Natural Nutmeg October 2011

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Living Naturally

October 2011

4th Anniversary Issue

Commencements Bernie Siegel, MD

An Interview with Dr. Joan Borysenko Karen M. Rider, M.A

The Cancer/Sugar Connection How Sweet It Isn’t Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N

Perspectives on Twenty Years of Breast Cancer Awareness Michelle Pouliot, ND

Go Green on Your Wedding Day: Tips from the Green Bride Guide

Empowering Me...Naturally Wellness Conference November 11th & 12th, 2011

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R e g i s t e R

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Natural Nutmeg Magazine’s

“Empowering Me...

Naturally” WEllNEss CoNfErENCE

November 11 & 12th, 2011

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Friday Night November 11th Saturday November 12th 7Pm-9Pm, KeyNote oPeNiNg SPeaKer:

8am-5Pm, demoS, exhibitS & cloSiNg SPeaKer:

dr. Joan borysenko Suzane Northrop

Suzane Northrop is a nationally recognized trance medium, and an expert in psychic phenomena. For the past 30 years she has bridged the gap between the world of the living and the spirit world. Suzane is a favorite guest on radio shows all over the country, including Gary Craig on WTIC in Connecticut. Concluding address from 3pm-5pm

• A distinguished pioneer in integrative medicine and world renowed expert in mind/body connection • New York Times best seller, Minding the Body, Mending the Mind • Coauthor of the Public Television special Inner Peace for Busy People Friday Keynote - $49/person

Saturday All-Day Demos include:

• Farm to table cooking • Hooping • Laughter Yoga • Boot Camp Fitness • Workshops & exhibits on: natural therapies, clean eating, meditation, detox, energy medicine, green living Saturday workshops/exhibits - $35/person Suzane Northrop only - $45/person

Sponsored by:

To register go to http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com or scan code with your smartphone for details.

Call Today for information regarding sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, (860) 206-9500 or visit www.naturalnutmeg.com.

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

R e g i s t e R

N o w !

Natural Nutmeg Magazine’s

“Empowering Me...

Naturally” WEllNEss CoNfErENCE Workshops include: Dr. Jared M. Skowron, ND 100 Natural Remedies For Your Child

Susan Lazar Hart Decreasing the Stress in Your Life: How Not to Take on Other People’s Energy!

Deb Percival Bright Ideas for Greening Your Holidays

Dr. Erika Cappelluti, MD The Mind-Body Connection: How Good Thoughts Can Lead to Good Health Dr. Diane Hindman, PhD Starting and Ending Relationships Without All The Drama

Terry Walters What’s On Your Plate?

Dr. Lauren Gouin, ND Pesticides, Solvents, Plastics and More: How Your Body Clears Unwanted Chemicals!

Dorinda Gay The Energetic, Intuitive You in the 3d world Marie Baumuller If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Are You Going to Live?

DJ Horn, PT, LMT Peeling Back the Layers to Work with Physical and Emotional Restrictions.

Kate L. Harrison 10 Easy Ways to Green Your Wedding or Celebration Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S. Cancer Prevention & Immunity: Treatment Through the Natural Alteration of Genes

• Papacelle and The Mill at 2T Farm-to-Table cooking • Empower Leadership Sports & Adventure Center experiential games • Each attendee receives a free, recyclable grocery tote bag with goodies, coupons and discounts on holistic products and services. Raffles for amazing prizes!

• Drumming circles, healthy food and beverage tastings, and more!

Dr. Debra Anastasio, ND Beyond Mammograms: The Real Truth About Breast Cancer Prevention Maribeth Abrams, MS, CNC Still Struggling with Weight Loss?

Give Up Dieting Forever!

• Joe Carabese, Founder of M.E.L.T. Fitness Studio • Cassandra Forsythe, author of Perfect Body Diet and The New Rules of Lifting for Women • Karla Kress Boyle, Founder of CT Rhythm Moves, Dance and Hooping, • Kristen Barber, Laughter Yoga Leader

Sponsored by:

To register go to http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com or scan code with your smartphone for details.

Call Today for information regarding sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, (860) 206-9500 or visit www.naturalnutmeg.com.

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In this Issue

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Perspectives on Twenty Years of Breast Cancer Awareness Michelle Pouliot, ND

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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An Interview with Dr. Joan Borysenko Karen M. Rider, M.A 20

The Cancer/Sugar Connection How Sweet It Isn’t Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N

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

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Go Green on Your Wedding Day: Tips from the Green Bride Guide Kate Harrison 36

ADVERTISING SALES Peter Morgan Peter@naturalnutmeg.com

30 Departments

ADVISORY BOARD Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. • Lauren Gouin, ND Ann Aresco, N.D. • Debra Gibson, ND C. Evers Whyte, DC, DACBN David Johnston, DO • Tom Moorcroft, D.O. Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, LAc, CCH

News&Notes 8 Prescription for Living 10

Natural Nutmeg Magazine

Healthy Self 23 Supplements 101 24 Calendar 42 Resources 46 Yoga Pose of the Month 50

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

P.O. Box 447, Avon, CT 06001 Ph. (860)206-9500 • Fax (860)263-8505

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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.

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publisher'sletter

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hat if you only had one year to live? What would you do? What places would you visit?

Who would you spend your time with? How many of you have contemplated this question? I mean seriously contemplated it to the point that you have identified all of the things that you are most passionate about and maybe even created a “100 Things to Do Before I Die” list.

In our crazy, busy, jam-packed lives how many of us are just going through the motions. We work because we have to, but we’re not really that excited about our job and some of us may even hate our jobs. We’re in a relationship because it’s comfortable and we’re afraid to leave it because there might not be anything better out there, even though our current relationship is not that satisfying. We have a family because that’s what you do after you go to college, get a job and get married. But now we have no time for ourselves. We go to church or religious service because we feel guilty if we don’t, but we really don’t have a spiritual practice. We go to the gym and get on the same treadmill or elliptical machine a few days a week and suffer through the same boring, monotonous exercise routine. Does any of this sound familiar? If so, you’ve lost your passion and you need to get it back, NOW! Far too many people go through life without making any effort to truly live passionately … to get that fire in their soul for enjoying life and living it to the fullest. The worst tragedy in the world is the person who has lost his passion. To engage in work or relationships that do not cultivate your passion sabotages your spirit and extinguishes your life flame. You must love what you do and your heart must be in it. Without passion and enthusiasm you will never work to your fullest ability, potential and greatness, you will settle for being mediocre and complacent.

