former problem.

Up to now, the EFT research is positive. One study from the Energy Medicine University, in Mill Valley, California, found it helped people with chronic pain (some coping with severe fatigue and fibromyalgia) feel physically and emotionally better in as little as a month; another from the Foundation for Epigenetic Medicine, in Santa Rosa, California, showed substantially reduced trauma in institutionalized abused teenagers after just one EFT session.

Meditation vs. Medication: Meditation may not resolve the underlying cause of chronic pain, but research from the University of Alabama demonstrates it can interrupt pain signals to the brain.

It’s at least as effective as opioid painkillers in relieving chronic pain, according to a study led by Cherkin at the University of Washington.

His team’s 342 subjects that had experienced back pain weekly for at least a year were offered either eight meditation and yoga classes, eight cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) sessions or just keeping up their own regular daily routines that did not include yoga and meditation. The results, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, confirm what numerous other studies have reported: 44 percent experienced a “meaningful reduction” in pain within six months of the meditation or CBT sessions, equal to results reported by people taking addictive opioid pharmaceuticals. More, the pain relief continued for up to two years, even if the subjects stopped doing actual sitting meditation.

“Meditation changes the way people think about pain and how they develop skills to keep it from becoming a major focus in their lives,” observes Cherkin.

Regardless of the mechanism, experts in a holistic approach to chronic pain relief agree that encouraging self-control, self-determination and self-empowerment makes a huge difference in patients’ abilities to control pain more naturally and effectively.

Kathleen Barnes is an author of numerous natural health books, including Our Toxic World: A Survivor’s Guide. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

t?

Have You Read What Everyone’s Been Talking Abou

One Doctor’s Journey

A Conversation with Dr. Edward C. Corsello

r, what led C. Corsello, DC, BCAO, a Stratford-based chiropracto atural Awakenings recently discussed with Edward l decay. advanced therapies to reshape the spine and heal spina him to study the Atlas Orthogonal (AO) technique and of his own life.

Discovery of these techniques changed the course

N

What did the chiropractic specialist You were a chiropractor for over 12 focus on? you to ned happe thing years when some He did a series of tests, including adthat changed you. Tell us your story. vanced bio-structural X-rays of my spine. since colitis tive ulcera I’ve suffered with He showed me that I had moderate to chiropractic school and was in and out and severe spinal decay in my neck and al medic both tried of hospitals. I had lower back that was blocking the nerves alternative “cures” for my condition. I ” that run to my colon. By correcting aging “man s dollar of spent thousands my atlas—the first bone in my neck— my symptoms with not only medication through a technique called atlas orthogncture acupu ion, nutrit but also vitamins, onal (AO) and repairing my neck and and traditional chiropractic. You name lower spine with advanced therapies, hopeof point the at it, I tried it. I was I became symptom free. lessness, ready to accept my doctors’ “auto was e diseas my explanation that immune,” my body was “attacking itself,” and it was just a case of “bad genes.“ How did you find your way out?

A colleague convinced me to try a chiropractic specialist in the Midwest. When I arrived, he put aside my voluminous medical file and asked me about my spine. I responded that I had no spinal pain, because at the time I thought that spinal “health” was all about “pain.”

“I mean what is the condition of your spine?” he then said. I admitted that I didn’t know as I hadn’t had an X-ray in years. My last X-ray was when I was in a car accident and had pain. I didn’t understand so I asked him what my spine has to do with my colitis. He answered, “Everything.”

How does the health of your spine directly correlate to your overall health?

The brain has within it everything the body needs to be healthy; it speaks to the body through the spine. When the spine moves out of position, it causes blockages that prevent the brain from communicating to each cell, organ, tissue and system within the body. Where the spine is being choked off, that part of the body will break down. In order for your body to express health, your spine must be healthy. By healing the spine, the nerves can flow at 100 percent, and restoration of health takes place.

resulting from car accidents or athletic injuries—and sciatica. They also help with autism, scoliosis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia and ADHD as well as with digestive diseases like Crohn’s disease and colitis.

Doing the AO correction in conjunction with advanced therapies to heal the spine, we are able to provide permanent relief to some of the most severe and chronic conditions.

How has that experience changed your practice?

I was so impressed with the “miracles” I saw in his office that I decided to expand my practice to offer both AO and advanced therapies to heal the spine. Today, I am one of only two spinal correction specialists and only three AO doctors in the state of Connecticut; people from as far away as New York, Rhode Island, and Delaware come to see me.

I use these powerful techniques that changed my life to treat others who are suffering from asthma and allergies, headaches, neck and back pain—often

Please share some of the feedback you have received.

A patient of mine for over two years who suffers from Parkinson’s stated that the chiropractic treatments and maintaining a healthy lifestyle have helped her get off 11 medications. Another told me that she was diagnosed with narcolepsy with cataplexy in 2009. She said she has been off medication since two months into treatment with us and has no symptoms of narcolepsy with cataplexy any longer.

There are many other stories.

So what do you actually do?

I don’t heal anyone of anything. I perform specific, gentle techniques to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results.

It’s as simple as that! Many people find they actually save money on their health care expenses by seeing me. An entire week of care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit elsewhere.

What about diet and supplements?

Of course, healthy nutrition is important.

However, “life flow”—from the brain to the organs—must work in conjunction with lifestyle. Think of an automobile. If its structure is compromised, you can put the best fuel in it, but it will not run properly. The same is true of the body. Even the best food and vitamins will have only a limited benefit to a body that is breaking down due to a decaying spine.

Stratford, CT Corsello Clinic of Chiropractic | 2021 Main St., 203-381-1800 | CorselloClinic.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

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When a Pain in the Neck is More than a Bother Holistic Approaches Seek the Root Cause of Chronic Pain

I

by Sheri Hatfield

magine having a backache. Now imagine that pain lasting more than 12 weeks. It may lessen on days, but it always comes back. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain relievers barely touch the pain, which prevents sleep, inhibits normal activities and makes life generally unbearable. This is the definition of chronic pain, and millions of Americans suffer from it.

Chronic pain is often linked to the ever-increasing opioid epidemic in the country. This is because millions of people get hooked on painkillers after an injury or surgery after they continue to medicate their continuing pain with prescription or even illegal drugs. Opioids are a class of drugs that interact with nerve cell receptors in the brain and often produce euphoric effects while relieving pain. Fortunately, addicting drugs aren’t the only answer for those seeking relief.

Some people with chronic pain— often stemming from backaches, headaches, TMJ, or joint or arthritis pain—seek pharmacological help only after trying to self-treat with overthe-counter medicines. They realize these medications aren’t good for their overall health, or become weary of the pain and look for stronger, better ways to treat the pain. They may visit 30

their primary care physician, who will prescribe an anti-inflammatory steroid or painkiller—or sometimes both—to help alleviate the pain. However, the pain will often return as the root cause of chronic pain has not been identified.

People who suffer from chronic pain often experience fatigue, depression and anxiety as well. In “How Pain Can Seriously Affect Your Brain”, an April 2016 post featured on PainPhysicians.com, Brenda Poppy ascertains that chronic pain can cause changes to the hippocampus; this is the part of the brain that regulates emotions and helps transform short-term memories into long-term knowledge.

In addition to the actual pain and its obvious effects, chronic pain is actually making people depressed, anxious and unable to remember. What can be done to stop it?

Identifying the root cause of chronic pain can provide lasting long-term relief.

However, finding a physician that can help identify the basis of chronic pain is for many people a long, expensive journey. Health practitioners who specialize in chronic pain management must first determine the type of pain and then identify effective strategies to relieve and, hopefully, stop it.

Dr. David M. Brady, vice president

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

of health sciences, director of the Human Nutrition Institute and associate professor of clinical sciences at the University of Bridgeport, explains that there are localized and global types of chronic pain.

Localized chronic pain has a distinct beginning in a specific body part, such as a traumatic injury or surgery. Global pain is felt everywhere in the body. This is when the individual perceives elevated levels of pain for the simplest thing like light touch or the wind blowing. This is called allogdynia and is typically associated with central nervous system disorders like fibromyalgia.

Localized pain typically affects one part of the body, such as the head, jaw, lower back or joints. It often has a known cause, like an accident, injury, sciatica, or a disease such as cancer or arthritis. In the case of Dr. Andrew Cummins, his chronic pain stemmed from an inflammatory disease called ankylosing spondylitis, which affected his spine, hips and sternum and caused him severe daily pain. After seven years of living on prescription medication— like NSAIDs, steroids and painkillers— Cummins realized they could no longer relieve his pain. His rheumatologist was concerned about increasing his dosage for fear of damaging his liver. Cummins made a decision to heal himself.

He began experimenting with natural supplements, diet and exercise programs to relieve his pain permanently. In working to cure his own chronic pain, he discovered a calling to help others heal theirs and became a licensed naturopathic physician. He now practices at the Shalva Clinic in Westport, focusing his practice on helping heal chronic pain in his patients.

“I understand what it’s like to be in severe pain every moment of every day,” Cummins notes. “I am thrilled to be able to spread the news about how to heal through more natural ways, and get people off the pain medications.”

Cummins uses functional lab tests to identify the physiological cause of patient’s pain. His four tests assess different areas, including stress hormone levels, gut health, detoxification/energy product and levels of inflammation.

Results from the lab tests guide the natural supplement and nutritional plan for healing. Cummins also teaches an

exercise program called Foundation Training, which aims to strengthen the spine and hips to reduce inflammation. For himself, he has seen his treatments work as he has been free from prescription drugs for 10 years, and experiences much less pain.

In his practice at the Shalva Clinic, Cummins now custom creates a diet and exercise plan for his patients with a goal of weaning them off most pharmacological medications in six to 12 months.

When asked about the connection between physical and emotional pain, Cummins says there is a direct connection between psychological trauma and physical pain. This often manifests itself as the second type of chronic pain, global pain, such as that experienced with fibromyalgia.

Unlike localized pain which is typically felt in the joints, fibromyalgia affects the muscles and connective tissues in the body so pain is felt everywhere.

Fibromyalgia is most common in women and is often accompanied by depression, anxiety, panic attacks, fatigue and irritable bowel syndrome. “There is a high statistical correlation between early trauma, abuse, instability and experiences that trigger the fight-or-flight response,” notes Brady.

“It is when the nervous system is bathed in that situation at an early age, and later stress retriggers it, that people can develop fibromyalgia.”

Brady, who is also in private practice at Fairfield-based Whole Body Medicine, is a leading expert on fibromyalgia and has written a book called Fibro-Fix, which helps sufferers understand the disorder and heal themselves through an integrative approach. “Fibromyalgia is deeply rooted in the central nervous system and past events,” says Brady. “Many people are told because a physician can’t find a physical source for the pain, that it is all in their heads. That’s true, but in a very different way.”

His integrative approach to healing the chronic pain involves talk therapy to help patients deal with the past as well as to learn stress management tools and cognitive behavioral therapy; these provide an outlet through prayer, meditation and gentle yoga, among other tools. Brady applies a systematic safe way for regaining movement and strength, which helps the nervous system.

These treatments are combined with a biomedical approach that includes a diet of healthy, whole foods and a reduction in sugar and inflammatory foods. It may also include a high dose of selective amino acids and adaptagenic calming herbs that take the edge off without causing a “zone out” feeling. The approach may also include sleep hygiene, which teaches patients to cut out electronics for the hours before bed, and switching to light bulbs that block blue light.

Whether chronic pain is localized or global, there are natural ways to heal the source of the pain and reduce the need for over-the-counter or prescription medications. It just takes getting to the right practitioner to identify the type of pain and create a pain management solution that works for the patient.

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back to improper back/pelvic alignment. Sometimes by changing what we are doing or not doing, we can change the pain.

Incorporating proper movements, stretching and maintenance techniques should be viewed as “pre-hab”. By changing our viewpoint, the goal is to prevent a breakdown within our bodies rather than rehabilitate from one.

Stretch, Roll and Massage

Put Yourself in Pre-Hab!

Simple Movement Techniques May Prevent Painful Physical Breakown

by Chris Kalisz

M

any of us live in pain. There are an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide who currently suffer from some type of chronic pain. Our bodies, much like our cars, need to be cared for in order for function to be restored; the good news is that maintenance can be easier than we think.

When it comes to pain management, many allopathic doctors are quick to prescribe either pain pills or injections.

In some cases, this treatment may certainly be warranted.

However, if we are able to catch a problem before it becomes chronic, we can save ourselves from a significant amount of pain and accumulated problems. Pills and injections will usually target the painful region, but that area may not actually be the root problem. Sometimes pain is an expression of overcompensation or a symptom of a problem elsewhere in the body. For example, hip and knee pain can often be traced

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Chris Kalisz was a professional wrestler and bodybuilder for 12 years. After years of abuse and a lack of re-balancing his system, Kalisz chose to become a movement therapist and teacher. His Mobility Project 24/7 is an on-demand video library that offers knowledge and education. Connect at MobilityProject.fit/Mobility-on-Demand.

yoga • meditation • massage • reiki • facials

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Are we stretching? That is question one, but we also need to ask ourselves if we are stretching correctly. Many people who stretch actually end up becoming tighter because they are unaware of the proper techniques and application of stretching rules.

Foam rolling or self-massage work can be helpful for those suffering from tension that threatens to become pain.

Trigger points, or “knots”, form in the muscles from over-use, over-compensation, injuries or trauma to the area, general tightness and a variety of other reasons. Self-massage therapy is imperative to cleaning up these knots and releasing the tension. When these knots form, they actually restrict the muscles from working correctly.

The joints are designed with very specific movements and are meant to function optimally. They are held together and encased within the joint capsule, which consists of strong ligaments and surrounding tendons and fascia. Joint mobilization techniques are designed to restore proper range of motion to joints and clean up the joint capsule in order to provide better function.

Foundational and functional movements are another must-have. As we get older, we stop moving in certain patterns; our bodies adapt to what we do. They also adapt to what we don’t do. So if we neglect certain movements, our bodies will lose the ability to perform them easily. When it comes to movement, that old adage, “use it or lose it,” certainly applies. It’s time to be accountable and responsible for our own bodies.

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newsbriefs 7eFit Spa Open House in Stamford

truly open up to look at and address.

Shamanic Healing Retreat The idea of addressing chronic pain in Redding and its emotional component from a

J

oin shamanic practitioners and energetic perspective has spiritual and beenand done since the beginning of time teachers Deana Paqua Jessica by ancienthealing medicine people who pracHunter for a day of shamanic ticed shamanism. for gratitude, transformation, abuntamford has Shamanism is one of the oldest dance, discovery and enlightenment. a new option forms of This all-day healing retreat is spiritual open and energetic healing for those seeking on the planet. to anyone and all levels who wish From a shamanic perto look and feel chronic to learn more about spective, shamanism and pain and the emotheir best during ™ tional expressions shamanic healing practices and tech- that come with it are the holiday seaobserved andinto dealt with through energy niques that can be incorporated son and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridge Road, Deana Paqua and spirit connections.

A shaman does daily life for transformation and posioffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive technot will just be seeheld “symptoms”; they will tive changes. The event at niques to support mind and body wellness. An open house is look at them and see the final physical the sanctuary at The Redding Center scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm. expression of an issue that has surfaced for Meditation on November 14 from The regular service offerings—which will be available as from a deeper energetic or spiritual Relax while our technology 10am to 5pm. brief demonstration sessions during the open house—include cause. and teach. does work A variety of techniques anti-aging andthe oxygen facials with oxygen therapy, Torc Plus bio Athroughout shaman will observe the whole Noelectric surgery or invasive procedures. ings will be incorporated stimulation for targeted muscle activation (also available person, including the physical, menInfrared Sauna therapy) • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifi- the day, including shamanic journey tal, spiritual and emotional aspects.

Myolift • Torc Body Waxing personal weight loss program. work, shamanic ceremonies, crystal cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster Ultimately, the physical expression is Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki The Torc Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known to be healing, various spirit medicine healing the final manifestation of the issue. The Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials teachings and shamanic techniques for effective for muscle tightening, toning, cellulite reduction Jessica Hunter shaman then looks deeper to the helpTeeth Whitening clearing and manifestation practices. and inch loss. ing spirits for guidance on the cause of Paqua and Hunter bring a unique and informative combinaSave Tracey Now with Founder Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident the issue and the energy surrounding it Introductory Prices! tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. and business owner, decided to open 7eFitSpa because she that needs healing. In many cases, the

by Jessica Hunter Paqua specializes in Andean and South American shaCall 203-356-5822 wanted a new business dedicated to helping people look “root” of the issue can be the opposite manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American and feel their best. The |spa had a soft opening in June but of the actual physical manifestation. For 1092 High Ridge Stamford, hronic pain,Road experienced

by CT 06905 medicine according toshamanic the presenting traditions. Together, they provide educational and was fully operational with| all equipment and services avail7efitspact1@gmail.com www.7efitspa.com example, if a female individual is suffermany individuals in many difsymptoms. Isn’t it imperative to really inspirational shamanic gatherings that encompass a variety able in mid-September. ing from something such as uterine canferent forms, can come with get to the root of the symptoms?

