Natural Awakenings NYC - January 2020

HEALTHY LIVING

HEALTHY PLANET

FREE

Natural Healing for Hands GUT CHECK FEEDING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

ANTI-AGING STRATEGIES

STRESS-FREE WORKOUTS WHY LESS IS SOMETIMES MORE

January 2020 | New York City | NYCNaturalAwakenings.com

Natural Toothpaste Debate?

by Samantha Alexander

Many people are increasingly aware of what we are putting in and on our bodies. The worldwide market for natural and organic personal care products, including oral care, is projected to reach $22.3 billion in 2024, from $15.5 billion in 2019, but the expanding has led to misleading claims and labeling. Personal care products are largely unregulated, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require safety testing of ingredients in personal care products and federal law to ensure that personal care products are safe has hardly changed since 1938.

day. Families trust that these products are safe, but unfortunately many ingredients have never been independently evaluated." According to Environmental Working Group President Ken Cook, "Most consumers would be shocked to learn that cosmetics companies can put just about any chemical in cosmetics, no matter how dangerous.”

oil, which has numerous health benefits, such as preventing inflammation to help prevent gum disease. It also helps the zinc in SprinJene bind to the teeth long after use, providing natural antibacterial properties to prevent cavities. Another ingredient is coconut oil. The practice of oil pulling is an ancient and longstanding tradition in oral care. Unlike other brands, even the silica in SprinJene is unique. Its fine, round shape is safer on enamel than the more common coarse silica in most toothpastes. SprinJene has fluoride and fluoride-free options. All products are made in the United States, and are certified to be Kosher, vegan, Halal, gluten-free and cruelty-free.

Without government oversight, the consumers bear the responsibility of knowing that the personal care products they choose are safe and ensuring that natural labeling accurately reflects the ingrediIn November 2019, legislation was in- ents in those products. troduced for a Natural Cosmetics Act CEO and founder of SprinJene, Dr. Sayed that would define the term “natural” as Ibrahim, himself a chemist, combines it relates to personal care products and science and nature to provide a safer give the FDA authority to enforce the new alternative to other “natural” oral care For more information, call 732-640-1830, requirements.. Senator Dianne Feinstein options. SprinJene does not contain email Inquiries@SprinJene.com or visit explains, "Every American comes into undesirable ingredients. Among some of SprinJene.com. contact with personal care products every its innovative ingredients is black seed

letter from the publishers There’s No Time Like Now JANUARY 2020

DIR ECTORY OF ADVERTISERS Thank you for being part of our community!

Abraham’s Natural Foods 31 Anatta 9 Annie Botticelli Spiritual Coach 20 Ardor 29 Ariel and Shane Kane 38 Awakening Your True Voice - Jean McClelland 9 Aum Shanti Bookshop 34 Barbara Brennan School of Healting 40 Bee and You 25 Celeste DeCamps 29 CopperZap.com 43 Conscious Dying Institute 6 Dr. Biamonte - The Biamonte Center 5 Dr. Howard Robins Ozone Therapy 30 Dr. Michael Mongno 40 Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik - Ayurveda 31 Eastover Estate of Eco-Village 33 Edward J. Degel, DDS 41 Elka Boren - Unity Angel Healing 14 Good Green Cleaners 42 HealthyLine Inside Front Cover HerbaSway 6 Hilda Demirjian Laser & Skin Care Center 41 Jon Mundy - A Course in Miracles 38 Lee Schwalb Healing 9 Modern Acupuncture 19 My Nature’s Rite 20 Namaste Bookshop 40 New York - New Jersey Trail Conference 7 Peaceful Ocean View - Spring Yoga Retreat 31 Rev. Jyogan - Traditional Reiki Center 42 Scott Clover Intuitive Energy Healer 41 Skin Spa New York 33 Skinny Pillow 42 SprinJene 19 Stick Stone Bone 19 Tails of a Dog 42 The Healing Center 3 The Real Truth About Heath Back Cover Think AT 29 Tribeca Center for Integrative Holistic Dentists 41 United Palace 40 Whole Foods Market 33 Women’s Empowerment Retreat 31

Cyrece, who usually writes this letter, is taking a break to recover from ankle surgery that we hope will relieve years of chronic pain. She’d been holding out, waiting for the perfect window of time to have the operation, but the reality is there’s never a good time to spend six weeks off your feet. Cyrece finally bit the bullet when the pain became too much—and the impossible suddenly became doable.

Now that she’s on the mend, she’s looking forward to years of painfree living.

Her experience fits with the New Year’s theme of this month’s issue, which is all about taking positive action to add life to your years. While medical solutions are sometimes unavoidable, there are plenty of natural ways to boost immunity and strengthen the mind-body-spirit bond. With that fact in mind, we’ve put together a number of great articles to help you kick-start your 2020. Among my favorites: “Longevity Through Hiking” (page 24), by Roger Dubin, who interviewed local hikers who are in their 80s and still going strong, thanks to their age-defying habit and the peace of mind that nature brings them; and “Living Long and Well” (page 28), by Melinda Hemmelgarn, who suggests that in the modern era, one key to a long, happy life is connecting with what inspires you.

My takeaway from all this is simple. The best time to take care of yourself—to fix that chronic problem, to take that walk in the woods, to follow your dream—is the present moment. No New Year’s resolutions required.

Wishing you health and happiness in 2020.

Cheers!

Cyrece & Michael

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mission

statement

To empower individuals to live a healthier lifestyle on a healthier planet.

To educate communities on the latest in natural health and sustainability.

To connect readers with local wellness resources and events, inspiring them to lead more balanced lives.

DEPARTMENTS 12 news briefs 16 oral health brief 17 health briefs 22 global briefs 23 eco tip 24 local insight 26 feature 32 conscious eating 34 healing ways 36 fit body 38 calendars 39 classifieds 40 resource guide

Natural Awakenings | New York City January 2020 Issue

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12

28

LONGEVITY THROUGH HIKING

26

LIVING LONG & WELL Age-Defying Habits and the Fountain of Youth

32

GUT CHECK

Feeding the Immune System

34

NATURAL HEALING FOR HANDS Getting a Grip on Pain

36

WHEN WORKOUTS DON’T WORK

Why Less Is Sometimes More

news briefs

Damiano Sisters to Lead Women’s Empowerment Retreat in Florida Sisters Gayle Damiano, an intuitive empowerment coach, and Christar Damiano, a massage therapist and life coach, are hosting a women’s empowerment retreat February 28 through March 2, at a Mediterranean-style villa with private beach access in Sarasota, Florida.

“This retreat is for women who are ready to give back to themselves, to reawaken their bodies and minds and to explore their potential,” Christar says. “There is only a limited amount of space, as only a handful of women will be able to attend, so time is running out to plan accordingly. By committing to the retreat, each woman who purchases a ticket now will know she has something lined up to treat herself, and will start the new year off with a ton of inspiration.”

The retreat includes four days and three nights in luxurious accommodations that include a heated pool, a hot tub and the services of a private chef, who will prepare health-conscious meals. Activities will include transformative workshops, yoga, sound healing and live music.

Cost: Varies depending upon room selection. Location: Address will be given upon each ticket sale.

For more information, email damianosisters@gmail.com, visit GayleDamiano.com or ChristarsHealingHands.com, or visit A Women’s Empowerment Retreat on Facebook. See ad, page 31.

THE WORLD’S LARGEST LIVE HEALTH CONFERENCE is coming to

Long Island on January 24 to February 2 at the Hilton Hotel, in Melville. For 10 straight days, from 9 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., 32 of the top doctors, authors and scientists will present live on stage the most important information on the most important topics in the fields of health, nutrition, the food system, the medical system, and the environment. Every day, free vegan breakfast, vegan lunch, vegan dinner, and vegan ice cream will be served to all in attendance. There is no time to waste when it comes to getting informed about health. Learn what these experts have learned from their research on what creates health and what creates disease. Hear how diet and lifestyle can give you tremendous protection against the most serious health issues of our times.

We are living in a period very different than that of our grandparents. Obesity rates are close to 40% nationally and diabetes has skyrocketed to around 10%. On top of this, sperm counts are down more than 50% in the last 50 years and autism is now one in 40. This is all happening at the same time that we are warming the planet; acidifying the oceans; and destroying the forests, coral reefs, and soil. We are also destroying the world’s biodiversity and causing the extinction rates of all living things to their highest levels ever. It is clearly time to take a step back and understand how our food and lifestyle choices are hurting us, the planet and the future. A lot of the information you should be hearing on these topics is not reaching you because the news media is very biased toward the industries that fund them. In other words, the media doesn’t want to do deep investigations against their own advertisers. The same goes for politicians, government agencies, scientific studies, universities, and anyone else that is getting money from the big industries.

In other words, the information that you are getting from socalled trusted sources has been hijacked. So-called reputable sources continue to see things through the eyes of their financial sponsors. There is little money promoting sunshine, fresh air, organic healthy foods, exercise, love, emotional therapy, gardening, herbs, and other natural things. The big industries and their supporters are convincing everyone to buy the foods, medicines and chemicals that they are selling. Big industries and the people they give money to are not looking out for your best interest. They are not concerned about how their products affect your health or the planet. They are only looking to sell more products regardless of what the ramifications are to you, the environment, and the future.

Join this conference for 10 days and finally hear accurate, unbiased information from authors that care about you and don’t have anything to sell you. The time has come for you to take control of your life and stop listening to so-called authority figures that are giving you information about health and the environment that benefits the big industries over you.

NYCNaturalAwakenings.com 12 January 2020

For more information or to register to attend for free, call 516921-1417, email Info@RealTruthTalks.com or visit RealTruthTalks. com. See ad, back cover.

New York City edition

Modern Acupuncture Opens in Soho

Transform Your Life and the World in 28 Days

Modern Acupuncture is cultivating a movement to propel acupuncture into the 21st century with two powerful words “Let’s Tingle”.

Their goal is to revolutionize the way people pursue healthcare with a natural and evidence-based solution to the stressors of today’s modern lifestyle. Modern Acupuncture offers affordable memberships encouraging patients to include this ancient, natural, pill-free treatment in their regular health and wellness routine. It also offers facial acupuncture which can be done at the same time as health treatments. Celebrities are raving about the no-tox beauty regimen offering an all-natural glow.

For your first free session, text “Go Soho” to 89000. Walk-in appointments are available, and every treatment is performed by licensed experts in a spa-like facility in a zero-gravity chair.

Every session is just 30 minutes or less and can be easily done during a lunch break as guests are immediately able to return to normal daily activities. Prices start at $79 per session with packages of 10 and 20 sessions available. Guests also have the option of purchasing a monthly plan for just $99, which includes two sessions per month.

Spirit led Annie Botticelli on a path of discovery that not only freed her from the “golden handcuffs” of the corporate world, but also landed her into six-figure success by using her passion daily to help others. 20 years since leaving the mainstream work experience to become a Spirit-preneur, Botticelli now has accumulated in-depth insight to share on how to navigate this road less traveled.

