Natural Nutmeg June 2011

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Living Naturally

June 2011

Not On My Shift

Bernie Siegel, MD

Prostate Cancer: Structure, Screening, Prevention Desmond Ebanks, MD

Optimizing Athletic Performance David Priest, LMT and Nancy Sinchak, LMT

The Anti-Radiation Diet: A Sign of the Times?

Debra Anastasio, ND

No-Diet Weight Loss: Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx

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In this Issue Prostate Cancer: Structure, Screening, Prevention Desmond Ebanks, MD 11

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The Anti-Radiation Diet: A Sign of the Times?

Debra Anastasio, ND 18 Optimizing Athletic Performance David Priest, LMT and Nancy Sinchak, LMT 20

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PUBLISHERS Dr. Diane Hindman Chris Hindman Publisher@naturalnutmeg.com Editor-in-Chief Deb Percival Deb@naturalnutmeg.com

No-Diet Weight Loss: The Virtual Gastric Band Program Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx 36

ADVERTISING SALES Dr. Diane Hindman advertising@naturalnutmeg.com Aimee Chandler aimee@naturalnutmeg.com

Departments News&Notes 8

ADVISORY BOARD Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. • Desmond Ebanks, M.D. Henry Sobo, MD • Ann Aresco, N.D. • Debra Gibson, ND Richard Duenas, D.C. • C. Evers Whyte, DC, DACBN David Johnston, DO • Tom Moorcroft, D.O. Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, LAc, CCH

Prescription for Living 10 Supplements 101 24

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Healthy Self 27 Know your herbs 32 Healthy Cooking 38 Calendar 39 Resources 43

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Natural Nutmeg

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 good health.

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Natural Nutmeg Magazine

P.O. Box 447, Avon, CT 06001 Ph. (860)206-9500 • Fax (860)263-8505 In keeping with our concern for the environment, Natural Nutmeg is proudly printed on recycled paper with soy based inks.

Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut. Please call for a location near you. If you would like to receive Natural Nutmeg at your place of business please call (860) 206-9500 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com. © 2007-11 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 articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your feedback.

publisher'sletter

M

y grandmother once gave me a very precious piece of wisdom. After listening to me complain about how long it was taking for me to finish my dissertation, she said, “You kids nowadays expect things to happen overnight. In my day, we took our time and found joy in mastering a craft. Let it take as long as it takes, you’ll learn something from this experience.”

From her valuable insight, I came to realize that anything worthwhile in life requires time, patience and persistence.

Patience is indeed a gift. It helps us to deal with frustrations and failures without losing our vision or becoming irritated and depressed. It helps us reduce stress and maintain a sense of calmness when we encounter unexpected situations that upset our schedule or require us to wait for something. These situations give us an opportunity to practice disciplined patience.

Unfortunately, in our society today, we are accustomed to instant gratification and we demand it. We are used to getting what we want, how we want it, where we want it, instantaneously. We have high speed internet, instant messaging, one hour photo, movies on demand and online shopping. We have 24 hour grocery stores and dry cleaners that also deliver directly to our door. If you live in the city, you have anything you want at your finger tips every minute of the day from restaurants to fitness centers to convenience stores and more. It’s no wonder why we expect whatever we want to materialize instantly.

Although it may seem wonderful to have all of these conveniences, they come at a great cost to everyone in society. Modern conveniences allow people to pack more into their life, but they are losing patience in the process. We all have managed to compress time to such an extent that we are now painfully aware of every second that we wait for anything. The next time you or someone you witness has to wait for something, watch the reaction. It probably won’t be pretty.

We will experience much more success when we are patient with ourselves and others. Think of it as an opportunity to reflect on where you are now and how far you have come. Sometimes we find that situations that require us to be patient are invaluable opportunities to realize that we are on the right path or the wrong path. It is a chance to take a step back and make changes to ensure we are on the right path before we reach our destination and realize that we don’t really want to be where we ended up.

Examining nature is a great way to observe patience. It takes time for things to grow, mature and reproduce. You don’t see nature struggling against the natural course of time to speed things up. It is a beautiful unfolding of things occurring exactly when they are supposed to.

In health and happiness,

NaturalNutmeg.com

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news & notes Good Food Jobs with The Milkman Company

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ood Food Jobs is for people who want meaningful food work, created as a way to strengthen the food economy by encouraging growth and exploration, one that is satisfying, empowering, and beneficial to others. We are dedicated to changing the world, one hard worker at a time. The American and local food supply is in danger, and so is our health. Local farming and supportive consumers and workers can restore the broken down and corrupt system. The Milk Man Company has opportunities for chefs, prepared farm fresh meals, marketing and sales, distributorships, and people who can make deliveries. The Milk Man is back!

For more information, visit http://goodfoodjobs.com/jobs/3502/milkman.html. www.TheMilkManCompany.com or email us @ TheMilkManCompany@Earthlink.net.

Famed Chef and Restaurateur Carole Peck Opens Zeeburger

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rend-setting chef and noted restaurateur, Carole Peck is opening a casual eatery called Zeeburger, whose hamburger menu will reflect her love of local and farm fresh. Zeeburger is located in the Sherman Village Plaza at 670 Main Street in Woodbury, not far from her acclaimed and award-winning restaurant, Good News Café.

Peck is indeed supporting area and regional farms. She is sourcing meat for the burgers from several organic and grass-fed farms. The milk for Zeeburger’s milkshakes and floats will come from Arethusa Farm Dairy in Litchfield, and she’s created a maple syrup shake using fresh maple syrup processed in Woodbury.

For those who want a lighter, vegetarian fare, Zeeburger offers three types of Zee Green Goods: Caesar Salad, Chopped Salad and Crunchy Kale Salad.

Fresh dairy beverages are real and hand-dipped milk shakes and floats that come in either two ounce or twelve ounce sizes with a variety of flavors including: chocolate, vanilla, malted, coffee, banana, raspberry, mint, hazelnut and maple syrup. Beer and wine will be served for adults.

Carole Peck, widely recognized as one of the most talented chefs for her visionary and trendsetting cuisine and one of the first chefs in the northeast to embrace the benefits of farm fresh and natural ingredients, is the owner of The Good News Café in Woodbury, a top awardwinning restaurant from Zagat’s Guide, the New York Times and Connecticut Magazine.

For more information about Carole Peck, Zeeburger and The Good News Café, visit: www.zeeburger.com, www.good-news-cafe.com and join Carole Peck on Twitter.

Fuller Yoga and Pilates Moving to New Studio in Glastonbury

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uller Yoga Pilates and Massage offers a wide variety of yoga and pilates classes ranging from beginner to avid enthusiast, from Intro classes to Fuller Power Yoga and Fuller Yoga Flow. Massage and private lessons are available in yoga and pilates.

The studio is equipped with a pilates reformer, chair and ½ cadillac. They will be hosting their Grand Opening Week June 4th through June 10th and will be offering specials, raffles and a chance to tour their facility. Hours of operation are 9:00am9:00pm Monday - Thursday, 9:00am-7:30pm Friday, 8:00am-2:00pm Saturday and Sundays at 2pm for a women-only yoga class. Monthly memberships and 10 class cards include all open classes and are conducive to various work schedules. You can find schedule and rate information at www.fulleryoga.com Fuller Yoga instructors are required to have a strong background in anatomy and postural alignment. Instructors cater their classes to meet the abilities and challenges that students want and need. Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage believes in innovative programming and challenges their students to grow past limitations previously set.

Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage seeks to advance each student both physically and mentally.

Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage is owned and operated by Lauren Justine Fuller, a seasoned yoga instructor and pilates trainer with over 13 years experience who has studied yoga and pilates both nationally and internationally, and has been coined “the yoga whiz”. One of Justine’s favorite quotes is “Take time or time will take you.”

For more information call (860)430-9642 or online at www.fulleryoga.com. Fuller yoga is located at 2450 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT. See ad on page 17.

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No Vet Left Behind - Yoga Benefit

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rika Halford will be leading a relaxing, all levels yin yoga class to benefit No Vet Left Behind on May 22nd from 6-7:30pm at Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street in Glastonbury. We will be collecting money, toiletries, and nonperishable food. This organization assists homeless and newly returning veterans in regaining dignity and independence after the sacrifice they have given for us. The people they serve are former members of the military who may be struggling with substance abuse and Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. On an average day 8-10 veterans are in need of assistance.

No Vet Left Behind: • Offers a food pantry • Works to keep families together • Helps veterans prepare for employment • Provides emergency shelter services • Assists with obtaining medical and other benefits.

No Vet Left Behind is an independent organization with no connection to the United States Veterans Administration and is a registered 501(C) (3) organization; all donations are tax exempt to the extent of applicable law. For more information about the organization, visit www.thenovetleftbehind.org Please consider attending this class, even if you have never done yoga to show your support and help raise awareness and much needed resources. If you cannot attend the class and would like to help, you can leave donations at Sacred Rivers Yoga in Glastonbury.

For more information call Sacred Rivers Yoga at 860.657.9545 or visit online at www.sacredriverwyoga.com. See ad on page 42.

Taking Care with Cynthia Ebanks, R.N.

providing support, guidance and inspiration for families challenged by illness, injury and dementia.

Celebrating the Moments

Tired of being told to live with your HEADACHES?

H

eadaches are extremely common in the United States but just because a symptom is common, it does not mean it’s normal.

A symptom is a normal function of the body and the function of a symptom is to tell you when your body isn’t functioning the way it should. By masking the cause of the problem with a symptom-reducing drug all that is accomplished is delayed healing. Chiropractic is a form of health care that focuses on strengthening the immune system naturally from within and without drugs. People that undergo regular Chiropractic care have shown tremendous results with reducing and eliminating their headaches and many have eliminated drugs from their life in the process.

It seems like every other commercial on television is about drugs. As if that isn’t enough, almost every single drug has more side effects than what the drug is designed to get rid of. The question we must ask is, “Are we healthier from all of these artificial chemicals we’re putting into our bodies?” Our bodies already are the most complex of “chemistry experiments” in the world and don’t need more chemicals to be put into the system. The body doesn’t need any help it just needs a lack of interference.

If you’ve been experiencing headaches for any length of time, try a truly natural and preventative approach at Stamford Chiropractic & Rehab Center, located at 999 Summer Street, Suite 204 in Stamford, CT. (203) 276-1293.

It’s summertime. Even as we look forward to celebrating graduations, showers, weddings, reunions — we worry about family members with illness or injury, in the throes of cancer treatment, or disabled by stroke or dementia. How do we include them and make it easy for everyone?

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Talk with family — and the affected loved one — who may be having the same anxiety. Discuss physical and emotional concerns. Examine expectations. Will it be too long a day, too noisy an experience? Are there handicapped facilities?

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Ask a friend or “distant” family member to keep a watchful eye and even drive your loved one home early if needed.

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Engage a companion through a homecare service. The companion can tend to your loved one’s needs during the event or arrive when you call to take over as needed.

We’ll all face limitations in our life and want to be included in special occasions. Ask for help. Engage resources. It can be done!

Assisted Living In The Home A registered nurse, trained in dementia and Alzheimer’s, Cynthia Ebanks founded New England Nightingales to help families in the Farmington Valley area provide for loved ones at home. Call, click, or scan icon for information or a free home assessment.

860-676-7786

www.newenglandnightingales.com NaturalNutmeg.com

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prescription for living

by Bernie Siegel, MD

Not On My Shift

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he issue of death and loss is a subject that is not really confronted when you get a medical education. I struggled a great deal with my feelings and wondered how any God could create a world with so many problems and afflictions.

In the hospital the word death is rarely used. Patients pass, fail, leave, or go to a better place. The morgue at Yale is in the Brady Building. When my friend Allen died and I entered his empty room no one would say he died when I asked, “Did Allen Die?” They answered, “He Bradied.”

Most people die in the hospital in the middle of the night when families are not there to make you feel guilty and doctors are not there to stop you. A group of young doctors were competing with each other on their eight hour shifts to keep a man from dying until one wrote an article about their sick behavior entitled, “Not on My Shift.” I see how much control we have over when we die in families where love is shared. To quote a young child with cancer, named Amber, who on her mother’s birthday said, “Mom, I’m dying today as a gift to you to free you from all the trouble.”

Now accidents happen too and not every death is like Amber’s or my Dad’s. My Dad died laughing because of stories my mother told about their early dates. The first related to his losing a coin toss and having to take my mother out. When he died the room was filled with love and it touched everyone of every age and left them without fear. My Mom, age ninety-five, died just before our 50th wedding anniversary as a way of getting more people to come to our celebration, as well as, her funeral. That’s the kind of mother she was and I also knew, unlike my Dad, she would not die with her kids in the room.

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My in-laws also taught me lessons, both dying in their nineties. My quadriplegic father-in-law refused dinner and his vitamins one night, told us he was tired of his body, and died that night. Years before I asked him for advice when lecturing seniors. Because of his accident he said, “Tell them to fall on something soft.” A few days later I visited him and he said, “It doesn’t always work. They stood me up in therapy and I fell over and broke my wife’s leg. So tell them to just fall up.” The words, he just fell up, are on his headstone in the Woodbridge cemetery. My mother-in-law died peacefully an hour before I was to have lunch with her. I felt something had happened and went to her nursing home early. The nurse said, “Oh you heard.”

I said that I hadn’t heard but I knew. I think my mother-in-law was just trying to avoid lunch with her multiple personality son-in-law.

What they taught me is that we can spend our lives living and not dying when love is present and guilt is not an issue.

Bernie holds a support group in Simsbury at Wisdom of the Ages the first Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm. Wisdom of the Ages, a special place to nurture your spiritual side. It's filled with items to calm the mind, heal the body & empower your spirit. They also provide massages & monthly meditation classes. Wisdom of the Ages is owned by Bernie's son & daughter- in-law, Keith & Jane Siegel. Located at 1408 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury.

Please call for info or to register for Bernie's group. (860) 651-1172, www. wisdomoftheages.biz, berniesiegelmd.com. See ad on page 40.

Bernie also runs a Woodbridge Support Group which meets the Second and Fourth Tuesday evenings of each month at Coachman's Square, Bradley Road, Woodbridge, CT. Contact: Lucille Ranciato at 203-288-2839 or email her at lranciato@yahoo.com.

Prostate Cancer:

Structure, Screening and Prevention

By Desmond Ebanks, MD

T

he health of a very small gland has received a very large amount of attention in recent years. The battles of celebrities such as Louis Gosset Jr., Dennis Hopper, and Don Imus with prostate cancer have been well-publicized. Prostate health has been a featured topic on shows such as Anderson Cooper 360 and The Dr. Oz Show and in cover stories in magazines such as Newsweek, Men’s Health, and Consumer Reports on Health. By any measure, that’s a lot of attention paid to a gland that’s commonly described as being about the size of a walnut.

The greatest cause of concern with the prostate is prostate cancer. While cancer is generally the disease most feared by Americans, prostate cancer is the most feared cancer that affects men. Men (and the women who love them) have reason to be concerned. After skin cancers, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men.

Over 200,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year and more than 32,000 men die from prostate cancer each year in America. Despite these sobering statistics, there has been a slow but steady decline in prostate cancer deaths by about 30% since 1975.

Some doctors attribute this decline to early detection of prostate cancer. Like many other cancers, early detection and treatment can greatly increase survival chances. The introduction of the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test in the 1980s was supposed to revolutionize early detection for prostate cancer. Recent changes in the recommendations and conflicts between various health authorities, however, have made it difficult for the average man to know if this test is something they need or when they need it.

This article will cut through some of this confusion.

The first question to answer is: What is the prostate gland and what does it do? The prostate is a donut-shaped gland that sits just below the urinary bladder and completely surrounds the urethra. It contains sections of glandular cells that excrete fluids into a number of ducts that lead into the urethra.

The fluids these cells secrete form about 25% of the seminal fluid, including several substances that contribute to the survival of sperm and help the sperm reach the egg.

The prostate is therefore very important in promoting reproductive success.

In most adult men, the prostate is actually closer in size to a golf ball than a walnut. It starts off as a very small organ, then grows greatly during puberty. Some men experience further growth of the prostate later in life. This can be either as a result of a tumor growing in the prostate or a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is not a form of cancer, but instead is an overgrowth of the glandular cells.

Because the symptoms of prostate cancer and BPH are very similar, doctors will need to determine which condition a patient has.

In both diseases, this increase in size is generally unnoticed until the prostate becomes large enough to squeeze the urethra.

The urethra passes directly through the center of the prostate on its way from the urinary bladder to the outside of the body, so when it gets to be too large, a man will experience difficulty starting or stopping urinating.

This includes symptoms such as straining to urinate, a weak or intermittent urine stream, drizzling, or feeling a sense of incomplete emptying of the bladder. If the symptoms are

due to prostate cancer and the cancer has spread to the bones, then it may also cause pain in the pelvis, ribs, or backbone.

Like BPH, prostate cancer involves an overgrowth of prostate tissue. The difference is that in prostate cancer the cells divide and grow out of control and can break away from the original tumor to travel to, and start new tumors in, other parts of the body. The typical prostate tumor originates from the glandular cells. The incidence of prostate cancer increases with each decade of life.

The average age at first diagnosis is 72, and more than 75% of prostate cancer cases are found in men over 65.

American men have about a 1 in 6 chance of developing prostate cancer at some time in their life but only a 1 in 36 chance of dying from the disease. In fact, many men diagnosed with prostate cancer never receive treatment because of the slow growth and low risk of death from many tumors.

While generally these tumors grow slowly, some men have very aggressive tumors. This risk varies by race and age at first diagnosis. Prostate cancer that develops in a 40-year-old will tend to be more aggressive, grow faster, and have a greater risk of metastases than a prostate cancer that develops at age 80. African American men have the highest risk of developing prostate cancer, which also tends to develop earlier and more aggressively than in other demographic groups. The genes that regulate the growth, programmed cell death, and metastatic properties of prostate glandular cells are expressed differently in African American than in Caucasian men.