The of teachings and a global connection of a variety of Shacer, the spiritual or energetic root may emotional challenges in addition to the other aspect to healingmanic and addressing Healing practices.

For more information, visit 7eLLC.com and visit the go as deep as repressed emotions that physical. In modern medicine, the pain chronic pain physically and emotionStamford location, email 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or call have “settled” in that area. It could be is often correlated and diagnosed to a ally is in the root of energetic and For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net and been 203-356-5822. Location: 1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford ancestral blockages that may have type of specific illness or imbalance; spiritual components; this is something HunterHealingHands.com.

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connected to creativity issues, or it could be an intrusion that was implanted or taken in during a trauma.

The practitioner may look at a case like this and ask the individual, “When did you stop singing and dancing in life?

When did you stop feeling joy?” The shaman would also connect psychically and spiritually with the helping spirits to see what is recommended as the best route of resolution.

Depending on the root cause from the spiritual and energetic perspective, a shaman may utilize extraction, soul retrieval, ancestral healing, crystal healing, energy transformation healing, power animal retrieval work, ceremony or other shamanistic techniques. In many cases, an issue may have multiple components that led to the creation of the actual manifestation. By going to the energetic and spiritual roots of the issue, there is a deeper opportunity to heal, transform, balance and harmonize the base of the problem from its true energy and spirit source. Just as the issue that has manifested has gone through ripples of creation to appear, it also goes through a rippling process to unravel and transform in its healing process in shamanism.

Individual Receptivity to Healing

The other aspect to healing from the shamanic perspective is the individual’s true wishes and desires to accept healing.

Shamanic healing is a collaborative process. The helping spirits can present and facilitate the healing for the individual; how the individual then embodies the healing from the spirits and applies it to their life is the other part of this equation. The spirits cannot interfere with someone’s free will, and cannot “make” someone want to heal. The individual truly must want it, be truly open to receiving and work their part as well. When they do, it is an amazing aspect of healing that can transform, harmonize and assist the individual in moving forward in their healing process, clear blockages, and provide states of renewal and new doors of opportunity.

Today, shamanic healing is continuing to be facilitated by modern shamanic practitioners. This ancient tradition and healing path is becoming more mainstream with its premise of healing the “whole” person rather than just a limited view of the manifested symptoms. Our ancient ancestors truly understood this, and the practices have stood the test of time as a result. Seek a shamanic practitioner who has committed to extensive formal training and has established experience in facilitating shamanic healing work. Shamanic healing does not just involve natural abilities alone, and should never be attempted untrained. It also involves a commitment to apprenticing with a seasoned shaman for an extended amount of time. Additionally, shamanic practitioners must commit to continued education and their own personal healing process; a healer cannot truly assist another in their healing process unless they are committed to their own healing as well.

Jessica Hunter is a shamanic practitioner, teacher and medium; crystal healing teacher; Melody crystal healing practitioner; Reiki master; and acupressurist. She is in private practice in Bridgeport and is also available for sessions at Healing White Light in Newtown. Connect at HunterHealingHands.com. See ad, page 22.

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June 2017

35

Why Medical Cannabis?

Connecticut Offers Options for Many Situations

by Ariana Rawls Fine

G

aining access to marijuana for overwhelming and painful symptoms of serious afflictions can make a difference for that person’s quality of life and well-being while they fight to get better. Twenty-nine states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico currently allow for public medical marijuana and cannabis programs. Connecticut is one of the states that offers its citizens the option of medical marijuana for certain conditions. For those interested in exploring this option, there are many “who, what, how and where” questions to research.

Whether it is utilizing medical marijuana, more readily available CBD oils or whole-plant hemp extracts, an important emotional and mental aspect is best summed up by physician David Casarett in his “A doctor’s case for medical marijuana” TedMed 2016 video: “A lot of the patients I talked with who’ve turned to medical marijuana for help, weren’t turning to medical marijuana because of its benefits or the balance of risks and benefits, or because they thought it was a wonder drug, but because it gave them control over their illness. It let them manage their health in a way that was productive and efficient and effective 36

and comfortable for them.” Relief and a semblance of control is what most patients are seeking.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of over 60 chemical compounds, or cannabinoids, found in the female cannabis flower, and the only one with psychoactive effects. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is another cannabinoid component that is non-psychoactive. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2014 Farm Bill defined cannabis containing less than 0.3 percent THC as “industrial hemp”, while cannabis with a THC of more than 0.3 percent was deemed “marijuana”. While a medical marijuana card from Connecticut’s Medical Marijuana Program (MMP) is needed in order to order products with more than 0.3 percent THC, CBD products are more readily available and can be purchased online and over the counter at some health food stores in the area.

Connecticut’s Medical Marijuana Program (MMP)

Connecticut’s MMP was first established and signed into law in 2012. It was designed to enable truly sick patients to engage in the palliative use of marijuana while preventing marijuana

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

from being misused or diverted from its medical purpose. The law and program provide immunity from state criminal and civil penalties for physicians, patients, caregivers, dispensaries and producers who act responsibly in accordance with the law. The most current statistics from the program show there are 17,964 registered medical marijuana patients in the state, with 3,673 in Fairfield County, 4,215 in New Haven County, 1,097 in Middlesex County and 1,107 in Litchfield County. There are currently nine dispensary facilities and four medical marijuana producers in Connecticut. Local dispensaries include Compassionate Care Center in Bethel, Bluepoint Wellness of Connecticut in Branford, and Arrow Alternative Care #2, Inc. and Southern CT Wellness & Healing, LLC, both in Milford. As of May 11, 2017, there are 682 registered physicians in the MMP, which means these physicians can legally prescribe for specific indications.

The medical conditions currently approved by Connecticut for adults include cancer, glaucoma, positive status for HIV or AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, epilepsy, cachexia, wasting syndrome, Crohn’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sickle cell disease, post laminectomy syndrome with chronic radiculopathy, severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ulcerative colitis, complex regional pain syndrome, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, irreversible spinal cord injury with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, terminal illness requiring end-of-life care and uncontrolled intractable seizure disorder.

For patients less than 18 years of age, the covered debilitating medical conditions include cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, irreversible spinal cord injury with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, severe epilepsy, terminal illness requiring end-of-life care and uncontrolled intractable seizure disorder.

While the list of conditions is fixed, it has expanded since the MMP first began and the Department of

Consumer Protection does consider petitions to add debilitating conditions, treatments or diseases to the current list of 22 conditions for adults and six conditions for youth patients allowed by law.

Medical Cannabis: Part of the Program

Despite the widespread perception of marijuana needing to be inhaled by the patient for them to reap benefits, there are actually a number of ways to use medical cannabis. Dispensaries such as Southern CT Wellness & Healing offer products in other forms, including flowers, vape oils, concentrates, edibles, capsules/tablets, oral syringes and sprays, oral strips, tinctures and topicals.

For those with qualifying conditions, the process is streamlined. Only a physician can begin the MMP application process as they need to certify for the state that the patient has a medical condition that qualifies for a medical marijuana registration certificate. Similar to getting a passport, proof of identity, proof of Connecticut residency, a passport-size photograph and a $100 registration fee are required elements. For those that need a primary caregiver to fill the medical marijuana prescription, that person must register as a qualified caregiver before the department will issue the patient a registration certificate.

The patient then turns to the approved medical marijuana dispensary to begin the prescription process. “When a patient is diagnosed with one of the conditions, we need to know which symptoms they need help with. With PTSD, for instance, we would investigate whether they have anxiety during the day, night terrors or other specific symptoms.

Based on the need, we would adjust what THC:CBD ratio was needed and what type of delivery system was best for that patient,” explains Deepa Desai, PharmD, one of four pharmacists who own Southern CT Wellness & Healing.

Dosing depends on the patient’s symptoms, their history, the side effects of their current medications, and the patient’s familiarity with using marijuana and how it affects their body, says Desai. As an example, she explains, they may start with a lower dose for patients that have not tried cannabis before in order to gauge how they react.

Crohn’s disease is another example. Medical marijuana has the potential to alleviate nausea, vomiting and headache symptoms in order to help the patient eat more food. Since there usually are issues with ingestion, delivery might be suggested via syringes under the tongue, tinctures or dissolvable strips.

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Cannabinoid Products: Outside the MMP

What happens if someone does not have one of the conditions currently approved for medical marijuana prescriptions but would like to try medical marijuana to relieve pain from arthritis or another condition? Companies with CBD products operate outside of the state medical marijuana program so a medical marijuana card is not needed to obtain products. It is important to note that CBD-labeled dietary supplements with the single CBD cannabinoid can currently only be legally sold in states with medical marijuana laws. However, a wholeplant, hemp extract CBD product that contains all cannabieNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

37

Positive & Nature Based Psychology Promoting well-being and resilience.

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38

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

noids—such as the Stanley Brothers’ proprietary Charlotte’s Web grown in Colorado—can be sold in all 50 states.

“We have been filling in the gaps with people who are not interested in the psychoactive high and also those who cannot qualify for a medical card but still need and are seeking relief,” says Lisa Macre of Orange-based MedTech Healthcare Solutions. The company was created by owner Thomas Macre to offer clients a variety of hemp oils, gel pens and supplements made from the proprietary Charlotte’s Web whole-plant hemp extract. “The reason we are legal across the U.S. is because we can guarantee that there is 0.3 percent THC or less in our products; they are grown, manufactured and bottled in one plant,” explains Allison Ondy, MedTech’s director of operations. “Growers can have similar strains but the percentage of THC can vary.”

Ondy mentions that their accounts with naturopaths, integrated health offices and apothecaries continue to grow as the products can also be used as a supplement for general well-being. “We are even working with a neurologist in Manhattan since the product is a great neuro-protectant,” Lisa Macre adds. In regard to child dosing, Ondy says, they refer clients to the Realm of Caring nonprofit, which focuses on dosing and recommended variations, especially for children.

“I have been in pain for over 20 years due to fibromyalgia, arthritis and spinal stenosis. I’ve tried everything to alleviate my symptoms, including pain meds, shots, acupuncture, trigger point injections, patches. Nothing works as well as this oil. After one month of use, my pain is 80 percent improved. My ‘brain fog’ has been replaced with clarity and focus. I am less anxious and experience a sense of well-being without the ‘high’ that THC causes,” says Louise Barillaro of her experience with the Charlotte’s Web oil.

State Researching Expansion of MMP

The door was opened for research into prospective new uses for medical marijuana in our state during Connecticut’s 2016 legislative session. Department of Public Health-licensed medical facilities, higher education institutions and medical marijuana dispensary facilities and producers licensed in Connecticut were given the greenlight at that time to start applying for research program licenses.

The first Connecticut medical marijuana research program was approved in December 2016. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection gave the go-ahead to Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center’s Medical Marijuana research program to study the effectiveness of medical marijuana versus oxycodone in patients experiencing pain after suffering multiple rib fractures. Branford’s The Connecticut Hospice Inc. has also been approved for their study on the use of cannabis for pain management and opioid usage reductions in palliative care.

Ariana Rawls Fine is editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT and New Haven/Middlesex Counties, CT. She resides in Stratford with her family.

For more information about Connecticut’s MMP, visit tinyurl.com/CTMMP2017.

natural awakenings

CBD Facts You Need to Know

JULY

by Bert Telles

C

annabidiol, or CBD, is one of the key ingredients in cannabis. CBD is one of more than 60 compounds unique to the marijuana plant and grouped under the umbrella term “cannabinoids”. CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most common cannabinoids in the cannabis plant and are therefore the most widely studied. CBD does not get us high like THC can. CBD can be made from medical marijuana plants or industrial hemp plants. Industrial hemp, when grown in other countries, can be imported legally into the United States, making it easier for consumers to get high-quality CBD treatment. CBD and THC levels vary between plants. Marijuana plants grown for recreational use tend to be high in THC and varying amounts of CBD. Industrial hemp plants are very low in THC and high in CBD. It is legal to purchase CBD made from industrial hemp plants for use in any state without a prescription. Scientific studies show CBD provides therapeutic medicinal benefits.

A healthy appetite is vital to a healthy body, especially when the body is healing. Some illnesses decrease the appetite to the point of preventing the body from healing itself. According to the National Cancer Institute, CBD stimulates appetite and is therefore therapeutic from this standpoint. In the human body, CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors in the body. Scientists believe these receptors play an important role in regulating feeding behavior. CBDs stimulate appetite when they dock onto these receptors. According to a 2013 review published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, CBD soothes nausea and vomiting, acts as an anti-oxidant to reduce free radicals that cause neurodegenerative disorders, and works as an anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling. CBD also relieves pain and may work to reduce chronic anxiety and depression disorders. These benefits of CBD are also helpful for patients struggling with temporary anxiety and depression resulting from a more serious medical condition. The effects of CBD on children with uncontrolled seizures is currently under investigation. Study participants suffer symptoms resistant to conventional treatments. Many participants have Dravet syndrome, a condition that begins in early childhood and causes frequent, disabling seizures on a daily basis.

Even with the wave of states legalizing medical marijuana, many physicians are still reluctant to prescribe cannabinoids because they are not sure what dosages to prescribe. After all, most medical schools never cover CBD in their pharmacology courses. Medical scientists are just now developing dosing schedules for medical marijuana, medicinal hemp and their extracts, including CBD.

CBD-rich hemp oil comes in various concentrations and forms, including liquid hemp oil, hemp oil as a thick paste, oil in capsules, sublingual tincture drops or sprays, salves for topical use, edibles as in candy or gum, and CBD vapor from vaporizers similar to e-cigarettes.

Bert Telles is the founder of Allegiance Wellness Center Inc. For more information, visit AllegianceWellnessCenter.org.

Summer’s Bounty plus: Detoxification and Natural Beauty

July articles include: Summer’s Bounty; Benefits of and Strategies for Natural Detoxing; Summer Beauty Ideas and so much more!

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June 2017

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chronicpainprofiles Universal Intelligence, LLC

Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute

Redding 203-451-3383 Support@UniversalIntelligence.info UniversalIntelligence.info Practice/Business summary: My name is Althea, which means “healer”. I work collaboratively with clients to release them from where they are “stuck” to where they would like to be. In a safe, tranquil environment, I use the modalities of hypnosis, coaching and emotional freedom techniques, among others.

When did your interest in this healing work start?

My interest in healing began at a very early age with intuition.

List any areas of specialty and/or any special certifications: I specialize in life’s struggles for all ages, male and female.

I am a registered consulting hypnotist, certified professional coach, relationship coach, bereavement coach, EFT practitioner, mental fitness coach, veterans’ stress project coach and a Reiki practitioner.

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

To achieve their desired results utilizing the subconscious mind, which has the answers to recognize and achieve what you want and need. Healing relationships, losing weight, removing fears, releasing pain, physical, emotional, releasing stress, divorce, self-esteem, anywhere there is a blockage and imbalance.

What techniques or products do you typically use/recommend to patients?

Hypnosis, coaching, emotional freedom technique and other related modalities.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you/your approach to healing chronic pain?

Using your most powerful resource, your mind, can help eliminate and reduce chronic and acute pain. Using hypnosis before undergoing surgery has proven to lessen pain and shorten healing time. The modalities I use are effective in releasing pain that has been long standing or recent.

40

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203-797-0551 DBAdmissions@Ridley.edu Ridley.edu Facebook.com/RidleyLowell YouTube.com/user/RidleyLowelledu

Practice/Business summary: Career training programs in esthetics to prepare you to work as a skincare therapist and massage therapist to prepare you to work with Eastern and Western modalities.

How much experience do your instructors have?

Massage therapy and esthetician instructors have more than 50 years experience collectively in these trades. They run hands-on classes to transfer their passion and skills in these healing careers to students.

How long has the school been in existence?

Ridley-Lowell is the oldest trade school in the Northeast and has graduated thousands of trained, skilled therapists into new careers.