Do you find yourself looking at your life, wondering what your purpose is and how you can get on-track? Do you feel that you belong off the traditional, mainstream path? Do you want to experience a higher quality of life, enjoyment in your work, and freedom to set your own hours and pace? Do you believe that you have important gifts to share with the world, knowing that you can help others through wisdom you have acquired? Are you drawn to be a coach, an astrologer or even both?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, check out Botticelli’s online resources and her Amazon best-selling book Radical Prayer: Transform Your Life and the World in 28 Days. This tool can help align you with the highest, truest expression of yourself.

For more information, visit AnnieBClarity.com and LumeLifeM.com. For more resources visit AnnieHelpsYou. com, CozybySweetStarlight.com and AnnieHelpsYouTV.com (Youtube).

Location: Modern Acupuncture – Soho, 65 West Houston Street.

New York City. For more information, visit https:// www.modernacupuncture.com/new-york/new-york/sohony001. See ad, page 19.

SHOUT OUT Manhattan’s Bee & You Makes FoodTech Shortlist

ten used to support health.

Bee & You, the natural bee product brand based in Lower Manhattan, has been shortlisted for Forward Fooding’s list of the 500 FoodTech Companies. The list with full ranking will be released February 4.

ecosystem. This year’s shortlist represents every sector of the industry, from food and drink to consumer apps. Every company listed has an entrepreneurial success story and a social impact mission.

Bee & You’s FDA-registered products are expanding rapidly both in the United States and globally.

They include food and supplements made with royal jelly, bee pollen, raw honey and propolis, of-

Bee & You’s unique “contract-based beekeeping model” protects bees and beekeepers’ rights and safety. It allows the production agreements signed directly by the beekeepers without middlemen or distributors.

The FoodTech 500 shortlist showcases companies that are building and scaling To learn more, visit Bee-And-You.com. See ad, agrifood-tech businesses, addressing the rapid need for change across the food page 25.

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news briefs

‘Heal the Healers’ Yoga Retreat at Eastover Eastover Estate and Eco-Village, located in the heart of the Berkshire Mountains, will host a Heal the Healers Yoga Retreat March 8 through 13. The retreat will include daily yoga classes, sound healing classes and selfguided meditation and reflection, as well as Reiki healing by appointment with Maggie Law or Teresa Clancy.

“Winter and fall are great seasons to rest and recharge, particularly for people who regularly invest much of themselves in serving others. This is an opportunity for them to reward themselves,” says Eastover co-founder Yingxing Wang. “Eastover is a holistic living and retreat haven where life slows down, tranquility sets in, and personal self-care becomes the focus. Whatever it is that healers need to reflect, restore and heal, this is a package designed to meet their needs and budget.”

Jay Emmanuel, author of The Healing Forces of Harmonic Sounds and Vibrations: Healing Through the Power of the Voice and the Mind, will lead the sound healing classes. Terry Dunn, the Los Angeles-based instructor of Chinese martial, yogic and healing arts, with more than 42 years of training, will lead the yoga classes.

Location: 430 East St., Lenox, MA. For more information, call 866-264-5139, email events@eastover.com, or visit Eastover.com. See ad, page 33.

Anonymous Donor Will Match Trail Conference Gifts in January This year marks the 100th anniversary of the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference, which preserved land and established trails to create natural sanctuaries in and around the city. To celebrate this landmark occasion, an anonymous benefactor has partnered with Natural Awakenings to match all reader donations to the NYNJTC during the month of January.

“In the early 1900s, there were people who understood that there must be an escape from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle,” says Don Weise, director of membership and development for the NYNJTC. “They worked together to secure the land, build the trails, and blaze and map them so that future generations would have a place to go in nature to breathe, explore and thrive. They formed the Trail Conference in 1920, to protect the land we all love.”

With the help of financial donors and some 2,000 volunteers, the NYNTC maintains 2,165 miles of public trails on 700,000 acres of protected parkland—roughly 3.5 times the land area of New York City.

“The generous offer to match all January donations gives Natural Awakenings readers a unique opportunity to support our mission,” Weise says.

To donate, or to learn about volunteering or joining the Trail Conference, visit nynjtc.org. For more information, including how to double your donation, see ad, page 7.

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14 January 2020

New York City edition

Complimentary Heat Therapy Sessions at HealthyLine Spa in Manhattan

Longtime Ayurvedic Physician to Offer Workshops in Midtown

Much of the healing technology behind HealthyLine heat mats is designed to work through regular use, at the deep-tissue level. But just a single spa session in HealthyLine’s Manhattan store— especially when it’s cold and dreary outside—often turns casual shoppers into customers wanting to bring that technology home, says Lindsay Griesbach, the company’s director of brand development and strategic partnerships.

“We make more than 100 models, and when shoppers come into the store, they can see them all,” Griesbach says. “But we encourage people to try the experience firsthand, because there’s really nothing comparable. Our spa features three of our most popular mats, and shoppers can enjoy a complimentary session any time and receive a free gift just for stopping by.”

An FDA-registered company, HealthyLine incorporates five advanced healing technologies in various combinations, she says. They include heated gemstones, which provide the relaxation effects of hot stone therapy; far infrared rays, which penetrate deep into body tissues to ease pain and stiffness; photon light, which works just beneath the skin to help the body detoxify at the cellular level; sought-after pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF), which facilitates well-being and counteracts electromagnetic “smog”; and negative ions (released by the heated gemstones), which act as natural purifiers.

The HealthyLine spa offers three different 20-minute or 40-minute sessions: Pain and Stress Management, Chakra Balancing and Cleansing, and Immersive Full Body Detoxification.

Location: 41 W. 36th St. For more information, call 212300-5092 or visit HealthyLine.com. See ad, page 2.

In February, Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik will host oneand two-day versions of his workshop Ayurveda: A Modern Approach with Ancient Healing Wisdom, at Balance Arts Center, in Midtown Manhattan.

Kaushik has more than 35 years’ experience as an Ayurvedic physician.

He recently founded the Institute for the Advancement of Ayurvedic Sciences, for Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, research and teaching.

Nd, Bams, Mph, Mpa, E-Ryt 500 “Ayurveda, which is rooted in ancient books of wisdom, the Vedas, is commonly referred to as the ‘mother of all sciences,’” Kaushik says. “It is deeply spiritual and epitomizes a true body-mind approach to health and wellness.”

His one-day workshop, to be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on February 8, will cover the origin, philosophy and history of Ayurveda, and how it can integrate with current (including Western) health and medical systems. Participants will learn how their constitution influences their health, how to determine if they are out of balance, and simple ways to achieve balance and harmony through diet, exercise, meditation and lifestyle changes.

The two-day version adds a second session on February 9, also from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Building on the previous day’s lessons, Kaushik will delve more deeply into the doshas that govern the body systems. He will discuss the Ayurvedic approach to specific health conditions, with a focus on proper digestion and assimilation of nutrients, improving the immune system, food combining and dietary tips, and the importance of a seasonal detoxification regimen

Cost: $115/$215.

Location: 151 W. 30th St., 3rd Floor. To register, call 646-670-6725.

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news brief

oral health brief

Kanes to Lead Two Transformation Seminars in Hell’s Kitchen Awardwinning authors and self-help experts Ariel and Shya Kane are coming to the Skyline Hotel, in Hell’s Kitchen, to offer two seminars: Transformation in the New Year, on January 6, and Magical Relationships, on February 10. Both events will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

The Kanes’ seminars, books and podcast have garnered an audience of millions worldwide. At their New Year-themed event, they will share the keys to having upsets, stress and agitation dissolve in an instant.

“This evening will be geared toward people who are interested in experiencing well-being day in and day out—not just when circumstances happen to be easy,” Ariel says.

“Through our approach, it’s simple to step into your brilliance and complete tasks that have remained on your to-do list day after day, rather than having this year be a repeat of years past,” Shya adds.

Happily married for more than 35 years, the Kanes are offering their Magical Relationships seminar just before Valentine’s Day, when individuals and couples are looking to find or strengthen their love relationships. At this event, the Kanes will offer real, practical ways to create harmony and happiness in relationship, whether participants are single or divorced, dating or married.

Dr. Maryel McKinley says, “Years of therapy cannot touch what the Kanes can do in minutes.”

Cost: $20 per event. Location: 725 10th Ave., Penthouse Ballroom, New York, NY. For more information, visit TransformationMadeEasy.com.

Tribeca Dentist Offers Tips for Restoring Tooth Enamel While tooth enamel is one of the strongest substances in the body, it can erode when it’s exposed to too much acidity and harmful bacteria. Since it protects our teeth from cavities and decay, it’s important to remineralize tooth enamel before it’s too late, says Dr. Lewis Gross, owner of Holistic Dentists, in Tribeca.

“Remineralization means replenishing the minerals that make up your tooth enamel,” he says. “Since calcium and phosphate are the main components of tooth enamel, you’ll want to make sure you concentrate on getting those minerals into your body. However, there are other factors that affect your enamel’s ability to remineralize, as well.

These include your dietary and oral hygiene habits.”

Gross suggests these steps for preserving the tooth enamel: Watch what you eat. Limit sugars and starches, and eat foods with calcium and phosphate, like low-sugar dairy products (cheese and lactose-free milk) and leafy greens.

Drink more water. Water washes away food residue and improves oral pH. Chew sugarless gum. Gum sweetened with xylitol helps kill bacteria and reduce periodontal inflammation.

Use an alkaline oral cleanse. Gross recommends AlkaWhite 5-Day Oral Cleanse to keep the mouth’s pH above 7.

For more information, visit Holistic-Dentists.com.

16 January 2020

New York City edition

Ines Behrens-Kunkel/Shutterstock.com

health briefs

Eat Fermented Dairy to Lower Heart Risk Eating and drinking fermented probiotic dairy products such as yogurt, kefir, cheese and sour cream reduces the risk of heart disease for women, report researchers from the Netherlands that analyzed data from nearly 8,000 Australian women over a 15-year period. The effect was particularly strong for those that were obese and had Type 2 diabetes, according to the research. “In the process of dairy fermentation, beneficial compounds are released that have shown promise for improving glycemic control, blood lipids, cholesterol concentrations and blood pressure,” write the study authors.

Deviatov Aleksei/Shutterstock.com

Evgeny Karandaev/Shutterstock.com

onair/Shutterstock.com

Live Near Green Spaces to Stave Off Metabolic Syndrome Middle-aged and older adults that live in greener neighborhoods have a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, reports research from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health in the journal Environmental Pollution. The study followed more than 6,000 British adults in a cohort initially between ages 45 and 69 for 14 years, and correlated health records and interviews with satellite images of greenery. They found that exposure to green spaces seemed to help prevent metabolic syndrome and its individual components such as large waist circumference, high levels of blood fats and hypertension. The results “could be related to better opportunities provided by green spaces to perform physical activity, as well as a decrease in exposure to air pollution,” notes Carmen de Keijzer, first author of the study. Women fared even better than men, perhaps because women may spend more time in green spaces.

Eat Garlic and Onion for Breast Health Women eating more onions and garlic reduced their risk of breast cancer by 59 percent compared to those that ate less of these, according to a study in the journal Nutrition and Cancer.