The two most common ways of detectNaturalNutmeg.com

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ing possible prostate disease are a digital rectal exam and the PSA test. The rectal exam is exactly what it sounds like – the doctor gently inserts a gloved finger into the rectum so they can feel the size and shape of the gland. Hard, lumpy, or otherwise abnormal areas will be cause for concern. The good news is that the examination is very brief.

The PSA test is a blood test that detects a protein produced by cells that line the ducts of the prostate gland. Normally, very small amounts of this protein are found in the bloodstream. When the prostate suffers injury or disease, however, the amount of PSA in the blood rises. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, scientists started identifying this protein and linking it to BPH and prostate cancer. In 1986 the first blood test for PSA was approved for use by the FDA. Because the prostate cells are the only cells in the body that produce PSA, it was considered a breakthrough in diagnostic tools.

Soon after the approval of this test, it became a standard tool to screen men for prostate cancer. By screening large numbers of men in early middle age, it was felt that prostate cancer would be caught before it advanced and hence cancer survival rates would rise.

Indeed, the Roswell Park Cancer Institute where the PSA test was first developed calls it, “the centerpiece in the early warning system for prostate cancer,” and credits the test with saving the lives of more than 2 million prostate cancer survivors.

The last ten years have seen more research released about the relative risks and benefits of routine PSA screening. If a screen is supposed to catch the “big stuff” (that is, disease) and let the “little stuff” (that is, healthy men) through, this research is showing PSA is a less effective screen than had been believed. For example, one study found that 15% of the men with a “normal” PSA level actually had prostate cancer. The introduction of widespread PSA testing has dropped the rate of “latent” prostate tumors discovered at one institution from 4.8% to 1.2%. Latent tumors are prostate cancers that existed during life but which evaded detection and were only discovered on autopsy after death. Routine screening is therefore not finding as many prostate tumors as had been hoped.

On the other side of the coin, even if the PSA level is high the benefit of PSA screening has been called into question. A European study demonstrated only a 20% relative reduction in the risk of death from prostate cancer in men that are screened. They estimated that 1,410 men would need to be screened and 48 men treated in order

to prevent 1 cancer death. A very broad study sponsored by the National Cancer Institute also found little impact of regular routine PSA screening on the chances for death from prostate cancer.

This newer information has changed the way doctors view PSA screening. The guidelines used to be simple but simple isn’t always correct. This is especially true when dealing with the complex environmental and genetic factors that lead to prostate cancer.

Today, authorities such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the American Urological Association agree that the decision to get screened needs to be one that is taken after consideration of risks and benefits. In my own practice, I discuss each patient’s individual risk profile based on race, family history, overall health, weight, diet, and other factors so together we can make the decision if screening is necessary or beneficial.

One of these factors is the levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. DHT is a derivative of the most important male hormone, testosterone. An enzyme in the prostate converts testosterone to DHT. DHT has a much greater effect on the glandular cells of the prostate than regular testosterone. Normally, this acts like an amplifier in a stereo, increasing the signaling power of testosterone. In BPH and prostate cancer, where the prostate cells are already overcharged, turning up the signal for growth even higher can have negative effects. Higher blood levels of DHT have been associated with increasing prostate size, but not with prostate cancer.

Strange as it may seem, estrogen is another hormone that can affect prostate cancer development and growth. Men produce a small amount of estrogen throughout their lives. The balance between estrogen and male hormones like testosterone is critical to maintain prostate health. As men age, though, the ratio between estrogen and male hormones shifts towards estrogen, changing the environment of the prostate.

By manipulating this hormonal environment, some scientists are trying to prevent prostate cancer development. Drugs that stop the conversion of testosterone to DHT are already used in treatment of BPH associated symptoms. They also are being investigated for prostate cancer prevention but the results have been mixed. These drugs have some serious side effects, which makes their widespread use require some caution.

The primary factors in the development of prostate cancer are family history, age, and race. These are obviously beyond the control of the individual person but there are some measures that

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the average man can take to lower his risk.

For example, reducing dietary fat intake has a proven beneficial effect. The effects of dietary fat on the heart are well-known, but high levels of fat intake are also linked to faster-growing prostate tumors. Eating foods that are high in anti-oxidants may also reduce the chances of prostate cancer by reducing the damage done to DNA by free radicals. None of this guarantees prevention, but it can reduce the risks that are under your control.

When all is said and done, it is important to realize that more men die with prostate cancer than from prostate cancer.

Keeping this in mind, talking with your doctor about issues like your individual risk of developing prostate cancer, need for and benefit of screening tests, and possible preventative steps is a wise idea.

Desmond Ebanks, MD is a board certified internal medicine physician specializing in age-management medicine; a science-based approach to preventive wellness, bioidentical hormone modulation and optimizing health at Alternity Healthcare, LLC in West Hartford, CT. He can be reached at 860-5612294 or online at www.alternityhealthcare. com. See ad on page 47.

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Men’s Health and Hormone Balance

By Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, L.Ac

M

en are often forgotten in the world of health when it comes to hormonal balance and the underlying factors that bring about ill health. Often they dismiss the signs of hormonal imbalances as a natural part of aging. While women’s hormonal balance is more overt, subtle changes in the endocrine system in men can cause a variety of conditions such as hot flashes, psychogenic changes, bone mineral loss, decreased libido and/or sexual function, weight gain, depression and other symptoms identical to the female menopause.

These conditions happen more often as men age. However, men at any age can suffer from adrenal insufficiency which is a leading factor of insulin resistance and low testosterone levels. In younger men, this manifests as burnout, anxiety, PTSS (Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome), insomnia and depression.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have a hormone problem: Difficulty passing urine, impotence, prostate inflammation, headaches/migraines, mood swings/depression, inability to lose weight, fatigue, foggy thinking/memory loss, lack of interest in sex, water retention/bloating, low blood sugar, adult acne, reduced muscular strength, enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction, lowered libido, burning sensation urinating, panic/weeping, blood sugar imbalance, leg/muscle cramps, feelings of being crazy, hysteria, allergies, swollen feet/ ankles, low thyroid symptoms, low sperm

count, incontinence, lack of sex drive, prostate cancer, breast enlargement, rapid weight loss, hair loss, hypoglycemia, anger/irritability, bone loss (osteoporosis), age and liver spots, dry aging skin, insomnia, diabetes.

What you should know about hormones: • Hormones have a profound effect on your everyday health and well-being.

• Although present in only tiny amounts, hormones act on every cell of your body.

• Hormones have individual effects, but also interact with each other to produce dramatic effects in the body; because of these interactions they are able to trigger multiple body systems.

• When any of the hormones are imbalanced, symptoms may occur. Imbalances are most common in early and later ages in life, but imbalances can happen at any age.

• The slow decline of hormones as men age causes symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, soft erections, low libido, weight gain, and inability to build muscle.

Hormones are extremely potent substances; it only takes a very small amount to initiate an action. They are secreted into the bloodstream by the glands and then enter cells through “receptor” sites. Once inside, they get to work, flipping the switches that govern growth, development, and mental and physical functions throughout life.

When your hormones become unbalanced due to physical/emotional stress or the

I CAN HELP YOU HEAL SPECIAL ATTENTION to chronic and difficult cases including those with “PESS” (physio-emotional spiritual stress)* *See article in November 2010 issue at naturalnutmeg.com Dr. Francis X. Tortora Chiropractor, Board Certified Craniopath 22 Fifth St., Ste. 208, Stamford, Ct. 06905 (203) 348-0678 • www.chirodirectory.com 14

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effects of aging, hormone functions become disrupted. Signals do not reach the right place at the right time. On occasion, cell functions shut down completely. In other cases, cells are over stimulated. All this chaos causes unpleasant symptoms, at the very least. In severe situations, these imbalances can lead to chronic disorders or disease.

To maintain the intricate systems in which hormones operate, the body must constantly fine-tune hormone release in order to keep levels within proper limits – much like an orchestra keeps music in tune. This balance is accomplished through an intricate series of positive and negative feedback mechanisms. For example, an overproduction of one hormone usually prompts the release of one or more complementary hormones in an effort to restore balance. Because of the complexity of these interactions, a hormonal issue rarely stems from only one type; more often, the problem involves a series of hormones. In addition, a disruption in the balance of hormones produced by one gland or set of glands can cause other gland systems to malfunction.

How do you know if you have a hormonal imbalance: Since fat cells manufacture estrogen (a powerful hormone), it is crucial for men to maintain normal weight to have balanced sex hormones. Excess fat can lead to an excess of estrogen in men. When you see a man with a beer belly and breast-buds (female-like development of breasts), he probably has an estrogen excess made by fat cells. This may be the reason that overweight and obese men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). In males, higher levels of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone derived from testosterone, is associated with BPH and possibly prostate cancer; increased levels of estrogen also appears to play a role in the development of BPH. Other non-sex-hormone factors can create imbalances in the sex hormones. An excess or deficiency of the thyroid hormone will change sex hormone levels; replacing the sex hormone in any quantity will not correct the problem until you have compensated for the thyroid function. Changes in liver function can also cause a shift in the relative amounts of various hormones, because the liver pro-

cesses most sex hormones. Many menopausal-aged people, both men and women, still have normal or even high levels of the circulating sex hormones. Additional mammalian hormones in this instance are inadvisable, because they can create an excess of hormones with the associated problems. Faulty liver function, as evidenced by high cholesterol levels, contributes to inadequate transformation of hormones. Improving liver function is a key step in normalizing hormones and the body’s response to hormones (it is possible to have adequate hormone levels and still have symptoms of deficiency or excess if the liver is not working properly).

Remember that overall good health is critical to the body’s production of hormones.

Inadequate nutrients from diet is a major factor in hormonal imbalance. Excess alcohol, refined carbohydrates (sugars), and “trans” fats will all have a negative effect on hormone levels.

When we suspect a hormonal imbalance: When you suspect a hormonal imbalance, I recommend blood tests and/or salivary hormone tests which often reveal what may be happening. Without laboratory testing, it is difficult to know exactly which hormones are out of balance and by how much. The conventional approach involves potent hormone injections, and, therefore, is an extreme approach. If you are interested in preventing age-related changes that occur with diminished sex hormones, then specialized laboratory testing is advised. Make sure that you consult a professional. We have many cases where inappropriate hormone replacement was given without proper testing by wellmeaning practitioners.

Fixing hormones is based on the findings – then a unique protocol of natural supplements, herbs, nutrition, acupuncture, and/ or allergy elimination can often remedy the condition and create profound improvements in health. Even though most natural hormone balancing supplements are safe, professional guidance and monitoring is suggested in order to make sure the right treatment is being given at the right time in the right dose.

Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, L.Ac, is the Integrative Chinese Medical Director of SOPHIA Natural Health Center in Brookfield, CT. He holds acupuncture licensure in both Connecticut and Rhode Island, as well as national certifications in Oriental Medicine and Chinese Herbology.

While his background is varied, the core of his approach to medicine is to bridge the ancient traditions of healing with modern medicine to provide each of his patients with individual care in a way that engages innate healing abilities with proven science. See ad on page 26.

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15

“Secret” Solutions for Crohn’s and Colitis

By Vicki Kobliner, MS RD, CD-N

C

rohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis are chronic inflammatory conditions of the intestinal tract and together are known as Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD).

Symptoms can be mild, with only intermittent episodes, or can be chronic and recurrent. Severe cases are characterized by abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and weight loss and can be not only debilitating, but life threatening.

The disorders are usually identified in people in their teens and twenties but the incidence of IBD in children is escalating rapidly, although no one is sure why this is so.

IBD is common in the United States, England and Northern Europe, and rare in Eastern Europe, Asia and South America.

This may be a factor of genetics, lifestyle, environment or a combination of these.

Traditional management includes treatment of symptoms with drugs that reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system, but there is no medical cure. These medications can have serious side effects, especially when taken long term, so research on safer and more effective options is ongoing. Sur-

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prisingly, safe and effective options do exist, which are rarely discussed or offered to patients at a typical doctor’s visit, but which can be very successful when implemented properly.

Probiotics and Prebiotics Probiotics are the good bacteria that reside in our intestinal tract, and are essential for normal digestive, immune and brain function. Alterations in the balance of this desirable bacteria and pathogenic strains is very common in IBD, causing frequent loose bowels among other symptoms. A few specific strains of these microbes have been shown to be effective at reducing IBD symptoms. One type of bacteria, Lactobacillus GG, has been shown to increase the immune response and improve the mucosal barrier in Crohn’s patients. Another bacteria, Nissle strain E. Coli (not the dangerous type known for food poisoning), can reduce the growth of pathogenic bacteria. In one study, patients taking E. Coli Nissle in conjunction

with medication had a relapse rate almost half as frequent as those on medication alone. Another microbe, Saccharomyces Boulardii, is a type of yeast which is very effective at treating and preventing diarrhea in Crohn’s patients. It is considered a prebiotic because it feeds the good bacteria and supports normal digestive and immune functions. Anyone suffering from IBD should make probiotics an important part of their regimen.

Specific Carbohydrate Diet When Elaine Gottschall’s daughter Judy was just a child, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease so severe that she was in constant pain, with daily episodes of bloody diarrhea, and as a result was so malnourished that the disease was affecting her brain. On the verge of agreeing to a total colostomy for the suffering 7 year old, Elaine was referred to Dr. Sidney Haas who put her daughter on a special diet he had devised.

In less than two weeks Judy’s neurologic problems resolved and her bowels began to improve. After two years on the diet she was free from Crohn’s disease and her mother had found a new calling.

Elaine returned to graduate school to study nutrition and biochemistry and in 1987 authored a book about Dr. Haas’ diet called Food and the Gut Reaction. The title was later changed to Breaking the Vicious Cycle and described the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD). It has sold more than a million copies and turned Elaine (who passed away in 2005) into somewhat of a cult hero in the Crohn’s/Ulcerative Colitis community.

It would seem that a diet this effective would be adopted by all IBD sufferers, but there are a number of reasons this is not the case. SCD is essentially a diet free of starches, and is comprised predominantly of animal protein, vegetables and fruits, and a small amount of nuts and beans which are added slowly and in limited quantities. Absolutely no additives or fillers can be eaten so most food must be homemade. The diet is implemented in clearly defined stages, with only a handful of foods allowed in the very first weeks, and more and more foods slowly

Guiding You Since 1956 added back in over time. It can be time consuming and socially challenging to follow such a regimen. On the positive side, SCD can heal the gut, ultimately allowing for a much wider variety of foods, and the reintroduction of many that previously caused symptoms.

Constant pain and discomfort can be reduced or eradicated, and the social limitations of chronic bowel distress disappear. As some SCDers state “more time in the kitchen and less in the bathroom.”

Despite its food limitations, when done correctly, SCD can be very nourishing, as it includes nutrient-dense foods instead of commonly eaten processed items, while also increasing nutrient absorption. The diet is an excellent weapon in the IBD arsenal, but should only be implemented under the care of a knowledgeable nutrition professional well versed in the SCD protocol.

Mediator Release Testing (LEAP) Research shows that symptoms of IBD can be caused by an immune system response to specific foods or chemicals, when “mediators” are released which cause pain and inflammation in the intestines. By identifying the trigger foods and chemicals, and removing them, symptoms of IBD can be reduced or completely resolved. The MRT tests for reactivity to 150 foods, and based on the results, an individualized 6 Phase LEAP (Lifestyle, Eating and Performance) diet protocol is developed, which incorporates only the least reactive foods at first, slowly adding progressively more reactive foods as tolerated. This protocol allows the intestines to rest, reduces the inflammatory onslaught, and promotes healing of the gut lining. Many people experience at least a 50% reduction in symptoms while some achieve complete resolution. As with SCD, the removal of trigger foods and the reduction of gut inflammation can result in a profound improvement in IBD symptoms both in conjunction with, or instead of, medication.

Any and all of these options can be incorporated into the health plan of a Crohn’s or Colitis sufferer, and they can be effective in conjunction with or often instead of medication. To fully serve the needs of IBD patients, and offer every opportunity to healing, these choices should always be considered.

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Vicki Kobliner MS RD, CD-N is a Registered Dietitian and owner of Holcare Nutrition (www.holcarenutrition.com). Vicki works with infants, children and adults with digestive disorders, food allergies, ADHD, autism and other chronic illness, and provides fertility and prenatal nutrition counseling. Vicki has extensive experience in using dietary modification, appropriate supplementation and functional lab testing to achieve optimal wellness. She can be reached at 203.834.9949 or vicki@holcarenutrition.com. See ad page 19.

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17

The Anti-Radiation Diet: A Sign of the Times?

By Debra Anastasio, ND

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irst of all, let me say that my heartfelt prayers go out to all of those affected by the ravaging effects of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. In the weeks after the initial shock, we now realize it is time to get practical about managing any potential radiation exposure that is raining down on us now or coming our way in the future. So far we are being told that this fallout exposure is less than our typical background radiation levels. Do you even know what those exposures are, that there are different types of radiation, and they do not all carry the same risk? I will walk you through the basics so that in the end you can adopt a protective diet and develop a sense of peace regarding any radiation exposure, especially during these trying times.

Government agencies determined that an annual exposure dose of more than 100 milliSeverts (mSv) increases your risk of developing cancer. Do you know what your number is? According to the World Nuclear Association, exposure levels are as follows: flying on an airplane (0.04 mSv NY to LA), cell phones (according to one British study, as much as 99 mSv/hr with measurable exposure up to 2 meters away from the device!!!), dental x-rays (0.005 mSv), x-rays (chest 0.1 mSv), mammogram (0.3 mSv), CT Scan (abdominal, 14 mSv), living within 50 miles of nuclear power (0.01 mSv annually), and tobacco smoke (0.08 mSv 1 ½ packs per day). Rocks, vegetables, fruits, MRI contrast, thyroid scans, television/electronics use, radon, and microwaves are other sources as well.

Basement radon and microwave ovens are two common, everyday radiation sources that you do have control over. Test for radon in your basement and, if detected, use abatement measures to eliminate the risk.