What should a student expect?

The massage therapy program is 900 hours and qualifies graduates to take their Connecticut state licensing exam. The esthetician program is 600 hours and qualifies graduates for neighboring state licensure.

What products does your school partner with?

Our skincare program is a Dermalogica partner school and uses MUSE Beauty make-up products while our massage program uses Biotone, Bon Vital and Lotus Touch products.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you/your approach to healing chronic pain?

Our massage program teaches students to get a medical history and detailed intake form, and to be able to assess which techniques would be best for clients with chronic pain and/or medical conditions.

natural awakenings

Black Rock Holistic Health Center Whole Health Thermography LLC Kristine M. DeMarco, DC, MS, MS 825 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield 203-333-6544 DeMarcoChiropractic.com Practice/Business Summary: I am a licensed chiropractor doctor and owner of the Black Rock Holistic Health Center, founded 15 years ago. My clinic offers chiropractic, nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy and herbal medicine.

I have been an adjunct faculty for 17 years at the University of Bridgeport in College of Naturopathic Medicine and three years in the Chiropractic College.

29 Ground Pine Ln, Easton Scanning at locations throughout Fairfield County and beyond 203-257-3785 WHThermography@gmail.com WholeHealthThermography.com Facebook.com/WholeHealthThermography Practice/Business summary: Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is a noninvasive, no radiation test of physiology. It offers possible earlier detection of breast disease and can aid in the diagnosis and Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI)prognosis of many condioffers safe, FDA approved full body tions and injuries.

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

On my way to medical school, I worked at Montefiore or breast screening.

Medical Center in the epilepsy unit. I saw that nutrition and When did my interest in this healing work start? a ketogenic diet was the last resource after extensive use of Non Invasive • No Radiation I learned about thermography and its benefits 15 years ago anti-convulsive medication. I wanted to help people with • Possible 8 years earlier detection while getting my masters degree in clinical nutrition. Upon preventative medicine first. I also suffer from degenerative vs mammogram graduation, a colleague became a certified clinical thermogdisc disease in my neck and low back; I’ve have spent 20 rapher so I immediately started having breast thermograms. years seeking the most conservative and effective treatments, • Clinical imaging for detecting and which you will find in my office. monitoring a number of diseases How long in practice? and physical injuries.

I added thermography to my practice two years ago. In addiHow long have you been in practice: tion to being a certified After my first career at Berkshire Hathaway with Warren Buf- Rachel Mazzarelli ms,cct clinical thermographer, I’m a clinical nutritionist and certified Kripalu yoga teacher. Given an fett underwriting large line insurance policy, I earned a doc203-257-3785 individual client’s history, I will offer suggestions from a wide torate in chiropractic medicine from University of Bridgeport Offices throughout Fairfield range of modalities. in 2000.

County, New Haven, Milford, Southbury, Brewster and expect from a session?

What training and/or certification do you have?

What should a patient Cross can River,expect NY to feel physically and emotionally comI am trained as a chiropractic primary care doctor for musPatients culoskeletal disorders and have certifications in Graston fortable in their appointment. I allow enough time to answer whthermography@gmail.com technique, Cox flexion distraction, applied kinesiology, and any questions.

I will also offer whatever suggestions and www.wholehealththermography.com acupuncture. I also have a masters in nutrition and a masters referrals I believe would be helpful given the information in acupuncture. I am currently a candidate for a diplomate in shared. orthopedics. I was awarded “Best Chiropractor” in 2009 by Fairfield County Readers’ Poll.

What techniques or products do you typically use?

I will make specific recommendations based on what is What should a client expect from a session or series of shared in our session and what the reporting thermography sessions with you? doctor’s report notes.

A complete history, orthopedic and neurologic exam and the integration of chiropractic, nutrition and acupuncture to What do you most want Natural Awakenings readers to resolve and manage their pain. Review of MRIs and X-rays know about you/your approach? and blood work are done on your first visit.

I truly feel honored to work with my clients and hold sacred the intimate space we often create in our short session. Given What do you most want Natural Awakenings readers to my education and life experiences, sessions are often more know about your work? than just having a thermogram.

Chiropractic treatment is conservative and gentle. Usage of phytonutrients (vitamins) and diet are key in controlling inflammation. We work to control inside inflammation (source of pain) and outside inflammation (physical pain). Using multiple tools mentioned above allows me to help manage your pain successfully. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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chronicpainprofiles MedTech Healthcare Solutions

Corsello Chiropractic Clinic

284 Racebrook Rd, Ste 217, Orange 203-298-0677 Allison@MedTechHealthcare.com MedTechHealthcare.com Facebook.com/CWHempNE Facebook.com/MedTechHealthcareSolutions1

Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO 2021 Main St, Stratford 203-381-1800 Contact@CorselloClinic.com CorselloClinic.com

Practice/Business summary: We specialize in alternative therapies for patients that suffer from chronic pain and other health issues. We strive to give the patient a sense of control with their therapies. We started as a durable medical equipment business in 2010 and added CW Hemp to our list of products in January.

We saw CW Hemp as a perfect fit for our vision as a medical company, which is to take care of the whole patient.

When did your interest in this healing work start?

We started as the Charlotte’s Web New England and New York distributor in January of this year.

How long have you been in practice?

Since 2010.

List any areas of specialty and/or any special certifications: We sell CW Hemp as a retail item. We also fill prescriptions for TENS and NMES machines, and braces.

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

The product is available online.

What techniques or products do you typically use/ recommend to patients?

All patients are encouraged to go to the Realm of Caring website (TheRoc.us) with any questions regarding dosing.

Here, they can create an account and speak to someone about their specific needs and get recommendations for use.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you/your approach to healing chronic pain?

Our approach has always been patient centered. We are committed to helping the patient meet any goals they might have related to their health. CW Hemp is a great way to meet many of those needs. Customers should visit medtechhealthcare.com for additional information, or call 203-298-0677. Any of our staff would be willing to help.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Practice/Business summary: Our mission is to build healthy families for a lifetime of wellness in a loving and compassionate setting. We offer specialized techniques, including Atlas Orthogonal (AO) and advanced therapies to heal the spine, as well as physical therapy and nutrition.

What first drew you to this profession?

I was first drawn to chiropractic while searching for answers for my own health. I suffered with ulcerative colitis for many years before learning that by doing the AO correction in conjunction with correcting my spine—which takes pressure off my nervous system—I could become symptomfree without drugs or surgery. Now I use these powerful techniques that changed my life to provide permanent relief to patients suffering with neck and back pain as well as many severe and chronic health conditions.

How is your work different from that of others in your profession?

My work is different because I am a board-certified AO doctor. I am trained in advanced spinal correction techniques.

I am one of only two spinal correction specialists and only three AO doctors in the state of Connecticut.

What should a client or patient expect from working with you?

At your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive examination using computerized technology that can detect the hidden causes of your health problem and, if medically necessary, advanced biostructural digital X-rays.

Treatment consists of specific, gentle techniques to remove nerve pressure.

What is the most important thing you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your business?

Call us and mention Natural Awakenings to receive a discounted consultation. We take health insurance and are currently accepting new patients.

natural awakenings

Valley Spirit Wellness Center

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

Jampa Stewart, MSOM, Board Certified Acupuncturist 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com ValleySpiritCoop.com

David Johnston, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ste 8, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 Info@OsteopathicWellness.net OsteopathicWellness.net

Practice/Business summary: Stewart offers both Chinese and Japanese-style acupuncture therapy, Chinese herbal medicine and various styles of Asian bodywork therapy. He also teaches several styles of tai chi, qigong and meditation, including healing Tao energy meditations of Taoist master and author Mantak Chia.

What first drew you to this profession?

I was drawn to the healing arts through my energetic experiences from Zen meditation and tai chi. I wanted to learn more about Chinese medicine and the energy pathways and points to use my energy for healing others. I also had some remarkable acupuncture experiences that inspired me to learn.

How is your work different from that of others in your profession?

My Chinese medical training included in-depth Chinese herbal studies. We offer a comprehensive herbal medicine apothecary to support your acupuncture treatments. I also give customized qigong exercises and dietary prescriptions for helping you to be proactive in your healing journey.

What should a patient expect from working with you?

As a new patient, you’ll receive a thorough health history evaluation and exam, a Chinese medical diagnosis, acupuncture (or acupressure/bodywork) therapy and a customized Chinese herbal prescription. You may also get dietary advice and a specific exercise prescription for your condition.

What is the most important thing you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you/your business?

We are a cooperative arts venture, offering healing arts, fine arts, graphic arts and movement arts. In addition to services already described above, we also offer over 16 weekly yoga classes and massage therapy.

Practice/Business summary: Dr. Johnston provides gentle, intuitive, hands-on osteopathic and craniosacral treatment to release restrictions in fascia, muscles and joints, and restore circulation and balance of the nervous system.

Effective for inflammation and pain, concussions, birth trauma, sports injuries, stress/anxiety, headaches and fibromyalgia. Detoxification, nutrition and specialized bloodwork also offered. Complimentary wellness consultations for newborns, children and adults.

What led you to become a physician?

From an early age, I observed my parents struggle with chronic health issues, which gave me a deeper appreciation for prevention of disease. Osteopathic medicine provided the perfect tool, combining holistic and traditional approaches for healing the whole person.

Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began?

Health and wellness is not just about the absence of disease and treating the patient’s symptoms. To experience true health and wholeness, a person must be empowered on their life journey to care for and nurture their body, mind and spirit.

Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications?

Board-certified in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and Nutrition. Associate faculty for the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation and Osteopathic Cranial Academy.

What should a patient expect from working with you?

As you enter our serene wellness center, expect to be empowered on your healing journey. Forty-five minutes of healing hands-on osteopathic treatment with Dr. Johnston will provide you with results you can feel immediately.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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chronicpainprofiles chronicpainguide Vincent Fraser, CST, CAT Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com VincentFraser.com Practice/Business summary: Craniosacral therapy; Alexander technique; Somatic Experiencing.

I use these modalities to promote a deeper conscious embodiment, which leads to a fuller experience of living, with less pain and more awareness, choice, and ease of movement.

OVERCOMING

Chronic

PAIN

When did your interest in this healing work start?

In my early twenties I became very interested in the relationship of the body to attention, sensation and freedom.

This initially took the form of meditation and healing through the auric field, and later expanded to embodiment practices and everyday activities.

How long have you been in practice? List any areas of specialty and/or any special certifications: I’m a certified Alexander technique teacher for 26 years, and have also studied resolving trauma in the body-mind through Craniosacral Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. I get good results helping people with back pain, headaches, TMJ and neck pain. I also work with a lot of musicians, singers and actors.

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

Clients can expect to be met where they are, moment to moment, without judgement, and to experience a gentle, healing touch. All sessions are done with the client fully clothed.

What techniques or products do you typically use/ recommend to patients?

I share effective methods of self-care tailored to the client’s concerns and capacities. I also educate, in both thought and sensation, how trauma shows up in the nervous system.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you/your approach to healing chronic pain?

I respectfully invite the client’s inherent impulse towards health to expand, as this is “what wants to happen” in all of life. Many of our difficulties are not as personal as we experience them, but result from injuries to the nervous system and physiology, which can heal.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

A Guide to

Effective Modalities & Local Resources

T

here are as many as 1.5 billion people in the world who report suffering from chronic pain. The sad truth is chronic pain is a part of many peoples’ lives, whether it stems from the repercussions of an injury, the side effects of an illness or medication, the by-product of a chronic condition, or results from long-term poor nutrition and lifestyle choices. Conventional treatments and approaches often fall short of relief or cause unwanted side effects. With this backdrop in mind, Natural Awakenings has put together a brief guide to the non-conventional modalities which might help alleviate or even eliminate pain. Sometimes knowing the modality is helpful but finding local practitioners still presents a challenge. We have developed this resource guide to more than a dozen modalities demonstrated to be effective in easing or elimination of chronic pain and included basic contact information for practitioners and centers all over Fairfield and Southern Litchfield Counties. We caveat up front: this list is far from exhaustive! It is simply a place to start for someone seeking relief. If your favorites are not listed, please tell them about this and ask them to consider getting involved with Natural Awakenings so more people can find out about them.

natural awakenings

ACUPUNCTURE

A

cupuncture is an ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine healing technique that stimulates the body’s ability to sustain and balance itself. It is based on the theory that an electromagnetic life-force (qi or chi) is channeled in a continuous flow throughout the body via a network of meridians. To correct imbalances, a practitioner inserts acupuncture needles at specific points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the flow of lifeforce. Since the goal of acupuncture is to restore energy balance, it can benefit general well-being as well as a wide range of conditions.

Many clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has effectively helped painful conditions such as joint or spinal pain, rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, sprains and side effects of cancer treatments, among other issues.

AROMATHERAPY/ ESSENTIAL OILS

A

Jody Eisemann, Lac Norwalk and Southport 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com

n ancient healing art that uses the essential oils of herbs and flowers to treat emotional disorders such as stress and anxiety as well as a wide range of other ailments and painful conditions. Oils are massaged into the skin, inhaled or added to a water bath.

The oils are often used in conjunction with massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, herbology, chiropractic or other holistic treatments.

Research has shown that, in most cases, aromatherapy can be a safe, cost-effective addition to pain management measures. It can decrease cortisol levels, lower heart rate and reduce inflammation. With anxiety and energy depletion being a part of chronic pain sufferer’s lives, anxiety reduction and vitality rejuvenation have also been shown to be benefits with using aromatherapy. Since essential oils are made from plants, be aware of any allergic reactions, including headaches, skin rashes or wheezing.

CT ACUPUNCTURE CENTER

ELYSIAN LIFE DESIGN

ACUPUNCTURE HEALING CT

Ingri Boe-Wiegaard, Lac Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com

Stacey Lyons 914-336-7693 • ElysianLD.com

FAIRFIELD NATUROPATHIC HEALTH Veena Verma-Dzik, ND Ridgefield • 203-247-9496 FairfieldNaturopathicHealth.com

Kerry Hardy, RN, HNB-BC, RMT, CCH 203-895-5134 HolisticHeavenWellness.com MyDoterra.com/HolisticHeavenWellness

HUDSON VALLEY NATURAL HEALTH

JOHANNE ROUSSEAU-HOLT

Kurt Beil, NC, Lac, MPH Danbury • 914-362-8315 HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com

KARA ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS Laura Shahinian Kara, MS, Lac Dipl Bethel and Westport • 203-470-7072 AcuLaura.com Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc Brookfield • 203-740-9300 INM.Center

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS & COOPERATIVE Jampa Stewart, MSOM, LAc Washington Depot • 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND Norwalk • 203-847-2788 Info@DrMarvinSchweitzer.com DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

OPTIMAL MIND Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 • OptimalMind.net

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE & ASSOCIATES LLC Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 • DrRoseann.com Adam Breiner, ND Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN Fairfield • 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

CHIROPRACTIC

C

Woodbury • 203-393-9167 TheRubyTreeCT.com

RS HOLISTIC COUNSELING AND HEALING Rebecca Schoenewolf Danbury • 203-826-2558 RSHolisticServices.com

BIOFEEDBACK/ NEUROFEEDBACK

B

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE

HOLISTIC HEAVEN

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

metabolic changes (e.g., temperature, heart rate and muscle tension) with the aid of sensitive machines. By consciously thinking, visualizing, moving and relaxing, they learn which activities produce desirable changes in the internal processes being monitored.

Biofeedback has been shown to be useful for chronic pain issues such as headaches and migraines, back pain, head injuries, muscle spasms, muscle pain and immobility, spinal cord injuries and other conditions with painful side effects.

iofeedback, also known as neurofeedback, is a relaxation technique that monitors internal body states. It is used especially for stress-related conditions such as asthma, migraines, insomnia and high blood pressure. During biofeedback, patients monitor minute

hiropractic is based on the premise that proper structural alignment permits free flow of nerve activity in the body. When spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, they put pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves radiating from it, potentially leading to diminished function of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and potentially to illness. Misalignment can be caused by physical trauma, poor posture and stress.

An ever-increasing list of research studies are showing services provided by chiropractic physicians help patients with acute and chronic pain, headaches, and back and neck pain, in addition to helping prevent injuries and increase overall well-being.

