September 2017 NAHVW by NAHVW

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good â&#x20AC;˘ live simply â&#x20AC;˘ laugh more

FREE

GRACEFUL

AGING Ways to Find

Fulfillment, Creativity and Meaning page 18

TRUE

Beauty

It's Not What Meets the Eye page 31

Nature's Classroom

Outdoor Learning Engages the Whole Child

page 38

Rodney Yee on Yoga as a Way of Life

Simple Strategies for Staying on Track page 26

September 2017 | Hudson Valley West Edition | naturalawakeningsro.com

Meet Your

Natural Match On Our Newly Upgraded Website We invite you to join and experience a truly conscious, loving, dating environment with amazing members. In partnership with the Conscious Dating Network, upgrades include a new, contemporary, responsive layout for all devices; a dynamic search engine; and an improved matching system. Autumn is here; be proactive by joining today. Your natural match is waiting to meet you!

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contents 11

6 11 12 14 22 26 27 31 32 33 34 36 38 39 41 44 45

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, green lifestyle.

newsbriefs ecotip healthbriefs globalbriefs healingways fitbody yogaprofiles inspiration consciouseating foodieguide naturalpet wisewords healthykids communityspotlight localcalendar resourceguide classifieds

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 845-480-9006 or email publisher@naturalawakeningsro.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month prior to the desired publication month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: editor@naturalawakeningsro.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month prior to the desired publication month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS For guidelines and to submit entries, go to NaturalAwakeningsRO.com/calendar/. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month prior to the desired publication month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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16 FINANCIAL TIP

Government’s Decision Expands Retirement Flexibility

17 LOCAL AUTHOR PROFILE

Life and Death: We Are All That by Ronnie Figueroa

18 AGING WITH PASSION AND PURPOSE

Finding Fulfillment, Creativity and Meaning

by Deborah Shouse

21 AGING WITH POWER AND GRACE by Ed D’Urso

22 THE VALUE OF MASSAGE FOR SENIORS

by Bethany Mutone

23 MOMENTS TO

TEACH AND LEARN MADE POSSIBLE BY HOSPICE

by Janice Valentino

24 THE BENEFITS OF

RESTORATIVE YOGA

by Laura Kallen

30 CREATING CHANGE THROUGH YOGA by Paula Heitzner

39 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Peace Through Play natural awakenings

39 September 2017

letterfrompublisher

contact us Publisher Deborah Turner Editor Erin Floresca Assistant Editors S. Alison Chabonais Sharon Bruckman Design & Production Citlalli Jabeir Distribution Expert Courier Systems To contact Natural Awakenings:

Nyack, NY 10960 Phone: 845-480-9006 Email: publisher@naturalawakeningsro.com NaturalAwakeningsRO.com

Become a fan of Natural Awakenings Lower Hudson Valley West on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter at publishernaro. © 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 for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

hen I mentioned to my 13-year-old daughter Jadyn that I needed to write my publisher letter for this month, she said that since there is a yoga feature I should write about how I do yoga every morning and that her 4-year-old sister Zoe often joins me. When she was younger, Jadyn also used to do yoga with me, leading me through a series of movements and ending with a deep breath. Going further back in my yoga practice, I recently told Jadyn that when I first started practicing yoga I would watch Rodney Yee yoga VHS tapes (yes, tapes, not DVDs or streaming, etc.). I was delighted to see that local yoga teacher Rae Broderick also started her yoga journey in a similar manner. You can learn more about her and our many other wonderful yoga teachers in our Yoga Teacher Profiles beginning on page 27. In our Fit Body column, Rodney Yee offers ways to maintain a consistent yoga practice (see page 26). These days, restorative yoga is my favorite. Local yoga teacher Laura Kallen shares the benefits of this wonderfully nourishing practice (see page 24). On the topic of nourishing practices, I recently realized that the only difference between meditation and medication is just one letter. One certainly can attest that meditation is a great form of medication with only positive side effects, helping to reduce stress, fatigue and more. Meditation has many healing properties and helps foster an optimistic, fully present mindset. Remembering to be present was helpful this morning when I had to drive Jadyn to a really early field hockey practice, which also meant getting a reluctant Zoe in the car at this very early time. In our feature article, Aging with Passion and Purpose, Deborah Shouse explains how a conscious mindset can help us age well (see page 18). She offers nine tips such as cultivating a positive attitude, helping the world and exploring the arts. My Great Aunt Vic always has been my inspiration for living life fully. I fondly remember her dancing with joy at my sister’s wedding when she was in her mid-90s. Local massage therapist Bethany Mutone shares the enjoyment her grandmother experienced when she had her very first massage at the age of 84. The benefits of massage for seniors are numerous (see page 22). Even though the summer warmth soon will be yielding to the crisper fall air, being out in nature can help us be present and mindful. When children learn to embrace this connection at a young age, it stays with them always and keeps them more attuned to the world around them. In Nature’s Classroom, Meredith Montgomery explains why outdoor learning helps develop the whole child and how nature journaling at any age cultivates important skills and creativity (see page 38). I will end this letter with the lyrics to a Zoe original song, sang from the back seat of our car recently. It may be even more fitting in light of the recent eclipse. The sun loves you so the sun will come out again. With Joy,

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). Please contact Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsRO.com.

Deborah Turner

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

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The most important pieces of equipment you need for doing yoga are your body and your mind. ~Rodney Yee

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natural awakenings

September 2017

New Outdoor Skills Program at The Birch School

“A

t the Birch School we aim to bring joy to learning. The Birch School is a mixed age learning community based on the ideas of ecology. We value diversity and spontaneity, and emphasize the interconnections, patterns and systems that make a community,” shares founder and school director Kate Fox. Making sure that students are happy and healthy is an important part of the program. Each student has their own individualized plan and participates in classes, including, history, math, English, programming, engineering, life sciences and independent projects. Birch offers multiple opportunities for hands-on learning. Students at Birch lead their own assessment conferences every quarter and participate in a regular showcase of student work to demonstrate their learning. “In our 6th year, we are excited to introduce an outdoor skills program and part time home school program in addition to our full time program for students ages 7 to 18,” explains Fox. The Birch School’s faculty are highly experienced, caring teachers who treat each student at the valuable individual they are. The Birch School is part of the LRNG Educator Innovator Network and is supported by the National Writing Project. In July, Fox participated in a National Resource Development Retreat in Denver, Colorado with sixty educators from around the United States. Her blogs about connected learning are at thecurrent.educatorinnovator. org/resource/6768. Location: 9 Vance Rd. Rock Tavern, in eastern Orange County near I-84 and ten minutes from the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge. Call 645-7772 to schedule a tour or learn more. See ad, page 38. 6

Hudson Valley West

newsbriefs Protect Your Loved Ones

ocal attorney Tom O’Connell realizes that planning for a disability or death is something that no one looks forward to. “However, it is something that results in feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction because you know that you’ve delivered a lasting expression of love to those you have provided for and will leave behind,” he shares. According to O’Connell, such planning may lengthen our lives by eliminating some of our stress. His law firm, O’Connell & Riley, has prided itself on over 40 years of Tom O’Connell providing sensitive and personalized legal services in the areas of estate planning, elder law, Medicaid planning and estate administration. “Do you want to wait until your loved one is on the verge of going into a nursing home? Do you want your children to know that you have planned for them?” asks O’Connell. “Optimally, Medicaid planning should be done at least five years prior to application to avoid the ‘five-year look back’ for nursing home/Medicaid applications. Protect yourself and your loved ones from losing your assets by planning now.” Tom O’Connell and Jim Riley are available to help provide each client peace of mind so that they know their loved ones will be provided for. Necessary documentation includes a will, advance health care directive, power of attorney and medicaid asset protection trust. Tom O’Connell is an attorney at O’Connell & Riley, Esqs, aiding clients in estate planning, elder law and estate litigation. His office is located at 144 East Central Ave. in Pearl River. He can be reached at 845-735-5050 or toconnell@orlawpro.com. See ad, page 14.

New Mindfulness Matters Group begins October 3rd

ally Nazari, PsyD, licensed psychologist, Usui Reiki Master Teacher and Jikiden Reiki practitioner, is excited to announce a new Mindfulness Matters Group beginning October 3. The group will be held on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. through November 22. “You may have heard the buzz about my Sally Nazari Mindfulness Matters group and might find yourself wondering what a typical group is like. In fact, you might even be wondering what Mindfulness is all about,” says Nazari. “Mindfulness refers to a practice of paying attention on purpose to the present moment devoid of judgments.” In this group, Nazari shows participants how to recognize their self-judgments and inner critic. “I use concrete and creative techniques to teach members how to recognize these judgments as a story they’ve been telling themselves that’s untrue and unhelpful,” she explains. “Then, we work on practical skills to rewrite the story as a more accurate and empowered one to create confidence and improve selfesteem.” Each week begins with an activity for the members to get to know each other. “Then I introduce a new skill using an activity to help the participants get a clearer understanding of that skill and make it applicable to them in their daily lives,” says Nazari. “Groups are an amazing way to learn how to express ourselves and understand that we are not alone.” Sally Nazari, PsyD, provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in Nyack. For more information, call 236-5612 or visit DrSallyNazari.com. See ad, page 22.

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The Reform Temple of Rockland Welcomes New Director of Congregational Learning

t The Reform Temple of Rockland (RTR), everyone comes together – interfaith couples, LGBTQ families, the young and the young at heart – to create a warm Jewish community. Their worship is enriched with their Cantor’s gifted voice, their Rabbi’s wit and “rock star" guitar playing and their volunteer choir and Rock Shabbat band. See for yourself why so many find the family-friendly Friday night services and youth, tot and adult programs so inspiring. The RTR community is pleased to welcome Brad Zicholtz as the Director of Congregational Learning, enhancing an already dynamic team of Rabbi Benjamin Sharff and Cantor Sally Neff. Brad Zicholtz Zicholtz spent the past 15 years as the Director of Experiential Education at Temple Shaaray Tefila in Bedford Corners, where he directed experiential learning and planned Jewish educational events for several hundreds of students of all ages (grades K-12) every year. ”My work has been dedicated to inspiring students to live the value of V'ahavta L'reiacha Kamocha, love your neighbor as yourself,” explains Zicholtz. He is well-regarded for his work with cutting-edge educational programming, experience-based learning, consensus building and groundbreaking synagoguebased Jewish education programs that incorporate teen leadership building and social action projects. Zicholtz also is looking forward to expanding the adult learning opportunities for the many life-long learners at RTR. Come experience Joyful Judaism. The caring clergy, staff and congregation look forward to meeting you. Location: 330 North Highland Ave., Upper Nyack. For more information, contact Jolie at 358-2248 or jolie@rtrny.org. Learn more at RTRNY.org. See ad, page 11.

We’ll give you an assist on your future goals.

Contact us to learn how you can get the most out of retirement. Sara K. Hall, M.A. Agent, New York Life Insurance Company 460 Temple Hill Road New Windsor, NY 12553 203-962-2329 shall@ft.newyorklife.com www.hudsonvalley.nyloffices.com/Sara-Hall Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. SMRU1713827 (Exp.10/25/2018) ©2017 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

Insure. Invest. Retire.

Ignite Your Soul’s Purpose in Oceans’ Yoga Teacher Training

“L

ive the magic of your practice, passion and purpose,” invites Colby Rolando, E-RYT 500. BeginColby Rolando ning this October, in Orange’s newest state of the art hot studio and wellness center offering hot yoga, warm Vinyasa and alignment classes, as well as life coaching and various healing arts, is Oceans of Calm’s 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training. Ocean’s Yoga Alliance accredited six month yoga training is an incredible journey of self-discovery, transformation, and expansion that will set you up for a lifelong study into the sacred path of yoga and help you become a clear, compassionate and effective yoga teacher. Their comprehensive curriculum was developed and will be led by Colby Rolando and will provide a deep exploration of the philosophy and timeless teachings of yoga, an in-depth study of asana alignment, sequencing, meditation and pranayama, and a powerful foundation of knowledge, practical skills and in-classroom experience. Colby Rolando has been following her passion for the last decade teaching group classes, workshops and international yoga retreats. As one student shares, “Colby is an amazing yoga teacher. Taking her class has transformed my understanding of each pose and enlightened my practice.” She also works one on one with individuals as a Personal Mastery Coach and Energy Healing Practitioner and Teacher helping them to cultivate greater peace, fulfillment and joy in their lives. Location: 549 Rte. 17, Tuxedo Park. To apply and for all details please contact colby@oceansofcalm.com or 637-5191. See ad, page 31.

natural awakenings

September 2017

Learn to Live Yoga! Yoga Synthesis 200 Hour Holistic Approach Basic Teacher Training to Drug and Alcohol to take the next step in deepening your pracDependence “Ready tice and knowledge of yoga?,” asks Raji Thron,

ocal holistic doctor, John Lichtenstein, MD, is passionate about helping his patients overcome chemical and alcohol dependence. He shares, “Chemical dependence and alcoholism are social, spiritual and biochemical diseases which can be fatal if not treated.” At his offices in Kerhonkson and Kingston, he provides whole-life holistic medicine and well-being services to treat physical and mental ailments as well as issues such as drug and alcohol abuse. “These conditions can be treated with counseling in our office and with attendance in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings which are essential. Detoxification also can be done in an outpatient setting. Active alcohol and benzodiazepine dependence must be detoxed in an inpatient setting,” he explains. According to Lichtenstein, the reason that drug and alcohol dependence are relapsing diseases is because they make people feel great in spite of contrary evidence. “They are often seen as the solution when they really make the problem worse,” he affirms. Lichtenstein uses holistic, Eastern and Western approaches for seniors, adults, adolescence and children for issues such as arthritis, back pain, headaches, muscle pain, tension and alcohol and drug abuse. He also offers a medically supervised weight loss program. In addition to being board certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, he is an attending physician at Kingston Hospital, Benedictine Hospital, Margaretville Hospital and Ellenville Regional Hospital. Locations: 6743 Route 209, Kerhonkson and 325 Albany Ave., Kingston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact 626-5500 or visit JohnLichtensteinMD.com. See ad, page 40.

Hudson Valley West

co-owner of Yoga Synthesis. “Do you love yoga and want to help others experience its life-changing benefits? Then join us and equip yourself with the knowledge, skill and a supportive community which that will help you to deepen your practice and have an inspiring and healing impact on those around you.” By joining Raji Thron’s program, you will be joining program that has graduated hundreds of accomplished teachers who are loved throughout the NY/NJ Metropolitan area. Yoga Synthesis has been training and certifying teachers for over 18 years. The training will prepare you to ease into the world of teaching yoga classes, private yoga clients and enlivening your own practice. The Yoga Synthesis Teacher Training gives a comprehensive view of the major yoga styles and methods while highlighting Classical Hatha, Krishnamacharya, Iyengar and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. Special presentations on Yin yoga, Kundalini yoga, Partner yoga and Thai yoga bodywork are given. Forms are compared and discussed to facilitate a broader understanding of the whole while continually emphasizing the core principles, Yoga philosophy and Ayurveda. Through this training’s diverse and integrative approach, you will learn to teach and embody various methods in a creative unique way. You will study anatomy and biomechanics in a way that makes it come alive, explore and experience how to feel and move prana and teach deeply-transformative subtle-body techniques, while you have fun connecting with a wonderful, lighthearted community. Locations: 787 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY and 225 N. Franklin Tpke., Ramsey, NJ. For more information, visit YogaSynthesis.com/teacher or call 201-8189642. See ad, page 26.