Researchers from the State University of New York at Buffalo and the University of Puerto Rico surveyed 660 women in Puerto Rico to measure their intake of onions and garlic, as well as sofrito, a local dish also cooked with bell peppers, tomatoes, cilantro and black pepper. Women that ate the onionand garlic-rich sofrito sauce more than once a day slashed their risk of breast cancer by 67 percent compared to those that didn’t eat it. Both garlic and onions contain compounds with anticarcinogenic properties, and earlier studies have found a link between higher onion and garlic intake and fewer cancers of the lung, prostate and stomach.

Puerto Rican women eat more onions and garlic than women in Europe and the U.S., mainly due to the popularity of those two ingredients in sofrito, and also have markedly lower breast cancer rates.

Munch More Nuts to Stave Off Weight Gain Chomping on more nuts daily keeps the pounds at bay, according to research published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Using records from three long-term longitudinal studies spanning 20 years and including nearly 300,000 health professionals, the report from Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that increasing nut intake by a half serving a day—about 12 almonds or seven walnut halves—was linked to lower instances of weight gain and obesity. Swapping out a serving of meats, refined grains or desserts for half a serving of nuts was associated with staving off weight gain of between 0.9 and 1.5 pounds in any four-year period. A consistently higher nut intake of at least half a serving a day was associated with a 23 percent lower risk of putting on 11 or more pounds and becoming obese in the same timeframe.

No such links were found for eating more peanut butter. The researchers suggest the high fiber content of nuts can make a person feel full longer, and that that the fiber also binds well to fats in the gut, affecting a greater discharge of calories.

Drink Pomegranate Juice to Protect Fetal Brain Growth About one in 10 babies in utero struggles with a dangerous condition known as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), in which the flow of oxygen and nutrients through the placenta is restricted, hampering development of the growing fetus. Now, a simple solution—of mom drinking an eight-ounce glass of pomegranate juice a day—offers hope of a way to reduce infant deaths and lower the need for infant surgery. Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, studied 77 mothers with IUGR at St. Louis’ Barnes-Jewish Hospital that received either one cup a day of pomegranate juice or a placebo. Evaluating 55 of the babies’ development with MRIs after birth, researchers found that the babies with pomegranate-drinking moms had evidence of both better brain connectivity and development of white matter—tissue through which messages pass in the central nervous system.

Pomegranate juice is a rich source of polyphenols, a class of foods also found in nuts, berries, vegetables and teas that’s known to cross the blood-brain barrier and have neuroprotective effects.

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Boost Children’s Immunity with Bee Product it strengthens the immune system by increasing the production of antibodies.

However, it can’t be consumed in its raw form. In order to be suitable for human consumption, it should go through an extraction process carried out by experts under appropriate conditions.”

Samanci, who developed a method to produce propolis while retaining its high biological activity, founded Bee & You along with Taylan Samancı, an agricultural engineer and a beekeeping expert, and Dilek Boyacıoğlu, a food science professor. They produce all-natural bee products containing propolis, royal jelly, raw honey, pollen and bee bread, working with 2,000 contracted beekeepers and 300,000 beehives. Their products have won 29 national and international awards for quality and innovation and are sold in 14 countries.

Illnesses spread quickly in the classroom, especially during cold and flu season. One natural product that can defend against pathogenic microbes comes from a surprising source: bee hives.

“Propolis, which bees collect from the stems, buds and leaves of plants to sterilize their hives, possesses high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties,” says Asli Elif Tanugur Samanci, a food engineer and the co-founder of Bee & You, a bee product company based in Lower Manhattan.

Children with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the pathogenic microbes found in crowded places like

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January 2020 | Advertorial

“In addition to the science supporting the use of propolis for immunity, we receive plenty of positive feedback from our customers,” Samanci says. “Children who regularly consume propolis have a significantly lower frequency of illness and recover more quickly when ill.”

schools. Using propolis is a natural and BEE&YOU products are available at effective way to boost their immunity, Amazon, CVS and 3,500 retail outlets in Samanci says. the U.S., including independent health food “Research conducted by Ohio State Uni- stores thorughout NY and NJ. For more versity in 2006 observed the effects of information or to order, call 516-263-3490, propolis for upper respiratory tract infec- visit BeeAndYou.com. For discounts, follow tions. It was found that propolis decreased Instagram @beeandyounatural. the amount of infections, the duration of symptoms and the duration of illness,” she says. “Propolis prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi and viruses. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used as a support treatment for various diseases due to its health-promoting effects, and when it’s consumed regularly,

TEXT GO SOHO TO 89000 FOR YOUR FREE SESSION!* SOHO OPENING IN JANUARY! 65 West Houston Street, New York, NY 10012 | modacu.com/ny001 *New patients only. Must be local resident. Expires by 12/31/2020. The laws relating to the practice of acupuncture vary from state to state. Please visit modacu.com for clinic ownership information, offer details and any state specific disclaimers. Individual results may vary. Not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Franchises Available.

nycnaturalawakenings.com | Advertorial

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Treating the Greatest Generation Older patients need a new, whole-body approach to health care.

By Michael Biamonte and unnecessary medical and surgical procedures. The annual rate of iatrogenic deaths—those caused by medical intervention—was 783,936, surpassing the 2001 annual death rate from heart disease (699,697) and cancer (553,251).

These numbers are even higher today.

The problem of overmedication is exacerbated by the fact that our nutritional requirements change as we get older. Because we stop producing as much stomach acid, we don’t digest our food or absorb vitamins and minerals as well. As a result we develop chronic health conditions for which we are prescribed medications that make the underlying issues worse.

There is a better way to approach wellness as we age—and it doesn’t require stopping treatment with an MD or specialist. With a good nutritional plan and a doctor who looks to the whole person, it’s possible to reverse most chronic conditions and restore a degree of strength, energy and youthfulness.

They have lived through more changes in the world than any other generation in its history. They’ve been the go-getters, the inventors. When problems have arisen, they’ve rolled up their sleeves and fixed them. Yet when it comes to their health, it seems as though they’ve ceded control to follow their medical doctor’s recommendations, instead of researching their options or taking care of themselves, as they always have in every other area.

At the Biamonte Center, we’ve had many elderly patients tell us that they love their doctor—or even that their doctor saved their life. But we’ve seen even more pa-

At the Biamonte Center, we also have BioCybernetics software that was invented for NASA to identify nutritional deficiencies and determine how to prioritize them tients whose care has simply been managed with one prescription drug after the for treatment. other, while their quality of life slowly but Michael Biamonte, CCN, is founder of the surely fades away.

Biamonte Center for Clinical Nutrition, loIn 2003, Gary Null, Ph.D., et al, wrote “Death by Medicine,” citing statistics from government health agencies and peerreviewed medical journals to assert that the American medical system “frequently does more harm than good” and “is the leading cause of death and injury in the United States.” They cited high rates of in-hospital adverse reactions to prescribed medicine, unnecessary prescriptions of antibiotics, unnecessary hospitalizations,

cated at 2185 34th Ave., Suite 14D, Astoria, NY. To schedule an initial consultation, including an individualized nutritional plan, visit Health-Truth. com or NewYorkCityCandidaDoctor.com.

nycnaturalawakenings.com | Advertorial

21

Trays Up

global briefs

Air Meals May Get an Eco-Makeover

Rethinking Rice

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Growing up in Gambia, Nfamara Badjie’s parents taught him it’s much healthier to eat food they grew rather than food bought in a store. Badjie, a wellknown drummer who moved to the U.S. in 2005, bought a plot of marshy land in Ulster Park, New York, two hours north of New York City, and is learning how to adapt the rice-growing practices of his West African ethnic group, the Jola, to East Coast climates.

Agronomists hope the innovative operation, Ever-Growing Family Farm, can provide a blueprint for other area farmers to introduce new crops due to the threat of climate change.

Erika Styger, an agronomist from nearby Cornell University, says, “We can reinvent agriculture even today, and if we have that mindset, there is a lot that can be done. We shouldn’t get stuck in how we have done things, and we need to adapt to climate change.”

According to researchers, each airline passenger produces about three pounds of trash per flight, from disposable headphones and plastic cutlery to food scraps and toilet waste. To increase mindfulness about the trash, British design firm PriestmanGoode has refashioned the economy meal tray, replacing plastic with renewable materials such as coffee grounds, banana leaves and coconut wood. Associate Strategy Director Jo Rowan says, “Onboard waste is a big issue. Knowing that you have 4 billion passengers per year, it all adds up very quickly.” The redesigned items are featured in an exhibit, “Get Onboard: Reduce.Reuse.

Rethink.” at the Design Museum, in London.

The biggest environmental issue with air travel is carbon emissions, which are growing at a faster rate than previously projected. But as air travel becomes increasingly accessible and more people fly, airlines have been making public pledges to curb their environmental footprint, including the plastic forks and leftovers their passengers leave behind.

Beach Junk

Microplastics Found in Brand-New Sand

22 January 2020

Uncowed by a Hurricane mickyso/Shutterstock.com

A Hawaiian beach that was formed by lava from the erupting Kilauea volcano in 2018 is already littered with invisible pieces of tiny plastic.

The black sand beach named Pohoiki, which stretches for 1,000 feet on Hawaii’s Big Island, was created from shards of hot lava coming in contact with seawater, and looks pristine.

Nic Vanderzyl, a University of Hawaii at Hilo student, saw the new beach as an opportunity to study sediment that was perhaps untouched by human influence, and discovered 21 bits of microplastics per 50 grams of sand on average.

The microplastics were smaller than five millimeters and rarely larger than a grain of sand. Most of them, he says, were microfibers, the hair-thin threads shed from common synthetic textiles like polyester and nylon. This invisible plastic has washed ashore on some of the world’s most remote beaches, uninhabited by humans. It’s still unclear how it will affect marine ecosystems, but scientists think it may have dangerous consequences for wildlife and human health.

Cattle Survive Churning Sea

Three cows turned up at Cape Lookout National Seashore on the Outer Banks of North Carolina months after being swept out to sea by Hurricane Dorian. Local resident Paula D. O’Mally wrote on social media, “The cows are wild and have survived for decades without human intervention.

They’re pretty tough that way.” A massive wave swept away nearly all 20 of the cows and 28 wild horses that were on private land on Cedar Island. The cows’ caretaker has identified them, and a group is formulating a plan to get the cattle back home. The rest, and all of the horses, are believed to have perished in the storm.

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Farmers Respond to Climate Change

New York City edition

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eco tip

Cloth Versus Disposable Diapers The Bottom Line on Eco-Friendly Baby Care Taking care of newborn babies in an ecofriendly way can have a significant impact on both our environment and the little ones’ health. Treehugger.com reports that disposable diapers, made from a blend of plastic and wood pulp and often encased in additional plastic, remain for an estimated 200 to 500 years. A baby uses between 5,000 and 8,000 diapers before being potty-trained, generating 18 billion diapers annually in the U.S. alone.

Further, a recent study by the French agency in charge of food, environmental and occupational health and safety says disposable diapers have been linked to allergic skin reactions and difficulties with potty-training because kids can’t detect as easily when they’re wet.