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ASSOCIATES IN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC AND NATURAL HEALTH CARE Risa Sloves, DC & Mark Joachim, DC, FIAMA Norwalk • 203-838-1555 CTChiropractic.com CTNutritionCenter.com

BLACK ROCK HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER Kristine M. DeMarco, DC, MS, MS Fairfield • 203-333-6544 DeMarcoChiropractic.com

JILL M. CAPALBO, DC, CCSP Stamford • 203-323-0522 CapalboChiropractic.com

CORSELLO CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO Stratford • 203-381-1800 CorselloClinic.com

TRUE HEALTH FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Peter Braglia, DC Stratford • 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com

WESTPORT CHIROPRACTIC Westport • 203-293-7478 WestportChiropractic.com

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY (CST)

A

manual therapeutic procedure to remedy distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism­including the brain, spinal cord, the bones of the skull, sacrum and interconnected membranes.

CST is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), eye and ear problems, learning difficulties, dyslexia and hyperactivity.

CT CENTER FOR CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY New Milford • 860-367-2926 CTCranio.com

SABITA HOLISTIC CENTER Southport • 203-254-2633 SabitaHolisticCenter.com

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE (EFT)

C

ombining ancient Chinese medicine principles with modern psychology, the self-help procedure combines fingertip tapping of key acupuncture meridian points while focusing on an emotional issue or health challenge.

Unresolved, “stuck” or negative emotions, caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system, are seen as major contributors to most physical pains and diseases. EFT is easy to memorize and portable, so it can be done anywhere.

Researched in more over than 10 countries, EFT studies have shown positive influence on issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress and emotional trauma. Findings also suggest that EFT can help reduce pain severity in addition to helping patients’ ability to live with the pain they are experiencing.

BOWEN HEALING CENTER Jacqueline M Kane, Owner Torrington • 860-307-0232 BowenHealingCenter.com

MARIAN EDVARDSEN Norwalk • 203-858-2681 MarianEdvardsen.com

ALISON HELD Westport • 203-557-4192 HealthfulDirection.com

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH & ADVOCACY, LLC Debbie Morgan Ridgefield and Sherman 203-948-5372 IntegrativeHealthAdvocacy.com

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE & ASSOCIATES, LLC Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 •DrRoseann.com

FLOATATION THERAPY

VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT Fairfield County • 203-570-2059 VincentFraser.com

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F

loatation therapy—also known as floating, floatation, sensory deprivation or R.E.S.T (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy)—involves a person

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

lying in a warm, Epsom salt solution in a room or tank without light and almost no sound. The reduction in stimuli helps people reach slower brainwave states, calming the nervous system, reducing stress and alleviating physical pain. Floating in this highly concentrated Epsom salt may also increase the uptake of magnesium, which is poorly absorbed by the gut, but well-absorbed through the skin.

The Fibromyalgia Flotation Project (FFP), an international study led by Dr. Rod Borrie from Long Island, New York, is investigating how sensory isolation floatation therapy can help people with this condition.

Initial FFP findings from Europe indicate that floatation therapy may dramatically reduce fibromyalgia pain by calming the nervous system and providing magnesium to patients that are deficient in this mineral. Affecting an estimated 2 percent of the general population and women 10 times more frequently than men, the disorder causes systemic musculoskeletal pain.

The FPP in the U.S. has completed data collection and begun the data analysis portion of the study; results are expected before the end of 2017.

Floatation has been demonstrated to provide relief from a variety of chronic and stress-related conditions, including pain associated with fibromyalgia, injuries and Lyme disease. Studies have also shown that floating lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and high blood pressure.

IFLOAT Westport • 203-226-7378 IfloatCT.net

PUREST FLOAT SPA Trumbull • 203-445-6918 PuRestfloat.com

GUIDED IMAGERY/CREATIVE VISUALIZATION

G

uided imagery uses positive thoughts, images and symbols to focus the mind on the workings of the body to accomplish a particular goal, desired outcome or physiological change, such as pain relief or healing of disease. This flow of thought can take many forms and, through the imagination, involve all the physical senses

Research findings over the past several decades have shown that guided imagery has a positive impact on blood pressure, pain levels, headaches, cholesterol numbers, glucose levels, recovery from surgery and even morphine use after surgical procedures.

It can also lessen the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

MUKTINATH HOLISTIC CENTER Monroe • 203-518-5808 MuktinathHolisticCenter.com

THE RUBY TREE Woodbury • 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com

THE YOGA SHALA Ridgefield • 203-544-8811 TheYogashalaCT.com

THE TOTAL LIFE CARE CENTER (TLC) Beth Leas Norwalk • 203-856-9566

HERBAL MEDICINE

T

his oldest form of medicine uses natural plants in a wide variety of forms for their therapeutic value. Herbs produce and contain various chemical substances that act upon the body to strengthen its natural functions without the negative side effects of synthetic drugs. They may be taken internally or applied externally via teas, tinctures, extracts, oils, ointments, compresses and poultices.

There is evidence that many botanical medicines can offer effective primary and complementary pain management and inflammation reduction. Because botanicals contain active chemicals, it is important to be aware of possible interactions with medications or foods as well as for certain conditions, such as pregnancy.

ANDREA CANDEE, MASTER HERBALIST South Salem, NY • 914-763-8889 AndreaCandee.com

CHAMOMILLE NATURAL FOODS Barry Sherr, RH, AHG, Nutritionist Danbury • 203-792-8952 ChamomilleNaturalFoods.Wordpress.com

Quality Programs for the Mind, Body & Soul

r P resents

June 14 Bhakti Center NY donation only Conversation on Life and Death with Henry Fersko Weiss and Ghandysam June 22 $75 Gene Ang - Spoon Bending

June 28 $40 Tibetan Bowls Meditation Bowls placed on Chakras for healing and meditation July 11 7 - 8:30pm $20 exchange Channeled Grace Healing World Peace Meditation, Mysticism Discussion and Book Signing!

To Register and for more information call (203) 912-2791 or visit www.liphebalance.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

47

NATURAL HEALTH & WELLNESSCENTER

syndrome, rheumatic diseases, allergies and vertigo, among others.

Lisa Singley, ND Stratford • 203-874-4333

DEBRA GIBSON, ND

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC Newtown and Woodbury 800-723-2962 NortheastNatMed.com

SHALVA CLINIC Westport • 203-916-4600 ShalvaClinic.com

TWIN STAR - CONNECTICUT SCHOOL OF HERBAL & ENERGETIC STUDIES

Greenwich • 203-431-4443

HUDSON VALLEY NATURAL HEALTH Kurt Beil, ND, LAc, MPH Danbury • 914-362-8315 HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com

INGELS FAMILY HEALTH Fairfield • 203-254-9957 DarinIngelsND.com

KIM NAGLE

INTEGRATIVEME, LLC

Cheshire and Woodbury 203-565-6495

Lupo Passero, Herbalist, Director New Milford • TwinStarTribe.com

Yufang Lin, MD Stamford • 203-290-1663 eIntegrativeMe.com

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

NATURAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc Brookfield • 203-740-9300 INM.Center

Lisa Singley, ND Stratford • 203-874-4333

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS CENTER

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director Westport • 203-916-4600 ShalvaClinic.org

Jampa Stewart Washington Depot • 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

HOMEOPATHY

A

therapy that uses small doses of specially prepared plants and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to cure illness. Homeopathy, taken from the Greek words homeos, meaning “similar”, and pathos, meaning “suffering”, employs the concept that “like cures like”. A remedy is individually chosen for a person based on its capacity to cause, if given in an overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those the patient is experiencing.

Although research is divided in terms of measuring the effectiveness of homeopathy, studies have shown that homeopathic treatment has helped improve disease severity and quality of life for the long-term care of patients with chronic diseases. Some studies have shown positive effects by homeopathy on conditions such as bronchitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, premenstrual 48

When used as part of a treatment program for a variety of psychological and medical issues, research shows that hypnosis works. Pain relief is one of the most researched areas with hypnosis.

Studies have found that patients had considerable reductions in their ratings of pain, desire for pain relievers or sedation, nausea, vomiting and length of hospital stay. Hypnosis has been used with chronic pain issues, such as headaches, backaches, fibromyalgia, cancer-related pain and mixed chronic pain.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

WELLNESS INSTITUTE Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND Norwalk • 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE Adam Breiner, ND Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN Fairfield • 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

HYPNOTHERAPY

H

ypnotherapy encompasses a range of hypnosis techniques that allow practitioners to bypass the conscious mind and access the subconscious. The altered state that occurs under hypnosis has been compared to a state of deep meditation or transcendence, in which the innate recuperative abilities of the psyche are allowed to flow more freely.

The subject can achieve greater clarity regarding his or her own wants and needs, explore other events or periods of life that require resolution, or generally develop a more positive attitude.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

HEALING TREE WISDOM Thea Litsios Stratford • 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com

MEG REILLY 360 Meg Reilly, MS, CH Lower Fairfield County • 203-952-6272 MegReilly360.com

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx Stamford • 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

ROOTS RISING ALCHEMY Melissa Conroy, CHC 203-673-9491 RootsRisingAlchemy.com

INFRARED SAUNA

I

nfrared light—experienced as heat—is the invisible part of the sun’s spectrum with the ability to penetrate human tissue. Infrared sauna therapy uses this penetrating characteristic to heat the body directly at the core rather than simply warming the air or skin’s surface.

Unlike hot rock or steam saunas, the heat in the infrared sauna is effective at 100-150°F, a more comfortable operating temperature. The waves also heat the body directly without causing ambient air temperature to rise, aiding the body with its detoxifying process.

As compared to 3 percent with a traditional sauna, the infrared sauna can produce sweat composed of 20 percent toxins. The penetrating heat also helps increase circulation and oxygen flow,

in addition to boosting white blood cell production, which can lessen inflammation and ease pain.

A significant decrease in pain was one of the noted effects in one study of patients suffering from fibromyalgia and another about leg pain in peripheral arterial disease. Other studies have shown pain reduction effects with those dealing with autoimmune issues such as rheumatoid arthritis.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Cranial osteopathy is the art and science of applying touch and light pressure to the bones, tissues, and fluids of the head, spine, and sacrum.

This allows restoration of circulation of blood, lymph and cerebrospinal fluid, helping the body heal itself from injury and disease. Benefits of osteopathic treatment include pain relief, better sleep, improved sense of well-being, relaxation and mental clarity.

Stratford • 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

KURE SPA Norwalk • 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC

7E FIT SPA

Newtown • 800-723-2962 NortheastNatMed.com

Stamford and Norwalk • 203-356-5822 7eFitSpa.com

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI

MUKTINATH HOLISTIC CENTER Monroe • 203-518-5808 MuktinathHolisticCenter.com

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE Adam Breiner, ND Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN Fairfield • 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

WORDEN WELLNESS CENTER Thomas Worden, DC Danbury • 203-244-8801 WordenWellnessCenter.com

MASSAGE THERAPY

M

assage therapy is a general term for the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. It incorporates various disciplines and involves kneading, rubbing, brushing and tapping the muscles and connective tissues by hand or using mechanical devices. Its goal is to increase circulation and detoxification, in order to reduce physical and emotional stress and increase overall wellness.

A number of studies have shown that surgical patients who received massages reported reduced pain and anxiety both pre- and post-operation.

Among cancer patients studied, the therapy reduced their pain, anxiety and fatigue. Massage therapy has also been shown to help with headaches, low back pain, circulation, joint pain and many other conditions.

HEIDI GABOARDI, LMT Bethel and New Fairfield 203-241-2372 HeidiMDouglas@att.net

Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLMT.com

KERRIE MARCH, LMT AND JOHANNE ROUSSEAU-HOLT

David L. Johnston, DO Ridgefield • 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

PULSED MAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY (PEMF)

The Ruby Tree Woodbury • 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com

P

SABITA HOLISTIC CENTER Southport • 203-254-2633 SabitaHolisticCenter.com

SHALVA CLINIC Alexandra Mason, LMT Westport • 203-916-4600 ShalvaClinic.org

SUSI LAURA MASSAGE & WELLNESS Ridgefield and Redding 203-438-2900 (Ridgefield) 203-947-1599 (Redding) SusiLauraMassage.com

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER Mary Beth Johnston, LMT, RMT Ridgefield • 914-419-7961

EMF is a non-contact, non-invasive, non-pharmacological technology used to stimulate cellular charge in order to repair at a cellular level. The PEMF therapy device delivers natural pulsating electromagnetic fields to the body with the specific frequencies and intensities tailored to the person. Applicators include a full body mat, localized pad applicators and/or pinpointed probes. PEMF can recharge cells by increasing oxygenation, circulation, hydration and nutrient absorption as well as help with detoxification.

The technology has been shown to help with arthritis, neck and back pain, sciatica, sport injuries, post-operative healing, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Lyme disease and other conditions.

People who have pacemakers, are pregnant or are at risk for epileptic seizures should not use PEMF therapy.

KURE SPA

OSTEOPATHY

O

OSTEOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTER

steopathy uses generally accepted physical methods of diagnosis, with a strong emphasis on body mechanics and manipulative methods to detect and correct faulty structure and function, in order to restore the body’s natural healing capacities. Doctors of osteopathy are fully trained and licensed according to the same standards as medical doctors and receive additional extensive training in the body’s structure and functions.

Norwalk • 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

RESONATING WELLNESS Westport • 203-429-8841 ResonatingWellness.com

WELLNESS INSTITUTE Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND Norwalk • 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

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June 2017

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WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE

HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Adam Breiner, ND Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN Fairfield • 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Jessica C. Hunter Bridgeport • 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands.com

REIKI

M

eaning “universal life-force energy”, Reiki is a method of activating and balancing the life-force (qi or chi). Practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the body’s chakras (energy centers).

Various techniques can ease emotional and mental distress, heal chronic and acute physical problems, and achieve spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki can be a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses and others for whom the use of touch is essential and appropriate.

Due to the multi-layered complexity of studied healing practices such as Reiki, there is a debate as to how best to study integrative therapies. Randomized controlled trials and the current technological inability to document changes in the biofield present challenges. That being said, patients in a number of studies have indicated it can help reduce anxiety and pain, and improve relaxation, fatigue, depression and overall wellbeing. Reiki is now widely used in institutional settings such as hospitals and cancer centers.

ANGELIC HEALING CENTER FOR REIKI Gigi Benanti Norwalk • 203-852-1150 AngelHealReiki.com

CARRIE BRADY Equine-Assisted Reiki Possibilities Farm Wilton • 203-210-7484 PossibilitiesFarm.com

CT WELLNESS/CT COUNSELORS Sandy Hook • 203-270-9888 CTWellnessCollaborative.com

HOLISTIC HEAVEN Kerry Hardy, RN, HNB-BC, RMT, CCH 203-895-5134 HolisticHeavenWellness.com 50

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI & MASSAGE CENTER

old patterns and postures.

Rolfing has been shown to ease pain and chronic tension and stress, enhance neurological functioning, improve posture and restore flexibility.

CODY SMOLIK, LLC

Stratford • 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

Lower Fairfield County • 917-544-4412 Cody-Smolik-Rolf-SI.com

KINDRED SPIRITS CENTER

WELCOME TO GRAVITY

Redding • 203-938-3690 KindredSpiritsCenter.com

Yoni Hormadaly, LMT Ridgefield • 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com

MUKTINATH HOLISTIC CENTER Monroe • 203-518-5808 MuktinathHolisticCenter.com

RS HOLISTIC COUNSELING AND HEALING Rebecca Schoenewolf Danbury • 203-826-2558 RSHolisticServices.com

THE RUBY TREE Woodbury • 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com

THE SACRED SPIRIT Bobby Kitsios Old Greenwich • 203-344-9311 TheSacredSpirit.net

TOTAL LIFE CARE CENTER (TLC) Beth Leas Norwalk • 203-856-9566

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT / Turning Point Reiki, LLC Ridgefield • 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com

EMBODY THE SACRED Deana Paqua New Milford and Ridgefield 203-994-5045 • EmbodyTheSacred.net

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION

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hands-on technique for deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system (muscles and connective tissue called fascia) in order to restore the body’s natural alignment and sense of integration. The range and freedom of physical and emotional expression increases as the body is released from

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

WESTPORT ROLFING Westport and Fairfield Sachi: 203-216-9720 Mikel: 203-216-9770 WestportRolfing.com

VIBROSAUN

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ibrosaun—a heat/vibration therapy machine created in Australia and used for decades in Europe but newer to the U.S.— offers two modalities in one machine by providing a dry sauna heat as well as a padded vibrating bed.

A patient lies down on padded vibrating plates for 30 to 45 minutes, with their head sticking out, while the inside of the pod heats to high temperature.