Microwave radiation also can be eliminated. Radiation leakage is caused by slamming the door, accumulated food particles and basic wear and tear. According to a survey conducted by the Professional Service Associates, more than 56% of the microwave ovens over two years old leak radiation at a level of 10% higher than the safety standards set by the FDA. According to Pro-Lab, “the FDA warns that microwave radiation can cause cataracts, skin cancer, dizziness, headaches, blood disorders, increased stress, birth defects, central nervous system damage, temporary male sterility, cardiovascular problems, and interference with some pacemakers.” You can test your microwave for leakage using “The Detecto Card” by Pro-Lab, or better yet, get rid of it because there are healthier ways to prepare food!

American scientists have evaluated low-dose, man-made sources of radiation and have deemed them safe as compared to Mother Nature’s sources, such as sunlight and living altitude (i.e. Denver, Colorado 0.5 mSv annually) as a potential threat to humans. However, according to Duke University, “Any amount of radiation can be dangerous because of the potential effect that it has on living cells. Radiation can disrupt normal chemical processes of the cells, causing them to grow abnormally or to die. Cells that are altered by the radiation may go on to produce more abnormal cells - a process that could eventually lead to cancer.Any cells that die due to exposure can be replaced by the body. If one receives a

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very high dose, unlike any exposure mentioned here, the cells may not be able to be replaced fast enough and tissues or organs may fail to function properly.” If you want to test your ability to repair cellular damage, I have patients conduct the “Oxi-Stress” Test to detect oxidative damage and evaluate the need for increased antioxidant therapies.

Nuclear plant fallout mainly contains Iodine 131 (I-131), cesium 137 (C-137) and strontium 90 (S-90) and possibly plutonium, which can last in our environment for years to come. The cancer risk is highest for those closest to the radiation leak; it becomes weaker with distance and time; but this risk may not go away as fast as people would like!

So, how are you going to know radiation is coming at you too fast? Plain and simple, most of you won’t! If you want to wear a personal radiation meter, they are available . . . otherwise you have to rely on the choices you make in your lifestyle. Besides reducing your exposure, choose foods that will protect and/or repair your tissues from the damaging effects of radiation exposure. One of the first books I read on this subject was from 1993, “Diet for the Atomic Age,” by Sara Shannon. She gives a very detailed account of our radiation exposure in the environment, specifically for Connecticut and Long Island Sound as it relates to nuclear power plants and the damaging effects it has had on people living near those areas. She goes on to outline what was learned from the major nuclear accidents regarding food as a possible “medicine” for the exposure. Much of what I have to say here is based on her accounts of what has worked, based on the history of Chernobyl and Nagasaki as well as nutrition and human biochemistry.

• Potassium blocks the uptake of C-137, and the iodide form of potassium specifically protects the thyroid from I-131. A downloadable PDF called “Guidance: Potassium Iodide as a Thyroid Blocking Agent” is available from www.fda.gov. It provides specific doses for children and adults and appropriate use of potassium iodide. Dark leafy greens including parsley and dandelion leaf are a rich dietary source of potassium and should be included in the diet. Supplemental potassium should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional because of the powerful effect it has on the body.

• Oats and soybeans contain phytates that bind with radioactive substances for elimination from our bodies (1980 National Council on Radiation Protection). The most beneficial soy foods are the fermented forms which include tofu, tempeh, miso and tamari.

• Brown rice and miso protected survivors of both the Nagasaki and Chernobyl radiation disasters. Unfermented miso that is made with warm (not hot) water is most beneficial. Miso is prepared as a broth: use 1-3 teaspoons plus a cup of very warm water to maintain its benefit. I make miso broth with seaweed, fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms, fresh garlic, fresh ginger root, raw honey, fresh lemon juice, and scallions for a nice immune soup for colds, flu, and general immune support.

• Kelp, a form of seaweed, contains Iodine-127 that specifically prevents the absorption of I-131 and protects the thyroid gland. Seaweed naturally contains sodium alginate which binds with C-137, virtually protecting you against the two radioactive isotopes from nuclear power plants. You can use Kelp granules, crush kelp leaf into soups, or add Bragg’s Organic Sea Kelp Delight Seasoning or Herbamare Organic Herb Seasoning Salt to food for added convenience and to hide the flavor if it is too strong for some of you.

• Rosemary herb contains carnosic and rosmarinic acids that deter radiation poisoning.

(British Journal of Radiology). Rosemary can be added to roasted vegetables, soups, and cold vegetable salads, and can easily be grown as part of your kitchen herb garden right outside your door.

• Red wine & resveratrol have been shown to protect against the damaging effects of radiation (2008, University of Pittsburg School of Medicine). Pinot Noir that has the highest level of resveratrol is grown in cold damp regions such as the Finger Lakes of NY, Willamette Valley of Oregon or Carneros and is unfiltered to retain its beneficial levels of resveratrol.

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• Calcium helps block strontium-90 uptake.

Taking 800-1200 mg daily in supplement form (not the carbonate form) plus dark leafy greens, almonds, and broccoli can help deliver adequate amounts for protection. With milk supplies being affected by fallout, and calcium being tightly bound to phosphorus in milk, dairy is not necessarily the best route for calcium intake.

• Iron helps to block the uptake of plutonium.

This is especially important for pregnant, lactating and menstruating women and all children.

Millet, oats, beans, seaweed, dark leafy greens, red meat, beets, and organic blackstrap molasses are good sources, in addition to an age appropriate multivitamin with Iron. Simply start by including these foods in your daily diet as a protective measure against potential radiation exposure. Adequate zinc, selenium, and vitamins A & C also are necessary to protect against other forms of radiation. In addition, you can take a vitamin antioxidant blend for cell protection and a supplemental botanical extract blend for tissue repair.

Dr. Debra Anastasio, a Naturopathic Physician practicing in Cheshire, CT, is a natural- health author and motivational speaker. For more information and to “Connect with Dr. A”, go to www.drdebraanastasio.com. See ad on page 15.

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Optimizing Athletic Performance Identifying and correcting shortcomings for runners and cyclists

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very sport creates areas of strength and areas of imbalance and weakness for the athlete. This is mainly due to a select group of muscles working repetitively, depending on the sport or activity. Many times, these imbalances impede the athlete’s performance and can also cause injury. While many people are committed to their gym and training routines, most are not exactly sure what will benefit them the most. In this article, we identify specific syndromes for runners and cyclists. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a competitive runner/cyclist, understanding and correcting these issues will help you have your best season yet!

Runners 1. Weak Hip Flexors Low back pain can be common with runners. The main reason is weak psoas muscles (hip flexors). The psoas is nicknamed “the runner’s muscle”, and a long, powerful running stride is contingent upon the psoas muscles firing properly. When the psoas is weak, the quadratus lumborum (QL) and hip adductors are compensating and overworking, causing the spine to lack neutrality.

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do These First) Low back muscles (QL): In a seated position, with the back tall, reach the left arm up to the sky and lean to the right, making sure to keep both cheeks planted on the chair, holding for 30 seconds. Repeat on opposite side.

Hip adductors: Sit on the floor with legs spread as far apart as possible, without bending knees. Keep the back straight and lean forward. Hold for 30 seconds.

4WHAT TO DO NEXT? Lay on the floor on your back with the left knee bent. Rotate the bent leg outward to a 45 degree angle. Slowly raise the leg off the ground until the knee is directly above and in line with the hip. Do 2-3 sets of 12-15 repetitions. An advanced progression of this exercise is to add a 5 lb. ankle weight. See Figure 1.

2. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) An overworked IT band is more common among distance runners.

The IT band is a thick band of fibrous tissue that connects at the top of the iliac crest and Tensor Fascia Latae (TFL). It then runs down the outside of the thigh and inserts into the outer surface of the Tibia (shin

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bone). When the TFL is overworked, it causes the IT band to shorten, which can cause hip and knee problems and can also adversely affect running performance. An overworked TFL many times compensates for a weak psoas and weak gluteals.

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do This First) Stretch the TFL by lying on your back with legs long and arms out to the sides in a “T” position. Extend the involved leg up toward the ceiling and let that leg drop ACROSS your body toward the floor. Your upper body stays on the floor, as you are rotating from the waist. Hold for 30 seconds. To enhance the stretch, press down on that leg just above the knee as you stretch, bringing it closer to the floor.

4WHAT TO DO NEXT? Strengthen the psoas muscle as previously described. For the gluteal muscle, kneel on the floor and place hands or elbows/forearms on the floor. Extend the right leg out so the knee is straight and the leg is parallel with the floor. Rotate the leg outward from the hip. Contract the glute and raise the leg up higher without hyper extending your low back. Do 2-3 sets of 12-15 repetitions. An advanced progression of this exercise is to add a 5 lb. ankle weight. See Figure 2.

3. Plantar fasciitis The main culprit of plantar fasciitis is a tight calf muscle. Many runners have tight calf muscles without any pain at all, and their performance can be impacted as a result. Often, the tight calf muscles are compensating for weak gluteals or low back muscles.

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do This First) Calf Stretch: Stand facing a wall. Place the ball/toes of your left foot on the wall and the heel on the floor, keeping the leg straight. To in-

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do This First)

crease the stretch, push off with the right foot.

Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat for right leg.

Stretch the piriformis: Lay on your back with both knees bent, and rest your left ankle above your right knee. Grab your right knee and slowly pull your leg toward your chest.

Hold for 30 seconds. See Figure 3.

4WHAT TO DO NEXT? Strengthen the gluteals as previously described. For the low back, lie down with your stomach to the floor, keeping your arms and hands flat at your sides and legs extended like in a standing position, but lying down.

Slowly raise yourself up from your torso (using your lower back muscles) as far as you can go but do not over-extend yourself (about a 45 degree angle). Remember to tighten your buttocks when lifting yourself from the ground and concentrate on working the lower back.

Hold this position for about 3 seconds. Slowly lower yourself back to the floor in the same manner.

Cyclists

4WHAT TO DO NEXT?

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

1. Over-developed quadriceps (quads) Cyclists are notorious for having very tight quads, which are the primary muscle group involved in cycling. Tight muscles do not perform nearly as well as elastic muscles, so keeping them flexible is essential for maximizing your wattage output. Many times, the tight quads are usually compensating for weak gluteals.

Lay on your left side with your bottom leg completely straight with the body, and the knee fully extended. Cross your right leg over your left and place your foot flat on the floor in front of you. Then lift your straight leg up about 8-12 inches, pause, then lower. Do 2-3 sets of 10-12 repetitions. See Figure 4.

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Figure 3.

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do This First) Quad Stretch: Lie on your side and rest your head on one hand. Keep your knees together and gently pull your right heel towards the buttocks until a stretch is felt in the front thigh (quads). Hold for 30 seconds.

4 WHAT TO DO NEXT?

Figure 4.

Perform gluteal exercise as previously described.

4WHAT TO DO NEXT?

2. Imbalanced quad muscles Many cyclists have an overdeveloped vastus lateralis, or lateral quad muscle, which is compensating for a weak vastus medialis or medial quad muscle. This usually results in a pedal stroke that lacks fluidity and proper alignment of the hip, knee and ankle. The patella does not track straight as a result, which can result in chronic knee pain and cartilage damage.

4WHAT TO STRETCH? (Do This First) Massage the outer part of the quad (vastus lateralis) using your hands or use a foam roller.

Strengthen the vastus medialis: Standing, rotate the left leg outward from the hip and stand with all your weight on it. Your toes should be pointing out. Perform a single leg squat. You should feel the vastus medialis working if done properly. Do 2-3 sets of 1012 repetitions.

3. Weak adductors A strong pedal stroke requires the cyclist to keep the legs in during pedal movement, just brushing the top tube of the bike with the inner thighs. This requires strong adductors, which on many cyclists are weak because of tight piriformis muscles.

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21

Toxic World Part 2: The Scary Statistics

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y previous article on toxicity (The Scary Statistics, March 2011) reviewed some horrifying information about the prevalence of toxins in our environment and the damage they can cause. This second section of the article provides more information about the copious amounts of easily accessed poisons, and what you can do to avoid them.

Phthalates are common toxins. These synthetic chemicals are primarily a part of plastic production. Phthalates give plastic flexibility and resilience. Unfortunately, they are NOT chemically bound to the plastics, so they easily release into the environment and get into you. Heat is a common cause of their release from plastic. Have you ever left your water bottle in the car in the summer?

Doesn’t it taste funny, almost slimy? That’s the taste of phthalates. When you microwave

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in plastic containers, or plastic baby bottles, does your food taste different? That’s the phthalates.

These toxic substances also are in adhesives, detergents, flooring, raincoats, cleaning products, food packaging, household furnishings, cosmetics, shampoos, fragrances, plastic bags, children’s toys, pharmaceuticals, and garden hoses. They are in plastic wrap, poultry and eggs, hair gels, tomatoes, potatoes, and because they’re so ubiquitous, you can find them in house dust!

While phthalates are rapidly cleared from the body (in healthy people, they usually leave within 24 hours), they do cause damage when we are constantly exposed to them on a daily basis. Phthalates cause infertility, reduce sperm motility, cause uterine fibroids and endometriosis, and increase the risk of breast cancer.

A study done in 295 children born in New York City found that the higher the phthalate levels in the mother, the lower the quality of alertness in their children. Another study revealed that children with the most exposure to prenatal phthalates had the most aggression, attention problems, depression, and emotional control. Phthalates also cause weight gain, as the most recent NHANES study showed men with phthalates had increased waist circumference and increased insulin resistance, which leads to diabetes.

So what can you do to stop it all? A simple 5-day vegetarian diet, using no cosmetics, and the most natural of personal cleaning products can drop levels of phthalates significantly. Permanently change your plastic water bottles to glass bottles from a filtered tap. Reverse osmosis is one of the best water filtration systems, but you also get

what you pay for. Pick up a copy of the book, “Slow Death by Rubber Duck” by Rick Smith and Bruce Lourie. Avoid indoor air when you are off-gassing new carpets and new furniture. Check for mold in your house. Get air filters with MERV7 or higher, such as IQ Air or Blue Air. Supplementation for detoxification should be supervised by a naturopathic physician or other medical expert in detoxification.

Add cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onion, green tea, and Chlorella to your diet. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll feel better!

Dr. Jared Skowron is a DAN! (Defeat Autism Now) certified doctor and author. His practice specializes in treating kids on the autism spectrum to help them speak, sleep, socialize, and mainstream into school. More information and insurance coverage on his website, www.NaturopathicAnswer.com. See ad on page 13.

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23

supplements 101

Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S. Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.)

When They Say There’s No Hope: Nutritional Approaches to Autoimmune Diseases Autoimmune diseases tend to be viewed as separate entities. A broader perspective, however, may reveal that shared mechanisms are the cause of disease, rather than just its byproduct. If this perspective were applied, patients would benefit from improved therapies and early intervention, before the development of irreversible tissue damage. ~ “Autoimmune Diseases,” Life Extension®, www.lef.org

R

heumatoid arthritis (RA), celiac, IBD/Crohn’s, psoriasis, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis (MS), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, lupus, scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome . . . what do these conditions have in common?

They are all autoimmune diseases (ADs). Conservatives maintain that there is no known means of preventing or reversing such disorders.

According to alternative medicine experts, however, a solid, longterm nutritional foundation, coupled with lifestyle modification, can alleviate or even reverse autoimmune dysfunction and help combat fully developed autoimmune diseases.

Definition, Symptoms & Risk Factors of ADs A healthy immune system can differentiate between “self” and “non-self” tissues. The immune system thus normally produces antibodies to protect the body from potentially harmful foreign substances (antigens) like environmental toxins, blood or tissue from other organisms, and microorganisms. In a process called phagocytosis, specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes recognize, engulf, and destroy specific antigens. Although the body has some defective lymphocytes that are sensitized against “self” tissue cells, other lymphocytes suppress them.

In the presence of an AD, the body cannot destroy the defective lymphocytes, which causes the destruction/decreased function or enlargement of one or more organs, tissues, or entire systems. The location and extent of the resulting inflammation dictates the type and severity of the AD. While the more than 80 autoimmune disorders all have unique symptoms, nonspecific symptoms often include fatigue, dizziness, general feeling of discomfort, and fever. Although diagnosing a specific AD can be difficult or sometimes impossible, certain reliable lab tests can turn up helpful abnormalities. These include: tests for the inflammation biomarker C-reactive protein (CRP) (optimal ranges: men < 0.55 mg/L, women < 1.5 mg/L), which are often followed with disease-specific diagnostic tests; the fluorescent antinuclear antibody test (FANA); and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test (non-diagnostic; detects/monitors tissue death and ADs that present vague/minimal physical symptoms).

There are several risk factors for ADs, only some of which can be controlled. Certain individuals have a genetic predisposition to ADs, which are usually associated with more than one gene. Often due to hormonal imbalances (including those attendant to pregnancy), women generally are more likely to develop ADs than men (an estimated 75% of all AD patients).

Aging is recognized as a key factor that often presents long-term exposure to various environmental toxins (e.g., heavy metals, auto 24

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exhaust, pesticides, cigarette smoke) that cause cell and protein damage. Viral or bacterial invaders trigger or worsen many ADs. Leaky gut syndrome, chronic stress, and lifestyle choices also play a significant role.

Limited Conventional Treatments Traditional physicians most frequently treat ADs with immunosuppressive drugs and/or anti-inflammatories, which can provide some relief but do not address underlying causes. They prescribe immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, azathioprine) and corticosteroids to reduce the immune response against normal body tissue but seek to leave intact the immune response against abnormal tissues and foreign microorganisms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDSMotrin, Advil) relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

According to Joel Fuhrman, M.D., author of “Eat to Live”, drugs prescribed for ADs are extremely toxic and have many risky side effects. Dr. Fuhrman further maintains that drugs actually often contribute to the AD patient’s “disability and misery” and increase cancer risk. Studies show that the long-term outcome is poor after 20 years of drug reliance. For example, one study in the British Journal of Rheumatology showed the major drugs prescribed for RA, such as azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, and methotrexate, increase the likelihood that the person will die of cancer. Such evidence clearly supports Dr. Fuhrman’s view that the dietary approach to ADs should be tried first.

