Natural Nutmeg January 2020

January/February 2020

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Essential Living

Could Your Lifestyle Be Causing Infertility?

Nicole Kerr, ND, LAc

Are You Buying Health Care…

Or Disease Care?

Ann Aresco, ND

5 High Performance Anti-Aging Oils You Need This Winter Richard Fanelli

5 Tips to DeStress in the New Year Kate Zachau, DO

Is Stress Literally WEIGHING You Down?

Calypso Portugaels, CCH

Restaurants Keeping It Real

Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

The Final Resolution Sonia V. Manganello, DD, DM, CNC, CHC

Celebrating 14 Years of Publishing www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

No Dental Insurance?

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Call Heather or Katie at (860) 640-4447

Information at: SouthWindsorSmiles.com/savings

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Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT Mon - Sat 8am - 9pm / Sun 9am - 6pm 860.646.8178 • www.cthealthshop.com

Shop here. Feel better.

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FEBRUARY 20, 2020 AT 7:30PM PALACE THEATER | WATERBURY, CT

203.346.2000 | PALACETHEATERCT.ORG | 100 EAST MAIN STREET, WATERBURY CT

THE SPA IS THE PLACE TO BE You can book an appointment and buy gift omsoma.com

Phone 860.678.7880 • Text 860.712.1762 www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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PUBLISHER'SLETTER

I

love to start a new year by taking some time to acknowledge everything I accomplished in the past year and celebrate my “wins”! I actually spend the last week of December and first week of January doing this. I also take time to thoughtfully examine where I am in my life currently and more importantly, am I still passionate about it. Here are the questions I ask myself and hope that you will take some time to as well: What if I had only one year to live? What would I do? What places would I visit? Who would I spend my time with? How many of you have contemplated these questions? I mean seriously contemplated to the point that you have identified all of the things that you are most passionate about and maybe even created a “100 Things to Do Before I Die” list.

In our crazy, busy, jam-packed lives many of us are just going through the motions.

We work because we have to, not because we’re passionate about our job. We stay in a relationship because it’s comfortable and we’re afraid to leave because there might not be anything better out there. We have a family because that’s what you do after you go to college, get a job and get married. But now we have no time for ourselves. We go to the gym and get on the same treadmill or elliptical machine a few days a week and suffer through the same boring, monotonous exercise routine and our fitness never seems to change. Does any of this sound familiar? If so, you’ve lost your passion and you need to get it back, NOW! Far too many people go through life without making any effort to truly live passionately…to get that fire in their soul for enjoying life and living it to the fullest. The worst tragedy in the world is the person who has lost his passion.

To engage in work or relationships that do not cultivate your passion sabotages your spirit and extinguishes your life flame. You must love what you do and your heart must be in it. Without passion you will never work to your fullest ability, potential and greatness; you will settle for being mediocre and complacent.

How do you get your passion back? Spend a weekend, a month, a year identifying what you love and do it. Here’s how:

1. List 3 times in your life when you were excited and passionate about what you were doing in your career or personal life.

2. What commonalities can you draw from the times you were most passionate?

3. Make a list of what you would do if you only had one year to live.

4. From your one year to live list, take time to explore some of your greatest passions.

5. Find some quiet time to think about who you are, what you represent and what you would like to create in the world.

O

ur mission is to provide valuable insight, information and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

PUBLISHER Dr. Diane Hayden Diane@naturalnutmeg.com ADVERTISING advertising@naturalnutmeg.com DIR. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Christopher Urso Curso@naturalnutmeg.com FAIRFIELD COUNTY MARKETING DIRECTOR Frances Wall Higgins frances@naturalnutmeg.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com ADVISORY BOARD Ann Aresco, ND Adam Breiner, ND Mark Breiner, DDS Deanna M. Cherrone, MD Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.)

Debra Gibson, ND Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N Lauren Young, ND

Don’t wait until you are faced with the reality of dying to do these things. My greatest hope for you is that you will live completely, fearlessly, and passionately.

In Health and Happiness,

DISTRIBUTION Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg.

FFC - Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC

Natural Nutmeg Magazine

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Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut.

Please call for a location near you. (860) 508-0894 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com. © 2007-20 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved.

Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that permission be obtained in writing. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the ar ticles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and ser vices adver tised. We welcome your feedback.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

In This Issue 12 13 14 15 17 19 21

Restaurants Keeping It Real Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

New Year, New You!

25 26

Sharon Sklar

6 Ways Clutter Is Affecting Your Health

29

Regina Sanchez

New Year, New Financial Life

31

Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

5 High Performance Anti-Aging Oils You Need This Winter Richard Fanelli

Make Stress Your Goal This Year Paige Dest

Exploring Infertility with Shamanic or Hypnotic Regressive Techniques Joyce St. Germaine,

23

In Every Issue

M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200

Are You Buying Health Care…Or Disease Care?

Ann Aresco, ND

32 34 35 37 42

Do You Need a Detox?

Katy Firisin, ND

Could Your Lifestyle Be Causing Infertility?

THE BUZZ

8

NUTMEG NUGGETS

Nicole Kerr, ND, LAc

5 Steps for The Basics of Improving Fertility

38

HAPPENINGS

Jennifer C. Pierre, ND, MPH

40

RESOURCES

5 Tips to DeStress in the New Year Kate Zachau, DO

Is Stress Literally WEIGHING You Down?

Calypso Portugaels, CCH

Is Stress Sabotaging your Weight Loss Efforts?

Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN

Hypnosis: A Proven, No Diet, Weight Loss Solution Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv

The Final Resolution

Find more articles and

Sonia V. Manganello, DM, DD, CNC

Was that a Spiritual Set-up?

search our web archive at naturalnutmeg.com

Robin Clare, MBA

See What's in Store for 2020 We're ready with plans for the content you love from Natural Nutmeg

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March • The Gut Microbiome • Ayurveda Therapies April • Effects of Diet & Environment on Autoimmune Disease • CBD Therapy for Chronic Disease May/June • Women’s/Men’s Health • Treatment for Lyme Disease July/August • Managing Stress & Anxiety in Children • Aging Gracefully

September • The Natural Home • Natural Treatments for Chronic Pain October • Natural Treatments for Cancer • Mindfulness & Self-Care November/December • The Epidemic of Diabesity • Brain Health 2020 10BEST/ Essential Living Guide • Stress Reduction • Sleep Optimization

Contact diane@naturalnutmeg.com to feature your business in Natural Nutmeg!

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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THE BUZZ Deepak Chopra Presents: THE NATURE OF REALITY February 20th Palace Theater, Waterbury

D

eepak Chopra, the worldrenowned pioneer in integrative medicine and personal transformation is coming to the Palace Theater in Waterbury on February 20, 2020, 7:30pm. The New York Times bestselling author, will present a talk on “THE NATURE OF REALITY.” Tickets may be purchased at www.palacetheaterct.org, by calling the Box office at 203.346.2000 or in person at 100 East Main Street, Waterbury. This unique event is sponsored by Post University.

Chopra’s latest book, “Metahuman: Unleashing Your Infinite Potential - A Personal Guide to Ultimate Transformation, Peak Experiences and Revolutionizing How You Live and Work” was released in October, 2019. “There are countless ways we make our intentions come true, and people are constantly looking for the right one. The promise of making our dreams come true remains baffling, however. Some people manifest their deepest dreams, wishes, and desires while countless others do not,” says Chopra.

Join Chopra as he addresses these questions as well as practical ways to experience transformation and healing.

Deepak Chopra, founder of The Chopra Foundation and co-founder of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, is a worldrenowned pioneer in integrative medicine and personal transformation, and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Metabolism. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Clinical Professor at UCSD Medical School, Researcher, Neurology and Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. The World Post and The Huffington Post global internet survey ranked Chopra #17 influential thinker in the world and #1 in Medicine. Chopra is the author of more than 86 books translated into over 43 languages, including 25 New York Times bestsellers.

For more information visit: www.deepakchopra.com About the Palace Theater The Palace's primary purpose is to revitalize the Greater Waterbury community through the presentation of the performing arts and educational initiatives in collaboration with area cultural and educational institutions. Its mission is to preserve and operate the historic Palace Theater as a performing arts center and community gathering place that provides a focal point of cultural activity and educational outreach for diverse audiences.

For more information, visit: www.palacetheaterct.org.

See ad on page 3.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

AutumnTide Herbal Wellness Offers Herbal Medicine for Chronic Pain

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utumnTide Herbal Wellness is a specialized herbal clinic that utilizes both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Traditional Western Herbal Medicine. Our highly-trained clinician, Barbara Scavotto, consults with each client to understand their personal health goals, history, and constitution, then uses her knowledge of individual herbs to custom blend a formula that is specific to that client. Barbara addresses the health of the whole person and provides recommendations that target the root cause of the client’s concerns. Improved overall health that begins with the primary area of concern is our ultimate vision.

At AutumnTide Herbals we are aware that there are so many herbs and treatment protocols available that clients can often feel overwhelmed or lost. Our approach allows us to match the most specific herbs and protocols for each client.

Barbara specially blends and crafts tinctures, herbal caplets, granular formulas, topicals, salves, ointments, powders, poultices, syrups, and teas. These are formulated for each individual which then allows her to carefully monitor her clients progress to increase efficacy and decrease the time it takes for results to be seen.

Clients can be assured that herbal medicine is a highly effective modality for a number of conditions and complements other therapies. Barbara has worked with many conditions including insomnia, menopausal complaints, PMS and reproductive issues, and eczema. In addition, she has focused on migraine and headache treatments as well as anxiety and depression. Further, clients coming to AutumnTide Herbals have found that herbal medicine shines in acute and chronic pain conditions and offers many options to decrease pain and improve function and quality of life.Our clients always know that we listen, empathize, and truly care.

Call to schedule a consultation at 860.837.1588 or e-mail us at autumntideherbals@gmail.com. Visit our website: www.autumntideherbalwellness.com. Located in Enfield, CT. See ad on page 23.

THE BUZZ All-Inclusive Health and Wellness Practice Opens New Office in Downtown Glastonbury

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nlightened Health Partners, a leader in Integrative health, is announcing today a brand-new location to serve their growing client base.

This is the combination of multiple successful practices joining forces to give the local community of Glastonbury, as well as the state of Connecticut, an opportunity to receive an all-inclusive wellness experience optimizing their overall well-being. Clients can visit to participate in a variety of 20+ services along with offerings of workshops, educational classes, events, and destination retreats. “We are excited for our staff to serve the integrative medicinal needs of residents in our area,” said Dr. Sonia V. Manganello. “This new collaborative practice will provide quality health and wellness services in a centralized location in Connecticut all under one roof. Most importantly is the accessibility and affordability to clients for services since our practice accepts most health insurances.”

Enlightened Health Partners are an innovative group of certified and accredited professionals, with over 125 years of combined experience in the healthcare and wellness industry, medical, nursing and insurance fields, and business intelligence. The location and hours of Enlightened Health Partners are: 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury CT. Open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon-Fri. Sat 9am to 2pm. For more information about Enlightened Health Partners or to make an appointment, please visit www.ehpglastonbury.com.

Weekend Weight Gain

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o you find that you eat really well all week long and then get completely off track on the weekends? If so, you’re not alone. A recent study from Cornell University found that most people gain weight on Saturday and Sunday thanks to weekend socializing and indulgences, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Here are a few tips to help you put a healthy spin on the weekends while still enjoying yourself.

1. Eating to unwind: It’s been a long intense week and you use food to reward yourself for putting up with your killer commute, incompetent co-workers, or demanding boss.

Solution: Relaxation is vital to good health. Overeating can feel good while you are doing it, but the high only lasts for a short time. Instead, think about ways to indulge yourself that are not food related like meeting a special friend for a walk and talk.

2. Alcohol: The extra glass of wine or cocktail at dinner can pack a caloric punch.

Solution: Allow yourself no more than two drinks on each weekend night and be conscious that alcohol can stimulate your appetite and decrease your inhibitions about eating more than you otherwise might.

3. Lack of daily structure: While kicking back and doing nothing is the ultimate weekend plan, having nothing to do or no place to go can lead to overeating.

Solution: Stick to your weekday meal and snack routine as much as possible. When you’re at home, don’t hang out in the kitchen unless you are cooking or eating planned meals.

By Jane Grant, RD. If you need additional assistance in meeting your weight loss goals contact Grant’s Nutrition & Wellness at 860.357.2282 to make an appointment. We accept most insurances. Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness, Jane Grant, RD CD-N. 37 Webster Square Road, Berlin, CT. 860.357.2282, grantj@grantsnutrition.com

Sacred Rivers Yoga Center 28 Main Street East Hartford, CT 06118 Phone: 860.657.9545 Fax: 860.657.3161 www.sacredriversyoga.com Paula Scopino ~ Owner/Director Yoga Alliance 200 & 500 Hour Teacher Training Yoga Therapy Workshops

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” tance weights or bands, elements of cardio integration with speed and intensity, and a more methodical focus on small and large muscle groups in Barre and Pilates. Each creates a very different physiological response as one’s body adapts to different physical stresses.

Can Yoga Really Help With Weight Loss?

T

he personal stories speak for the benefits that yoga has for people’s quality of life beyond the obvious gains in strength and flexibility: reduction in pain, mental agility, stress reduction, improved sleep, and frequently even weight loss. Such experiences have fueled organic growth in yoga as the 4th fastest industry in the US with 36 million reported in 2016, and projected to more than 50 million in 2020. The trend appears irreversible mainly by the fact that after a yoga class, the vast majority say they feel much better (87% in fact!). So, this invites the question, what can yoga do for me?

Spirituality, meditation, and flexibility have been a hallmark of yoga practice world-wide but we find it is far more than this as more types of yoga and variants are created. Benefits to stress reduction, sleep, clarity, and focus are now being borne out in both social research and neuroscience, but some qualifiers are needed on what we call yoga to keep up with its more modern implementations.

Yoga in its most basic form is a lifestyle of union that can be altogether spiritual, mental, and physical with yourself and surroundings. The Yogic method has become more physical developed around a series of postures and concentration on your breath rhythm and control. Strength, flexibility, and concentration are simultaneously developed through a progression of difficulty in postures. Along with this, science now identifies a release of hormones with oxygen flow, muscle activation, and focus toward your breath and body. As yoga has been popularized, the basic principles have been expanded to use heat and humidity, various “flows” one posture to another, light resis-

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Regarding weight loss, a typical yoga practice burns 460 to 540 calories, about the same as a brisk walk of the same duration; heat has only a modest increase; and a faster pace yoga session with light resistance and cardio boosts the metabolic rate further. Your body’s weight is a balance between a person’s individual body type, in-take, and exertion, so it is difficult to attribute to any one thing, and begets the beauty of yoga practice. The essence of yoga is connecting the body and mind and all the direct effects of stress reduction and presence of mind now become a foundation for sustainable weight loss, mindful eating, and better choices. Add weights, a vinyasa flow, Barre, or blends with Pilates and high intensity interval training (HIIT), and you have a phenomenal platform for an active lifestyle with weight loss that has lower joint stress than many other forms of exercise. Data shows an inverse relation of years of yoga practice and all the measures for weight loss (body mass index, weight, fat, size). One study of 15,550 adults found those who practiced yoga 4 years or more were 2-4 times less likely to gain weight than those who did not practice yoga. In other words, the longer you do it, the more benefits you get toward weight loss, an active lifestyle, and sustainable health.

