September 2025 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | H E A LT H Y P L A N E T

event program page 15

FREE

Gut Vitality & Yoga

Kathleen Silard, President and CEO of Stamford Health surrounded by Stamford Health team members at the Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo at Harbor Point in Stamford.

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES EDITION

SEPTEMBER 2025

Welcome Back to Your Yoga Home!

Reopening & Open House Event at Kaia Yoga Greenwich Treats • Special Offerings • Meet the Teachers

Back to School, Back to Yoga 30 DAYS $ Unlimited Yoga

89

New season, new energy! Whether you’re returning from summer or discovering your new yoga home, start strong with our special intro offer for new students.

JOIN TODAY!

REST AND RESET WITH KAIA YOGA 2

October 2, 2025

Kaia Yoga Greenwich • 328 Pemberwick Rd

COSTA RICA YOGA RETREAT Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties eNaturalAwakenings.com March 28 – April 4, 2026

Info & Registration: greenwich@kaiayoga.com

200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Starting January 2026 — Enrollment Now Open!

• Deepen your yoga practice • Become Yoga Alliance Certified • Early Bird Special available!

LEARN MORE & APPLY: kaiayoga.com/200-hour-ytt info@kaiayoga.com

• Daily yoga & meditation • Connection with nature & community • Special offerings: sound healing, bodywork, and chanting Details at: kaiayoga.com/costa-rica info@kaiayoga.com

Contents 9 Radiant Hair, Conscious Care at Salon Aponte 10 Writing To and From the Gut 12 Balancing the Gut 12

28 Yoga and Gut Health 28 Healing Grief Through Movement and Mindfulness 31 Meeting Your Edge in Yoga

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Departments 5 News Briefs 8 Event Brief 9 Community

Spotlight

12 Feature Story 27 Healing Ways 28 Fit Body 31 Inspiration

33 Calendar 36 Classifieds 37 Resource Guide

Advertising & Submissions Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Email articles, news items, calendar events to: Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline: the 10th of the month.

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Publisher’s Letter

A Season of Change, Celebration and Reflection

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES Publisher Erica Mills Editor Erin Lehn Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Jessica Chichester Robin Fasano Sales & Marketing Dana Boulanger Erica Mills Social Media CC Innovations Distribution Man in Motion LLC Cover Photo Submitted by Stamford Health

CONTACT US 241 Catherine St, Buchanan, NY 10511

Erica Mills

Although I often dread the shift from summer to autumn, whenever September arrives, I’m once again reminded of how much I actually cherish the promise of fall. The air turns crisp, leaves crunch beneath my feet and the season arrives with a sense of renewal.

What once felt like an ending transforms into an opening for fresh adventures and lasting memories.

This month feels especially meaningful, too. My son turns 20 and my daughter 17, and while I celebrate these milestones with joy, I’m also deeply aware of the changes they bring. For years, with their birthdays just one day apart, we’ve celebrated together—almost like they were twins. But now that my son is away at college, the tradition is different and his absence lingers in every moment. Much like the change of seasons, these milestones are bittersweet, marking both endings and beginnings.

Ph: 203-885-4674 Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

Still, I’m reminded that their lives, from the very start, include moments that have shaped me as much as they did them. Time moves swiftly, and while we often celebrate the “firsts,” it’s the “lasts” that deserve just as much attention. My gentle reminder this month: be present for those lasts. They often slip by quietly, but when recognized, they become opportunities to pause, cherish and hold a little closer.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

This issue reflects that same spirit of honoring what has passed while embracing practices that nurture renewal, balance and growth. Whether through movement, mindfulness or caring for the body from within, September highlights two important themes: National Yoga Month and Gut Vitality. They intertwine beautifully together as both remind us that true wellness starts within.

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

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle COO Michael Bevilacqua CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180 Customer Service Dani Bucad

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com © 2025 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. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Yoga has been a guiding light in my life, helping me through darkness and leading me back to peace time and again. Its benefits are profound and a consistent practice continues to shape my path toward greater balance and mindfulness.

With expert insights on supporting digestion, balancing the microbiome and managing conditions like IBS, our Gut Vitality theme invites us to look inward at the foundation of whole-body health. Often called the root of well-being, the gut is where balance begins and, too often, where disease and inflammation take hold. When we nourish it with care, we support not only the physical body, but also the mind and spirit, creating space for clarity and emotional ease.

As fall sets in, it’s a natural time to reset, nourish and prepare for what’s ahead. We’re transitioning to a more organized rhythm of life, with plenty of local events to enjoy. I’m especially excited to be at the Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo on September 6 in Stamford at Harbor Point and I look forward to seeing many of you there. Each year I have the joy of meeting so many of our wonderful readers at this event and it has truly become one of the highlights of my year. The magazine you’re holding also contains the Expo’s exciting schedule and a showcase of its generous vendors and sponsors—be sure to check it out on page 15. I hope to see you at this or another local gathering and if you’re organizing something special, please do reach out. We love connecting, attending and sharing Natural Awakenings with the community. Your thoughts, stories and testimonials mean so much.

May this season bring you moments of calm, insight and renewal. And may caring for your inner health carry you forward with resilience and vitality.

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

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News Briefs

MASS ENERGY HEALING

with Aggregata

Group Acupuncture Sessions in Stamford Healthful Harmony, the boutique naturopathic and acupuncture practice founded by Dr. Amy Wiesner, is proud to announce the launch of the first and only group acupuncture services in Stamford.

Designed to be both accessible and affordable, these communitystyle sessions offer high-quality acupuncture in a serene, shared setting—ideal for managing stress, pain, anxiety, fatigue or simply supporting overall wellness.

Unlike traditional private acupuncture appointments, group acuDr. Amy Wiesner puncture takes place in a calming room with multiple comfortable recliners. Patients are treated quietly alongside others, with each session tailored to their individual needs. Treatments use acupuncture points that don’t require disrobing, making the experience simple, dignified and effective.

“As a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist for over 20 years, I’ve seen firsthand how profoundly acupuncture can support the body and mind,” says Wiesner. “Group acupuncture lets me extend this care to more people, offering healing in a relaxed and welcoming space, with all the benefits of high-quality acupuncture at a lower cost.”

Dr. Wiesner specializes in treating emotional imbalances, fertility, hormonal imbalances, fatigue, pain, allergies and more. Her new group acupuncture sessions are another step toward her mission of bringing compassionate, holistic care to a broader community.

Sessions begin Saturday, August 23, at Artemesia Integrative Wellness Center, located at 1435 Bedford Street in Stamford. Initial intakes (45 minutes, including history and treatment) are $115, with follow-up visits (30 minutes) at $75.

A Portal for Energetic Renewal & Spiritual Alignment ...

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For details or to book a session, visit HealthfulHarmony.com or call 203-962-5887.

Celebrated New Age & Craft Expo Returns to Southbury

Come Exerience a Day of Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!

Sun. Nov. 2, 2025

A day of creativity, healing and spiritual enlightenment awaits as the New Age & Craft Expo returns to the Wyndham Southbury on November 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This enriching event brings together vendors and readers from across the tri-state area, offering a wide range of intuitive services and hand-crafted treasures.

Offerings include past-life intuitive readings, angel guidance, astrology insights, crys10 AM - 5andPM tal healing, aura photography and reiki sessions—along with a group reiki circle for those 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers seeking relaxation and renewal. & Guided MeditationsGuests are also invited to bring a photo of their pet to receive a personalized animal reading.

TAROT & INTUITIVE READINGS

HANDCRAFTED GIFTS Visitors can also browse a thoughtfully curated marketplace featuring artisan-made gifts HEALTH & WELLNESS perfect for the holidays.

Available items include crystals, essential oils, handmade candles, TIBETAN BOWLS Tibetan singing bowls,AURA jewelry, PHOTOSsoaps, spiritual art, pottery and more.

CRYSTALS

With two rooms of dynamic REIKI speakers and guided meditations happening throughout the 12th AND day, the expo offers inspiration for both curious newcomers and seasoned seekers.

Year

SO

MUCH Cost: $6. See ad on page 9 for $1 off coupon. Location: 1284 Strongtown Rd., Southbury.

MORE...

Vendor spaces still available.

For more information, call 203-733-6560 or email Cryours87@ Wyndham Southbury yahoo.com.