It’s also cheaper to go cloth instead of the disposable route. Consumer Reports estimates parents spend $1,500 to $2,000 for disposable diapers before their child no longer needs them. GreenBabyGuide. com attests that the most affordable cloth option—prefolds plus covers—can cost as little as $243 over 2.5 years, which includes washing and drying expenses.

Tips for washing cloth diapers at AllAboutClothDiapers.com include using

a prerinse/wash that “agitates, spins and drains” (and to do a longer wash cycle if they aren’t getting clean), using the longest available hot wash cycle and an appropriate amount of water for the load size because “too much water, they are just ‘going for a swim’; too little water and they won’t be able to move, and therefore won’t get clean.”

The Beginner’s Guide section of ClothDiaperTales.com provides advice on choosing from different types of new cloth diapers and covers, which are better for overnight use, what to do about leaks and how many diapers new parents might need to get started. It includes a chart comparing the pros and cons, average cost and some of the most popular, current brands, covering pre-fold, fitted cloth, snap-in/all-in-two/ pop-in, pocket and all-in-one cloth diapers.

The nonprofit Real Diapers Association (RealDiapers.org) organizes local advocate and activists for cloth diapers via a membersupported resource center that plans campaigns, trains organizers, distributes educational information and supports local groups. Local Real Diaper Circles involve users with knowledge and tips to make cloth diapering more accessible and acceptable to parents.

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local insight

LONGEVITY THROUGH HIKING

By Roger Dubin

At 83, Bob reports that he feels fantastic. He walks five to ten miles a day. – Bob Ross

I’M A VOLUNTEER TRAIL SUPERVISOR for the New York–New Jer-

sey Trail Conference. Now in its 99th year, the Trail Conference has more than 2,000 volunteers and maintains over 2,150 miles of public trails in the New York–New Jersey metropolitan area.

When I became a supervisor two years ago, one of the first things I noticed was that I was among the youngest people in our meetings. I was 61 at the time.

Another thing I noticed was how quickly I made new friends there. I began hiking with other people more frequently. These new friends and I shared many qualities: a love of nature and the outdoors; the need to give back; and the endurance to go out on a trail maintenance hike carrying, in addition to the usual knapsack and water, tools like saws, pruners, clippers, crowbars and hammers.

As the volunteer engagement manager for the Trail Conference, Kendra Baumer attends multiple meetings per month with numerous trail supervisors, and she can attest to the unique energy of this community.

“I’ve been at several volunteer meetings where I’ve heard it said, ‘Hiking and working on trails must be the elixir of life—just look around the room!’” she told me.

Kendra also reminded me about Robert Ward, who received the Trail Conference’s dedicated service award last spring, at the age of 91. Robert served the Trail Conference since 1950 in a variety of roles, including trail supervisor and Queens Trails Council chair.

He retired in November, after 69 years of service.

SOME MEMBERS OF THE OVER-80 CLUB My first call after deciding to write this article was to Roland Breault, a volunteer from my territory. Roland is 87 and attributes his health and happiness to his time spent hiking and in nature.

“I started hiking in my early 60s, when I retired,” he said. “I currently hike three days a week for about three hours a day and still do some unofficial trail maintenance. The trails and nature are my savior and spirituality. I feel the presence of God when I’m out in the mountains. I don’t take medication, and I know that all the oxygen and movement keeps me young and active. Plus I am sustained by the people I run into on the trails.”

Bob Ross joined the Trail Conference more than 50 years ago,

24 January 2020

New York City edition

when he stumbled across its office on Madison Avenue. Lots of hiking followed.

When his wife, Janet, developed an inoperable brain tumor, Bob became her sole caregiver—a commitment he kept for the next 34 years. He offers three bits of advice for anyone in the trenches like he was: Take care of yourself first, get a dog to break the tension, and maintain a trail. His choice was the Orange Trail, part of the High Mountain system in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, which was only two miles from his home. This way he could get back if Janet needed him.

After Janet died, Bob discovered the joys of fundraising at the Trail Conference and elsewhere, and he expanded his trail maintenance to include the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve. At 83, Bob reports that he feels fantastic—he walks five to ten miles a day, now primarily on New York City streets. After 25 years of annual checkups, his doctor continues to give him a clean bill of health, with less than a 2% risk of death from heart disease over the next five years.

In concluding, I should add that after I put out the request for stories about hiking and longevity, I received replies from a number of people in their early to late 70s offering their stories. “I’m sorry,” I had to tell them, “but I can’t include you in this article. You’re simply too young.”

Happy trails!

Roger Dubin is marketing director for Natural Awakenings. Contact him at MrNaturalNYC@ gmail.com or on Instagram @MrNaturalNYC. To learn more about the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference, visit nynjtc.org. nycnaturalawakenings.com

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feature

Age-Defying Habits and the Fountain of Youth

by Melinda Hemmelgarn Studies in centenarians have suggested that people who live long and in good health have a regular lifestyle. They spend time in community, eat meals and go to bed at regular times, in sync with circadian rhythms. –Eve Van Cauter

26 January 2020

New York City edition

AT AGE 29, BETTY HOLSTON SMITH, OF ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND, WEIGHED MORE THAN 200 POUNDS,

smoked cigarettes and ate processed junk food. Now, almost 79 years young, she is a vegan ultra-marathon runner and an inspiration to anyone wanting to age well.

Smith’s story underscores the findings of researchers that have long pursued the keys to a long and healthy life. Some of these factors—heredity, for instance—are beyond our control. However, the most critical ingredient seems to be our daily habits.

Although we’ve all likely heard or read about someone that lived into their 90s, ate bacon, drank whiskey and smoked a pack a day, these individuals are outliers: In truth, longevity is determined by a combination of genes, environment, lifestyle choices and luck.

For example, some individuals may be born with genes that confer longevity, but be unlucky due to where they live. The National Center for Health Statistics reports that life expectancy varies by zip code. That’s because where we live influences how we live, predicting access to healthful food, clean air and water, safe neighborhoods and stress-relieving green spaces such as parks and gardens. Genes are important, but our social and physical environments play a greater role in predicting our “healthspan” —the essence of a long and healthy life.

According to researchers at the Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health, in New York City, even our first environment—the womb—can spawn diseases later in life if pregnant women are exposed to air pollutants, pesticides and the toxic stress of poverty.

LEARNING FROM THE “BLUE ZONES” In their search for secrets to longevity, investigators often look for lifestyle clues provided by long-lived populations. Those residing in what National Geographic Fellow and bestselling author Dan Buettner calls “Blue Zones”, for example, are more likely to celebrate their 100th birthday and escape chronic maladies such as heart disease and cancer—the two biggest killers in the U.S. Buettner has identified the “Power 9” lifestyle habits commonly practiced by centenarians living in the five designated Blue Zones—Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; and the Seventh Day Adventist community in Loma Linda, California.

Regardless of genetics, the following behaviors can help anyone slow the aging process and improve quality of life: n Eat a plant-based diet. n Stop eating when 80 percent full. n Practice stress reduction techniques. n Find a sense of purpose. n Engage in physical activity throughout the day. n Consume moderate amounts of alcohol with food and friends. n Join a faith community, regardless of denomination. n Belong to a social network that engages in healthy behaviors. n Share love and time with children, parents and partners.

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SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST Tom LaFontaine, Ph.D., a clinical exercise physiologist based in Columbia, Missouri, says, “Mounting evidence shows that engaging in regular aerobic and strength exercise offers robust defenses against life-threatening diseases such as heart disease and several cancers.” One important marker of long-term health, particularly among women, notes LaFontaine, is bone mineral density (BMD). After menopause, BMD decreases in women and can lead to osteopenia—low BMD—and osteoporosis—pathological loss of BMD. “Women with osteoporosis are particularly at risk for fractures, especially of the hip, which can lead to a reduced lifespan.”

LaFontaine recommends weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging and high-intensity weight training to significantly improve BMD; and he’s proven that it works. “In 2012, we started a program called Older Women on Weights (OWOW), in which 40 post-menopausal women with an average age in the low 60s train with heavy weights. Some even participate in weightlifting competitions.” nycnaturalawakenings.com

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“We have observed women in this group move from osteopenia to normal BMD and from osteoporosis to osteopenia based on pre- and post-bone density DXA scans,” he says. What’s more, the women in LaFontaine’s program have formed new friendships, benefitting from a strong network of social support.

FINDING INSPIRATION Smith, the septuagenarian marathoner, was inspired to make a change nearly 50 years ago when her 3-year-old daughter teased, “You can’t catch me!” during an innocent game of tag. She knew she had to make a change.

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She tried diet pills, fad diets and other quick fixes, but realized they were worthless.

However, each evening Smith tuned in to Gabe Mirkin, a physician who hosted a national radio program about health and fitness.

Following his advice, Smith began eating a diet rich in organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, and says today she doesn’t want to put anything in her body that interferes with her lifestyle. She outlines the steps to her transformation in the book, Lifestyle by Nature: One Woman’s Break from the Unhealthy Herd to Roam Forever Healthy in Nature’s Lifestyle Change Herd. The first step—finding internal strength—is the most important, she says. “Most people have something in their lives they can point to for strength.”

In addition to running 60 to 100 miles each week, Smith practices tai chi, meditates and enjoys camaraderie with her running mates. She also has an upbeat attitude, believing in the importance of passion, perseverance and “taking negative experiences and making them positive.” According to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network, this spirit of optimism is protective against heart disease and other causes of death.

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EATING WELL, BUT NOT TOO MUCH Food is a major contributor to both quality of life and life extension. Global and national recommendations to eat more fiber-rich whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, and omega-3 fatty acids, while decreasing added sugars and sodium, all help reduce our risk for life-shortening diseases. The plant-based Mediterranean diet consistently rises to the top for its health-fortifying benefits.

However, in contrast to our Western culture’s practice of eating until belt-busting full, Blue Zone Okinawans practice hara hachi bu—eating until one is no longer hungry, but stopping before feeling full.

“We know caloric restriction extends life,” says Lori Taylor, clinical dietitian and Core Faculty of Integrative and Functional Nutrition at Saybrook University, in Pasadena. “But no one wants to do it, because it’s no fun.” Instead, Taylor recommends intermittent fasting, eating only during a set window of 10 or 12 hours each day to reduce caloric intake.

Similarly, Dorothy Sears, Ph.D., a professor of nutrition at the Arizona State University College of Health Solutions, has researched the impacts of both intermittent fasting and circadian rhythm on how our bodies handle calories.

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She recommends a “prolonged nightly fast” of 12 to 13 hours, as well as reducing caloric intake after 6 to 8 p.m. to help maintain a healthy weight and stave off such diseases as Type 2 diabetes and obesity-related cancers. Most significantly, she found that a 13-hour nightly fast reduced breast cancer recurrence by 36 percent among 2,300 breast cancer survivors in the Women’s Healthy Eating and Living study.

28 January 2020

Both improving diet quality and restricting calories appear to help slow the rate of aging at the genetic level, in part by preserving the length of our telomeres—the structures at the end of chromosomes that protect our DNA. The Mediterranean diet, with its abundance of protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients such as vitamins C and E, polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids, help prevent ageassociated telomere shortening.