Perhaps more interesting is the social aspects reported in yoga and weight-loss studies. In a controlled study of 20 participants, those in the over-weight category found a positive influence of yoga community and culture toward weight loss, and 100% found psychological changes, with leading drivers in mindfulness and focus (91%), improved mood and emotional stability (91%), and reduced stress (73%). Simply participating in yoga seems to have a direct effect on diet, with the same study showing 78% and 100% of normal weight and overweight participants, respectively, experiencing a shift toward healthy eating. Several other studies find similar outcomes with postulated reasons, though causes are not conclusive.

There are no pre-requisites to yoga, it is truly for every body type. A recommended frequency is at least 3-4 times a week (including home practice), or yoga as a supplement to other exercise for a combined frequency of 4-5 times a week. As your body adapts, you define a new normal for your metabolism and hormonal balance. Find variety and challenge. With continued practice your body becomes more efficient and requires less concentration, less energy is expended, and change keeps it fun! And, perhaps the strongest factor in sustainability is the community of support and acceptance you find at a studio. Go find a good one and get out on the mat.

Submitted by Tory Brogan of Hartford Sweat Yoga & Fitness, located at 777 Main Street, Downtown Hartford.

Do you have questions regarding yoga and fitness for your own health journey? Would you like further information about article references, or to explore related ideas, please contact Tory Brogan at tory@hartfordsweat.net. See ad on page 7.

Nutmeg “Nuggets”

A Chinese Medicine Perspective on Weight Loss

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eight loss and eating healthier are at the top of the list for New Year’s resolutions. Many people choose to do a fast or juice cleanse, mainly because it creates the most dramatic shift in one’s habits and lifestyle. From a Chinese medicine perspective, many things are taken into account when cleansing like where you live, what the weather is like, what your constitution is, as well as your state of mind, lifestyle, life stresses and any health issues you may have. We are all unique and are thus treated as uniquely.

Since winter is a cold time of year, warming foods are recommended, not cold foods like juices, smoothies and salads. Generally, cold foods in a cold time of year can slow down digestion creating digestive problems, stomach aches, pain in the joints, internal cold and dampness, menstrual pain, as well as a host of other issues. Winter is associated with the organ and energy of the kidney in the Chinese medical calendar. It is a perfect time to go within, rest, and conserve life’s energy (Qi ) for the following season. It is a good time to observe how we waste our energy on worry, fear, anxiety, and stress.

What is your unique constitution? We each tend to be either hot, cold, damp or dry or any combination of those qualities and it can change at different times of year with the weather or health conditions. For a winter cleanse, Chinese dietary therapy recommends having warming and nourishing soups and lightly cooked foods, while eliminating alcohol, dairy and meat in the early months of the year.

Vegetables as well as some organic chicken, fish and eggs will be incorporated with warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and garlic.

How we cook food changes its energetics. Steaming or cooking in liquid are the least hot, baking adds more dry heat, while frying adds heat and grease to your diet. Food cooked in these last two ways would not be recommended for people who have hot, dry or damp constitutions since it could exacerbate their conditions. Hot, greasy foods clog up the digestion, create inflammation and add excess fat. When trying to cleanse the digestive system, eating as lightly and as cleanly as possible will give the best results and help you to feel cleaner and clearer.

Reading, writing, yoga, qigong, tai chi and non-stressful activities are more conducive to restoring your health in the winter months.

Aligning yourself with the rhythms of nature will help you to heal more thoroughly and feel more centered within yourself. I recommend a 7-day soup cleanse, qigong exercises, meditation and journaling for a complete and gentle cleanse for the body, mind and spirit. Reach out to me at if you are interested in learning more.

At Donna Bunte Whole Health, I help people become well by looking at the whole picture and finding the cause of the problem. I work in partnership with the patient to bring the body into balance using the tools of Chinese diagnosis, acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle changes, as well as qigong and meditation. health@donnabunte.com, 203.253.9885, www.donnabunte.com.

See ad on page 15.

A Different Way to Look At Weight Loss

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e all know there are so many ways to lose weight.

There are diets: keto, paleo, low carb, high fat; cleanses; hypnosis; weight watchers; and countless apps to help you stay on track. The hope is that you can find the “one thing” that works for you. At Imagine Float we want to share with you a different way of looking at weight loss.

To paraphrase Dory from “Finding Nemo,” one of the key aspects of weight loss or curtailing weight gain is to be able to, “just keep moving.” Whether it is a regular fitness routine or making sure you get in your 10,000 steps per day, being able to stick with and maintain daily movement is key to maintaining or losing weight. When starting an exercise routine or increasing your intensity and frequency, it is common that you may experience soreness and stiffness as well as muscle aches and pains. This shouldn’t be a reason to stop.

The compression therapies we offer at Imagine Float helps increase circulation, improve range of motion, and reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (known as DOMS), so you can speed up your recovery and get back to moving. It’s a simple therapy that allows you to rest and recover while experiencing relief from muscle soreness. Our compression therapies use dynamic compression or pulsing instead of using static pressure to transport fluid out of the limbs. This helps flush out lactic acid and recirculate blood flow in your legs and arms. This pulsing action more effectively mimics the muscle pump of the legs and arms, greatly enhancing the movement of fluid and metabolites out of the limbs after a workout.

We offer three different body part attachments. If you’re starting a running or walking program, our boots will help decrease muscle soreness in your legs so you can get back on your feet and reach your fitness goals. Our upper body attachments for shoulders and arms will help you minimize aches and pains attributed with strength training, swimming or any racquet sports. Beginning a new physical activity can take a toll on our lower backs. Our mid-body attachment for hips, lower back and buttocks offers pulsing relief in areas that are often hard to treat.

Imagine Float offers all three compression attachments under one roof making it convenient and easy to take care of your aches and pains so you can continue blazing your path to your fitness and health goals. If your find that your daily movement is impaired due to muscle pain and soreness, consider a 30-minute compression therapy for immediate relief.

Your body and your mind will reap the benefits.

Imagine Float can be found at 290 West Main Street/Route 44 (next to the Perfect Toy) in Avon, CT. For more information, go to imaginefloat.com or call 860.255.7771. See ad on page 18. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Nutmeg “Nuggets”

store, wondering, “Which bar is best?” For these instances, I’ve created a foolproof guide to picking out a last-minute snack.

What to Look for in a Protein/Snack Bar

Fertility Nutrition: What to Look for in a Healthy Snack

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lan ahead, be prepared… It’s what I always say, both to myself and my patients. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at RMA of Connecticut, I work with men and women as they go through fertility treatments. My personal contribution is to give them tools they need to live a life of wellness. How best to do that? Plan ahead, be prepared. I live by this mantra.

But sometimes, we can’t plan ahead.

We aren’t prepared. Either we forget, plans change, or we really, really, really don’t like what we prepped. I get it. We’ve all been there. So now, you’re starving and wandering the aisles of a convenience

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Choose “Whole” Foods: The fewer ingredients the better. Why? The more in control you are of the ingredients you consume, the better you’ll feel about your choice. Avoid artificial colors and flavors, which usually signify a heavily processed, high-calorie/low-nutrient food that can lead to spikes in blood sugar.

Also avoid hydrogenated fats and oils, which create trans fats (the bad fats).

Sugar: Look for a bar that has 6g or less of added sugar. The more added sugar, the more quickly the food will digest, causing a spike in blood sugar.

Whole Grains: Always make sure to include whole grains. Pair them with heart-healthy fats (think nuts, avocado, nut butters) and/or protein to achieve the desired balance. This balance of ingredients helps to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels, as well as provide longlasting energy.

Fiber: Look for at least 3 grams of fiber. This is one of the added benefits of choosing whole grains not to mention antioxidants and B vitamins. Fiber helps with satiety, meaning it keeps you fuller

longer. It also helps with glucose and insulin control (slows the absorption of glucose into your bloodstream), and it can help keep your heart healthy by pulling cholesterol out of your body.

Protein: Aim to pick a bar with at least 3 grams of protein. Higher protein can help with satiety, and along with any healthy fats, it helps balance the carbohydrates in the bar for improved blood sugar levels.

In moments of desperation, I find myself grabbing a Kind bar for a sweet and salty crunch or a Lara bar to sneak in some fruit or veggies. They have clean ingredients, naturally occurring sugars (not added), and they have a balance of protein to whole grains to heart-healthy fats. Remember that each small step in wellness gets you closer to your goals.

Whether you’re in the middle of an IVF cycle, you need to lower your blood sugar, or you just want to lead a healthier lifestyle, committing to a life of wellness will always help you reach your goals.

Plan ahead, be prepared…you know, as best you can.

Submitted by Jill Hickey, RDN at RMA of Connecticut.

See ad below.

inner conversation, and the development of intuition, empathy, and compassion.

As one of WHY’s trainees succinctly summarized, “Simply put, the WHY teacher training has somehow marked the actual beginning of my life.”

3. Leadership Skills. Break free from inhibitions and discover your true voice.

Leave the program with increased confidence, an ability to speak clearly and gracefully in front of a group, and the fortitude to remain calm during moments of stress. The WHY Power Yoga training encourages you to read and feel the energy of others, which not only allows you to teach effectively, but also gives you skills that you can take back to your daily job.

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Explore Your Potential: WHY 200-Hour Power Yoga Teacher Training

t can be challenging to carve out 90 minutes for a yoga class, never mind a six-month teacher training program.

What if that program could strengthen your body, calm your mind, boost your confidence, and improve your overall health? If you love yoga, you will love this training.

If you want to share your passion, or if you simply want to immerse yourself into a community of like-minded individuals, the West Hartford Yoga (WHY) 200-hour Power Yoga teacher training is for you.

1. Deepen your Practice. No matter how long you’ve been practicing yoga, our immersive teacher training program can help you increase body awareness, flexibility, and strength. As you study poses and learn about alignment, modifications, and proper breathing, you will grow stronger in a safe, welcoming environment. WHY Power Yoga is a thoughtful and precise style of yoga created by Barbara Ruzansky, integrating 30 years of experience with Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow, Forrest Yoga®, Kripalu, and Bikram Yoga. It builds core power, promotes a cleansing sweat, and offers the opportunity for healing.

2. Self-Discovery. As you work your way through physical and mental challenges during the training, you will learn how to help others through theirs, discovering an inner strength you might not realize you have! As a bonus, you may discover how to better care for yourself through nutritional awareness, a healthier

4. Support and Friendship. Last, and most important, you become part of the amazing yoga family that develops during the training. Everyone around you is experiencing their own struggles and together you will learn to break down barriers, give and receive support, and accept each other for who you are, creating powerful bonds that can last years, if not a lifetime.

For any interested veterans, West Hartford Yoga offers the only qualified yoga teacher training program in CT recognized by the VA. Qualified veterans and their dependents can use their Post-911 GI Bill benefits to cover tuition and fees.

Nutmeg “Nuggets”

Centers For Dental Medicine Saving Lives One Smile at a Time :

Why Dr Steven Hinchey?

Both he and his staff

Listen to YOU - Non judgmental assessments - Respect for you and your time Are concerned about YOU - Mercury free dental treatment - Mercury safe dental conditions - Mercury removal and detoxification - Biocompatible dental materials - Minimally invasive procedures - Implant tooth replacement - Same day non-metal crowns We want to help YOU get healthy - Financial Flexibility Steven F Hinchey, DMD

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The WHY Power Yoga teacher training will give you tools to continue a healthy, holistic journey, along with enough support to last a lifetime, whether or not you choose to teach.

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West Hartford Yoga is offering a free information session with Barbara Ruzansky and her senior instructors on Saturday, January 4 at 4pm

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Restaurants Keeping It Real

By Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

D

o you like to eat out? I do! Of course, cooking at home is more cost effective and can be the healthier choice, but eating out is fun, relaxing and can be a delicious culinary treat. I have to admit that I am pretty picky about the restaurants that I choose, because I will only go if I can eat real food made with the best ingredients.

I thought that I would share how I figure that out and create a list of Connecticut restaurants that are getting it right. In the coming months, I will spotlight a different restaurant in each issue. How do I vet each restaurant? I eat there, ask questions, talk to the staff, chef and owners if possible and look at their website.

The Questions to Ask 1. Farm to Table. Do they source their food primarily from local farms? Is this listed on the menu or a board?

2. Oils. Do they use canola, corn, sunflower, safflower, soybean, peanut or a blended oil? Will they simply use extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil if you ask?

3. Animal Protein. Do they have menu options for 100% grass-fed meat, organic or pastured chicken, wild or sustainable farmraised fish that is carefully vetted?

4. Organic. Do they have organic options on the menu at all times (an organic salad)? Are they aware of the Dirty Dozen list from The Environmental Working Group and if so do they incorporate organic options of these foods into their menus? Are they familiar with the fact that non-GMO products can contain pesticides?

5. Ingredients. Do they use real ingredients and avoid high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors and preservatives?

6. Allergy friendly. Are the most common allergens listed on the menu (gluten, dairy, soy)? Is the staff trained to understand allergy concerns? Are they aware of the allergens in different menu items? Do they have gluten free choices? Is the kitchen willing and able to make substitutions to accommodate a customer’s allergy or health concerns?

Popover Bistro & Bakery in Simsbury just celebrated their fifth anniversary and they are going strong. Recently, I sat down with Sara Allan, one of the owners, to discuss “the questions.”

The goal of the restaurant from the beginning was to be locally sourced, organic and non-GMO. They are able to source their produce VERY locally during the growing season and overall 12

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

they achieve sourcing produce organically 98% of the time. You can see their local partners and farms up on the chalkboard. I am happy to know that I can always get an organic salad at Popover.

Extra virgin olive oil is used to make the salad dressings and is always available, as is organic butter. They do use a blended oil (EVOO and canola) for roasting, baking and frying, so be advised if you wish to avoid canola.

As far as animal protein goes, they have organic cheddar cheese (and a delicious vegan cheese), the eggs are local and cage-free, the chicken is antibiotic free, the turkey and chorizo sausage are nitrate free, and the house made corned beef is hormone and antibiotic free. The animal protein is better quality than most restaurants but not organic.

They do make everything in house and strive to use real ingredients as much as possible. Real pumpkin and spices are used to make their pumpkin spice latte and they have made their own lavender syrup for drinks in the past. Currently, their flavored coffee syrups contain artificial ingredients but those can be avoided by asking for other options. Their ketchup contains high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) due to a sourcing problem but they hope to get organic ketchup back in soon. I would just avoid ketchup in general.

The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable regarding ingredients and happy to assist with food allergy concerns and the kitchen is willing to make substitutions as desired. The menu offers many vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options and offers breakfast and lunch all day. They also keep it interesting by changing the menu seasonally but always have some customer favorites like the waffles. They are amazing and happen to be gluten free so if you want a treat, check them out the next time you are near Simsbury. Visit popoversimsbury.com Submitted by Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Kathy sees clients at Natural Health & Healing, in West Hartford. healthcoach@naturalhealthandhealing.net 860.677.4600. See ad on back cover.

again. More air flows into your chest and neck. Lastly, it’s best to have a couple of pillows under your knees to soften your lower back and flatten that lower back arch. That arch increases when your legs are flat, putting a lot of strain in your low back.

3. Sitting well.

By Sharon Sklar

S

tart your new year by changing some old habits that don’t really contribute to your well-being. Here are some quick tips to make a few easy changes that can give you more energy, an overall better feeling, ease of motion and less muscle ache.

1. Drink more water, eat more protein.

The latest health experts report that we should drink half our body weight in ounces of water a day as a minimum. A 150 lb person starts out with 75 oz of water and must adjust to accommodate physical activity and/ or caffeine consumption. Since caffeine is a diuretic, coffee, coca cola, green or black tea all work to deplete our systems of water. We must replace that lost fluid with more water.