(I84 Exit 16)

1284 Strongtown Rd. Southbury, CT

September 2025

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News Briefs

Sacred Healing Sessions at The Granite Church

Weekly in-person energy healing sessions are now being offered in Redding, led by Source Energy Channel and Aggregata LLC founder, Aggregata Zupanova.

Held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at The Granite Church, these sacred gatherings invite participants to experience deep energetic renewal, emotional clarity, and alignment with Source energy in a supAggregata Zupanova portive group setting. “This special gathering offers a powerful group healing experience, created to help you release emotional heaviness, reconnect to your inner wisdom, and anchor a deeper sense of peace within your body and spirit,” says Zupanova.

The Granite Church, known for its peaceful atmosphere and historic resonance, naturally amplifies the transformative work taking place within its walls. No prior experience is needed. “Participants frequently describe a release of energetic blockages—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual,” Zupanova explains. “In the presence of a supportive collective field, healing deepens, clarity returns, and alignment with the true self is restored.”

The suggested donation is $25, with half of proceeds supporting The Granite Church’s community initiatives and ongoing renovations. “Whether you’re new to energy work or seeking a space to reset and reconnect, you are welcome here—exactly as you are,” adds Zupanova.

Location: 5 N. Main St., Redding. To reserve a spot, text “Register” with the number of attendees to 845-464-4676. For more information, visit AggregataEnergyHealing.com. See ad, page 5.

Mini-Retreat Day at Chester Guest House The Holistic Community Professionals of New England will host a day-long mini-retreat on September 20, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Guest House Retreat and Conference Center in Chester, Connecticut.

Attendees can enjoy two transformative workshops, an organic buffet lunch, and time to relax on the retreat’s scenic grounds and labyrinth.

The morning session, led by Aaron Singleton and Claudia Sanchez of The Way to Balance Center, introduces Numbers for Healing. Participants will explore the vibrational frequency of numbers and learn how they can enhance meditation, intuition, sleep and overall healing.

“This workshop will open your mind to the power of numbers beyond your imagination. Each number, when said individually, resonates at a specific frequency, which literally gives the number and frequency life,” explains Singleton. Each guest will receive an activation code designed to support their personal practice.

After lunch, the afternoon workshop shifts focus to The Rings of Oden, a set of innovative vibrational healing tools created by Singleton. Based on “Net-Neutral Ionic Energy,” the Rings accelerate physical, emotional and spiritual healing, bypassing the brain to reach deeper layers of balance and transformation. No prior experience is needed.

The full-day retreat, including both workshops, buffet lunch and beverages, is $199 per person. Advance registration is required by September 12 for lunch and by September 17 for workshops. Payments can be made via EventBrite, Venmo or CashApp. Location: Guest House Retreat & Conference Center, 318 W. Main St., Chester. For details and registration, visit YourHolisticEvents.com/retreat or call Shirley R. Bloethe at 860989-0033. See ad, page 13.

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Support-A-Walk for Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Support Connection, Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Yorktown Heights, invites the community to take part in the 31st annual Support-AWalk for Breast, Ovarian and Gynecological Cancer from 9 a.m. to noon on October 5 at Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) State Park, in Yorktown Heights.

This uplifting annual event shines a light on the needs of people living with breast, ovarian or any gynecological cancer, while raising funds for Support Connection’s free year-round services, including one-on-one peer counseling, support groups, educational and wellness programs, and social activities.

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Every year, thousands of people from the Hudson Valley and beyond walk together to celebrate, support and remember loved ones.

Family, friends, businesses and organizations all join in to express encouragement and compassion.

“Join us at FDR State Park or walk in your own neighborhood— near or far,” encourages Amanda Margiotta, Support Connection’s communications and development manager. “Walk on your own, form a team with family and friends or participate virtually.” Those that can’t participate can still help the cause by donating, fundraising and spreading the word.

“Whether you walk with us in the park or across the country, your participation makes a real difference,” adds Margiotta. “We can’t do what we do without you.”

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Location: FDR State Park, 2957 Crompond Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY. For more information or to make a donation, call 914-962-6402 or visit SupportConnection.org/support-a-walk.

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Editorial Calendar Three-Month Planner

Brain Gain October

Balancing Energy November

Embrace Joy December

September 2025

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Event Brief

Kaia Yoga Greenwich Refreshes Its Sanctuary for Wellness

K

aia Yoga’s beloved Greenwich studio has undergone a stunning renovation, creating a brighter, more spacious environment for movement, mindfulness and community connection. The upgraded space is now open, with a special Open House planned for October 16 to celebrate.

Located in the historic mill just off the Merritt Parkway, Kaia Yoga has been a wellness hub in the Greenwich–Westchester

heartfelt gathering for connection and sharing. Wellness experiences extend beyond the mat with sound healing sessions, a free weekly meditation, and a full calendar of special events and trainings.

community for years. “This renovation is about deepening our commitment to highquality, accessible wellness for everyone,” says Studio Manager Ashley Gullotta.

Students can now enjoy both hot and nonhot yoga rooms under one roof, along with enhanced amenities for comfort and ease.

The class lineup spans hot vinyasa, gentle and restorative yoga, meditation, and weekly community offerings like Soul Circle—a

Kaia Greenwich also features a private healing room for reiki, massage and other oneon-one services, plus a curated boutique and convenient parking.

The October 16 Open House invites the community to explore the refreshed space, meet teachers, enjoy mini wellness sessions, and sample treats. “It’s a chance to experience what makes Kaia so special,” says Gullotta.

Location: 328 Pemberwick Rd., Greenwich.

For more information, call 203-532-0660, email greenwich@kaiayoga.com or visit KaiaYoga.com/Greenwich. See ad, page 2.

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Community Spotlight

Come Exerience a Day of Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!

Sun. Nov. 2, 2025 10 AM - 5 PM

The Salon Aponte Team

Radiant Hair, Conscious Care at Salon Aponte

A

2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers & Guided Meditations

t Salon Aponte in Monroe, beauty is more than skin deep— it’s a philosophy rooted in wellness, sustainability and style.

Owner Nancy Aponte has built her reputation on delivering cutting-edge trends in color, cuts and styling while prioritizing nontoxic, eco-conscious products that protect both clients and stylists.

Whether it’s precision highlighting, a transformative cut or a custom balayage, every service is infused with clean beauty principles.

Aponte’s dedication to safer salon practices began with a pivotal moment early in her career. “I was applying color when the ammonia fumes went right into my lungs,” she recalls. “I knew instantly it wasn’t safe.” That experience set her on a mission to transform her salon’s offerings—gradually swapping out traditional formulas for organic, cruelty-free and low-VOC products.

Today, Salon Aponte features vegan and environmentally friendly brands such as Current Hair Care, which harnesses reef-safe marine ingredients, and Neuma, a California company that plants a tree for every product sold. They also carry RPM (Relief, Protection, Moisture), a pharmaceutical-grade CBD line designed to support hair, scalp and skin wellness.

The salon recently introduced Calecim, an advanced hair growth system powered by a proprietary complex derived from ethically sourced stem cells. Clinical studies show this groundbreaking treatment reduces follicle inflammation by 30 percent, increases hair count by 14 percent, thickens shafts by 16 percent and boosts follicle density by 15 percent—with no side effects.

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Aponte and her team take a whole-body approach to beauty, offering guidance on why clean products matter and how they can enhance health over time. “Our goal is to enhance natural beauty while protecting our health and the planet,” she says.

New clients receive a goody bag with rebooking incentives and gifts. Online shopping for safer hair care is available at Shop.SalonInteractive.com/store/salonaponte.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-261-2838 or visit SalonAponte.com. Location: 838 Main St., Tollgate Plaza, Monroe. See ad, page 11.

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203-733-6560 September 2025

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Writing To and From the Gut

“all disease begins in the gut” and he wasn’t wrong. Researchers now know that gut health significantly impacts overall health and plays a crucial role in effective digestion, immune function and even mental health.

By some estimates, more than 66 percent of Americans experience digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea or stomach pain, as well as conditions like IBS, gastric reflux or IBD. These problems can stem from poor diet, stress, lifestyle habits or underlying medical conditions.

How Journaling Supports Health and Healing

by Nancy S. Scherlong

H

ave you ever had “butterflies” before a big social event or noticed a “pit in your stomach” when facing a difficult task? Then you’ve experienced the conversation that can happen between our bellies and our brains.

This link between our nervous and digestive systems is more than just a figure of speech—the two systems are connected through the gut-brain axis, a network of nerves, microbes and hormones that influence how we feel, think and act.