New York City edition

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THE SLEEP CONNECTION Michael Grandner, Ph.D., director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, says Americans tend to see sleep as unproductive time, but it’s a “biological requirement for life.”

In fact, it is one of the three pillars of health, along with good nutrition and exercise, says Eve Van Cauter, Ph.D., former director of the Sleep, Metabolism and Health Center at the University of Chicago. “Studies in centenarians have suggested that people who live long and in good health have a regular lifestyle. They spend time in community, eat meals and go to bed at regular times, in sync with circadian rhythms.”

No matter how long we live, we want to make the most of our time on Earth.

Beyond diet and exercise, finding our personal passion, reducing stress and spending time in nature and with those we love can add years to our lives.

Despite our virtual social networks, real human connection is vital for physical and mental health. According to a report in the journal Heart, loneliness is as dangerous as smoking for heart disease and stroke risk.

So volunteer, join a club, sign up for a community garden plot, yoga or dance class, or host regular potlucks or game nights—these just might be among the best prescriptions for staying young.

Melinda Hemmelgarn, the “Food Sleuth,” is an award-winning registered dietitian, writer and nationally syndicated radio show host based in Columbia, MO. Reach her at FoodSleuth@gmail.com. nycnaturalawakenings.com

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Overcoming the Pain of Shingles and Genital & Oral Herpes From the Desk of Dr. Howard Robins at The Healing Center in New York City

However, both types can be found both orally and genitally!

Recurrent outbreaks may occur from time to time, especially in times of stress, using alcohol, or when eating foods high in a protein called L-arginine, found commonly in nuts and chocolate, among other foods.

It Can Be Eliminated!

Treatments with antivirals can reduce outbreaks and may alleviate the severity of symptomatic episodes but will not get rid of the infection. Medical ozone is the only medicine known to destroy and rid the body of this horrible infection.

Please don’t believe the commercials on television saying you can never get rid of it. Though with no promises or guarantees, medical ozone has been used all over the world to treat infections that normally cannot be fixed, i.e., herpes in all its forms.

Medical ozone is a gas that when it enters the body intravenously acts like “glue” to all viruses, bacteria, fungus, yeast and mold. It destroys or inactivates them so the body can remove them completely.

Did You Have Chickenpox or a “Cold Sore”?

Most everyone answers “yes” to this question. If you answered yes, then you have a herpes infection. Both types of viral infections are easily transferred by contact with someone that has a current outbreak. You likely may have both!

Herpes zoster (HZ), commonly known as shingles, is a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters in a limited area on one side of the body, often in a stripe. The initial infection causes the illness chickenpox, which usually occurs in children and young adults. Once the chickenpox is gone, the virus is not eliminated from the body and can go on to cause shingles. HZ is not the same disease as herpes simplex type 1 and 2, despite the similar name, though both HZ and herpes simplex belong to the same viral family.

years after a chickenpox infection, the virus may break out of nerve cells and cause a viral infection of the skin in the area around the nerve. The virus may spread from one nerve to another causing a painful rash.

Although the rash usually heals within two to four weeks, most people experience nerve pain for months or years, a condition called “postherpetic neuralgia.” In the past, outbreaks usually occurred in the elderly, but now it is common for anyone at any age that is under great stress or has a compromised immune system.

Herpes simplex 1 and 2 cause the oral or genital forms of what we commonly simply call “herpes.” It also spreads in a way similar to the HZ virus. Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by both herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2. Oral herpes, the visible symptoms of which are often called cold sores or fever blisters, is an infection of the face or mouth. Oral herpes is the most HZ becomes dormant in some of our nerve common form and genital herpes is the cells without causing any symptoms. Many second most common form of infection.

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January 2020 | Advertorial

Most importantly, medical ozone does it without harmful adverse reactions or side effects so typical with pharmaceuticals.

In more than 50 countries, over 45,000 physicians have been using it worldwide for over 70 years to successfully and safely treat diseases such as herpes.

So, don’t give up hope and don’t wait! It is absolutely possible to eliminate herpes from your body. To learn more about medical ozone therapy, visit OzoneUniversity. com or buy a copy of Ozone Therapy: The Miracle Medicine, available at GaryNull. com, which has testimonials on its benefits and effectiveness.

For more information, call Dr. Howard Robins at 212-581-0101. Robins is considered the foremost clinical expert on the use of medical ozone in North America, with more than 22 years of clinical practice and 185,000 treatments performed. Bring in this article or the ad from page 3 for a $50 discount off your initial consultation.

conscious eating

GUT CHECK Feeding the Immune System

by Julie Peterson The level of germ-fighting activity your immune system is able to maintain after a sugary meal decreases for a number of hours. –Heather Tynan REDUCING STRESS, SLEEPING ENOUGH, EXERCISING and getting sunlight

are all known strategies for improving the body’s ability to protect itself from harm. However, the most important factor in building a rock-star immune system is nutrition. Here is a guide to the care and feeding of the inner fortifications that fight off disease, supporting long-term wellness.

GROUND ZERO: THE GUT About 70 percent of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract—home to a microbiome that contains trillions of bacteria. It works as a complex ecosystem in which the good bacteria prevent the bad bacteria from taking hold and causing illness or disease.

Eating plants promotes the robust growth of that good bacteria. “The GI microbiome evolved closely with our immune systems and under the influence of the plants our ancestors ingested,” says Holly PooleKavana, who practices herbal medicine in Washington, D.C. Yet about 90 percent of Americans don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The consequent weakening of the microbiome is a double-edged sword, because the processed foods Americans commonly consume promote the growth of harmful microbes. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans indicates that added sugars, saturated fats and sodium eaten by most Americans are far above recommended amounts. This tipping of the scales causes weight gain, toxin buildup and immune system dysfunction.

WHAT NOT TO EAT Plants and grains on grocery shelves today are typically processed into bread, cereal, pasta, desserts and snacks, abundant in added sugars, salt, detrimental fats and chemical additives. These altered foods slam the gut’s immune protection and increase the risk of chronic disease.

A Czech Republic study on food additives found that gut microbes that fought inflammation were harmed by additives. According to the research, “Permanent exposure of human gut microbiota to even low levels of additives may modify the composition and function of gut microbiota, and thus influence the host’s immune system.”

And of course, be wary of sugars. Anything that turns into sugar in the system—think carbs like refined bread products and pasta, not just sweets—is an immune-depressing culprit, says Heather Tynan, a naturopathic doctor at Evergreen Naturopathic, in San Diego. “The level of germ-fighting activity your immune system is able to maintain

after a sugary meal decreases for a number of hours.” Saturated fats also alter immune cells, disrupting their functions and triggering inflammation.

Getting away from processed food cravings can be a challenge, because the foods provide a temporary energy boost. Dorothy Calimeris, of Oakland, California, a certified health coach and author of three anti-inflammatory cookbooks, suggests that cravings mean the body needs something, but it may be rest or water. “By focusing on eating higher-quality nutrients, we can limit and eventually eliminate the cravings.”

FIND US AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS

• Chelsea • 3rd/87th • Columbus/97th • Columbus Circle • Union Square • East Houston • Btw 2nd/3rd/57th

EAT THE RAINBOW Fruits and vegetables get their colors from phytochemicals, which provide the human microbiome with antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that keep the gut healthy and help the immune system combat cellular damage.

National guidelines suggest Americans eat 10 servings of plants a day, ideally two each from the green, red, white, purple/blue and orange/ yellow categories. But data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys show that eight out of 10 people in the U.S. don’t get enough of any color category.

“A good strategy is to add one new vegetable a week to your grocery cart,” suggests Canadian nutritionist Lisa Richards, founder of TheCandidaDiet.com. “Blending fruits and vegetables into shakes or smoothies is also an effective way to eat the rainbow for those who are busy.”

Whatever goes into the grocery cart should be certified organic, the only sure way to avoid ubiquitous genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the food chain, which animal studies have linked to immune system damage.

Herbs are also helpful to boost the body’s inherent ability to protect itself. Poole-Kavana points to medicinal herbs like astragalus and reishi mushroom, which support immunity and balance gut bacteria; antimicrobial herbs like garlic, thyme and oregano; and elderberry, an anti-inflammatory fruit that boosts the body’s ability to identify and eliminate viruses and bacteria.

“The single greatest thing anyone can do for their health is to eat whole foods, including organic vegetables, fruits, high-quality proteins, whole grains and healthy fats,” says Calimeris.

Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin and can be reached at JuliePeterson2222@ gmail.com. nycnaturalawakenings.com

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healing ways

Getting a Grip on Pain

by Marlaina Donato We have to go upstream, so to speak, to find triggers including stress, gut health, toxins and infections. –Susan Blum MOST OF US TAKE OUR HANDS for granted until

buttoning a shirt or opening a jar becomes a daunting task. Getting a grip on that pain and loss of function with holistic solutions can be a game-changer. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as repetitive motion syndromes like carpal tunnel, are commonly linked to hand and wrist pain, and effective treatment relies on identifying the underlying cause.

“Systemic inflammation will be an issue in any case, but the root condition needs to be addressed,” says Kiva Rose Hardin, a New Mexico-based herbalist and co-editor of Plant Healer Magazine. Carpal tunnel, for instance, is not always a repetitive injury syndrome; it can sometimes be triggered by endocrine imbalances such as hypothyroidism, she says.

Susan Blum, M.D., author of Healing Arthritis: Your 3-Step Guide to Conquering Arthritis Naturally, agrees on both the role of inflammation and the importance of looking beyond the diagnosis itself. “Inflammation is a process in the body, an end result, and we have to go upstream, so to speak, to find triggers including stress, gut health, toxins and infections.”

By finding the trigger, relief is within reach with non-surgical solutions and natural approaches such as physical therapy, specialized yoga, acupuncture, essential oils and inflammationtaming foods and herbs.

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GUT CHECK

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New York City edition

Factors like leaky gut syndrome, stress and inadequate nutrition can all kick inflammation into overdrive. The right dietary adjustments can go a long way toward putting on the brakes. “Inflammation from compromised gut health can contribute to both rheumatoid and

osteoarthritis,” Blum notes. “Abdominal fat releases inflammatory molecules into the joints, so metabolic syndrome should [also] be looked at as a factor in osteoarthritis.”

The simplest place to begin is to pay attention to food quality, she says. “Choose whole foods high in nutrients and fiber; eliminate all processed food; read labels to spot hidden sugars and food dyes.”

Blum, the founder of the Blum Center for Health, in Rye Brook, New York, initially guides her patients on an elimination diet to find dietary triggers like soy, corn, gluten, dairy, sugar and eggs. She also recommends a diet that is 70 percent plant-based and includes cold-pressed, solvent-free oils such as high-quality olive oil. Blum cautions against nightshade vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, peppers and white potatoes that can trigger osteoarthritis pain.