The same “half your body weight” applies to eating grams of protein. Your body’s connective or soft tissue is collagen based and uses protein to rebuild and strengthen tissue. Legumes and grains, poultry, nuts, fish, meat, plant protein and dairy; pick and choose what is right for you. Having some protein at each meal and snacking on nuts, a power bar or starting your day with a protein and fruit smoothie will all add up to a healthier you. Go for about 20-25 grams (5-8 ounces) at each meal to give you sustained levels of energy throughout the day.

People report feeling less muscle ache, more energy, faster recovery from work-outs, better digestion and less foggy brain when they are well hydrated and eat enough protein.

2. Develop a balanced sleeping position.

Sleeping on your back, side, belly? Pillow, no pillow? The best position for sleeping is on your side with a good, thick pillow that supports your head and neck. This keeps your neck and head in line with your spine. If your pillow is too flat, your head drops and puts strain on your neck. If your pillow is too high or you use two pillows, again, that puts strain into your neck. Your leg closest to the bed should be bent to avoid falling forward. Your

The best position for sleeping is on your side with a good, thick pillow that supports your head and neck. This keeps your neck and head in line with your spine. top leg could be on top of that bottom leg or slightly bent with your calf resting on the bottom leg ankle. This keeps your hips “square” and keeps you from rolling on your stomach which is the worst position and should definitely be avoided. Many stomach sleepers have chronic neck pain, unstable hips and/or lower back issues.

If you prefer sleeping on your back, try a rolled-up hand towel placed at the base of your neck. This provides neck support without lifting your head. A pillow behind your head lifts your head up and tucks your chin into your chest which is not good for your breathing or your neck.

Try this test. Lie flat with your normal head position. Take a deep breath. See how far up into your chest your breath goes. Place a rolled hand towel under your neck which lifts your chin up and take the breathing test

Check Natural Nutmeg’s November 2019 for my in-depth article about sitting, but I’ve included the highlights here. Stick your butt out when you sit, reaching your sit-bones to the back of the chair seat. This assures the correct pelvic position. Bring your feet out in front of you, slightly more than a right angle from your knees. Shift your weight slightly forward of your sit-bones which has you rest on the fleshy part of your pelvic floor muscles instead of feeling the weight in your lower back. This slightly forward position shifts your weight into your feet. Notice how much lighter your lower back feels!

Stack your head and neck on top of the rest of your spine, not hanging forward. The natural curve of your lower back gives your chest lift which then allows your head to maintain the correct support. Your shoulders will be relaxed when your eyes are balanced at the horizon line. Lastly, by placing your hands palms up on your lap, you avoid the trap of supporting yourself with your arms which pushes your shoulders upward creating more tension.

Try these few suggestions for a happier, healthier you. Your body will thank you.

Sharon Sklar is in her 39th year of private practice as a Certified Advanced Rolfer. State licensed and the only Rolfer in Central CT, Sharon works with direct manipulation of the soft tissue of the body and movement re-education over a ten-session series to help her clients feel freer, get more balanced and reduce chronic pain. Call 860.561.4337 for more info or to schedule a consultation. www.

SharonSklarRolfing.com. See ad on page 22.

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6 Ways Clutter Is Affecting Your Health

By Regina Sanchez

A

re these statements something you have said in the past or are currently saying?

“This clutter doesn’t bother me. I’m ok with it.” “I’m doing this organizing project for my husband/wife.” “I’m able to find what I need.” “I know where everything is.”

These are statements I hear many times from new clients. Today I want to challenge you that if these are statements you are making, you might be in a sense of denial. How can I say that? Because as I begin the process of organizing with these clients and see how scattered their thinking is and the process in which they begin to tackle the project, there is no way they can firmly stand on the concept that the clutter around them is ok and working for them.

It is a hard thing to look at and a hard thing to come to terms with. So instead of dealing with it head on, they go into denial mode thinking this way of thinking will get them by. But the reality is, it will eventually catch up with them and cause much stress, unrest, confusion, aggravation and many times conflict within a relationship.

So what is the truth about clutter? Let me first preface that with there are many levels to clutter and what may feel like clutter to one may not to another. For me, if there were piles of papers on my kitchen counters, that would be clutter to me and cause me stress.

Some people may be ok with a few piles of paper on their counters.

What I’m talking about are the piles and piles of papers all over the kitchen that now the kitchen cannot be used effectively for what its purpose is: to cook and eat in.

What these piles of paper can do is, “compete for our attention” (Dr. Jeremy Wolf, ND). Every time you walk into the kitchen you are in a battle with your emotions. These piles call for your attention but you don’t have the desire or energy to tend to them. It leaves you feeling unproductive, shameful, confused, overwhelmed and defeated.

The piles win!

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Or what about the bedrooms that are full of piles of clothes that are spilling out of the closets. The closets are so full that there is no more room for clothes, so they end up on dresser tops to then spill onto the floor. This is the type of clutter that causes stress, which then turns into other health issues.

Some of the ways that clutter affects your day-to-day functions are: 1. Disrupting your productivity and focus 2. Causes you to crave unhealthy foods like sugar and refined carbs 3. Exasperates allergies and/or asthma 4. Depletes your energy 5. Disrupts your sleep 6. Causes high cortisol levels In 2009, Southern California and UCLA Psychology Professor Rena Preetti did a study on women living amongst clutter. They found that these women had high cortisol levels, whereas the men living in the same home did not.

What does living continually with high cortisol levels do to you?

• Suppresses your immunity • Causes hypertension • Raises your blood sugar (hyperglycemia) • Starts you on the path of insulin resistance • Creates carbohydrate cravings • Can create metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes • Helps to develop fat deposits on the face, neck, and belly • Can cause bone loss Those can be pretty significant health issues all for the sake of clutter. You have to ask yourself if it’s worth it. I’ve had individuals call me because they wanted me to call their spouse or their girlfriends to help convince them they needed to hire me to help with their clutter. Sadly, I have to say no. I cannot convince anyone they need to change. It has to be their decision. If they don’t own the decision, the organizational process will not be successful.

What is holding you back? Has clutter now become your friend but you just don’t realize it’s your enemy? Are you ready to look at your circumstance with new eyes? Do you want to change but just don’t know where to begin? I’d be honored to help you on the path to organization and wellness. In order to get to you have to walk through! I’m here to walk with you!

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Submitted by Regina Sanchez, Health, Wellness & Organizational Coach. Pick up the phone and call 860-874-8515 or email me at info@ReginaSanchez. com to have a “free” 30-minute phone consult. See ad on page 30.

New Year, New Financial Life

By Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

A

m I going to be okay? We all hear these words in our lives. Maybe your best friend asked you this question as she grieved the death of the partner that she loved. Perhaps your Mom said this to you as she worked through new and challenging health conditions as she aged. Or maybe you have wrestled with this fear in those few fleeting moments of alone time, when all you wanted to do was just breathe but your head raced about your life and your finances.

You are not alone. We all are dealing with uncertainty. If anything is certain in addition to death and taxes, it’s that life is continuously changing. We are dynamic.

As a result, our financial situations are continuously evolving. This doesn’t mean that any of us needs to experience anxiety, feel alone, and have unanswered questions around whether we are all right with our approach to our finances. You have choices and options. You can experience financial confidence as life inevitably changes.

You are not alone.

We all are dealing with uncertainty. If anything is certain in addition to death and taxes, it’s that life is continuously changing.

She stayed with her job because it offered stability and flexibility to be both family caregiver and professional while her husband, their family’s breadwinner, regularly traveled for work. Then life happened.

Shortly after her third child was in college, right around when Mary was starting to think more seriously about what she wanted to do next with her career, Mary’s world started falling apart.

Her husband told her that he wanted a

divorce. Mary knew that they both had focused on the kids for the last 20+ years and when they weren’t caring for the children, they were balancing their own aging parents’ needs and respective work demands. What Mary hadn’t realized was just how far apart she and her husband had drifted until her husband insisted that the divorce was necessary.

After a very difficult divorce, Mary decided that she needed to talk to an independent professional about her finances. Mary was plagued with so many money management-related questions in parallel, she wasn’t sure which ones to answer first. Mary couldn’t sleep peacefully at night with the uncertainty of how best to manage the investments that had been transferred to her following the divorce; for years, she and her husband shared the same financial advisor and Mary never really connected with the advisor or felt that he understood her.

I’ll never forget the first time that a client asked me, “Am I going to be okay?”.

Mary was in her 60s and going through many life changes. When I asked Mary why she wanted to work with me she said simply, “I need to know that I’m going to be okay.’”

Mary was a proud mother and soon to be grandmother. For as long as she could remember, her goal had been to help her three kids enjoy a quality of life as they grew up, get them safely off to college, and then live life on her terms. Mary had worked for years at the same company, often in roles that did not interest her.

Integrative nutrition health coach Chinese medicine practitioner Licensed acupuncturist 203/698-0793 - 203/253-9885 c. health@donnabunte.com www.donnabunte.com

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Together Mary and I talked about what was important to her. We chatted about the mother she aspired to be for her grown children and the type of grandmother she wanted to become in the years ahead. We reviewed what her expenses looked like as a newly independent woman, and both what her current income entailed with her existing job and how her income might change if she did indeed make the career switch that she had been contemplating for years. We reviewed the savings and investment strategies that Mary had followed for years as well as the money that transferred to her as a result of the divorce. We talked extensively about Mary’s desire to make strategic financial decisions and not be a financial burden to her family as she aged if her health deteriorated. We discussed downsizing, relocating, and I gave her information and advice on both what long-term care insurance was and whether it made sense for her, given her specific financial situation.

After developing a financial plan and new investment strategy for Mary, I asked if she had any questions. With tears in her eyes, Mary shook her head “No." As the tears began streaming down her cheeks, Mary reached out, touched my arm, and whispered, “Thank you, Caroline. You really listened to me. I am so hopeful.”

You, too, can be hopeful. You, too, can obtain peace of mind. If you’re ready to answer the question, “Am I going to be okay?” financially, I am here for you.

Resolve to make 2020 your year to obtain focus and clarity on your finances.

Caroline Wetzel is one of Natural Nutmeg’s 2019 and 2018 10Best Winners for Business/Life Coach. Caroline is a Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®) and Vice President, Private Wealth Advisor with Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC. Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC and Procyon Institutional Partners, LLC (collectively “Procyon Partners”) are registered investment advisors with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). This article is provided for informational purposes only and for the intended recipient[s] only. This article may also include opinions and forwardlooking statements which may not come to pass. Information is at a point in time and subject to change. Procyon Partners does not provide tax or legal advice.

See ad on page 24.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

5 High Performance Anti-Aging Oils You Need This Winter

By Richard Fanelli

T

here are many great uses for essential oils, including helping to combat aging of the skin as well as keeping your skin super hydrated and nourished in the cold, dry winter months. This is a benefit that most people are looking for these days and essential oils and extracts are a natural yet highly effective way to age slower, look younger and stay hydrated on a consistent basis.

The 5 Best Anti-Aging Oils These are some of the leading oils for forehead wrinkles, eye wrinkles, mouth wrinkles and all of those other signs of aging that you may be trying to reduce or avoid.

1. Jojoba Oil You may not have heard of jojoba oil before, but it is probably one of the most hydrating carrier oils for essential oils in the entire world and it does so in a surprisingly non-oily fashion. Jojoba oil contains many beneficial ingredients, including vitamin E, vitamin B complex, silicon, chromium, copper and zinc. Is jojoba the best oil to reduce wrinkles? It definitely makes this list for good reason.

Jojoba oil is known to have anti-inflammatory effects that make it an ideal choice for discouraging skin aging (think wrinkles and fine lines). It’s also excellent for skin infections and wound healing.

Our sebaceous glands are microscopic glands in our skin that secrete an oily or waxy matter called sebum. As we age our sebaceous glands produce less sebum, which is why we often see an increase of dry skin the older we get. The texture of human sebum is very similar to jojoba oil, which is why it can be so incredibly effective at improving dryness as well as overall skin health and appearance.

A main jojoba oil benefit is that it can play the role of sebum and moisturize our skin and hair when our body stops doing it naturally. On the other hand, too much sebum, which happens when hormone levels are high, can result in oily skin and acne.

Jojoba oil is great at removing sticky buildup or excess oil, too; keeping your oil levels balanced. That makes it a helpful natural treatment for eczema as well as a home remedy for acne, plus it’s well suited for other dry-skin conditions and can help soothe sunburns too.

As an emollient, jojoba oil moisturizes our skin and prevents irritations like scaly and rough patches. Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Jojoba oil works by forming a protective oily layer on the top of the skin that can help keep in moisture. It works on your face, neck, hands, feet and hair; you can use it anywhere on your body because it’s completely

natural and as long as you buy pure jojoba oil, it contains no questionable chemicals or additives that can irritate skin.

Jojoba oil is noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores.

Jojoba oil is also rich in iodine, which helps to fight harmful bacteria growth that can lead to breakouts. The antioxidants present in jojoba oil help to discourage fine lines and naturally slow down other signs of aging. Jojoba oil can also accelerate the woundhealing process, as indicated in a study done at the Department of Environment and Life Sciences in Italy. The results proved that jojoba oil speeds up wound closures and stimulates collagen synthesis; the study also noted that jojoba oil had extremely low toxic effects when used on the skin.

A 2012 study conducted in Germany examined the ability of jojoba oil to reduce skin lesions and improve overall skin condition for 194 participants, who applied clay masks with jojoba oil to their faces two to three times per week. Fifty-four percent of the participants reported that acne skin lesions were reduced significantly after six weeks of using jojoba oil. So jojoba oil can definitely help with breakouts too. Immortal Opulence uses only 100% certified organic Jojoba oil.

2. Hibiscus Extract One of the most powerful anti-aging plant actives; it’s no wonder hibiscus is called the ‘Botox' plant. Hibiscus has a magical reputation for increasing skin elasticity to give a stunning natural youth-boost. With the incredible ability to inhibit the activity of the enzyme elastase, which is responsible for breaking down our skin’s precious elastin, hibiscus actively combats the ageing process by firming and lifting your skin.

One of the visible signs of skin aging is the appearance of hyper-pigmentation or age spots. Age spots can occur due to a number of different variables, including ultraviolet radiation exposure, excess melanin production and genetics. Due to the slightly exfoliating effect of the organic acids found in the plant, including citric acid and malic acid, hibiscus helps to speed up cell turnover, resulting in a more even looking skin tone.

Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, called anthocyanosides. Antioxidants are proven to help fight skin damaging free radicals which spawn when pollutants such as ultraviolet radiation and traffic pollution make contact with the skin, and can result in premature skin aging. Not only do anthocyanosides protect against free radical damage, they have slightly astringent properties, helping to reduce the appearance of large pores for a smoother complexion. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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3. Frankincense Oil What is frankincense oil good for? For starters, it’s often used to reduce the appearance of sunspots and age spots. If you have uneven color on your skin, some whiteness in some areas, any spottiness or splotchiness, frankincense oil is the number one ingredient that can help even out skin tone and help get rid of sunspots and age spots.

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Frankincense essential oil is a powerful astringent that can be used to help reduce acne blemishes; the appearance of large pores and wrinkles. Frankincense is one of the best essential oils for skin tightening. The oil can be used anywhere where the skin becomes saggy, such as the abdomen, jowls or under the eyes. It’s one of my favorite essential oils for wrinkles around the eyes.

Frankincense has the ability to strengthen skin and improve its tone, elasticity, defense mechanisms against bacteria or blemishes, and appearance as someone ages. Studies have shown that it has antiinflammatory properties and can help to get rid of stretch marks and scars.

4. Kalahari Melon Seed Oil This pure, wild harvested African melon nourishes your skin with Superoxide

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Dismutase (SOD), Vitamins A, B, C, E, minerals, lycopene and citruilline. Citrulline improves blood flow to the skin, helping flush toxins and providing a healthy glow.