Spend a period of time: a weekend, a month, a year identifying what you love and do it. I would suggest the following as well:

Danbury, Norwalk, Stamford

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

2. Investigate the Common Themes. What commonalities can you draw from the times you were most passionate.

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

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

In health and happiness,

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news & notes Kensington Naturopathic Welcomes New Physician

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ensington Naturopathic Medical Center would like to announce the newest member of our clinic, Dr. Justin Roth. He is originally from Glastonbury, CT and worked as a chiropractor for two years in Wethersfield, CT. Dr. Justin Roth received his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Connecticut. He then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa where he received his Doctorate of Chiropractic. Following his doctorate degree, he completed an additional two years of schooling specializing in upper cervical specific care. Upper cervical care is a rapidly growing form of chiropractic that focuses on the intimate relationship between the first two bones in the neck, called the upper cervical spine, and a vital portion of the nervous system, known as the brain stem. This relationship is absolutely essential to the body’s ability to preserve and restore health. Correcting an upper cervical misalignment can help with a wide range of ailments including but not limited to; migraine headaches, digestive problems, high blood pressure, neck pain, back pain, sciatica, multiple sclerosis, frequent cold/infections, carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, arm pain, depression, fibromyalgia, sinus problems, and dizziness.

Dr. Justin Roth received his upper cervical certification from the prestigious Kale Institute in Summerville, SC. Dr. Roth’s special focus is working with patients with multiple sclerosis and migraine headaches. A passion of Dr. Roth’s is providing upper cervical specific care to sick people around the world through health mission trips. He has traveled to many countries including Brazil, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua.

Visit Dr. Roth’s website at www.kensingtonchiropractor.com. For more information on upper cervical care go to www.uppercervicalcare.com, www.upcspine.com. Contact Dr. Roth at RothUpperCervical@gmail.com.

Conscious Conception Series in Norwalk on Monday, October 3rd

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repare your body/mind/spirit for a healthy journey to conception.

Learn from leading local practitioners who share integrative approaches to support preconception health. Dr. Joel Evans, founder of Center for Women’s Health, Stamford, CT and author of the “Whole Pregnancy Handbook” will kick off the series with a educational seminar on mind/body approach to conception. Other speakers include Vicki Kobliner owner of Holcare Nutrition, who will speak about “Cleaning Toxins Within and Without: The Role that Nutrition and the Environment play on Preconception Health and the Health of Your Baby”, Alexandra McGloughlin will give insights into a “Natural Approach to Pregnancy using the Creighton Method”.

Teresa Bulit-Gordon will be leading a session on “Core Energetics” and how this transformational technique can help you release the emotional blocks that get stored in your body’s cells. The Seminar Series is being hosted by Nina Antolino, Founder of Limitless Potential who will present “The Empowered Path to Conscious Creation” as well as “Stress and Fertility” and lead you through a session on Yoga for Conception. 7:30pm. TLC 152 East Ave. Norwalk, 914-393-9221.

Pre-registration required.

Fertility Massage Helping Women Reach Optimal Health and Natural Births

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ergiana Bruno is a certified fertility massage specialist who helps women become healthier and prepares them to conceive a baby. She is the only massage therapist in Fairfield County who is certified in Fertility Massage. Sergiana learned about Fertility massage when she worked in an acupuncture office. The intention of therapeutic fertility massage is to support the body in cleansing, reducing stress hormones, balancing reproductive hormones, and stimulating the reproductive organs with reflexology. The session is also designed to support the client in achieving a state of balance emotionally with visualizations, affirmations and prayer for those who feel most comfortable with that focus. Castor oil packs are applied on the abdomen during the session for the cleansing effect.

This special technique helps treat endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, fibroids, hormonal imbalances, and stress.

Sergiana Bruno has her own private practice in 1081 East Putnam Ave, Riverside, CT 06878. For an appointment or more information, please call (203) 807-3238 or visit www.painlesshealing.com.

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

New York Times Best Selling Author Dr. Joan Borysenko to Speak at “Empowering Me…Naturally” Wellness Conference

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o you feel fried? Grouchy? Ready to Revive? If so, Dr. Joan Borysenko has designed a presentation just for you. A pioneer in mind-body medicine, interspiritual teacher, and a formerly “fried” human being, Joan will help you tune back into your own essential wisdom. You will learn the key skills of resilience, reconnect with Source, and rediscover who you are without all that stress at her keynote presentation at 7pm on Friday, November 11, 2011 at the “Empowering Me…Naturally” Wellness Conference sponsored by Natural Nutmeg Magazine and held at the Connecticut Convention Center. Tickets are $49 and include parking at the Convention Center.

If you’re a healthcare provider you can revive yourself while also learning tools to help your clients. Join one of the country’s leading teachers integrating mind-body science, positive psychology, and spiritual exploration for a presentation designed to change your life for good. Her presentation will be based on her new book, Fried: Why You Burn Out and How to Revive.

To register to attend “Empowering Me…Naturally”, visit www.empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com or go to www.naturalnutmeg.com for more information.

PANACEA Joins With Coaching2Create in First Worldwide Holistic Day

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n Saturday, October 1, from 11:00 – 3:00 PANACEA is joining with Coaching2Create (www.coaching2create.com) to participate in the first Worldwide Holistic Day. The goal of this day is to educate people about the benefits of holistic practices and to increase the number of holistic practitioners worldwide. Worldwide Holistic Day promotes the understanding and advocacy of alternative or complementary practices to conventional medicine. Please join us at 101 River Rd. in Canton for FREE Reflexology and Energy Healing mini-sessions, meditations, lectures and more.

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prescription for living

by Bernie Siegel, MD

Commencements

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have learned that life is a series of beginnings. I know we have losses and changes in our lives but with each change we begin a new existence. When we finish a book we begin to use the information contained within it. When a loved one dies we begin a new life without them. Graduation ceremonies are called commencements not terminations. So be open minded and begin to see the awe and wonder of life which surrounds you.

As a four year old I had a Near Death Experience (NDE) choking on the pieces of a toy I had taken apart and put in my mouth. I left my body and watched myself dying and thought nothing of the fact that I was out of my body but still seeing what was happening. I was used to being able to see. Then I heard and read about children who were blind from the time of their birth, but were able to see when they had a NDE. Some were upset when they were resuscitated, returned to their bodies and were blind again.

More controlled studies are being done on the effects of prayer on the sick. Those prayed for, even when unaware they are being prayed for, benefit over the control group. There are many questions we probably will never be able to answer including what makes our brain work. We anesthetize people every day and yet really don’t know how it changes the nervous system so people are unconscious and pain free. Hypnosis can also be utilized to perform major surgery free of pain. How do we manage these changes?

I don’t bring these things up to confuse you but to remind you that when you touch someone’s body you are touching more than just the physical aspects of that person. When a physician treats a disease, it is not the diagnosis he is treating but the person’s experience. Physicians must listen to the patient’s description of their affliction. Then you are caring for the patient and not simply treating a disease or diagnosis.

If a physician treats only the disease, he will be focusing on the technical and physical aspects of the problem and not caring for or about the deeper significance and meaning present. As a matter of fact I have met people who don’t want to be relieved of their disease because it gives them the freedom and permission to live differently and they don’t want to go back to their former lives. By helping

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them to change you can restore health and help them to rebirth and reparent themselves and be ready for a new and healthy life free of afflictions.