Motors inside generate vibration, which helps alleviate pain in those with musculoskeletal injuries.

A study from Indiana UniversityPurdue University researchers in 2014 found that whole-body vibration exercise has the potential to help fibromyalgia patients reduce muscle spasticity and painful symptoms and improve quality of life. The whole-body vibrating machine’s vibrations transmit energy that forces the patient’s muscles to continuously contract and relax. The heat relaxes tension while vibrations stimulate the lymphatic system, helping the body to clear out cellular waste.

KURE SPA Norwalk • 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

YOGA

P

ractical application of the ancient Indian Vedic teachings. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj

which means “union” or “to join”, and refers to the joining of man’s physical, mental and spiritual elements. The goal of good techniques, including physical exercises called asanas (or postures), controlled breathing, relaxation, meditation, and diet and nutrition.

Quite a number of research studies have shown the long-lasting effect of practicing yoga on low-back pain.

Yoga has also helped cancer patients to improve their quality of life, manage cancer treatment side effects of treatment and reduce pain. Yoga was shown to reduce both physical and emotional symptoms of chronic pain in women suffering from fibromyalgia.

Vicki Sara Blumberg, m.D. “I believe the body heals itself with sound advice, listening with love, and proper self-care.”

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AH YOGA & WELLNESS CENTER New Milford and New Preston 860-868-6707 • AhYogaCenter.com

BASIL YOGA CENTER Ridgefield • 203-403-2280 BasilYoga.com

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER Stratford • 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

LIFEPATH YOGA & WELLNESS Norwalk 203-354-7070 • 914-393-9221 LifePathYoga.net

NAAM YOGA CONNECTICUT Bethel • 203-730-2400 NaamYogaCT.com.

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THE RUBY TREE Woodbury • 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS Washington Depot • 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

YOGA FOR EVERYBODY Fairfield • 203-254-YOGA (9642) Yoga4everybody.net

YOGI BRIAN Norwalk • 203-838-9644 YogiBrian.com

THE YOGA SHALA Ridgefield • 203-544-8811 TheYogashalaCT.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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Potential for Personal Transformation Vermont Retreat Center Fosters Deep Learning

by Gina McCaffrey

“S

uccessful personal transformation workshops depend on who presents them! We choose persons who contribute to our culture through the uniqueness of their persona, their artistry and contributions, their productivity and attitudes, their generosity and humanity, and especially their unconditional love for people in general; they are the forces that change our lives,” says professor A.H. Stone of The Learning Collaborative (TLC). “And, as we all learned in college, it’s best to select professors, not courses…if you want inspiration as well as learning.”

This insight has led to a new opportunity for personal transformation.

During the past 30 years, TLC, based in both Milford, Connecticut, and Benson, Vermont, has offered workshops in health and healing, integrated with the humanism of aesthetics and the arts. TLC is dedicated to promoting the spirit of learning, and opportunities for personal transformation through its workshops, special programs and vibrant learning landscapes. They feature experiences based on interactions with unique personalities who pursue innovative approaches in their field of expertise and who bring new enthusiasm to self-discovery. These individuals share authentic feelings and their own acts of personal change; each provides a special entry point for undertaking interest in new subject matter that

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arises from intensity, intuition, insight, persistence and good will.

Historically, these workshops might have been found in Syracusa, the ancient Greek city known as the mecca for cultural development. Each workshop is steeped in the values inherent in shared learning, with presenters coming from humble, authentic spaces. Together, these thinkers reflect an understanding of living as experience being the authentic driver of life. Interactions with them provide both a renewed impetus for daily learning and an accelerated opportunity for enquiry, discovery and transformation.

Now the workshops are available at the new Center for Eco-Agriculture, Aesthetics, and Human Development at Stone Spirit Farm in Benson, Vermont, where visitors may experience deep learning on 500 acres of beautiful fields and forests. The center creates opportunities for spirit-based learning to enable understandings, insights and artistry to emerge in daily practice. The workshops have meaning to learners through authentic personas offering interactions that express valued goals, are content-rich, and promise new and synchronous visions. The workshops are steeped in a unique persona, and are rich in mentor-based perspectives for unique ways of being. The intent is to offer authentic, transparent and functional learning experiences that align

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

with each participant’s desired development, the creation of meaning, and the evolution of one’s own persona.

Built on 50 years of personal transformation program designs, the experiences ground cultural development, social sustainability, environmental common sense, and the improvement of life quality. Participants fashion their personal meaning, discover reliable pathways and behaviors for change, and re-establish viable life standards. Small-group dialogues engage participants in clarifying their goals and organizing approaches to transformation. By considering disparate ideas of others who live their truth by learning in community, new and powerful language is created that is useful in understanding self, re-framing thinking and establishing new courses of action. By reframing internal language, with outside guidance, participants test their ideas shared in safe environments. Engagement in a community of generosity and spirit helps to generate insights within a framework congruent with one’s own transformation. Sharing intuitions and heart-felt emotions in a community of free spirit promotes constructive assessment of ideas, new levels of creativity, and multiple ways of expressing ideas and insights. Developing confidence through positive dialogue also establishes trust in one’s own ideas.

Perhaps most important is the change in consciousness that may be experienced in these workshops.

Becoming aware of what you want, and how to achieve it, leads to establishing the new patterns and behaviors that you seek. In addition, tools are available that enable you to sustain these patterns for lifelong improvements that you chart in accord with your own values.

The opportunity for personal growth and transformation with authentic personas and genuine learners facilitates authentic, efficient, sincere and humane learning experiences.

The center offers these workshops on a recurring basis, next sessions beginning in the summer of 2017.

For the schedule of workshops, more information and registration, visit LearningCollaborative.net or StoneSpiritFarm.com. See ad, page 3.

EpicStockMedia/Shutterstock.com

inspiration

On Fatherhood The Lifelong Lessons of Being a Dad

by Ben Greenman

W

hat is being a father? It’s, at least in part, about beginning. It is rejuvenating to locate ourself near the start of a child’s life. There are so many chances to get it right. The thought that we might also get it wrong flits across our mind, but it’s gone before we can even shiver at its presence. It’s also about returning to that question again and again, each time failing to acquire additional insight.

“What isn’t being a father?” is a better question. Being a father isn’t indifference, but neither is it a steady stream of calm wisdom or a place of consistent self-control or a clearly delineated set of exercises engineered to help produce self-knowledge in offspring. Bridges are engineered. We

stare into our little one’s eyes, beaming thoughts that we hope are received, translated and appreciated, waiting for a beam to come back to us. Child rearing is worked toward, clumsily, imperfectly, with a deep and near religious faith in trial and error. Children are refined over time with the assistance of many imperfect philosophies.

When our second child opted in, my wife and I compared baby pictures of the two boys. “They look different,” I said.

“That’s not why I’m looking at them,” she said. “I want to remember this.” I remember looking at the pictures with her only because she has told me about it.

If, in part, fatherhood is remembering things that did not exactly happen, it is also forgetting things that

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did happen, some transformative to a degree that I could not have imagined five seconds before they occurred.

Afterwards, I knew I would never be the same again. But I was.

As children grow, they are not the same again. Parenting boys instead of babies is already a grand departure from everything I have learned up until now and I am just coming to see that it will always be this way. Recently, in trying to figure out when a man that is not a father becomes a man that is a father, I remarked to my sons, “Even though I know being a father has changed me forever, I remember certain things that happened, but not as many as I would have thought.”

My older son explained, “Maybe it’s because you are thinking of us more than yourself. Maybe you want time to pass so we can get to the next thing in our lives.”

My younger son zeroed in, “The problem is that you think it’s parenting when really it’s childing.”

He’s right. What is being a father?

It’s letting someone else be a child.

It’s suffering through certain kinds of abstract pain so that they don’t. It’s bearing the brunt of disappointments so that they can go on feeling invincible.

It’s teaching how to forget as much as it is teaching how to remember… but it is still very near the beginning.

Ben Greenman is a widely published author and journalist in Greater New York. Connect at BGreenman.com.

We treat the following conditions: ADHD / ADD / Executive Functioning Anxiety & Anxiety-Related Disorders Autism Behavioral & Social Issues Chronic Pain / Fibromyalgia Concussion / TBI Depression / Mood Issues Learning Disability / Dyslexia Lyme, PANDAS/PANS Chronic Health Conditions PTSD / Trauma Seizures Sleep Problems eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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naturallyhealthypet Celebrating Love of Animals at Catherine’s Butterfly Party The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

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n June 3 from noon to 4pm, the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary will host its third annual Catherine’s Butterfly Party event in Newtown.

This free family-focused festival and pet adoption event features fun activities for adults and kids, including face painting, games, crafts, vendors, food trucks and live music by LaFrance Acoustic. Special guests at the event include The Dogist, Susie’s Senior Dogs and Sophie Gamand. Nature and educational exhibits offered include Animal Embassy, Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens, Audubon at Bent of the River, Horizon Wings Birds of Prey Demonstration, K-9 demonstrations, The Exceptional Pet Dog Training, “Bee Kind” and CT SART.

On December 14, 2012, when a gunman entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and took the lives of 20 innocent children and six adults, one of the victims was Catherine Violet Hubbard. Catherine will always be remembered for her love of all animals.

Every year, Catherine asked for a birthday party that would bring all of her favorite animals together; Catherine’s Butterfly Party is that wish continuing to be fulfilled.

For more information about the animal rescue agencies, the nature and educational exhibits that will be at this year’s event, and the sponsors, visit CVHFoundation.org/ 3rd-Annual-Catherines-Butterfly-Party/ or Facebook.com/CatherineVioletHubbard AnimalSanctuary/. Location: Fairfield Hills Campus, 3 Primrose St, Newtown.

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

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

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Rescuing Animals One at a Time in Redding

T

he Sleepy Pig Farm, created by Redding residents Tiffany Paltauf and Joe Bonitatebus, has opened as a safe haven for animals. The farm is beginning with a current group of two pet pigs and several ducklings; the goal is to become an animal sanctuary in the future.

Especially as the farm continues to rescue animals, Paltauf and Bonitatebus will be looking for volunteers to help with care for the animals and the farm. Come June 3 to volunteer to build the fence for the new area for the pigs. Upcoming plans include adding on more pens to hold more animals.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/SleepyPigFarm. Location: Sleepy Pig Farm, 579 Redding Rd, Redding.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

affected body part is touched, bumped or moved about, which may spur aggressive behavior, so show tender care and respect. Relief typically comes when the pet rests the affected part.

naturalpet

Calcarea carbonica Chendongshan/Shutterstock.com

This remedy may ease deeply aching arthritis, particularly if bony or fibrous tissue has formed around joints. Avoid cold and dampness. Signs alerting a veterinarian to the problem may include muscle weakness, fatigue from exertion and a feeling of chilliness or sluggishness (these pets may also be hypothyroid).

Kali carbonicum

Homeopathy for Joint Injury and Pain Six Remedies for Relief

by Shawn Messonnier

J

oint disease, specifically arthritis, is a common problem in dogs and cats, especially as they age. The causes are many and include obesity, inflammation, immune dysfunction and normal wear and tear in joints. Conventional therapies include steroids, non-steroidal medications, analgesic medications to control pain and surgery, when applicable.

Clinical signs of arthritis include joint stiffness, pain, difficulty getting up and down, a pet’s decreased desire to walk or exercise and increased aggression due to pain. Keep in mind that other causes may be misdiagnosed as “arthritis”, but are related to another disease.

Many natural therapies for joint disease include acupuncture, chiropractic, cold laser treatment, physical therapy, Chinese and Western herbal therapies, nutrition and diet, homotoxicology and homeopathy. Several key homeopathic remedies recommended for human relief in osteoarthritic knee, hip

and finger joints by Dr. Vikas Sharma, of Chandigarh, India, may also be helpful for pets with joint injury and pain, according to The Arthritis Solution for Dogs & Cats (PetCareNaturally. com). Consult a holistic veterinarian for individual treatment options.

Arnica This is a mainstay of homeopathy, as noted in the New World Veterinary Repertory, and applies to anything related to bones and joints. It is useful for chronic arthritis, especially if the painful parts of the body seem to worsen when moved or touched.

Bryonia Alba It’s especially helpful for pets showing signs of stiffness and inflammation with pain made worse as the pet moves, especially when rising and lying down. Offset cold dry weather with warmth and humidification.

Discomfort is aggravated when the

Pets with advanced arthritis showing joints that are thickened or deformed may benefit from kali. Stiffness and pain are typically worse in the morning from cold, damp weather, so that’s an ideal time for applying prescribed treatment.

Rhus toxicodendron This is useful for many arthritic pets and especially those with rheumatoid arthritis, which is rare. The remedy is also beneficial for pets that start the day stiff and in pain, but improve with continued movement. Protect them from cold, wet weather conditions.

Ruta graveolens Another widely recognized arthritis remedy, ruta grav is for pets whose symptoms may be exacerbated by cold and damp and exertion. It may be prescribed for affected and damaged tendons and capsules of the joints, when arthritis may have developed from overuse, repeated wear and tear and associated chronic inflammation.

The practice of functional medicine teaches combinations of complementary therapies suited to the individual pet’s needs. Homeopathics can be a beneficial element in treating animals suffering from a variety of joint disorders.

Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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ence lies in the variety. Hemp has been used historically in the manufacturing sector to make rope and textiles, while marijuana was bred for the intoxicating resinous glands that grow on the flowers and leaves.

Three Key Differences between Hemp and Marijuana

Marijuana Use for Pets?

CBD Products Offer Safe, Legal Options

by Mary Oquendo

T

he human medical field is finally legitimizing the use of medical marijuana to treat chronic illnesses and disease. More and more states have programs authorizing medical marijuana dispensaries for specific medical and palliative purposes. Has this same approach been taken with pets experiencing some of the same painful and chronic ailments?

As of now, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has not yet taken an official stand; however, it

is under “discussion”. For the most part, it is a moot point as veterinarians cannot legally prescribe medical marijuana because marijuana is still classified as a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The goods news for suffering pet owners is there is a viable alternative that is readily available with an industry already created. Hemp is the same plant species as marijuana; they are both Cannabis sativa L. The differ-

1. Hemp contains very little of the THC psychoactive chemical.

Hemp contains only trace amounts of the psychoactive component of the plant. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is responsible for the psychological effects of marijuana, hence the Scheduled 1 Controlled Substance labeling from the DEA.

While THC has many medical benefits, it is not the only part of the plant that does. Both marijuana and hemp also produce CBD, or cannabidiol.

CBD binds to a body’s endocannabinoid system through the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in every tissue. This system is connected to the brain, central nervous and peripheral systems; it maintains homeostasis within the body and is involved in neural activity, pain, memory, emotions, carcinogenesis and embryonic development.

Since these binders are found throughout the body, that accounts for the wide range of therapeutic properties and potential benefits. The medical benefits of CBD include help with conditions ranging from seizures to diabetes to pain management to arthritis to cancer. Dogs have the highest concentration of CB receptors of any mammal, which is why dogs are more sensitive to the effects of both THC and CBD. 2. Hemp is legal.

CBD is currently made into treats, oils, topical creams and capsules. But not all CBD products are created equally. As with any new booming market, some companies looking to cash in by producing it as cheaply as possible. They use industrial-grade hemp, grown for quantity using factory farming, including pesticides and fertilizers. On the other hand, there are companies dedicated to the well-being of ourselves and our pets that grow the plants organically and spend thousands on research

56

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

and development of different strains to pinpoint specific chronic conditions.

“This is a growing, fluid field. There have been great strides in developing particular strains of hemp for specific ailments. Many varieties of hemp are like a fine wine. You can pair a precise strain to the corresponding condition.

Or you can choose to go with a ripple.

Your choice,” says Donna Walker, RVT, of South Bark in San Diego, California.

CBD products can be purchased online and in stores; they can be legally and safely transported across state lines. Buyers beware, however, as the pet industry is not well-regulated. It is imperative to research the companies to ensure we are getting what we pay for.

3. Toxicity.

While both the live plants of hemp and marijuana are toxic to dogs and cats in any form, CBD derived from hemp is safe. Dosing is done based on the pet’s weight. THC from medical marijuana can accelerate a pet’s heart rate to a dangerous level; it should never be used without veterinary consultation.

As with any substance, any pet can

have an allergic response and go into anaphylactic shock. While a pet can overdose from medical marijuana, that is not the case with CBD.