A 5-Pronged Natural Approach

The 5-pronged natural approach to ADs requires: (1) reducing inflammation and pain; (2) slowing damage to healthy proteins; (3) reducing free-radical/oxidative cell damage; (4) modulating the immune system; and (5) improving the liver. Supporting the GI tract and reducing stress are also important considerations.

Inflammation & Pain / EFAs, Curcumin, Colostrum Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are wellestablished natural anti-inflammatories. The correct doses of EPA and DHA, ideally from fish oil, produce anti-inflammatory, immunesupporting, hormone-like prostaglandins (PGE1 and PGE3). EPA has been shown to inhibit the cytokine TNF-a in resolving RA. GLA from a professionally recommended, high-quality source (including evening primrose oil), in the right ratio to omega-3 fatty acids, is an omega-6 fatty acid that effectively converts to PGE1. All other omega-6 fatty acid sources (including safflower, peanut, sesame, and almond oils) should be excluded from the AD patient’s diet.

Curcumin is a polyphenol in turmeric. Studies indicate that this herb (especially in the highly bioavailable form of patent-pending BCM95) safely combats inflammation and pain principally by inhibiting the cytokine NF-kappaB, a protein complex that acts like

a switch to turn on the genes that produce the body’s inflammatory responses, especially in ADs. Curcumin also reduces inflammation by inhibiting other cytokines and COX-2 and 5-LOX activity. Recent studies have shown that this nutrient specifically ameliorates MS, RA, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Colostrum, a form of mammalian breast milk produced in late pregnancy, is abundant in antibodies and helps form the “good” bacteria (Bifidus flora) in the GI tract. It contains lactoferrin, which inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a and IL1-b). Its component colostrinin helps tone down the overactive immune response in ADs. Various growth factors in colostrum can help reverse protein breakdown and stimulate skin cell and tissue repair.

Protecting Healthy Proteins / L-Carnosine As we age, sugar molecules attach to proteins (which compose 50% of the human body) and convert them to “glycated” proteins that the immune system cannot recognize. Since removal of these damaged proteins declines with age, slowing protein glycation can help reduce autoimmune reactions. L-carnosine inhibits glycation and can suppress autoimmune response.

Modulating the Immune System Vitamin D & Acetyl L-Carnitine A study published in Genome Research by an Oxford University genetic researcher presented biologic evidence that Vitamin D regulates genes involved in ADs and cancer. Vitamin D curbs the body’s incorrect regulation of NF-kappaB, without immunosuppressive side effects.

The dangerous fats of the standard American diet decrease cellular energy and thus impair the immune function. L-carnitine reduces such impairment by enhancing the transport of fatty acids into the cell’s mitochondria for the production of energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine is the most effective form of this amino acid.

Improving the Liver - Milk Thistle Since the liver plays a major role in purifying and eliminating waste products, drugs, and toxins, supporting its function can im-

Reducing Cell Damage /Antioxidants Antioxidants destroy or neutralize free radicals in order to protect cells from oxidative damage. The most effective antioxidants include vitamins C, E (ideally taken together) and A, astaxanthin (500 times stronger than vitamin E), Coenzyme Q10/ubiquinol, and selenium (as selenomethionine).

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prove a variety of disease states. Two of milk thistle’s active components, silymarin and silibinin, can be instrumental in promoting a healthy liver and stimulating its regenerative ability.

Diet & Lifestyle Changes Unhealthy lifestyle choices, including poor diet, inadequate sleep, and smoking greatly impact the management of ADs. A “healthy diet” in this context excludes saturated, hydrogenated, and trans fats (beef, pork, lamb, or duck), gluten, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, MSG, and sugar/simple carbohydrates. (All sugars impair the antigendestroying ability of lymphocytes, starting within 30 minutes from consumption and continuing for 5 hours; after 2 hours, sugar intake reduces immune function by 50%. A healthy AD diet should include fish, chicken, turkey, and as many raw foods as possible, such as low-sugar fruits (berries and apples), almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, legumes, and a large variety of dark green and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts).

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Reducing stress through psychological counseling, yoga, meditation, and proper sleep management may provide relief.

Proper chiropractic care, acupuncture, deep pressure massage, light therapy, and avoiding cigarette smoke and extreme temperatures, can also be helpful.

Conclusion With proper guidance from an experienced alternative healthcare practitioner, nutritional supplements, diet, and healthy lifestyle changes can together strengthen the immune system and thus greatly improve the symptoms of ADs. It is critical not only to take the right supplements, but also the right doses for an adequate time period, and to make a lifetime commitment to healthy dietary and lifestyle habits.

Submitted by Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S., a Registered Pharmacist and State Certified Clinical Nutritionist, with Erika Dworkin, Dip.C.N./Board Cert. Holistic Nutrition (pending). Owners of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe, 378 West Middle Turnpike, Manchester, CT. Pharmacist Dworkin has been guiding patients since 1956 and is available for consultation by appointment.

Erika is available to speak to groups. References are available upon request at info@ cthealthshop.com. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to take the place of the advice of a physician. None of the natural remedies discussed herein are intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See our ad on page 17.

Healthy Self

Dr. Lauren Gouin, N.D.

Treating the Cause of Kidney Stones

E

ach year almost three million people will visit their doctor and more than half a million will go to the emergency room for the distinct severe flank pain associated with kidney stones. Most kidney stones pass through the body on their own, which means that the conventional treatment is medication for the pain and time. If the stone is too large to pass or if a fever starts, individuals should seek medical care immediately. Once an individual has had a kidney stone, they are more at risk for reoccurrence of them. Ways to reduce risk of kidney stones and prevention varies from person to person, but also kidney stone to kidney stone.

Not All Stones are Created Equal There are multiple types of kidney stones, and each requires a different approach to prevention. People should only make dietary changes for the type of kidney stone they are at risk to make. For example, if you make uric acid stones, there is no benefit to avoiding oxalate foods.

Calcium oxalate stones are the most common kind of stone, making up an estimated eighty-five percent of all kidney stones.

These stones occur when urine has a low pH or is more acidic. Prevention of these stones includes consideration of dietary sources of oxalate and components to formation.

Foods high in oxalates should be avoided by people who have had these types of kidney stones. People often think of cranberry juice to help prevent urinary tract infections, however, along with grapefruit juice, cranberry juice may increase production of calcium oxalate stones, due to the oxalate content.

Other foods that contain oxalates are rhubarb, spinach, wheat germ, peanuts, okra, chocolate and sweet potatoes.

Only if a person is susceptible to calcium oxalate stones should these types of foods be avoided, because for most people leafy green vegetables and other whole foods high in oxalate can be very beneficial. Some Vitamin C supplements can also be a source of oxalates, and should be limited by people who have calcium oxalate stones.

The kidneys are responsible for clearing excess calcium out of the body, and if there is an increase in calcium in the urine, there is an increased risk of calcium oxalate formation. Excessively elevated Vitamin D levels, hormone imbalance and increase in calcium

absorption, such as from excessive supplementation, can lead to kidney stone formation. Calcium from the diet does not contribute to kidney stone formation, and individuals who are at risk for these stones should get 800 mg of calcium in their diet daily. Also, prolonged inactivity can lead to elevated calcium excretion and kidney stone formation, which is a common concern for astronauts!

Calcium phosphate stones are much less common than their calcium oxalate brothers, and typically occur with very alkaline urine, instead of acidic. Another nutrient that should be limited in the diet to prevent excess calcium in the urine is sodium. Sodium will increase the calcium excretion and when phosphorus binds to it in the urine, calcium phosphate stones can form. The best way to limit sodium in the diet is to have a whole food diet, with fewer processed foods, which require salt to be preserved.

Uric acid stones form when there are elevated levels of uric acid in the urine, and make up about ten percent of kidney stones.

High uric acid levels can occur from excessively elevated Vitamin D levels and diets high in purines, which come from animal proteins.

These stones are the only type that can be dissolved with medication or specific nutrients, such as potassium citrate and sodium bicarbonate. Treatment of these stones should be managed with a physician, and medication should not be taken without monitoring urine pH levels.

Struvite stones form from kidney infections. The best way to avoid these types of stones is to prevent kidney infections, however, no specific foods will prevent the stone

formation. Certainly low sugar and whole food diets may aid in infection prevention.

Cystine stones are when cystine concentrates in the urine and forms crystals. The only known cause of these is a rare genetic disorder where specific amino acids leak through the kidneys.

Are you at risk?

Risk factors for kidney stones include dehydration, chronic inflammation or infection, being overweight, or having a family history of kidney stones.

What’s your kidney stone type?

If you have had a kidney stone and/or want to assess your risk, urine tests can evaluate the levels of calcium, sodium, uric acid, oxalate, citrate and other factors of kidney stone formation. This can help a physician assess if you are at risk for a specific type of stone. Some risk factors can be avoided, others cannot, but mindful dietary decisions can certainly help prevent formation of specific kidney stones.

Dr. Lauren Gouin is a board certified naturopathic physician, accepting new patients for her family practice in Manchester, CT. Dr. Gouin is in network with most insurance companies. For an appointment or more information, please call (860)533-0179 or visit www. ctnaturalhealth.com. See ad on page 7.

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377 Hubbard St., Glastonbury, CT • (860) 657-1131 MALC7119@aol.com • www.psychospiritualtherapies.com NaturalNutmeg.com

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Chronic Cancer Pain:

New Hope for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)

By Dr. C. Evers Whyte

Pain is “An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience, associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage.” IASP (International Association for the Study of Pain).

P

ain has an emotional component called suffering. The sensation of pain is unique to each individual and is difficult to measure.

Pain is the most common reason patients seek medical attention.

Approximately 30% of the U.S. population suffers from chronic pain.

Chronic pain affects numerous aspects of quality of life, and people with long-lasting pain experience a multitude of negative physical, psychological, social, and spiritual feelings. A European telephone survey showed that chronic moderate to severe pain occurred in 19% of the adults contacted, seriously affecting daily activities and social and working life. The majority had not received specialist pain treatment, and 40% felt that their pain had been poorly managed. As far as cancer pain is concerned, a recent survey highlighted that 56% of the 5,084 adult patients contacted reported suffering moderate to severe pain on a monthly basis or more often.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) describes the damage to the Peripheral Nervous System (especially the hands and feet) incurred by a patient who has received a chemo-therapeutic drug that is known to be “neuro-toxic” (damaging to the nerves). A common clinical course begins with tingling and burning located in the toes and fingers. These symptoms then spread upwards to affect both legs and arms in a characteristic ’stocking and glove‘ pattern. Patients with pre-existing peripheral neuropathy from another cause, like diabetes, may develop a more severe and persistent CIPN. With the use of many chemotherapy agents, in addition to numbness, tingling, burning/stabbing pain in hands and feet, which can become severe with increased doses, weakness of distal muscles, decreased deep tendon reflexes, and foot drop have been noted with high doses. Blood disorders are also common side effects.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is also a major ‘dose-limiting side effect’ of many commonly used chemotherapy drugs, in other words, the more one takes of the drug(s), the worse the pain gets. And the incidence of CIPN often ranges from 30 to 40% of patients receiving chemotherapy!

A number of factors influence the incidence of CIPN in patients receiving neuro-toxic chemotherapy, including the patient’s age, intensity of the dose one gets, how much one gets (cumulative dose),

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therapy duration, simultaneous administration of other neuro-toxic chemotherapy drugs, and pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and alcohol abuse.

CIPN can be extremely painful and/or disabling, causing significant loss of functional abilities and decreasing quality of life.

Neuro-toxic chemotherapeutic agents may cause structural damage to peripheral nerve cells, resulting in dysfunctional changes in a patient’s sense of touch, heat, cold, balance, vibration, etc. While symptoms may resolve completely, in many instances CIPN is only partly reversible on its own, and in other cases, it has not appeared to be reversible at all. In fact, until recently, there has not been a consistently-effective prevention or therapy, and countless thousands of patients have had to endure permanent, intractable pain as a by-product of their cancer treatment.

New Hope Through a Paradigm Shift What if a therapy could “re-program” the nervous system instead of merely trying to block pain messages at the synapse? The problem in chronic pain is over-excitation in the nerves. What if we could calm them down, and keep them calm, by directly affecting the brain?

Safely. With no side effects. Injured nerves can become over-excited or ’wound-up‘- like your immune system during allergy season. The painsensory system is not just simply a system for the conduction of pain impulses from the periphery to the brain. We now know that ’neuroplastic‘ changes (changes in connections between nerves and the way the brain functions) can take place in the peripheral nervous system, the spinal cord, and also in higher brain centers following injury, inflammation and other toxic events. These changes may increase the magnitude of the perceived pain and may contribute to the development of chronic pain syndromes and increased pain sensitivity. In this case, pain becomes a disorder in and of itself, rather than a symptom of a disease process.

Because of the brilliant research efforts of Dr. Giuseppe Marineo, in Rome, Italy, a revolutionary new pain therapy device was recently cleared for use in the U.S. to treat chronic pain, including CIPN. The Calmare MC-5A Pain Therapy Device helps effect positive neuroplastic changes to counteract (undo) changes that have occurred in the chronic CIPN pain patient. It re-programs the brain.

The Calmare Device (www.calmarett.com) provides non-pain information to the excited pain nerves to ’scramble‘ the effect of pain information. What results is safe, effective, non-invasive relief for patients suffering with severe pain, including oncologic and neuropathic

pain (like CIPN), resistant to morphine and other harmful narcotic painkillers.

The device consists of a computer multiprocessor able to simulate five artificial neurons by the application of surface electrodes on skin overlying the painful areas. The device induces a trans-dermal (through the skin) modulation of pain responses by transmitting low-frequency stimulation to the patient’s nerves using surface electrodes (like an EKG) at each patient’s specific pain areas.

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The new signal is communicated through the skin into the nerves which then reach the spinal cord and up to the brain. The signal is similar to the original pain signal but is now read as pain free. The CNS cannot adapt to the pain free information, and the patient does not become desensitized to it over time. With subsequent treatments, the pain recurs with constantly diminishing intensity until it disappears in a high percentage of cases.

Indications In addition to CIPN, Calmare Therapy effectively treats the following conditions: • Oncologic pain resistant to drug treatment • Phantom Limb Pain • Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRSD) • Post Herpetic Neuropathy • Post-Surgery Nerve Lesion Neuropathy • Pudendal and Pelvic Neuropathy • Brachial Plexus Neuropathy • Trigeminal Neuralgia (Approved in the EU) • Low Back and Sciatic Pain Since 2002 more than 3500 patients have been successfully treated in eleven hospitals.

Well Researched Although this treatment is new to the U.S., its usage is solidly grounded in years of intensive research, clinical trials, and extensive FDA review. It has been in use in Europe for several years and is currently providing thousands of patients with safe, effective ongoing pain relief while avoiding harmful, and even potentially fatal, adverse side effects and addictive properties linked to narcotic painkillers.

Currently, research for CIPN treatment with Calmare Paqin Therapy is ongoing at Virginia Commonwealth University, Mayo Clinic, and The University of Wisconsin, Madison.

Treatment A treatment regimen consists of 10 to 12, 45-minute treatments carried out over consecutive days (as close together as possible). Here NaturalNutmeg.com

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is a chart illustrating the outcome of a 225 subject study, all with various types of chronic pain, including CIPN, treated with Calmare Therapy:

Contraindications The following exclusion criteria are recommended when considering a patient for treatments: Pacemaker or defibulator users; persons with any type of electrical implant used to control pain; patients with epilepsy. It is recommended that patients receiving neuroleptic drugs for pain control (Gabapentin, Lyrica, Neurontin, etc.) plan on decreasing their dose or completely weaning off before Calmare Therapy because those drugs can cause a reduction in the duration of pain relief from Calmare Therapy.

What It Is Not Calmare Pain Relief Therapy is not traction, electrical simulation, TENS, manipulation, acupuncture, hypnosis, biofeedback, drug therapy, or any other type of pain relief treatment currently in use in hospitals or private practice, except in clinics specifically incorporating Calmare Therapy.

In Conclusion Understanding Expectations • The MC-5A Therapy treats alterations in pain perceptions (chronic), and not the organic pathology that generated it • Pain cannot be treated in advance • The MC-5A Therapy produces analgesia (pain relief), not anesthesia (lack of sensation) • Most types of neuropathic pain can be treated to a favorable outcome • “Acute” pain (e.g. from a sprained ankle) is not affected.

• Chronic pain (altered perception) is treated as an independent pathology • Monoradicular pain (involving one nerve) tends to be more readily stabilized, with longer pain-free periods • Pluriradicular pain (involving multiple nerves) requires follow- up treatments every 60-90 days • Oncological pain must be treated with standard protocol and additional treatments when needed

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Calmare Pain Therapy is a revolutionary approach to treat chronic high-intensity neuropathic and oncologic pain, including CIPN. The Calmare platform is proven to be highly effective in the treatment of pain and has long-lasting effects - an important benefit for both physicians and their patients.

Dr. C. Evers Whyte is medical director of The Center for Health Renewal, in Stamford, CT. He is a “Medical Detective” and specializes in helping patients with chronic pain, and with other difficult-to-treat conditions. For more information about Calmare Therapy and Dr. Whyte, please visit: www.MedicalmPainReliefTherapy.com or www.TheCenterForHealthRenewal.com. See ad on page 31.

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know your herbs

Andrea Candee, MH,MSC

Bugs The Natural Way to Keep Them at Bay

B

ugs! Do I respect them as part of Nature’s miraculous design…yes. Do I like them…not really. Despite daily intake of supplements reputed to be bug deterrents (i.e. garlic, B vitamins), many of us are still sweet meat for the little critters.