Of course, medical evaluation should be a part of every health routine, and new or severe GI symptoms should be discussed with your practitioner. Once organic issues are ruled out or are being treated, creative practices can be a helpful adjunct—not a replacement—for medical care.

Prevalence of GI Symptoms in Americans

Hippocrates, ancient founder and pioneer of clinical medicine said nearly 2500 years ago

Impact Photography on AdobeStock.com

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, we all have a “second brain”—the enteric nervous system—made up of two thin layers of more than 100 million nerve cells lining the

digestive tract. Because digestion, stress and mood travel the same pathways, listening to our guts through various types of mindful noticing and writing may be powerful ways to support well-being.

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According to the American Gastroenterological Association, a new study confirms a significant post-pandemic rise in disorders of gut-brain interaction, including functional dyspepsia and IBS as well as a tendency for gut symptoms to be more severe in those with long-COVID.

Writing and Health

Social psychologist and expressive writing researcher Dr. James Pennebaker has known since the late 1980’s about the power of emotional disclosure in improving one’s health.

His landmark research, and many subsequent studies, demonstrated that putting one’s deepest thoughts, feelings and even undisclosed secrets on the page can improve immune function, reduce inflammation markers and result in fewer doctor visits.

He found that the conditions most influenced by expressive writing tended to be those in which repression was a key variable. Dr. Pennebaker has authored many books on the subject including Opening Up

by Writing it Down and Expressive Writing: Words that Heal.

The National Institutes of Health notes that repression is often a common factor in digestive issues, particularly symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and that expressive writing may increase one’s self-efficacy around pain and potentially lead to better symptom management.

So how does writing connect us back to our bodies and create a bridge between thought and sensation?

Creating a Bridge Back to Our Bodies

• What is my “gut” telling me? (feel free to draw, scribble or list words)

New Africa on AdobeStock.com

How many of us have lost a sense of connection to ourselves, our values or our vitality in stressful times?

Tuning in to our “gut” or intuition often requires time and quiet space away from daily routines. Creativity is a crucial component of wellness, and learning to focus on the body’s cues—through writing or mindful noticing—can help restore integration.

Author and podcaster Glennon Doyle observes: “I have learned that if I want to rise, I have to sink first. I have to search for and depend upon the voice of inner wisdom instead of voices of outer approval.”

Somatic psychology and mindfulness traditions emphasize presence, awareness and nonjudgmental noticing of our sensory experiences as a path to wholeness and healing.

Peter Levine, innovator of Somatic Experiencing (SE), describes trauma as a “loss of connection to ourselves, to our bodies, to our families, to others, and to the world around us.” His approach focuses on gently restoring that connection through the body’s innate healing capacity.

Break Out Your Journal

The communication pathway between our minds and our guts is one we can engage with directly.

Wellness journaling can serve as a symptom tracker—helping individuals notice

patterns, identify triggers, and share progress with providers. Dr. Pennebaker notes that the most effective expressive writing often involves writing for 15–20 minutes about emotionally significant topics, ideally over several consecutive days, without editing or censoring.

Writing for our gut might include some calming or restorative practices like the following: • Make a list of things that calm your stomach, literally and metaphorically.

• Remember a time of calm, where your stomach and nervous system felt at ease.

Write about that time but in the present tense with as much sensory awareness as possible and as if it were happening right now.

Writing from our gut can help when we need to process an experience. You might ask (and answer) some questions like:

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• What are some things that are “hard to stomach” in life right now? Write more about the one that feels most powerful right now.

• What events or experiences do I still need “time to digest?” What would help me to experience more healing space around one of these issues?

• If I had a dialogue with _____ digestive symptoms, what is it trying to let me know and what am I saying back? How would paying more attention to this conversation change my life?

Though many people journal on their own, group workshops or working with a practitioner can help ease isolation, reduce shame and foster connection. Most writing-forhealth groups emphasize process rather than product, with sharing optional.

So much wisdom lies within us and our bodies. Through writing, we can listen, respond and begin to rewrite our health narratives.

Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, CHHC, SEP, CP, PTR/CJT-CM, is a certified holistic health coach, trauma psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and has been an expressive arts therapist and trainer for over 20 years. She is the wellness contributor for Journal Therapy for Overcoming Burnout. Learn more about her work at WellnessMetaphors. com. See ad, page 7.

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Different species have specialized roles. For instance, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii lowers inflammation by nourishing gut cells, while Akkermansia muciniphila maintains the gut lining by breaking down mucus and supporting helpful bacteria. Each person hosts approximately 1,000 distinct microbial species, while humanity collectively harbors more than 10,000 species.

Feature Story

Balancing the Gut

Like a garden, the gut microbiome contains a mix of helpful and harmful organisms. Beneficial microbes behave like healthy plants, supporting digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function.

When cared for, these helpful organisms thrive, while also helping to keep harmful microbes (weeds) under control.

Investing in Our Inner Ecosystem

by Hannah Tytus

“T

he gut is the first to encounter the universe, and it is the first line of defense between you and the universe,” says Dr. Madiha Saeed, a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell. Home to trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes, the digestive tract forms a complex ecosystem known as the gut microbiome, which influences many aspects of health.

Microbes perform numerous functions. They help break down food, produce essential nutrients, support the immune system and influence mood, cognition and overall well-being. Diet, stress, sleep, medications and environmental exposures shape the makeup of our gut microbiota, which, in turn, impact the body’s propensity for health or disease. Efforts to restore and nurture gut health offer opportunities for us to enhance our well-being through simple lifestyle changes.

Gut Microbiome Basics

The intestinal environment is constantly changing, with new microbes entering and others disappearing daily, creating a dynamic community of tiny organisms that is unique to every individual.

Our intestinal garden is shaped by how it is tended. Fiber-rich foods, fermented products and exposure to natural environments help nourish the good microbes, much like water, sunlight and compost nourish plants. By contrast, processed foods, excessive sugar and unnecessary antibiotics can disrupt the balance and allow harmful microbes to take over.

Many people experience gut imbalance, or dysbiosis, without realizing it. The gut is highly sensitive to its environment, and everyday choices like processed foods, medications and chronic stress can quietly disrupt the inner balance, making it harder for beneficial microbes to thrive.

Medications. “Though some medications can save your life, they do come with a side disadvantage, so you need to weigh your risks versus the benefits when it comes to taking any medications,” Saeed advises, noting that antibiotics, for example, reduce microbial diversity and richness, causing short-term changes in the microbiome. While most people recover within two months, their microbiota diversity and productivity may remain low, and some people may experience longer-lasting disruptions.

Common painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen can also interact with the composition and function of the gut microbiome. They inhibit microbial growth, induce microbial cell death and increase gut permeability. NSAIDs can also interact with gut microbes, thereby impacting how well the drug is absorbed.

Gema Ibarra/CanvaPro

Foods. The food we eat significantly impacts the microbiome’s composition and metabolism. “Real foods nourish the good bugs, while processed foods fuel the bad,” says Saeed. Diets high in processed foods, sugars and additives create a toxic load that disrupts bacterial balance and triggers inflammation, leading to chronic disease. Eating these kinds of ingredients on a consistent basis can slowly damage the gut, as harmful microbes crowd out beneficial species, weakening the intestinal ecosystem over time without immediate signs of distress.

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Stress. Chronic stress is another gut health disruptor. Stress hormones can reduce beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia muciniphila, which has been identified as a potential protector against obesity and Type 1 diabetes. Stress also encourages yeast overgrowth, leading to inflammation and intensifying the stress response in a vicious cycle. Studies also show that stress, whether physical or perceived, can alter overall microbial composition.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

A 2018 narrative review published in Frontiers in Microbiology analyzed existing preclinical studies and found that various psychological, environmental and physical stressors can alter gut microbiota composition and function. Furthermore, a 2023 systematic review published in Neuropsychobiology found that higher perceived stress was associated with lower microbial diversity and decreased abundance of beneficial genera such as Lachnospira, Veillonella and Phascolarctobacterium. Harmful bacteria like Methanobrevibacter rose in relative abundance in stressed individuals.

Signs of Imbalance

Indications of an unhealthy gut show up in various ways. Digestive issues such as bloating, gas and constipation often signal an imbalance. Fatigue, mood swings and skin conditions like acne or eczema may also be related to poor gut health. Unexplained weight changes, cognitive problems and food sensitivities may be caused by intestinal distress. A weakened immune system, trouble sleeping and bad breath can also indicate a need for gut support.