Plus, it pushes back against fat from accumulating under the skin. Superoxide Dismutase protects the skin like no other antioxidant can. It’s the only antioxidant that binds itself directly to collagen preventing what’s known as collagen oxidation. Collagen oxidation causes your collagen to weaken and break, which causes wrinkles and sagging skin, because Superoxide Dismutase binds directly to collagen. It helps prevent this oxidation from occurring.

5. Rosehip Oil This is definitely one of the best oils for wrinkles and age spots. Made from the seeds of rose hips, rosehip oil is an incredibly concentrated form of anti-aging goodness. Why is this rose-derived oil so excellent for skin health? It’s packed with so many of the nutrients known to boost skin health and have anti-aging effects.

Rosehip oil, also called rosehip seed oil, is a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) including oleic, palmitic, linoleic and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). These EFAs are great at fighting dryness and reducing the appearance of fines lines.

Rose hips are also one of the richest plant sources of vitamin C. This is a huge plus for anti-aging efforts since vitamin C aids collagen production, which unfortunately but naturally slows down as we age. Adding products with vitamin C, like rosehip oil, to your beauty routine can directly help to boost collagen and fend off signs of aging.

We at Immortal Opulence never add just trace amounts of these precious oils. We spare no expense in combining 27 other powerful oils, botanicals and compounds to create a high performance anti-aging skin cream which will give you transformational results.

To see a complete list of our ingredients, visit www.immortalopulence.com.

Get a Free bottle of our bio-active Immortal-C Skin Serum with every purchase.

Normally sells for $70 dollars. Immortal Opulence makes a great gift for that special someone…including you.

Richard Fanelli is an obsessive researcher in holistic health and the Founder and Formulator of Immortal Opulence Skin Cream. Immortal Opulence is hand-crafted at the Red Barn Holistic Arts Center in Durham, CT. See ad on page 24 & 32.

Make Stress Your Goal This Year

By Paige Dest

M

ost people want to alleviate stress in their life; so much so, that they stress over it, but there’s actually a good reason to embrace stress. Stress can make us think and behave in various ways, but you can control stress by the thoughts you allow yourself to think, and by the way you allow your body to respond.

We often increase our own stress by losing sense of our personal power. We don’t set appropriate boundaries and then we become frustrated by the way people treat us. We say “yes” when we want to say “no”, and then we resent it later. We aren’t forthright in our word and may end up regretting it. We allow our thoughts to exaggerate our fears and we allow our fears to exaggerate our thoughts. When does it end? If you choose, it can end right now.

You can make stress work for you, rather than against you. It’s all a matter of understanding your emotions, what drives them, and knowing you have power over them. You have power over your thoughts; it’s a matter of perspective and making better choices. Once you have better control of your body’s response and of your thoughts, stress will feel different. You can understand it as a way of keeping you motivated and aware, rather than frantic and disoriented.

Here are six ways to change how you respond to stress: 1. Look at the complete facts in the situation. Set realistic goals based on what you know to be true and what you know you can achieve, even if you

have to stretch yourself a bit. This will help you grow into who or what you can be, while maintaining a healthy level of stress. It will keep you motivated to move forward. By achieving little steps along the way and being realistic about what can be done, you will have successes to break the stress.

2. Put the situation in perspective. How will this look in 3 months? 6 months?

1 year? Think about the situation and ask yourself a few questions: What is the worst thing that can happen? How probable is this? What is one thing I can do to stop the worst from happening?

What is the best thing that could happen? How would this feel?

3. Take things one step at a time, practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the state of being in the present moment. This can be difficult as our brains are made to constantly search for dangers in our path. You have the capacity and power

to bring your thoughts and focus back to the present. Breathing and body scan meditation exercises can help bring your attention and awareness to your present self, in the present moment. Even if your mind wanders, accept it as normal for your brain, then bring your focus back to your breathing or how your body is feeling in the specific moment.

4. Avoid “should” statements. Once you think or say “should”, your brain begins to emote guilt for not having completed what it “should." Instead, think of what “could” be done or what “can” be done.

You have the power to choose what action to take or what thought to believe – there is no “should” in life except what we pretend there to be.

5. Acknowledge that time is ever evolving – it will pass. Often, we put unhealthy time restrictions on ourselves or on events. Remember that everything has its time and place. If

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it’s not your time, perhaps it’s someone else’s. Be graceful and humble, your time will come when it’s right. Be ready for that moment. Plan ahead and schedule your time accordingly. Make sure you are prepared for the moments in your life, which at times may mean allowing the moment to unfold.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

6. Every once in a while, just step back and look around you. Allow yourself to be in awe of the miracles of nature. Be grateful to be in this time and place, you are a gift to the world, and the world is a gift to you. Realize the vastness of it and recognize what is important to you – what will last and what will give you back tenfold what you put in. Not necessarily monetary value, but what will give you memories that make you smile, warm your heart, and which you will hold on to.

Once you change the way you think about stress, you’ll see a change in the way you respond to stress – in your mindset, in your response to certain emotions, and in the way you make decisions. You’ll feel a freedom like never before. You’ll want to make sure to continue this trend by making stress your goal!

Paige Dest is a certified Emotional Intelligence Coach and Core Values Index Practitioner. As the owner and President of BYODestiny, she provides emotional intelligence coaching to individuals and presents retreats, workshops, and national webinars on emotional intelligence and related topics. Paige is also the founder and President of The Flutter Foundation, Inc., a non-profit that supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs in Connecticut schools, and she has most recently been named the Global Mentor Coordinator for 6seconds’ POP-UP Festivals, celebrating World Children’s Day annually in November. She may be reached by emailing her at paige@BYODestiny. com or by calling 860.550.1844.

Exploring Infertility with Shamanic or Hypnotic Regressive Techniques

By Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200

I

n my professional practice and personal relationships, I’ve witnessed the heartbreak that women, men and couples endure due to infertility. Sometimes there is a medical explanation for the inability to conceive or to carry and birth a healthy baby; sometimes there is none.

Women are the child-bearers, but men can also carry emotions which may impair conception. In some cases, the individual or couple is told that they should be able to conceive without issue. When conception seems elusive or medical intervention produces no results, I am asked to present unconventional options.

In some cases, hypnotic regression is chosen to uncover possible issues which lie hidden at the subconscious level. For instance, a previous abortion causing feelings of fear, guilt, regret or shame by the woman or by the man who suggested or supported the decision, can be released through hypnosis. Then, healthy attitudes about conceiving and bearing children can be restored. When there is a history of traumatic events such as rape, incest or abuse, partnership with a mental health professional is required. When the cause is unknown, professional guidelines help determine for whom age regression or past life regression therapy is appropriate.

With healthy women of child-bearing age, hypnotic regression may be used to uncover past experiences which have manifested emotionally as some destructive emotion. In one memorable case, a

In some cases, hypnotic regression is chosen to uncover possible issues for infertility which lie hidden at the subconscious level. woman under hypnosis, recalled a previous lifetime in which she had badly mistreated her children. This experience had been translated, at the subconscious level, into feelings of shame and the belief that she didn’t deserve to become a mother again.

After guided navigation through this past life, she was able to understand that she was indeed a loving person who would be a loving mother. She embraced the opportunity, conceived, birthed and raised two wonderful boys.

Another woman had struggled through a number of miscarriages. Under hypnosis, she recalled being a young, unmarried victim of rape by an enemy soldier during a long-ago war. Stored in her subconscious was the belief that having a child would result in extreme shame, for in that previous lifetime she would surely be ostracized by her village if she had become pregnant. In the deeply receptive state of hypnosis, she was able to believe that she was no longer a victim but rather a woman who had the ability and birthright to manifest the life she desired. She is now raising a sweet, healthy daughter.

I also worked with a man who had repressed past-life memories of having raped women and brutalized children.

Under hypnosis, he was able to believe that he deserved the chance to become the loving father he knew he was capable of being. Under hypnosis, he was invited to understand that his behavior in a long-ago time and far-away place does not discolor his path for all time. He now enjoys family life with a loving wife and adorable son.

If the client seems more aligned with shamanic practices than hypnotherapy, I will gather information through my own shamanic journeying. Based on the information presented, I might choose to perform a soul retrieval. A soul retrieval is an ancient practice of locating and retrieving soul parts which have been lost due to trauma of any kind, from any time. Restoring the soul to wholeness often results in overall improved physical, emotional and spiritual health, which can positively impact fertility. During one soul retrieval, I discovered that a male client had been deeply affected at an early age, in this lifetime, by the unexpected death of his father. He perceived that his new responsibility was to protect his mother and devote his attention only to her.

Fathering children might be felt as betrayal of his perceived responsibility. After his lost soul parts were restored, he described feeling “whole again” and is now eagerly awaiting the birth of his first child with his loving partner.

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Other shamanic energy healing techniques are chosen for those men or women whose evaluations indicate blockages or weakened areas in their energy fields.

These areas are restored to vitality with hands-on or remote energy work using drums, rattles, other sacred instruments, stones, crystals, ceremonies and various cross-cultural shamanic tools.

I’ve attempted to present a broad view of approaches and results. I ask the reader to reflect upon this information with an open mind. No modality produces “magic wand” results. I merely invite you to believe in possibility.

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Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200 is a Spiritual Counselor, Certified Shamanic and Shapeshifting Practitioner, Certified Hypnotherapist, Mentor, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Artist. She hosts and produces the "The Sacred Journey" TV show and officiates nature-based weddings and ceremonies as a CT Justice of the Peace. Owner and director of "The Sacred Journey Center for Spiritual Studies" in Burlington, Joyce offers private sessions, workshops, and study groups for adults and children. She can be reached at (860) 675-9706, jsgermaine@aol.com, or www.thesacredjourney.biz Ask about upcoming Shamanism & Yoga Jungle Retreats to Belize or Costa Rica or Intuitive Development and Past Life Regression Cruises. See ad on page 41.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Are You Buying Health Care…

Or Disease Care?

By Ann Aresco, ND

T

here is no doubt health care in this country has to change.

The very first thing to change is the definition of health care. Health care is not insurance, pharmaceuticals, or surgery. These are disease care. Health care is eating good organic whole foods, getting good sleep and getting regular exercise.

So, the question is: What do you want to pay for? Health care to prevent disease? Or disease care?

The Cost of Buying Non-Organic Organic produce is not exponentially more expensive than regular produce. Producers of non-organic produce would like the public to think that. But much like every aspect of health care, we need to change the way we think about our food expenses. First, consider what you are buying…food for your families’ health. Does a little bit of toxic material matter? Are you eating it every day? Every meal?

Then add all those exposures together and determine what exactly is a “little bit.”

Calculating what is spent on food also requires a shift in thought.

If organic produce is a dollar more per pound than non-organic that sounds like a lot. Are you buying a whole pound of that produce? Are you buying smaller quantities so it’s really only a few cents more than “conventionally” grown to avoid buying the toxins that come with it. Further, why should food be cheap? It is directly related to your health. Thinking about it that way, you are investing in your health care with dollars spent on good food.

If you are buying inexpensive, processed or fast food, what is your body getting in nutrients in return on those investments? If you are eating fake food, the lack of nutrients will leave you craving more food as your body is well aware that it has not consumed nutrients needed to function properly. More fake food consumed…more cost to buy it. If Americans consumed the 40% of produce that is thrown out every day instead of eating fake food, how would that affect our health care and therefore disease care industry?

Most grocery stores are now carrying organic. Some are even advertising that organic is cheaper than the stores that brought organic food into the public’s view. You still have to consider what you are buying. There are many grades or quality of produce that stores buy and sell. All produce is not the same and your choices are many.

The Cost of Inadequate Sleep Not getting good sleep will ruin your health eventually. The human body requires rest and recovery every night. Patients often suffer from a number of problematic symptoms not realizing that they are

not getting enough rest to allow their body to function normally the next day. Eventually a number of symptoms plague a patient that gets little or poor sleep. Statistically, shift workers have much higher disease risk than regular day workers. It is due to the irregular sleep patterns these workers live with.

The triggers to poor rest and recovery are many and finding the right balance, or the right mattress, is crucial to preventing disease.

Whatever the cost of correcting this, patients who suffer from sleep deprivation will tell you how good and healthy they feel once they determine how to correct a sleep disorder. They have no problem spending the money to buy this kind of health care.

The Cost of Being Sedentary Regular exercise seems to be the most difficult investment in health care for most patients. Yet this is the most important piece. It requires an investment of at the very least, TIME. Try as we do to get everything important in our lives done each day, there is still more to do at the end of every day. This will never change. If it is work that uses up your every minute, remember that no one ever put on their gravestone, “I wish I worked more.”

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Being sedentary does not bode well for the human body. The messages sent to every cell functioning in the body is: no need to burn calories, no need to make muscle tissue or bone mass, no need to produce more hormones, no need to use cholesterol, and on and on. The functions in the human body will take the path of least resistance. If it isn’t directed to do more to keep us healthy, it won’t. That leads to dis-ease when functions begin to fail us. Once this process begins it becomes more and more difficult to bring us back to health. Then the investment in disease care really begins to be costly for medicines and surgery and medical visits and hospital care. All this to try and recover what would still be yours if you had scheduled a little time every day to exercise and tell your body, “I’m going to need more energy, burn more calories, make more of everything I need to stay healthy, so I can be active and feel good every minute of the rest of this day.”

Changing how you think of “health care” will help you change your health. Are you investing in your health care, or waiting to pay for disease care?

Dr. Ann Aresco is a licensed physician at ProNatural Physicians Group in Berlin and is accepting new patients.

Call for an appointment at 860-829-0707. To learn more about naturopathic medicine visit ProNaturalPhysicians.com or look for ProNatural Physicians on Face Book. ProNatural Physicians Group NDs and APRNs are providers for most major insurance carriers. www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

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Do You Need a ?

By Katy Firisin, ND

I

t’s that time of year again! We have overindulged, perhaps put on a few pounds, and made resolutions to be healthy. A time of year where gyms are enticing you with 8-week challenges, and every clinic (mine included) or online forum is offering some sort of cleanse or detox. Is there any validity to this idea of detoxification and is it right for you?

Are You Toxic?

The reality is that we are all carrying some toxic burden in our bodies. It is impossible to exist in our modern world without being exposed to toxicants. From birth the chips are stacked against us; over 200 chemicals have been found in umbilical cord blood. In the past 100 years, over 75,000 NEW chemicals have been introduced to our environment.

Many chronic diseases can be attributed to the inflammation that comes from exposure to toxins. Common symptoms that may be associated with toxic burden include brain fog, gastrointestinal complaints such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, reflux, headaches, hormone imbalances, low libido, skin concerns, weight gain, bloating, chronic pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, dark circles under your eyes, menstrual irregularities, sleep disturbances, asthma, frequent colds and flus, fibromyalgia, sensitivity to chemicals, and the list goes on!

Where Do Toxicants** Come From? (**A quick point of clarification; a toxicant is a chemical introduced into the environment, a toxin is actually a poison or venom that is created by a plant or animal.)

Chemical substances are ubiquitous in the environment. If you breath air, drink water, eat food, take a shower, and clean

your home you are exposed to toxicants. In addition to external sources of toxicants, our bodies create our own toxins. We produce metabolic biproducts via different metabolic processes in the body such as ammonia and carbon dioxide. We create inflammatory chemicals internally when we are exposed to toxins and foods that we do not properly digest. An often overlooked source of toxicity is stress. Storing negative emotions is detrimental to our health. It results in inflammatory chemical responses within the body that can result in a diseased state over the long term.

How Does the Body Detox?

The body is actively mitigating our environmental exposure on a daily basis.