Acknowledging the skin’s ability to absorb substances into the bloodstream (modern medicine’s example of this biological fact is the invention of skin patches for delivering pharmaceutical drugs into the body) encourages us to seek out natural alternatives to chemical insect repellants.

Ticks and Lyme Disease Dogs and cats are often the carriers of Lyme infected ticks. To fully protect one’s self and family from being bitten, the family pet must also be protected. A successful program for preventing any tick from attaching itself to your pet includes garlic powder and brewers yeast sprinkled liberally on their food every day (found in a convenient powdered combination in health food stores) and oil of eucalyptus. The essential oil of eucalyptus, derived from the leaf of the tree, contains naturally occurring chemicals repellent to ticks and fleas. A most effective method is to dip a thin rope into the undiluted oil, wrap

it in a bandana and tie it around your pet’s neck (fashionable, as well). The rope can be refreshed twice a week or more often, if necessary. The oil is quite potent and should not be applied directly to the skin as it may cause irritation. Mixing 1 oz oil of eucalyptus into 2 cups of water in a spray bottle also enables you to spray your pet’s coat on a daily basis.

But why save all the good protection for your pets? Before gardening or hiking, scent yourself with “eau de eucalyptus.” The oil/water combination can be sprayed on skin and/or clothing before an outdoor excursion, gardening, or romp in the grass. Eucalyptus diluted in a vegetable oil (e.g. almond, sesame, sunflower) can safely be applied to the skin for longer lasting protection.

Mosquitoes and black flies take wing!

Dilute 1 oz essential oil of pennyroyal in 16 ozs vegetable oil to effectively repel mosquitoes. Keep a vial of this dilution with you when headed for a picnic, swing in the hammock or anywhere mosquitoes hang out. Oil of Pennyroyal has protected campers in the swampiest of areas by directly applying the dilution to exposed areas of skin. (Note: you may have difficulty locating oil of pennyroyal.

It can be purchased from the website below.)

Black flies ruining a relaxing day in the park? Check out the surrounding area for aromatic evergreen trees, break off a branch, mash it with a rock and apply to arms and legs. The released essential oils will repel those bothersome bugs. The essential oil of lavender, which CAN be applied directly on the skin, can also repel black flies.

Don’t be the local attraction for stinging insects Bees, wasps, and yellow jackets are attracted by sweet smells and bright colors.

If you don’t want them to think you are a delectable flower to explore, avoid wearing perfumes and scented hair and body-care products, as well as brightly colored clothing.

Neutral colors such as tan and white are least likely to attract unwelcome visitors. Cover sugary food and drink at picnic sites.

The easiest, most non-invasive way to remove embedded stingers or body parts of insects (splinters and thorns, too!) is to tape on an over-ripe banana peel (pulp side facing skin), overnight. The enzymes in the banana will painlessly draw any foreign object to the surface.

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for Practical Spirituality Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am (childcare provided)

Our Ongoing Events

Thought Exchange, Mon at 7 pm A Course in Miracles, Mon & Wed at 10 am A Course in Miracles, Tue at 7 pm Reiki Healing Circle, last Thu at 7 pm Metaphysical Movie Night, 2nd Fri. at 7 pm

Monthly Events

The Thought Exchange Workshop, Sun at 1pm, June 5 Music, Meditation & (possibly) Mayhem, Fri at 7 pm, June 24

Rev. Shawn Moninger 32

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For more information and Special Events, please visit us on the web!

3 Main St, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.unitycenterps.org (203) 855-7922

Our mission: to continually discover, demonstrate and educate that our source of Good is God within.

Our vision: Unity Center for Practical Spirituality is a thriving community which demonstrates the practical value of spiritual principle by living with the confidence that limitless possiblity in all things exists and is available to everyone.

Stopping the itch and swelling

Keeping houseplants bug-free

If you ventured out into the great outdoors without protection and got bitten or stung, safe, non-chemical solutions can prevail. The oil from a vitamin E capsule, punctured with a pin and applied to a bee sting, can relieve pain and swelling. A juicy slice of onion rubbed on or taped into place will relieve the itch and swelling of an insect bite.

The common weed, plantain, when mashed with a rock or chewed to break down its capillary walls (only chew if you are certain it has not been chemically treated) and affixed directly on the affected area, pulls out the toxins of an insect sting or bite and relieves swelling. A paste of baking soda and water or mud and water will calm the area. It all depends upon where you are and what’s available. Usually, what you need is right at hand. You just need to be able to recognize its healing benefits. Keep in mind that more than one application may be necessary so use what is convenient for the moment and follow up a few more times that day with what seems to provide the most comfort.

Infected houseplants often respond well to a strained spray of water blended with a few fresh cloves of garlic. The eucalyptus/water spray described above can also be applied to houseplants.

In centuries past, aromatic herbs were strewn on the floors of homes to repel insects.

Instead, branches of herbs can be hung in doorways, arranged creatively in containers or crumbled into potpourris creating pleasant pest-repellent aromas. Essential oils can waft throughout the home in electric or candle diffusers. Cotton balls infused with essential oils can be strategically placed.

Let us peacefully co-exist with the insect world without polluting ourselves and our fragile environment by using Nature’s bountiful gifts.

House moths, the unwelcome guests Those bothersome moths moved right into your clothes closets and food pantry without invitation - or did you unwittingly invite them? Residues of odors and stains on clothing attract moths to your closets.

Open bags of cereals, grains and flours are comparable to putting out the welcome mat.

The easiest way to deal with the food items is to refrigerate them during summer months.

Clean clothing before storing. Additional protection can be provided by placing muslin bags in your closets filled with combinations of dried, aromatic herbs and essential oils such as tansy, peppermint, rosemary, eucalyptus, cedar, sage, thyme, cinnamon and clove.

Andrea Candee, MH, MSC, is a master herbalist with a practice in Westchester County.

She lectures throughout the country and at corporate wellness centers about taking charge of your health naturally. Media expert and author, her award-winning book, Gentle Healing for Baby and Child (Simon & Schuster), received The National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval. Andrea is noted nationally for her unique and successful approach to Lyme Disease. She may be contacted through her website, AndreaCandee.com (to receive her free e-letter, click on Did You Know?), or at 877 856 7680.

Chiropractic Care Therapeutic Massage Nutrition Counseling

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Chiropractic Can Help!

Call our office today for a complimentary consultation to learn how we can keep you doing what you love.

“Feeling good has never been so simple”

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33

Natural Approaches for Managing Head Injuries

By David Johnston, DO

W

e have all had the unfortunate experience of bumping our heads and seeing stars at least once in our lives. Head trauma, even from minor incidents, can cause a wide range of mental, emotional and physical ailments that may seem unrelated but can, if you look carefully, be traced to specific events. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can have profound negative consequences in many areas of a person’s life, and the impact is not limited to the person suffering the initial injury. Since many sequelae are behavioral, TBI can cause significant suffering for family members, colleagues, and others in a patient’s social circle.

There are a number of rapidly evolving and highly effective therapies for TBI. In my practice, I use hands on Cranial Osteopathic manipulation, nutritional supplementation, and referral for Neurofeedback, depending on each patient’s specific needs. Good therapeutic decisionmaking depends on accurate assessment.

Every 23 Seconds The Centers for Disease Control estimate that a head injury occurs at least once every 23 seconds, translating into approximately 1.5 million incidents yearly. Most researchers believe that number is low; the actual figure may be closer to 3 million each year. The most common causes of TBI are falls, followed by motor vehicle accidents, physical contact from sports injuries, and assaults.

A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and usually involves a temporary loss of brain function that heals itself with time. Most cases of TBI are mild concussions occurring most frequently in young children. Up to five percent of sports injuries are concussions. For unknown reasons, having had one concussion, increases a person’s risk of having another by 50%. Neuroimaging studies like MRI and CT scan normally show no gross or structural changes to the brain, but abnormalities may be seen on SPECT and PET scans, and EEG. Loss of consciousness (usually less than 30 minutes), or amnesia (usually less than 24 hours) may occur with more severe head injuries.

Generally, if you ask patients, “Have you ever had a brain injury?” they will answer, “No.” People tend to forget or minimize the significance of “minor” incidents that did not cause physical damage, loss of consciousness, or hospitalization. If you ask specific and detailed questions, you’ll get a much more accurate picture. I’ve found the following questions very helpful in eliciting good information: • Have you ever been in a car accident?

• Do you ride horses, motorcycles or bicycles?

• Do you play sports? • Do you ski? • Is your work dangerous?

• Have you ever slipped backwards on the ice or in the bathtub?

• Have you ever felt dizzy after falling?

• Were you in the military? If so what was your job?

While headache is the most common physical symptom, others include dizziness, fatigue, pituitary dysfunction, sensory loss or exaggeration, loss of motor control or coordination, bladder and bowel changes, vomiting, nausea, ringing in the ears, blurry vision. Cognitive and emotional symptoms include confusion, disorientation, difficulty focusing attention, insomnia, unexplained anxiety or panic. Common symptoms in children include restlessness, lethargy and irritability.

More severe head injuries may involve emergencies such as hemor-

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rhage. Indications of this may include worsening symptoms such as headache, persistent vomiting, a deteriorating level of consciousness, seizures and unequal pupil size. This is why more severe cases are observed for 24 to 48 hours.

The mechanism of injury usually involves a rapid acceleration and rotational force (getting punched in boxing), that is not absorbed by the cushion of cerebrospinal fluid. The parts of the brain most affected are the midbrain and diencephalon, however other areas include the upper brainstem, the fornix, the corpus callosum, temporal and frontal lobes.

There can be damage to the brain cells and neurons due to altered blood flow and metabolism.

Prevention Prevention of brain injuries involves general measures like airbags in cars and wearing seatbelts, headgear in athletes, and helmets for children on bicycles. Older people are encouraged to try to prevent falls by keeping floors free of clutter and wearing thin, flat shoes with hard soles that do not interfere with balance. Avoiding activities on rainy or snowy days can prevent slips and falls. Maintaining good balance with core stabilization exercises is also effective.

Treatment Usually concussion symptoms go away without treatment after a few weeks to a few months. Rest is the most important treatment including plenty of sleep. Oftentimes activities that worsen the symptoms must be limited and stopped altogether: reading, television, computers, video games, physical exertion, exercise, and stress. Children and adults often have to take time off from school and work for recovery.

Medical treatment is often focused on symptom relief and may include analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications. When the psychologic symptoms are prominent, supportive psychotherapy and the use of antidepressant and antianxiety medications may be helpful.

Natural remedies would include arnica montana, a homeopathic remedy for trauma and pain. Herbal support would include bromelain, curcumin, quercitin and ginger; feverfew if migraine symptoms. Nutrition support with omega 3 fatty acids (three grams daily for 90 days) to reduce inflammation and protect the nervous system; vitamin D (3000-5000 IU per day for 3 months); magnesium (200-400 mg daily, deficiency can lead to hyperexcitability of the nervous system). Also helpful are vitamin B12 injections, folic acid, coenzyme Q10, alpha lipoic acid, phosphatidylserine, NAC, and broccoli seed extract. Gluten elimination can be very helpful in any brain injury patient with digestive difficulties. Calorie restriction and ketogenic diets are highly beneficial and may improve mitochondrial function while reducing inflammation throughout the body.

Education is the most important role of the physician to assure the patient and family members that their symptoms are not unique or crazy but part of a well described syndrome. Also educating employers, attorneys, insurance companies and other physicians is essential as it takes time for the brain to recover.

Osteopathic Medicine Also known as Osteopathy, its philosophy considers and treats the whole rather than narrowly focusing on a specific ailment. Discovered

in 1874 by Andrew Taylor Still M.D., it is based on the belief that the structure of the body is intimately related to its function. In treating patients, osteopaths utilize various forms of physical manipulation, which allow the body’s innate self healing mechanism to operate more efficiently.

A gentle hands-on technique called cranial osteopathy (craniosacral therapy) can be applied to the head and can be quite beneficial in the healing process and the management of symptoms related to brain injuries. It is performed by osteopaths (D.O.s or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) who are medical doctors licensed to practice all aspects of medicine and surgery. Osteopaths gently and precisely determine the rhythmic flow of the cerebrospinal fluid after a brain injury. They can detect any abnormal patterns of movement in the cranial bones and sutures, and discern the original forces of movement that caused the head injury. Often this approach can also directly address the area of the brain involved from the trauma, and help to restore motion, circulation and overall brain function. The gentle techniques can also remove deep-seated compressions in the skull where the pituitary and hypothalamus glands reside and help to restore the flow of hormones and the endocrine system. The dural membranes within the skull are also addressed with cranial osteopathy and restrictions here are very important to free-up.

Cranial treatments are usually done one to two times a week until symptoms resolve.

Case Study: M.J. was a female client who was referred by a local neuro-feedback practitioner for persistent headaches, fatigue and dizziness after a concussion that resulted from a cheerleading injury about a year ago. Osteopathic structural evaluation revealed severe compression at both major sutures between the occiput bone and the temporal bone (behind the ear). This is a major site for drainage of the venus blood out of the head. Congestion was causing increased inflammation within the base of the skull. A simple, precise technique called venus sinus drainage was applied to specific

locations to relieve the congestion and then cranial techniques were applied to free up the sutures and restore overall motion to the head. After the initial visit the patient had major improvement in her symptoms, and was able to go back to cheerleading practice.

Even a mild brain injury – the forgotten bump on the head, or a fall from a horse – can cause changes in memory and should be treated as soon after the injury as possible.

Neurofeedback: Non-invasive, highly effective at healing head injuries Recent studies indicate that neurofeedback has an 80% efficacy in traumatic brain injury.

Essentially, it is a form of biofeedback guided by electroencephalography (EEG). It involves connecting the patient to a computer based system via electrodes with at least three different points of contact to the scalp and ears. The process begins by using EEG to create a map of the patient’s brain, and to identify the particular point or points in the brain that may not be functioning optimally. Depending upon the type of neurofeedback, the patient may sit in the chair for seconds or up to an hour. The system monitors brain waves, and may also send impulses back to the brain – though they are at such a low level that the patient generally does not feel it. Reported improvements include: reduced anxiety, improved memory, attention of cognitive disturbances, elimination of behavior problems, improved organizational and executive function, better attention, reduced pain, and resolution of mood disturbances.

Dr. David Johnston is an Osteopathic physician and the founder of the Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC in Ridgefield, Connecticut. His practice focuses on a holistic approach to assisting clients back toward health with gentle hands-on Cranial Osteopathy and nutrition. For any questions, comments or further tips about Natural Approaches for Managing Head Injuries, please call us at 203-438-9915 or check out our website www.OsteopathicWellness.net.

See ad on page 25.

Advance Biomedical Treatment Center, LLC

(formerly Avon Therapeutic Center) 701 Cottage Grove Road Suite C-10 Bloomfield, CT 06002 Tel (860)242-2200 Fax (860)242-2212 www.AvonTherapeuticCenter.com

A healthy gut leads to a healthy brain and immune system!  Identify toxins (heavy metals, xenobiotics, food allergens) and remove with chelation therapy.  Identify and repair problem areas: nutritional deficiencies, mitochondrial dysfunction, leaky gut, detoxification problems  Restore - Oral, Transdermal and Intravenous Nutrient Therapies, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)  Replace - Therapeutic Diets, Eco-friendly and Body-friendly healthy living

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No-Diet Weight Loss:

The Virtual Gastric Band Program

By Diane Bahr-Groth, C.Hy, THTdx

T

he Virtual Gastric Band program is a hypnosis technique that replicates the effects, results and benefits of traditional gastric band or gastric bypass surgery. Originally developed in Europe, the technique requires no hospital stay or recuperation period to obtain the desired weight loss results.

All change is developed, created and implemented in the unconscious mind of the client.

This healthy and natural alternative to weight loss surgery has a 95% success rate. Hypnosis is widely recognized by researchers as a very safe, natural and enjoyable state of deep physical and emotional relaxation. The Virtual Band Hypnosis suggestions cause the unconscious mind to believe the stomach is much smaller, the size of a golf ball, as if the gastric band were installed surgically. This prevents the client from over-eating and results in weight loss with a measurable reduction of body fat and inches.

However, there is no diet. The purpose of this hypnosis program is to help people eat smaller portions and enjoy the healthy changes they will automatically be able to make, without deprivation and dieting.

Most weight loss programs involve eliminating the foods people love and can lead to failure because many people are unable to sustain a diet plan that causes them to feel deprived. They then often eat more than they did prior to their “diet” failure and regain the weight. The focus of the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis program is not specifically on how many pounds are lost but rather on clothing size reduction, the ability to eat small amounts of food, and recognizing when one has had enough to eat, feel satisfied and stop eating. The expected outcome is that by eating small amounts of food and stopping when full, weight loss and smaller clothing sizes will naturally occur. Scientifically, it is impossible to eat far less food and not lose weight and clothing sizes.

Study Results In mid-March and early April, 2 trials began using the Virtual Gastric Band program. One study group had 5 participants and the other had 3 participants. The program consisted of 4 hypnosis sessions, one each week for one month. Each person was given the simple “Golden Rules of Success” to follow along with specific hypnotic suggestions to reduce portion sizes, drink plenty of water as well as motivation to exercise more often. All were instructed to listen to a special pre-recorded hypnosis CD at least once daily for 28 days to support the positive emotional and physical changes desired.

The goals of all participants and clients were to be and feel healthier, eat better and reduce their clothing size. Some participants were diabetic and/or pre-diabetic. All participants were female and ranged in age from mid-30s to late-50s. Most women had young children at home but all were working women with very busy lives. Their weight loss goals ranged from a minimum of 40 lbs. to more than 100 lbs.