SoulHand Bodywork Opens in Valley Cottage

icensed Massage Therapist Magda Durante recently has launched SoulHand Bodywork in a beautiful new office in Valley Cottage. With fifteen years of experience at high-end spas in New York City and as an independent practitioner, she helps clients speed healing, relieve pain and improve function. Durante specializes in Myofascial Release Therapy (MRT), the gentle manual application of sustained pressure that releases restrictions in the web of connective tissue found throughout the body that may be trapping muscle and other tissues. MRT can relieve pain, restore movement and circulation and promote healing. “MRT complements other treatment modalities and can be a vital missing link for chronic pain sufferers,” she explains. She also offers Reiki and Integrative Somatic Therapy, modalities which help clients release energetic and emotional restrictions trapped in the body, helping clients overcome emotional and physical complaints which may have been plaguing them for years. “If you’re struggling to get to the next level with physical healing or emotional balancing, contact me today for a free consultation to see if these cutting edge modalities may benefit you,” invites Durante.

Location: 7 New Lake Rd., Valley Cottage. For your free consultation or to schedule an appointment, call 535-1160 or visit SoulHandBodywork.com. See ad, page 22.

naturalawakeningsro.com

Slow the Aging Process with Chiropractic Care

r. Janette Asaro Pena of Newburgh Chiropractic affirms that chiropractic care can help slow the aging process. “Chiropractic adjustments help the spinal joints to move properly which, in turn, ensures the nervous system works optimally. When the nervous system works well, all bodily functions are carried out with ease and not disease. When Dr. Janette Asaro Pena we are sedentary or don’t move all of our joints very often, arthritis ensues. Chiropractic care keeps arthritis at a minimum and keeps toxins from building in our joints and muscles. This allows for a longer, healthier life.” Dr. Pena treats patients of all ages and focuses on the relationship between nutrition, emotion and physical issues. She seeks the underlying cause of issues and corrects them using a holistic approach so her patients can reach their fullest innate potential. “My purpose is to help as many people as possible achieve better health. I often incorporate nutritional changes, home exercises and muscle stretching or yoga to help you achieve balance and optimal health in your body,” she says. Location: 3 Pierces Rd., Newburgh. For more information, email NewburghChiropractic@aol.com, call 561-6800 or visit NewburghChiropractor.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 44.

Enjoy a Safe and Active Lifestyle at Glen Arden

f you’re age 62 and older and looking for an active, independent lifestyle, with the assurance of available long-term care, Glen Arden is the perfect place for you. As the Hudson Valley region’s preeminent continuing care retirement community, Glen Arden gives you peace of mind by providing quality care as your living needs change over time. “Glen Arden is the Hudson Valley’s ideal retirement community,” said Donna Cornell, Glen Arden Board of Directors chairperson. “Glen Arden offers a one-ofa-kind lifestyle experience for people who may already live in the area or who are new to the Hudson Valley. There’s no other retirement community which offers the quality living we do with the availability of long-term care.” Glen Arden’s programs and activities promote an active and healthy lifestyle. For example, residents stay fit and connected to the outdoors with tennis, bocce ball, shuffleboard and miniature golf or by taking a walk along one of the trails. Residents also can participate in instructor-led wellness classes, enjoy cardio- and strength-training workouts at Glen Arden’s on-site Curves® fitness center, take refreshing swims in the indoor heated pool or be part of trips to a variety of local or regional destinations. ”We guarantee all of your long-term healthcare is covered, for life, with minimal out-of-pocket expenses,” said Cornell. “Our staff cares for the whole person – not just the physical concerns – offering specially-designed rehabilitation services, programs and activities to help foster resident involvement and provide intellectual and physical wellbeing.” Most importantly, Glen Arden offers peace of mind to those who live there and to their families who need to know their loved ones live in a setting where they’re happy, safe and well-cared for if needed. “Visit us today to find your future home,” added Cornell. “We know you’ll be impressed.” Location: 214 Harriman Dr., Goshen. For more information, contact 360-1400 or info@glenardenny.com or visit GlenArdenNY.com. See ad, page 19.

How Do I Leave the World in Peace? "The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at anytime." - Mark Twain

egardless of our age, 10 or 89, each day we get a little closer to the end of our earthly visit. We do not know if we will die young or old, but we will. We can use that meditative thought to motivate ourselves to appreciate our challenges and live the best life possible, keeping our worries in perspective. Please consider visiting Dying to Bloom, Natural Burial Boutique to learn more about how our burial choices impact the environment and the variety of burial options available. Location: 48 Burd St., Ste. 101, Nyack. For more information, contact Kerry Potter at 535-1567 or Dyingtobloom@gmail.com or visit DyingToBloom.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 44.

Meet & Connect with Like-Minded People and Grow Your Business The Holistic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a New Rockland County Chapter

Join us at our Monthly Meetings Sign up Today: 646-627-6641 NewCity@holisticchamberofcommerce.com HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/NewCity

natural awakenings

September 2017

he 16th Annual Integrative Medicine Conference: A Holistic Approach to Breast Health presented by Breast Cancer Options is being held October 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lecture Center at State University of New York (SUNY) in New Paltz. This one-day educational conference focuses on treating the whole person while addressing the value of mind, body and spirit; food as medicine; risk reduction strategies and the environmental links to cancer. “Separate fact from fiction,” shares Breast Cancer Options Executive Director, Hope Nemiroff. “Learn what options have scientific support behind them, and what is safe to combine with conventional methods of cancer therapy.” Speakers include Barry Boyd, MD, a pioneer in the field of integrative cancer care and Director of Integrative Medicine at Yale School of Medicine; Ronald Stram, MD, head of the Stram Center for Integrative Medicine; and Scott Berliner, RPh, natural pharmacist and lecturer from Life Science Pharmacy and Janet Gray, Phd environmental expert from Vassar College. Breast Cancer Options is an independent non-profit organization and the largest provider of free and unique breast cancer services in the Hudson valley. They are an organization of survivors and their supporters who understand that a woman diagnosed with breast cancer is suddenly faced with some of the most important decisions she will ever make about her own healthcare. Cost: $25; includes breakfast and lunch. Limited scholarships are available. For more information call 845-339-4673, email hopenemiroff@yahoo.com or visit BreastCancerOptions.org. See ad, page 24. 10

Hudson Valley West

Celebrate Art, Music, Wellness and Community at O+ Kingston Projectej.com Photography

Holistic Approach to Breast Health Conference

he eighth annual O+ Kingston, October 6-8, celebrates art, music, wellness and community in multiple venues throughout the Kingston neighborhoods of uptown, midtown and the Rondout. The festival features more than 50 bands, including Deerhoof, Steve Gunn, White Hills, Abdu Ali and local favorites The Mammals and The Big Takeover. More than 20 artists will make large-scale murals and create performance and installation works in response to the theme of HO+ME. The participating artists and musicians, many of whom are underinsured, receive complimentary health and wellness care in an Artists' Clinic staffed by volunteer providers as a thank you for the donation of their talent to the festival. The weekend's EXPLO+RE series is like a mini wellness retreat within the larger festival experience. It begins Friday evening with a two-hour yoga, guided relaxation and sound immersion. Then on Saturday and Sunday O+ audiences wearing allaccess wristbands are free to take as many one-hour classes at The Kirkland as they like. Choices include dance, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, sacred napping and lectures on health, wellness and self-care. A Gong Supreme on Sunday brings together the worlds of performance and sound healing at the back of BSP Kingston, a former Vaudevillian theater. A dozen gong players will create a sacred space filled with the cosmic sound Om. This transformative experience will be followed with a concert by festival headliners Deerhoof, a San Francisco-based rock band. .......A Literary SALO+N, wellness EXPO+ and cycling events round out the festival weekend offerings. Location: Throughout Kingston. For full lineup, schedule and allaccess wristbands, visit OPositiveFestival.org/Kingston. See ad, page 15.

Azaya Yoga Teacher Training

he next round of Azaya Yoga Teacher Trainings

begin this month at Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness in New City. Azaya Yoga Teacher Training was developed by Bridget Rawls Peterson, E-RYT 500, and Pauline Kalish, E-RYT 500 and Yoga Therapist, to help people get deeper into the practice and teachings of yoga. “We wanted a program that truly prepares people to bring yoga to others in a mindful, alignment-based, fully knowledgeable way,” shares Peterson. According to the pair, the 200-Hour Basic Training Program is an ideal fit for those seeking to become a yoga teacher or those wanting a deeper dive into their own practice. The 300-Hour Advanced Training Program (leading to a 500-Hour Certification) is designed for someone who has a 200-Hour Certification and is looking to deepen their knowledge and find their personal “niche” as a teacher. Both programs are Yoga Alliance Certified. “Life brings us to our yoga mat for many different reasons. Some people come to a yoga practice through an injury, others led by a friend, and others out of curiosity or a need to connect into themselves a little deeper. And with consistent practice our yoga can deepen and so can our desire to learn more. And for some the desire to learn more feeds into a desire to share with others,” adds Peterson. For more information, visit LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com or call 845-5385826. See ad, page 13.

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ecotip

Inspire Your Child with the Gift of a Jewish Education

Elder Force

Retired Volunteers Keep National Parks Humming

Elzbieta Sekowska/Shutterstock.com

etirees are volunteering at hundreds of nationally protected lands. They staff visitor centers, do maintenance, clean up debris and remind visitors to keep food items secure from wildlife. Last year, volunteers outnumbered National Park Service staff about 20 to one, expanding the financially strapped agency’s ability to serve hundreds of millions of visitors. Nearly a third of them are 54 and up, contributing to the 7.9 million service hours worked in 2015 by all 400,000 volunteers. Volunteer opportunities also exist at National Wildlife Refuge sites, fish hatcheries and endangered species field offices of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Sallie Gentry, volunteer coordinator for the Southeast Region, based in Atlanta, notes that Georgia’s Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge has a dozen designated spots for motor homes in its Volunteer Village. She says most volunteers are local retired residents whose working hours vary while RV volunteers commit to 20 hours a week for at least three months. In return, they get free hookups for electricity, sewage, propane and water. “They have skills they want to contribute, but are also looking for a social outlet,” notes Gentry. Cookouts and potlucks are common. She also cites the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge, an important migratory stop especially for songbirds, as a place with great appeal. “We supply uniforms, training, tools and orientations,” says Gentry. “It’s a mutually beneficial investment.” She suggests that individuals apply for specific sites at least a year in advance. Megan Wandag, volunteer coordinator for the USFWS Midwest Region, based in Minneapolis, cites the popular Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, in Bloomington, and the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, near Des Moines, as “oases near urban areas.” USFWS Southwest Region volunteer coordinator Juli Niemann highlights the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, in central New Mexico, that has 18 recreation vehicle spots and an average occupancy duration of five months. “It’s a prime wintering place for sandhill cranes.” Volunteer.gov updates site details and contact information at federal facilities nationwide.

Limited High Holy Tickets Ava Day ila Call Today! ble

School Registration for 2017-2018 Now Open

Help them Discover Joyful Judaism!

For more information, please contact our Director of Congregational Learning, Brad Zicholtz 845.358.2248 Ext. 107 or email brad@RTRny.org 330 North Highland Avenue (Rte. 9W) Upper Nyack, New York 10960 • www.RTRny.org A Reform Congregation Affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism

Listen Wednesdays at 3pm to

Connections with

Deborah Turner

on RocklandWorldRadio.com

A Radio Show Promoting Healthy Living and a Healthy Planet Each week features guests from our community

Archives available at RocklandWorldRadio.com /program/connections/ natural awakenings

September 2017

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

Farm to Table Twilight Dinner

Caring for Others Prolongs Life

at Cropsey Community Farm

Get Tickets at: RocklandFarm.org

Discover YOUR Possibilities Are you ready to uncover the keys that unlock the passion and its treasures in YOUR life? Marie Vega-Byrne Call me today to get started 914-443-7495 marie@beyondrubies.net Group & Individual Coaching

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esearchers from several international universities have found that seniors that provide caregivingservices live longer than those that do not. The scientists analyzed survival data and information collected from the Berlin Aging Study on 500 adults over the age of 69 from 1990 to 2009. They compared survival rates from the subjects that provided caregiving for children, grandchildren and friends to those that did not. Of the subjects analyzed, the half that took care of their grandchildren or children were still alive 10 years after their first interview in 1990. Caring for nonfamily members also produced positive results, with half of the subjects living for seven years after the initial interview. Conversely, 50 percent of those that did not participate in any caregiving had died just four years after their first interview. The researchers warn that caregiving must be done in moderation. Ralph Hertwig, director of the Center for Adaptive Rationality and the Max Planck Institute for Human Development, in Berlin, explains, “A moderate level of caregiving involvement seems to have positive effects on health, but previous studies have shown that more intense involvement causes stress, which has a negative effect on physical and mental health.”

Beetroot Juice Helps Older Brains Act Younger

eets contain high levels of dietary nitrate, which can increase blood flow and improve exercise performance. Researchers from Wake Forest University, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, tested the impact of consuming beetroot juice prior to exercise on the somatomotor cortex, the part of the brain that processes information from the muscles. Twenty-six older adults with hypertension that generally don’t exercise were split into two groups. Half were given a beetroot juice supplement with 560 milligrams of nitrate prior to a thrice-weekly, 50-minute treadmill walk for six weeks. The other half were given a placebo with very little nitrate. The beetroot juice group showed substantially higher levels of nitrate after exercising than the placebo group. “We knew going in that a number of studies had shown that exercise has positive effects on the brain,” explains W. Jack Rejeski, director of the Behavioral Medicine Laboratory in the Health and Exercise Science Department at Wake Forest and study co-author. “We showed that compared to exercise alone, adding a beetroot juice supplement for hypertensive older adults to exercise resulted in brain connectivity that closely resembles what is seen in younger adults.”

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Yoga Eases Eating Disorders

esearchers from Brown University, in Providence, Rhode Island, have found that regular yoga practice can help reduce anxiety and depression in young women with eating disorders. The scientists followed 20 girls between the ages of 14 and 18 that were enrolled in an outpatient eating disorder clinic that comprised the larger control group. Those selected agreed to participate in a weekly yoga class and complete questionnaires after six and 12 weeks, assessing their anxiety, depression and mood. Of those that started the study, five attended all 12 yoga classes and six completed between seven and 11 classes. Researchers found decreases in anxiety, depression and negative thoughts among those that participated in the yoga classes, with no negative side effects. Another study from the University of Delaware, in Newark, supports these results. Half of the 38 residential eating disorder treatment program participants did one hour of yoga prior to dinner for five days and the other half did not. The yoga group showed significant reductions in pre-meal anxiety compared to the control group.

esearchers from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, in Nashville, Tennessee, examined the effectiveness of tonsillectomies in children with recurring throat infections. Using data from nearly 10,000 studies of tonsillectomies, the scientists analyzed illness rates and quality of life for young patients following the surgery. The analysis found that children experienced a notable drop in school absences and infections in the first year after the surgery, but that these benefits did not persist over time. Dr. Siva Chinnadurai, an associate professor of otolaryngology and co-author of the report, believes, “For any child being considered a candidate for surgery, the family must have a personalized discussion with their healthcare provider about all of the factors that may be in play and how tonsils fit in as one overall factor of that child’s health.”

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Tonsillectomies Help Only Temporarily

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esearchers from Helsinki, Finland, analyzed data from 2,000 people to find out how sleeping patterns affected their food choices. They discovered individuals that wake up early make healthier food choices throughout the day and are more physically active. “Linking what and when people eat to their biological clock type provides a fresh perspective on why certain people are more likely to make unhealthy food decisions,” explains lead author Mirkka Maukonen, from the National Institute for Health and Welfare, in Helsinki.

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inland, internationally renowned for innovative educational practices, is poised to become the first country to eliminate school subjects. Officials are making changes to be implemented by 2020 that will revolutionize how the school system works by allowing pupils to absorb a body of knowledge about language, economics and communication skills. “We need something to fit for the 21st century,” says Department of Education head Marjo Kyllonen. The system will be introduced for seniors beginning at age 16. They will choose which topic or phenomenon they want to study, bearing in mind their ambitions and capabilities. “Instead of staying passively in their benches listening to the teachers, students will now often work in smaller groups collaborating on projects, rather than just assigned classwork and homework.” Another new model of learning sparked by XQ: The Super School Project (xqsuperschool.org) is underway at New Harmony High School, housed on a floating barge at the mouth of the Mississippi River southeast of New Orleans. They’ve received a $10 million grant to work on environmental issues when it opens in 2018. “High schools today are not preparing students for the demands of today’s world,” says XQ Senior School Strategist Monica Martinez; she notes that about a third of college students must take remedial courses and are not prepared to thrive as employees.