Detoxification is primarily carried out by our liver and kidneys. We eliminate toxicants through skin, sweat, urine, bowel movements, breathing and our lymphatic system. The kidneys are responsible for eliminating water soluble substances while our liver tackles the fat-soluble toxins. You can imagine why drinking copious amounts of water is critical to this process!

So Now What?

Come January 1st, we are bombarded with promotions and offers. Any program that promises weight loss, includes the word “miracle” or involves processed packaged foods is not likely a sound program.

A detox program should help the body's natural cleansing process. It should rest the organs through fasting or decreasing calorie consumption for a period of time.

It should stimulate the liver to drive toxins from the body while promoting elimination through the intestines, kidneys and skin. It should refuel the body with healthy nutrients and should culminate with rebuilding and transition the participant to a healthy long term lifestyle.

A quality detox or cleanse must contain nutrients/provide dietary guidelines by explaining what foods to avoid and what foods are acceptable to eat. You must decrease the burden on the liver. No alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, chemicals, sugars, animal protein (1st phase). Decrease stress and decrease exposure where possible. Medical supervision is recommended to check for kidney and liver function and must account for adjustments in medications if taking any. Eliminate toxic chemical exposure by switching to natural products where possible. Change cosmetic and beauty products as well as household products.

Make sure you eat! Do not starve, juice fast or water fast without supervision.

There are many quality programs available.

Understand that simply changing your food or intake is not enough to truly cleanse. You must adjust your exposure, your stress level and make sure your elimination is on point.

If you have chronic constipation, diarrhea or do not have daily bowel movements, correcting this prior to a detoxification program will ensure success. Working with a naturopathic doctor who can help you select a program based upon individual needs, performing labs prior to your program to ensure proper kidney and liver function, and determine the ideal length of a cleanse (typically 7 days up to 30) can help take the guess work out of the process. Be a critical consumer and don’t just jump on the bandwagon as it passes by this New Year. The most important thing about any detoxification or cleanse is what you do AFTER! Don’t stop after 14 days! Use a cleanse to jumpstart you on the road to optimal health.

Dr. Katy Firisin offers individualized Detoxification programs of varying length and incorporates individual health needs in each plan. She is a naturopathic doctor and medical director at Coastal Natural Medicine in Southport, Connecticut. Call 475-999-2032 to set up a complementary 15-minute consult or book your appointment today. Some insurances accepted. See ad on page 42.

Please visit naturalnutmeg.com for a more indepth version of this article discussing detox pathways in the body.

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Could Your Lifestyle Be Causing Infertility?

By Nicole Kerr, ND, LAc

I

n the age of instant gratification, infertility can feel like a diagnosis that will never be overcome for many couples wanting to be pregnant NOW. More than five million people of childbearing age in the United States, or one in every ten couples, have problems with infertility.

Infertility is defined clinically as not being able to achieve and maintain pregnancy after one year of having regular, well timed, unprotected intercourse, or after six months if the woman is older than 35 years old.

According to the NIH, 9% of men and 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States have experienced fertility problems. Studies suggest that 12%-15% of couples are unable to conceive after one year of unprotected sex, and 10% still have not had a live-born baby after two years. Female and male factors account for 40% of infertility each, and 20% of infertile couples have both female and male contributing factors. In ten percent of infertility cases, there is no identifiable cause for a pregnancy to not occur.

The Age Factor: End All Be All? Couples trying to conceive before the age of 30 are between 40%-60% able to become pregnant within the first three months of trying. When women reach 30 years old, they are about half as fertile as their 20-year-old counterparts. This strongly suggests age is a major factor concerning fecundity, the ability of a couple to become pregnant in any given cycle. Women and men both see a decline in their fertility after the age of 35. Male fertility decline is more gradual though. Due to the finite number of eggs a woman is born with, about 1 million to 2 million, female fertility has an end point that will be reached, while men can continue to make sperm throughout

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

their life. When menarche is reached, the onset of menstruation at puberty and the beginning of a woman’s fertile period of life, only 25% (about 200,000-400,000) of a woman’s eggs remains. The average woman will be down to only about twentyfive thousand remaining eggs at the age of 37. Woman only cycle an average of 451 times in a lifetime and while thousands of eggs degrade each month, only one usually matures to be released during ovulation.

A decline in the number and quality of female eggs can lengthen the time it takes to become pregnant in older women.

This often results in an infertility diagnosis after six months for a woman 35 years or older. Considering fecundity decreases as we age, a longer time to conceive naturally is expected as we age. Male sperm quality and quantity also decline as men age, making it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. Aside from the natural decline of fertility as we age, there are other factors that increase in occurrence with increasing age and contribute to a further loss of fertility; uterine fibroids, tubal disease, endometriosis, genetic abnormalities, erectile dysfunction, decrease in testicle volume, and enlarged prostate.

Can you become pregnant in advanced reproductive age? Yes, but it can take much longer than if pregnancy is attempted earlier in life. Does this make the term “geriatric pregnancy” any less offensive? NO!! Let’s take a moment and appreciate the wonderful things our bodies can do as we age without labeling it with terms that make us cringe and think less about ourselves.

Understanding it may take more rigorous approaches, effort, and time to conceive in our late 30s or beyond can ease the stress often felt by this age group.

Causes of Infertility Non-age related causes of infertility are many and can be multi-factorial. Both the female and male partner’s reproductive and overall health needs to be addressed when identifying the reason a couple is falling short on becoming pregnant.

Female Factors: Failure to ovulate, menstrual cycle problems, structural problems of reproductive system, infection, failure of an egg to mature properly, implantation failure, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), primary ovary insufficiency (POI), uterine fibroids, and autoimmunity.

Male Factors: Chromosome defects/ disorders, diabetes, hyperprolactinemia, testicle injury, androgen insensitivity, infection, thyroid problems, undescended testicles, varicocele, blockage of transport tubes, vasectomy, erectile dysfunction, and retrograde ejaculation.

Lifestyle Factors: Nutrition, weight, exercise, sleep, physical and mental stressors, environmental and occupational exposures, substance abuse, and medication.

Other Factors: Obesity: lower sperm count, increase risk of PCOS Underweight: ovarian dysfunction, absence of ovulation Excessive exercise: reduced sperm count, anovulatory cycles (not ovulating) Tobacco/Alcohol/Marijuana/ Illegal drugs: reduces male sperm production and embryo implantation Stress: increases glucocorticoids that directly decrease testosterone in testes and brain of men, and inhibit gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) in women

Exposure to organic pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like PCBs and TCCD dioxin affect fecundity: According to the NIH, “EDCs alter the function of the hormonal system, a key component in fertility. The LIFE study found that the EDC methyl paraben affects fertility in women, while phthalates and the UV filter benzophenone-2 affects fertility in men.”

Infertility Evaluation With six months to a year already behind most couples before seeking evaluation for fertility, it is vital to assess both partners. Female and male evaluation is crucial before identifying the most effective treatments. There is nothing more crushing for a couple to spend months and months treating a “probable” female cause, when a semen analysis on the male partner has never been done. Remember, 40% of infertility is a male partner issue, with another 20% male and female combined issue.

Therefore 60% of the time the male partner may need treatment.

Female evaluation will include a detailed history of health, cervical health history (abnormal Paps, LEEP procedures, cone biopsy), and mental/emotional assessment.

Included in the initial screening will be a physical exam and blood tests. Functional testing such as the DUTCH test can offer insight into many causes of infertility with a few samples of dried urine. The gold standard in functional fertility testing, it looks at multiple facets contributing to infertility, such as sex hormones, stress hormones and toxic burden markers. Additional testing may be ordered if baseline testing indicates a deeper investigation is needed.

Male evaluation will include a similar detailed history of health, testicular health/injury, occupational exposure, and mental/emotional assessment, along with a physical exam and blood tests. A semen analysis is critical to avoid lengthy and often unnecessary testing and treatment of the female partner.

The “test de jour” for infertility is antimullerian hormone (AMH). A lower AMH level indicates decreased ovarian reserve.

Recent studies show AMH may be less accurate though with Vitamin D deficiency.

The CDC reported in 2011 that 50% of women ages 19-50 were insufficient in Vitamin D, and 23% were deficient. Antral follicle count is another test to detect ovarian reserve using trans-vaginal ultrasound to determine the number of follicles in each ovary. Studies show that decreased ovarian reserve is associated with fewer eggs available, but does not change the ability to get pregnant. However, it may be more difficult to conceive. This point is very important to make when considering the fear many woman experience when told AMH and AFC numbers are low.

Sound obvious? According to an Albert Einstein College of Medicine 2019 study, only 20% of women knew they were fertile 3-6 days out of a month’s cycle, and 16% of woman in the study believed they were most fertile during their menses. Timing is essential because an egg is only fertile for 12-24 hours after being released from the ovary. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, so the fertile window is considered 5 days before and one day after ovulation.

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Fertility and Sterility found women who checked their cervical fluid consistently were 2.3 times more likely to get pregnant over a six-month period. BBT charts help maximize conception, predict ovulation (or lack thereof), and rule out various endocrine-related issues.

Quick tip: Avoid lubricants during intercourse due to their ability to impede the movement of sperm. Use Pre-Seed brand as a sperm friendly lubricant. Better yet see a practitioner to improve your cervical fluid. Cervical fluid quality can indicate hormonal imbalances.

2. Lifestyle Factors Lifestyle factors should always be addressed by your practitioner BEFORE more advanced interventions. A Lancet study showed men who ate organic had 43% more sperm. Another study concerning stress and infertility showed women with a support group have higher conception rates (54%) than those without a support group (20%). Lifestyle factors are often not considered as important as hormonal, ovulatory, or sperm abnormalities, but lifestyle is often the cause of those abnormalities.

3. Nutritional Therapies Folate 400-800 mcg/day is essential for proper cell growth, metabolism, and neural tube development. Methylfolate and folinic acid are other natural occurring forms of folate that may be better depending on your genetics and how you process folate in the body.

CoQ10 50-300 mg/day has antioxidant and mitochondrial energy production effects, and significant improvements in sperm motility, concentration and morphology.

NAC 1200mg/day in divided doses helps improve egg quality, cervical fluid, prevent miscarriages, and acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

Inositol 4g per day improves insulin sensitivity, egg quality and ovulatory function, decreases serum androgens, and increases sperm concentration.

Zinc 20-30 mg/day supports fertility by regulating normal hormone function, cell division, ovulation, and sperm production. An estimated 25% of Americans are deficient in zinc. High zinc foods include oysters, beef, egg yolks, oats, Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, carrots, beets, and cabbage.

Vitamin B6 30-50 mg/day helps to normalize many symptoms associated with a woman’s cycle. Vitamin B6 is involved in estrogen metabolism and can easily become depleted if estrogen dominance is a problem. Vitamin B6 possesses “progesterone-like effects” and has been shown to reduce estrogen while increasing progesterone levels.

Vitamin C 1,000-3,000 mg or higher raises progesterone, improves sperm morphology, and acts as an antioxidant to remove oxidative stressors.

Vitamin D 1,000-5,000 IU/day is able to control the genes involved in making estrogen. Vitamin D controls several genes involved in embryo implantation. Poor Vitamin D status has been associated with certain pregnancy complications such as gestational hypertension and diabetes.

Melatonin 3mg/day at bedtime increases number of mature eggs, and has anti-oxidant functions.

DHEA 25mg three times/day increases ovarian function and reserves and AMH levels, and lowers miscarriage rate. High rate of negative side effects are often experienced at this dose.

Acetyl L-Carnitine 1-3g/day improves sperm motility and morphology.

4. Botanical Medicine Botanical Medicine is very effective in helping improve hormone levels, regulate menstrual cycles, ovulatory disorders, and implantation issues.

Vitex agnus-castus 1mL tincture in the morning can increase progesterone and restore ovulation.

Asparagus racemosa 2-4 mL tincture two to three times/day improves cervical fluid, libido and low sperm count.

Tribulus terrestris 200-400mg standardized extract supports sperm health and count, and ovulation induction and can increase DHEA levels.

Withania somnifera 1-4 mL tincture three times/day increases sperm motility and count, decreases stress factor hormones, and regulates menstrual cycle.

5. Body Therapies Abdominal Mayan Massage improves circulation to reproductive organs, reduces scar tissue, and realigns tipped positioned uterus.

Acupuncture has been shown to improve numerous parameters involving fertility status.

Castor Oil Packs can improve infertility caused by fallopian tube dysfunctions, pelvic floor congestion, poor circulation and toxin accumulation.

Infertility is becoming more prevalent across all age groups. Treatment options are many and should be individualized depending on the root cause of your fertility struggle. Find a trusted practitioner that gives you options concerning what therapies are best for you at your current state of fertility. There are treatments available that are non-invasive, not excessively costly, and can actually improve your overall health as well as your ability to conceive.

Dr. Nicole Kerr, ND, LAc recently opened an all-natural fertility clinic in Wallingford, Fertility Oasis. At Fertility Oasis, Dr. Kerr teaches her patients the importance of preconception care and about all treatment options available to couples struggling to conceive. Male and female infertility factors are addressed by Dr. Kerr to offer comprehensive fertility care for her patients. Fertility Oasis, 857 N Main St Ext Suite 1, Wallingford, 203.265.0459 www.fertilityoasis.com. See ad on page 20.

5 Steps for The Basics of Improving Fertility

By Jennifer C. Pierre, ND, MPH

O

ver the past 20 years, technological advances in fertility have been quite remarkable. Accordingly, it should come as no surprise that much of the attention rests on the fancy terminology and procedures that make up the modern fertility landscape. However, it is astounding how little attention is given to the basics of fertility. Fertility is still a biological process that can be enhanced naturally. Many reproductive practices require no equipment nor do they culminate in costly medical bills, just a well thought out diet and lifestyle regimen.

Any mother knows stress only intensifies once the baby makes its arrival. When pursuing a pregnancy ask yourself some pertinent questions: How will I make time for a new or additional baby?

Have I streamlined my life to accommodate a new family member? What are the dynamics of my household? Have I considered the toll a baby will take on my partner? How will we dole out responsibilities? Consider seeking out a licensed therapist to examine these concerns and to assist in removing potential roadblocks that may be contributing to feelings of anxiety or depression.

In the United States, about 9% of men and 11% of women of reproductive age have experienced fertility issues. In about 1/3 of these cases, the cause is related to the man, another 1/3 is associated with the woman and in the final 1/3, the cause remains unidentified. Interestingly enough, most if not all, of the fertility conversation focuses on women even though men play a vital role in the final outcome as well. There are action steps men can take to improve sperm count and quality, thereby creating Olympic grade swimmers!

2. Sleep In life’s hierarchy of physical survival needs, sleep is often the first need to be sacrificed. There are many reasons we do not get enough sleep, a common justification is a lack of time. Time management practices can aid in providing structure to the day thereby increasing efficiency. There will always be surprises in scheduling, but having a consistent routine makes it easier to get back on track.

In contemplating fertility, how often is lifestyle, diet and nutrition fully explored? Often it is an afterthought, only given a brief overview. It is imperative to examine some basic tenets of reproductive health that are often overlooked in practice. These tenets can significantly enhance fertility success with or without advanced medical techniques.

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1. Stress Stress is the most underestimated fertility killer. Many women who express frustration about the inability to conceive often lead very busy lives. High-achieving women are used to accomplishing everything they set their sights on; not being able to realize the goal of conception may be especially difficult to manage psychologically. Compared to men, women tend to take on more of the emotional toll, as much of their perceived self-worth is tied into the ability to create life.