The hands on treatment can be the way you enter into a person’s life and the beginning of true healing. Both of you need to enter a trance state to have true healing occur. In that state energy can be transmitted through you to the person you are touching. When the person you are touching enters this state of healing with you, changes occur in their physiology and healing occurs.

I use the word healing, not curing, to point out that we are talking about more than the relief of physical symptoms. We are looking at the whole person and treatment of their body and soul. Having experienced this when touched by many therapists, but particularly our son, I can tell you it is a real happening.

These changes can be measured physiologically even when we can’t explain how or why they happen. True healers are simply the conduit for the energy and consciousness of creation to pass through. So when you touch someone let yourself be that pipeline that allows the energy to flow into the person in need you are treating. You will find that now your work doesn’t drain your energy and two people will be healed because the person you are caring for will also be giving something back to you as you heal them, their new found energy.

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 30.

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.

Scientific Research and Medical Infrared Thermography (MIT)

By Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac(RI), LAc, CCH

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hen dealing with any traditional medical technology or procedure that is outside the box, the question of legitimacy may come up. Ironically, in my natural medicine practice, I find that many people judge natural medicine procedures based on their beliefs rather than on facts.

In reality, many common procedures in both traditional and alternative medicine have little quality research to support their use. Dr David Eddy, who spent a lifetime uncovering the mysteries of modern medicine, was quoted in Business Week as saying, “the problem is that we don’t know what we are doing (in medicine)”.

Combined with poor research methods, conventional medicine seems to have significant problems with its own research. An article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicated that “there is considerable evidence that many published reports of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are poor or even wrong, despite their clear importance”.

However, this is not the case with Medical Infrared Thermography. MIT is supported as a proven medical technology by a significant number of independent studies; it has one of the largest databases of research that support its use as an effective screening tool for disease. This database has been built for the last 20 years with some significant findings. The gold standard of medical research is large clinical trials and peer-reviewed publication. This clearly has been accomplished with MIT. To date, well over 500,000 women have been screened. The great majority of the research supports certain conclusions important to your continued good health: • An abnormal thermogram is 10 times more significant as a future risk indicator for breast cancer than a first order family history.

• A persistent abnormal thermogram carries with it a 22x higher risk of future breast cancer.

• When used as a multimodal approach (clinical exam + mammography + thermography), 95% of early stage cancers will be detected.

• Extensive clinical trials have shown that breast thermography significantly augments the long term survival rates of its recipients by as much as 61%.

Even though much study has been done regarding breast imaging, there are other important applications of MIT supported by science. These include: • Inflammatory phenomena such as infection, musculoskeletal conditions, active arthritis, soft tissue injury or diabetic causes.

• Neurological conditions such as RSD, Raynauds Syndrome, nerve root irritation and referred neurological syndromes (i.e. sciatica).

• Arterial conditions such as blood flow, deep vein thrombosis and cardiac involvement.

Other clear research exists to use MIT for such conditions as: 1. Arteriosclerosis 2. Brachial Plexus Injury 3. Breast Disease 4. Bursitis 5. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 6. Cord Pain/Injury 7. Deep Vascular Disease 8. Disc Syndromes 9. External Carotid Insufficiency 10. Frozen Shoulder Syndrome 11. Headache Evaluation 12. Herniated Disc 13. Inflammatory Disease 14. Internal Carotid Insufficiency 15. Infectious Disease Shingles 16. Leprosy 17. Low -back Injury 18. Ligament Tear 19. Lupus 20. Malingering 21. Morton’s Neuroma 22. Myofascial Irritation 23. Muscle Tear

24. Musculoligamentous Spasm 25. Nerve Impingement 26. Nerve Root Irritation 27. Neuralgia 28. Neoplasia 29. Melanoma, Squamous Cell, Basal 30. Nutritional Disease 31. Diabetes 32. Peripheral Nerve Injury 33. Raynaud’s 34. Referred Pain Syndrome 35. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy 36. Ruptured Disc / Sprain/Strain 37. Stroke Screening 38. Sensory Loss 39. Skin Abnormalities 40. Temporal Arthritis 41. Trigger Points 42. TMJ Dysfunction 43. Tendonitis 44. Thyroid Disorders 45. Whiplash

With hundreds of research studies completed and more underway, MIT is here to stay as a clearly valuable tool to help prevent disease and evaluate certain health conditions.

Dr. Kenneth R. Hoffman, Director of SOPHIA Natural Health Center is a Doctor of Acupuncture, licensed in Rhode Island and Connecticut. He holds national certifications in Oriental Medicine and Chinese Herbology. He is a founding board member of the Institute for the Advancement of Medical Thermology (IAMT), where he trains doctors in this emerging technology. With many positive cases of treating suspicious thermographic patterns, he has developed specialized protocols and therapies to prevent and eliminate health risks. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 499 Federal Rd., Brookfield, CT 06804 www.SophiaNaturalHealth.com. (203) 740-9300.

See ad on page 21.

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Perspectives on Twenty Years of Breast Cancer Awareness

by Michelle Pouliot, ND

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s a 52 year-old-woman and a naturopathic physician who has specialized in women’s health for 20 years, I am acutely aware of how breast cancer affects our lives. We are inundated with breast cancer statistics, wrapped up in pink ribbons, saddened by widely publicized stories of celebrities’ breast cancer journeys, confused by changing recommendations for mammograms and self breast exams, and unsure of breast cancer causes, prevention and cures.

My patients have many questions about breast cancer. If there is no family history of breast cancer are they still at risk? Do mammograms cause breast cancer? Do hormone support therapies cause breast cancer? What lifestyle choices can help prevent breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosis in the United States.

The incidence of breast cancer increases with a woman’s age. Postmenopausal women account for 74% of diagnosed breast cancer. The statistic we all hear, “one out of every eight adult women will be diagnosed

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with breast cancer,” becomes true by the time we are in our eighties. Family history of breast cancer is found in only 5 to 10 percent of women. Women with a parent, sibling or child who has breast cancer are at twice the risk for developing the disease.

Women with a strong family history, who are positive for the genes BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53, have a 40 to 85 percent lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.

These statistics can be intimidating.

Breast cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States because of frequency of occurrence, and because mammograms are very effective at finding breast cancer. Mammograms detect about 90% of breast cancers and become more accurate as we age, when our breast tissue becomes less dense. In Connecticut, by law, a woman is entitled to have a breast ultrasound if a mammogram determines she has dense breast tissue. Mammograms have not been found to increase the risk of breast cancer, and are associated with an overall decreased risk of death from breast cancer.