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Environmental factors influence the microbiome more than genetics, but when the gut has been harmed, Saeed explains, restoration takes more than just a probiotic.

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On the other hand, microbiota-accessible carbohydrates (MACs) such as legumes, root vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds are essential for a diverse and resilient microbial community. Because MACs are not broken down by digestive enzymes, they are fermented by gut microbes, feeding and promoting the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria.

Choosing organic produce helps avoid synthetic pesticides and herbicides sprayed on produce to eliminate pests and weeds. These chemicals have been shown to negatively affect the gut microbiome and human health. “It’s best to eat local food that is not sprayed,” advises Dr. Patrick Hanaway, a board-certified functional medicine family physician, educator and chief medical officer of KnoWEwell.

Supplement wisely. Probiotics and prebiotics are vital for healing the gut. Probiotics, whether found in foods like yogurt and other fermented products or taken as supplements, introduce live bacteria into the body. Prebiotics act like fertilizer, feeding good bacteria and helping restore overall balance. Fiber-rich foods such as asparagus, bananas, garlic, onions, oats, apples and legumes naturally support a thriving gut ecosystem.

As Hanaway explains, “A probiotic is a live bacteria that can be ingested and move into the stomach and populate the body. A prebiotic is a component that helps feed the commensal [beneficial]

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Repairing the Gut

Eat organic whole foods. “Food is medicine. Every bite can either help or hurt,” counsels Saeed, emphasizing the importance of daily food choices. Like humans, gut microbes need nourishment to thrive. When they eat well, human health flourishes. The typical Western diet is high in simple carbohydrates and fat, but low in fiber, offering little nourishment for beneficial microbes.

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bacteria in the gut. Probiotics are highly specific. They have great benefits for specific strains for specific diseases in specific doses. Yet, the probiotic is a tourist; it doesn’t stay in the body. It’s great to have tourists in the economy, but if an economy becomes entirely dependent on tourism, it becomes a problem.”

When choosing supplements, quality matters. Due to limited regulations, it is best to purchase from reputable brands. Supplements in fillable capsules tend to have fewer fillers and more active ingredients.

Vitamins and minerals are best absorbed from whole foods, so supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet.

Start a garden. Gardening increases the availability of fresh, fiber-rich, seasonal fruits and vegetables in the diet, but the very act of putting our hands in the dirt may also help increase the diversity of our gut microbiome.

A 2022 cohort study of 19 families over one growing season by scientists at the University of Illinois and published in the journal Nature found that when compared to nongardeners, families that grew plants and produce in their backyards had more gut

bacteria linked to fiber fermentation, greater microbial diversity and even some microbes in their guts that appeared to come from the soil. Families that gardened also ate more fiber-rich foods.

Commit to small actions. Healthy microbiomes grow with consistent care—not perfection—and even small lifestyle changes can build a more resilient ecosystem for better overall health. There is no magic bullet for healing the gut. The key is to commit one hour a week to health education and to small actions focused on rebuilding the inner ecosystem one change at a time.

“A strictly-diet approach isn’t the answer; a lifestyle approach is,” says Dr. Tom O’Bryan, an expert on food sensitivities, environmental toxins and the development of autoimmune diseases, as well as the host of the Regenerative Whole Health Show at KnoWEwell.com. “Dietary regimens can go only so far if something else persists, like mold in the house, high glyphosate levels or accumulated mercury in the body.” Addressing the macrocosm around us helps fix the microcosm inside us.

Indoor air filtration and water purification measures might be necessary to counteract an unhealthy indoor environment. Small changes like storing leftover food in glass rather than plastic can help keep harmful compounds out of the gut. Herbs such as chamomile and holy basil in diffusers and teas may aid the chronically stressed.

Even simply chewing our food slowly, with mindfulness and gratitude, can help aid the digestion process.

The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem that plays an essential role in overall health.

Understanding what it is, what harms it and how to recognize signs of imbalance empowers us to take practical steps to restore and maintain gut health. By nourishing the microbiome with whole foods, managing stress, using supplements wisely and embracing small lifestyle changes, individuals can cultivate a resilient inner garden that supports well-being for life.

Hannah Tytus is a researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C. and former technical writer for the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

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movement or sound. This jettisons the pain so it doesn’t stay bottled up and fester. By getting the feelings out of the body, one is clearing the way for joy to enter. According to Denniston, “The only way to move through feelings is to express them.”

Healing Ways

Healing Grief Through Movement and Mindfulness

Expression clears space for joy to return. This may include vocalizing—anything from a sigh to a roar—or raising the arms to the sky while asking aloud, “Why?” Movement, such as shaking the hands, rolling the shoulders or twisting the torso, can help “shake off ” what’s being carried. Keep moving until the hurt feels emptied.

Visualize it leaving the body.

by Robin Fasano

G

kieferpixon AdobeStock.com

Connection

rief can become lodged in the body, lingering in muscles, joints and fascia. As the saying goes, “The issues are in the tissues.” Our bodies remember experiences on a cellular level, and unprocessed pain often manifests as physical tension. To heal, our emotions need to move.

Paul Denniston, author of Healing Through Yoga: Transform Loss into Empowerment, says yoga poses can foster recovery because they “help you find safety in the body.” With that safety, he says, people can befriend their feelings and transform them.

Denniston developed what he calls “a compassionate practice” designed for healing grief. It consists of five stages: awareness, expression, connection, surrender and evolution. Each one incorporates poses, movement and sound to help navigate loss and restore peace.

He encourages people to move through the steps at their own pace and return to them as often as needed.

Awareness

Awareness is the first step in healing. “Awareness is being present to the sensations in your body,” Denniston says. When emotions like grief, sadness and anxiety can’t be integrated and resolved, symptoms can manifest in the body. For instance, we might grind our teeth at night or we walk around with a knot in our stomach, or grief gets stuck in our shoulders as if we’re carrying the weight of loss.

Identify where grief is lodged—anger, hurt, disappointment, abandonment or betrayal—and acknowledge it. Place a hand on the area, name it aloud and notice what arises. By honoring and accepting those sensations, difficult emotions can begin to be released.

Expression

“The only way to move through feelings is to express them,” notes Denniston. Once identified, grief can be released through physical

The third stage is connection which brings a return to center and a sense of renewal. “Listen to your body,” says Denniston, “It will tell you what you need.”

Quiet the mind, soften the body and focus on gratitude—perhaps for a tree outside the window or a warm cup of tea. Place a hand on the heart and say “thank you” for simply showing up for one’s own healing and being with challenging emotions.

To connect and center, self-touch, such as a gentle massage, can increase circulation, soothe muscles and boost the immune system.

Another practice: cup the hands as if holding water, lift them to the forehead and say, “I wash in light … I bless myself.”

Surrender

Surrender is the practice of letting go of struggle to find peace. Instead of clinging to the pain, grief or anger, offer it to something larger—whether that’s God, the Divine Spirit, Source or a higher power. With trust comes faith—this opens the door for acceptance and empowerment.

Denniston suggests restorative postures such as lying face down on the floor in the following poses.

The Resting pose: Simply lie on the stomach on the floor with one cheek on the mat and hands by the sides. Rest fully on the mat.

Caterpillar pose: From a seated position, extend the legs forward.

Bend at the hips toward the toes, folding over the knees. Hold for two minutes, then release and straighten the spine upward.

Savasana: Lie on the back on a mat with arms at the sides, palms up, and legs extended flat. Close the eyes and focus on the breath. With each inhale and exhale “merge into one with the support that surrounds you, and rest,” says Denniston. Continue in this pose for as long as desired.

Evolution

In evolution, grief becomes integrated. “Grief doesn’t get smaller.

But we get bigger,” adds Denniston. Grief brings wisdom. Loss deepens wisdom, resilience and courage.

Then we should consider how we want to live now, what nourishes us and how our experiences can serve others.

“You’re here for a reason,” Denniston affirms. “Grief can help you discover it.”

Robin Fasano is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Fit Body

Yoga and Gut Health Healing from the Inside Out

by Rev. Dr. Jessica Chichester

Y

our gut is more than just a digestive organ—it’s a powerhouse that influences immunity, mood, energy and overall well-being. Sometimes called the “second brain,” the gut is intricately connected to the nervous system, producing neurotransmitters and housing trillions of microbes that communicate with nearly every system in the body.