“Despite the fact that dogs and cats have a more rapid digestive system, it still takes about an hour after eating to fully work. Be prepared for that so you do not give too much. This applies to yourself also if you medicate with CBD. The side effects of over medicating are simply sleepiness,” explains Walker.

We may never need to wait until the AVMA or the states to decide on the

legalities on medical marijuana as long as CBD is available for our pets. Even though the cost of obtaining a quality product may seem high, it is a small price to pay to help manage our pet’s chronic or painful medical conditions.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor.

She is the owner of Hands and Paws Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 56.

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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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 PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com • BullyBreedRescueInc.org COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION/ PET SITTING

LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC

GWEN GANGI

25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org

Gwen Gangi has been an animal communicator all her life and has been doing consultations for the past 23 years. Practical for any situation, you enter into a 3-way conversation to get and give information needed.

Consultations done over the phone or in person, including home visits.Workshops on animal communication available.

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 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 lowcost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 57.

Fur to Feathers Pet Services Monroe • 203-610-2444 (call or text) FurToFeathersPets@gmail.com FurToFeathers.com

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org

VETERINARY SERVICES

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING MARY OQUENDO

203-994-5308 Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com MaryOquendo.com

NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org

Pet grooming in a relaxed one-on-one environment in your driveway by a leader in the holistic grooming industry. Mary also offers Reiki and crystal therapy for your beloved pets.

See ad, page 56.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 PetProtectorsRescue.org RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

A spacious fully air-conditioned and heated facility outfitted for the safety and comfort of your dog with two fully-supervised outdoor play yards, securely fenced for running, playtime, and socialization with other dogs.

OVERNIGHT BOARDING Slumber party style with a staff member present TRAINING CLASSES Puppy Kindergarten, Basic and Advanced Obedience classes LIVE WEBCAMS! Watch your dog from anywhere on your computer, iPad or iPhone.

860-799-7979 90-B Danbury Road, New Milford, CT 06776 info@UnleashedDaycare.com www.UnleashedDaycare.com New Milford area’s only cage-free dog daycare and boarding facility! natural awakenings

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Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks. Thank you!

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A D est ina tio n Fo r Pe opl e W ho L ove Fo eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

od 59

greenliving

Green Car Buying Tips Fuel Economy Plus Sales Incentives Equal Big Savings

by Jim Motavalli

W

hile some carmakers are filling showrooms with everlarger gas-guzzling sport utility vehicles (SUV) thanks to lower gas prices, some car buyers want to do just the opposite and go greener with their wheels. Fortunately, more eco-friendly options exist than ever before—many of which come with surprising personal benefits in addition to a cleaner, greener planet.

The green share of the U.S. auto market, combining battery electrics, hybrids and plug-in hybrids, peaked at 3.8 percent in 2013, according to the Automotive News Data Center. Despite a record 59 models available now, the share was just 2.87 percent in 2016.

As Millennials—the generation that could be buying 40 percent of all new vehicles by 2020—fully emerge into the marketplace, eco-car numbers could zoom, although some think it’s possible they’ll by shunning car purchases for car-sharing services.

“The market has continued to shift to crossovers and big SUVs, and there aren’t many hybrid models available in those categories,” says Sam 60

Abuelsamid, senior research analyst at Navigant Research. “We expect that to change in the next couple of years, when vehicles like the hybrid Ford Explorer reach the public.” Navigant projects only 3.4 percent annual compounded growth in hybrid sales by 2025, but a much more robust 31 percent rise in battery-run electrics.

“Conventional hybrids without a plug no longer have the halo they once had,” says Bradley Berman, founder of HybridCars.com. “The cutting edge has moved to electric cars with ever-bigger battery packs and longer electric range. With gas prices at relatively low levels, the green car market remains a small niche.”

Getting a Green Bargain

Many of the greener choices are now a tremendous bargain for consumers. The federal government currently offers a tax credit of up to $4,500 for electrified vehicles, and many states kick in with added subsidies. Highlights include maximums available for electric vehicles (EV) with big batteries: California, $1,500 in rebates, plus single-occupant use of the

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

high-occupancy vehicle lanes; Colorado, $5,000; Connecticut, $3,000; Delaware, $2,200; Maryland, $3,000; Massachusetts, $2,500; Michigan, $2,500; Pennsylvania, $2,000; Rhode Island, $2,500; Texas, $2,500; and Utah, $750.

The Prius Prime is a prime example of the savings available. The acclaimed plug-in hybrid, with an electric range of 25 miles, starts at $27,100, before subsidies (starting prices are before destination costs). In California, it would be $21,100. This means this well-equipped plug-in hybrid is, for state purchasers, approximately $3,585 less than a base Prius liftback hybrid ($24,685). It’s a buyer’s market for green cars, as manufacturers incentivize them to meet federal and California fuel economy averages. Buyers are encouraged to act now before subsidies disappear.

Hyundai is taking an interesting approach with its green Ioniq line, offering, beginning this year, affordable battery electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the same midsized car platform. “This is about freedom for the customer—they can choose the level of electrification that fits them,” says Mike O’Brien, Hyundai vice president of corporate and product planning.

Great Green Choices

Here are some more good choices.

Chevrolet Bolt

Battery electric: Chevrolet Bolt

With the Bolt—GM’s first battery electric since the EV1—the buyer can get from zero to 60 miles per hour (mph) in 6.5 seconds from its 200-horsepower motor plus attain 238 miles of range from its huge, 60-kilowatt-hour battery, winning it 2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year, Green Car Journal’s 2017 Green Car of the Year and 2017 North American Car of the Year from a jury of automotive journalists. Prices start at $36,620, but subsidies can top $10,000.

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Audi A3 e-tron

Plug-in hybrid: Audi A3 e-tron

The power (204 horsepower) and zeroto-60 mph time capability is similar to the Bolt, but the A3 offers a more sumptuous cabin and Audi’s celebrated driving dynamics. The electric range is a mere 16 miles, but 380 miles total using the 1.4-liter, four-cylinder gas engine. Prices start at $38,900, but it qualifies for a $4,500 federal tax credit and some state subsidies, too.

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Toyota Highlander

Hybrid car: Toyota Highlander

Mildly updated for 2017, the Highlander is the only three-row hybrid SUV currently available, making it worth considering. Good news includes a power increase in the 3.5-liter V-6 (to 306 horsepower), although there’s a small fueleconomy penalty. The hybrid is rated at 30 miles per gallon in the city, 28 highway and 29 combined. The bottom line cost starts at $36,270 without subsidies.

Other worthy cars: The fuel cellpowered Honda Clarity, Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Tucson (for southern Californians); any of the Ioniqs; the versatile plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt; and the quick BMW i3 and i8 and Tesla Model S if the budget allows.

Jim Motavalli is an author, freelance journalist and speaker specializing in clean automotive and other environmental topics. He lives in Fairfield.

Connect at JimMotavalli.com.

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June 2017

61

INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtable Brewing a Bigger Deal with New Coffee Bar

A

lready known for its premium organic coffee roaster, Ed Freedman has taken his Shearwater brand to the next level by opening up the Shearwater Coffee Bar in a downtown Fairfield location. While concocting pour-over coffee, lattes and cappuccinos, highly trained baristas can converse with customers about the different coffee roast profiles, brewing techniques and coffee selections. Freedman has chosen Jason Varga, who has worked for Espresso Neat and Tusk & Cup Fine Coffee, to manage Shearwater Coffee Bar.

Food and tea items are being brought in from Huckleberries Artisan Pastries, The Bee and the Bar, and Leaf & Ardor, among others. A retail selection will offer its USDA-certified organic and fair-trade coffee beans as well as equipment, such as grinders, French presses and pour-overs. A June opening is planned but a specific date has not yet been set as of press time.

For more information, visit shearwatercoffeeroasters.com. Location: 1215 Post Rd, Fairfield.

Dinner under the Stars with CT NOFA

O

n June 10 from 5 to 10pm, the Connecticut Chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (CT NOFA) will host its Farm Fling & Awards Dinner in Northford. The organicthemed evening will take place at the Heritage Homestead, a private family farm estate situated on the rolling hills of 3B Ranch in Northford, will offer attendees a farm dinner under the stars to benefit the CT NOFA.

The meal, sponsored by Bourassa Catering in Wallingford, features a seasonally-aware, locally-sourced menu that will include fine meats all sustainably-raised at 3B Ranch. Tours of the farm, live music, silent auctions and the presentation of this year’s Organic Leadership Award will all be part of the festivities. Proceeds from the event will go toward CT NOFA’s mission of ensuring the growth and viability of organic agriculture, food and land care in Connecticut.

The fee is $125 per person, six tickets for $625, or a table for 10 for $100 a person.

CT NOFA is a growing community of farmers, gardeners, land care professionals, businesses and consumers that encourages a healthy relationship to the natural world. They have promoted local and organic agriculture since 1982.

For more information, visit CTNOFA.org. Location: 3B Ranch, 66 Lanes Pond Rd, Northford.

Food Truck Show in New Milford

L

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 62

ocal food trucks will be bringing their best—including Latin fusion, vegetarian and gluten-free options—to New Milford High School’s inaugural Food Truck Festival & Car Show on June 10.

The suggested donation for the New Milford event, which will be held from 11am to 6pm, is $2. The fundraiser will benefit student activities at New Milford High School. The event features more than 10 food trucks, over 50 cars, a people’s choice award and prize, kids activities (inflatables, face painting and more), and sampling and shopping with local vendors. The event sponsors include Conway Hardwood Products and the Law Office of Katherine Webster-O’Keefe, LLC. For more information, visit Facebook.com/Events/740058276169427. Location: New Milford High School, 388 Danbury Rd, New Milford.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

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

Clarity for Expiration Dates on Food

SpeedKingz/Shutterstock.com

Many Americans have been confused by the “Sell By” labels on groceries for 40 years. Now, the Food Marketing Institute and the Grocery Manufacturers Association, the two largest industry trade groups, are adopting voluntary standardized regulations to clarify.

Instead of using up to 10 different phrases to communicate safety, they have settled on just two: “Use By”, a safety designation to indicate when perishable foods are no longer good; and “Best if Used By”, an estimate of when the manufacturer thinks the product should be consumed for peak flavor.

Studies show that consumers generally believe the current labels all signal whether a product is safe to eat, and that it will still be okay well after its so-called expiration date. At the same time, prematurely tossed groceries dominate landfills and produce greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and a coalition of environmental groups have been urging the industry to clear this up. The change is scheduled to take hold in July 2018.

Mock Meats

Vegetarian Protein Options on the Rise Last year, the United Nations International Year of Pulses recognized dry peas, lentils and chickpeas because they are affordable, nutritious and have a low ecofootprint. New, innovative, plant-based proteins will extend the options.

The Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition reported that vegetarians can save at least $750 annually over meat eaters by reducing or replacing consumption of animal products and switching to sources that adhere to higher animal welfare standards.

The Impossible Burger simulates the sizzle, the smell and the juicy first bite of the real thing to rave reviews. The similar Beyond Burger is a hit at Whole Foods Markets.

Tyson Foods is investing in the protein alternative company, Beyond Meat, and launching a $150 million venture capital fund to support plant-based foods. Some large German meat producers are also seeking to diversify with plant-based versions of traditional meaty favorites.

Pat_Hastings/Shutterstock.com

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June 2017

63

nioloxs/Shutterstock.com

consciouseating

carbohydrates.

Con: Almond milk is neither high in protein nor calcium; it’s not as nutritionally packed as other alternatives.

Some might not care for the faint nutty flavor.

Coconut Milk

Milk Minus the Moo

Evaluating Alternatives to Dairy

by Judith Fertig

W

hen dietary concerns, food sensitivities or curiosity prompt us to try alternative milks, it helps to know the basic facts about the leading types, to choose the best ones for us.

Almond Milk

Pro: Almond milk is low in fat and can be easily made at home, so ingredients

are known. One cup of homemade almond milk has about 40 calories, one gram of protein, 6 percent of the daily value (DV) for calcium, three grams of fat and eight grams of carbohydrates.

As for store-bought options, one cup of Silk Organic Almond Original contains 60 calories, with one gram of protein, 10 percent DV for calcium, two-anda-half grams of fat and eight grams of

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

Pro: Dr. Josh Axe, a functional medicine physician who owns the popular natural health website, DrAxe.com, and the Exodus Health Center, near Nashville, Tennessee, points out, “High in medium-chain triglycerides, coconut milk is a very filling, fatburning food.” One cup of homemade coconut milk has about 450 calories, six grams of protein and 64 grams of fat, plus trace minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and copper. Canned coconut milk is similar: one cup of Native Forest Unsweetened Coconut Milk Classic contains 420 calories, three grams of protein and 45 grams of fat, plus trace minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and copper in each cup.

Con: High in fat and calories, coconut milk may not be the best choice for drinking every day, but is delicious in Asian-style soups and curries.

Hemp Milk

Pro: Hemp milk, made from hulled hemp seeds, contains 10 essential amino acids, including key fats. “Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are vital for healthy functioning of the brain,” says Axe. Hemp milk works well for people with tree nut allergies.

One cup of Pacific Hemp Original has 140 calories, three grams of protein, 50 percent DV for calcium, five grams of fat and 20 grams of carbohydrates. Living Harvest Tempt Hemp Milk has 80 calories per cup, two grams of protein, 30 percent DV for calcium, eight grams of fat and one gram of carbohydrates.

Con: Grassy-tasting hemp milk tends to separate in hot coffee.

Rice Milk

Pro: High in vitamins and calcium when fortified, rice milk made from brown rice is also high in vitamins.

According to Ted Kallmyer, author of

DIY Milks With fresh ingredients, a high-speed blender and a reusable nut milk bag or strainer, we can make our own alternative milk in minutes at home.

Looker_Studio/Shutterstock.com

Flexible Dieting, in Bend, Oregon, rice milk is the least likely alternative milk to trigger an allergy.

One cup of Pacific Rice Milk has 130 calories, one gram of protein, 30 percent DV for calcium, two grams of fat and 37 grams of carbohydrates.

One cup of Rice Dream Organic Rice Drink has 120 calories, one gram of protein, 30 percent DV for calcium, 2.5 grams of fat and 23 grams of carbohydrates.

Con: Low in fat and protein, it’s also relatively high in carbohydrates. It has a less creamy texture than hemp, coconut or soy milks.

Coconut Milk Yields: About 3 cups 2 cups hot water 1 cup fresh organic, unsweetened, shredded coconut

Soy Milk

Place hot water, and then shredded coconut, in a high-speed blender, starting on low speed and increasing to high for a total of three minutes.

Almond Milk Yields: About 4 cups

Strain the coconut milk through a nut milk bag into a container.

1 cup raw, unsalted organic whole almonds ½ tsp sea salt 4 cups pure filtered water Sea salt, stevia, agave nectar, honey, a date, vanilla bean or lemon juice

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Soak the almonds in salted water for at least 12 hours before blending.

Using a high-powered blender, start blending on low and increase to high to reach a smooth milk consistency.

Strain through a nut milk bag to remove any almond skin or pieces.

Optional: Add a preferred flavoring.

HandmadePictures/Shutterstock.com

Pro: Soy milk provides more protein than other alternative milks. Look for a calcium-fortified, organic brand that doesn’t contain the thickening agent carrageenan, suggests Dr. Andrew Weil, founding director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, in Tucson.

Different brands have different nutritional components. For example, one cup of Organic Valley Soy Original has 100 calories per cup, with seven grams of protein, 30 percent DV for calcium, three grams of fat and 11 grams of carbohydrates. One cup of Organic EdenSoy Extra Original Soymilk contains 130 calories, with 11 grams of protein, 20 percent DV for calcium, four grams of fat and 13 grams of carbohydrates.

Con: Some people might not like the thick texture and soy aftertaste. Dr. Frank Lipman, founder and director of Eleven Eleven Wellness Center, in New York City, says that limiting soy is a good idea due to soy’s prevalent pesticide saturation and its researched links to thyroid, endocrine system and sex hormone dysfunction (Tinyurl.com/ SoyDarksideStudies). If soy is eaten, “Choose certified organic, soy products—preferably fermented versions like miso, natto and tempeh—with the Non-GMO Project seal; and do so sparingly, no more than twice a week,” advises Lipman.

Pour into a container and store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com). eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition naturalinawakenings

calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by June 12 (for July issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

SUNDAY, JUNE 4

Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info.

Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com.

Sense and See Your Body’s Energy and Heal – 1-3pm. With Joan Carra. Learn techniques to feel and evaluate your energy body, send out life force energy and create harmony and health to heal. $40.

Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 Shelton Farmers Market — 9am-1pm. Our producer-only market vendors sell local fresh veggies, meats, baked goods, cheese, eggs, wine, handmade items, dog treats and more. Free. The Farmers Market Building, 100 Canal St, Shelton.

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop — 9:30am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125.

Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Spiritual Psychic And Healing Fair – Noon-5pm.

Gifted readers and healers available for appointments. 30 or 60 minutes, $45+, Reiki healing sessions also available, $30. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311. Info@AlbertsonChurch. org. AlbertsonChurch.org .

markyourcalendar The Liphe Balance Center Presents…

June 14 • Bhakti Center NY Conversation on Life and Death with Henry Fersko Weiss and Ghandysa.

Donation only Gene Ang - Spoon Bending June 22 • $75 Tibetan Bowls Meditation Bowls placed on Chakras for healing and meditation June 28 • $40 Channeled Grace Healing World Peace Meditation, Mysticism Discussion and Book Signing!

July 11 • 7-8:30pm • $20 exchange RSVP/Details: Call: 203-912-2791 Email: LipheBalance@gmail.com Visit: LipheBalance.com Liphe Balance Center, Weston

Yoga On The Ball - Yogic Fun With a Stability Ball – 1-3pm. With Karen Pierce, professional yoga therapist. Explore yoga-based poses done using a stability ball to help you improve balance and flexibility. $32/by 6/3; $40/day of. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpaceCT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 Horse Wisdom Circle – 6:30-8pm. Come experience what horses have to teach at the full moon Horse Wisdom Circle. Sit quietly together and enjoy the horses’ presence, peace and energy in a serene, wooded setting. Pre-registration is required. $22.

Possibilities Farm, Wilton. 203-210-7484. PossibilitiesFarm@gmail.com. PossibilitiesFarm.com.

Empathy for the Empath: Monthly Support Group for Empathic Individuals – 7-9pm. Support group provides a safe, compassionate and constructive environment for Empaths to be able to express themselves, support and assist each other. $25/preregistration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Shamanic Intuitive Healing Journey Circle – 7:30-10pm. In-depth shamanic circles for those who have experience in the Shamanic Journey and wish to further those skills. Intuitive and healing work for the self and interactive work with others is incorporated. $40, pre-registration required. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com.

HunterHealingHands.com.

Real Men Can Do Yoga! – 2-4pm. With Terri and Ward Jennings. Learn how a regular yoga practice can complement your other sports and activities and help you feel great in your body. Workshop will include instruction in yoga postures; an open discussion and question and answer session and refreshments with a certified yoga instructor. $28/ pre-registered by 6/9, $35/day of. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

Self-Defense Workshop – 3-4:30pm. With June Fagan, 4th degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate.

Learn simple, practical and effective techniques for self-protection. $25/person; $75/family of four or more. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT. com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Full Moon Celebration – 7:30-8:45pm. With Regina Snyder. The full moon celebration brings your mental, emotional and physical bodies into balance.

Let go of unhealthy patterns and send healing to places in need, opening yourself to receive Divine Love. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11 Look Good, Feel Better Day – 11am-4pm. Health fair to learn, experience and celebrate healthy living and local business. Featuring Nova Health Spa, Naturopathic Dr. Nicole Klughers, nutrition, herbal medicine, local farms, juice bar, thermography, acupuncture, Whole Body Vibration, handcrafted healing jewelry, live music, demonstrations, workshops, samples and more. Free. Nova Spa, 1845 Silas Deane Hwy, Rocky Hill. 860-257-1004. VisWellnessCenter@gmail.com. NovaSpaRockyHill.com.

markyourcalendar Empowering Women Through Integrative Wellness Tuesday, June 20 • 6:30pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 10 Sweat to Bliss with Luke Ketterhagen – 1:304:30pm. With Luke, senior teacher in the Himalayan Tradition. Workshop will be a balanced class of vigorous asana, awakening pranayama, deep relaxation and guided meditation to draw the mind inward and experience the bliss of the heart. $45/YTA members; $65/non-members in advance; $55/$75 at the door.

The Yoga Studio at Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor. 914-582-7816. YTAPresident@ gmail.com. YTAYoga.com.

Beginning on a journey to healing is not an easy undertaking and doing it alone can be difficult. National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) in Fairfield County is presenting a team of expert panelists to discuss ways to achieve restorative health.

Esteemed panelists: Carrie Brady, JD, MA; Dr. Mara Davidson, ND, MS, MBA; Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, RN; and Dr. Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC $10 registration fee for members and guests.

Walk-ins are welcome.

Pequot Library, 720 Pequot Ave, Southport For more information, call 347-437-0270, email JCCavanaugh@BoardRoomGolf.com or visit NAPW.com/Chapters/ Fairfield-County-Chapter.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

June 2017

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calendarofevents Monthly Mystical Market – 11am-4pm. Psychics, mediums, intuitives, CT artisans, vendors and holistic practitioners. Free admission, vendors prices vary. The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St South, Woodbury.

203-586-1655. Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com.

TheRubyTreeCT.com.

MONDAY, JUNE 12 Move Your Stuff Change Your Life – 7-9pm. Meet Karen Rauch Carter, author of bestselling Feng Shui book Move Your Stuff Change Your Life. An opportunity to ask questions and increase your Feng Shui knowledge. $25. The Family Room, 31 Cherry St, Milford. 203-260-7770. FengShuiJoansWay@ gmail.com. FengShuiJoansWay.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 Wise Woman Wednesday: Plant-Based Tie Dye – 6:30-8:30pm. Explore the basics of plant based tie dye. Learn the history and traditional uses of herbs as dyes, as well as how to use some. Make your own herbal-dyed square piece of cloth to take home. $25/pre-registration; $30/at the door. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 203-460-2854. BekahTwinStar@gmail. com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 Intro to Aromatherapy – 1-4pm. Participants will learn about essential oil safety, how essential oils are produced, what high quality oils smell like, how aromatics affect our being, and common methods for healing and personal use. $63. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-3137883. TwinStarHerbs@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe. com/Events.

Summer Solstice Shamanic Ceremony – 7:309:30pm. Join us in sacred shamanic ceremony to honor a turn in the wheel of the year - the Summer Solstice. Extra drums and rattles provided. Plus snacks and beverages. $40/preregistration required.

Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport.

203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com.

HunterHealingHands.com.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20 Health Talks-Migraines & Headaches – 7-8pm.

Please join us at Ingels Family Health for a discussion on Migraines and Headaches led by Dr. Mark Sanders. Please RSVP, seating is limited.

Free. Ingels Family Health, 22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield. 203-254-9957. Info@DarinIngelsND.com.

DarinIngelsND.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 Synergy, The Ancient Crystal Skull – 7-9pm.

With Sherry Whitfield, the guardian of Synergy.

Hear entertaining stories and insights about the history of this crystal skull and some of its journeys.

You will learn about its origins, stories of healing and amazing experiences with Native tribes and shamans from across the globe. $40/preregistration required. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-994-5045. Deana.Paqua@gmail. com. EmbodyTheSacred.net.

THURSDAY, JUNE 22 Horse Wisdom Circle – 6:30-8pm. Experience what horses have to teach. Sit quietly together and enjoy the horses’ presence, peace and energy in a serene wooded setting. Pre-registration is required. $22. Possibilities Farm, Wilton. 203-210-7484. PossibilitiesFarm@gmail.com. PossibilitiesFarm.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23 Emotional Freedom Technique Circle – 10-11am.

With Debbie Morgan. Come together to tap, move energy, open blockages, and work on whatever it is that is concerning you or getting in your way. $20/ per person. Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203948-5372. IntegrativeHealthAdvocacy@gmail.com.

IntegrativeHealthAdvocacy.com.

Sacred Sound Healing – 8-9:30pm. With Maitreya Shanti and Sada. Special evening of sonic bliss with two exceptional musicians and energy healers.

Experience the healing power of sound and mantra to restore and balance the body, mind and spirit, while you relax and receive. Bring a mat, blanket and pillow. $25 by 6/22; $30/day of. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

markyourcalendar 13TH OCTAVE LA HO CHI TRAINING The Most Powerful Healing on the Planet with Eilis Philpott, Soul Healing Journey, LLC

Friday, June 23 (evening), Saturday, June 24, and Sunday, June 25 This magnificent gift is the anchoring of our divinity in physicality, as we move from the ascension process to the creation process.

13th Octave LaHoChi is the next step in energy healing – a quantum leap available now to the healers and people of Nova Earth.

Inspired Soul Studio (private yoga barn), 11 Tory Ln, Newtown $350, including all materials $100 deposit required to register Registration Required • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com Register at 13th Octave LaHoChi Training

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 Reiki Second Degree – 9:30am–5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Enjoy Radiant Health with Yoga Nidra – 3-4:30pm. With Barbara Templeton. Experience deeper levels of inner freedom. Give yourself permission to rest, balance, and restore, tapping into new sources of energy. Suitable for teens and adults, and is beneficial for pregnancy. All levels welcome. $25/before 6/22; $30/after or at door. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

New Moon Celebration – 7:30-8:45pm. With Regina Snyder. The new moon is the best time to manifest and bring in all things new, health, abundance and prosperity. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400.

Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25 Leap into Summer: A Special Class with Colette White – 11am-12:45pm. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to come together in community to celebrate valued friendships, teachings and leap into summer time with an open heart. $25 by 6/24; $30/day of.

Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7309642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT. com/Events.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 Reiki Second Degree Workshop — 10am–5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years).

Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Lineage.

Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Guided Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 6:30-7:30pm. With Linda Fiske and Judy Vuozzo.

Last Friday of each month. Relaxing guided meditation with the live playing of the Tibetan Healing Bowls. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

markyourcalendar NEW AGE & CRAFT EXPO Sunday, November 12 • 10am – 5pm Sponsored by Natural Awakenings Magazine Come Experience a Day of Both Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!

Intuitive Readers • Aura Photos & Crystals • 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers and Guided Meditations • Handcrafted Jewelry, Soaps, Spiritual Art, Oils • Crystals, Tibetan Singing Bowls, Oils • Health & Wellness, Healings & Massage, and much more!

Admission: $6 Wyndham Southbury 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury Vendor Space still available Cryours87@yahoo.com. 203-733-6560

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

ongoingcalendar markyourcalendar YOGA ON CANDLEWOOD LAKE Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays Starts June 5 • Noon Come join Michele Leigh, (RYT) to practice a gentle 60 minute yoga class on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake.

Space is limited.

Signup here: Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga

sunday Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am.

Gentle yoga, pranayama, meditation by Candlelight Relax, release and flow into wellness. Beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of CT, 96 Chapel St, Stratford.

Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rte 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272.

NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am.

Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation.

Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk.

203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from

Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Ignite your Spirit Healing Clinic – 11:45am2pm. Second Sunday. Healing clinics are a great way to try out or receive on-going assistance with anything life throws your way. Register in advance to participate. $20/suggested donation.

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

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 4-5pm. Fourth Sunday. With Nina Antolino. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. Please pre-register. $22 or All Access Pass.

LifePath Yoga & Wellness4, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-544-8551. Nina@LifePathYoga.net.

LifePathYoga.net.

Monthly Healing Circle – 4-5:30pm. First Sunday.

Whether you are in need of healing or a healer wishing to share your gifts for the highest good of others, this group is for you. Group limited to 8, please RSVP. Free or $10/suggested donation. Acupuncture Works, 132A State Rt 37, New Fairfield. 845-4940090. Reiki4Wellness@aol.com.

Bliss Out! Dance to Live Drumming – 7-8:30pm.

Dirst Sunday. With Jojo. Find your tribe. Open Sky Yoga Barn, 95 Cross Hwy, Redding. Keane.Jojo@ gmail.com.

monday Foundations of Herbalism: Level 1 – 9:30am-5pm.

First and third Monday March through October.

Program provides the opportunity spend time outdoors in Nature’s classroom discovering the numerous healing benefits of the plants that grow all around us. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbs@ gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/events/2017/3/6/ foundations-of-herbalism-level-1.

Monday Morning Meditation – 11:30am12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Great for those new to meditation and sage meditators. Explore different meditation techniques including breathwork, guided meditation, mantras (sound), yantra (sight), and slow motion movement. $30/drop-in; $100/5-classes.

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice.

Classes begin June 5th. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@ gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga.

Gentle Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. With Nina Antolino.

Focusing on slow, purposeful stretching and basic postures, breathing and balance. All skill levels and ages. $22/drop-in. $10/new student, drop-in.

LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net.

LifePathYoga.net.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through

the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Free Guided Meditation – 7:30pm: second Monday.

1pm: first and third Wednesday. With Dr. Allen Levy.

Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need.

Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday Tai Chi Classes – 9:30-10:30am. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus, balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in, $85/1-class per week $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking?

Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny.

Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rte 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com.

Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month with June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing.

All levels of practitioners are welcome Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

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ongoingcalendar Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday.

Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893.

Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com.

Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition.

All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested donation.

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

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Apothecary Hours – 10am-1pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883.

Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com.

Women’s Wisdom Group – 10:30am-12:30pm.

Women support each other through the process of recognizing and embracing one’s full, authentic beings and, in doing so, nurturing their highest potential. $30. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org.

Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice.

Classes begin June 5th. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@ gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga.

Free Guided Meditation – 1pm. First and third Wednesdays. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Gentle yoga, pranayama, meditation by Candlelight Relax, release and flow into wellness. Beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of CT, 96 Chapel St, Stratford.

High-Powered Healing – 7pm. First Wednesday.

Easy ways to well heal on all levels. Intuitive insight, easy methods for daily wellness, how to determine quality foods and abundance. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown.

203-426-9448. Trinity@TrinityProduction.org.

TrinityProduction.org.

A Course In Miracles – 7-8:30pm. Study group where anyone can come without fear of being judged, a place where feelings can be shared in

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a loving, accepting atmosphere and above all, a place to enhance fun and inspire a sense of joy and laughter. $10/suggested donation. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield.

203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com.

SoulHealingJourney.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Experience bliss, peace, joy and deep healing. This is not your traditional silent or guided meditation class. This meditation will bring change into your life. By donation.

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

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20.

Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction.org.

TrinityProduction.org.

Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares — 7-9pm. Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions. In healing others healers are also healed themselves. All welcome. $10.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162.

Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org.

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Learn to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Wednesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka. Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. By phone or internet. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@sbcglobal.net.

Results-BeyondBelief.com.

Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and educrcation for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Tai Chi Classes – 9:30-10:30am. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus, balance and improve self and well-being. $25/ drop-in, $85/1-class per week $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. JTKindredSpirit@gmail. com. KindredSpiritsCenter.com.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness.

Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

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.

Thursday Chair Yoga – 3-4pm. With Beth Holland.

Gentle, loving yoga class that is accessible to all students. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted

by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20.

Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

Free Mommy and Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich.

Women’s Wisdom Group – 10:30am-12:30pm.

Women support each other through the process of recognizing and embracing one’s full, authentic beings and, in doing so, nurturing their highest potential. $30. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org.

Student Massage Therapy Clinic – 11am-noon.

Relax and enjoy a 50-minute, full-body massage for only $20 at our Danbury Campus public clinic. $20. 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. KMCCaffrey@ Ridley.edu. Ridley.edu.

Apothecary Hours – 11am-4pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883.

Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com.

Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice.

Classes begin June 5th. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@ gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga.

Pilates for Teens – 4:30-5:15pm. Ages 12-18.

Improve posture (prevents or corrects text neck,

improves core strength, tones and strengthens muscles, increases flexibility, compliments athletic conditioning, helps prevent sports related injuries, teaches body awareness. Sign up required. $15.

The Black Rock Pilates Studio, 2889 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport. 203-335-1987. BlackRockPilates@ gmail.com. BlackRockPilates@gmail.com.

Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety.

For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Discussion with Spirit – 7:30-9:45pm. Last Friday.

An evening of messages from Spirit and loved ones.

Bring questions, receive channeled information specifically geared to you. Receive help in empowering yourself to navigate this lifetime. $40. Call or email for location. EarthAndHealing@hotmail.com.

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.

Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353.

ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am.

Gentle yoga, pranayama, meditation by Candlelight Relax, release and flow into wellness. Beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5. Hindu Cultural Center of CT, 96 Chapel St, Stratford.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm.

Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600.

DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org Astrology with Laura – Noon. Second Saturday.