When should we start having mam-

mograms? The American Cancer society recommends annual mammograms starting at the age of 40. More recent recommendations advise starting at 50 years old. I suggest patients make an informed decision about mammograms based on their individual concerns. Is there any family history? Do they have dense breast tissue? Are they confident with their own self breast exams and the clinical breast exams by their physicians? It’s not unusual for my patients to tell me they’re afraid to check their own breasts because they are lumpy and bumpy. Breast tissue texture is not smooth and uniform because breasts are composed of ductal and lobular tissue, connective and lymphatic tissue, fat, and beneath all that, muscle. I encourage patients to get to know their breast lumps and bumps, which we check together at their annual exams. Also keep in mind, for women still having their menstrual cycle, breast tissue changes during the cycle. Contrary to some research that says breast palpation exams are not effective for detection of breast changes, I’ve seen many women who were the first to notice something different about their breast, which thankfully, most of the time, is benign. For women who can’t do self breast exams, women with a family breast cancer history, and women on hormone replacement or hormonal birth control, I do recommend annual mammograms.

Some patients ask if breast thermography can be done in place of mammograms and ultrasound. Breast thermography was approved by the FDA in 1982 as a tool for detection of breast tissue irregularities. It is a technology of displaying temperature and vascular variation in breasts which can be useful for observing potential problematic changes to breast tissue. The interpretation of the thermograms relies on the expertise of the practitioner reading the results. I suggest that women who are interested in breast

thermography ask the physician who does their annual gynecological exams how to best incorporate it into their breast care plan; a plan which should include mammography for most women over 40.

Many of my patients have perimenopausal or menopausal concerns. Some women want to consider hormone replacement as part of their treatment plan. The question often arises if hormone replacement therapy will increase their risk of getting breast cancer.

In 2002, the Women’s Health Institute published findings that menopausal women on PremPro had more diagnosed breast cancer incidence then women not on PremPro, or women on Premarin alone. (Premarin is a combination of several estrogens from pregnant horse urine and synthetic progesterone (progestins)). Further follow-up on this study has shown that women on synthetic progesterone as part of their hormone therapy are at risk for more breast cancer. Studies also indicate that women who have taken birth control pills, which contain synthetic estrogens and progesterone, for 10 years or more, have a slightly higher breast cancer risk.

I’m often asked if bio-identical or natural hormones are safer than synthetic hormones.

This is a long, complicated, and highly debated topic. It is apparent that synthetic progesterone is problematic. It’s not entirely clear that natural hormones are safer. Even estrogen therapy slightly increases the risk of breast cancer. Estrogen and progesterone probably don’t cause breast cancer, but most breast cancers have estrogen and progesterone receptors that, when stimulated

On...Nutrition & Cancer The foundation of cancer prevention and treatment should start with nutritional and lifestyle changes. They have a powerful impact without unpleasant side effects

HolcareNutrition

Vicki Kobliner, MS RD | vicki@holcarenutrition.com

3 Hollyhock Rd. • Wilton, CT • 06897 • 203-834-9949 • holcarenutrition.com

Natural Nutmeg Magazine’s

“empowering Me...Naturally” W ellNess

CoNf ereNCe

November 11 & 12th, 2011, Connecticut Convention Center

For T i c ke t s g o t o www.e mp owe r i ng me na t u r a lly.ev entbrite.co m

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by these hormones, may increase the rate of breast cancer growth.

So the short answer to the hormone question is that any hormone therapy slightly increases breast cancer risk. Some of my patients still choose hormone replacement therapies because of the severity of their menopausal symptoms and sexual health concerns. For some women, improving the quality of their life with a well thought-out personalized hormonal support therapy, is the right health choice for them.

What lifestyle choices can we make to improve our breast health and possibly prevent breast cancer? As always, fresh, clean, nutritious food is the first and best medicine for ensuring vital health.

Vitamins, minerals and herbs may have a role in maintaining or balancing health but they’re a drop in the bucket compared to a healthy diet. Many studies confirm that a high intake of colorful fruits and vegetables decrease the risk of breast cancer recurrence in women who’ve had breast cancer, so they may play a role in prevention too.

Five servings of vegetables and fruits appears to be the daily minimum. Be sure to include the cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, and cabbage.

Regular exercise and good nutrition appear to be a powerful combination against breast cancer. A 2007 study that was published in an oncology journal reported that women with breast cancer who exercised 30 minutes, 6 days per week, and who ate 5 servings of vegetables and fruits daily, cut their risk of dying from breast cancer in half . There isn’t a drug available that can make that same claim.

Patients also ask how alcohol, sugar, or being overweight affects their chances of developing breast cancer. There is a definite relationship between the amount of alcohol women consume and increased risk. The more alcohol women drink, the greater the risk.

Some literature states 3 to 5 servings per week may be safe while other studies haven’t determined any amount is safe. Over-consumption of sugar also contributes to breast cancer risk, both because it can contribute to unhealthy body weight and can lead to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body is overwhelmed with excessive sugar and simple carbohydrate consumption. A high Body Mass Index (BMI) makes women more susceptible to insulin resistance and breast cancer. Maintaining an ideal body weight reduces breast cancer risk.

Better nutrition, less sugar and alcohol, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight helps protect us from breast cancer and other cancers, and helps prevent heart disease and diabetes, two

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additional serious health concerns that affect women. Again, food is our first medicine.

There are some supplements I often encourage patients to incorporate into their lifestyle. Green tea has been shown to be protective against breast cancer. Drinking 3 to 5 cups daily provides important hydration and powerful antioxidants. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil beneficially modify the body’s inflammation pathways, helping the immune system work well. I usually recommend 1000mg to 3000mg daily of a reputable brand. Vitamin D3 research has shown it is important in the prevention of breast cancer and improves the outcome for women diagnosed with breast cancer. I’ve checked the vitamin D levels of more than 500 patients in my practice. Only 75 women had optimal levels. I suggest women have their physicians include vitamin D3 with their regular lab work, and supplement appropriately.

Our increasing knowledge about breast cancer has provided us with more research, information, and treatment options, but it also has contributed to our fears. On one hand, our society perceives our breasts as an integral aspect of motherhood and sensuality and on the other hand, as a potential center for disease. I encourage women to consciously regard the sometimes overwhelming amount of information about breast cancer and about many other health challenges and choices that come at us every day. We need to know what holds true for us personally, so we can embrace our bodies and health with respect and optimism, not fear. A lifestyle and attitude of calm awareness empowers our minds and bodies in every way and creates an immense potential for healing. We can all give ourselves this gift no matter where we are in our journey to health.

Dr. Michelle J. Pouliot has been providing women with comprehensive naturopathic care for the past twenty years in Connecticut’s northwest corner. She recently opened the New Hartford Naturopathic Health Center LLC .The center can be reached at (860)2387983. See ad on page 34.

Dairy and Cancer:

A Connection That Not Even Organic Dairy Can Avoid

By Maribeth Abrams, MS, CNC

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he average American consumes about 600 pounds of dairy products per year – more than almost any country in the entire world.

Considering the fact that we consume so many dairy products, it’s no surprise that health-minded people are shifting toward organic versions of the popular creamy foods.

After all, the research is clear – conventionally-produced dairy contains pesticides, herbicides and bovine growth hormone, all of which are associated with increased risk for certain cancers.