When balanced, you feel light, clear and resilient. When imbalanced, you may notice bloating, fatigue, brain fog, mood swings or inflammation.

The good news? The gut is highly responsive to practices that calm stress, move stagnant energy, and restore balance. One of the most profound of these practices is yoga. When paired with integrative therapies, yoga becomes more than exercise—it’s a pathway to healing from the inside out.

How Yoga Supports Gut Health

• Stimulates digestion. Gentle twists and forward folds act like a natural massage for the abdominal organs, encouraging circulation and healthy peristalsis—the contractions that help move food through your digestive tract.

• Soothes stress. Stress is one of the biggest disruptors of gut function. Yoga poses

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combined with deep breathing help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest and digest” state where healing occurs.

• Supine spinal twist (Supta Matsyendrasana): Supports elimination while releasing the lower back.

• Reduces Inflammation. Chronic stress and a fast-paced lifestyle can fuel inflammation. Yoga, meditation and intentional breathing lower cortisol levels, calming both the nervous and digestive systems.

Even five to 10 minutes of these movements daily can make a noticeable difference in digestion and energy.

• Encourages mind-body awareness.

Practicing yoga helps you tune into subtle cues—such as how different foods, thoughts or habits make you feel—empowering you to make choices that support gut balance.

Yoga Poses for Gut Healing

Certain poses are particularly supportive for digestion and gut health: • Seated twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana): Helps “wring out” the abdominal organs and improve circulation.

• Cat-cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Gently massages the belly, awakening digestion.

Integrative Practices That Enhance Gut Health

While yoga is a powerful foundation, pairing it with complementary wellness therapies that support gut health can amplify its effects: • Heat therapy (infrared or sauna): Encourages sweating, circulation and detoxification, reducing the toxic burden on digestion.

• Cold exposure (cold plunge or contrast therapy): Lowers inflammation, strengthens resilience, and boosts metabolism.

• Light and frequency modalities: Certain therapies work on a cellular level, aligning energy and supporting systemic repair.

• Bridge pose (Setu Bandhasana): Stimulates the abdominal region and relieves tension.

• Detox support: Gentle detox practices can help clear environmental stressors that contribute to gut imbalance.

• Child’s pose (Balasana): A deeply restorative pose that calms the nervous system and eases abdominal discomfort.

• Breathwork and meditation: Simple practices regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and improve gut-brain communication.

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A unique way to deepen the benefits of yoga is by practicing simple poses on a whole body vibration platform. These devices use sound waves and frequency to create rapid micromovements through the body. When combined with yoga, the vibration amplifies circulation, lymphatic flow, and muscular engagement.

Yoga, Pilates & Fitness NETWORK

Romolo Tavani from AdobeStock.com

Yoga on a Whole Body Vibration Platform

Africa images/CanvaPro

For gut health, this can be especially helpful. Poses like cat-cow, seated twist, or even a gentle bridge pose on the vibration plate provide an internal massage effect, helping to stimulate digestion and clear stagnation. The added vibration also supports core strength and stability, which are vital for digestive function. Many people report feeling lighter and more energized when they pair yoga with vibration-based movement.

The Takeaway

Gut health thrives on synergy. Yoga alone brings profound benefits, but when paired with supportive therapies such as heat, cold, light, detox and vibration-based movement, the results can be transformative. Together, these practices create a rhythm of healing that works with the body’s natural wisdom, calming stress, supporting detoxification, and rebalancing the digestive system.

By weaving yoga into a holistic wellness lifestyle, you’re not just improving digestion— you’re creating a foundation for greater vitality, clarity and resilience in every aspect of life.

Rev. Dr. Jessica Chichester, owner of Haute Healing Oasis in Stamford, is a Hall of Fame athlete with over 25 years of yoga and athletic experience. A biohacking and holistic wellness expert, she integrates science and spirituality to help others restore balance and activate the body’s innate healing potential.

For more information, call 203-595-5304 or visit HauteHealingOasis.com.

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Inspiration

Meeting Your Edge in Yoga The Dance with Kali

by Christy Abate

I

n yoga, we often hear the phrase “meeting your edge.” It is a gentle yet powerful invitation to lean into the threshold where comfort ends and transformation begins. The edge is not a place of reckless pushing, nor is it a space of retreat and avoidance. Rather, it is the living boundary between what we know and what we have yet to discover about ourselves. To meet our edge is to step into the unknown with presence, courage and breath. In many ways, this experience mirrors the essence of Kali, the fierce yet loving Hindu goddess who embodies time, change and liberation.

On the mat, the edge is both physical and subtle. When we fold forward, balance on one leg, or expand into a backbend, we encounter sensations that tell us we are nearing our limit. Push too far, we wince in pain or risk injury; pull back too much, and we remain stuck in familiar patterns.

However, at our edge, that precise place where intensity meets breath, we find the possibility of expansion. How we respond to these thresholds in our practice often mirrors how we respond to these opportunities for growth and transformation in life. Kali, too, dwells at such thresholds. She stands at the symbolic border between life and death, illusion and truth, ego and liberation. Her dark form is a reminder that the edge is never comfortable, but always transformative.

Kali’s imagery is striking. She dances with her wild hair flying, tongue extended, a garland of skulls encircling her neck. She is often depicted standing on the chest of Shiva,

her consort, symbolizing the grounding of her unstoppable energy. To the uninitiated, she may appear terrifying. Yet to her devotees, she is the most compassionate of mothers, for she destroys only that which keeps us bound: our ego, attachments and fear. In yoga practice, when we meet our edge, Kali’s energy is present. She asks us: “What are you willing to release? What old story or fear must die so that you may be reborn into your truer self?”

Throughout our practice, we are offered countless opportunities to meet our edge.

Each class becomes an unfolding, a discovery of deeper truths of self. Some days, simply showing up on the mat is meeting our edge. Other days, it takes everything we have to tune out external distractions just to focus on the breath. We may feel

uncomfortable receiving the fullness of a heart-opening pose, or find ourselves groaning at the thought of moving into a backbend. What if we borrowed some of Kali’s fierceness and courage? Could we give ourselves permission to laugh when we tumble out of tree pose, or to explore a new bind in side angle pose? Can we be willing to embrace the practice without needing to do each pose perfectly?

The edge in yoga, like Kali, strips away illusion. We may arrive on our mat seeking only flexibility or strength, but when we breathe at our edge and become fully present in the moment, we uncover hidden impatience, self-judgment or resistance. This is Kali’s dance. One that is fierce, uncompromising and yet profoundly liberating.

She does not allow us to cling to what is safe or familiar. Instead, she guides us to dissolve what no longer serves, so that we may step into the fullness of who we are.

Meeting your edge, then, becomes an act of devotion. Each inhale is a bow to the courage it takes to stay. Each exhale is a surrender into the unknown. In this way, yoga becomes a practice of Kali’s wisdom: fierce yet loving, destructive yet creative. When we meet our edge with awareness, we invoke her power to burn away illusion and to awaken what is real.

Ultimately, to meet your edge in yoga is to recognize that transformation always lives at the threshold. Kali teaches us not to fear this edge but to embrace it, for in the fire of challenge, we are purified. At the boundary of comfort, guided by the Dark Mother, we discover freedom.

Christy Abate is co-owner of The Angel Cooperative and The Angel Wing, located at 51 Ethan Hwy. in Ridgefield. The Angel Cooperative is a metaphysical store featuring the first Shungite Room in the U.S., while The Angel Wing serves as a spiritual center offering classes, workshops, certifications, energy work, yoga, qigong and more. Christy teaches yoga and workshops, co-leads a 200hour Yoga Teacher Training, and continues to guide students through a variety of transformative programs. See ad, page 14.

September 2025

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OFFERING $50 ON BOARD CREDIT FOR EACH CABIN.

Calendar of Events Please call ahead to confirm times and dates. Pre-register early to insure events will have a minimum number to take place. To place a calendar listing, email us before September 12 (for the October 2025 issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines on how to submit listings.

Sunday, September 28

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DEADLINE 9/12/25

Friday, September 5

Friday, September 19

Full Moon Circle with Plant Talk, Sound Bath + Meditation. 7–8 PM. Connect with lunar energy, healing plants, and sound. Free. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-2678203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Universal White Time Healing Certification Level 1 – 9/19: 6-9pm via Zoom. 9/20-9/21: 9:30am6:30pm in person. Ready to expand beyond limits and accelerate spiritual growth? UWT is a powerful healing modality offering deep soul healing, awakening, and enhanced abilities through light, love, color and time. Pre-registration required. $525. Crystal Music Healing 92 North Summit St. Southington.