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Gestalt-Based Curricula Emerging

Lasers Stamp Prices on European Produce

ood retailers are aiming to cut plastic and cardboard packaging by ditching stickers on fruits and vegetables, instead using high-tech laser “natural branding” and creating huge savings in materials, energy and CO2 emissions. Pilot projects are underway in Europe with organic avocados, sweet potatoes and coconuts. The technique uses a strong light to remove pigment from the skin of produce. The mark is invisible once the skin is removed and doesn’t affect shelf life or produce quality. The laser technology also creates less than 1 percent of the carbon emissions needed to produce a similar-sized sticker. Source: The Guardian

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ibrarian Shannon Morrison drives the Digibus, a new, 40-foot-long Winnebago computer classroom that hit the road in January bound for Fresno County, California, communities with the goal of bringing free computer literacy and job searching skills to the public. It employs 12 computer tablets with keyboards and staff that include bilingual interpreters. The library bus was scheduled to spend one week at each of two different communities each month.

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Toxic Practices

Monsanto Faces New Scandal he Monsanto agrochemical company,long cited for its ubiquitous toxic Roundup herbicide and pro-genetically modified organism (GMO) science, is reeling from the disclosure of internal communications that indicate it suppressed knowledge of the potential dangers of its herbicide and received insider help from U.S. regulators. Many documents have been made public by attorneys involved in a personal injury case involving cancer, just one of hundreds pending (reference nonprofit U.S. Right to Know at usrtk. org). Attorney Brent Wisner states, “These [documents] show that Monsanto has deliberately been stopping studies that look bad for them, ghostwriting literature and engaging in a whole host of corporate malfeasance. They have been telling everybody that these products are safe because regulators have said they are safe, but it turns out that Monsanto has been in bed with U.S. regulators, while misleading European regulators.” Monsanto is currently seeking to merge with Germany’s Bayer AG, another industry giant, but the deal is subject to government review. It remains to be seen if these revelations will interfere with the process or prompt other actions by such regulating bodies as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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he Canadian Coast Guard is testing milkweed pods as a source of potential environmentally friendly insulation in partnership with Encore3, a manufacturing company in Québec, Canada, in prototype parkas, gloves and mittens. The plant is roughly five times lighter than synthetic insulation and hypoallergenic. The Farm Between, in Cambridge, Vermont, harvests the plants and sends the material to Encore3. Co-owner John Hayden says, “Milkweed is grown as an intercrop between the rows in our apple orchard to increase biodiversity and provide a host plant for monarch caterpillars. Monarch populations are in serious decline, and the two things we can do to help on the land we steward are to not use pesticides and provide milkweed habitat.”

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only be established through a deferred income annuity with no liquidity features. Other important rules you should be aware of include: ■ Eligible accounts include 401(a), 401(k), 403(b), governmental 457(b) or IRA, ■ Income payments must begin no later than the first day of the month following the owner’s attained age 85. ■ The contract must state from inception that it is intended to be a QLAC. ■ Once income starts, the payments must satisfy RMD rules. ■ The contract cannot have any cash surrender value or commutation benefit

Government’s Decision Expands Retirement Flexibility

t’s not often the federal government makes a decision that nearly everyone is happy with, but that’s what happened with a regulation that was finalized by the U.S. Treasury Department. Changes to the regulations under Internal Revenue Code section 401(a)(9) allow individuals the ability to defer the distribution of their qualified assets beyond age 70 ½ through the purchase of a Qualifying Longevity Annuity Contract (QLAC). Generally, the new rules provide an exception to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) by allowing a QLAC to start making payments as late as age 85, meaning people can defer paying taxes on money that they may not need in early retirement. This is big news for those people who have been taking RMDs because they have to, not because they want to.

A QLAC can provide more flexibility for your retirement planning by allowing you to better match your retirement income to your needs, and the ability to control when taxes can be paid on your qualified assets. A QLAC will also ensure that you will not outlive your money, because as an annuity it provides guaranteed income for life. There are some limitations to QLACs that you should know. Most importantly, there is a cap on how much of your qualified money you can put into a QLAC. Contributions are limited to the lesser of $125,000 or 25% of the owner’s qualified account balances, less previous QLAC contributions. The 25% limit applies on a plan by plan basis and to IRAs on an aggregate basis. Also, QLACs can

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A QLAC can be a powerful tool for those who want more control of how and when they start taking money out of their qualified retirement accounts. With people living longer than ever before, the government has taken an important step in allowing people to have more flexibility with regard to their retirement assets. This is an opportunity that should be a serious consideration for many people nearing, or even in, retirement. Contact your tax/legal advisor for implications to your specific situation. This educational third-party article is being provided as a courtesy by Sara K. Hall. For additional information on the information or topic discussed, please contact Sara K. Hall, Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/ SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency, located at 460 Temple Hill Rd., New Windsor. She can be reached at 845563-9308.

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localauthorprofile Life and Death: We Are All That by Ronnie Figueroa

rom birth to death and may-be beyond, we have all been conditioned to believe what we are told. No matter how enlightened one might think or feel they are, we are all still in need of change. Even ancient teachings have said that the mystery is ongoing for all us. The writing in this material gives us a clear path on how to live life to its fullest. It also explains the need for all of us to see the importance of accepting the realities of death in a balanced way. The most important concept is to live a life of spacious awareness. We need continued growth in order to evolve toward enlightenment. If we let ourselves flow in a balanced way with it all, we begin to feel more peace, relaxation and an awareness of the whole. Awareness is the essence of all that is. This inspiring book provides indispensable insights and delves into important concepts to help us in our practice of living a truer sense of connectedness with ourselves and the world. Author Ronnie Figueroa has been in the healing field for over 40 years. In that time he has not only studied aspects of the human mind and spirit, but also through much experience has been able to overcome many physical and environmental obstacles, and has been able to help others also become more aware of their truer selves. Ronnie Figueroa is a Licensed Ronnie Figueroa Mental Health Counselor with an M.A. in Psychology with an emphasis on community and counseling psychology from Marist College. He provides nutritional consultations and also has studied EFT, EMDR, touch therapies, hypnosis and Reiki. The book can be ordered through Balboa Press or Amazon.com. Ronnie Figueroa has an office in Ulster County and also provides counseling by telephone and Skype. To schedule an appointment or for more information, contact 949-2058357 or visit RonHolisticCounselor.com.

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Finding Fulfillment, Creativity and Meaning by Deborah Shouse

ant to age well? The answer isn’t in your 401k. Self-acceptance, a positive attitude, creative expression, purposeful living and spiritual connections all anchor successful and meaningful aging. In fact, these kinds of preparations are just as important as saving money for retirement, according to Ron Pevny, director of the Center for Conscious Eldering, in Durango, Colorado, and author of Conscious Living, Conscious Aging.

Savor Self-Acceptance

While most people believe adulthood is the final stage of life, Dr. Bill Thomas

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is among the creative aging experts that identify another life chapter: elderhood. “Elders possess novel ways of approaching time, money, faith and relationships,” says Thomas, an Ithaca, New York geriatrician and fierce advocate for the value of aging. “The best chapters may be near the end of the book,” Thomas continues. “Once you appreciate yourself and your years, you can relinquish outdated expectations and seek to discover your true self. Then the world can open up to you,” says Thomas. “Living a rewarding life means we are willing to say, ‘These chapters now are the most interesting.’”

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During this time, rather than feeling consumed by what we have to do, we can focus on what we want to do.

Fill the Funnel of Friends

For older people, relationships offer foundational connections; but as we age, friends may drift away, relocate or die. “Successful aging requires refilling our funnel of friends,” says Thomas, who considers socially engaged elders with friends wealthier than a socially isolated millionaire. “Notice opportunities for interacting and connecting,” advises Shae Hadden, co-founder of The Eldering

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Aging with Passion and Purpose

Institute in Vancouver, Canada. Talk with the checkout person at the grocery store or smile at a stranger walking her dog.

Cultivate a Positive Attitude

Our beliefs about aging shape our experiences. A Yale University study found that older individuals with more positive selfperceptions of aging lived 7.5 years longer than those less so inclined. Connecting with positive role models helps us release limiting beliefs and embrace an attitude of gratitude instead. Other life lessons can be gleaned from observing how negativity affects people physically, emotionally, and socially. Holding onto regrets traps us in the past zapping energy and self-worth; it also keeps the best in us from shining out says Pevny. He suggests a simple letting-go ceremony, with friends as witnesses. If possible, hold it in a natural outdoor setting. At one of his conscious aging retreats, Pevny created a fire circle. Mike, 70, had been a dedicated long-distance runner for most of his life. Now plagued with mobility issues, Mike decided to let go of regrets. He brought a pair of running shorts into the circle and talked about what the sport had meant to him—its joys, challenges and camaraderie. Then he tossed the shorts into the fire, telling his friends, “I am letting go so I can find a new purpose and passion.”

Understand Our Life Stories

Creating our own life review helps us acknowledge and understand our most significant experiences and reminds us of all we’re bringing to our elder journey. Pevny offers these approaches: ■ Develop a timeline, dividing life into seven-year sections. For each, write about the strongest memories and most influential people. ■ Consider what matters most, from people and values to challenges and dreams. ■ Write to children and grandchildren, sharing tales of our life’s most significant events and lessons. ■ Record key stories on audio or video.

Explore the Arts

The changes that aging brings can mire elders in depression and isolation. “Older people need to be brave and resilient,” says Susan Perlstein, of Brooklyn, New York, founder emeritus of the National Center for Creative

Aging, in Washington, D.C., and founder of Elders Share the Arts, in New York City. “To age creatively, we need a flow of varied experiences, exploring new activities or reframing longtime interests from a fresh perspective.” Expressive arts can engage people’s minds, bodies and spirits. A George Washington University study shows that people engaged in the arts are happier and healthier. Perlstein understands this firsthand, having begun taking guitar lessons in her 70s. Motivated to play simple songs for her new granddaughter, she subsequently learned to play jazz and blues tunes and joined a band. “I’m doing something I love,” says Perlstein. “I’m meeting diverse people, learning new things and enjoying a rich life.” Musician John Blegen, of Kansas City, Missouri, was 73 when he realized his lifelong secret desire to tap dance. When Blegen met the then 87-year-old Billie Mahoney, Kansas City’s “Queen of Tap,” he blurted out his wish and fear of being “too old.” She just laughed and urged him to sign up for her adult beginner class. He asked for tap shoes for Christmas and happily shuffle-stepped his way through three class sessions. “Tap class inspired me, encouraged me and gave me hope,” he says. “Now I can shim sham and soft shoe. It’s a dream come true.” To unearth the inner artist, ask: ■ Which senses do I most like to engage? ■ Do I enjoy looking at art or listening to music? Do I like sharing feelings and experiences? If so, a thrill may come from writing stories or plays, acting or storytelling. ■ As a child, what did I yearn to do; maybe play the piano, paint or engineer a train set? Now is the time to turn those dreams into reality. ■ How can I reframe my life in a positive way when I can no longer do activities I love? If dancing was my focus before, how do I rechannel that energy and passion? If puttering in the garden is too strenuous, what other outdoor interests can I pursue? The answers can lead to fresh settings, including local community centers and places of worship. Many universities have extension classes for lifelong learners. State arts councils support

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September 2017

programs, and museums and libraries host helpful activities. Shepherd Centers encourage community learning and Road Scholar caters to elders that prefer to travel and study.

Discover a Purpose

Upon retirement some people feel purposeless and lost. They yearn for something that offers up excitement, energy and joy. Hadden invites people to be curious and explore options. “We’re designing our future around who we are and what we care about now,” she says. Try keeping a journal for several weeks. Jot down issues and ideas that intrigue, aggravate and haunt. After several weeks, reflect on the links between concerns that compel and those that irritate. Perhaps we’re intrigued by a certain group of people or a compelling issue. “A concern points to problems and people you want to help,” Hadden observes. This can range from lending a hand to struggling family members, maintaining our own health, volunteering for a literacy project or working to reduce world hunger. “Choose what inspires you to get out of bed each day, eager to move into action.”

Develop Inner Frontiers

People in their elder years may still be measured by midlife standards, which include physical power, productivity and achievement. “They come up short in the eyes of younger people,” dharma

practitioner Kathleen Dowling Singh remarks. “But those standards do not define a human life.” Rather, aging allows us to disengage from the pressures of appearances and accomplishments. As we release judgments and unwanted habits, we can increase our feelings of spirituality and peace. “When doors in the outer world seem to be closing, it’s time to cultivate inner resources that offer us joy and meaning. We have the beautiful privilege of slowing down and hearing what our heart is saying,” says Singh, of Sarasota, Florida. Meditation is one way to deepen spiritually as we age. “Sit in solitude, gather your scattered thoughts and set an intention,” Singh suggests. “A daily practice shows what peace, silence and contentment feel like. As you become more comfortable, add time until you’re sitting for 20 to 40 minutes.”

Acknowledge Our Shelf Life

“We cannot speak about aging and awakening without speaking about death and dying,” Singh believes. “We need to confront our mortality.” Meditating on the coming transition opens us up to the blessings of life. We can ask ourselves deep questions such as, “What am I doing? What do I want? What does this all mean? What is spirit?” Singh believes such searching questions are vital. None of us knows how much Earth time

we have to awaken to a deeper, fuller experience of the sacred.

Help the World In today’s world of chaos and crisis, the wisdom of elders is more important than ever. “Older people need to be engaged, using their insights to help the Earth, community and world,” Pevny says. Creative aging is about improving the future for subsequent generations. In 2008, longtime educator Nora Ellen Richard, 70, of Overland Park, Kansas, wanted to be of greater service. She asked herself, “What if I housed a foreign student?” and found the International Student Homestay Program. She embarked upon an exploration of cultures from around the world without leaving home. Today, Richard has hosted more than a dozen female students and each relationship has expanded and enriched her life. “We talk about politics, food, religion and cultures; we even pray together,” Richard says. She points to memorable moments of bonding and respect, appreciation and celebration, and says, “As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned how vital it is to nurture the world I am in.” Deborah Shouse is a writer, speaker, editor and dementia advocate. Her newest book is Connecting in the Land of Dementia: Creative Activities to Explore Together. Connect at DementiaJourney.org.

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Aging With Power and Grace by Ed D’Urso

y friend Dan calls it the ‘Ten Step Rigor’—the ten steps it takes to walk off the stiffness and pain of getting up and walking after sitting. Many people surrender to the belief that fatigue and stiffness are inevitable characteristics of life after 35. They speak of their bad knees and backs and their different illness as if they are immutable truths. They believe that the vigor and freedom of youth is forever gone. What is gone, however may just be the impunity of youth—the ability to go hard all day and then get up and do it again with little immediate consequence. You just get up and go. Aging is a wonderful by-product of not

dying. It need not define us. We can use this gift of time to refine our health. The Chinese say that we are born with pre-birth qi. It is a gift of energy and resilience passed to us from our parents and the universe that keeps us energized and moving. If you surrender to pain, your energy and freedom will fade and you will ‘get old’. If you want to continue to play, you will honor this change and learn to develop new powers to transcend the limits of pain and unconscious aging. The key to aging gracefully is already within us. Once I start feeling the effects of ‘getting older’, two important events occurred in my life. I came across the article “The Web of Life” where author Andrew Heffernan spoke about the fascia, essentially the second skin of connective tissue that keeps our entire body together. I began exploring the series of basic stretches he shares. They had a magical effect on my body and prepared me for the next event. (See link at thefiremountainschool.com/ programs/resilient-movement.) In June of 2010 I saw a video of Chinese Martial Arts Master Sifu Tian Min Wang moving with power in ways I had never seen a human being move before. To see someone who could move with power, fluidity, flexibility, speed and grace over age 40 was like seeing a dragon come to life. After many years and thousands of hours of training and translating I have come to understand that what we see as aging really is a reflection of fascia health and resilience fitness. Healthy fascia is resilience embodied and its health is our fitness. How we care for our fascia and how we honor aches and pains defines how we age. When we have the courage to extend beyond the limits of age, we refine who we are as we age and don’t simply get old. Sifu Ed D’Urso is the founder of the Fire Mountain School of Resilience Training and Centered Martial Arts, where his goal is to empower people to grow beyond their limits and achieve new levels of health, happiness and success. The Fire Mountain School is located at 53 Hudson Ave. in Nyack. For more information, contact 893-3160 or visit TheFireMountainSchool.com.