But will shifting toward organic forms of dairy help prevent cancer – or does the consumption of organic dairy maintain its share of risk on human health? Let’s take a look.

Hormones designed to grow a 300 pound animal Look closely at your container of organic milk and you will see the phrase “no hormones added.” It’s true that organic dairy cows are not injected with growth hormones. However, organic milk contains loads of naturally-occurring hormones and growth factors – 39 to be exact.

How can this be? Well, think about it.

The purpose of all mammalian milk is to rapidly grow a baby. For example, human breast-milk is designed to double an infant’s weight in one year. Cow’s milk is designed to grow a 40 pound calf into a 300 pound cow or steer in one year – that’s multiplying a calf’s weight by nearly eight in just one year!

Indeed, the ideal ratio of fat, carbohydrate and protein exists in each mammal’s milk to properly grow its offspring. However, in addition to these macronutrients, an entire host of growth hormones and growth factors are also present to ensure that growth.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) One of these growth factors is called

IGF-1, and both humans and cows naturally produce it. However, it is found in much higher levels in cows and therefore in cows’ milk. IGF-1 stimulates cell division, is naturally high during the years of puberty (e.g. female breast growth), then tapers off as we age.

Research shows that IGF-1 is required for tumor formation, accelerates malignant cell growth, and accelerates the ability of cancer cells to spread to other organs. And not surprisingly, studies also show that consumption of whole, reduced-fat, and skim milk raise IGF-1 levels in adults.

As mentioned, there is a direct association between the consumption of dairy and one’s level of IGF-1. To take it a step further, there is also a direct correlation between one’s IGF-1 level and the diagnosis of breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Just how much of an association? One study conducted by Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that post-menopausal women with the highest levels of IGF-1 had three times the risk of breast cancer as those with the lowest levels. This same study also found that premenopausal women with the highest levels

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of IGF-1 had seven times the risk of breast cancer as those with the lowest levels.

As for prostate cancer, a study conducted by researchers at Harvard University found that men with elevated IGF-1 were up to four times more likely to develop prostate cancer than men with normal levels, and for men in their 60s, the risk for prostate cancer was eight times more likely than for those with normal levels.

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer reported that “the association between dairy products and prostate cancer is one of the most consistent dietary predictors for prostate cancer in the published literature.”

So, the next time you reach for organic cottage cheese, yogurt or milk, keep in mind that you are consuming a product containing growth hormones and growth factors that are designed by nature to

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grow a 300 pound animal in one year. Also keep in mind that when it comes to cancer prevention, rapid growth of cells is something we definitely don’t want.

Avoiding Lactose: It’s not just for the intolerant anymore!

Lactose is the sugar found in milk; it’s what makes mammalian milk sweet. Indeed, it’s one of the many reasons that babies like to nurse. Babies, in fact, make an enzyme called lactase which helps break down lactose. Interestingly, human production of lactase tends to decrease around the age of four – the age upon which weaning has usually occurred. Simply stated, once a baby has weaned and

survives on solid food, there just isn’t any need for our bodies to continue to produce lactase. This is why the vast majority of the human population becomes “lactose intolerant” after childhood.

Even if you are a member of the world’s minority that is not latose intolerant, consider this: the more dairy you consume, the more lactose you consume. And research shows that the more lactose you consume, the higher your risk for ovarian cancer.

For example, the Iowa Women’s Health Study found that women who consume the most lactose had a 60% higher risk for ovarian cancer when compared with those who consumed the least. Interestingly, Sweden – the country with the lowest rate of lactose intolerance in the world – also has the highest consumption of dairy in the world along with, you guessed it, the highest rates of ovarian cancer in the world.

Considering the preponderance of research linking dairy consumption to ovarian cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer, it is time to seriously question our nation’s dietary recommendations of two to three servings of dairy per day.

And while we’re at it, let’s remember the most basic of biology lessons that we learned in kindergarten: mammals nurse their young, and then they wean.

Maribeth Abrams, MS is a Certified Nutritionist, Certified Lifestyle Educator, and author of two cookbooks loaded with “cheezey” nondairy recipes. She has been dairy-free for nearly 20 years and is the mother of two teens dairy-free since conception. Please refer to issue August 2011 issue for Maribeth’s article on how dairy consumption promotes osteoporosis. See ad on page 12.

NaturalNutmeg.com

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Thermography for Breast Cancer Screening

By Ann Aresco, ND

P

revention, prevention, prevention is the chant of everyone who has anything to do with medicine today. It couldn’t be more logical than that, but it isn’t always as easy as it sounds. There are many ways for patients to be preventative, most of which they have to figure out on their own. Thermography is one of the ways to supplement breast cancer prevention efforts. I say “supplement,” because thermography is a screening test.

Tests don’t actually prevent anything; tests determine whether you have reaped the rewards of a preventative lifestyle or not.

Alternative to Mammogram?

The US Department of Health and Human Services released new recommendations for screening mammography in 2009. The Department previously recommended that women begin having annual mammograms between 35 and 40 years of age. The new recommendations for mammography screening suggest tests begin when a woman is 50 years old and be done once every 2 years (or annually for patients with higher risk factors). Many doctors and patients were alarmed with this new recommendation.

Thermography They shouldn’t be. First we have to define “screening.” Screening is for those women This screening technology fits right into who don’t have any known risk of breast the naturopathic doctrine of “do no harm.” cancer. These women do not need to be Thermography is 100% safe, completely exposed to radiation starting at a young age non-invasive, has no radiation and does not Left breast cancer – www.nemedtherm.com and year after year to screen for breast cantouch the breast. Thermography is a scan that cer. The women that need yearly mammograms are those with the detects levels of temperature, in this case, in the breast tissue. These risks of getting breast cancer. Thermography should not be considlevels of temperature can show if there is something irregular going ered an alternative to mammograms. But it is certainly an option that on. In the case of breast scanning, one scan is done for a baseline can be utilized in addition to the mammogram and as an alternative and then the following scans are done to determine if the temperafor those years in between mammograms for patients who want to ture pattern has changed from the previous test or base line. Any have an annual screening but not be exposed to more radiation. Adirregularities can indicate the need for further testing and possible ditionally, I would highly recommend any women who are not doing intervention. If there is an irregularity found, the thermography will any mammography for whatever reason should use thermography for target exactly where other tests and steps need to be focused. breast cancer screening. Breast thermography will provide an early

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indication of any abnormalities allowing for further testing, diagnosis and treatment. Prevention also applies to finding problems early on in order to prevent the need for more invasive treatments which can be avoided with early detection. Thermography fills that purpose.

Is It Covered By Insurance?

This is almost always the first question. Thermography is not currently covered by insurance. Legislation was introduced this year in Connecticut to mandate that insurance companies cover this testing.