Tinyurl.com/ClassDeposit50. Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841. Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com.

Sunday, September 7 Herbal Fundamentals: Nervous System Support. 2–3 PM. In-person or virtual class on medicinal herbal teas for the nervous system. $50.

Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown.

917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Monday, September 8 Inner Harmony: Sound Bath + Breathwork – 7:30pm. Transform your energy in 90 minutes.

Release stress, unlock emotions and restore calm for lasting renewal this fall. $180/4-sessions. $45/per session. BreakThru Fitness, 48 Union St, Stamford. CreateGrowFlow@gmail.com.Tinyurl.com/297njzrv.

Wednesday, September 10 Sip, Stretch & UnWine – 6-7pm. Join us for a one-hour mixed level yoga class with YogaSpace in the vineyard and then stay a while and enjoy a glass of your favorite Aquila’s Nest wine and snacks for purchase.Please bring your mat or a towel and any yoga props you would like to use $19. Aquila’s Nest Winery, 56 Pole Bridge Rd, Newtown. 203518-4352. AquilasNestVineyards.com.

Sunday, September 14 Herbal Fundamentals: Digestive Decoctions – 2-3pm. In-person or virtual class on decoctions for the digestive system. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203.

HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Tuesday, September 16 Energy-enhanced Crystal-sound Meditation – 6:30-8:30pm. Every third Tuesday. Join Sanaré Wellness & Bradford Tilden of Crystal Music Healing for three healings in one. $99. Sanaré Wellness, 92 N Summit St, Southington. 860-600-0106.

Tinyurl.com/EES-Crystal-Sound-Series.

Drum Circle – 7-8:30pm. Experience the power of rhythm, self-expression and deep connection with others through this fun and transformative drum circle led by Kevin Makarewicz. No experience needed. Bring your own drum or use the ones provided. $20 per person. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Saturday, September 20 Mini-Retreat Day – 9am-5pm. This healing workshop will open your mind to the power of numbers beyond your imagination. $89 per workshop; $60 for buffet. Guest House and Retreat and Conference Center, 318 Main St, Chester. 860-322-5770.

YourHolisticEvents.com/retreat.

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. Sign-up for those who wish to perform is from 6:30-6:55 pm. Singers, comedians, poets, writers, musicians and more are welcome. September’s featured entertainer: Amy Persons. $15 cover at the door. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-8557922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Sunday, September 21 Holistic Benefit Expo – 12-4pm. Featuring indoor and outdoor vendors. Free admission. VFW Post 574, 7 Northwest Dr, Plainville. YourHolisticEvents.com.

Herbal Fundamentals: Tinctures for Heart Health – 2-3pm. Craft an herbal tincture for heart health to take home. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Harmonious Renewal: Fall Reiki Sound Healing – 3-4:30pm. Welcome Fall with Reiki and sound healing—gongs, bowls, drumming and tuning forks—for deep relaxation, renewal and fresh energy alignment. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Tuesday, September 23 Drop-In and Connect: Guided Meditation – 7:30-8:20pm. Take a mindful pause at the end of your day with simple, guided meditation to help you relax, recenter and reconnect—with yourself and what matters most. We’ll close with a little time for quiet or shared reflection—whatever feels right for you. $15. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

Wednesday, September 24 An Evening of Energy & Intention – 6:15-8:15pm.

Join us for an uplifting, restorative 2-hour experience designed to help you release stress, gain clarity, and leave feeling deeply renewed. $25. Evolve Fit RX, 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 200, Stamford. Tinyurl.com/2uehuy7t.

Healing Power Hour – 12-1pm. Join us for a mini-healing session which may include massage therapy, Reiki, energy healing or meditation. Love offerings gratefully accepted. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Herbal Fundamentals: Herbal vinegars for Liver Support – 2-3pm. Learn to craft an herbal vinegar for liver support to take home. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Cosmic Shamanic Sound Bath – 4-5:15pm. Join master vibrational healer, Bradford Tilden for deeply restorative and energizing sound healing meditation featuring his voice and crystal bowls.

Props and mats are provided. $50. Hummingbird Healing Center, 57 Main St, 2nd Fl, Westport.

203-550-3390. HummingbirdHealingCenter.com.

Monday, September 29 Guided Meditation & Energy Healing at the Salt Cave of Darien – 6:30-7:45pm. Experience guided meditation and energy healing with Certified Reiki Master and Intuitive Coach Diane Nicosia. Diane will draw an Angel card for each participant, offering intuitive insights and gentle guidance to support your personal journey. iBalanceUThrive.com. $65.

Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-6587667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com.

Mark Your Calendar Center for Spiritual Development In-person and Virtual Services Every Sunday • 11am Virtual Drop-In Mediumship Practice & Guided Meditation with Rev. Hoy & Rev. James September 8, 15 & 22 • 7-9pm • $20 per session In-Person Tuesday Guided Meditations September 16, 23 & 30 • 9-9:45am In-Person: Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair Saturday, September 13 • 11am-4pm Free admission • Reservations accepted.

25-min Readings: $65 • Reiki Healing: $40 Virtual: Past Lives Message Circle With James Luse Wednesday, September 17 • 7-9pm • $35 Virtual: Healing Service Thursday, September 18 • 7-7:30pm (3rd Thursday of the Month) Virtual: Children's Lyceum Sunday, September 21 • 9:30-10:15am In-Person: Afternoon of Spiritual Connections Sunday, September 21 • 1-3pm • $45 (1) 15-min. Reiki Healing & (2) 15-min. Readings of choice: Mediumship, Tarot, Angel Cards, Astrology, Numerology Center for Spiritual Development 293 Sound Beach Ave Old Greenwich • 203-637-4615 Email: CSDPastor@gmail.com Website: Center4Spiritualdev.org

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Brain Gain

Mark Your Calendar Annual Support-A-Walk Presented by Support Connection, Inc.

Coming in October

Mark Your Calendar 12th New Age & Crafts Expo Sponsored by Natural Awakenings

October 5

November 2 • 10am-5pm

Bring help and hope to people

Come Experience a Day of Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment

fighting breast and ovarian cancer.

Walk with us in FDR Park or wherever you are! There Are Many Ways To Help: Donate • Raise Funds Form a Team • Spread the Word Volunteer • Make a Difference!

SupportConnection.org 914-962-6402

Intuitive Readers & Healers • Aura Photos Crystals & All Your Spiritual Needs Handcrafted Gifts • Health & Wellness Reiki Circle • So Much More!

2 rooms of dynamic speakers and much more! $6 Admission • $1 off with this coupon Wyndham Southbury 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury Vendor Space Still Available 203-733-6560 • Cryours87@yahoo.com

Work from and what you do.

A LIFE-CHANGING OPPORTUNITY Natural Awakenings is celebrating 30+ years of publishing and growing!

OWN YOUR OWN FRANCHISE Call today: 239.206.2000 Scan code to learn more.

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Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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Ongoing Events

Sunday Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30-11:30am.

Bring whatever faith you are currently experiencing and join us to celebrate the Spirit within. All are welcome. We meet every Sunday from 10:3011:30am. Love offerings gratefully accepted. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am.

Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

The Awareness Project Co. Monthly Support Call – 5-6pm. Second Sunday. This conference call is for people affected by targeted harassment and electronic monitoring. We provide a safe, judgment free environment for survivors to rediscover their voice, share and find resources. Dial in number: 774-290-2200. Conference ID: 3733840.

Monday TLC Online Holistic Networking Morning – 8:30-10am. 2nd Mon. We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).

Kundalini Yoga with Janet Aspen – 11am12:15pm. Kundalini yoga is a comprehensive ancient practice that combines movement, mantra, breathwork and meditation to facilitate the most efficient use of our innate energy. It clears blocks, increases vitality and creates alignment in body. $25.

The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Tuesday Rise and Shine: Guided Meditation – 7:30-8am.

Second & Fourth Tuesday. Take 30 minutes to fuel your morning with a refreshing burst of calm and clarity. This guided meditation will help you start your day grounded, focused and ready to go—no experience needed. $10. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

TLC Networking Breakfast in Norwalk – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities and fun! $20. Valencia, 164 Main St, Norwalk. 203TLC.com.