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that her circulation was increased and her blood was flowing well. She had more color in her face. She was relaxed, more so than she had probably let herself be before. She could move her neck and shoulders more comfortably and she was more aware of how her body felt. After that, she scheduled at least once a month.

come visitor to many, even for those who stay very active. People are living longer these days and remain active well into their 70s and 80s, and even their 90s. Activity and regular massage can help keep those joints more comfortable and mobile, allowing for better movement, flexibility and balance. As time marches forward, we experience more loss in our lives. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness or sometimes grieving that can be difficult to move through. People living alone, and especially those in nursing homes, tend to have a lack of human touch that is just for comfort. There are plenty of medical exams and various health issues addressed, but for a human connection, for direct, respectful and soothing-to-the-spirit touch, a massage can be what is needed. At 102, my grandmother still receives massages from me, though on a less regular basis. She is now wheelchair-bound, and therefore isn’t as active as she’d been up until the time of her stroke. After 20, or even 10 minutes of light massage to her shoulders, neck, arms and sometimes feet, she still can move better, feel more circulation and relishes the human connection only touch can offer. As a massage therapist and her granddaughter, this is the highest accomplishment I can hope to achieve.

These sensations are a common occurrence for many people who receive massage, but for seniors, the effects often are more profound. First of all, as we age, our joints tend to become less comfortable. Arthritis is an unwel-

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The Value of Massage for Seniors by Bethany Mutone

y grandmother had her first massage when she was 84. My husband and I had just started our massage practice, and in order to show family solidarity, she finally decided to experience a therapeutic massage. She had been hearing about them from us, and was curious about all the fuss. Because of her Depression-era perspective, a massage seemed a very decadent thing to have indeed. By the end of the first session, she was a convert. It wasn’t because I am her granddaughter, thought that may have made her more comfortable. She was surprised that she felt warm all over,

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Moments to Teach and Learn Made Possible by Hospice by Janice Valentino

hen Lois and Michelle spend time together, they often sit at the computer looking out the window onto the lake and mountains. The colors of the water, blue sky, white clouds and green mountains create a scene that could easily be a piece of Lois’s own artwork that hangs on every wall of her home. “When I decided to become a certified Hospice Volunteer last year, never did I expect to enter in to this amazing relationship” declared Michelle Krutchkoff. Hospice patient Lois Lipper was diagnosed with ALS about four years ago. Never did she expect to be restricted in a body that was used to traveling and creating works of art. Fate brought these two ladies with artistic backgrounds together and they both continue to teach and learn from one another. The medium they use is the computer. “We work on her vast library of photos taken from places Lois has traveled to”, explains Michelle. “She picks a photo out she wants to ‘tweak’ and I become an extension of her hands by working the mouse to lighten or darken the photo and

sometimes even move areas within a picture to create a new piece of art. She has become my teacher as I have never done this before and it has opened my eyes to photography and the works of art Lois creates.” Michelle visits with Lois every Friday and Monday for a couple hours each day and helps her with everyday chores such as checking and responding to emails, answering and making phone calls and looking things up she needs to order on Amazon or getting new books for Lois’s kindle. “Lois and I have great discussions and learn much from each other, but as time goes by, the debilitating effects of this disease take a little bit more of a toll on her” admits Michelle. The specialized care that hospice provides for Lois through her entire care team allows her to enjoy her life as she is able to live it today. The relationship between these soul mates will continue, allowing for many more moments of life to be shared. For more information about Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, call 5616111 or visit HospiceOfOrange.com or Facebook.com/Hospiceoforange/.

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natural awakenings

September 2017

mindfulness

Because of its slow, gentle pace, restorative yoga makes it easier to physically execute and hold the postures, which makes it an ideal fit for seniors.

The Benefits of Restorative Yoga by Laura Kallen

t’s probably fair to say that most people in the U.S. are living in a constant state of fight or flight due to our hectic lifestyles. It can be very hard to disconnect and unwind in today’s modern, multitasking, almost always digitally connected environment. We frequently are distracted and rushing and seldom have space and time to unwind enough to reach a state of physical ease and mental balance. And when we are distracted and rushing, there is a layer of anxiety and tension on top of our movements. Things like healthy eating and a restful

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night’s sleep often fall by the wayside in order to get more things done. However, when we don’t get enough rest, we tend to burn out, react emotionally and become even more stressed which can create illness and disease in the body. Restorative yoga helps us to set the stage for peeling away the layers of tension, for releasing emotional stresses and physical misalignments. Restorative yoga is a quieting and nourishing practice that is executed using props to support the body in positions of ease and comfort which can

help to facilitate health and healing. It is a style of yoga that is accessible to all levels and ages. Restorative yoga is considered a conscious rest as opposed to actual sleeping. The practice is more about opening versus stretching and poses can be held for anywhere between two and 20 minutes which allows for the process of softening and being quiet and receptive. Unfortunately the process of relaxation isn’t always peaceful, because when you get still, whatever is upsetting you or has been repressed rises to the surface. This makes relaxation a process with layers to be peeled away slowly. Restorative yoga also can be a doorway to meditation by “setting the stage” for dropping inside a little more. The beauty of it is all we have to do is set it up and breathe, giving ourselves permission to take a moment and just be. It’s a mini reboot to soothe and quiet the mind and realign the body. Because of its slow, gentle pace, restorative yoga makes it easier to physically execute and hold the postures, which makes it an ideal fit for seniors. While it may not feel like much is happening when we practice restorative yoga but through the practice, we

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become better able to handle all of our emotions and can quiet our minds, relieving symptoms of stress. Restorative yoga then becomes a beautiful way to ease depression and lessen anxiety among the many other benefits we enjoy through a consistent and steady practice. Restorative yoga also can help to encourage mindfulness, reducing high blood pressure and improving respiration, flexibility and joint health. Just 20 minutes per day of restorative yoga is incredibly conducive to healing and a great way to meditate and get quiet. Supplementing a daily at-home practice with a longer weekly class can be especially beneficial.

Laura Kallen is the owner of Nyack Yoga, located at 42 Main Street in Nyack, where she works full time as a yoga teacher and health coach. She began teaching in 2004 and has helped numerous students and clients achieve their personal goals of health and wellness. In addition to her 500 hour Yoga Teacher Certification (Laughing Lotus), she is also certified in Aerial Yoga, Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga. Her classes are infused with humor, personal challenge, thoughtfulness and acceptance and guides the student toward a physical and emotional awareness while moving them further into internal alignment. For more information, call 6757135 or visit NyackYoga42Main.com.

Relieving symptoms of chronic stress with restorative yoga also may help to: ■ Lower the heart rate ■ Increase fertility ■ Increase creativity ■ Heal the organs and digestive system ■ Create a deeper sense of stillness which can benefit a meditation practice ■ Strengthen the immune system ■ Restore the natural alignment of the physical body and the breath ■ Reduce anxiety

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September 2017

fitbody

Rodney Yee on Yoga as a Way of Life

Simple Strategies for Staying on Track by Marlaina Donato

enowned yogi and international teacher Rodney Yee, of New York City, has maintained an inspired yoga practice for 37 years while juggling career obligations, fame and family life. While the benefits of yoga are increasingly well known—from stress reduction and pain management to a more limber body and inner peace— Yee is also aware of the challenges to maintaining a consistent practice. Here he shares insights on the pitfalls encountered by both beginning and advanced students.

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Hudson Valley West

“My advice is to first get rid of selfberating behavior, including judgmental inner dialogue. In many aspects of life, we are constantly measuring ourselves against a standard, which is a waste of time and energy,” says Yee. With a professional background in classical dance and gymnastics, Yee decided to give yoga a try at a nearby studio when he craved more physical flexibility. “As many people do, I came to yoga for a reason. I was a dancer with tight joints. After the first class, I couldn’t believe how I felt. It was not at all like an athletic high; I had a sense of well-being and knew what it means to feel peaceful and clear.” For people with jam-packed lives, finding time for exercise can be daunting. Yee suggests a relaxed approach to scheduling yoga into a busy day. “As the rishis [Hindu sages] say, we shouldn’t ‘try’ to meditate, not try to force a natural state. To say, ‘I have to do yoga,’ just puts another thing on our to-do list. Sometimes discipline is needed, but another part of discipline is not about force.” Different approaches to yoga abound, and part of staying motivated

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may include exploration of a variety of traditions as individual needs change due to lifestyle, health, interests or simple curiosity. Yee reminds us to go with the flow and follow how we feel in the moment. “Different schools of yoga exist because each offers something different. There is a form for all of our moods and a practice for how you feel at any given time.” Reflecting on how his own practice has evolved through the years, Yee recollects, “In my 20s and 30s, my yoga practice was arduous, including three to four hours of strong, physical work and a half hour of pranayama [breath work]. Then for 20 years, it involved a lot of teaching. Over the past 17 years, my practice has become more subtle, with a focus on sequencing and meditation; it’s about how to do this all day long in the context of my body and my life; about being both centered and in the world. In some way, we’re always doing yoga, as we already take 20,000 breaths a day. From a philosophical and ethical point of view, yogis have no choice but to practice.” Because many American women have found their way to a yogic path, men often assume it’s primarily a women’s niche. But yoga has been a male practice for nearly 2,500 years in other countries. Yee encourages men to not feel intimidated. “Why not try something that can help you improve your business, family life and even your golf game?” While Yee believes in a no-pressure approach, he also suggests inviting ways to foster consistency. “If you are just beginning, set aside a half-hour before going to bed or get up a half-hour earlier. Also note that pain is less to be avoided than learned from.” Wisdom can come from dedication to a yoga practice. Yee’s philosophy is, “You can blink and half your life is gone. You can’t always be busy, busy, busy; you have to decide how to fill your life. As spiritual teacher Ram Dass counsels, ‘Be here now.’ Train yourself to bring body, mind and heart together and fully drink from that.” Learn more at YeeYoga.com. Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

yogateacherprofiles Tatyana Kochergina

atyana Kochergina has studied all aspects of Hatha yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation, yoga anatomy, doubles yoga, yoga therapy and practice. Since 2010, she has been teaching yoga part-time in studios, nursing homes and offices throughout New York and New Jersey. With her experience as both a corporate employee and yoga instructor, she wholeheartedly understands the importance of teaching wellness at the workplace. Tatyana’s mission is to help people find a balance that will work for them, at any age and any stage in their life, despite any challenges they may face. Her teaching always is guided by love, compassion and the deep insight honed by many years of experience. She currently is teaching classes for adults with disabilities at ARC of Rockland and Jawonio. She teaches adoptive yoga at Freidwald Rehab Center and Sloatsburg Senior Center. She also teaches kids and gentle yoga at her local Sloatsburg Library and kids and teens in Suffern at Rockland Dance and Fitness. Location: Sloatsburg. For more information, contact 363-0010 or balancewithtk@gmail.com or visit BalanceWithTK.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 45.

Jeannie DeMarco

years ago my life changed when I first experienced yoga. I remember the class clearly. I was in Triangle pose and my mind was all over the place. After that first class, I said this is not for me. It is too slow and all this talk about breath? I clearly did not get it. Eventually I did get it and it was transformative. I love B.K.S. Iyengar Hatha yoga with its focus on mind, body and spirit. You stop and listen to your breath and ask yourself how am I breathing? My classes always are focused on the needs of each individual. We start with mind, body and breath which then evolves into yoga movements and concludes with shavasana to complete the relaxation process. I help you create that peaceful mind that is within all of us. I remind my students that yoga reinforces the positiveness in their body and that they are their own best teacher. Location: New Age Center, 1 South Broadway, Nyack. For more information, contact 422-1628 or demarcoj8@hotmail.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 45.

Bridget Rawls Peterson

began my yoga practice while obtaining my B.A. in dance education in North Carolina. I’m a technically trained dancer and the power poses really challenged me in a way my body had never been challenged before. The flow of the Vinyasa practice felt natural to my body. I love the fluidity and creativity within my yoga practice. The connection of mind, body and breath helps to keep me grounded within my busy life. .........As the owner of Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness, I love to inspire my students to see the beauty and joy around them and within them through breath and movement. I am grateful for each body that comes into my space. They add to the beauty and energy of the studio. I love to see people learn new ways to use their body and connect to themselves. When someone ‘finds’ a new pose and experiences the joy of the practice, it feeds my love and gratitude even more. Location: 132 Park Ave., New City. For more information, contact 538-5826 or info@luckyelephantyogaandwellness.com or visit LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com. See ad, page 13.

Rae Broderick

ae Broderick is a Stråla Yoga Guide. She is the owner and founder of Root. Woodstock Yoga + Wellness in Woodstock, the only studio in the Hudson Valley to offer Stråla Yoga classes. Rae’s yoga journey began fifteen years ago with Rodney Yee VHS tapes and a used mat. She has since completed over 500 hours of training with Strala Yoga and has led upwards of one thousand people at Yoga Journal’s Yoga in the Park series in Bryant Park in New York City among various other workshops and classes throughout the United States and Ireland.. Rae’s classes leave you feeling refreshed, calm and energized. Her clear and encouraging guidance makes people feel safe and supported. She always is interested in the people around her and makes everyone feel welcome and at home. She continues her exploration and growth as a yoga guide through daily practice and the nurturing and supportive community she lovingly creates at her studio. Though her teaching style moves away from pose-based yoga, her favorite shape to make is Tree. Creating a strong foundation in body, mind and heart allows her to remain rooted and strong in how she feels yet moveable enough to sway with the breeze of whatever the universe throws her way. This idea exists at the heart of Root. Woodstock and provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to deepen their own roots while exploring and rising toward their dreams. Location: 96 Mill Hill Rd, Woodstock. For more information, contact hello@rootwoodstock.com or visit rootwoodstock.com.

natural awakenings

September 2017

Paula Heitzner

aula Heitzner has been teaching yoga since 1964. She is an experienced registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance and is a senior board member of the Yoga Teachers’ Association. She is a practitioner and instructor of Hatha, Iyengar, Siddha Yoga and Pranayama Breath Work with a lifetime Kripalu certification. She has studied Western mind-body movement therapy, including ideo-kinesis, the Alexander Technique, body polarity, bio-energetics, Feldenkrais and continuum movement explorations. She also has a background in classic and modern dance forms and choreography. Her multi-level classes invite beginning and experienced yogis, dancers and athletes to deepen their sound body and mind experience. She offers a special class for seniors. Her passion for yoga is fueled by the health and wellness benefits enjoyed by those with a sincere yoga practice and by the recognition of the benefits of yoga by the scientific community. Location: New Age Center at 1 South Broadway in Nyack. For more information, contact 3565613 or visit NyackYogaCenter.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 45.