EXERCISE AND PREVENTION Improper posture can set off a domino effect from neck to fingertips, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome and other troublesome conditions. Prevention can go a long way. “Stretching and strengthening are the best ways to prevent injury or pain,” says physiotherapist Kelly Picciurro, of Spring Forward Physical Therapy, in New York City.

Picciurro emphasizes exercise for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.

“It’s vital that these patients maintain a certain level of mobility, and [physical therapy] can improve that.”

Those with repetitive strain injuries also respond well to gentle yoga postures like tree pose, upward hands and upward fingers.

In general, yoga helps upper body muscles support and align the hands, wrists and elbows.

SNUFFING OUT PAIN Acupuncture, especially with a focus on postural muscles of the neck and back, can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation.

Hot and cold treatments can bring relief for arthritis flare-ups.

Circulation and resulting improved cell nutrition can be achieved by employing heat via showers, baths and heating pads. For acute pain, cold from an ice bag or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel for 20-minute intervals reduces swelling by reducing circulation and dulling pain signals.

STRATEGIES FROM THE EXPERTS Food tips from Susan Blum, M.D. Replace refined sugar with maple sugar, coconut sugar or honey, all of which offer nutrients and minerals. Avoid overly processed agave nectar.

If meats are consumed, choose organic and grass-fed.

Choose whole grains.

Herbal suggestions from Kiva Rose Hardin For topical pain-relieving applications, look for a fat/oil-based preparation with mint or cayenne for faster action.

Powdered herbs in mass-produced capsules can lose medicinal efficacy quickly. Alcohol or glycerine-based tinctures are good choices that can be convenient when traveling.

Ginger is an effective anti-inflammatory that can be added to food.

Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum), sustainably sourced, is especially useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis; the rhizome of this plant seems to work on the synovial fluid of the joints.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidim) is an important part of any autoimmune formula. A decoction or extract is beneficial for arthritis, fibromyalgia and lupus.

Ashwagandha (Withania somniferum) reduces stress and anxiety while moderating inflammation; it is especially effective in the treatment of autoimmune disorders and endocrine disruption.

Hawthorn (Crataegus) reduces systemic inflammation and has a moderating effect on most forms of arthritis and joint pain; it also strengthens the collagen matrix of the body and supports overall joint health.

Computer posture reminders from Kelly Picciurro Elbows should rest at about a 90-degree angle and comfortably at the side. Wrists should lie in a neutral position; not be too extended or flexed.

The keyboard and mouse should be close to the body to avoid excessive reaching of the hands.

Pain-reducing herbs such as cat’s claw, aloe vera, green tea, ginger, borage oil and chili pepper can all help fight systemic inflammation. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is also a heavy hitter. Blum recommends at least 1,000 milligrams daily of curcumin that is formulated with pepper or a phospholipid for optimal absorption. A 2018 study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that the combination of curcumin and black pepper can repress inflammation signals in the intestines.

Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, Roman and German chamomile, lavender and balsam fir are also effective in reducing pain, and have anti-inflammatory properties. A few drops can be added to Epsom salts for a bath or diluted and rubbed onto the area three times daily.

Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com. nycnaturalawakenings.com

35

fit body

Why Less Is Sometimes More

by Marlaina Donato Aggressive workouts definitely perpetuate stress, and aren’t always necessary for weight loss. –Stephanie Mansour

36 January 2020

New York City edition

EXERCISE IS A PROVEN COMPONENT IN LOSING WEIGHT and

preventing cardiovascular disease and diabetes, but not all exercise regimens yield the same results for everyone, especially when daily stress is a factor. While workouts are often intended to reduce the body’s physiological response to mental and emotional stress, exercise itself can serve as a physical stressor that exacerbates the problem. This delicate balance revolves around the stress hormone cortisol.

While cortisol is needed to kickstart metabolism and burn fat, too much of it can increase the body’s fat stores.

Stephanie Mansour, host of Step It Up With Steph, a weekly TV fitness program in Chicago, sees this correlation in her private practice for women. “Aggressive workouts definitely perpetuate stress, and aren’t always necessary for weight loss. If one of my clients is stressed-out, sleepdeprived, overworked and doing intense workouts but not seeing weight-loss results, that’s a signal that cortisol is potentially too high and needs to be addressed.”

Fat-burning, high-intensity interval training (HIIT)—bursts of exercise with minimal periods of rest in between—raises levels of cortisol. These tend to decrease after a workout, but can remain on overdrive if HIIT is not balanced with low-intensity movement. Add jam-packed schedules to the mix, and the side effects of chronically elevated cortisol result not only in longer recovery time, but insomnia, fatigue, low immunity and failure to lose weight, especially around the midsection—a phenomenon that has earned cortisol the nickname “the belly fat hormone”.

Balancing HIIT with yoga, Pilates, elliptical training, swimming or walking can help to reset the nervous system and bring the rest of the body back up to speed.

MIXING IT UP Hopping on a bike, going for a brisk walk or catching the waves on a surfboard can provide a great low-intensity, steady-state (LISS) cardiovascular workout, which aims for a low level of exertion for a long, continuous period. Repetitive motion for 30 to 45 minutes not only helps to balance cortisol levels, but according to a 2014 Australian study published in the Journal of Obesity, it evens out fat distribution in overweight individuals.

LISS also nudges the body to use fat as fuel, rather than taking valuable glycogen from the muscles.

Yoga and Pilates classes, though distinctly different, offer valuable benefits. “If cortisol backlash is an issue, you definitely want to work with someone who knows the anatomy and physiology of breathing,” says Tori Brown, owner of The Pilates Room & Antigravity Studio, in Ithaca, New York. “By learning proper breathing techniques, practitioners are able to downregulate the nervous system into a more parasympathetic state, which leads to better focus, lower heart rate, better digestion, more optimal cortisol levels and improved sleep patterns. All of this leads to more focused workouts that build muscle while creating less stress on the nervous system.”

Mansour suggests simple walking for stress-busting alternative cardio. “Brisk walking three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes is great to help reduce stress.”

Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

CORTISOL-CONSCIOUS WORKOUTS Mansour works with a naturopath that analyzes her clients’ cortisol and other hormone levels. “One of the first things we focus on is helping the body move into the parasympathetic nervous system and out of the fight-or-flight stress response. One way we do this is by shifting into more relaxed workouts—gentle yoga, beginners’ Pilates class, light cardio or light strength training.”

Photo by theformfitness from Pexels

Fitness expert Beth Shaw chose a zealous approach in her own exercise regimen until high cortisol levels unraveled her health.

The founder of YogaFit, a yoga teacher training program headquartered in Toronto, she emphasizes moderation. “The key is to not overtrain and to do just enough to adequately stimulate the system.” She recommends 30-to 45-minute cardio sessions and no longer than 45 minutes for weights. “Endorphin release from these two types of exercises should offset any release in cortisol.”

When we exercise may be as important to achieving weight loss and enhancing overall energy as the type of workout we choose, a factor based on circadian rhythm—the body’s biological clock. There are some schools of thought that cortisol is higher in the morning, and therefore this is the best time to exercise, says Mansour, while others believe we should target the mid-afternoon slump. “I advise my clients to pick a time that simply feels good to them.”

More Low-Stress Workout Tips Beth Shaw: I recommend high-intensity training first thing in the morning on an empty stomach three times a week, and adopting a yoga practice a few days a week that includes restorative yoga in the evenings to reduce cortisol.

Stephanie Mansour: Try high-intensity workouts for a few weeks. Take inventory of how you feel each day. Look at your progress over a few weeks to find a healthy balance. If it’s not working, change it up.

Tori Brown: If Pilates is your go-to exercise for strength training, opt for private training three times a week (minimum). If you are combining Pilates with other modes of exercise and really just need the cortisol downplay and core work, choose mat classes two times a week. Pilates private instruction will completely change the way you do all other forms of exercise. It is very different than all other exercise and very complementary.

nycnaturalawakenings.com

37

NEW YORK CITY COMMUNITY

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5

Free Lunchtime & Evening Meditation Sessions every Mon-Sat, 12:15-12:50pm; every Mon-Thus, 6-6:35pm. Meditations include chanting, kapalabhati, nadi suddhi, 15-20 minutes of silence, closing chants. For experienced meditation students. Others may wish to attend a Meditation I workshop at Integral Yoga Institute before joining an open meditation. Integral Yoga Institute, 227 W. 13th St. 212-929-0585. iyiny.org.

Monthly Five-Day Scientific Fasting and Meditation Retreat Jan 5-10. Get dramatic health benefits from a modest adjustment in how you eat, with a clinically proven regimen that mimics fasting with a low-calorie, low-protein, low-fat diet for five days every four months. Eastover Estate and Retreat, 430 East St., Lenox, MA. 866-264-5139.

Monday Night Alive! Seminar Eastover.com.

7-9:30pm. every Mon. Ariel and Shya Kane are Introduction to Alexander Technique catalysts for instantaneous transformation of 11am and 3pm. every Sun. Small-group in- careers, families and relationships. At this fun, structions. First class must be taken before lively, interactive seminar, they explain how other seven classes, then choose others in to have a stress-free, successful, satisfying, any order. Move with more ease, balance and easy life. $20. Skyline Hotel, 725 10th Ave. at coordination. Improve posture and breathing. 49th St., Penthouse Ballroom. TransformationAvoid, reduce or eliminate back, shoulder, neck MadeEasy.com. pain. $45. Think AT Studio, 200 Vesey St., 24th Fl. 646-632-5181. Mona@Think-at.com. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 Think-at.com.

Jyogan Reiki Treatment 5-8pm. every Wed. Jyogan is a Reiki Shihan MONDAY, JANUARY 6 (master teacher). $25/15-minute sample sessions; $50/30-minutes (front of the body); $100/60-minutes (front/back of the body).

Namaste Bookshop, 2 W 14th St, Manhattan.

212-645-1014. info@NamasteBookshop.com.

Transformation in the NamasteBookshop.com.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

New Year with Ariel and Shya Kane This year, why not try an alternative to New Year’s resolutions? Join wellness experts Ariel and Shya Kane and discover new possibilities for unprecedented success, ease and satisfaction. In this lively and fun evening seminar, the Kanes share the keys to Instantaneous Transformation—an approach that has supported millions of people around the world in having happier, healthier lives and relationships.

Through interactive discussions, you will learn practical and highly effective tools for everyday wellbeing. $20.

January 6 7 to 9:30 pm Skyline Hotel 725 10th Ave., Penthouse Ballroom TransformationMadeEasy.com

38 January 2020 | Calendars

Reiki Group Class 2nd Sun, 3-9pm. With Jyogan, Reiki Shihan (master teacher). Namaste Bookshop, 2 W 14th St, Manhattan. 917-723-4342. Jyogan@ TraditionalReikiCenter.com. TraditionalReikiCenter.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 Experience One Spirit Seminary Info Session 7pm video conference or 6:30pm in person (supper included). Learn about One Spirit’s interfaith/interspiritual seminary program, which cultivates spiritual awakening through its experiential, heart-centered educational model, following its vision to inspire sacred consciousness in service to individuals, communities and the earth. 247 W. 36th St., 6th Fl. 212-931-6840 x151. 1spirit.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 Tai Chi Easy™ and Chair Yoga: A Fusion Class Noon-1pm. Increase your vitality, balance and coordination with a unique class that combines Chair Yoga, qigong and Tai Chi Easy™ walking. All-levels class. Accessible to all bodies and ages. Come barefoot or wear indoor slippers or socks with traction. $15. Integral Yoga Institute, 227 W. 13th St. 212-929-0585. iyiny.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16

Radical Compassion: An Evening 7-9pm. With Tara Branch. Writer Tara Brach explores the alchemy of Radical Compassion and guides participants in awakening this intrinsic expression of our evolutionary potential. Ticket price includes copy of her upcoming book. $28/$35 (New York Open Center members/ nonmembers). Marble Collegiate Church, 1 West 29th St. @ Fifth Avenue. OpenCenter.org.