High-grade stress triggers the overproduction of cortisol and adrenaline released by the adrenal glands. When disruption occurs, the hormonal pathway favors cortisol production over sex hormones. Since the same precursor hormones are used to synthesize both cortisol and sex hormones, levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone decline.

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Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which an individual cannot get to sleep or stay asleep, it is important to investigate all possible causes with a sleep specialist. Stress can affect sleep cycles as well. Cortisol is highest in the morning then gradually declines throughout the day until it reaches its lowest levels around bedtime. The opposite occurs under stressful conditions. Insomniacs tend to have higher levels of cortisol and brain activity than average resulting in more frequent arousals. Having an erratic sleep schedule upsets the brain’s process of recharging while we are asleep. In this scenario, sexual arousal is affected as well and we all know how babies are born. Do not rob yourself of your body’s natural process of renewal. Establish a realistic bed time and stick to it, make sleep a priority now before the baby arrives.

3. Self-Care For those struggling with infertility, constant medical appointments can be depressing; it is vital to keep one’s spirits uplifted and positive. During this time, it is essential to avoid internalizing any fearful thoughts. Incorporate daily reflection into your life by way of prayer, journaling and/or meditation. Others may benefit from receiving a massage, acupuncture treatment or reading a book. Participate in any activity that invites you to slow down, reset and focus on creating more joy in your life. One unique practice is to recite fertility affirmations while visualizing the child that you wish to create. Repeat this affirmation daily: I let go of all stress and focus completely on having a healthy pregnancy.

A quality self-care regimen is a basic tool that will improve the mental and physical conditions to increase the fertility odds.

Alternatively, not having a self-care regimen can substantially alter or compound the toxic mental and physical state that contributes to infertility.

4. Nutrient Intake What is the best diet for preconception? The same diet that benefits everyone, an antioxidant-rich whole foods diet plentiful in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Research has shown that women who consume more vegetable protein demonstrate lower rates of infertility. Antioxidants are found in plant-based foods and are responsible for the vibrant colors seen in dark leafy greens and bright red tomatoes. They help neutralize free radicals that alter and damage cell DNA. Whole foods contain the cofactors needed for metabolic functioning and promote energy, both essential to conception.

The following nutrients are the most researched with a positive correlation to fertility: Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Alpha-lipoic acid, CoenzymeQ10 (ubiquinol), Carnitine, and the anti-inflammatory antioxidant-rich compounds Proanthocyanidins and Catechins. Supplementation can be achieved under the supervision of a naturopathic doctor, and consumption of foods containing these nutrients will lead the way to improved reproductive functioning.

5. Weight Management The National Infertility Association reports that 30 percent of infertility cases are due to weight extremes, which can alter hormone levels and disrupt ovulation schedules. Recent studies demonstrate an association with obesity and poorer oocyte (egg) quality. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, male obesity may alter testosterone and other hormone levels. In male fertility testing, it is not uncommon to observe low sperm count and poor sperm motility in overweight men. Moderate exercise not only burns fat, but has an additional benefit of increasing endorphins to abate the anxiety accompanying the disappointment of another negative pregnancy test. Conversely, extreme fitness programs can lead to irregular periods and decreased sperm counts.

When it comes to baby-making, one can no longer overlook the impact of stress, sleep deprivation, self-care, proper nutrient intake and weight management. For further assistance, seek out a naturopathic doctor with fertility expertise who can ensure that your foundation is optimal prior to conception.

Dr. Jennifer Pierre, ND, MPH is a licensed Naturopathic physician and the Medical Director of Revive Wellness Center in New Haven, CT, one of the winners of Natural Nutmeg’s 2019 Chinese Medicine / Acupuncture. Dr. Pierre successfully treats many women’s health issues including infertility, stress/anxiety, thyroid, autoimmune and chronic disease. She is a passionate public health advocate striving to increase patient access to integrative medicine. 203.387.1540 / DrJPierre.com / Revivewellnesscenter.com.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

5 Tips to DeStress in the New Year

By Kate Zachau, DO

W

hile stress is a hot topic all year, the holidays and the start of a new year bring a heightened awareness to the topic.

Even as we wind down from the season, self-care takes a back seat to the financial, social, energetic, physical and emotional demands that come up. There are ways we can (truly!) make this, or any, time of the year a special one.

1. Commit. Make a commitment to connect with yourself daily.

This time, as short as it may be, (even 1 minute can make a difference!), can shift the course of a day. Feel into your body, notice sensations and emotions that might be coming up, and be present to them like you would for a child. And if you forget one day, be gentle with yourself! Noticing is the first step in shifting, and it takes several redirects to make a new habit stick.

Knowing you’re committed to yourself lays the groundwork for making a change.

2. Reframe. Reframing is an effective way to help shift your state of mind around any event. Next time you catch yourself saying “now I have to….” [fill in the blank with the next obligation], try “now I get to….” It’s a subtle shift that makes all the difference. With one word, you’ve changed the attitude around your obligations towards one of gratitude. Now you get to go to that party or pick something special out for a loved one or try a new exercise routine. This begets more thoughts of gratitude – how amazing is it that you have someone to shop for, or friends to go see or a body that moves?

3. Care. While we’re thinking of everyone else, it’s easy to lose ourselves in the chaos. Your body is your first and oldest friend and your vehicle for all these experiences. In whatever way you can, support it – have an extra glass of water (especially first thing in the morning), add some greens to your plate, say no when you need to. Whether it’s a short walk outside, sitting in the silence of your car a few minutes extra before you hop out to run your next errand, or truly savoring your morning coffee, small moments of connection with yourself can keep you grounded.

• Movement. A quick burst workout like high intensity interval training or Tabata, can do wonders for moving any stressmaking energy and helping to soothe your nerves.

• Meditation apps and recordings. The Calm and Headspace apps make a guided meditation or mindfulness moment available at your fingertips.

• Emotional Freedom Technique, a.k.a. Tapping, is a phenomenal mind-body tool to help shift unwanted emotional energy. The Tapping Solution (website and book) is a great resource to learn more.

• Visualization. Taking a few moments each day to visualize the best version of events you can picture, with feeling, can go a long way. See the event going as joyously as you can imagine while feeling the joy, gratitude, peace, or whatever experience you want to have. This generates a memory in your brain so when you encounter the actual event, you and your body are prepared to experience your vision! Know this works just as effectively in reverse and without effort, so if you’re picturing everything that can go wrong, channel that energy into what you wish to see.

4. Plan. With social events and cozy days inside that are sure to provide goodies that aren’t likely on your regularly scheduled diet plan, it’s helpful to look at your calendar ahead of time. This can help you stay on track in between and fully enjoy your events without worrying about what you’re eating. Food is part of our social culture and enjoying it is part of the fun, so know when you plan to indulge so you can more easily stick to your normal routine leading up to it without feeling like you’re missing out.

5. Sleep. Doing any of the above can help mitigate stress, which ultimately can lead to increased immunity and improved sleep quality. Sleep is a crucial part of self-care (and sanity), and small things like eating a diet rich in whole foods, a daily mindfulness practice, cultivating gratitude, and moving your body can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep, which can lead to reduced cortisol levels and a better outlook. If you’re still struggling, consider some tools to take your sleep to the next level.

• Sleep meditations. The Sleep Guys, the Calm app, and Headspace all have free resources to guide you into a deeper sleep.

• Supplements. Magnesium can be a game changer when it comes to sleep quality. Look for magnesium in its citrate or glycinate forms for best results. Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting new supplements.

• Epsom salt baths. Getting away from screens, warming your body temperature then letting it drop (as you exit the tub), and the muscle relaxing effects of the Epsom salts all set you up for a deeper rest.

Dr. Kate Zachau is an osteopathic medical physician who is board certified in Family Medicine.

She practices family medicine, primary care and functional medicine at Collaborative Natural Health Partners in Manchester, where she works with a team of osteopathic and naturopathic physicians specializing in integrative approaches to wellness. Collaborative Natural Health Partners, Manchester, West Hartford, and Stonington. 860.533.0179. See ad on page 24. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Is Stress Literally WEIGHING You Down?

By Calypso Portugaels, CCH

D

ieting can only take you so far if your mental state can’t create or sustain good habits. Moreover, if you live in constant stress, you probably simply don’t have the energy to do what’s right. January, a couple of years ago, a new client came to me because she wanted to release some excess weight. At some point during the conversation she said, “I just need to lose the baby weight.” I replied, “Congratulations! When did you have the baby?” Turns out, her little bundle of joy is now 7 years old.

This happens so often. We want to lose the weight, but we fail at making it a priority.

We are so engrossed in, well, life itself, that we forget that in order to be a caring, loving person, we first need to care for and love ourselves and our bodies. This January, instead of once again making never fulfilled resolutions, we actually get to create real sustainable change in our lives and the lives of the people around us.

How long have you been wanting to get rid of your excess weight? How long has the idea of losing the weight been on the back burner of your mind? How stress inducing is the fact that you have, time and time again, failed to make that goal a priority? Because that’s the problem with important goals that

haven’t yet made it to the top of the list, they keep nagging at our mind. They always occupy and drain a little bit of our awareness.

That’s how you end up in a catch 22; the idea of (being incapable of) releasing the weight becomes a source of constant stress. And you know what stress does to your waistline?

Hint: it’s not helping it. Do you want more hints, or would you prefer cold hard facts?

1. Stress increases cortisol levels, which then increases your appetite.

Some people when faced with stress can’t eat anything. And frankly, I’m sure that has its down side but sometimes, I still do envy those people. When faced with stress, I used to eat until my body was so full that it’s all I could feel. I ate to numb my fears which is exactly what stress is. My practice of hypnosis and mindfulness have allowed me to truly reconnect to my body. They have taught me tools to drop in and really explore (sometimes even re-create) the mind-body connection.

2. Stress causes you to lose sight of your priorities.

These days before eating I’m able to ask myself whether what I’m feeling is real hunger or if I’m trying to fill a void created by feelings: fear, anxiety, boredom. If a specific feeling is the recurring trigger, hypnosis can then potentially heal the root cause of the

Remember the mom at the beginning of this story ? She spent 7+ years not listening to her body; that amazing body who had created a baby. When she finally decided to make a change she had to re-learn and re-listen to her own inner voice. That’s what hypnosis can do for you, by accessing your subconscious mind, you get to a place that’s highly suggestible and where true, life-long change can take place.

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This one is a two for one. By learning to manage your stress you will learn how to set and attain priorities. You’ll also realize that the way you feel in your own skin has to be at the top of the list. Moreover, learning to get your priorities straight is a sure solution to reduce stress and to feel less overwhelmed. Because you know what overwhelmed people do?

They eat that extra cookie/bag of chips/sugary drink/insert your poison here.

3. Stress makes you more susceptible to the ravage of sugar.

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issue and help implement better eating habits.

Some people, for example, might have gained weight for the illusion of safety the weight might bring, or as punishment for something.

A client was recently able to trace back her weight gain to the feeling of powerlessness she had felt when her mother got diagnosed with bipolar disorder. After identifying the root cause and the feeling, she was then able to make better lifestyle decisions and maintain them.

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Sugar is poison. Most of us know that.

What we don’t always realize is all the places where sugar hides and how to get rid of a sugar addiction once and for all. Because, make no mistake about it, sugar is an addiction. Some research even shows that it’s more addictive than hard drugs like cocaine. It’s been a conscious daily effort but I’ve been off sugar for 3 years now. Some people can do things in moderation, I’m not one of those

people. To me, quitting sugar completely was easier than to “just do it a little bit”.

Last spring, I went to a birthday dinner at a “comfort food" restaurant. I must have eaten something I didn’t realize was spiked with sugar because I remember going to bed feeling an intense sensation of dread, just overall unease. My heart was racing, I felt restless. I remember getting to bed and tossing and turning for an hour, then two hours.

Then when the clock marked midnight, I started to remember my long-gone years of insomnia and anxiety kicked in. It must have been 2 am when, still wide awake, I realized what had happened; my body was just experiencing a sugar rush.

Through that experience, I gained a new understanding about how sugar impacts us.

For me, this was a one meal fluke and yet it derailed my body and mood for days. There are millions of people still on the stuff, feeling terrible in their own skin, every single day.

So many of those people fail at making the connection between sugar and the way they feel, and even then, to do something about it. Ì feel very fortunate to have tools to help me conquer my old sugar addiction. The truth is, without hypnosis, I would have been back on the cake a long time ago.

A few months ago, after a hypnosis session, a client’s first sentence was, “This is amazing, it’s like a brain massage”. This was, by far, one of the greatest analogies I ever heard about the practice. As a matter of fact, that’s one of the things I hear the most; how after a session, sometimes for the first time in ages, clients truly feel relaxed. The beauty is that the feeling of relaxation will follow you in your daily life and will increase with every session. My wish is that you will let me teach you the tools you need to live a more stress-free life. Keep the pounds off by implementing long lasting change. Because it’s not (only) about showing you a blissful state, it’s about helping you regain agency over your own body.

Calypso Portugaels is a certified consulting hypnotist at Mind Matters Hypnosis Centers in Guilford, CT and New York City. As a meditation and movement teacher, she has learned to integrate mindfulness into her practice to work with clients toward their goals. She’s results driven and believes in implementing long term solutions. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, lecture, workshop, call Mind Matters Hypnosis Center at 860.693.6448 or visit MindMattersHypnosis.com.

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parasites who contribute to carb cravings and weight. With long-term stress, your immune system can get overwhelmed and you may develop an auto-immune disease like arthritis, allergies or asthma, and eventually cancer.

Is Stress Sabotaging Your Weight Loss Efforts?

Reducing Stress and Healing the Gut While you cannot always eliminate stressors, reducing your body's response to them is key. For acute and chronic stress use techniques like meditation or prayer, mindfulness, EFT tapping, the King Method and regular practice of yoga.

By Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN

A

s for many people, your New Year's resolution may include letting go of some extra pounds to improve your health and wellbeing. Maybe you have tried this in previous years and have gotten frustrated with weight not coming off despite best efforts. Maybe your excess weight returned promptly when you finally started eating normally again after weeks of deprivation. If weight loss seems daunting to you or you just can't resist those cravings and are blaming yourself for lack of willpower, I have some good news for you: it may not be your fault!

Calories In vs. Calories Out? The old adage of calories in vs. calories out that stipulates you will lose weight as long as you burn more than you take in is coming apart at the seams. You have probably noticed that some people are overweight despite eating small meals and exercising, while some lucky ducks can eat whatever they want and don't gain weight.

It turns out that our gut microbiome, the 100 trillion microbes that inhabit our intestinal tract, affect our weight and metabolism much more than caloric intake.

hand, when they were inoculated with gut bugs from lean mice, they stayed lean on diets with identical calories. Research shows that your gut microbes determine how much energy you extract from your food.

What Disturbs Our Microbiome?

Many things it turns out, such as diet, toxins and drugs, but a major factor is psychological stress. We are still discovering the tight connection between the brain and the gut. The good gut bugs produce B vitamins for mood and energy and precursors to brain neurotransmitters that make us feel good and sleep well. They are easily disturbed by stress, which then affects our metabolism, mood and sleep.

Stress inhibits activity of the vagus nerve resulting in lowered digestive and organ function. In addition, blood sugar levels rise, the immune system starts making inflammatory proteins, and the body holds on to fat. All of these responses served our ancestors well in dealing with stressors like saber tooth tigers or food shortages. In our modern world, our sources of stress are very different and much more constant, but the biological stress response remains Microbiome transfer studies have the same. If you have chronic stress, your shown that when sterile mice were inocudigestion is now constantly inhibited, your lated with the gut microbiome of obese microbiome shifts towards the "bad bugs" mice, they became obese too. On the other and yeasts like candida which cause sugar and starch cravings, your blood sugar is elevated and you are always inflamed while your immune system is weakened. The inflammation makes your blood stickier and your blood pressure rises. Your body will store more fats, espeintuitive readings  angel therapy®  medical intuition cially around the belly, and energy healing  sound healing workshops certificate programs won't let you burn it. You can easily develop leaky Priscilla Bengtson gut and food sensitivities.