Colby Rolando

Tayné Smith

eaching yoga truly is my heart’s passion and purpose, and my practice – an intimate act of relationship to life and the breath and connection to spirit. I love helping people unlock the magic and mystery of their breath, body and soul, bringing greater presence, depths of love and connection and authentic, inspired action forward in their lives. I was first introduced to yoga through a Bikram class on the Upper East Side in New York City, in which I left feeling profoundly transformed in some beautiful and freeing way.. Being a classically trained dancer of 25 years, this new and exciting way of breathing, being and moving deeply inspired me. This led to my 500-HR training with senior teachers Chrissy Carter and Jodie Rufty of YogaWorks NYC and to my decade of studies with spiritual teacher Derek O’Neill, who has profoundly and positively impacted my life in ways I could not have imagined. My practice and my teaching consist of purposeful, precise, passionate, pranayamic-based fluid action and movement. My intention for students is to find the h(OM)e within where true wisdom, truth and peace reside.

en I was 15 I became very ill and was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. My gastroenterologist suggested I start doing yoga to alleviate some of the symptoms of the disease. I become knowledgeable in yoga, meditation and self-hypnosis and have practiced regularly since then. For about 20 years I was solely self-taught through books and videos. I took my first ‘real’ class at the YMCA and loved having others in the room to soak up the positive energy. I appreciated that energy so much that it inspired me to become a certified yoga teacher. I enjoy life to the fullest and hope to spread that joy of life to my students. I welcome laughter in my classes. I teach a fun style Hatha yoga, holding each pose for a few deep breaths. Focusing on chakra balance and meditation, I incorporate the mind/body balance most people are seeking. I offer many services from individual yoga lifestyle education to ultra-fun stretch and sip parties. My main goal is to help others live their lives the healthiest way possible, allowing them to feel free of stress and worries for even one hour.

Location: 549 Rte. 17, Tuxedo Park. To apply and for all details please contact colby@oceansofcalm.com or 637-5191. See ad, page 31.

Location: 41 Gage St., Kingston. For more information, contact 331-0710 or visit EternalBlissServicesLLC.com.

Laura Kallen

first learned about yoga in college and fell in love with it in a class years later. I love restorative yoga as much as Vinyasa. Aerial yoga is a beautiful complement to a Vinyasa practice as it explores traditional postures in new ways with the help of gravity and the support of the hammock. Plus, it’s so much fun to hang and float in the air. Yoga continues to transform me in ways that I am constantly in awe of, both physically and mentally. It has brought me into a more peaceful relationship with my body and myself and I love it for the constant evolution. It offers guidelines for how to navigate life. I hope my students come away from class feeling present, inspired and lighter, feeling a deeper connection to being in their body. My classes are infused with humor, personal challenge, thoughtfulness and acceptance, guiding my students toward a physical and emotional awareness and internal alignment. Location: Nyack Yoga, 42 Main St., Nyack. For more information, contact info@nyackyoga42main.com or 675-7135 or visit NyackYoga42Main.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 45.

Hudson Valley West

naturalawakeningsro.com

Raji Thron A Lifetime of Yoga

knew from an early age that Yoga would be a practice for my lifetime. From 12 years old in India to now as co-director of Yoga Synthesis, I still practice regularly and love teaching yoga.. For more than 30 years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve practiced in prominent lineages including Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Shivananda, Iyengar, Krishnamacharya, Anusara and Kundalini. Teaching teachers is really gratifying because I help people discover their unique path and expression through yoga. Over the last 19 years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve trained many great yoga teachers in the NY metropolitan area. Although I really enjoy strong practices like Vinyasa and Ashtanga, I also practice and teach alignment-based practice, as well as softer practices including gentle flow, yin and restorative. I believe in the integration of methods and styles which allows an open exploration into the wholeness of yoga, expressed through posture, breath, energy awareness and meditation in motion and stillness. Come visit me in class or at RajiThron.com. Locations: 787 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY and 225 N. Franklin Tpke., Ramsey, NJ. For more information, call 201-818-9642 or visit YogaSynthesis.com. See ad, page 26.

Robin Laufer No matter how, why or where you practice, it is easy to love yoga.

was first drawn to yoga as a physical practice, but noticed that I felt different every time I left a class so I decided to study yoga and go deeper. I love yoga because there are no rules, no boundaries, no age limit. You can individualize your yoga and make it work for you. It is available to everybody and connects us to ourselves and everything else. My students are a constant source of inspiration. I enjoy creating classes that are fun and joyful. I love to observe the transformation that occurs when students learn to relax and be present in their practice. Seeing people come to class stressed and leave with a serene smile on their face makes my heart sing. I am passionate about working with people who want to live and age with vibrancy and joy. I come from a long line of intuitives and comedians which helps me sense what you need and make you smile while doing it. I combine yoga, the chakras, energy medicine and shamanism to create unique classes and powerful workshops. Location: New Age Center, 1 South Broadway, Nyack. For more information, contact 914450-0325. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 45.

Doreen Foxwell

oga has become my life mission for children. Since being introduced to yoga, I started a children's yoga program which became a franchise opportunity 6 years ago. Since then The Children's School of Yoga has had thousands of children participating each week in 4 states. I love yoga because it gives me the ability to relax anywhere with yoga breaths and meditations. I often do yoga breathing in my car stuck in traffic or at my desk in between working on office type activities. I love the Dancer Pose as I was a dancer growing up and it brings me back to my roots. My mission is to introduce yoga to children in a fun, age appropriate way so that they continue yoga as adults. If they take just one yoga pose or breathing technique and use it, we have achieved our mission. To learn more about The Children's School of Yoga, call 782-YOGA (9642) or visit www.thechildrensschoolofyoga.com. See ad, page 40.

Liz Glover Wilson

e are born with the natural ability to be happy living in our truth. But life can cloud our view and inhibit our growth. Yoga, art and nature can help lead us back to a childlike openness and our true selves. I first started my practice with Bikram and found a healing energy by which I am continually inspired. Teaching has deepened my commitment to the art of yoga, as I feel it is so important to make it accessible for all. I often hear people say, "Yoga is not for me, because I am not flexible." I always reply, "perfect!" because the truth is that yoga is a journey that does not require previous experience or athleticism. It only requires coming to the mat with an openness and willingness to find some growth. I want my students to come away from class with a calmer mind, a more steady breath and a sense of growth within themselves. Yoga provides us with a way to step away from distractions and find what we seek. At my studio, my team and I aim to offer something for everyone, including Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, yoga therapy, pre-natal yoga, restorative yoga, Nia Movement, sound healing and kids yoga. Vrksasana ("tree pose") is one of my favorite poses. When I see my students in Vrksasana, I am reminded that we are this beautiful forest of individuals who, like nature, need nourishment, support, breath and love to flourish in our individuality. Location: 2694 Rte. 44/55, Gardiner. For more information, call 419-5219/5249 or visit StoneWaveHudsonValley.com. See ad, page 13.

natural awakenings

September 2017

mindbodyspirit

Yoga Teachers Association of the Hudson Valley

Creating Change Through Yoga

oga Teachers Association (YTA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of Hatha yoga teaching by providing affordable continuing education to yoga teachers and students. We offer monthly three-hour workshops led by nationally recognized and accomplished local instructors. Workshops take place on Saturdays and are $45 for members and $65 for non-members with advance payment, or $55/$75 at the door. Annual membership is $50 for teachers and individual practitioners and $75 for studio owners. Current yoga teacher trainees receive complimentary membership. Members receive $20 off each workshop, inclusion in the YTA directory, a monthly newsletter, and access to our Yoga Teacher Triad program and YTA Yoga Talks series. Upcoming workshops include Traction Action, Transformational Teaching and Dynamic Gentle Yoga. The September 9 tantra yoga workshop featuring Todd Norian and his AshayaÂŽ yoga method will be followed by our season-opening Prana Party and kirtan with Todd. Location: Club Fit, Briarcliff Manor. For more information, contact 914582-7816 or ytapresident@gmail.com or visit ytayoga.com. See Mark Your Calendar listing, page 41.

Hudson Valley West

by Paula Heitzner

all is fast approaching, bringing a final vibrant display of color which will be followed by the diminished color of dormancy. Mother Nature has her patterns. We also have our patterns and habits and this can be a time of resurging energy and resolve as we return to the pursuits of active, productive living that often follow the slower, more relaxed pace of summer. Many people of varied ages, interests and physical abilities have discovered the joys and benefits of a yoga practice and the change it can inspire. Yoga is a comprehensive system, developed 5,000 years ago, to study and understand the connection of body, mind and spirit. Hatha Yoga is the generic label referring to the physical disciplines for the body, but there are different aspects that support stress relief, wellness, vitality, clarity and the healing aspects of the mind. Spiritual growth is an important benefit, not of beliefs that would in any way interfere with formal religious teachings, but of techniques and guidance for enriching our daily lives.

naturalawakeningsro.com

The Yamas (moral rules) and Niyamas (observances) are perfect examples of how our yoga practice can mesh together and support all things spiritual in our lives. Yoga Sutras, particularly the Bhagavad Gita, explain the paradoxes of life over which we all stumble. They explore the nature of obstacles that can lead one to higher awareness and greater fulfillment if we accept the challenges and create the necessary personal courage to stay the course. Part of this amazing heritage is the time-honored, sharing of esoteric information and ideas. The teacher can impart to the student what is necessary to gain awareness for personal experience of this subtle knowledge. Paula Heitzner is the founder of the Nyack Yoga Center, located at the New Age Center at 1 South Broadway in Nyack. Heitzner, Robin Laufer and Jeannie DeMarco all teach classes at the New Age Center that ground, center and align with bringing about the highest good for their students. For more information, contact 356-5613 or visit NyackYogaCenter.com.

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inspiration

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by Glennon Doyle Melton

lenty of people are pretty, but haven’t yet learned how to be beautiful. They have the right look for the times, but they don’t glow. Beautiful women glow. That’s because beautiful is not about how we look on the outside; it is about what we’re made of and being “full of beauty” on the inside. Beautiful people spend time discovering what their idea of beauty is on this Earth. They know themselves well enough to know what they love, and they love themselves enough to fill up with a little of their particular kind of beauty each day. When we are with a beautiful woman, we might not notice her hair, skin, body or clothes, because we’ll be distracted by the way she makes us feel. She is so full of beauty that some of it overflows onto us. We feel warm and safe and curious around her. Her eyes typically twinkle a little and she’ll look at us closely—because a beautiful, wise woman knows that the quickest way to fill up with beauty is to soak in another’s beauty. The most beautiful women take their time with other people; they are filling up. Women concerned with being pretty think about what they look like, but women concerned with being beautiful think about what they are looking at, taking in the loveliness around them. They are absorbing the whole beautiful world and making all that beauty theirs to give to others. Source: Adapted excerpt from Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle Melton (Flatiron Books). She’s the founder and president of the nonprofit Together Rising. Read more at Momastery.com/blog.

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Orange’s newest hot studio & wellness center welcomes you! •Discover the art of yoga and asana instruction •Master essentials of alignment, sequencing, philosophy, pranayama, and meditation •Learn to teach a hot yoga master class •Gain practical skills and in-classroom experience

To apply & for details, contact Colby at colby@oceansofcalm.com or 845-637-5191 Alignment & Hot Yoga l Wellness Services l Life Coaching natural awakenings

September 2017

photos by Stephen Blancett

consciouseating

FABULOUS FAN FARE Healthy Tailgating Foods to Cheer For by Judith Fertig

at, play, party… and repeat. We may call it tailgating, fangating, homegating, a watch party or simply eating with friends before a big game. According to the American Tailgaters Association, in St. Paul, Minnesota, an estimated 50 million Americans tailgate annually. Whether we’re on the road or at home, making the menu healthy is a winning strategy for hosts and guests. Here, two experts divulge their winning ways. Says Debbie Moose, author of Fan Fare: A Playbook of Great Recipes for Tailgating or Watching the Game at Home, Ivy League schools like Princ-

eton and Yale claim credit for pregame picnics that 19th-century sports fans packed into their horse and buggy for local road trips. Moose lives in the tailgate trifecta of the North Carolina triangle, home to Duke, North Carolina and Wake Forest universities. She enjoyed discovering that University of Washington sports fans from the Seattle area like to sail to their chosen picnic spots, while University of Hawaii folks grill fish on hibachis in Honolulu. Moose naturally prefers healthy, Southern-style fare such as deviled eggs and marinated green bean salad, which

can be served hot, cold or at room temperature. “At the game or at home, your guests will be moving around, so go for foods that can be eaten with one hand,” she suggests. She also plans her menu around color, universal appeal and variety because it’s healthier than just serving a mound of barbecued chicken wings and a big bowl of potato chips. She likes recipes that can do double duty; her black bean summer salad with cherry tomatoes and corn can function as a colorful side dish or as a salsa for nonGMO blue corn chips. “Recipes that you can do ahead of time make things easier on game day; just pull them from the fridge and go,” says Moose. Daina Falk, of New York City, grew up around professional athletes because her father, David Falk, is a well-known sports agent. Excitement-generating sports are in her blood and inspired her to write The Hungry Fan’s Game Day Cookbook. She knows that most of the tailgating in her area takes place for football and baseball games and NASCAR races. On HungryFan.com, Falk serves up tips for every fangating/homegating occasion, from the Kentucky Derby to the Super Bowl. “Keep your menu interesting,” says Falk. “I always like to feature a dish for each team. For instance, if you’re hosting an Alabama versus Washington watch party, you could feature an Alabama barbecue dish with white sauce and oysters or other fresh seafood. Both dishes are characteristic of the local foods in the universities’ respective hometowns.” Falk recommends buying more local beer than needed to make sure not to run out. Game day guests

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can get hot and thirsty, indoors or out. Supply lots of filtered water in nonbreakable containers. For easy entertaining, Falk recommends biodegradable dishes and cups. “Whenever there are a lot of people in one room, especially when they’re drinking, a glass will likely be broken,” she says. “Save yourself cleanup and the risk of glass shards by committing to temporary cups and plates that are Earth-friendly and compostable.” Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Chilled Red Bell Pepper Soup Yields: 4 small servings Quadruple this recipe to make soup for a larger gathering. Serve in small sipping cups—cold for games in hot weather or hot for games in cold weather. 1 red bell pepper, stemmed ½ cup low-fat Greek or dairy-free yogurt ¼ yellow onion 2 Tbsp tomato paste 1 small/mini-cucumber ¼ cup rice vinegar 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard 4 large garlic cloves 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil Garnish: Flat leaf (Italian) parsley (minced optional) Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds Blend all main ingredients, except garnish, in a high-speed blender into purée. Serve topped with the parsley and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. Adapted from Daina Falk’s HungryFan.com. Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible.

Natural Awakenings

FOODIE GUIDE

Healthy, Local, Fresh, Seasonal, Gluten-free, Vegetarian, Organic, Raw & Farm-to-Table Food & Drink Options

CAFES

FARMS

CAFÉ MIO 2356 Rt. 44/55, Gardiner 255-4949 MioGardiner.com

ROCKLAND FARM ALLIANCE/ CROPSEY COMMUNITY FARM 220 S. Little Tor Rd, New City 634-3167 RocklandFarm.org

CATERING

LOCAL FOODS

AJ'S CATERING & TAKE OUT 184 Brightwood Ave, Pearl River 735-7200 CateringByAJ.com LA TALAYE Chef Michelle Timothee 304-2998 • LaTalaye.com latalaye@gmail.com

COYOTE KITCHEN LLC Small batch, artisan, handmade jam/ jelly/marmalade 458-1903 • CoyoteKitchenLLC.com FB: Coyote Kitchen LLC

NUTRITION DAVID CONNELL, DC 777 Ulster Ave., Kingston 15 Davis Ave., Poughkeepsie 338-3320 • 485-8582

THE LITTLE BAKE SHOP Desserts/Baked Goods. Gluten-free available 553-3291

FARMERS’ MARKETS NYACK FARMERS’ MARKET Main Street municipal parking lot, Nyack Thursdays, 8am-2pm NyackChamber.org/nyack-farmers-market/

NAOMI MASS, CHHC, FNLP Functional Nutrition 845-623-0047 • Monsey, NY contact@massfunctionalmd.com ROOT AND BRANCH NUTRITION Kim Jordan, MA, NTP 24 Rte. 210, Stony Point 536-0787 • RootAndBranchNutrition.com kim@rootandbranchnutrition.com

To be part of this Foodie Guide call:

845-480-9006

natural awakenings

September 2017

naturalpet

practices by some in the pet food industry puts countless dogs at risk of ingesting excessive fluoride.” Fluoride occurs naturally in rocks, soil and thus some food plants and water supplies. More enters food via use of fluoride-based pesticides and commercial processing facilities. The EWG advises that two-thirds of all Americans, along with pets and farm animals, are exposed to artificially fluoridated tap water.

Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock.com

Fluoride Dangers to Humans

Fluoride Alert Excess in Food and Tap Water Harms Pets by Karen Becker

n 2009, an Environmental Working Group (EWG) study found that bone meal and animal byproducts in eight of 10 major national dog food brands contain fluoride in amounts between 1.6 and 2.5 times higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

... Birth l i u fe anq A Tr anquil Li A Tr

(EPA) recommended maximum dose in drinking water. Some fluoride from tap water used in the manufacturing of pet food contributes to this. Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., lead researcher of the study, remarks, “A failed regulatory system and suspect

While fluoride exposure hasn’t been studied in dogs or cats, according to Dr. Joseph Mercola, ample research points to the dangers of fluoride to human health, including: ■ Arthritis ■ Bone cancer (osteosarcoma) ■ Bone fractures ■ Brain damage and lowered IQ ■ Damaged sperm and increased infertility ■ Deactivation of 62 enzymes ■ Dementia ■ Disrupted immune system ■ Disrupted synthesis of collagen ■ Genetic damage and cell death ■ Hyperactivity and/or lethargy ■ Impaired sleep (inhibits melatonin produced by the pineal gland) ■ Increased lead absorption ■ Increased tumor and cancer rate ■ Inhibited formation of antibodies

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■ Lowered thyroid function ■ Muscle disorders

Fluoride Dangers to Canines Dogs are at substantial long-term risk for exposure to unacceptably high levels of fluoride. They are, for example, at significantly higher probability for bone cancer than humans, with more than 8,000 cases diagnosed each year in the U.S., compared with about 900 human cases. According to the EWG, a dog drinking normal amounts of tap water would be exposed to 0.05 to 0.1 milligram (mg) of fluoride per kilogram (kg) of body weight daily. A 10-pound puppy that daily eats about a cup of dog food would ingest approximately 0.25 mg fluoride per kg body weight a day, based on average fluoride content in the eight contaminated brands it tested. Altogether, the puppy could be exposed to 3.5 times more fluoride than the EPA allows in drinking water. Large breed puppies may be exposed to even more fluoride due to higher water intake. Whatever the size and the appetite of a dog, combined fluoride exposure from food and water can easily become unsafe. Eating the same food every day, they may be constantly consuming more fluoride than is healthy for normal growth, leading to health problems and higher veterinary bills later in life.

meal is free of fluoride and lead. Ethical bone meal producers will test for these contaminants; verify with the source. Fox suggests a good bone meal substitute might be fossilized oyster shell, dolomite or a synthesized or refined calcium supplement like calcium citrate, ascorbate, stearate or gluconate. Or, consider a pure tricalcium and dicalcium phosphate, blended with magnesium. Fox attests that bones from longer-lived food animals such as dairy cows, laying hens and breeding stock likely contain higher levels of fluoride than shorter-lived animals like chickens, calves and lambs. In his article “Fluoride in Pet Food: A Serious Health Risk for Both Dogs and Cats?” he writes: “Fluorides accumulate in farmed animals over time from phosphate fertilizers, phosphate supplements, bone meal and fish meal supplements and pesticide and industrial-pollutioncontaminated pastures and animal feed. The bones, fins, gills and scales

of fish are often high in fluoride.” He recommends raw food diets that avoid ground bone from older animals like beef cattle and adult sheep. Dr. Karen Becker is a proactive and integrative veterinarian in the Chicago area, consults internationally and writes Mercola Healthy Pets (HealthyPets. Mercola.com).

Fluoride-Free Feeding Tips ■ In homemade food preparation, avoid Teflon-coated pans, which may increase the fluoride levels in food. ■ Avoid cooking with fluoridated water, which concentrates fluoride in the food. ■ Avoid toothpaste or oral rinses intended for humans, to brush canine teeth. Dental health products made for pets are fluoride-free.

Prevent High Ingestion of Fluoride

The EWG recommends owners purchase pet foods free of bone meal and other meals made from animal byproducts. It also suggests that government set fluoride limits in pet food that protect both puppies and large breeds most at risk for bone cancer. Dr. Michael W. Fox, an internationally recognized veterinarian and former vice president of the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, recommends providing pets with fluoridefree water; spring water or reverse osmosis filtered water also works well. In preparing homemade food for a pet, make sure any added bone natural awakenings

September 2017

wisewords Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo

JOINING SCIENCE TO SPIRITUALITY by Linda Sechrist

n 2008, the Sebastopol, California, filmmaking team of Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo created Science and Nonduality (SAND), which later became a nonprofit organization aimed at fostering a new relationship with spirituality that is free from religious dogma, based on timeless wisdom traditions, informed by cutting-edge science and grounded in direct experience. The next year, they organized the first SAND conference, exploring nonduality and the nature of consciousness. Since then, the duo has been producing short films that contribute to the expansion of human awareness, and hosting annual conferences in the U.S. and Europe involving leading scientists, academics and other pioneering thinkers. Thousands of participants from around the world interact in forums and

respectful dialogues with luminaries such as Menas Kafatos, Ph.D., a professor of computational physics at Chapman University, in Orange, California; Peter Russell, a theoretical physicist and author of From Science to God: A Physicist’s Journey into the Mystery of Consciousness; Robert Thurman, Ph.D., professor of Tibetan Buddhist studies at Columbia University, in New York City; evolutionary biologist Elisabet Sahtouris, author of EarthDance: Living Systems in Evolution; and Robert Lanza, physician, scientist and co-author of Biocentrism: How Life and Consciousness are the Keys to Understanding the True Nature of the Universe.

Where do revelations about a deeper reality begin? MB: Individual and communal explorations often occur around life’s

big questions, such as what it means to be conscious and to seek meaning and purpose; the possible place of intuition as the edge where knowledge meets the unknown and unknowable; and how crucial individual awakening is to social transformation.

What is meant by nonduality? ZB: Nonduality is the philosophical, spiritual and scientific understanding of fundamental oneness in which there is no separation. Through quantum mechanics, Western science has reached an understanding of what Eastern mystics have long understood. Duality, generally determined in terms of opposites such as self and other, conscious and unconscious, illusion and reality, as well as separation between the observer and the observed, is an illusion. Nonduality is the understanding that our identifying with common dualisms avoids recognition of a deeper reality. Until recently, human sciences have ignored the problem of consciousness by calling it the “hard problem”. This has led to our present fragmented worldview rife with chaos, conflict and crises. It may be time for scientists to accept the discoveries of the mystics and consider consciousness intrinsic to every observed scientific phenomenon. Understanding that consciousness is the key to the universe, reality and ourselves may be the missing link in bridging science and spirituality.

What difference can exploring the nature of consciousness make?

Foster Your Child’s Love of Learning, Community and Nature at Peace Through Play Nursery School - A Pre-School with Consciousness

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Hudson Valley West

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ZB: Understanding the new science that points to consciousness as allpervasive and the fundamental building block of reality—that we are all made of the same essence, like drops in the ocean—can change how we approach and harmonize day-to-day living. We can be far more open, peaceful and accepting of others. Absurd violence, as well as economic, social and political crises, could all be things of the past, based on a new quantum understanding of our interconnectedness and oneness.

How has the nonduality movement evolved? MB: SAND has evolved into something we never imagined when we began discussing the ideas that the true spirit of science and spiritually is best supported by an open mind and a nondogmatic inquiry; while science seeks to understand our external reality and spiritual thinkers seek to understand our inner, personal experience of consciousness, these seemingly different disciplines rarely come together in open dialogue. It became more evident that we weren’t looking for scientific answers or proof of what spiritual wisdom traditions teach, but rather to expand the questions asked of both science and spirituality. Open-ended questions arise such as: What if space and time are just useful maps and quantum mechanics is pointing us to a deeper reality more mysterious than we can ever imagine? What if science and spirituality, while responding to our collective aspiration to grow and progress, would no longer need to carry the burden of having all the answers? What if we considered our search open-ended, rather then having to arrive at a grand theory of life or final state of enlightenment? What if, while we probe deeper into reality and who we are, we realize that knowledge gathered will always be just a stepping-stone? For information about the 2017 conference in San Jose from Oct. 18 to 22, visit ScienceAndNonduality.com. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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natural awakenings

September 2017

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healthykids

The preschool at the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Designcertified Schlitz Audubon Nature Center includes three nature-focused indoor classrooms and three outdoor areas—two with manmade structures like a slide and picnic tables, and one left completely natural. Founding Director Patti Bailie says the children spend most of their day outside and teachers can take them beyond the play areas to explore 185 acres of prairie, forest, wetlands and lakefront beach habitats.

Public School Programs

NATURE’S CLASSROOM Outdoor Learning Engages the Whole Child by Meredith Montgomery

Nature-based schools provide a child-centered, guided discovery approach to early learning that appeals to kids, parents and teachers and offers far-ranging benefits.

or youngsters at Tiny Trees Preschool, in Seattle, nature is their classroom— rain or shine; tuition even includes a rain suit and insulated rubber boots. At Schlitz Audubon Nature Preschool, in Milwaukee, children use downed wood to build forts and fires. Students of Vermont’s Educating Children Outdoors (ECO) program use spray bottles of colored water to spell words in the snow.

Bringing Joy To Learning Elementary, Middle and High School

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Hudson Valley West

Forest Schools

ECO currently collaborates with seven Vermont public schools from preschool to high school, offering year-long programs for students in inquiry-based outdoor learning for up to four hours a week. “We immerse ourselves in nature with a 10-minute hike into the forest,” says program coordinator Melissa Purdy. Students first learn safety protocols and how to set up camp. Introducing skill-appropriate tools, preschoolers whittle sticks, third-graders build teepees and lean-tos, and high school students build bridges across streams.

Building Resiliency

Based on the publicly funded forest kindergarten model used by Scandinavian countries since 1995, Tiny Trees encompasses seven urban park locations throughout the city, ranging from 15 to 160 acres. With no buildings, playgrounds or commercially produced furniture and 30 percent less overhead, “We can make exceptional education affordable,” remarks CEO Andrew Jay. “Most of the day is spent exploring the forest. If children see salmon in the stream, we observe them from a bridge, and then search out the headwaters to see where they’re coming from,” explains Jay.

Sharing space with insects and plants requires special safety protocols and preparation, but the injury rate of outdoor learning is no higher than that of indoor schools. “Children are building risk literacy—they climb trees, but only to safe heights; they step on wet rocks, but learn how to do so without falling,” says Jay. Classrooms without walls work because students have a sense of freedom within reasonable boundaries. “In winter, we dress warmly and do more hiking to generate body heat. We use picnic shelters in heavy rains. Children don’t have anxiety about the future—rain means puddles to splash in and snow means building snowmen,” says Jay.

Nature Preschools

Developing the Whole Child

The launch of Earth Day in 1970 and America’s nature center movement in the 1960s yielded another immersive nature-based model that includes indoor learning.

naturalawakeningsro.com

Outdoor learning naturally creates knowledge of local ecosystems, environmental stewards and a sense of place, but teachers also observe many other developmental benefits.

At the Magnolia Nature School, at Camp McDowell, in Nauvoo, Alabama, Madeleine Pearce’s agile and surefooted preschoolers can hike three miles. Located in a rural county with a 67 percent poverty rate, the school partners with Head Start to secure tuition-free opportunities for families. Pearce attests how exploring the 1,100-acre property fosters language skills. “With less teacher instruction, children have more time to talk freely with each other.” Instead of loudly calling kids in, Purdy uses bird calls or a drum, which fosters a sense of peace and respect. During daily sit time students observe themselves as a part of nature. “As birds sing and wildlife appears, children see the rewards of quiet and stillness, so self-regulation becomes natural,” agrees Bailie. Bailie sees how children in forest kindergartens express better motor skills, physical development and cognitive abilities than those restricted to traditional playgrounds. Natural playscapes change with the season, are sensory-rich and provide extra oxygen to the brain—all factors that correlate to brain development. Such benefits are reported in Brain-Based Learning by Eric Jensen, Brain Rules by John J. Medina and the Early Childhood Education Journal. Outdoor preschools also foster microbial exposure, essential for healthy immune system development. “Without this exposure, children are at increased risk for developing allergies, asthma, irritable bowel disease, obesity and diabetes later in life,” says B. Brett Finlay, Ph.D., author of Let Them Eat Dirt, which cites supporting science. Kindergarten readiness is a goal of all preschools, but Pearce doesn’t believe a traditional academic focus is required. “By putting nature first, children are socially and emotionally ready for kindergarten,” she says. “They know how to conquer challenges and are ready to take on academics.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLiving HealthyPlanet.com).

communityspotlight

Peace Through Play

here could not be a better combination than yoga, love of nature and health education for the optimal growth of children. For 15 years Peace Through Play Nursery School has been teaching children how to connect to all three. It is well known that yoga benefits children in a myriad of ways. It boosts self-esteem, helps with focus and concentration, teaches good health and exercise habits, strengthens muscles, helps coordination and forms mind/body connection. At Peace Through Play we practice yoga every day for 15 minutes before lunch, ending with a one-minute meditation. Weather permitting, we practice outside thereby continuing our connection to nature. Our children love to explore our 2 acres of woods with trails. We go into the woods every morning and afternoon discovering the vast array that nature has to offer (worms are the biggest draw!).

When Richard Louv wrote Last Child in the Woods he articulated what many of us have known for years – children need to be in nature and it helps them learn better. Among other curricula our health education also draws from yogic philosophy: proper exercise, proper relaxation, proper diet….and we like to add play. We like to make green smoothies, vegetable juices and raw ice cream as well, providing the children with fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. If children are our future we have to give them the best of what we know will help them grow into healthy human beings – in mind, body and spirit. Yoga, nature and health are the prerequisites to optimal learning. Location: 8 Amber Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge. For more information, call 356-8746 or visit PeaceThroughPlay.com.

natural awakenings

September 2017

Discover Better Health with Holistic Medicine Dr. John Lichtenstein uses Holistic, Eastern and Western approaches for seniors, adults, adolesence and children.

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Nature Journaling Tips Parent/Child Classes, School Age Classes, Family Yoga, Teen Classes, Adult Classes

www.thechildrensschoolofyoga.com

Concerned about Kindergarten?

by Meredith Montgomery

ature journal content is highly personal, ranging from scientific species accounts to wildlife-inspired stories. With just a notebook, pencil and fully engaged senses, nature enthusiasts of all ages can foster observation skills, creativity and outdoor exploration. ■ Prompt open-ended questions. “Nature journals encourage children to ask questions and search for answers,” says Tiny Trees Preschool CEO Andrew Jay, of Seattle. Ask why flowers are blooming, how slugs suddenly appeared and what type of tree a leaf came from. Build upon findings with drawings and notes. ■ Make a sound map. Project Learning Tree, a nationwide environmental education program funded by the American Forest Association, suggests drawing an “X” in the middle of the page to represent where the child is sitting. Then use pictures, shapes or words to show the relative locations of surrounding sounds.

At Blue Rock, we give children the time and space to explore the world around them in a warm and nurturing environment. The only progressive school in the Lower Hudson Valley,

Kindergarten Information Session and Play Day Saturday, October 21, 10 am to 12pm.