Yogalates – 9:30-10:45am. Pilates-Yoga fusion tones glutes, thighs and abs. Low-impact, boosts fitness. Develop core strength, flexibility and alignment. Enhance posture. Improve fitness level. $22. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Gentle Yoga with Christy Abate – 10-11am. This class offers the benefits of a yoga practice while being conscious of injury and limitations. Class size limited to 10. Open to all levels. First class free (Code: CHRISTY). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-4312959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Self-Care for Caregivers – 2-2:45pm. Second Tuesday. You spend so much time caring for others—this circle is a chance to care for you. Breathe, unwind and reconnect with yourself, in the company of others who understand. You’ll leave with simple, supportive practices to carry into daily life.

Free. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

TLC Holistic Networking Evening in Newtown – 6-7:30pm. Last Tuesday of each month. Calling all healthy living entrepreneurs and practitioners. Tribe TLC is a group of like-minded holistic practitioners and wellness entrepreneurs with a common mission to help and heal. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203TLC.com.

Drop In and Connect: Guided Meditation – 7:308:20pm. Second & Fourth Tuesday. Take a mindful pause at the end of your day with simple, guided meditation to help you relax, recenter and reconnect—with yourself and what matters most. We’ll close with a little time for quiet or shared reflection—whatever feels right for you. $15. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

Wednesday Mass Energy Healing with Aggregata – 10am12pm. A chance to gather with others in a safe, high-vibrational space and receive deep energetic renewal, emotional clarity, and alignment with Source energy, guided by seasoned healer Aggregata Zupanova in the sacred setting of The Granite Church. $25/suggested donation. The Granite Church, 5 N Main St, Redding. Tinyurl. com/3cd276dm.

Gentle Yoga with Christy Abate – 11am-12pm.

This class offers the benefits of a yoga practice while being conscious of injury and limitations.

Class size limited to 10. Open to all levels. First class free (Code: CHRISTY). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield.

203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

TLC Networking Happy After Hours in New Milford – 4:30-6:30pm. Second Wednesday. Opportunity to meet people in a relaxed atmosphere and make connections and celebrate good times. The Abbey, 132 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-856-9566. 203TLC.com.

TLC Online Holistic Networking Evening – 6-7:30pm. Last Wednesday of the month. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many marketing opportunities and fun. Online via Zoom. For logon info please RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. 203TLC.com.

A Course of Love (ACOL) – 7pm. Join this discussion group centered around Mari Perron’s channeled book, A Course of Love. Let’s join our hearts and minds together as we share insights and life experiences while integrating A Course of Love into our everyday lives. All are welcome. No ACOL experience needed. Love offerings gratefully accepted. $15. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm.

Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Religion Meet – 7-8:30pm. What is the purpose of life? Our intent is to address these issues through lectures, readings and guided group discussions. We will present ancient concepts, cutting-edge theories, speculations, assertions, data, and most of all, thought-provoking ideas for discussion. Free. Aleph Talks, 606 Post Rd East, Ste 667, Westport. AlephTalks.com.

Thursday All Levels Vinyasa with Jackie Jackson – 9:3010:30am. 4th Thur. Open to all bodies, ages and abilities. Jackie is a seasoned yoga teacher who is skilled at cueing and sequencing to all students.

First class free (Code: JACKIE). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Spirituality Meet – 7-9pm. Bart Stuck (applied mathematician and physicist) and Marjorie Partch (Jungian astrologer) lead these weekly discussions, which follow readings and lectures on ancient concepts and cuttingedge theories, presenting fresh alternatives to the apparent dichotomy that. To participate via ZOOM: BartStuck@gmail.com. Free. AlephTalks.com.

Friday Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm. First Friday. With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. Learn Reiki 1st level, from an experienced Reiki Master/ Teacher (29 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others.

Helpful for stress reduction and more. Two Manuals and certificate included (4 attunements), private classes offered). Please call to register. Prepayment required. This Workshop is also held on the first Saturday of the month, pick one date. Please no drop-ins. $135. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

Ah, September! You are the doorway to the season that awakens my soul.

—Peggy Toney Horton September 2025

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Ongoing Events

Classified

Qi Gong with Josh Liebling – 11am-12pm. Qi Gong helps us release stress and transform into feeling refreshed, renewed and enlivened, with an undercurrent of peace and tranquility. Come experience routines that are not just powerful, but also fun and carry a sense of wonder and play. First class free (Code: JOSH). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-4312959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Friday Night Fun Networking – 6:30-8pm.

First Friday. With Beth Leas of Tribe TLC. Each month will feature a fun activity designed to enhance getting to know one another . RSVP to Beth Leas at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Free. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642.

TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Monthly Yoga Mom’s Night Out – 7-9pm. Second Friday. Join us for an evening that’s all about reclaiming you time. Calm your mind and body with candlelight yoga, a few other experiences.

Space is limited to 16 moms, so please pre-register. $40. Come with a friend and get a special gift. $40.

Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Saturday Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. Discuss various works on topics such as self-study, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. Discussion followed by 30-minute guided meditation. Proceeds donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250.

WeAreYogaCulture.com.

In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 1011:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice.

All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Must register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm.

Fifth Saturday. with Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/ Teacher. Learn Reiki Second (Reiki2) level, from an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher (29 years).

Private classes are offered. Includes latest info.

Two powerful energy connections included, from Gigi’s short Japanese Usui Lineage. Two manuals and certificate included. Prepayment required. This workshop is also held on last Friday and Saturday of the month, pick one date. Please no drop-ins. 203852-1150. $225. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

Restorative Yoga – 4-5:30pm. First Sunday. With Liz Wendel. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Join us in Salt Lake City

25TH ANNUAL WISE TRADITIONS CONFERENCE! October 17-19, 2025 • wisetraditions.org Three-Day Conference with Five Farm-to-Table Meals

40 speakers • 75 exhibitors • 1200 attendees Saturday Night Banquet • Volunteer Opportunities Optional: Thursday Evening: Real Milk Celebration Dinner Monday: Farm Tour with Will Winter and Steve Campbell CEUs for nurses, acupuncturists & NANP nutritionists Children’s program

Register today at wisetraditions.org!

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Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

For Rent

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE- NORWALK – Associates In Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care located at 156 East Ave, Norwalk right off exit 16 I-95. We have 2 separate rooms available to rent. Perfect for another professional such as LMT, IBCLC, LCSW, etc. looking for inexpensive professional space (includes weekly cleaning, utilities, and has shared common reception and bathroom). Please contact Dr. Mark Joachim: 203-856-8520.

Help Wanted WILTON, CT SALON Seeks, PT receptionist, PT shampoo assistant. Stylists, and barbers. Aspiring cosmetologists for blow dry assistant position. Call/Text Michele: 203-286-9632.

Community Resource Guide

Holistic Physical Therapy

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

ALCHEMY PHYSICAL THERAPY

Chiropractic

CERESET WESTPORT

UPPER CERVICAL DOC

Crista Mathew, Owner/ Tech Coach 18 Kings Hwy N, Westport 203-557-3299 Info@Westport.Cereset.com Cereset.com/Centers/Cereset-Westport Cereset (Cerebrum + Reset) is a proven, non-invasive technology that helps your brain naturally release stress, restoring balance and flexibility. In just five sessions, clients often experience deeper sleep, improved mood, increased energy, sharper memory, enhanced focus and better emotional regulation. See ad, page 8.

Cave Rental/Unique Gathering Space SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 • Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com Our wellness destination offers an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends and family, the Cave is inviting, warm and soothing. Check out our website for the many different ways to experience the benefits of our healing salt! See ad, back cover.

CBD/Hemp Wellness HEMP LIFESTYLE

Valerie Aloisio, founder 203-521-2396 Valerie@HempLifestyleNetwork.com HempLifestyle.net Discover Balance with Hemp Lifestyle. Support your body’s natural wellness with premium, organic hemp products.

Trusted by physicians, triple lab-tested and U.S. Hemp Authority-certified, our cannabinoids help optimize sleep, mood, immunity and recovery. Visit HempLifestyle.net to learn more. See ad, page 5.

Dr. Walter Trinidad, DC 161 East Ave, Ste 14, Norwalk 203-822-1461 • UpperCervicalDoc.org Experience relief from chronic pain, migraines, and stress with our gentle, precise upper cervical chiropractic care. Restore balance, revitalize health. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Trinidad, dedicated Upper Cervical Doc.