Good Intentions 2020 7pm. Explore the themes of positive psychology, formulating goals and intentions, and opening up through the art of meditation and writing with MNDFL teacher and writer Neil D’Astolfo and NY Times contributor and life coach Caren Osten. Bring a pen! mndflMeditation.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 Introduction to Alexander Technique 10am and 2pm. every Sat. In this 90-minute class, learn about the internal, built-in organization that helps you move with more ease, balance and coordination. Improve posture, breathe more efficiently and avoid, reduce or eliminate back, shoulder and neck pain. $45.

Think AT Studio, 200 Vesey St., 24th Fl. 646632-5181. Mona@Think-at.com. Think-at.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 A Course in Miracles Lecture 1:30-4pm. Jon Mundy, PhD, discusses Listening to Inner Guidance, based on A Course in Miracles, scribed by Dr. Helen Schucman in 1975. Mundy is the author of 10 books based on the Course. Center for Remembering and Sharing, 123 4th Ave. 212-677-8621. crsny.org or MiraclesMagazine.org.

New York City edition

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19 Breaking Free of Anxiety and Stress 10am-6pm. Psychotherapist and author Mel Schwartz’s approach to overcoming anxiety and self-empowerment is informed by principles of quantum physics. During this one-day workshop, you will learn how to transcend your limitations and open to your infinite possibilities. $180 and up. Lexington Avenue at 92nd Street. 92y.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 Reiki Share 4th Sun, 5:30-8pm. With Jyogan, Reiki Shihan (master teacher). Namaste Bookshop, 2 W 14th St, Manhattan. 917-723-4342. Jyogan@ TraditionalReikiCenter.com. TraditionalReikiCenter.com.

SPECIAL EVENT The Real Truth About Health: Free 10-Day Conference The largest live health and environmental conference in the world, featuring 34 world-renowned speakers.

Free vegan breakfast, lunch, dinner and ice cream served daily. Register free to attend in person.

January 24 - February 2 9am to 9:30pm daily Hilton Hotel, 598 Broad Hollow Rd., Melville, NY TheRealTruthAboutHealth.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 Replenishing Hope: Faith & Healing in a Time of Climate Change 7-9:30pm. Intuitive healer Peeka Trenkle discusses hope, faith and healing—the interconnectedness of human life with the entire living cosmos—and practical ways that we can participate in the healing of the whole world. $40/$50 (NYOC members/nonmembers). New York Open Center, 22 E. 30th St. OpenCenter.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10

SUNDAY, MARCH 8

Magical Relationships with Ariel and Shya Kane 7-9:30pm. Discover what’s at the heart of experiencing magic in all your relationships, especially the one with yourself. Join internationally acclaimed seminar leaders and bestselling relationship book authors Ariel and Shya Kane for this fun, interactive evening seminar. $20. Skyline Hotel, 725 10th Ave., Penthouse Ballroom. TransformationMadeEasy.com.

Heal the Healers Yoga Retreat March 8-13. Daily yoga and sound healing classes. Reiki healing with Maggie Law or Teresa Clancy by appointment. Self-guided daily meditation and reflection. Five nights’ accommodation. Daily healthy meals. Eastover Estate and Retreat, 430 East St., Lenox, MA. 866-264-5139. Eastover.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Book Signing with Shari Alyse 6:30-8:30pm. Shari Alyse is an international best-selling author and self-love coach and the founder of The Wellness Universe. She will be discussing her book Love Yourself Happy: A Journey Back To You. Aum Shanti Book Shop and Crystal Gallery, 230 E. 14th St. 212-5052665. AumShantiBookshop.com.

Peaceful Ocean View Spring Yoga Retreat in Puerto Rico March 22-27. Devaki Lammet, an internationally experienced yoga teacher since 2000, will lead this retreat in Rincon, Puerto Rico, featuring yoga, meditation, kirtan, Ayurvedic cooking workshops, vegan/vegetarian meals, beach trips, YACEP workshops. Registration deadline March 1. Early-bird registration through Feb. 1.

787-464-5651. PeacefulOceanView.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14

SUNDAY, MARCH 23

Re-Emerge: Shamanic Healing Retreat with Authentic Plant Medicine Feb. 14-22. With Monica Maria Aparicio, founder of the Earth Wisdom School of the Sacred Arts.

This all-inclusive retreat is an immersive experience into rediscovering your purpose through profound healing in sacred lands surrounded by the Andes Mountains. bit.ly/reemergenanyc.

Awakening Your True Voice with Jean McClelland March 23-April 27. Free intro session March 16. In six weekly sessions, learn to restore your powerful natural voice by releasing tension and fears that restrict the natural flow of breath, resulting in a forced, unnatural sound and blocked energy. New York Open Center, 22 E. 30th St. JeanMcClellandvoice.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14

Valentine Weekend Tea Tell Feb. 14-16. Jia Li, neuroscientist for the University of Massachusetts Medical School and founder of Tea Tell Truth, will host this teaSATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 themed workshop featuring lectures, meditaCaboBreathFest tions and ceremonies focused on Puerh Tea Feb. 1-21. Dr. Andrew Weil has said improper from Yunnan. Eastover Estate and Retreat, 430 breathing is a common cause of ill health. East St., Lenox, MA. 866-264-5139. Eastover.

Three-week event in San Jose del Cabo, com.

Mexico, features 81 breathing workshops with 40 international trainers. Proceeds support SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 the 501(c)3 Sunflower Foundation’s work in United Palace 90th Anniversary with Ms. developing countries and refugee camps. $100.

Lauryn Hill CaboBreathFest.org.

8pm. Celebrate the 90th anniversary of the United Palace with legendary singer, songwriter SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 and performer Ms. Lauryn Hill. This concert will be the first of numerous events commemorating the venue’s long history. United Palace, 4140 Broadway. $66 and up. 212-568-6700.

Ayurveda: A Modern UPSpiritualArts.org.

PLAN AHEAD

SAVE THE DATE

Approach with Ancient Healing Wisdom

One- or two-day workshop led by Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, ND, BAMS, MPH, MPA, E-RYT 500, from the Institute for the Advancement of Ayurvedic Sciences. $115/$215.

FEBRUARY 8-9 • 10am-5pm Balance Arts Center, 151 W. 33th St., 3rd Fl.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 A Women’s Empowerment Retreat Feb. 28-March 2. Led by sisters Gayle Damiano, an intuitive empowerment coach, and Christar Damiano, a lifestyle transformation coach. Three-night/four-day retreat on a private beach in Sarasota, FL. Yoga, live music, sound healing, private chef. Guest workshops with Felicia Rose and Jenny Hong. Space is limited.

DamianoSisters@gmail.com.

646-670-6725 nycnaturalawakenings.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 22

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 Self-Healing Retreat for Cancer Patients April 4-11. With Drs. Kevin Chen and Linda Nadia Hole. Support your cancer recovery with mind-body integration techniques and stress management. Learn evidence-supported selfhealing techniques to enhance recovery and develop a confident attitude about your life journey. Eastover Estate and Retreat, 430 East St., Lenox, MA. 866-264-5139. Eastover.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 17 Voice, Breath and Being with Jean McClelland May 17-22. Five-day residential intensive with Jean McClelland, a faculty member at the Columbia University School of the Arts. Omega Institute, 150 Lake Dr., Rhinebeck, NY. JeanMcClellandVoice.com.

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NYC FITNESS PRACTITIONERS We want to spotlight one of you in the next edition.

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39

NEW YORK CITY COMMUNITY

Your source for natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Ayurveda

NAMASTE BOOKSHOP & HEALING CENTER

Counseling & Mental Wellness MICHAEL MONGNO, MFT, PH.D, LP

Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, and detoxification. See ad pg 31

Namaste Bookshop and Healing Center offers a unique and large selection of Eastern and Western philosophy books, tarot cards, crystals, pendulums, calendars, wind chimes, incense, greeting cards, yoga accessories, meditation cushions, instructional and music CDs and DVDs, salt lamps, and 20 sections of books – including Spanish. The event space above the bookshop holds classes, workshops and book signings, and provides rooms for regular readers and practitioners

Conscious Centers

NEW YORK OPEN CENTER

DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC

26 East 36th St. (between Madison & Park) Appointments Thursdays; Cell: 646-670-6725 Drkaushik.com • drkaushik@drkaushik.com

AUM SHANTI BOOKSHOP

230 E 14th St, NYC 212-260-2866 • AumShantiBookshop.com Aum Shanti Bookshop is a community-oriented spiritual gallery providing offerings that inspire clarity, guidance and inspiration on one’s journey.

They offer high-vibration, reikicharged and spiritually energized items such as a semiprecious gems and tumbled stones, one-of-a kind rare crystal specimens and clusters, beautifully hand-crafted jewelry made with love and empowering energy. Join for tarot, psychic and astrology readings.

BALANCE ARTS CENTER

The Barbara Brennan School of Healing 151 W 30th Street NYC 561-620-8767 Denise.Mollo@BarbaraBrennan.com A premier institute of hands-on healing and personal transformation opening NYC YEAR 1 program at the Balance Arts Center

2 W 14th St, NYC 212-645-0141 • NamasteBookshop.com

22 E 30th St, NYC 212-219-2527 • OpenCenter.org The Open Center presents programs of exceptional depth and integrity, concentrating in five major areas: contemplative and spiritual traditions; health and wellness; psychology; society and ecology; and creativity and the arts. Programs and teachers focused on understanding health and mind-body healing, depth psychology, mystical and esoteric traditions, compassionate dying, socially responsible investing, humanity’s impact on the Earth and renewable energy, untapped sources for creativity in the arts and what we can learn from world cultures.

UNITED PALACE OF SPIRITUAL ARTS 4140 Broadway, NYC 212-568-6700 • UPSpiritualArts.org

As an inclusive spiritual community, the United Palace of Spiritual Arts seeks to cultivate compassion, wisdom, and peace through spiritual practices born of the great wisdom traditions, sacred service, and joyous connection to spirit through music, arts and entertainment.

Join us for Sunday service at 12pm EST or on live stream.

40 January 2020 | Community Resource Guide

New York City edition

Present Centered Therapies Upper West Side • 212-799-0001 DrMongno@PresentCenteredTherapies.com PresentCenteredTherapies.com Michael Mongno MFT, Ph.D LP is a licensed psychoanalyst, marriage and family therapist, and holistic counselor based in Manhattan.