Session 2 Results One week after the first Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis “surgery” session every participant reported many positive changes, including some changes not related to healthy eating or weight loss. All participants reported they were more relaxed, ate smaller portions, drank more water and noticed their thoughts, behavior and emotions related to food and eating had changed dramatically. The emotional eating related to each participant or client virtually stopped in most cases or was greatly curtailed. Most reported they recognized a “full feeling” and were able to stop eating, naturally. Some noticed a lifelong habit of eating quickly had changed. They ate more slowly and enjoyed their food more. One participant realized she no longer had a desire to eat ice cream nightly which had been a habit for many years. Another took half her food home from a restaurant which surprised her. Some reported that they slept better. One participant, a pre-diabetic nurse with thyroid issues, no longer craved Chinese food and actually became ill after eating a small amount of her favorite food, pasta. It was a response similar to what many experience after a traditional surgical gastric band procedure. She ordinarily would have had several portions but one portion was too much for her.

Her coffee consumption was reduced from 5 cups to less than 1 cup per day. She lost 6 lbs. and no longer had overwhelming cravings for sweets or starches. Another participant said she noticed that “full signal” and now eats far less. Her clothes fit her more comfortably and the obsession with food is gone. Another noticed that her favorite fatty, heavy foods didn’t taste as good as they used to. She is now satisfied with far less food, drinks lots of water and sees positive changes in her responses and thoughts toward food.

Session 3 Results At this point, participants had been listening to their CD for 2 weeks. All participants reported it was easier to eat small portions, eat more healthfully, eliminate emotional eating, drink more water and feel more relaxed. One woman quit her 1+ pack per day smoking habit and did not experience withdrawal or emotional snacking. Another quit her 6 month nicotine gum habit. There had been no suggestions for stopping smoking or ending nicotine dependency during the hypnosis processes.

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One person lost 8 lbs. and another lost 4 lbs. in 10 days, without dieting. Another lost 2 lbs. but her clothes fit her so much better that she feels she may have lost one full dress size. Everyone felt more in control and able to stop eating when satisfied.

Weight loss or having their clothing fit more loosely was experienced by all except for one person but she reported that she was more relaxed and happier than she has been in a long time.

Session 4 Results One trial group had experienced their final hypnosis session of the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis program. Most participants in that group had experienced their personal hypnosis session as well. At that time other participants had experienced just 3 sessions and several only 2 sessions. That means participants had been using the program and modifying their behavior for just 3-6 weeks.

Everyone noticed improvements in their eating habits and choices. Most eat more slowly, eat smaller portions, are more relaxed and have eliminated their emotional eating.

They feel positive and confident that the Virtual Gastric Band hypnosis program has finally allowed them to be in control of their eating behavior.

The Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis program helped each participant and client be in control of their food choices and portion size.

Anyone who wants to eat healthier and lose weight may be a candidate for this new and specialized hypnosis program. At a time when obesity and the resulting health issues cost the American public and insurance companies millions, this may be a simple, relaxing and successful way to save money and lives without “going under the knife.”

Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis can be used by almost anyone who desires to eat more healthfully to accomplish their weight loss goals in a natural and relaxing way. It is not necessary to be a candidate for gastric band surgery to utilize this hypnotic procedure for change. The Virtual Band Hypnosis program is a powerful and natural way to return to an ideal weight without surgery and without deprivation.

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx, Director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis, specializes in fast and effective methods for weight loss, stress, fear and pain reduction, smoking cessation, success and more. She is a Certified Hypnotist and certified in Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis. Established in Fairfield County since 1989, her office is located at 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. Call (203) 595-0110 for an appointment or visit www.mindbodytransformation.com. See ad on page 13.

Enter an Oasis Of Wellness For Body and Soul

Leave the Noise and Stress of the World behind.

We believe lasting well-being depends upon providing both top-notch treatment and a calming environment. We’re your personal oasis of tranquility — free of traffic noise, fluorescent lights, dusty carpets and cubicle-like spaces. We help you restore balance and inner happiness.

Visit us today and experience the difference for yourself.

• Ayurvedic Massage Therapists • Longer Massage Periods • Warm Towels for Your Feet • Peaceful, Tranquil Environment • Lighting/Climate Controlled • Hydraulic Tables, Organic Oils

The Mill at 2 Tunxis Rd, Suite 208 | Tariffville, CT | 860.217.0340 | www.enlightenedway.com

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By Chef David Pianka

Healthy Cooking

Papacelle’s Vegetable and Farro Stew

I

n this month’s recipe I will be showing you a very versatile stew with one of my favorite whole grains, farro. Farro is an unhybridized form of wheat which is quite high in fiber, protein and vitamin E. Because farro is unhybridized most people that have gluten allergies can still enjoy this tasty whole grain (of course check with your physician first). This stew is versatile in that you can replace any and every ingredient. You can use any vegetables you would like and omit the chicken if you would prefer a vegetable stew.

As with all of our recipes you will notice that the recipe will be simple and will have very few ingredients. Because of this simplicity, the freshness and quality of each ingredient will be extremely important.

Dish: Farro Stew Category: Entree Serves: 2 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15minutes Preparation: Boil your farro while you are completing these steps (it will be done in about 7 minutes, when it is done it will be “al dente” with a slight bite to the texture).

Ingredients: Item

Suggested Substitutions

1 Cup Farro 2 cloves chopped garlic 1 head of broccoli, split in four pcs.

1/2 red pepper cut into 1/2” slices 1/4c canned red beans (with juice) 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock

1. Saute your garlic on medium-high heat until golden brown.

Shallots, leeks, cippolini onion Any vegetable Any vegetable Any other beans Pipe stock (water)

2. Add all your other veggies and ½ of the stock and simmer until broccoli is cooked (about 3 more minutes).

3. If you have chosen to add chicken now is the time, also the beans can be added now and simmered for another 4-5 minutes.

4. Now add the farro and the rest of your stock, let simmer for another 2-3 minutes and serve.

I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions, ideas or would just like to talk food join me at our blog www.papacelle.com. Join us on Facebook or email me dave@papacelle.com anytime! See ad on page 31.

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calendar Calendar listings can also be view online please go to naturalnutmeg.com and click the calendar link or scan the QR code with your smart phone to be taken directly to our calendar page.

Listings in red are held in Fairfield County Wednesday, June 1st Get started meeting: The Weight Loss Program Nobody Believes! Also, 6/15 & 6/29.

Dr. Helene Pulnik discusses what you can expect from this revolutionary diet. Simple easy to follow plan to lose 10-30 pounds in a month. Totally unique, not like any diet you have ever tried. You will not be restricted to eat certain foods for the rest of your life. 3 Week Program: $295, 6 Week Program: $475 (pre-paid). Call to sign up for your “Get Started” meeting offered every other Wednesday at 6:30 pm.

6/1, 6/15, 6/29. Glastonbury Naturopathic Center, 18 School Street, Glastonbury, CT. (860) 657-4105. www.naturopathicwellness.com.

Friday, June 3rd Reiki 1st Degree Workshop with Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. 10am to 5pm. Also June 4th. Receive 4 meditations, manual and certificate included Take Reiki from an experienced Reiki teacher. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Avenue, Norwalk, CT ( off of Exit 16/i 95). Free private parking. Pre-Registration required at 203-852-1150 or angelhealreikigigib@snet.net. Fee $115 Crystal Bowls Sound Healing. 7 - 8:30 pm. $15. Edie Jemiola, RMT, facilitates. Sound used with intention can shift the energy in and around the body to help reestablish physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct. com. Register with Edie: (860) 933-8145.

Saturday, June 4th Reiki I. 9a.m. – 5p.m. $125.00. Attune to the universal energy in this Level I Usui Reiki class. Learn traditional hand positions, how to give a full body session and receive attunements. Participants receive a manual, book and certificate. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Private Sessions with Kerri Mitchell, Master Intuitive. 10-5pm. $125 for 1 hr / $85 for ½ hr. Kerri helps to connect those pieces of your life that are essential to your personal growth and evolution. Cross-

roads Wellness Ctr., 10 Crossroads Plaza, W. Hartford. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-232-3331 or www. epllc.org.

Soul Connections. 7 to 9pm, $35 per person. Guaranteed Reading – Limit of 20 attendees – Advanced registration required.

Kerri Mitchell will invite guests to receive a personal reading as she translates guidance and messages from a Soul perspective. Pre-Registration Required. WHSC – 15 Starkel Rd. W. Hartford, CT. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-2323331 or www.epllc.org.

Sunday, June 5th Reiki for Kids. 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. $75.00. This class is offered to attune kids to the Reiki energy and reawaken in them the natural healing ability they possess. Age 10 and up. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

The Thought Exchange Workshop.

1- 3pm. A Workshop with David Friedman, A spiritual support group based in the results of a realization of having a new thought. “What if what you see in your life is just a mirror of your thoughts?” Cost: Love Offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk, Ct.

Tuesday, June 7th Business Skills for Holistic Practitioners.

6:30p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $225.00 (Payment plan available). Five Tuesdays June 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, and July 5th. This class will help you focus your business and develop a plan for success. Some of the areas that will be covered are developing your brand, creating your mission, marketing your business, and developing a business plan. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, call Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Wednesday, June 8th Healing in Harmony Night. 5p.m. – 7pm.

FREE. Participants will sit individually with Priscilla Bengtson and receive a healing.

Each healing will be approximately 8 – 10 minutes. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. For more information, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Abundance/Manifestation. June 8, 15, 22, July 13, 20, 6:30-8:30pm. Cost $97 entire 5 session series- includes companion book. Free yourself up to let your wishes come true! Learn how focus your intent and energy to create and manifest abundance in all its forms. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Contact Gayle @203265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or www.return2love.com.

Thursday, June 9th Group Past Life Regression. 6:30-8:30pm, Cost $20. Through exploration of your

past lives, you can learn some of the reasons you are repeating patterns, why you were born into your particular family or why you have certain behaviors. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Contact Gayle at 203-265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal. net or visit www.return2love.net Vibrational Healing Meditation. 7-8:30 pm. $15. Lisa Burch, LCSW, RMT & Marna Walter, RN, RMT, facilitate. Relax with this blend of guided imagery and sound healing with the Tibetan singing bowls, drum and tingshas. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket if you wish to lie down. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Lisa: 860-871-9295 x2.

Private Sessions with Sri Madhu. Through June 11th. Sessions available in South Glastonbury and West Hartford - $125/ one hour session. His ability to read your energy and provide Chakra, Karmic or Energy Healing brings release, strength and focus as you take a path towards higher consciousness and a permanent state of awakening. Call or email to reserve your session soon! wendy@eckam.org or call 860 633-9310.

Core Stabilization & Strengthening Class.

No Cost. 1:15pm-1:45pm. Instructor: Carol Gordon, PT, IMTC. This one hour class offers the student basic core stabilization and strengthening techniques that can be performed easily at home or hotel room. Perfect for the busy individual with little time to hit the gym. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. For information or to sign up for this class, contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@centerimt.com or call 860 243 5220.

Friday, June 10th The Dance of the Chakras with SRI MADHU. 7:30 PM. This fun and informative evening includes: • A talk by Sri Madhu • An experiential exploration of our Chakra Energy System • A short experience ritual to balance the 5 Pranas of the Chakras • Powerful Deeksha followed by Savasana.

WHSC – 15 Starkel Rd. W. Hartford, CT. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-232-3331 or www.epllc.org.

Yoga Nidra. Free. 1:15-1:45pm Instructor: Julie McNeal. Please, eat your lunch before or after this program. Yoga Nidra or the yoga psychic sleep is a guided meditation practice of deep relaxation that has been found to reduce tension and anxiety. It is said that a 30 minute practice is equivalent to 4 hours of rest and relaxation. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. For information or to sign up for this class, contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@ centerimt.com or call 860-243-5220.

What the Bleep Can I Eat?! 7pm. Free.

Cheshire Public Library. Dr. Debra Anastasio will present an overview of her recently published book for you and your family to adopt a medicinal food diet to control diabetes, heart disease, aging, allergies, Celiac and more!

Saturday, June 11th Psychic Saturday. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. $20.00 for a 20-minute reading. Priscilla Bengtson will connect with her guides and angels to provide you with the information you need. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, call Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Sunday, June 12th Are You Ready For Your Perfect Partner?

2-5 pm. $35. Many people are searching for their perfect partner. There is often a gap between how much we want love and how open we are to receiving it. Come and learn the steps to truly becoming magnetic to love. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/ Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv at 860-871-9295 by June 8.

Let’s Meet-Up on the Path to Oneness.

9:30-11:30am. $20 suggested donation.

Are you on a path to becoming an enlightened human being or do you desire to find your way? Each community meet-up will include a centering activity, sharing of the Oneness Deeksha energy. Hosted by Robin Clare, Founder, Enlightened Professionals. 10 Crossroads Plaza, W. Hartford.

To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-232-3331 or www.epllc.org.

Tuesday, June 14th Restorative Yoga. 7:00- 8:15pm. $16 drop in, class cards available. Join Tammy Villamizar and benefit from committing to connecting with self in this restorative class. The body will be warmed with a soft flow then experience deep relaxation with supported poses. www.sacredriversyoga. com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545.

Thursday, June 16 What is Naturopathy? 7-8:30 pm.Free.

Learn the differences between naturopathic and conventional medicine. Learn about the training of licensed naturopathic physicians and the philosophy and principles of treatment. Guest speaker, Dr. Lauren Gouin, ND of Manchester presents, www.ctnaturalhealth.com. Hosted at The Conduit Center, 1227 Burnside Avenue, Suite #1 (far left, 2nd floor), East Hartford, CT, 860-888-4314. Sponsored by Alliance For Holistic Living, part of a monthly series. www.afhlnow.org.

Friday, June 17th Gallery Night. 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $45.00. Enjoy an intimate evening of learning about angels and guides and experiencing intuitive readings with medium and certified Angel Therapy Practitioner®, Priscilla Bengtson. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury.

To register, call Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

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calendar Saturday, June 18th Praying in Color. 9a.m.–10:15 am. $25.00. (register for both workshops and pay only $55.00). Using simple drawing shapes and writing, you will learn how to tap into your inner child and make a deeper connection with Spirit. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Introduction to Mandalas. 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. $45.00 (register for both workshops this day and pay only $55.00). Gain an understanding of the meanings of the colors, shapes and placement of objects you use to create your mandala. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

The Deeper Practice with Jean Skeels.

9am- 1pm. $100. An inquiry based class which will include asana, pranayama, meditation and other experiences, done with the intention of opening to a deeper awareness of the true self and guide the student towards awakening consciousness. Open to all Health Care Professionals (OT’s, PT’s, RYT’s, LMT’s, Naturopaths, Acupuncturists, etc). Continuing Education Units can be given to RYTs. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information.

Pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033. 860.657.9545.

Spine and Posture with Margo Hennebach, Feldenkrais Practitioner. 2:00 – 5:00 pm. $75. Open to all Health Care Professionals (OT’s, PT’s, RYT’s, LMT’s, Naturopaths, Acupuncturists, etc). Continuing Education Units can be given to RYTs. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Space is limited so please pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545.

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Summer Solstice Celebration – The Shamanic Way! 7 PM - $20 suggested donation. Through participation of circle members; intentions will be set, understood and integrated throughout the evening.

We will celebrate the longest day of the year and embrace the Sun’s eagerness to show our true Power. Please bring a drum, a rattle or your own voice! Agneta Borstein, graduate with Advanced Shamanism and Healing will hold the circle. S.O.U.L. Center Labyrinth – Granby, CT. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-2323331 or www.epllc.org.

Sunday, June 19th Sen Channels: Ruesi dat ton and Thai Yoga Asana with Rick Haesche, LMT. 9am – 12pm. $75. It is a combination of breathing exercises, self-massage, acupressure, physical poses, mantras, visualization, and meditation to open the channels within your body. Open to all Health Care Professionals (OT’s, PT’s, RYT’s, LMT’s, Naturopaths, Acupuncturists, etc). Continuing Education Units can be given to RYT’s.

Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545.

will explore conscious and unconscious trance states and participants will learn a technique they can use when working on their own at home. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, call Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Janet Hulme – Improving Back Strength and Stability. Free. 1:15pm-1:45pm. Instructor: Marilyn Gross, PT, IMTC. Based on the work of Janet Hulme – focus on back strength and stability. This one hour class is structured to provide individuals, suffering from back pain with an easy set of functional exercises. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. For information or to sign up for please contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@ centerimt.com or call 860 243 5220.

Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Free Information Session. 5 pm.

Discover an innovative program for leaders who wish to affect positive change in their personal lives, community, and profession. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT 06524. Call (203) 874-4252 or visit www.learn.edu/events to RSVP.

Tuesday, June 21st

Thursday, June 23rd

Yin Yoga Donation Class. 7- 8:30pm. Erika Halford will be teaching a Yin Yoga class appropriate for all levels of yoga practitioner. This is a donation based class. All donations received will be used to benefit the over 3,000 children on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota.

Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information or call 860.657.9545. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033.

Master of Arts in Experiential Health and Healing. Free Information Session. 5 pm.

Discover an innovative graduate program that focuses on health and wellness as a function of body, mind, and spirit. Stamford Hospital’s Tully Health Center, Conference Room B. Call (203) 874-4252 or visit www.learn.edu/events to RSVP.

Wednesday, June 22nd

Reiki 2nd Degree Workshop with Gigi Benanti, Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher - 10am to 5pm. Also June 25th. Learn self-healing or healing for others, receive meditations, two special attunements.

Includes review to Reiki 1, information

Learning to Channel. 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $50.00. This is an intermediate to advanced class for those ready to develop their mediumship at a higher level. We

Friday, June 24th

about essential oils and crystals, manual and certificate included. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Avenue, Norwalk, CT.(off Exit 16/ I-95) Free private parking.

Pre-Registration required at 203-8521150 or angelhealreikigigib@snet.net. Fee $215-225. www.angelhealreiki.com.

Music, Meditation & (possibly) Mayhem.

7:00 pm. Kenneth Gartman will lead us from the piano in an evening of praise and worship New Thought style. Rev. Shawn will lead us in meditation. You will lead us in fun and fellowship. Stick around for potluck fellowship afterward. Bring a dish and bring the whole family. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk, Ct.