As with many first attempts at legislative changes, it did not make it all the way through the process although there is significant support from the representatives. Thermography is no more expensive than a mammogram and may detect abnormalities in breast tissue before mammograms and ultrasounds. The insurance companies could consider covering this without legislation, and should, as the early detection of abnormal cells means a less aggressive treatment plan, which can save the insurance companies millions by averting the need for cancer care treatments, not to mention less suffering and better outcome for the patient. I’m sure the legislation will be sent through again and again until it becomes law. But ladies, please don’t wait for legislation. It took medicine 40 years to decide that penicillin was a good idea. This technology that can help us discover early-on if we have an issue that needs to be addressed is available and affordable now.

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Huffinton post Oct 2010 “The Best Breast Test: The Promise of Thermography”, Christiane Northrup, MD. Every year when Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October) comes around I am saddened and surprised that thermography hasn’t become more popular. Part of this is my mindset. I’d rather focus on breast health and ways to prevent breast cancer at the cellular level than put the emphasis on testing and retesting until you finally do find something to poke, prod, cut out or radiate. That’s why I call October Breast Health Awareness Month, not Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I understand that mammography has been the gold standard for years. Doctors are the most familiar with this test, and many believe that a mammogram is the best test for detecting breast cancer early. But it’s not. Studies show that a thermogram identifies precancerous or cancerous cells earlier, and produces unambiguous results, which cuts down on additional testing – and it doesn’t hurt the body. Isn’t this what women really want?

Related Links: Dr. Mercola on Thermography: http://www.youtube.com/user/mercola?blend=1&ob=5#p/ search/0/2_jlvXZyOrg www.thermographyonline.org To schedule an appointment for Thermography at Dr. Aresco’s office call 860-829-0707. Ann Aresco, ND, ProNatural Physicians Group LLC. 355 New Britain Rd., Kensington, CT 06037. See ad on page 35.

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From Fried to Revived: How to Take Your Power Back An Interview with Dr. Joan Borysenko

Keynote Speaker at The Empowering Me...Naturally Wellness Conference November 11th, 2011

by Karen M. Rider, M.A

T

wo symbols represent the Chinese character for change: danger and opportunity. It’s a fitting image for the fastpaced world we live in, today. “The challenge,” says Dr. Joan Borysenko, a distinguished pioneer in integrative medicine, “lies in how we cope. We can choose to helplessly shrink from change or we can choose to grow through it, thriving in the opportunities it presents.”

From the back porch at her home in the Colorado mountains, with her new puppy nibbling geraniums at her feet, Dr. Borysenko shared the wisdom she has culled over the course of her career. After earning her graduate degree in medical sciences at Harvard Medical School, she completed post-doctoral training in cancer cell biology. Following the death of her father, from cancer, Dr. Borysenko became more interested in the person with the illness than with the disease, itself. She completed a second fellowship in behavioral medicine under the tutelage of Dr. Herbert Benson. Dr. Borysenko went on to receive a medical foundation fellowship in psychoneuroimmunology, the study of the relationship between the mind, the body and the immune system.

In this spirited and informative interview, Dr. Borysenko teaches that just because “the world is in crisis, we don’t have to be. You can bounce back from adversity and create your best life.”

Karen: What are the dangers and opportunities you envision for the world as we navigate through these chaotic times?

Dr. Borysenko: As I travel around the world during these times of great uncertainty, I see people acting hastily, becoming polarized and giving up hope. They are depressed and despondent.

The danger in allowing this to happen is several fold. First, during times of intense change fear rises and our coping responses become more primitive. Fear gives rise to a more child-like way of dealing with the world. People polarize to different sides and different points of view. It happens within families and social organizations and between political and religious institutions.

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

When people don’t look for common ground, fear escalates and protective instincts go haywire.

When people let fear drive their choices another danger surfaces-- unclear thinking. When afraid, people develop ‘ready, fire, aim’ mentality. They do things just to get them done when the timing is not right or they have not thought through the consequences or how others will be affected. The better response would be to allow ourselves to match the heart with the mind to find inner knowing. In this way, we aren’t reactive, but are responsive to our circumstances. From this place, mentally and emotionally, we can revive hope.

Karen: What opportunity is hiding behind the chaos experienced in the world?

Dr. Borysenko: What’s hiding is the opportunity for growth on a personal and global level. At these tipping-point times, the best that can happen is that people and organizations make a jump in consciousness. Sometimes it takes an enormous event— crisis—before we can make this shift to a higher order and create a world we all can live with. Sure, we can say the war shouldn’t happen, the oil shouldn’t be covering the ocean, but these things

happened. What shift will we make, personally and globally, to move beyond all that led up to those events?

Karen: On the personal or individual level, why do some people soar through adversity while others crash?

Dr. Borysenko: A great question. Fifty percent of resilience is genetic, as is happiness. Some people are born with sunnier temperaments and others cloudier. But— and it is a big but-- you are not limited by genetics, shaped but not limited. You can learn to be more resilient and happier, too. Most people know, or have heard a story, about resilient children, those who were born into, but made it out of dire circumstances and had success in life. The key that unlocked the potential in these children is some source of inspiration, like a mentor. When we look at resilient adults, we tend to call this social support.

So, where people can experience the shelter of one another and have examples of others who have shined through tough situations, then we find resilience.

Another key to resilience for adults is being realistic. There is a distinction between realistic optimism and ‘cheap optimism,’ a term coined by Cornell West, from Princeton University. The latter does not help anyone. We see cheap optimism when we encounter people who ‘put what they want out to the universe’, a job for example, then they sit in their chair waiting for it. A person with realistic optimism is one who puts their intention into action.

I call it optimizing realism when someone looks at the fact that they lost their job and they use that event to take a careful look at their gifts and talents and skills to offer and how they might apply these in the world.

Karen: How does a resilient, stress-hardy person think and act?

Dr. Borysenko: In the research on resilience, we also see that these individuals still want to connect with and give to other people. Staying connected makes people feel better and feel empowered. This is what the Dali Lama calls wise selfishness:

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You do something for someone else and it helps you just as much as it helps them.

Resilient people are also able to tap into creativity. When your world crashes on you, narcissism sets in. You worry about your life, your family, what you will do next. You cannot tap into creative solutions. Once you get out of the orbit of ‘I-me-mine’ you can see possibilities.

Karen: One of the secrets of resilience that you write about is ‘the belief that life is meaningful.’ Is religious faith a necessary condition for resilience?

Dr. Borysenko: For some people it may be religion, for others it is more philosophical. The key is for people to sense meaning or learning or growth in what they are experiencing.

Karen: How are improvisation and resilience are related.

Dr. Borysenko: Consider, politics aside, John McCain who was a POW for five years. He is a splendid example of resilience. I don’t know him, but he has a deep faith and a sense of humor. Resilient people have a very good sense of humor.

Laretta LaRoache, humorist and positive psychologist, has some wonderful books on the subject. When we do a lecture together, we sing the blues—like an old honky-tonk song. Literally, we teach people to complain in a creative fashion

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

and it gives them some distance from their troubles. Most often, they realize just how absurd their thinking is. As Loretta says, “You recognize life is a joke and you’re it.”

back to the world around you are vital to a person’s ability to think more clearly and create solutions to the stressors they’ve experienced.