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2020

On the physiological level, I use the Functional Medicine 5R program to heal leaky gut: identify and remove inflammatory foods, remove any microbial overgrowth or parasites, heal the gut wall, support digestion, and re-inoculate the gut with beneficial microbes. Constipation is common with stress and must be dealt with naturally or toxins are retained and the gut cannot heal. Once the gut wall has started to heal and inflammation has calmed down, gentle detoxing is necessary to keep candida and other opportunistic microbes from returning. Detoxing will only be successful if lymphatic drainage, bile flow, liver, kidneys, and circulation are functioning well. All of these should be checked and supported if necessary. Stress-induced nutrient deficiencies in magnesium, B vitamins, potassium, sulfur, anti-oxidants need to be corrected.

As you may have guessed, restoring the gut microbiome is not a one-sizefits all protocol. A good practitioner will thoroughly assess your individual needs and correct imbalances with personalized diet and supplement plans. As Hippocrates famously said, "All Disease Begins in the Gut." That's also where healing should begin. A healthy microbiome is a prerequisite for reaching a healthy weight.

Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN, practices Functional Medicine Nutrition in Connecticut. She aims to optimize metabolism and address the root cause of chronic disease. Her nutrition philosophy is to support the body’s innate ability to heal itself with personalized diet and supplement plans. Brigitta utilizes blood chemistry, autonomic response testing and functional medicine testing to determine individual diet and nutrient needs. Her focus is on eliminating inflammation, healing the gut, and detoxing. 5 Durham Road, Suite C2, Guilford 917.975.1784 jansennutrition.com info@jansennutrition. com. See ad on page 13.

Hypnosis: A Proven, No Diet, Weight Loss Solution

By Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv

T

hose long, cold, dreary days of winter are finally upon us again.

The beautiful holiday lights have dimmed. The festive decorations removed.

All the endless shopping seems such a long time ago. We enjoyed celebrations with loved ones and friends, indulging on delicious food and sharing conversation as the wine and bubbly flowed. The glittering ball of crystals began its descent signifying the beginning of a brand new year, a new beginning for us all. Resolutions were made but many, unfortunately, will soon be broken.

Like many, you may have promised yourself this would be the year! You vow to finally lose that unhealthy weight, to exercise more or really begin that new diet.

Your intentions are good but life gets in the way. Your motivation to end the struggle to lose weight simply dissolves and fades away. Unfortunately, you are not alone.

Gain Control and Lose Weight with Hypnosis There is good news for those who want to combat obesity, gain control and lose weight. Hypnosis is a natural, relaxing, easy and successful solution to finally lose weight without surgery, without deprivation and without dieting. You may be unhappy with your reflection in the mirror and the numbers on the scale, but it may seem impossible to gather the willpower needed to lose weight. Cravings, emotional eating and portion sizes cause you to feel completely out of control. We prom-

ise we’ll really begin that “diet” on Monday but the sabotaging behavior continues and “dieting” doesn’t work. Sometimes it feels as if there is a good angel and a bad angel on your shoulder and the bad angel is in control!

to satisfy emotional issues. We’ve learned to use food as a drug to modify our feelings and emotions.

Consciously we try over and over again to stop that sabotaging behavior but fail miserably blaming ourselves for our lack of willpower. We diet and deprive ourselves and become more unhappy and many actually gain more weight. This habit can gain strength over the years to become an automatic response the subconscious uses to address any stressful situation. It’s not your fault.

Hypnosis can harness the power of your own mind to end weight loss sabotage and you can think yourself thin.

Imagine, simply closing your eyes and relaxing as you listen to soft music and the gentle sound of the ocean as a trained Hypnotist guides you into deep and peaceful relaxation. In this day-dreamy state your subconscious mind can easily and naturally accept the positive suggestions for the changes you want to make. It may sound too Ancient Healing with a Modern Approach good to be true but Hypnosis works!

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Self-Sabotage and Emotional Eating

The subconscious mind is very much like a computer but it may be running old, defective or unwanted programs. Many have developed unhealthy relationships with food over the years. We eat when we’re sad, angry, lonely, stressed and even when happy. Many have developed the habit of overeating and using food

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Studies have shown that the subconscious mind manages over 90% of our behaviors. Logically, it doesn’t even make sense that we can change something on a conscious level when the subconscious is in charge. It’s obvious that simply using willpower is just not enough. Therefore, if you want to change a habit or modify behavior it can naturally and easily be changed by using Hypnosis.

and psychological blockages preventing one from accomplishing personal goals.

Hypnosis can finally end the old sabotaging behavior and help your mind work for you instead of against you. Hypnosis has the ability to help you stop the emotional eating and regain your willpower to eat consciously and healthfully so you can finally lose weight without deprivation.

What is Hypnosis?

Traditional Therapeutic Hypnosis has been used very successfully for behavioral changes and weight loss for many years.

However, the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis weight loss program was recently developed in Europe. This program gives the subconscious mind suggestions that the stomach is the size of a golf ball as if a gastric band were surgically installed.

The suggestions prevent over-eating and encourage smaller portion sizes resulting in measurable reduction of body fat and inches. This technique is a safe and

Hypnosis is widely recognized by scientists and researchers as a very safe, natural and enjoyable state of deep physical and emotional relaxation. It is a well-established fact that hypnosis can be used as an effective tool for everything from weight loss, smoking cessation, behavior modification, success and motivation, healing and even pain control as well as many other issues. It can help to alleviate negative thoughts, feelings and beliefs as well as eliminate the emotional

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healthy alternative to weight loss surgery and is designed to replicate the effects, results and benefits of the gastric band, or bypass surgery, without going under the knife. Best of all there is no hospital stay, no diet and no deprivation.

Hypnosis, whether Traditional or Virtual Gastric Band, may very well be the solution for those in search of a natural and healthy method to lose their potentially unhealthy, excess weight. Hypnosis can naturally help people make better food choices and lose weight without the high cost, risks and side effects of invasive surgery. Hypnosis may just be the answer for those searching for a way to finally be in control of food choices and portion sizes without feeling deprived of favorite foods or dieting.

More than 93% of patients benefit from hypnosis after only 6 sessions. According to American Health Magazine, most clients only show a 72% recovery after 22 sessions of Behavior Therapy, and 38% recovery after 600 sessions of Psychoanalysis. Anyone who has made a personal commitment to change behaviors or improve their health understands how difficult it can be to introduce and continue positive improvements in today’s stressful and chaotic world. Hypnosis has proven to be an effective, safe method to create the healthy and positive changes needed to naturally lose weight, without dieting, without deprivation and without surgery. Hypnosis can naturally help empower you to overcome the mental or emotional obstacles preventing you from living life to its fullest.

Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFTAdv, Director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center in Stamford, CT with more than 28 years of experience in Mind-Body therapy, is a registered Consulting Hypnotist, certified by and a member of the National Guild of Hypnotists and certified in the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Programtm, Thought Field Therapy™, and Advanced Thought Field Therapy. Diane specializes in fast, easy and effective holistic methods to help establish healthy eating, weight reduction, body sculpting, smoking cessation, stress reduction, pain reduction, success and motivation, sports performance, public speaking, fear and phobia elimination as well as assisting clients in effective life changing methods and programs. For more information call 203.595.0110 or go to www.mindbodytransformation.com. See ad on page 16.

The Final Resolution

By Sonia V. Manganello, DM, DD, CNC

W

hat if the New Year’s resolutions weren’t something that you decided to do once a year. What if it meant a start of a new lifestyle for the rest of your life. Resolutions are great as a yearly reminder to stay the course…that is if you are already on it. How can you go from the old to the new without excuses and gain action and momentum for your most important goals? Here are four questions to get you moving in the right direction and motivated to start fresh once and for all.

Are You Ready to Change?

Most people set their sights on large goals that are never fulfilled since they don’t start small and make actionable changes that they can see and build upon. Results from a University of Scranton study show that almost 50 percent of people give up on their resolutions by the end of March. Furthermore, less than 10 percent of people meet their goals. It takes statistically six months to make and stick a new habit.

In my book, “The Perseverance Diet – 12 Steps to Mind Body Nutrition Transformation,” I ask you this same question, “Are you really ready to make long lasting changes?” I guide you through the mystery of making and keeping great habits for a healthier lifestyle. If you have had it and are so done with how it’s been going for you up until this moment than let’s make a plan.

What Are You Doing to Change Your Mindset?

If resolutions have so many benefits, why do people give up on them so quickly? We make resolutions during an exciting but stressful time of year. Overspending and overindulging lead us to focus on negative behaviors as New Year’s Eve approaches. We think about areas in our life we are unhappy with and we create resolutions from a deficit mindset. When we are so focused on our weaknesses, it’s no wonder that we are unsuccessful in our attempts at change.

Shift your mindset for success! You’ve probably heard the saying “success breeds success,” and there is even research to back it up. Writing resolutions or better yet, long-term lifestyle goals from a strengths-based mindset is a shift that allows you to be successful right from the start. What are you already succeeding at that you could add to? Don’t forget it’s not about taking things away or suffering to attain this holy grail. It’s about taking what you have and working with it to make it great.

How Are You Loving Yourself With Self-Care?

Learning to love and take care of yourself is the first thing to set your sights upon when creating a long-term lifestyle goal. A self-care routine can be the easiest to overlook in your day to day life. But where do you start?

If you’re on your first leg of your journey to slower, intentional living, the first steps are difficult since you’ve been at the races for a long time. You can do it because you set the goal for yourself and you know that your health needs it. Self-care should be the first new routine you implement in your day to day life. There are the old adages of, “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” and “if you don’t take care of yourself, who will?” It took me years to truly understand what that meant for me. I was running myself ragged; stressed all the time because I kept running but never crossed the finish-line. All these things led me to look inward. I realized that I would be burned out if I didn’t start doing preventive care and putting the brakes on the rat-race.

What Does Your Nutrition On and Off The Plate Look Like?

We know that typical resolutions help us focus on improving key areas of our lives. It probably doesn’t surprise you that people make these goals top priority: exercise more, spend less, learn a new language, quit smoking, lose weight, or improve their relationships. These are important since they help you look and feel better in the new year. Admit it, you’ve probably made resolutions like these too. Believe it or not as you can see most of these have nothing to do with food and everything to do with the nutrition and nurturing you are receiving off the plate.

Yes, nourishing your body with healthy organic foods is important, but equally are the areas of the mind. Just imagine seeing this incredibly fit person and yet they are carrying loads of heavy imaginary baggage. Are they really fit? Are they really the picture of ultimate well-being? How are you nourishing yourself on and off the plate?

Dr. Sonia V. Manganello is a bestselling author of The Perseverance Diet, a health/life/nutrition coach, an interfaith minister, metaphysician and co-owner of Enlightened Health Partners located in Glastonbury. Enlightened Health Partners at 99 Citizens Dr., Glastonbury, CT. ehpglastonbury.com 860.966.8747 www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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HAPPENINGS

January/February 2020

Wednesday, January 1st

Wednesday, January 15th

Wednesday, January 29th

New Year’s Day Meditations with Priscilla Bengtson.

10–11:15am or 12–1:15pm. $10 love donation to our Scholarship Fund. Welcome the New Year with a new view on life! Join in this guided meditation which will help you release old beliefs, habits and thought patterns and shift your energy to a new way of being. Space is limited and registration is required. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson.

10–11:15am. $25. Quiet your mind and release old physical and energetic patterns with this amazing Sound Healing Meditation using Himalayan Singing Bowls. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Find your inner calm and walk away feeling refreshed and renewed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Home Message Circle with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $20. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. Your ability doesn’t matter as we are all here to get some practice and learn from each other. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 7th Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free and more with Priscilla Bengtson. 7–8:30pm. FREE. You want to eat healthier but there is so much conflicting information out there. Where do you start? Explore all the current food plans out there and learn how to make simple transitions to your diet to help you find what works for you. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, January 8th Healing in Harmony Night. 5–7pm. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive a 10–12-minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the Center. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Red Tent Roundtable with Dr. Kerr. 6:30–7:30pm.

Free. Come gather and be part of women supporting women. We will discuss fertility concerns and struggles, period trouble, and sexual health. Become empowered by learning the signs to look for when you are fertile and how your body operates month to month. Fertility Oasis, 857 N. Main St. Ext. Suite 1 Wallingford. www.fertilityoasis.com

Friday, January 10th So you want to be a Medium? with Priscilla Bengtson.

6:30–9:30pm. $65. Are you ready to take your intuitive skills to the next step by connecting with angels, guides and loved ones in the spirit world? Participants will learn the differences between mediumship and psychic ability, how to receive messages clearly and how to know who you are working with in the spirit world. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, January 11th Psychic Saturday. 10am–4pm. $25 for a 20-minute reading/$50 for a 40-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Check the web site for Readers. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, January 12th Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10am–Noon. $25. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck. The energy of the group helps us to release those things that no longer serve our highest good and allow us to live an empowered life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--January/February January/February2020 2020

Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Dan Lupacchino.

7–8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Dan will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, January 19th Expressions of Faith Spiritual Service with Rev. Karen Ellis. 9:30–10:30am. Love donations accepted. Rev. Karen will offer an inspirational talk, along with delivery of messages from the other side. If you are seeking a new expression of your faith, join us. Join in at 10:30 a.m. for a hands-on Healing Service. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, January 24th Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Christine Cartwright.

7–8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Christine will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, January 25th Reiki I with Christine Cartwright. 9am–5pm. $160.

Attune to the universal energy in this Level I Usui Reiki class. Participants will learn traditional hand positions, how to give a full body session and receive attunements to the universal Reiki energy for self-healing and healing others. Participants receive a manual, book and certificate. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 28th Mediumship Mentorship with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $35. You’ve taken the classes and you still don’t feel confident in your Mediumship readings. These sessions are designed to help you gain confidence in your readings, enhance your Mediumship training and receive personal feedback from an experienced Medium and teacher. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, February 4th Student Reader’s Night. 6:30–8pm. FREE. Don’t let the word student confuse you as they are well versed in the art of message delivery. These nights allow them to practice their mediumship, tarot or angel reading skills and for you to receive guidance.

Sessions are 15-minutes each. No appointments.

The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, February 5th Working with Crystal Grids with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $40. Learn the basics of grids, the various shapes and stones you can use. Participants will make a grid, activate it and then we will meditate as a group with our grids. You’ll take home some stones and grid templates and a whole lot of healing. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, February 7th Meet your Angels and Guides with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30–9:30pm. $65. During this workshop you will learn about your primary spiritual guides and guardian angels. Through meditation, we will meet them and receive information from them on how they would like to work with you. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, February 8th Psychic Saturday. 10am–4pm. $25 for a 20-minute reading/$50 for a 40-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Check the web site for Readers. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, February 9th Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10am–Noon. $25. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck. The energy of the group helps us to release those things that no longer serve our highest good and allow us to live an empowered life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, February 11th Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Christine Cartwright. 7–8:15pm. $35. Welcome in relaxation with the vibration and tones of the Himalayan Singing Bowls, Essential Oils and Reiki.

The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be

released. Christine will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, February 12th Healing in Harmony Night. 5–7pm. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive a 10 – 12-minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the Center. The healing services are offered one night each month. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury.

For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Red Tent Roundtable with Dr. Kerr. 6:30–7:30pm.