Saturday, June 25th Private Appointments with Pat Caffrey, Master Channel - 9-5 PM - $125 for 1 hr / $85 for ½ hr. Pat channels the Healers of LIGHT to perform a new healing modality called Spectral Light Healing. The Healers of Light (channeled through Pat) are able to clear blocks and assist with healing in many ways. Crossroads Wellness Center – 10 Crossroads Plaza. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-232-3331 or www.epllc.org.

Group Healing Session with Pat Caffrey, Master Channel - 7:00 PM – Donations Only. Pat - The Angelic Council & Healers of LIGHT invite you to meet us for our new healing format. We are adding a unique experience of healing as we do the touch phase of the session. We will be aligning and attuning your energy field individually as well as the group as a whole.

West Hartford Senior Center – 15 Starkel Rd. To register call Enlightened Professionals at 860-232-3331 or www.epllc.org.

Sunday, June 26th Women’s Empowerment Meditation.

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $25.00. This guided meditation is specifically designed to the energy of the group. 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. simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Suite 210, Glastonbury. To register, contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

Thursday, June 30th Reiki. 7pm Reiki with Hilda Swaby, Cost: Love Offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. For more information, please call (203) 855-7922or email us at office@unitycenterps.org Simplify The Law of Attraction. 7-9 pm. $25. Many people are confused about the Law of Attraction and how to apply it effectively. Learn about the LOA in simple terms and receive clear tools for using the LOA and beginning to create more of what you want in your life. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv at 860871-9295 by June 27.

Open House at The Graduate Institute.

5:30pm. Discover a unique learning community offering accredited Masters degrees in creativity, metaphysics, and the healing arts. 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT. Call (203) 874-4252 or visit www. learn.edu/events to RSVP.

ONGOING EVENTS SUNDAYS 15 Minutes in the Silence. Align with your Higher Self before the Celebration Service. 10am. Celebration Service with Rev. Shawn Moninger. 10:30 am. The Unity

Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. Information, call (203) 855-7922or email us at office@unitycenterps.org.

Spiritual Cinema Circle. 7 pm. Independent, spiritual filmmakers are creating inspirational movies with heart and soul. First Sunday of every month, movie followed by discussion of the film. No charge. Bring popcorn and an open mind.

Move2Wellness located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-403-2522 or www.move2wellness.com.

Meditation Sunday Evenings. 7pm. The 3rd, 4th, 5th Sunday every month. Meditation led by a different practitioner every week. Experience different techniques and styles for your own practice. Free.

Move2Wellness is located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-403-2522 or www.move2wellness.com.

MONDAYS Tai Chi Class. 6-7pm. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung.

He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years. Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp. Oct 1, 2011. Wu Healing Center, 45 South Main Street, Suite #100, West Hartford, CT. 800-990-9332. www. wuhealing.com.

The Workbook Lessons from A Course in Miracles with Rev. Shawn Moninger.

10am. Love Offering. The Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. For information, please call (203) 855-7922or email us at office@unitycenterps.org.

Belly Dance Fusion with Naima Provo.

7-8:30pm $20/ class, 10 classes for $170.

No experience necessary! Learn movements focusing on muscle isolation, core strength, and correct posture. Practice movements with drills & stretches to all types of music. Come wiggle & giggle with us! Move2Wellness is located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-403-2522 or www. move2wellness.com.

The Thought Exchange, A Workshop with David Friedman. 7pm. A spiritual support group based in the results of a realization of having a new thought. “What if what you see in your life is just a mirror of your thoughts?” The Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. Cost: Love Offering. Call (203)855-7922. email office@unitycenterps.org.

TUESDAYS A Course in Miracles facilitated by Joan Goss. 7pm. The Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. Cost: Love Offering. For more information, please call (203) 855-7922or email us at office@ unitycenterps.org.

Kids Yoga (girls/boys ages 4-7). Tuesdays, 4:30pm-5:30pm. Enlightened Way Wellness Center. 2 Tunxis Road, Suite #208, Tariffville (Simsbury), CT 06081. (860) 217-0340. www.enlightenedway.com.

Taught by Next Generation Yoga Instructor Jill Hebert.

All Levels Vinyasa. 5:45-6:45pm. $16 drop in, class cards available. Maeve Ryan combines the stretching and relaxation of gentle yoga with the heat-building core and balance work of vinyasa flow yoga.

All are welcome. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545

Tai Chi for health. Glastonbury. 12pm - 1.

Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800545-7664. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese holistic exercise system with its roots in the martial arts, it’s unique qualities make it beneficial for all. The Tai Chi for Health program was designed by Health care professionals and Tai Chi experts to improve the health of those with Arthritis and Osteoporosis. The exercises can be adjusted to fit the needs of the individual; most can even be done while sitting down. 1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week.

Tai Chi for health. Wethersfield. 3:30pm - 4:30. Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800-545-7664. See description on previous listing. 1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week.

Tai Chi for health. Windsor. 7:30 pm 8:30. Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800-545-7664. 1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week. See description on previous listing.

WEDNESDAYS A Course in Miracles facilitated by Rev. Shawn. 10am. The Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St., (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk, CT 06851. Cost: Love Offering. For more information, please call (203) 855-7922or email us at office@unitycenterps.org.

Kids Yoga (girls/boys ages 7-12). 4:305:30pm. Enlightened Way Wellness Center. 2 Tunxis Road, Suite #208, Tariffville (Simsbury). (860) 217-0340. www.enlightenedway.com Taught by Yoga Kids Instructor Julie Erasmus.

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THURSDAYS Meditation Sessions. 5:30pm-6pm. FREE. 30-min. group meditation. Great for beginners or those just wanting a tranquil place to meditate. “Chopra Center Certified” Instructors. Enlightened Way Wellness Center. 2 Tunxis Road, Suite #208, Tariffville (Simsbury). (860) 217-0340. www.Enlightenedway.com.

Tai Chi for health. Wethersfield. 3:30pm - 4:30. Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800-545-7664. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese holistic exercise system with its roots in the martial arts, it’s unique qualities make it beneficial for all. The Tai Chi for Health program was designed by Health care professionals and Tai Chi experts to improve the health of those with Arthritis and Osteoporosis. The exercises can be adjusted to fit the needs of the individual; most can even be done while sitting down. 1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week.

Tai Chi for health. Windsor. 7:30 pm 8:30. Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800-545-7664.1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week. See description on previous listing.

Kundalini Yoga & Meditation. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Cost $25. Kundalini Yoga is a sacred technology that awakens the spirit, energizes the body & relaxes the mind. Everybody can do this regardless of age, size and fitness level. It’s “90 minutes that can change your life.” Call or email to reserve.

Move2Wellness at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-4032522 or www.move2wellness.com.

FRIDAYS Tai Chi for health. Glastonbury. 12pm - 1.

Information call the Hartford Hospital Referral Service at 860-545-1888 or 1-800545-7664. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese holistic exercise system with its roots in the martial arts, it’s unique qualities make it beneficial for all. The Tai Chi for Health

Bee Well Therapy, Inc. Alan Lorenzo Traveling Bee Venom Therapist AAS Member/CMAC – Educated S E RV I N G N O RT H A M E R I C A

Call for a free phone consultation.

203-322-7872 www.BeeWellTherapy.com

Bee Venom Therapy can offer significant relief from the symptoms of Arthritis, Bursitis, Tendinitis, Lyme Disease, Carpal Tunnel, Herniated Discs, M.S., and other spinal, neural, or musculo-skeletal ailments.

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program was designed by Health care professionals and Tai Chi experts to improve the health of those with Arthritis and Osteoporosis. The exercises can be adjusted to fit the needs of the individual; most can even be done while sitting down. 1 month $80/twice a week or $45/once a week.

Yoga for Girls (ages 11-15). 3rd Friday each month! 5pm-6:30pm. Taught Youth Yoga instructor Julie Erasmus. Celebrate being a girl with this fun-filled yoga class!

Become inspired and learn to listen to your body and explore yoga and other healthy acitivites! Enlightened Way Wellness Center. 2 Tunxis Road, Suite #208, Tariffville (Simsbury), CT 06081. (860) 217-0340. www.enlightenedway.com.

SATURDAYS Gentle Yoga 6 week series. 9-10am. $60 series/$15 drop-in. The gentle yoga class will focus on increasing flexibility, reducing stress, strengthening muscles and improving alignment. Torus Bloom, LLC - 248 Farmington Ave., Suite 202, Hartford. 860-724-1230 or 860-266-6238 TorusBloom@gmail.com www.TorusBloom. com.

Therapeutic Yoga 6 week series. 5/7 – 5/28. 9am. – 10am. $140 series/$35 dropin Therapeutic Yoga is a particularly effective practice for those recovering from, or living with, injury or illness. LK Chair and Gentle Yoga sessions are also available by appointment. Torus Bloom, LLC, 248 Farmington Ave., Ste 202, Hartford, CT 06105. 860-266-6238. TorusBloom@ gmail.com, www.TorusBloom.com.

Tai Chi Class. 9-11am. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung.

He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years. Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp Oct 1, 2011. Wu Healing Center,45 South Main Street, Suite #100, West Hartford, CT. 800-990-9332. www. wuhealing.com.

resources

Allergy Treatment

Colon Hydrotherapy

Health Food Stores

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center

Parkade Health Shoppe

Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND is a certified Advanced Allergy Therapeutics Practitioner. Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is a clinically proven treatment that is highly effective in relieving the many symptoms associated with allergies, food sensitivities, environmental sensitivies, IBS, headaches, skin problems and more. The AAT treatment does not rely on the use of medications, herbal remedies or supplements. The treatment is safe, painless and available to all ages including infants. See ad on page 5.

Constance Jones is New England’s senior Colon Hydrotherapist. During her 30 years of practice, she has performed nearly 50,000 colonics. Connie is certified through both the International Association of Colon Hydrotherapists (I-ACT) and The National Board for Colon Hydrotherapy. She creates a nurturing, serene, and safe environment, and maintains your utmost privacy and comfort. www.cleanmycolon.com. See our ad on page 5.

18 School St., Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Acupuncture Stan Baker, L. Ac., Dipl. Ac.

35 Nod Road, Suite 106, Menla Holistic Health, Avon, CT. • (860) 836-1068 Stan Baker is a fully licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine practitioner with offices in Avon, CT and Springfield, MA. He has been a practitioner in the Oriental healing arts for 25 years. He specializes in difficult cases including back pain/sciatica, headache/migraine, allergies, and arthritis. He is also a teacher of advanced Chen Tai Chi, Aikido and Sun Do Mt. Yoga. See ad on pg 37.

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center Dr.Helene Pulnik, ND LAc. 18 School St., Glastonbury,Ct 6033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Dr. Pulnik is a licensed, board certified Acupuncturist and Naturopathic Physician with over 25 years experience as a healthcare professional. She specializes in acupuncture for infertility, womens' health, migraines, anxiety/stress/ insomnia, arthritis, back & neck pain, sciatica, allergies, chronic sinusitis, and more. See our ad on page 5.

Sophia Natural Health Center

Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, L.Ac. 499 Federal Rd., Brookfield, CT (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com Combining Chinese Medicine with modern science, we restore health by identifying imbalances that cause illness. Acupuncture, Allergy Elimination, Chronic Pain Relief, Hormone Balancing, Thermography, Detoxification. See ad on page 26.

Bee Venom Therapy Bee Well Therapy, Inc.

Alan Lorenzo, Stamford , CT (203) 322-7872 • BeeWellTherapy.com

Bee venom therapy can offer significant relief from the symptoms of spinal, neural, or muscular-skeletal ailments. The antibacterial, anti-viral, and cancer fighting properties of bee venom make it a unique weapon in controlling many diseases.

Please call for a free phone consultation. House calls only, by appointment. See ad on page 42.

Chiropractic Phys.

Advanced Allergy Relief CT Anne Mitchell, ND (203) 239-3400 • www.aarct.com North Haven & W. Hartford Eliminate your allergic reactions using a technologically advanced treatment that corrects the body’s response to the offending food, pollen, mold, perfume, pets, etc. No medications. Non-invasive. Childfriendly. See ad on page 13.

Compounding Pharmacy

Chiropractic Health Ctr. of Glastonbury

2934 Main St.,Glastonbury, Ct 860-657-8800 • www.glastonburychiro.com Dr. Patrick DeFranceso, founder, is a board certified chiropractor with more than 20 years experience assisting patients. To deliver the highest standard of care Dr. DeFrancesco utilizes the state-of-the-art digital x-ray, the latest chiropractic tables and equipment. The office also offers therapeutic massage, nutrition counseling and monthly workshops. Our family of patients range in ages from newborns to senior citizens. The team at the office creates a comfortable and fun loving environment where individuals and families can reach and maintain optimal health and wellness with safe, natural and effective chiropractic care. Feeling good has never been so simple! See ad on page 33.

Glastonbury Naturopathic & Acupuncture Center 18 School Street, Glastonbury, Ct. 860-657-4105 • naturopathicwellness.com Dr. Charles Lerner offers expert Chiropractic and Acupuncture care for acute and chronic problems, both internal medical concerns and pain management. He's gentle, compassionate and treats his patients as whole beings, not symptoms or diseases. Dr. Lerner's approach to health and wellness is simple: he offers a complete method of care specifically designed around the patient’s needs and requirements. In addition to the variety of Chiropractic adjustment techniques, Dr. Lerner offers a wide variety of modalities including hot packs, electrical muscle stimulation, ultra sound therapy, low dose ultra sound therapy and vibration therapy. See ad on page 5.

Francis X. Tortora

Westside Chiropractic

Manchester Parkade, 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT • 860.646.8178 M-Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am-6pm The Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe is an information and service-oriented health food store that has served its community since 1956. Owner, Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S., a Registered Pharmacist and State Certified Clinical Nutritionist, is available for consultation by appointment. Our other staff nutrition consultants provide customers with in-store guidance in choosing vitamins, herbs, sports nutrition products, natural body care, natural and allergen-free foods, and life style changes. Many of our products are discounted every day. Ask us about our gym and other special discounts. See ad on page 17.

Holistic Health Centers Bryce Rx Laboratories, Inc.

30 Buxton Farms Road, Stamford, CT 06905 800-798-7279 • www.brycerx.com Bryce Rx Laboratories is a full service Compounding Pharmacy specializing in the formulation of drugs that are not commercially available. From impotence injections, bio-identical hormones, pain management, and veterinary (this list is not inclusive). Please note, all compounded medications require a prescription from a physician. See ad on page 5.

Dentistry Dr. Steven Hinchey

2249 New London Turnpike South Glastonbury, CT. (860) 633-6518 www.dentistryfordiabetics.com/drhinchey See ad on page 33.

Dr. Charles B. Lerner DC,LAc.

Chiropractor, Board Certified Craniopath 22 Fifth, St., Ste. 208, Stamford, CT (203) 348-0678 See ad on page 14.

Allergy Treatment

18 School St., Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Dr. Kevin Norige, D.M.D.

112 Deming St., South Windsor, CT. (860) 644-0113 Dr. Kevin Norige has been in practice for almost 30 years in South Windsor, CT. His services include Invisalign, Perio Protect, Lumineers, Snapon Smiles and Snap-it, Global Mini Implants, and non-surgical periodontal treatments. He is a member of the ADA, CSDA, and the Hartford Dental Society. He is a clinician with the CT Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic and also serves as a facilitator to dental students at the Univ. of CT. See ad on page 23.

The Canaan Gentle Dentle & Implant Center Dr. Thomas Livingstone 3-5 Railroad St. North Canaan, CT (860) 824-0751 livingstonedentalexcellence.com See ad on page 19.

Fitness / Nutrition Cassandra Forsythe, PhD, RD

557 Prospect Avenue, West Hartford,CT (860) 523-5833 • westsidechiropractors.com

860-933-8255 www.cassandraforsythe.com

Our mission is to provide chiropractic care, naturally based generalist, primary or specialty health care, for persons of all ages. We are committed to educating our patients about their health and wellness and providing them with tools for self improvement. We seek to work in partnership with you to achieve good health and well being in a way consistent with your way of life. Visit our location in West Hartford See ad on page 35.

Cassandra Forsythe is a certified Registered Dietitian and holds her PhD in exercise science and nutrition from the University of Connecticut.

She specializes in weight loss, heart health, high blood pressure, sports nutrition, low carb diets, detox and healthy eating. Contact her today to get your nutrition and health on track.

Enlightened Way Wellness Center

2 Tunxis Road Suite 208, Tarrifville, CT 06081 860.217.0340 • wisdom@enlightenedway.com www.enlightenedway.com Enlightened Way is a tranquil wellness center dedicated to inspiring transformation, providing knowledge, restoring balance, and creating joy and fulfillment in peoples’ lives. We’ve developed an array of programs and services designed to foster and support a life of vitality and balance for everyone. Our services include daily yoga classes, therapeutic and Ayurvedic massages, free group meditations, and Kids’ yoga. We also offer programs such as Children’s Relaxation, Perfect Health/Ayurvedic Lifestyle and Primordial Sound Meditation. See ad on page 37.

Hypnosis Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. (203)595-0110 • mindbodytransformation.com

Mind Body Transformation Hypnosis is a Certified Hypnotist specializing in fast and effective methods for weightloss, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Hypnosis, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™ & NLP. Call for a free consultation. See ad on page 13.

In-Home Health Care New England Nightingales, LLC Assisted Living in the Home 406 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06032 PH. 860-676-7786, Fax 860-676-7704

New England Nightingales, LLC was founded

by Cynthia Ebanks, a registered nurse with more than twenty-five years experience in patient care. We make living at home the right choice for you and your loved ones by helping with the activities of daily living. From our coaching and mentoring services for family caregivers to hourly assistance or 24/7 care, we provide the services you need to manage the various stages of illness, trauma, or dementia. Whatever you need . . .whenever you need it. . we’ll be there.

See ad on page 9.

Inspiration Robin Clare

Inner Wisdom Guide 10 Crossroads Plaza, West Hartford, CT. 860-232-3331 • info@clare-ity.com The Clare-ity Method is a comprehensive tool for discovering what’s next in your personal and business life. An Akashic Record reading provides your soul’s perspective on all aspects of your life. Combine this with Robin’s 30 + years in business and you have an evolutionary business service!