We are thrilled to host–the wonderful and wildly popular Laura Watkins, Astrological Counselor in our apothecary for reading. Call for an appointment. $45 for 1/2 hour session. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077.

TwinStarTina@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events.

Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care 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.

BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

ACUPUNCTURE

THE CENTER FOR COGNITIVE & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (CCBH)

KURT BEIL, ND, LAC, MPH

72 North St, Ste 100A, Danbury 914-362-8315 DrKurt@earthlink.net HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com

5 Sylvan Rd South, Westport 888-745-3372 • 203-307-5788 CCBHTherapy.com

Naturopathic and Chinese medicine for acute and chronic disease, including acupuncture, botanical medicine, cupping, moxa, homeopathy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, mindbody medicine, ecotherapy and functional lab testing. Helpful for muscle/joint pain and headaches, autoimmune disease, digestive disorders, mental health; boosting immune function; balancing hormones; tobacco addiction; and stress reduction. See ad, page 21.

The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health (CCBH) provides individualized mental health services in a warm, holistic environment. Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) teams offer individual, group, and family sessions, as well as skills coaching for all age groups. Our CCBH team offers these therapies along with yoga, mindfulness, meditation and naturopathic services.

See ad, page 4.

BIOFEEDBACK

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight-loss issues. See ad, page 25.

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tuneups and more. Facial rejuvenation/ cosmetic acupuncture also offered.

See ad, page 4.

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 53.

OPTIMAL MIND

Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net Biofeedback/neurofeedback for ADHD, enhanced focus, peak performance, test stress, anxiety, chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, anger, meditation, mindfulness training and more. Dr. Edwards is board certified and NYS licensed.

Physician and self-referrals welcome.

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BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non invasive, FDA registered. .See ad, page 18.

CANCER SUPPORT THERAPIES DORETTE LEWIS-SENIOR, ND, MSAC, BS-RN, LCM Yale New Haven Health, Integrative Medicine 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull 855-735-2533 • Drs2Health.com

Dr. Lewis-Senior has been a Naturopathic physician and healthcare provider for more than thirty years combined. Her focus is on womens’ health, especially cancer, diabetes, weight and pain.

She is experienced using multiple modalities to establish health and bring about healing. Some insurance accepted.

JILL M. CAPALBO, DC, CCSP Stamford 203-323-0522 CapalboChiropractic.com

With over 30 years experience in bodywork, Dr. Jill Capalbo is a certified chiropractic sports physician with additional certifications in Graston Technique, FAKTR and KinesioTaping as well as being a licensed massage therapist and Reiki Master.

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 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.

COLONICS COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

KERRY HARDY, RN, HNB-BC, RMT, CCH Holistic Heaven 203-895-5134 HolisticHeavenWellness.com MyDoterra.com/HolisticHeavenWellness

As a holistic nurse, I understand the importance of balancing traditional medicine with alternative complementary therapies to heal the mind, body and spirit. Offering health and nutritional counseling as a Certified Holistic Cancer Educator, Reiki, pranic healing and crystal therapy, aromatherapy with dōTERRA essential oils. Specializing in working with patients experiencing chronic pain, chronic disease and cancer. See ad, page 21.

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.

CHIROPRACTIC

ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPES

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

PETER BRAGLIA, DC

ECOSCAPES

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com

Rick Bednar 18 Eleanor Rd, Seymour 203-414-4605 RickBednar@gmail.com

As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique.

We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 15.

Ecoscapes is an ecological landscape company that combines more structural design, such as Japanese-style spirit gardens, with wildlife habitats and native plantings. We construct functional landscapes that bring the human spirit closer to our beautiful, natural planet and create healthy environments for us, our children and pets. See ad, page 31.

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natural awakenings

EDUCATION INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 • WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair, certification programs for yoga teachers, Reiki practitioners and shamanic practitioners.

WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes.

Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 23.

END OF LIFE CONSCIOUS DYING MATTERS

At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace end-of-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life.

ENERGY HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages.

Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 61.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE MARK JOACHIM, DC, FIAMA

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTNutritionCenter.com Dr. Joachim has been in private practice since 1990, specializing in nutrition, natural allergy elimination and functional medicine.

Through specialized testing, he identifies subtle changes in individual physiology which may be at the root of troubling symptoms. Addressing the underlying dysfunction can help you feel better, for good. See ad, page 35.

TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 • TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Autoimmune problems, Toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive Personalized Wellness Plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

HAIR LOSS & TRICHOLOGY LISA PRIMPS, TRICHOLOGIST, HLP, AT The Primping Place Spa 999 Summer St, #401, Stamford 203-325-9565 • ThePrimpingPlace.com

Fairfield County’s first location offering the XTC Multi Theraputic Hair Growth System including non-invasive, low level laser therapy—clinically proven and shown to be safe and effective at regrowing hair and creating a healthy scalp. The Primping Place also offers electrolysis and clinical skin care since 1992.

HEALING CENTER

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

THE RUBY TREE

Metaphysical Shop & Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-585-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more. Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 32.

501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com

Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a soughtafter speaker and lecturer.

His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.

HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM

HEALTH COACH

Thea Litsios, CHy 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com

MARY GILBERTSON, WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 238 Monroe Tpke, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.com

Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living. Working one on one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management.

ROOTS RISING ALCHEMY

Melissa Conroy, CHC 203-673-9491 RootsRisingAlchemy@gmail.com Offering 1:1 health coaching services including the “The 90 Day Total Transformation Program” and “14-Day Cleanse Reset”.

Book your free Total Transformation Discovery Session now at RootsRisingAlchemy.com to discover what has been keeping you from having the health and body you want, develop a powerful vision for what a total transformation means for you and your life, discover which foods and lifestyle habits are sapping your energy and bringing you down (and what to do about it!), and get crystal clear on a stepby-step plan to create a total transformation in 90 days or less. Change your Habits, Change your Life.

Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 47.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION 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 ads, pages 13 and 51.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN INTEGRATIVE MD

Tatiana Fleischman, MD 47 Oak St, Ste 110, Stamford 203-275-6666 Info@IntegrativeMDCenter.com IntegrativeMDCenter.com Experienced physician Tatiana Fleischman, MD combines internal and integrative medicine to achieve long-term wellness goals.

Full range of services: internal medicine, primary care, advanced testing, weight control, holistic assessment and more. Comprehensive approach. Major insurance accepted. See ad, page 23.

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INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com

Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance.

Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective. See ad, page 13.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD Brian Rodrigues, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, 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 9.

Dr. Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, weight-reduction programs, IV vitamin/minerals treatments, allergy evaluation and treatment, fibromyalgia care and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, 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 47.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

LEGAL SERVICES LAW OFFICES OF KIRSTEN E. BENNETT 27 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury 203-648-9883 50 Main St, White Plains, NY 914-246-2906

Advocacy, Representation, Communication. Kirsten Bennett is a solo practitioner with offices in Danbury and White Plains, NY. Her practice handles real estate, estate planning and probate, personal injury and criminal defense.

“My firm is committed to providing you with effective advocacy, quality representation and the highest level of personal service.”

LIFE COACHING DARLENE ALVAREZ MADDERN

Create With Your Thoughts Life Empowerment Coach, Teacher, Speaker and Mentor QSCA Certified Law of Attraction Coach, MA Sociology 860-488-2619 CreateWithYourThoughts.com

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns.

Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

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JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage.

At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 20.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

I empower my clients to move beyond their limiting beliefs, strengthen their sense of self worth and confidence to create the happiness, abundance, home, health and relationships they have always wanted. Create the life you want!

See ad, page 10.

natural awakenings

Licensed Massage Therapist and 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 38.

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.

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation.

Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 4.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural 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.

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC

Shawn M. Carney, ND 19 Church Hill Rd, Ste 1, Newtown 129 Main St N, New Morning Market, Woodbury 800-723-2962 NortheastNatMed.com Info@NortheastNatMed.com Integrative naturopathic medicine clinic and therapeutic massage center for the whole family.

Services include advanced diagnostic testing, detoxification programs, personalized nutrition, acupuncture, low level laser and botanicals. Insurance accepted.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/ Western herbs, allergy/toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/ enzyme therapies. See ad, page 12.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

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.

PsychoSpiritual Therapy and Coaching 203-260-9353 ChrisGuerrera@me.com InsightsWellnessCenter.com Non traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.

ROBIN QUEEN-FINKELSTEIN

SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to Re-envision life in order to flourish.

See ad, page 13.

NEUROFEEDBACK ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

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898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like Neurofeedback, Biofeedback, EFT, Hypnosis, Meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 53.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brainbased tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting, and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 53.

OPTIMAL MIND

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

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, back cover.

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork. See ad, page 35.

Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net Integrative psychotherapy: depression, anxiety, addictions, relationships, and more. Dr. Edwards is a NY lic. psychotherapist with 40 years of experience compassionately working with adults to realize their goals.

Meditation and mindfulness training are also offered.

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PSYCHOTHERAPY ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual and 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 10.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Re-discover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 31.

REGULATION THERMOGRAPHY

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui and Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years.

We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners.

We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 20.

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WELCOME TO GRAVITY

FAMILY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-539-1149 GoThermography.com

Chronic illness develops over time.With Regulation Thermography you discover the disturbances that are important to address in order to restore and optimize your health. Healing begins by providing the information to diagnose, assess, and treat complex health conditions. FDA approved test and reports.

Yoni Hormadaly, LMT 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com Yoni has been practicing Structural Integration since 2002. Specializing in improving the relationship between the human body and gravity. Flat feet, chronic pain and discomfort, improvement in athletic pursuits, general self improvement, are some of the reasons clients of all ages have sought out this work. Free phone consultation.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/ Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

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HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 22.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

SPIRITUAL CONSULTING ELYSIAN LIFE DESIGN Stacey Lyons 914-336-7693 Contact@ElysianLD.com ElysianLD.com

Stacey Lyons is a Certified Energy Healer and Certified Medium who has performed international medium readings. Specializes in Spiritual Consulting, Space/Land Clearing, Energy Healing, Herbal and Essential Oil based spiritual products and more.

Start your spiritual journey with us today. See ad, page 10.

TAI CHI/QIGONG JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using ancient Chinese arts.

Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats. See ad, page 4.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection.

20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 61.

SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings.

Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

WELLNESS CENTER

SALT OF THE EARTH HEALING ARTS SANCTUARY/ATHENA HALL

7eFIT SPA

346 Main St S, Woodbury 203-405-2241/203-586-1172

7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include antiaging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight-loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weight-loss program. See ad, page 11.

A space of calm and beauty, healing and restoration of the body and spirit, Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary offers a tranquil place to refresh and renew in a house charged with the energy of old. Beautiful Athena Hall, inside the Sanctuary, can be rented to like-minded people for classes, workshops, lectures and special events. Heart and Home is a unique store in the sanctuary; a cozy place to shop, have tea, scoop ™ and bag salts, purchase a variety of artisan goods.

See ad, page 7.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

SUNRAVEN: THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203-356-5822 515 West Ave, Norwalk • 203-814-1355 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com

Fit Spa

A new way to looking and feeling good.

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

Relax whileJiivaour is in technology the business of building

community for .yoga and healing. does aWe the work offer yoga classes, a school of

No surgery or invasive Reiki, privateprocedures.

Reiki treatments, massage therapy, Thai Infrared Sauna •traditional Micro-dermabrasion massage, meditation classes, workshops andWaxing community events.

Myolift • Torc • Body See ad, page 20.

Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki Dermalogica SALTANAFacials CAVE • Oxygen Facials 590 Danbury Ridgefield TeethRd, Whitening 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com Save Now

with Fairfield County’s first and Introductory Prices! only therapeutic HimalaCall 203-356-5822 yan salt cave provides

Promoting and supporting health and wellness; facilitating community-centered experiential and reflective learning for individuals, families, and groups, by offering educational programs, events, and resources designed to build integrative skills and understanding for those looking to holistically care for themselves, others, and the world in which we live.

Transformative programs, holistic medicine, psychospiritual counseling; women’s, men’s and couples groups, garden co-op, cleansing program; special 12-week “immersion”. See ad, page 13.

WELLNESS SUPPLEMENT

relief from respiratory is- SOLUTIONS sues such as allergies, CT 1092 High Ridge Road | Stamford, 06905 284 Racebrook Rd, Ste 21, Orange asthma, and side effects of 203-298-0677 7efitspact1@gmail.com | www.7efitspa.com smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti- Allison@MedTechHealthcare.com inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, MedTechHealthcare.com page 13.

As a distributor of CW Hemp (CharSALT OF THE EARTH lotte’s Web), we THERAPEUTIC SPA want to help every787 Main St S, Woodbury one better their health and wellness by offering a 203-586-1172 full line of Premium Whole-Plant Cannabinoid NaturalSaltHealing.com Hemp Extracts. Charlotte’s Web (CW) is The Combining an array Wo r l d ’s M o s t Tr u s t e d H e m p E x t r a c t ™ . of natural therapies “Be Calmer. Improve Focus. Just feel Better.” See that have been used ad, page 18. since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit. See ad, page 7.

Your ad could be featured here Reach over 60,000 Natural Awakenings readers by placing your ad here. Call for more info. 203-885-4674

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 OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT IN RIDGEFIELD PROFESSIONAL BUILDING. Comfortable environment with other professionals in the Education, Psychology and healing fields. Call 203-438-4080 or email RayPsychSer@aol.com.

HELP WANTED

501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicine.org

MEDTECH HEALTHCARE

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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.

EXPERIENCED LMT WANTED FOR PART TIME/FLEXIBLE HOURS at The Recharging Station in Bethel. Must be a positive team player & self starter. We provide clients, you provide amazing service and heart-centered care. Please contact Miss Cravens at 203- 748-1941 or email TheRechargingStation@gmail.com.

OFFICE SHARE ALOHA MANA, A CENTER FOR HEALING ARTS has space ideal for Acupuncturists, Massage Therapists, Naturopaths or Psychotherapists.

2nd floor of Firehouse Deli, downtown Fairfield, with plenty of parking. Space infused with Aloha; two offices to choose from: front is comfortable size with massage table, back office is oversized with chairs, table and room for group sessions.

Half-day, 2 half days and full day options. $80$125 per day, minimum of $350 per month required. Call 203-254-1777 or email Wanda@ ahonuipathways.com.

PRODUCTS HOME OF THE $10 YARD STATUE. Pet memorials, Angels, Buddha statues, Bird baths.

Many dog breeds. Shipping worldwide.75 Laura St, Tiverton, Rhode Island. 401-314-6752.

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June 2017

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COSMIC RHYTHMS Cancer Energy Brings Focus and Sense of Home

by Michele Leigh

T

his month, our personal planets—Venus, Mars and Mercury—all transition into new signs of the zodiac. This will initiate a shift around relationships, communication and our desire to take action. Nurturing Cancer flavors the month while it embodies Mars, the Sun and the New Moon.

On June 4, Mars moves into Cancer. Our inner warrior is feeling insecure and in need of some solace—similar to a soldier returning from war needing a home-cooked meal and a familiar bed. Feed the energy with creature comforts; Mars will need this extra care until July 20.

On June 6, Venus enters Taurus and is finally comfortable in her ruling sign. This sensual energy will encourage us to seek out things that feed the senses. Recovering from Venus’s temper tantrum through fiery Aries, we are now in a more practical place to foster our relationships. This earthy energy will last until July 5.

Also on June 6, Mercury moves into a new sign, that of its natural ruler, Gemini. With this placement of the communication planet, conversations tend to move quickly and jump from topic to topic. Mercury is one of the swiftest moving planets and will only inhabit this air sign until June 20.

A fiery Full Moon in Sagittarius arrives on June 9, burning with the energy of the truth-seeking centaur. Half man and half horse, the centaur represents our ability to theorize the issues while riding off to battle. This adventurous sign will inspire us to expand our horizons and perhaps travel to unexplored destinations.

The Sun enters watery Cancer on June 20, directing our attention to home and family. This sensitive energy yearns to be nurtured. While the Sun is here, we may find ourselves making decisions motivated by our sense of well-being.

We end the month with a New Moon in Cancer on June 23. This lunation in its ruling sign is a powerful energy and we will be strongly encouraged to take a fresh look at our ability to self-nurture. Feed this energy by slowing down and take time to check in with the “inner child”. Maybe it is time to run barefoot through the grass.

Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and podcaster. A practitioner of ancient astrology and planetary magic, she is an active member of the Organization for Professional Astrology.

Connect at DarkMoonAstrology.com.

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