Free. Come gather and be part of women supporting women. We will discuss fertility concerns and struggles, period trouble, and sexual health. Become empowered by learning the signs to look for when you are fertile and how your body operates month to month. Fertility Oasis, 857 N. Main St. Ext. Suite 1 Wallingford. www.fertilityoasis.com

Sunday, February 16th Expressions of Faith Spiritual Service with Rev. Karen Ellis. 9:30–10:30am. Love donations accepted.

Rev. Karen will offer an inspirational talk, along with delivery of messages from the other side. If you are seeking a new expression of your faith, join us. Join in at 10:30am for a hands-on Healing Service. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, February 18th Integrated Energy Therapy (IET®) Information Night with Christine Cartwright and Dan Lupacchino.

7–8pm. FREE. Join IET® Master-Instructor Trainers Christine Cartwright and Dan Lupacchino for an informative evening into the world of IET®. Participants will learn a brief history of the development of IET and its many uses in healing. Learn a Heart-Link process to connect with these amazing angels. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, February 19th

Wednesday, February 26th

Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson.

10–11:15am. $25. Quiet your mind and release old physical and energetic patterns with this amazing Sound Healing Meditation using Himalayan Singing Bowls. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Find your inner calm and walk away feeling refreshed and renewed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Home Message Circle with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $20. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. Your ability doesn’t matter as we are all here to get some practice and learn from each other. A group facilitator will help you stay on track with your message if needed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visithealinginharmonycenter.com.

Mediumship Mentorship with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $35. You’ve taken the classes and you still don’t feel confident in your Mediumship readings. These sessions are designed to help you gain confidence in your readings, enhance your Mediumship training and receive personal feedback from an experienced Medium and teacher. Class size is limited so that each person can receive the guidance they need. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Reiki II with Christine Cartwright. 9am–5pm. $160. Receive attunements to higher frequencies of universal energy and enhance your healing work.

Learn how to do distance healing, as well as heal mental, emotional and past life issues. Participants receive a manual and certificate. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, February 21st

Looking For: Health & Wellness Independent Contractors Office space available in Retail/Office complex in Kensington, CT. Individual space or larger. Flexible terms, no long term commitment.

Call 860.505.7278 for details.

Full Moon Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Dan Lupacchino. 7–8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Dan will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, February 29th

CLASSIFIED

Tuesday, February 25th Wicca, Witchcraft, and Magick with Dan Lupacchino. 7–8:15pm. $25. Are these topics that intrigue you? Excite you? Scare you? There is a lot of misconceptions and bad “PR” when it comes to the art and religion of witchcraft. Join Dan, Witch and High Priest, for a night of discussion into the history and practice of modern day witchcraft. Bust some myths and join in on this conversation on this earth-based religion. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

DID YOU KNOW THAT

ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

Find more articles and search our web archive at naturalnutmeg.com

TOXINS

INFLAMMATION? Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – not to mention any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Contact us for more:

DrMar v i nSc hw ei t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8

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Community Resources ACUPUNCTURE Collaborative Natural Health Partners Nick Edgerton, ND, LAc & Diana Zitserman, ND, LAc 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 24.

HEALTH FOOD STORES Parkade Health Shoppe Manchester Parkade, 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT • 860.646.8178 M-Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am-6pm See ad on page 3.

FINANCIAL PLANNING Dana Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner, TrinityPoint Wealth 612 Wheelers Farms Rd.Milford, CT 06461 Office: 203.693.8521 | Fax: 203.693.8524 dana@trinitypointwealth.com See ad on page 43.

Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, AWMA® Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC 1 Corporate Drive Suite 225 Shelton, CT 06484 475.232.2713 • cwetzel@procyonpartners.net www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-wetzel/ www.procyonpartners.net See ad on page 24.

Dr. Steven F Hinchey, DMD South Glastonbury 860.633.6518 • drhinch@agd.org dochincheydmd.com Thank you to our wonderful patients who trusted our team to care for their improved oral health. Please let your family and friends know that a healthy disease-free mouth will help your overall health – it is all connected – the mouth and the body.

And we can help you get there.

See ad on page 11

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY David London, MD 544 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880 Ph: 203.557.6574 Fax: 860.973.1655 567 Vauxhall St. Ext, #218, Waterford, CT 06385 Ph: 860.443.5822 Fax: 860.444.0581 davidlondonmd.com

HYPNOSIS

James Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC ProNatural Physicians Group, LLC Berlin, CT • 860.829.0707 pronaturalphysicians.com James Osborne is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Board Certified PTSD Clinician and a Fellow in the American Psychotherapy Association with over 40 years of clinical experience. I am honored and grateful to receive this recognition for a second year. I thank all who have shared their lives and stories with me.

See ad on page 33.

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. 203.595.0110 • mindbodytransformation.com See ad on page 16.

Joann Dunsing Hypnosis 204 Cherry Street, Milford CT 06460 203.907.7710 • joanndunsing.com I am passionate about enabling you to get the changes you want! This is accomplished by empowering you through the skillful use of NLP Neuro-linguistic programming, EFT Emotional Freedom Techniques also known as Meridian Tapping and the relaxed focused state of Hypnosis.

Mind Matters Hypnosis Center Calypso Portugaels, CCH Guilford and West Hartford, CT 860.693.6448 info@mindmattershypnosis.com www.mindmattershypnosis.com Mind Matters Hypnosis Center has been serving the community for almost 20 years. We have conducted over 40,000 successful sessions (children and adults) on every issue from weight release and smoking cessation to complex cases involving disease and addictions. Call for free consultation today. Offering remote sessions worldwide.

Se ad on page 3.

Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH 267 William Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860.704.9054 • mprousseau@sbcglobal.net www.micheleprousseau.com

HOLISTIC DENTIST

INTEGRATED MEDICINE

HOLISTIC CENTERS Bridge Healing Arts Center 304 Main Street, Farmington, CT 06032 860.404.2578 • BridgeHAC@aol.com www.BridgeHAC.com.

HOLISTIC COUNSELING

Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT Fairfield, CT • 203.371.0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com A recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry, Dr. Breiner treats patients for a myriad of dental concerns including Sleep Breathing Disorders, TMD, Mercury Toxicity, hidden Infections from Cavitations and Root Canals. “If you have unexplained symptoms that won’t go away, the answer could be in your mouth.”

See ad on page 33.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--January/February January/February2020 2020

Collaborative Natural Health Partners Kate Zachau, DO, Julia Vitali, DO, Brad Brooks, DO, Amy Smith-Bassett, nurse practioner 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 24.

ProNatural Physicians Group 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 860.829.0707 • www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33.

Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804.

203.740.9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com

Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt Street, New Milford CT 860.354.3304 • tsachsmd.com Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by uncovering and correcting the underlying root causes of your health concerns, while remaining respectful of the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She comprehensively and thoughtfully creates personalized plans explaining why and how each area of your healing will be addressed.

See ad on page 28.

LIFE/BUSINESS/HEALTH/ ORGANIZATIONAL COACH Dr. Sonia Manganello, DM, DD, CNC Enlightened Health Partners, LLC Glastonbury, CT • 860.966.8747 soniamanganello.com Sonia is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Life, and Spiritual Coach, as well as a 4th generation clairvoyant/medium/healer.

She is the author of the Amazon Best Seller, The Perseverance Diet: 12 Steps to Mind Body Nutrition, teacher, successful entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Dr. Adam Breiner, ND Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com Focusing on brain health and Lyme Disease, Dr. Adam Breiner offers cutting-edge therapies that include Hyperbaric Oxygen, Neurocognitive Therapies including sophisticated brain-imaging equipment to evaluate brain injuries and brainwave patterns associated with Metabolic Imbalances, Infections, and Allergies. Conditions treated include Concussions, TBI’s, Stroke, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and more.

See ad on page 22.

Collaborative Natural Health Partners Dr. Lauren Young, Dr. Ashley Burkman, Dr. Tonya Pasternak, Dr Craig Fasullo, Dr. Carolina Padilla, ND, Dr. Carissa Fioritto, ND 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com Other locations: 107 Wilcox Road, Ste 103, Stonington, CT 06378 74 Park Road, West Hartford, CT 06119 See ad on page 24.

Jill Kenney, ND Integrative Medicine and Support Services Park Avenue Medical Center 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611 61 Sherman Street, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.418.7657 • www.drjillkenney.com 781.507.1319 • drkenney360@gmail.com See ad on page 20.

Naturopathic & Acupuncture Health Center Dr. Marie Mammone, Dr. Renee Mammone, NDs John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 860.529.1200 • www.NAHcenter.com New England Naturopathic Medical Center, LLC Lesa Werner, ND 860.308.1635 • www.drlesawerner.com See ad on page 8.

The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT • 203.847.2788 See ad on page 39.

West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT 860.232.9662 • www.DRAIETA.com See ad on page 20.

ProNatural Physicians Group Dr. Ann Aresco, Dr. Cait Barbiero, & Dr. Martin Opoku 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 P: 860.829.0707 • F: 860.829.0606 ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33.

NUTRITION Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203.834.9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com See ad on page 19.

Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness Jane Grant, RD CD-N 37 Webster Square Road, Berlin, CT 860.357.2282 grantj@grantsnutrition.com Jane Grant is trained in integrative and functional nutrition utilizing a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health. Call or e-mail to schedule an appointment. Most insurance is accepted.

PHYSICIANS, M.D. Natural Health & Healing, LLC Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 41 N. Main St, Ste 207, West Hartford, CT 860.677.4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net See ad on back cover.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, M.D. 111 High Ridge Rd. ,Stamford, CT 06905 203.348.8805 • www.drsobo.com See ad on page 33.

SCHOOLS The Graduate Institute 171 Amity Rd, Bethany, CT 06524 203.874.4252 • info@learn.edu See ad on page 27.

SKINCARE/ NATURAL BEAUTY Immortal Opulence Old Wethersfield, CT 860.712.1933 ImmortalOpulence.com Richard Fanelli, Founder/formulator of Immortal Opulence Anti-aging Skin Cream.

Coming from a family of European MDs, Richard was inspired to create this high-performance, anti-aging skin cream. Over 27 powerful ingredients of organic, wild grown botanicals from remote areas around the world. No chemicals ever. Hand crafted in small batches to assure impeccable quality.

See ads on page 24 and 32.

ORGÁNACHS Farm To Skin Westport, CT • 203.221.0435 info@organachsfarmtoskin.com organachsfarmtoskin.com CT’s premier natural beauty boutique offering clean, safe skincare and makeup. Our mission is to educate our customers on the benefits of using highperforming organic skincare. We offer a curated selection of the top brands in organic beauty. In-store organic facials from luxury Irish skincare brand VOYA and makeup application services available by appointment.

Imagine Float 290 West Main St., Avon 860.255.7771 • imaginefloat.com See ad on page 18.

YOGA/PILATES/ BARRE STUDIO

Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS Creative Edge Yoga, LLC Guilford, CT • 203.488.1700 www.creativeedgeyoga.com Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS has over 25 years experience as a Yoga and Movement Therapy practitioner. In addition to teaching group classes, Alan’s specialized individual therapeutic work centers on Posture Alignment Therapy and Movement Re-patterning to address the root causes of musculoskeletal pain, imbalances and other movement challenges.

Sacred Rivers Yoga East Hartford, CT • 860.657.9545 sacredriversyoga.com Paula Scopino, E-RYT 500 hour, C-IAYT, CT Licensed LMT, YACEP is the Owner/Director of Sacred Rivers Yoga and Allied Health Therapies and ‘Sacred Rivers Yoga for Every Body’, a Yoga Alliance 200 and 500 Hour Registered School, as well as a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga Therapy.)

See ad on page 7.

SPAS/WELLNESS CENTERS Body + Sole Spa Therapies West Hartford 860.233.7226 • bodysolespa.com Body + Sole is a skincare and bodywork collective comprised of passionate professionals who love what we do. We continuously research treatments and trends to offer the latest innovations in the beauty industry. We test every product and practice every treatment so you feel confident in us and yourself.

Planning an Event?

List it in the NN Calendar!

Contact Diane at diane@naturalnutmeg.com to learn more!

ROLFING® Rolfing®- The Art and Science of Body Change Sharon Sklar, BFA, MsT, Cert. Adv. Rolfer West Hartford • 860.561.4337 sharonsklarrolfing.com Rolfing®-The Art and Science of Body Change.

A dynamic 10 session bodywork series that eases pain, improves movement and restructures your body when you feel "out of whack". A hands-on and educational approach which establishes order and balance after life's injuries, stress and accidents. Since 1981.

See ad on page 22.

· Certified Shamanic & Shapeshifting Practitioner · Registered Yoga Teacher: Gentle, Mixed, Shamanic · Certified Hypnotherapist & Regressionist · Spiritual Counselor, Mentor, Reader · Host “The Sacred Journey” TV Show · Workshops, Children’s Circles, Energy Healing · CT Justice of the Peace: Nature Inspired Ceremonies · International Retreats & Cruises: Shamanism, Yoga, & Psychic Development

www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 41 41

wants to accomplish in her life. This is never an easy path, but an exceptionally rewarding path. Most people are afraid of this level of commitment because they fear what they might lose in their lives. What I have personally discovered is that the right people in our life will take the journey with you, they will commit to growing in their lives and they will honor and respect your decisions by living in alignment with your required standards.

Was That a Spiritual Set-up?

By Robin Clare, MBA

W

hen I first began my spiritual journey, I declared that my spiritual mantra was, “Bring it On!” This has resulted in a spiritual journey with many wonderful miracles and many difficult healing moments. It seemed like each time that I wanted to go deeper on the journey, the Divine would come in with what some might call a “test” to see if I was ready.

to understand what had happened. I responded with, “Perhaps, you experienced a spiritual set-up.” I do not believe that the Divine is testing us, but I do believe that they will give us situations in our life that show us how ready (or not) we are to move into the next level of our journey.

In the next part of the conversation, she said to me, “I want to include the Eight Recently, a client told me about Limbs of Yoga in my book that I am writa series of experiences in her life that ing.” These Sanskrit teachings are core prinimpacted her down to her very core. Her ciples that serve as a compass for living a sharing included unbelievable moments meaningful and purposeful life. It was as if that could have come right out of a movie. the Divine said to her, “If you want to teach Everything in her life shattered into a the Eight Limbs of Yoga, you must be living series of disturbing circumstances. At first, them first.” In other words, she must be I thought I was just listening to a series of vibrating at the same level as the teachings, unfortunate events, but as we left that con- in order to teach them. The series of unforversation and went to the next one I began tunate events all clearly showed her that her life was not in alignment with the teachings Dr. Katy and now she had to make a choice. If she chooses to recommend these high ND, MSPT energy teachings as a solution to the problem she was writing about, she will continue to experience life opportunities to raise her vibration.

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If she chooses to change her life, not only will the teachings come with ease, but she will also grow substantially on her journey. This level of commitment to her spiritual journey requires a deep promise to herself to do whatever it takes to hold the vibration of what she is teaching and what she

In essence, you don’t have to give up your life, but you have to set your standards and hold them with impeccable integrity.

One of my teachers once said to me, “Those who are meant to take the journey will rise in vibration with you, perhaps not in the same way, but they will show consistent growth. Those who are not ready to grow with you, will fall away from your life.”

Those words have sustained me over many periods of spiritual growth in my life. As a spiritual author, I have to share many of my spiritual set-ups in my books. This is my commitment to write books that are truly authentic and transparent. Beginning in 2020, I will be expanding my business to include coaching for spiritual authors.

If you know that you have a crazy, difficult, wonderful story to share with others then please go to https://my.timetrade.com/ book/G2QDK to set up a FREE and CONFIDENTIAL 30-minute Discovery Call with me and we will explore together!

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