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Hudson Valley West

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■ Consider the macro perspective. Vermont’s Outdoor Education Coordinator Melissa Purdy shows students closeup shots of moss or sticks without revealing what the abstract image is. Students note what they observe and wonder as they try to solve the mystery. Alternatively, challenge children to draw their own macro images by looking at an object with a magnifying glass. ■ Find a sit spot. Give children the time and space to write and draw freely in their journal as they sit quietly in nature. “Return to the same spot regularly and see how things have changed,” advises Patti Bailie, a professor of early childhood education at the University of Maine, in Farmington. If kids are too busy exploring and learning while outside, reflections can be captured once they’re back inside, too.

calendarofevents SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

31st Annual BBQ – Noon-8pm. 31st Annual BBQ Free. Adoption Healing, Inc. 74 Lakewood Drive 2nd house in driveway, Congers. Joe Soll, LCSW, 268-0283 or joesoll@adoptionhealing.com. AdoptionHealing.com/Anniversaryouting.htm.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

The Power of Fossil Fuel Divestment for New York – 6:30pm. A talk by Mark Dunlea, chair of 100% Renewables Now Campaign. The future of humanity may well depend on what we do now to stop burning fossil fuels and slow global warming. Learn what New York can do and how we can build support for this powerful movement locally. Sponsored by 350.org and Sierra Club who have partnered to take local action on climate change. Free and open to the public. Nanuet Public Library, Nanuet. Not sponsored or endorsed by the Nanuet Public Library. info@350nj.org. World.350.org/ newjersey/ or RocklandSierraClub.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Memory Cafe – 1-3pm. Afternoon of art. Memory Café for people with early-stage dementia and their family caregivers. Programs are free, but preregistration required. This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. Stagecoach Inn, 268 Main St, Goshen. Donna Davies, 695-2247 or info@alz.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

markyourcalendar Yoga Teachers Association of the Hudson Valley 2017–2018 WORKSHOPS SEPTEMBER 9: Todd Norian, Tantra Yoga OCTOBER 14: Tzahi Moskovitz,

Traction Action

NOVEMBER 11: Ken Nelson & Lesli Lang,

Transformational Teaching

DECEMBER 9: Rudy Peirce, Dynamic

Gentle Yoga

JANUARY 13: Patty Holmes, Breath, Joy,

and Inspiration

FEBRUARY 10: Deirdre Breen, Ayurveda

and Yoga

MARCH 10: Shari Friedrichsen, Yoga

and the Heart

APRIL 14: Vandita Kate Marchesiello,

Transform, Relax, and Rejuvenate

MAY 12: Priti Robyn Ross, Tour of Yoga

Through the Koshas

JUNE 30: Tao Porchon-Lynch, Celebrating

Life at Nearly 100!

Join Us! 1:30-4:30pm Briarcliff Manor, NY Non-members welcome ytayoga.com

COMING THIS MONTH

Use This Summer to Prepare Your Child for the School Year – Call for time and date. Learn the causes of- and treatments for - many educational & neurological conditions: ADHD, dyslexia, eye tracking, headaches, learning disabilities, processing disorders and more. Learn current neurobiological research and many exciting treatment options. For parents and professionals (CE certificates). 12 N. Airmont Rd, #5, Suffern. To RSVP or for more information, contact 369-3235 or VisionAndLearning@ gmail.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

A Course in Miracles Lecture/Discussion – 1:30pm. With Dr. Jon Mundy, author of Living A Course in Miracles. 2nd Sunday of each month. CRS, 123 4th Ave., NYC. Jon Mundy, 496-9089 or jon@miraclesmagazine.org. Call before coming the first time, 496-9089. Sample copy of Miracles Magazine at MiraclesMagazine.org. Kundalini Yoga: An Introduction to the Chakras with Angela Trovato – 1:30-3:30pm. Chakras are centers of consciousness and focal points of energy that have a direct, immediate, and profound effect on our daily lives. Join Angela Trovato for an afternoon of Kundalini yoga and meditation to balance the chakras and corresponding organs through extended explanation, practice and discussion. Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness 132 Park Ave New City Bridge Peterson 538-5826 or info@luckyelephantyogaandwellness.com. LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters – 5:30-7pm. Early diagnosis gives people with Alzheimer’s disease the opportunity to make key decisions about treatment, care and planning, and the power to make choices about their health aand future. Learn the risk factors, 10 warning signs, diagnostic process and resources to help. This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. Free. Centro de Amigos, 91 Broadway, Haverstraw. RSVP, Theresa Lopez 394-4951 or info@alz.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Breast Cancer Support Group – 2-3:30pm. Peerled support group, meets on the 2nd Wednesday every month. Features speakers and topics. Free. The Living Seed 521 Main St, New Paltz. Hope Nemiroff, 339-4676 or hope@breastcanceroptions.org to register. aculiza@gmail.com. BreastCancerOptions.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

The Value of a Plant-Based Diet – 6-7:30pm. Clinical nutritional counselor, Danielle Debye will speak about how a plant-based diet may help prevent and even reverse some diseases, including cancer. A cooking demo and tasting will be included. Free. Breast Cancer Options 84 Greene St, Hudson. Register with Hope Nemiroff, 339-4673 or hopenemiroff@yahoo.com. aculiza@gmail.com. BreastCancerOptions.org.

Holistic Chamber of Commerce – Rockland Chapter Meeting – 6:30pm. Join us for our monthly meeting. Meet with like-minded people with the same goal. Network and learn. Share information about your own business. Free. Wholeness Center, 7 New Lake Rd, Valley Cottage. Cathy Kennedy, 646-6276641 or NewCity@holisticchamberofcommerce. com. HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/NewCity.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Music In The Field – noon-5pm, Rain or shine. Boogie down with family, friends and neighbors. Live bluegrass music, food available for purchase or bring your own picnic. A family friendly outdoor concert to benefit Mountain Laurel Waldorf School and Hasbrouck Park. $12 each or $25 family ticket. Mountain Laurel Waldorf School, Libertyville Rd (across from Ulster County Fairgrounds) New Paltz. Judith Jaeckel, 255-0033 or mtlaurelwaldorf@aol. com. MountainLaurel.org.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Dementia Conversations – 6:30-7:30pm. Helpful tips to assist families with difficult conversations related to dementia, including going to the doctor, deciding when to stop driving and making legal and financial plans. This program is primarily for those who have a family member or close friend beginning to experience Alzheimer’s or another dementia. offered in English and French/Creole and co-presented by a special guest speaker on topics of interest to Caribbean and Hispanic families. This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. Free. HASCO Community Center, Inc. 24 West St. Spring Valley Alzheimer’s Association 800-272-3900 or info@alz.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Breast Cancer Support Group – 6:30-8pm. Peerled support group, meets on the 3rd Wednesday every month. Features speakers and topics. Free. Wingate at Beacon, 10 Hastings Dr, Beacon. Hope Nemiroff, 339-4673 or hope@breastcanceroptions.org to register. aculiza@gmail.com. BreastCancerOptions. org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Adoption Support Group – 7:00-9:30pm. Adoption Support Group Donation Adoption Healing, Inc. 74 Lakewood Drive - 2nd House in Driveway Congers Joe Soll, LCSW 268-0283 or joesoll@adoptionhealing.com. AdoptionHealing. com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Celebrate the Seasons with a Waldorf Teacher – 3:30-5pm. For families with children ages 3-7. Join us for creative, age-appropriate activities that support seasonal rhythms for your family and help connect your child to the natural world. Activities may include forest walks and cooking with apples in the fall. Free. Green Meadow Waldorf School, 307 Hungry Hollow Rd, Chestnut Ridge. Vicki Larson, 356-2514 x311 or vlarson@gmws.org. GMWS.org.

NOTE: All calendar events must be received by September 5 (for the October issue) and adhere to our guidelines. For guidelines and to submit entries, go to NaturalAwakeningsRO.com/calendar/.

natural awakenings

September 2017

ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by September 5 (for the October issue) and adhere to our guidelines. For guidelines and to submit entries, go to NaturalAwakeningsRO.com/calendar-ongoing/.

sundays Ongoing Zen Meditation – 9-10:45am. For more experienced meditators. Our small and welcoming community meditates together in three 25 minute periods with a silent walking meditation in between and a Zen Teaching at the end. Donations are welcome. Zen Garland, 83 Campbell Ave, Airmont. 547-2004 or office@zengarland.org. Gentle Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. A class specifically designed for those with mobility limitations resulting from any number of physical issues. Chairs are available and the instructors are highly trained in anatomy and modifications to suit most conditions. $15. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 West Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343 or wildsoulyogastudio@gmail.com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com.

Prenatal Yoga with Bridget Rawls Peterson – 10:30-11:30 am. During pregnancy, a woman’s body and mind experience many changes. Maintaining the physical strength and flexibility of the body will help ease tensions and stress in the body and help prepare for childbirth. We will move gently, stretch and help the body maintain the physical stability it needs during the months of pregnancy. Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness, 132 Park Ave, New City. Bridget Peterson, 538-5826 or info@luckyelephantyogaandwellness.com. LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com. Rockland Center for Spiritual Living – 11:30 am. Transforming lives...one thought at a time. Sunday Celebration, followed by Fellowship. Manse Barn, 32 Old Tappan Road, Tappan. RocklandCSL.org.

Aerial Yoga – 1-2:15pm. All levels. An introduction and foundational course for those who are new to aerial yoga. Become familiar with the hammock and learn how to use it to go deeper into poses, cultivate alignment awareness and build strength. Learn how to do a basic inversion and experience the benefits of spinal decompression. Variations given to address different levels of practitioners. $23 drop-in or explore our rates and membership options. Nyack Yoga, 42 Main St, Nyack. Laura Kallen, 646-246-5388 or info@nyackyoga42main. com. NyackYoga42Main.com.

Creating Healthy Relationships in Love and Life Support Group – 7:15pm. Meets twice a month— call for dates. This group can offer support for people who have been in a relationship with someone who is unavailable or incapable of treating you with the love and respect you deserve. The group also offers support for people who have trouble creating healthy relationships and letting go of unhealthy relationships with intimate partners, friends, parents, siblings or work relationships. Join with others struggling with the same issues and feel supported while experiencing fun and educational exercises. Future meeting topics – discovery within, dating, forgiveness, compassion and boundaries. Introductory rate, $10 per session. RCADD, Nanuet Pavilion Building, 25 Smith St, Ste 101, Nanuet. Facilitated by Debbie Connelly, Certified Addiction Recovery Coach (CARC), Certified Recovery Peer Advocate

Hudson Valley West

(CRPA), Life Skills Coach and Independent Health Coach. 536-4879 or meetup.com/Letting-Go-ofUnhealthy-Relationships.

rates and membership options. Nyack Yoga, 42 Main St, Nyack. Laura Kallen, 646-246-5388 or info@ nyackyoga42main.com. NyackYoga42Main.com.

mondays

Centered Martial Arts: Shen Kung Fu, Kids – 4:30pm-5pm. The true power of our family’s Centered Martial arts is the physical and mental resilience they build in you for your life. You will learn to access your Center, harness your Yi and drive your resilience to thrive in life. Honoring and protecting life is self-defense. $20. The Fire Mountain School of Resilience Training and Centered Martial Arts, 53 Hudson Ave, back corner studio, Nyack. Sifu Ed D’Urso, 893-3160 or sifued@theFireMountainSchool.com. TheFireMountainSchool.com.

Kirtan with Krishna Devi – 8:30pm. Preceded at 7:30pm with meditation program and Vedic fire ceremony. Everyone is welcome. Free. Ananda Ashram, 13 Sapphire Rd, Monroe. 782-5575 or domenicbarber@netscape.net. AnandaAshram. org.

Yoga with Paula Heitzner – 9:30-11:30am. Mondays-Thursdays. The classes offered are geared to all levels of ability. Students are exposed to the traditional schools of yoga along with meditation and philosophy. $15 for first class in each week, $10 for 2nd, $5 for 3rd. New Age Center, 1 S Broadway, Nyack. 356-5613. NyackYogaCenter.com. Story Hour with Dentist Sherri Alpert – 11:30am. Stories to help young children learn about going to the dentist. Dental Wellness Center of Suffern. 2 Executive Blvd, Ste 307, Suffern. 918-1801.

Resilient Movement – 11:30am-12:30pm. Much of the pain in your body that appeared after aging, injury, or illness can be relieved by restoring the health of your fascia and the centered structure of your body. Learn to restore your fascia and resilience at will. Gain freedom from pain and revitalize your life. $20. The Fire Mountain School, 53 Hudson Ave, back corner studio, Nyack. Sifu Ed Durso, 893-3160 or SifuEd@theFireMountainSchool.com. TheFireMountainSchool.com. Aerial Yoga: Mellow Flow – 7:30-8:30pm. All levels. A slower moving aerial Vinyasa class that begins with a warm-up and inversion then moves the hammock to a lower height to explore a more restorative approach to aerial yoga with longer holds of poses supported by the hammock, facilitating deep and opening stretches. Leave this class feeling mellowed and blissed. $23 drop-in or explore our rates and membership options. Nyack Yoga, 42 Main St, Nyack. Laura Kallen, 646-246-5388 or info@ nyackyoga42main.com. NyackYoga42Main.com. Yoga with Paula Heitzner – 7:30-9:30pm. Mondays &Thursdays. The classes offered are geared to all levels of ability. Students are exposed to the traditional schools of yoga along with meditation and philosophy. $15 for first class in each week, $10 for 2nd, $5 for 3rd. New Age Center, 1 S Broadway, Nyack. 356-5613. NyackYogaCenter.com.

tuesdays Early Morning Yoga – 6:15-7:15am. All levels. Begin the day with intention and focus. A well rounded practice designed to awaken and stretch the body while focusing the mind. Explore breathing techniques, asana and meditation. Our studio has an atmosphere of inclusion and acceptance, free from judgment, with space and support for every level and type of practitioner. $20 drop-in or explore our

naturalawakeningsro.com

Valley Scrappers Scrapbooking Club – 9am5pm. The Valley Scrappers meet at the Walker Valley School House to scrapbook and make cards. Experienced scrapbookers and beginners welcome. Free. Valley Scrappers, 6 Marl Rd, Walker Valley. Kelli Greer, 744 3055 or kellipalinkas@yahoo.com. Facebook.com/valleyscrappers?fref=ts.

Centered Martial Arts, Shen Kung Fu, Adults – 5-6pm. See Shen Kung Fu, Kids listing for details.

Introduction to Zen Meditation & Beginner’s Class – 6-7:30pm. Are you looking for more balance and calmness in your life? Come and learn how to slow down and meditate. We will teach you posture, breathing and how to focus your mind and offer you a safe, quiet place to come and train. Donations are welcome. Zen Garland, 83 Campbell Ave, Airmont. 547-2004 or office@zengarland.org.

Yoga with Jeannie DeMarco – 6:45-8pm. Relax and let go of your stress in mind body spirit. This is your time, don’t give it away. You deserve it. You will experience restful night sleep after your practice. Enjoy peace of mind and leave with sense of peace within. $15 for first class in each week. New Age Center, 1 S Broadway, Nyack. 422-1628 or demarcoj8@hotmail.com. Intro/Basic Yoga – 7-8pm. A great class for those looking for basic Vinyasa instruction and introductory level explanations and alignment. $15. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 W. Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343 or wildsoulyogastudio@gmail. com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com.

wednesdays The Feldenkrais Method® - Awareness Through Movement Class – 10-11am. Feel and move better with this gentle class where the emphasis is on awareness of yourself while moving, rather than on the movement itself. Ideal for all ages and levels of ability. Improve breathing, posture and flexibility, help reduce chronic pain or discomfort, enhance recovery from injury or surgery. Discover how to move better without strain or effort. $10. Subtle Energies Holistic Health Center, 1136 Kings Highway #4, Chester. Beth Stewart, b.stewart1016@yahoo. com or 427-5457. Senior Yoga – 1pm. With Paula Heitzner. American Legion Hall, 85 South Piermont Ave, Nyack. 356-5613.

Hospice Bereavement Support Group – 1:30-3pm & 5:30-7pm. 2nd & 4th Wednesday. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Karen Liebowitz, ext. 264 at 1pm at Sullivan County Government Center Legislative Hearing Room 2nd Fl, 1 North St, Monticello. Martha Johnston, ext. 201 at 5:30pm. Catskill Regional Medical Center, Adult Day Care, Harris. Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com.