NaturalNutmeg.com

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resources Life Coaching Life Coaching for Women

Linda Denton, MS, CPC • 860-888-8605 www.Redefineyourlifeafter45.com linda@Redefineyourlifeafter45.com Linda is a Certified Professional Coach, and her passion is helping women find their voice and live life to its fullest.

If you are one of the 43 million midlife American women between the ages of 40 and 60, you are probably thinking about changing your life or reinventing yourself professionally or personally. I would be honored to help you make this incredible transformation. Call/email for a free 30-minute consultation.

Martial Arts Copper Mountain Aikido

21 Copper Hill Road, Granby, CT 06035 (860)986-3617, cpprmtnaikido@gmail.com Copper Mountain Aikido is a member of Birankai International (North America) under the direction of T. K. Chiba, Shihan. Birankai International is recognized by the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Japan.

Copper Mountain Aikido is a traditional Japanese “country-style” dojo offering Aikido, Aikido Weapons, Internal Aiki Training, Iaido (Japanese Sword Art), and Zazen (Zen Meditation). All instruction is conducted by the Certified Chief Instructor licensed under Birankai International (North America). All are welcome!

Naturopathic Doctors Naturopathic Doctors Physicians, M.D. Glastonbury Naturopathic Ctr. 18 School Street, Glastonbury Dr. Helene Pulnik. (860) 657-4105 www.naturopathicwellness.com

Glastonbury Naturopathic Ctr. is a multidisciplinary healthcare center focusing on natural alternatives for individuals to achieve and maintain optimal health. Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, LAc. is a board-certified licensed Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist with over 25 years experience as a healthcare professional. Offering Naturopathic Medicine, Colon Hydrotherapy, Acupuncture, Cleansing & Detoxification Programs, Weight Management Programs. See ad on page 5.

Kensington Naturopathic Medical Ctr.

Dr. Ann Aresco 355 New Britain Rd, Kensington, CT (860) 829-0707 • drannaresco@comcast.net kensingtonnaturopathic.com Centrally located in Connecticut, Kensington Naturopathic Medical Center p r ov i d e s c o m p r e h e n s ive family healthcare. Our team of specialized health professionals is dedicated to facilitating our patients’ optimal health, and offers a wide range of services, including supplementation, homeopathy, acupuncture and Chinese herbs as well as nutrition, holistic health counseling and weight loss/life style changes. See ad on page 35.

Massage

Wholistic Spa™ is a haven of total wellness.

From the moment you step into our quiet space, we are focused on your complete wellness. Our treatments at Wholistic Spa™ use the purest natural and organic ingredients, with no toxic synthetic ingredients. We offer organic facials, hand & foot treatments and signature massage services for women, men and couples, featuring EMINENCE Organic Skin Care from Hungary. Inner Health. Outer Beauty™.

See ad on page 5.

Naturopathic Doctors CT Natural Health Specialists

William Nager, ND, DC

11 Mountain Ave., Ste. 201, Bloomfield, CT • (860) 242-8200 William Nager is a 1985 Graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, in Portland Oregon. He also earned a second degree in chiropratic medicine from Western State Chiropractic College. For the past 25 years Dr. Nager has practiced family medicine using non-toxic therapies for digestive disorders, anxiety, and depression, fatigue, back pain, eczema, allergies, hypertension, high cholesterol and pain management as well as other conditions within the scope of a general family medicine practice.

See ad on page 9.

Lauren Gouin, ND 135 Center St., Manchester, CT (860) 533-0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com Dr. Lauren Gouin is a naturopathic physician with a family practice in Manchester and South Windsor. Dr. Gouin is accepting new patients and is in network with most insurance companies. For more information, contact her at (860)644-2437 or visit www.ctnhs.com. See ad on page 7.

Debra Gibson, ND

158 Danbury Road, Suite 8, Ridgefield, CT 06877 • (203)431-4443 Natural family healthcare using nutrition and biochemistry; herbal, homeopathic, and energetic medicine; lifestyle transformation and detoxification, to promote well-being of body, mind, and spirit.

See ad on page 22.

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Natural Nutmeg

301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT (860) 232-9662 • www.DRAIETA.com

Dr. Frank Aieta, founder of West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine, is a board certified licensed Naturopathic Physician who specializes in the treatment of both acute and chronic disease utilizing the most advanced natural therapeutics. He offers a wide range of natural, non-toxic treatments which include: Acupuncture, Spinal Manipulation, Clinical Nutrition, Detoxification, Pain Management, Herbal Medicine and Natural Hormone Balancing. See ad on page 37.

Nutrition Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203-834-9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com Vicki Kobliner MS RD, CD-N is a Registered Dietitian and owner of Holcare Nutrition.

Vicki works with infants, through adults with chronic illnesses, digestive disorders, food allergies, ADHD and autism and provides fertility and prenatal nutrition counseling. She is a contributing author to A Compromised Generation: The Epidemic of Chronic Illness in Americas Children. See ad on page 19.

Physicians, M.D.

Wholistic Spa

18 School Street, Glastonbury 06033.

(860) 657-4105, www.wholisticspa.com.

Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, LAc, Med. Director

West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine

Center for Integrative Healthcare & Healing

533 Cottage Grove Rd, Bloomfield, CT (860) 243-2224 • www.cmgmds.com/cihh.html The first of its kind in the country, Connecticut Multispecialty Group (CMG) is a large multispecialty group with its own Integrative Medicine Department. The physician-directed model uniquely blends conventional medicine with complementary therapies. Over 70 physicians work collaboratively with licensed massage therapists, licensed acupuncturists, certified energy workers, and registered dieticians. The end result is comprehensive model of healthcare delivery that focuses on whole person wellness and optimal health. CMG also features an electronic health record that interconnects all providers and offers portable flash drives with personal health information to all its clients. See ad on page 3.

Natural Health & Healing, LLC

Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 12 West Main Street, Avon, CT. (860) 677-4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net

The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT (203) 847-2788

Dr. Schweitzer treats all ages with natural therapies including homeopathy, herbal medicine, enzymes, nutritional supplements and more. His advanced cutting-edge technologies evaluate underlying causes and create individualized treatment plans. ASYRA, Ondamed, BrainPaint, footbaths, acupuncture and oxygen therapies are used to achieve optimal health. Allergy desensitization, detoxification programs, immune system support, Lyme disease issues and other wellness protocols are included in his personalized care.

See ad on page 30.

Dr. Deanna Cherrone, founder of Natural Health & Healing, is a board certified Internal Medicine physician who has changed the focus of her practice from traditional Internal Medicine to Functional Medicine. Functional Medicine is a science based approach to health care that involves looking at each patient as a whole being with interconnected systems that function best when they are all in balance.

See ad on back cover.

Tamara Sachs, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care 15 Bennitt St., New Milford, CT (860) 354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.intranets.com See ad on page 42.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, MD • (203) 348-8805 www.DrSobo.com

Medical doctor practicing holistic/alternative medicine and weight reduction in Stamford, CT. Nutrition, Allergy Desensitization, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement for men and women. See ad page 15.

Osteopathic Phys.

Origins Of Health, LLC

Jill Moorcroft, DO, Tom Moorcroft, DO 844 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9790 • www.OriginsOfHealth.com Origins Of Health is a holistic medical center that specializes in Osteo pathicManipulation,inclu ding Cranial Osteopathy, Integrative Medicine and Nutrition. Founders Drs. Tom and Jill Moorcroft integrate their personal passion and extensive training as Family Medicine Physicians while working with you to develop a personalized approach to health that stimulates the self-healing forces within. Our goal is to assist you in realizing optimum health while being free to enjoy life and all it has to offer. See ad on page 10.

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

David L. Johnston, DO • Lisa Preston, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877 (203) 438-9915 • www.osteopathicwellness.net Gentle, natural, hands-on, osteopathic medical care for infants, children and adults. Childrens’ health and development, birth trauma, musculoskeletal pain and injuries, nutrition and wellness counseling, stress reduction, immune support, allergies. Most major insurances accepted. See ad on page 25.

Psychotherapist Lori Carpenos & Associates

566 Prospect Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105 www.3PrinciplesTherapy.com • 860-561-1919 We provide retreats, seminars, and trainings for Executives, Leaders, Couples, and Individuals who are interested in moving beyond their current level of consciousness in work and life, with less stress, and more enjoyment. If you would like to enjoy more creativity, productivity, satisfaction and less stress in life, whether alone or with others, please call to discuss a program that will meet your needs. See ad on page 40.

Soul Support Counseling Nancy M Brockett, PhD, LPC West Hartford, CT 860.223.2232 soul-support.org

Feeling stressed, confused, anxious or depressed? Imagine yourself breaking free from worries and fear and then confidently doing what you haven't been able to before! We work together from the perspective of the whole self to get to the heart of what’s troubling you. Using painless, drug-free treatments, Dr Brockett helps you uncover and build on your own inner strengths so you can free yourself from negativity and live with more joy in your life. See ad on page 17.

Psychotherapist

Social Work

Lila Taylor, LMFT

Michael Westfall, LCSW

Integrative and Holistic Psychotherapy 4 Whitney St. Ext. Westport, Ct. 203-783-3069 • www.lilataylor.com The need for soul work often accompanies relationship conflicts, divorce, loss, trauma, career change, menopause and mid-life transitions. I can help you resolve issues, find resilience, healing, clarity, renewed purpose and fulfillment so you can move forward. I bring a deep intuitive sensitivity and wisdom to our work so you will feel seen, heard, understood and respected. Traditional, spiritual and energy approaches are used. Insurance accepted.

Relationship Coach Candace Brindley

(203) 247-4613 • Rich-Relationships.com.

Certified Master Relationship Coach Candace Brindley coaches singles and couples to find and create the relationships of their dreams. Motivated by her desire to reverse the trend toward relationship failure and family break-up, Candace coaches using current research and skills, giving clients a fresh and intelligent approach to partnering.

Schools Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies

LauraMignosa, NCCH 900 Wells Road (RT. 175) Wethersfield, (860)666-5064 www.ctherbschool.com.

Founded in 1992, the CT Institute of Herbal Studies focuses on Traditional Chinese Medicine and offers a Certified Herbology Program with a foundation in both theory and clinical diagnosis as practiced in China today. See ad on page 42.

The Graduate Institute

Leslie Cahill, Director of Admissions, Recruitment (203) 874-4252 • www.learn.edu.

The Graduate Institute is an accredited institution of higher education that offers Master of Arts degrees in emerging fields of inquiry. Degree programs include: Experiential Health and Healing, Peace Studies, Oral Traditions, Holistic Thinking, and Conscious Evolution. Classes meet one weekend per month and programs are offered in Hartford, Bethany, New Milford, and Stamford, CT. For more information or to find an Information Session near you, call (203) 8744252 or visit www.learn.edu. See ad on page 29.

243 East Center Street Manchester, CT 06040 • (860) 212-8923.

Michael Westfall is a licensed clinical social worker with a practice in Manchester, CT. He has extensive experience with children and teens but works with many adults and couples as well.

In network with most state and commercial insurances, he is accepting new clients at this time.

Please visit the website: michaelwestfall.com or call him at (860) 212-8923. See ad on page 26.

Spas / Day Spas Wholistic Spa

18 School St., Glastonbury, CT • (860) 657-4105 www.wholisticspa.com. • Dr. Helene Pulnik, Med. Director Wholistic Spa™ is a haven of total wellness.

From the moment you step into our quiet space, we are focused on your complete wellness. Our treatments use the purest natural and organic ingredients, with no toxic synthetic ingredients.

We offer organic facials, hand & foot treatments and signature massage services for women, men and couples, featuring EMINENCE Organic Skin Care from Hungary. We also offer an array of deeply therapeutic and purifying services to help you achieve optimal health from the inside out!

Inner Health. Outer Beauty™. See ad on page 5.

Tai Chi Wu Healing Center

45 South Main Street, Suite #100 West Hartford, CT • 800-990-9332 978-790-8888 (Cell) www.wuhealing.com Ming Wu, Ph.D., Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Herbalist, Tui Na Therapy, Tai Chi Master Tai Chi Class on Mondays 6-7pm and Saturdays 9-11am, the instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung. He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years.

Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp Oct 1, 2011.

Thermography Sophia Natural Health Center

499 Federal Rd., Brookfield, CT (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com As the hormone experts, we specialize in women’s health, natural hormone balancing, breast cancer prevention and thermography utilizing the highest definition camera in the area with interpretations from MD specialists in the field.

Thermogram results include a free 15-minute phone consultation. See ad on page 26.

Skincare Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center

Melissa Martin, 16A Ensign Drive, Avon.

(860)284-9730, www.anewyouskincare.net Melissa@anewyouskincare.net We are committed to strengthening your overall well-being and skin health through the use of excellent quality products and extraordinary services that produce amazing results. Only natural ingredients are used, including plenty of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential oils! We want you to be "WOWED"! See ad on page 7.

X to Rays, LLC

Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 35 Boston Street, Guilford, CT 866.986.7297 or 203 331-2878 www.xtorays.com Suzanne is a board certified clinical thermographer. She offers totally safe (no radiation), painless (no compression), 97% accurate FDA approved breast cancer screening. With a masters in Nutrition, Suzanne also advises on breast and body health. Scans for thyroid, lung, liver, gall bladder, pancreas and ovaries are also available. Call for locations throughout CT.

Vibrational/Energy Healing Lightworker of Vibrational Energy LLC, L.O.V.E. Gayle Franceschetti Med,CHt. 36 Cheshire Rd., Wallingford,CT 203-265-2927 • www.return2love.net

Gayle Franceschetti is the founder of the L.O.V.E. Institute and is an acclaimed intuitive counselor and healer, Reiki Master, certified Hypnotherapist and past life regressionist. As an open channel for Divine Energy, Gayle integrates the power of universal love, compassion and understanding in all her workshops and healing sessions.

Gayle conducts healing and mentoring sessions in person, by phone and hosts a variety of workshops and power journeys throughout the U.S. and around the world. See ad on page 40.

Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, LAc. Level II Usui Reiki Practitioner

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School Street, Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 860-657-4105 • naturopathicwellness.com Reiki Energy Medicine is a soft and gentle handson technique supports and connects all the major and minor Energy Chakra Centers of the body, leaving you feeling relaxed, balanced and refreshed! Reiki Energy Medicine works to assist in relieving or reducing pain and discomfort by balancing the body’s energy system. When the energy flow in your body is restored and/or balanced, you are more likely to feel relaxed and your body’s natural healing abilities are utilized.

Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, LAc. is a Certified Level II Usui Reiki Practitioner. See ad on page 5.

Veterinary Care Mobile Pet Vet

Kim Rio, DVM (203)584-1210 • www.mobile-pet-vet.com Mobile Pet Vet is a veterinary housecall practice providing wellness care for dogs and cats. By treating pets at home we reduce their stress and their exposure to infection.

Pets with chronic health problems such as diabetes, kidney disease and other endocrine disorders often benefit from home-based care.

We spend time developing an individualized treatment plan for each animal and we offer a full range of laboratory services. Our flexible scheduling accommodates busy pet owners.

See ad on page 33.

Wellness Centers The Center for Health Renewal C. Evers Whyte, MS, DC, DACBN 30 Myano Lane, Suite 26, Stamford, CT 06902 • (203) 708-9299

Providing holistic integrative medicine and MediCalm Pain Relief Therapy to patients of all ages. Specialist in treating chronic pain, and also a “medical detective,” helping patients heal other chronic conditions that have not responded to traditional drug therapy or surgery. For more information, please see: www.thecenterforhealthrenewal.com & www.MediCalmPainReliefTherapy. com. See ad on page 31.

Move 2 Wellness

Reconnection Practitioners of CT Wendy Tanzer Gelven • 860-989-1997 Ken Lara, 914-255-8804 Jennifer Jensen, 860-297-1543 Kevin Jensen, 860-297-1543 Janet Miller • 860-985-7260 Annette Moreland • 860-818-1897

Wendy, Kevin and Jennifer are all trained facilitators of Reconnective Healing and The Reconnection. Reconnective Healing connects us to the fullness of the universe as it reconnects us to the fullness of our beings and who we really are. Reconnecting us to the universe and to our very essence through an entirely new bandwidth healing frequencies. Call today and experience this new hands-off healing for yourself. See ad on page 19.

Simply Fitness for the spirit, mind and body

Priscilla Bengtson, ATP®, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Ste 210, Glastonbury, CT • (860)632-8434) simplyfitnessonline.com Simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body offers programs and services that help spiritual beings get unstuck in their human experience. Owner Priscilla Bengtson is dedicated to helping people live a joyous and fulfilled life and offers classes and workshops that help people achieve this. Private sessions are offered for intuitive and angel readings, hypnosis, reiki, mandala healing, and health coaching. Psychic parties are also offered in your home or at the center. See ad on page 42.

Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road Ridgefield, CT • 203-403-2522 www.move2wellness.com Massage Therapy • Acupuncture • Yoga Relax & discover the direction of your unique inner compass. Take a much deserved break from “doing” & practice “being.” Come visit our beautiful studio &healing arts center located in the newly restored Stonehouse Commons.

See ad on page 33.

Yoga / Pilates Centers Fuller Yoga, Pilates & Massage 860-951-9642 • info@fulleryoga.com www.fulleryoga.com

Hartford’s largest yoga/pilates/ massage studio provides a serene and vibrant space to experience personal growth and awareness. We promote a non-competitive, friendly environment for every individual to journey physically and mentally towards their true self. Give yourself the gift of complete presence. We have classes for everyone at all levels. All modalities of massage available. Private yoga/pilates sessions are also available. See ad on page 17.

Sacred Rivers Yoga

Paula Scopino LMT, E-RYT 500 IAYT, Owner / Director 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033 PH. 860.657.9545 • FAX. 860.657.3161 www.sacredriversyoga.com. See ad on page 42.

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