Karen: Most of us don’t do anything about stress until the full-force is upon us. Why don’t we do what we know is good for us? Second, what should we be doing to minimize stress and cultivate resilience?

Karen: What is your favorite way to banish burnout?

Dr. Borysenko: In my view, the cuttingedge of Integrative Medicine deals with exactly these questions. I think part of the answer has to do with the Western mindset. We are really good at alienating ourselves from other people, burying ourselves in work and the pursuit of material possessions, while starving ourselves of time for what really matters in life. When we lose the material goods, then what? We have time and nothing meaningful to fill it with. We have the kind of social crisis we are experiencing, now.

What can people do? Step out of the past and pull back from thinking and worrying about the future. Be in present moment awareness. Enough cannot be said about the value of mindfulness as a way of walking through life, paying attention and being in deep relationship with the world around you. We truly need this. Of course, it is best to have these practices before stress hits. Even in the midst of crisis, some form of physical exercise, time for solitude or meditation, social support, and giving

Dr. Borysenko: I spend a lot of time in my yard and garden. There are many children in my family and I spend time with them whenever I can. Our pets are a big part of our life. Also, I encourage anyone to go back to the places and activities that have brought them joy and filled them with energy. Play. Life is too short.

Dr. Joan Borysenko is author or co-author of more than 13 books, including the New York Times best seller, Minding the Body, Mending the Mind and her most recent title Fried: Why You Burn Out & How To Revive. To see Joan live at the “Empowering Me...Naturally” conference on November 11, 2011, visit http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

Dr. Borysenko was interviewed by Karen M. Rider, M.A., a freelance writer who covers stories and subjects that educate, enlighten and entertain. She also writes fiction that explores human and spiritual potential. She may be reached at 860-638-8140 or go to karenmrider.com.

Healthy Self

Dr. Lauren Gouin, ND

Cellular Health...Whole Body Health

T

he building blocks of our bodies are often forgotten when looking at a whole person and their health. These microscopic basic components of life seem so abstract when someone is complaining of muscle pain or fatigue, let alone brain fog or swelling in their joints. All life begins with cells and so health and disease ultimately can be evaluated on this level.

Cell Membrane The barrier between the environment and us starts with a thin layer known as the cell membrane. Within this fatty membrane are proteins, channels and receptors all allowing for communication between the environment and the cell. Research has shown that the viscosity and pliability of the cell membrane can be impacted by the nutrients taken into our bodies. Also, the quality of our cell membranes translates to the effectiveness of cell receptors sitting in the membrane.

The types of foods, especially fats that we consume, are the building blocks we give our body to make our cell membranes.

The more omega-3 essential fatty acids we integrate into our cell membranes, the more anti-inflammatory and flexible our cell membranes become. This pliability of our cells allows receptors to be more prominent and easier seen by neurotransmitters and hormones. Research has found that insulin receptors and neurotransmitters improve function with an increase in omega-3 essential fatty acids. Cell membranes have become a major focus in health research as we learn more about the importance in signaling molecules and communication between cells on the surface of our cells.

to pollution is dilution of the space between our cells or extracellular space. Essentially, if there are toxins, hormones or inflammation outside of the cells, the body floods the area with water to protect the cells, but in the process dehydrates them.

Extracellular and intracellular water balance can be measured with bioimpedance analysis. Using technology similar to that of an EKG, the water levels inside cells and outside cells can be tested to assess the balance of water. This test is performed at a physician’s office and typically takes less than two minutes using electrodes placed on the limbs. How is your intracellular space?

The balance of water inside and outside your cells is a good first clue!

Mitochondria: Cellular Energy Organelles are the organs of cells. The mitochondria are often identified as the main organelle for energy. This powerhouse of the cell creates the most basic form of energy, ATP. They function using specific nutrients to fuel every cell and thus the whole body.

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified in many conditions, including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Autism. Fatigue, muscle pain and brain fog are among some of the symptoms that can be associated with mitochondrial fatigue. Unfortunately these are the symptoms of hundreds of other conditions. How do you know if you have mitochondrial fatigue?

Evaluation of mitochondrial function typically involves checking levels of specific amino acids in either blood or urine to

assure proper ratios. Also, specific products from mitochondria can be measured. The most common test, done by the majority of conventional labs, looks at ratios of alanine and lysine. Proper balance between these two levels will speak to the health of cell’s mitochondria. Assessing mitochondrial function can help determine if it is the cause of vague symptoms of imbalance.

Specific nutrients are needed to help the mitochondria work. Magnesium, CoQ10, carnitine and D-Ribose are all indicated for reviving fatigued mitochondria. Used in conjunction, they are extremely effective at improving symptoms and function of this organelle. Levels of specific nutrients may also need to be assessed to ensure adequate doses. Levels of carnitine and magnesium can be tested in blood tests as well. Many medications and even caffeine can deplete the body of magnesium, therefore an individual’s need for magnesium may be greater than a standard dose. Nutrient support for the mitochondria ensures its function and a healthy cell.

The cell exemplifies the beautiful design of the body and how responsive it can be to healthy lifestyle and nutritional support.

Happy cells offer a great foundation for a happy body.

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 37.

Intracellular Space: The Start to Detoxification Beyond the membrane of the cell, the intracellular space is home to all of the organelles, DNA and cytoplasm that are responsible for all of the functions of the cell.

The quality of this space can be influenced substantially by external factors. Toxic burden, hormone imbalance, dehydration, and a poor diet all can shift the balance of water in our bodies. Cells can become functionally dehydrated because our body’s solution NaturalNutmeg.com

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Supplements 101

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

Breast Cancer Risks & Prevention The good news is that breast cancer is a disease of long duration, and we have daily opportunities over a lifetime to make decisions that will encourage the body to get rid of cancer. ~ John R. Lee, M.D., “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast”

Cancer Does breast cancer run in your family? Did you know that breast cancer is the second most common cancer found in women, accounting for one of every three diagnoses? While this devastating disease calls for physician guidance, you may be able to prevent it by empowering yourself with numerous lifestyle choices and knowledge of certain nutrients.

Breast Cancer Defined New cells constantly replace most body cells, requiring the replaced cells to die after a certain period of time. As new cells grow, they differentiate into the special type of tissue they were meant to be.

While there are numerous types of breast cancer, it generally occurs when breast tissue cells, which lose their ability to differentiate and die at a genetically predetermined pace, divide and grow without control and accumulate into a mass of extra tissue called a tumor. A malignant/cancerous tumor grows by eliciting new blood vessel growth and diverting the blood supply and nutrients from the surrounding healthy tissues (called angiogenesis). Usually more than one “insult” from a carcinogen (which may be a hormone, chemical, virus, radiation, and/or trauma) causes the damage to

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a normal cell’s genetic material that causes it to develop into a cancerous cell.