Connections with Deborah Turner Radio Show – 3pm. An internet radio show promoting healthy living and a healthy planet. Each week features guests from our community. Listen at RocklandWorldRadio.com/program/connections. Hospice Bereavement Support Group – 4:306pm. 1 st & 3rd Wednesday. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Karen Liebowitz, ext. 264. 90 Crystal Run Rd, Middletown. Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com.

Hard CORE – 5:45-6:45pm. A yoga class for athletes and those looking to use asana to build strength and toning. Taught by a physical trainer and yogini, a great alternative to your regular workout routine. $15. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 West Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343; or wildsoulyogastudio@gmail.com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com.

Himalayan Singing Bowl Guided Meditation with Irene Fahlander – 6-7pm. Relax, de-stress, clear your mind. Join us for an hour and let the soothing sounds and vibrations of the Singing Bowl refresh your brain and your body. Irene Fahlander, certified sound healer. $20. Visit Workshop tab to register. Wholeness Center; 7 New Lake Rd, Valley Cottage. Enter through the lower level side door. 268-7532 or hello@wholenesscenterny.com. WholenessCenterNY.com. Breast Cancer Support Group – 6-7:30pm, 3rd Wednesday of each month. Breast Cancer Options support group at St Luke’s Cornwall Hospital cafeteria. 3rd Wednesday each month. Topics and speakers. Chair massage provided. St Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, Cornwall. Free. Register at 339-4673 or hope@breastcanceroptions.org. Breast Cancer Options, Hope Nemiroff. BreastcCancerOptions.org.

Yoga with Robin Laufer – 6-7:30pm. Classes integrate yoga and energy awareness practices to help you relieve tension and stress. Improve your strength, flexibility and balance in a joyful, supportive setting. Learn meditation and relaxation techniques to take into your daily life. Classes end with a healing sound bath using a crystal bowl. $15 for first class in each week, $10 for 2nd. New Age Center, 1 S Broadway, Nyack. 914-450-0325 or robin@robinlaufer.com. RobinLaufer.com. Hospice Bereavement Children’s Support Group – 6:30-7:30pm, doors open at 6pm. 1st & 3rd Wednesday. No Group July and August. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Alyssa Sanchez, ext. 226 and Lisa Filocco. 800 Stony Brook Ct. Newburgh Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com.

Orange County A Course in Miracles Study Group – 7pm. 9/6 & 9/20. A Course in Miracles, with Dr. Jon Mundy, author of Living A Course in Miracles. A Course in Miracles is a self-study program of spiritual psychotherapy designed to help us remember God by undoing guilt through forgiveness. It has sold more than 2.3 million copies and is regarded by many as a modern spiritual classic. By donation. Washingtonville. Jon Mundy, Ph.D.,

496-9089 or jon@miraclesmagazine.org. Sample copy of Miracles magazine, MiraclesMagazine.org.

thursdays Early Morning Yoga at Nyack Yoga – 6:157:15am. See Tuesday listing for details.

Nyack Outdoor Farmers Market – 8am-2pm. Items available include fresh farm produce, fish, baked goods, cheese, pasta, free-range eggs and chicken, pork and grass-fed beef, pickles, sauerkraut and olives, honey, syrups and jams, milk, yogurt, herbs, tea and Middle Eastern specialties. Arts and crafts vendors, knife sharpening services and entertainment are also provided. Free parking will be available during market hours in the Artopee Way lot. Municipal Parking Lot, Main St, Nyack. 353-2221. NyackChamber.org. By-Donation Yoga – 8:30am. With Peter Beuf. Accepting donations from $1 to $15. Just put it in the box and meet us on the mat. DM Weil Art Gallery and Event Space, 208 Bruynswick Rd, New Paltz. liz@sunflowerartstudios.community. SunflowerArtStudios.community Himalayan Singing Bowl Guided Meditation with Irene Fahlander – 9:15-10:15am. Guided meditation using Himalayan singing bowls. $20. Wholeness Center; 7 New Lake Rd, Valley Cottage. Irene Fahlander, 268-7532 or hello@wholenesscenterny. com. WholenessCenterNY.com.

Hospice Bereavement Support Group – 1-3pm. 2nd & 4th Thursday. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Ellen Connellis, ext. 314. 90 Crystal Run Rd, Middletown. Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com.

Hospice Bereavement Support Group – 2-3:30pm & 6:30-8pm. 2nd & 4th Thursday. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Kim Warner, ext. 117 at 2pm. Melissa Fuchs, ext. 202 at 6:30pm. 800 Stony Brook Ct. Newburgh. Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com.

Community Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. A free yoga class open to the public and led by caring and experienced instructors. The Community class is taught for all levels and beginners are more than welcome. Pre-registration is suggested. Free. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 West Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343 or elisa@wildsoulyogastudio. com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com.

Exploration Lab – 7-8:15pm. An opportunity for yoga instructors, yogis and curious minds to meet, discuss, share and practice common themes. Each week presents a new topic to explore in a lab style format with special attention differences in approach. $15. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 West Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343 or wildsoulyogastudio@gmail.com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com. CORE Flow with Wendy Cohen – 7:30-8:30pm. Combining yoga and core-focused poses and movements, Wendy will challenge the body and move you toward more strength and stability. Suitable for all levels of practitioners. Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness, 132 Park Ave, New City. Bridget Peterson, 538-5826 or info@luckyelephantyogaandwellness. com. LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com. Resilience Training/Beginner Tai Chi – 8:15 Beginner Tai Chi, 9:15. Resilience is commonly

known as the ability to bounce back when something bad happens. We train this innate quality into a proactive skill for managing our life with power and integrity. Wu Chan Tai Chi harnesses the resilience of your fascia and converts stress into life enhancing power - chi. $20. The Fire Mountain School of Resilience Training and Centered Martial Arts, 53 Hudson Ave, side corner studio, Nyack. Sifu Ed D’Urso, 8933160 or sifued@theFireMountainSchool.com. TheFireMountainSchool.com.

fridays Yoga with Jeannie DeMarco – 9:30-10:45am. See Tuesday listing for details.

Hospice Bereavement Support Group – 1011:30am. 2 nd & 4 th Friday. New members call facilitator prior to attending. Donna Deming, ext. 253. 214 Harriman Dr, Goshen. Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 561-6111. HospiceOfOrange.com. Shen Kung Fu, Kids – 4:30pm-5pm. See Tuesday listing for details. Shen Kung Fu, Adults – 5-6pm. See Tuesday listing for details.

saturdays Yoga with Robin Laufer – 10:30am-noon. See Wednesday listing for details.

Intro/Basic Yoga Class – 11am-noon. A great class for anyone looking to try yoga or to get a refresh of the fundamentals. Taught by an experienced instructor to ensure proper instruction, basic poses and introductory alignment cues. $15. Wild Soul Yoga Studio, 3 West Main St, Middletown. Elisa Piscitelli, 313-5343 or wildsoulyogastudio@gmail. com. WildSoulYogaStudio.com.

Community Flow with Sarah Horn – 11am12:15pm. Pay what you can. This is a donation based Ccassic flow yoga class. Sarah will guide you through a balanced yoga practice, combining a Hatha and Vinyasa practice. The class is suitable for all levels and modifications will be given. By donation. Lucky Elephant Yoga and Wellness, 132 Park Ave, New City. Bridget Peterson, 538-5826 or info@luckyelephantyogaandwellness.com. LuckyElephantYogaAndWellness.com.

Power Yoga – 11:15am-12:30pm. Level 2/3. Dynamic, fast-paced flow designed to energize and awaken the power within. Strengthen your core, improve your balance and hone your concentration, determination and focus as you quiet the mind in this moving meditation. Practice breathing techniques to create internal heat, increase detoxification and melt away stress. Should have some previous yoga experience. $20 drop-in or explore our rates and membership options. Nyack Yoga, 42 Main St, Nyack. Laura Kallen, 646-246-5388 or info@ nyackyoga42main.com. NyackYoga42Main.com. Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group – noon2pm. Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group. Chair massage is available. Free. Christ the King Church 2 Eugene L Brown Dr, New Paltz. Register at 3394673 hope@breastcanceroptions.org. Breast Cancer Options, Hope Nemiroff. BreastCancerOptions.org.

Aerial Yoga – 1-2:15pm. See Sunday listing for details.

natural awakenings

September 2017

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

COACHING

AKASHIC RECORDS KIA ABILAY

BREAK / THROUGH CAREER AND LIFE COACHING

via Hawaii to Uptown Kingston kia@rainbowheart.net RainbowHeart.net Learn how to read the Akashic Records, or become a certified Akashic records practitioner through the Pathway Prayer Process©, a responsible, reliable method for working in this remarkable, infinite, spiritual resource. Kia also is an energy intuitive and wedding officiant.

Coach Pete Heymann 802-0544 breakthroughwithcoachpete@gmail.com BreakthroughWithCoachPete.com

Get out of your own way...and get on with it! Providing guidance to help you seek positive change to live the life you love. FREE first coaching session.

ART THERAPY

DOWSER JEANIE PASQUALE, DOWSER

SAFE HAVEN ARTS

Lorraine Murphy, LCAT, LPC, ATR-BC, ATCS SafeHavenArts.com m.safehavenarts.com (mobile) 458-1090

845-709-5245 Facebook: House Harmony HouseHarmony.org

Do you have unsolved health issues? Selling your home? Is your business not attracting customers? Dowsing can help solve these issues. Call for more information and receive a free energy reading.

Experience expressive artmaking and traditional counseling to address anxiety, depression, communication/ relationship concerns, trauma and other life challenges. All ages can benefit. We all deserve a safe outlet to find peace. *Create *Express *Grow *Heal

EDUCATION FAMILY VISION & LEARNING CENTER

CATERING AJ'S CATERING & TAKE OUT 184 Brightwood Ave, Pearl River 735-7200 CateringByAJ.com

Enjoy meals made from scratch with fresh, local ingredients by a Culinary Institute of America chef. A new take on take out for lunch and dinner. We cater for all occasions.

CHIROPRACTORS NEWBURGH CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Janette Asaro Peña 3 Pierces Road, Newburgh 561-6800 NewburghChiropractor.com

Michal Luchins, O.D. 12A North Airmont Rd., Suite 5, Suffern 369-3235 • visionandlearning@gmail.com

Specializing in developmental optometry, conditions treated include learning/reading problems, ADHD, headaches, Autism, TBI/concussion andmood disorders. A customized, holistic approach includes blood work and a unique prism evaluation.

ENERGY HEALING LISA LACAVA

Heartfelt Healing 914-527-9273 reikiwithlisa123@gmail.com Facebook.com/reikiwithlisa123

Looking for a safe and natural solution to alleviate back/neck pain or headaches? Ready to improve your health? We help our patients reach their potential, restoring their health naturally. Nutrition classes offered.

Hudson Valley West

naturalawakeningsro.com

Reiki Master/Teacher and Integrated Energy Therapy® practitioner Lisa LaCava provides a unique healing experience utilizing a combination of Reiki, IET, crystals and intuitive healing. Sessions tailored to client’s needs.

FITNESS FITNESS HAUS, ALEX HAUSNER 845-596-8887 alexhausner@thefitnesshaus.net TheFitnessHaus.net

Alex Hausner offers personalized fitness training and nutrition help, guiding your personal transformation and achievement of your fitness goals. Call today for your 3 free personal training sessions.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE/ NUTRITION ALAIN MASS, MD AND NAOMI MASS, CHHC, FNLP 845-623-0047 contact@massfunctionalmd.com Monsey, NY

Treat the root causes of your chronic illness and pain. With Functional Nutrition and an Integrative whole body/whole life approach we can help you with Lyme disease, mold toxicity, hormonal imbalance and brain fog. See ad, page 31.

GREEN BURIAL DYING TO BLOOM

48 Burd St., Ste., 101, Nyack Across from Squash Blossom 535-1567 DyingToBloom.com A natural burial boutique specializing in green burial products chosen for their harmonious, environmental qualities, including hand-crafted biodegradable caskets, urns and artistic memorial products for people and pets.

MASSAGE STILLPOND MASSAGE THERAPY Ron and Bethany Mutone, L.M.T. 677 Rt. 17M, Monroe 783-0343 StillpondMassage.com

Stillpond Massage Therapy is a therapeutic massage practice located in Monroe. Since 1998, entire families have come to Stillpond for relief of muscular pain. See ad, page 16.

NUTRITION DAVID CONNELL, DC

777 Ulster Ave., Kingston 15 Davis Ave., Poughkeepsie 338-3320 • 485-8582 Helping people relieve symptoms of chronic Lyme disease, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome as well as many other chronic illnesses. Dramatically improve your energy levels.

KIM JORDAN, MA, NTP

24 Rte. 210, Stony Point 536-0787 kim@rootandbranchnutrition.com RootAndBranchNutrition.com Nutritional therapy provides an integrative approach to wellness. Through in-depth analysis, imbalances and weaknesses in the body are uncovered and therefore can be strengthened with a personalized nutrition plan.

PAIN-FREE LIVING BALANCE WITH TK

Tatyana Kochergina, CEO & Founder 363-0010 • balancewithtk.com balancewithtk@gmail.com We blend yoga and MELT in order to find a perfect balance of pain free life. We work with adults and kids at any level.

YOGA

classifieds

NEW AGE CENTER

1 South Broadway, Nyack Paula Heitzner, The Nyack Yoga Center: 356-5613 Robin Laufer: 914-450-0325 Jeannie DeMarco: 422-1628

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Three yoga teachers offer their unique passion and experience in mixed level yoga classes that can be meditative, stress relieving, playful and joyful and always individualized to the students.

42 Main St., Nyack 675-7135 info@nyackyoga42main.com NyackYoga42Main.com

We o f f e r classes and workshops of all levels and types of yoga, including aerial yoga, in an atmosphere of inclusion and acceptance, with space and support for every level of practitioner. Free onsite parking and handicap accessibility.

CHANNABEL LATHAM-MORRIS, INDEPENDENT VIRIDIAN ASSOCIATE 914-772-8320 • Viridian.com/energychoices

Attention Homeowners: Save up to 70% on your energy costs with solar. Now is the time to switch before the financial incentives end. Save money and the Earth today.

FREE CANCER SCREENINGS IN ORANGE COUNTY. Contact the Cancer Service Program Orange County, 561-8050, ext. 13 for free breast and cervical screenings for women 40+ and free colorectal screenings for women and men 50+.

VOLUNTEERING

3 W. Main St., Middletown 313-5343 WildSoulYogaStudio.com

Yo g a a n d m e d i t a t i o n f o r everyone! Introductory to advanced. Classes 7 days a week including therapeutic and donation based events. A truly supportive community.

PUBLISHING INTERN – Looking for a college student interested in the publishing field to intern for Natural Awakenings. Must be interested in healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle. Contact Deborah at publisher@ naturalawakeningsro.com. ROCKLAND SIERRA CLUB SEEKING NEW MEMBERS. This group meets once a month and is active on many local environmental issues including climate change and water issues. For more information, contact Peggy at pkurtz9@gmail.com.

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SOLAR ENERGY

SERVICES

WILD SOUL YOGA STUDIO

ULSTER PILATES

At Ulster Pilates we emphasize correct biomechanics to deeply work the abdominals, diaphragm, pelvic floor and back muscles. Our programs use natural body spinal movements to decompress and strengthen the spine.

VIBRANT SALES PERSON DESIRED Part-Time in Orange, Rockland, Ulster, Sullivan area. Natural Awakenings Hudson Valley West is seeking to find a self-motivated experienced sales person who enjoys a healthy lifestyle. This commission-based position offers flexibility and opportunity to create abundance. The right person will have their own car, computer and phone. Please e-mail publisher@naturalawakeningsro.com if interested.

NYACK YOGA @ 42 MAIN

PILATES Offering the Pilates and Gyrotonic® Methods 32 Broadway, Kingston 527 Route 213, Rosendale 658-2239 • UlsterPilates.com

NOTE: For guidelines, rates and to submit a classified listing, log onto NaturalAwakeningsRO.com. Due date for classifieds is the 12th of the prior month.

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September 2017

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