Education EMBODY THE SACRED

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com EmbodyTheSacred.net Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred.

Herbal Medicine HERBS LOVE AND YOGA

111 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook 917-267-8203 HerbsLoveAndYoga.com Learn plants with us @HerbsLoveAndYoga Herbs Love and Yoga is a Herbal Medicine School and Shop offering herbalist certifications, workshops, and in-house made herbal products. Shop teas, tinctures, flower essences, and CBD online or visit our Sandy Hook storefront. Yoga & reiki are also offered.

Eliminate headaches, neck/back pain, stress and more. Improve wellness with unique, individualized, hands on 1:1 care. Lisa has over 25 years experience as a physical therapist specializing in integrative manual therapy, MFR, acupressure and craniosacral techniques.

Holistic Teachings INTUITIVE ARTS BY RONA JAN 475-290-0469 RJIintuitiveArts@gmail.com IntuitiveArtsByRonaJan.com

The healing journey takes time, practice and patience. Rona will guide you by using different tools from energy healing to creating personalized practice guide books for all including specialized guidebooks for caregivers of children. Explore Rona’s handcrafted, holistic product line.

Integrative Natural Medicine 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 and hormone evaluation. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

Africa Studio on AdobeStock.com

Alternative Wellness

Lisa Mammano PT, IMTC Stamford AlchemyPhysicalTherapy.com Lisa@AlchemyPhysicalTherapy.com

September 2025

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Integrative Optometry

Metaphysical Store

Reiki

EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Dr. Krupa Baxi • Dr. Allie Decker Dr. Jason Grygier • Dr. Ken Landesman Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh Dr. Magy Tepliz • Dr. Matthew Weatherbee LOCATIONS: 6515 Main St., Trumbull,• 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave., Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd., Southport • 203-255-4005 992 High Ridge Rd., 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 572 US-6, Mahopac, NY • 845-628-3750 103 S Bedford Rd., Mount Kisco, NY • 914-241-2020 CTNYEyecare.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. Call to schedule your appointment today.

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative) The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique and metaphysical store, home to the USA’s first Shungite Room. Explore crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils, divination tools, oracle decks, and more. The Shungite Room offers energy sessions, readings, reiki, workshops and guided meditation, all led by experienced practitioners. Shungite, known for its antioxidant fullerenes, is believed to have powerful healing properties. Our offerings are designed to stir the soul and support innate healing. See ad, page 14.

Naturopathic Physician NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Meditation CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234) 2-ACU-DOC • DrNicoleKlughers.com Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates selfawareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions such as personalized nutrition (food as medicine), herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food sensitivities, gut/microbiome and more. See ad, page 13.

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 • ReddingMeditation.org

Medium DR. ELIZABETH RAVER, PHD Evidential Psychic Medium 203-400-9212 RavElizabeth516@gmail.com DrLizMedium.com

Offering services in evidential psychic mediumship and light trance, including classes, mentoring, workshops, and private/group readings, available via Zoom, phone, or in person. Affiliated with the American Association of Psychics and Spiritualists National Union International (SNUi). See ad, page 13.

Psychotherapy NANCY S. SCHERLONG, LCSW, CHHC, SEP, CP, PTR/CJT-CM

Coaching • Psychotherapy • Consulting 470 Main St, Ridgefield 914-572-3167 • WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover 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 of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 7.

In youth, we learn; in age, we understand.

—Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach 38

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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.

Salt Healing Therapy Wellness Center SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

787 Main St, S Woodbury 203-586-1172 • NaturalSaltHealing.com Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit.

Sound Healing THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative) The Angel Wing offers diverse workshops, retreats, energy work, readings, Reiki, massage, sound healing, meditation, acupuncture, Qi Gong, and yoga classes. We also provide certification courses in Reiki, Crystal Healing, Meditation, Sound Healing and more—designed to uplift and align with New Earth energies. . See ad, page 14.

Sound Healing HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing.

She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 6.

Spiritual Center UNITY CENTER OF NORWALK

Betsy Woods Brooks or Miranda Agosto 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-855-7922 Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org UnityCenterNorwalk.org Unity Center of Norwalk is a spiritual co-op that offers a positive, practical, progressive approach to Spirituality. We’re about building community, deepening spirituality and transforming lives. Sunday services at 10:30am. Visit UnityCenterNorwalk.org for our monthly events calendar. See ad, page 7.

Support Group THE AWARENESS PROJECT CO. 65 High Ridge Rd, Ste.102,Stamford 1:1 Support: 844-373-3840 Tinyurl.com/TheAwarenessProject

Have you ever been affected by targeted harassment and electronic monitoring. We provide a safe, judgment free environment for survivors to rediscover their voice, share and find resources. Visit our website or email us ConnectWithOthertis@gmail.com for more information, dates and times of monthly support/conference call.

Transformative Healing KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach, Shamanic Healer 203-820-3800 TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com TransformationCenterCT.com Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real self-acceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, back cover.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person Sessions 203-856-9566 • BethLeas.com

Universal White Time Healing BRADFORD W. TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT 92 North Summit St, Southington 860-830-5841 Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com

Become certified in Universal White Time Healing! Bradford is one of the pioneering teachers and practitioners of this exclusive and incredible new global healing modality given to us by our ET allies for our healing, spiritual growth, and the awakening of humanity. With White Time there is no limit to how strong a healer you can become, or how high you can spiritually evolve. See ad, page 13.

Voice & Sound Coaching HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Improve your voice, expand your range, find your ‘goldilocks’ note using soul singing, improvisation and ‘one with sound’ exercises. Learn from a certified vocal yoga teacher, sound healer and experienced performer who has studied with Bobby Mcferrin, Silvia Nakkach and Heather Lyle. Some of her music can be found at WiseFishWorld.com. Online Zoom groups and one on one sessions. See ad, page 6.

Yoga THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative) The Angel Cooperative offers diverse yoga classes at The Angel Wing, our spiritual center next door. Classes include vinyasa, gentle, yin, kundalini, restorative (with tarot/sound immersion), yoga nidra, Yoga Alliance® 200hr Teacher Training, and workshops. Save 20% on Yoga Packages + enjoy a free first class!

Our teachers believe yoga is for everyone— every body, every level. See ad, page 14.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 6.

Wellness Center HAUTE HEALING OASIS

Jessica & Peter Chichester 792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 • Info@HauteHealingOasis.com HauteHealingOasis.com HHO is your feel-great place!

A 3,500-square-foot wellness spa and healing center featuring over a dozen wellness services in a caring feng shui inspired atmosphere. If you need relaxation, detoxification, body contouring or rehabilitation services, then you should check them out.

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, back cover.

September 2025

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203 TLC TRIBE TLC

Tribe TLC is your healthy living go-to resource network. We are a vibrant and growing community of 150+ holistic practitioners and wellness entrepreneurs meeting throughout CT and beyond since 1997. TLC Members are committed to living consciously and offer a wide variety of healthy lifestyle opportunities designed to help you live life well.

We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and events.

VISIT US: www.TribeTLC.com • www.203TLC.com • FB: Tribe TLC • 203-856-9566 Career Coach/Kolbe Consultant Thea Litsios, Certified Career Coach and Kolbe Consultant. Find the career or college major that is in alignment with your natural talents and strengths.

Discover the joy of having a career that is right for you!

Thealitsios.com • 203-693-1493

Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot Beth Leas 30+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Integrative Life Coach/Meditation Ingrida Perri, Spirit In Training, LLC Unlock potential and purpose with integrative coaching, meditation, and group classes - designed to support your growth, balance, and well-being. ingrida@spiritintraining.com SpiritInTraining.com • 475-291-1693

Life Coach

Lyme Disease Healing

Salt Cave

Diane Nicosia, MBA, ibalanceLLC Certified Coach & Reiki Master Teacher. Move forward toward your personal & business goals. In person or Zoom.

NicosiaDiane@gmail.com ibalanceuthrive.com 203-858-5848

Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing.

528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725

Salt Cave of Darien Salt therapy, massage, meditation, yoga & more!

555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

Transformation Coaching/Healing

VISIT US TODAY!

Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Evolution Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800

w w w.203TLC.com w w w.TribeTLC.com FB: Tribe TLC 203-856-9566

Get to know us at TLC’s monthly networking breakfast!

Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, networking events, many marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00a.m.

Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place.

40

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com