Committed to creating a real difference in the world, his “Real change in real time” describes the dynamic, effective synthesis of personal growth and spiritual transformation.

His approach acknowledges our innate perfection and offers a powerful mindful path toward mental wholeness through the healing collaboration of body, mind, and spirit. You can read more at PresentCenteredTherapies.com.

Getaways & Retreats EASTOVER ESTATE AND RETREAT 430 East St, Box 2282, Lenox, MA 866-264-5139 • Eastover.com

Eastover is a 600-acre sanctuary and residential holistic retreat center in Berkshire Lenox, MA, a dedicated facilitator of holistic events and retreats. Minutes to Stockbridge and Great Barrington, next to October Mountain with views of Mt. Greylock. See ad, pg 33

Healing & Wellness MICHAEL BIAMONTE, CCN

The Biamonte Center for Clinical Nutrition 2185 34th Ave, Suite 14D Astoria, NY 11106 347-523-4703 NewYorkCityCandidaDoctor.com Michael Biamonte has been in practice for over 30 years, is the author of “The Candida Chronicles” and is a World Recognized Candida elimination expert. His office has proprietary software devel-

oped for NASA that helps identify and treat all nutritional deficiencies. Offering both online and In-Person appointments. See ad, pg 5

SCOTT CLOVER INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER

West Village, NYC • 917-916-8584 Scott@ScottClover.com www.ScottClover.com Heal what holds you back.

Feel better in your body. Scott reads your energy fields and guides you to a better understanding of yourself, your somatic (body-oriented) energy, your intuition, and the energetic dynamics that make up your life. Scott’s practical and non-dogmatic approach helps you perceive, address and resolve barriers that prevent you from achieving optimal wellbeing. Stand-alone or complementary with other healing modalities.

CELESTE DECAMPS

Empowerment Through Movement 102-10 66th Road Apt. 17B Forest Hills, NY 11375 917-907-4424 • CelesteDeCamps@gmail.com Celeste DeCamps, a professional speaker who helps women find their empowerment through movement.

Presentations are interactive and engaging. Learn how to change your attitude for the better in 2 minutes.

Book Celeste DeCamps for your next event or workshop. See ad, pg 29

ROGER DUBIN

Mr. Natural NYC 917-699-6492 • MrNaturalNYC@gmail.com Instagram @MrNaturalNYC Roger Dubin is a volunteer trail supervisor for the New York New Jersey Trail Conference, managing over 55 miles trails in South Eastern Harriman State Park. Follow him on Instagram for pictures and videos of the beautiful land that we live in. Roger is also the Marketing Director for Natural Awakenings in NYC.

JEAN MCCLELLAND, MMUS., MAMSAT JeanMcClellandVoice.com

Private lessons and workshops: voice, breathing and Alexander Technique. Jean McClelland has more than 40 years’ experience as a performer and teacher. She has helped thousands of students free their bodies, strengthen their breathing, and uncover the natural beauty of their voices. See ad, pg 9

LEE SCHWALB HEALING

370 Lexington Ave, Suite 2300, NYC 10017 150 East 58th Street, Fifth floor, NYC 10155 646-577-0142 • LeeJSchwalb@gmail.com LeeSchwalbHealing.com Lee Schwalb is a licensed Acupuncturist, Herbalist and certified Kambo Practitioner.

He has over eighteen years of clinical experience and has lectured around the world on the benefits of holistic medicine and detoxification. He specializes in auto-immune disorders and women’s health. See ad, pg 9

THINK AT

646-632-5181 • Think-AT.com Think AT is dedicated to teaching the Alexander Te c h n i q u e , m a i n l y through individual lessons. The name is inspired by the focus of Alexander Technique on “thinking,” which affects the way we live, including how we move whether with patterns of tension or ease. Teachers at Think AT have expertise with more than 15 years of training. See ad, pg 29

Think AT Alexander Technique

UNITY ANGEL HEALING

Reverened Elka Boren 772-223-4143 ElkaInfo@UnityAngelHealing.com UnityAngelHealing.com

ad, pg 14

Shaman Healer. Psychic Medium.

Clairvoyant. Light Language Teacher & Trainings. Long Distance. Healings & Readings. House Clearings. The 7 Archangel Healing System. Tea Leaf Readings. See

Health Food Store ABRAHAM’S NATURAL FOODS

9 Long Branch Ave., Long Branch, NJ 732-229-5799 AbrahamsHummos@gmail.com AbrahamsNatural.com We’re passionate about creating healthy foods.

Our hummos boasts the industry’s lowest calories, fat, and sodium, without a drop of artificial preservatives. We use raw apple cider vinegar in every batch to get that wonderful zingy taste and for all the incredible health benefits. Unlike other companies, Abraham’s does not contain any added oils (ie: canola or soy). We only use healthy, nutritious tahini. Abraham’s is located in “middle eastern New Jersey,” and you can find our best-selling Middle Eastern product line in Fairway Market, Whole Foods Market, and many gourmet and natural food stores across the tri-state area. See ad, pg 31 nycnaturalawakenings.com

WHOLE FOODS MARKET 8 Locations in Manhattan WholeFoodsMarket.com

Whole Foods Market is an Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products. We support local communities & agriculture, practice and advance environmental stewardship, support & rewards team member excellence, and encourage and educate on all aspects of healthy living. See ad, pg 33

Laser Skin Care HILDA DEMIRJIAN LASER AND SKIN CARE CENTER

34 South Broadway, Ste 607, White Plains, NY 914-374-1756 HildaDemirjianLaser.com Since 1974, Hilda Demirjian has been a leader in the use of laser collagen treatments for better, younger- looking skin. Effective on the face, neck and body for fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, discoloration, scars, cellulite, rosacea, stretch marks, skin tightening and turkey neck. Non-invasive, fast treatments with no downtime. call today for your confidential consultation!

Natural Dentistry Edward J Degel, DDS 17 Park Place, NYC

92-42 Queens Blvd., Rego Park, NY 718-429-6867

Holistic dentistry for the entire family. Initial exam and ex-ray $99. Safe removal of mercury fillings with oxygen and lower level lasers. We also offer metal-free crowns and bridges. Most insurance accepted.

TRIBECA CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE HOLISTIC DENTISTS 17 Park Place, NYC 212-732-2200 • Holistic-Dentists.com

Dr. Lewis Gross has more than 31 years’ experience providing holistic dentistry to adults and children with his staff of dental specialists and integrative practitioners. Offering less invasive and more natural solutions for patients with difficult dental issues and those who seek just a good family dentist. Our recently renovated, state-of-the-art facility, offers among other things, laser dentistry, metal-free implants, non-invasive oral cancer screening, ozone and alternatives to surgery and root canal.

41

Natural Pet

GOOD GREEN CLEANER

TAILS OF DOG: FORCE FREE TRAINING and Behavior

Good Green Cleaners are nontoxic, biodegradable, reusable and recyclable cleaners for your home. Our Odor Eliminator & All Purpose Cleaner is the first Probiotic Cleaner on the market eliminating bacteria naturally. Cleaning is now safer and better than conventional cleaners.

646-675-8692 • TailsOfDog.com Tails of Dog provides force- free, customized, top-quality dog training and behavioral guidance for owners and their dogs.

From puppyhood to the golden years, communicating with your dog involves more than just training; it’s a lifestyle. Tails of Dog invites you to continue your tale whether you are navigating through basic manner cues or a more serious behavioral issue.

Naturopathic Doctor DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC

26 East 36th St. (between Madison & Park) Appointments Thursdays; Cell: 646-670-6725 Drkaushik.com • drkaushik@drkaushik.com Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health.

Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, and detoxification. See ad, pg 31

Ozone Therapy DR. HOWARD ROBINS

The Healing Center 200 W 57th St, Ste 807, NYC 212-581-0101 • DrHowardRobins@gmail.com If you have a disease or condition that you haven’t been able to get rid of, Ozone Therapy will most likely be the answer, even for people that have suffered for years and have lost all hope. If you are questioning if your condition can be treated, call or email Dr. Robins today. See ad, pgs 3 & 30

Natural Products ANATTA

447 Broadway, Suite 204 New York City, NY 10013 347-762-1268 • www.AnattaMarket.com Anatta is a global online marketplace for natural, organic and raw products from farmers worldwide. The newly-formed company’s products include a variety of essential oils and waters, and its unique business model eliminates overhead costs by connecting customers directly with farmers.

844-285-8811 • info@goodgreencleaner.com GoodGreenCeaner.com

HEALTHYLINE

NYC Midtown Store 41 W 36th St. Ground Fl. Midtown Store: 212-300-5092 Products: 888-774-4422 Support@HealthyLine.com • HealthyLine.com Natural gemstone heat therapy with 5 in 1 technology including far infrared, photon lights, PEMF, negative ions.

See ad, pg 2

HERBASWAY

800-672-7322 • HerbaSway.com Founded in 1996, HerbaSway Laboratories is located in Wallingford, CT. Our formulas are based on traditional herbal combinations that have been used for thousands of years. Using only the purest ingredients and wild-crafted herbs, in combination with the latest Western scientific research, HerbaSway’s formulas are synergistically blended to produce optimal balance in your body. See ad, pg 6

SKINNYPILLOW

Carlos Shiera cshiera@skinnypillow.com 305-987-3879 • www.SkinnyPillow.com

Skin Care ARDOR LASER AND SKIN CARE 222 East 34th Street, NYC 917-444-1097 info@ardorlaserandskincare.com

Ardor Laser and Skin Care offers today's latest treatment modalities.

Featuring one of the most modern Laser treatment technology - the Aerolase Neo and the Aerolase Era. Clients can greatly improve their skin by alleviating wrinkles, fine lines, acne, rosacea, and other insecurities. See ad, pg 29

Traditional Reiki REV. JYOGAN

Reiki Shihan (Master Teacher) 917-723-4342 • TraditionalReikiCenter.com Jyogan@TraditionalReikiCenter.com Jyogan is one of only a few reiki master teachers who have studied traditional Japanese-style reiki directly in Kyoto, Japan while he was living in that sacred city where reiki originated. Jyogan passes this direct connection to reiki root practices and teachings on to you. Learn and experience reiki from its source. Other teachers of reiki teach westernized reiki. Reiki group classes are held monthly on the 2nd Sunday and Reiki Shares on the 4th Sunday of every month at Namaste Bookshop’s Healing Center near Union Square. Private classes and treatment sessions can be scheduled at any time. Jyogan is also a Ministerial Director and officiates weddings as well as ordains other Ministers.

SkinnyPillow is the allnatural pillow made from ultra-soft kapok and organic cotton covers. No synthetics, no chemicals and no animal parts. Free shipping to all the U.S.A.

STICK STONE AND BONE 113 Christopher Street, NYC 212-807-7024

Founded in 1990, Stick Stone and Bone is a boutique oasis located in that heart of the West Village that specializes in rare gemstones, handmade jewelry, high-quality incense, sacred herbs, and ornamental items with meditative and natural qualities.

See ad, pg 19

42 January 2020 | Community Resource Guide

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