By the time a malignant breast tumor can be felt as a lump, it may have been growing for 8-12 years. Preventive measures such as a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle, nutritional supplementation, and exercise, are of primary importance against the development of cancer.

The Conventional Approach Traditional medicine focuses on reducing the risk of dying from breast cancer. To promote early detection and treatment, conventional medicine strongly emphasizes annual clinical breast exams, mammograms, other diagnostic tests (i.e., sonograms, MRIs, and digital infrared thermal imaging), and monthly self-examinations. Unfortunately, mammogram frequency guidelines are varied, controversial & confusing: (1) American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists- women aged 40+ with average risk should be offered them annually (previously said women in their 40s could be screened every 1-2 years); (2) American Cancer Society/American College of Radiology- women aged 40+ with average risk should receive them annually; (3) U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2009) - women and their doctors should discuss whether to start mammograms in their 40s based on specific risk/benefit analyses (previously recommended women 40+ should be tested every 1-2 years); women aged 50-74 with average risk should receive them every 2 years.

Early detection is critical because early-stage invasive cancer is considered very treatable since the tumor is relatively small and the cancer cells have not spread to the lymph nodes. A tumor is far

less treatable, however, once it has greatly enlarged or spread to other organs (liver, lungs, bones).

If breast cancer is detected, a multimodality approach is ideal.

This approach would incorporate nutritional supplementation, dietary modification, and detoxification. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and/or vaccine therapy may also be warranted.

The Natural Approach - Key Breast Cancer Risks Some breast cancer risk factors are beyond your control. Women in their mid-30s to mid-40s have the highest escalating risk. The disease occurs more frequently in industrialized countries. Europeans and North Americans are thought to have five times more breast cancer than non-American Asians because their genes cause them to process hormones differently. Women whose mothers, sisters, or daughters had breast cancer before age 65 have at least twice the risk of getting it themselves. Those who become pregnant after age 30 have as much as five times more risk than women who have had a child before age 24. In the January 2007 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers reported that “a substantial fraction of breast cancers” can be attributed to extensive mammographic breast density. Women in the study who had at least 75% dense breasts showed five times more likelihood of cancer than women who had less than 10% density.

Although you may not be able to control age, geography, or genetics, there are some things you can do to minimize your breast cancer risk. Eat a healthy diet that is low in refined carbohydrates/ sugars, trans- and saturated fats, and most soy products, but high in stable monounsaturated fats (olive/canola oils), fish, antioxidants, cruciferous (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale) and other vegetables, and low-sugar fruits. Exercise regularly to control stress and maintain a healthy body weight.

Avoid excess estrogen [e.g., from oral contraceptives, pesticides, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)], milk from cows given recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH), excessive alcohol, underwire bras, and antiperspirants. Make a concerted effort to avoid X-rays (especially of the chest), which have cumulative effects.

Finally, visit your doctor regularly to ensure proper management of your blood sugar, thyroid, and hormones. Both insulin resistance and hypothyroidism increase breast cancer risk. ’Estrogen dominance‘ over progesterone levels, and DHEA & melatonin deficiencies, also increase risk.

Cutting-Edge Researched Nutrients Like appropriate doses of vitamins A and D, the plant-derived nutrients discussed below may lower your risk of breast cancer.

Natural Transdermal Progesterone Cream In “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life”, John R. Lee, M.D., writes that breast cancer is unique in that excess estrogen

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can promote and stimulate it, and natural, bioidentical progesterone cream supplementation can slow and stop it.’ Progesterone cream restores balance with estrogen levels by reestablishing normal physiologic levels (what your body would normally make) of bioavailable progesterone.’ Select a product that contains a total of 9001,000mg of progesterone in two ounces, or approximately 20 mg in ¼ teaspoon‘, ideally from one of the companies that Dr. Lee recommends, such as Products of Nature, Emerita, or LifeFlo.

I3C (indole-3-carbinol)/ DIM (diindolylmethane) Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) from cruciferous vegetables is especially effective at simultaneously detoxifying and blocking activation of dietary and environmental carcinogens. It switches on protective genes while switching off factors that contribute to inflammation and cancer formation.

I3C converts to a compound known as diindolylmethane (DIM), which many scientists believe is responsible for many of I3C’s protective effects. For example, numerous lab and animal studies have established DIM’s ability to block angiogenesis and dramatically increase the rate of programmed breast cancer cell death.

Sulforaphane Molecules known as free radicals can damage cells and cause cancer by wearing

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down the immune system. Several studies have documented the cancer-preventive activity of sulforaphane, a chemical in cruciferous vegetables (including broccoli sprouts), which combats the injurious effects of free radicals by switching on a set of antioxidant genes and enzymes in specific immune cells. Sulforaphane thus can control many cancer-related events, including carcinogen detoxification, promoting cancer cell death, blocking the cell cycle required for cancer cell replication, preventing tumor invasion into healthy tissue, and battling metastasis.

Resveratrol

Found in more than 70 plant species, including red grapes, many reports have shown that resveratrol can prevent or slow the progression of cancer. Resveratrol specifically appears to be a promising chemopreventive agent for both hormonedependent and hormone-independent breast cancers. It has displayed antioxidant activity and the ability to prevent gene mutation that can lead to cancer. In fact, it provides greater protection against DNA damage than vitamins C, E, or beta-carotene, restores glutathione levels (which some consider to be the most essential antioxidant), and greatly reduces inflammation, which is linked to tumor promotion.

Dosage, delivery method, tumor origin, and other components of the diet could all contribute to the efficacy of resveratrol treatment.

Curcumin Curcumin is a polyphenol in turmeric that has been used in traditional Indian medicine for more than 3000 years.

Hundreds of studies have shown that this potent, safe antioxidant protects against cancer-causing inflammation, and is particularly chemopreventive in hormoneindependent breast cancer (the most difficult to treat). In fact, curcumin targets ten causative factors involved in cancer development.

With respect to curcumin and cancer data she reviewed, Razelle Kurzrock, M.D., professor at the well-respected University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, stated, “It was clear that this agent was just as potent at killing tumor cells in the lab as any experimental drug I’d seen from pharmaceutical companies.”

Human clinical studies have shown that a patented curcumin formulation (BCM-95) greatly enhances the bioavailability of this nutrient, which is generally difficult to absorb. This form not only delivers up to 7 times better absorption than ordinary 95% standardized curcumin, but also remains in the bloodstream for 8-12 hours, almost twice as long as conventional supplements.

Conclusion According to a 2010 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services study, Con-

necticut has the second highest incidence of breast cancer in the U.S. If you believe you are at risk for breast cancer and wish to lower that risk using chemopreventive nutrients, empower yourself by seeing an alternative practitioner with an extensive history of working with them successfully.

The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Unless otherwise stated herein by John Lee, M.D., or otherwise supported by specific research, the natural remedies discussed herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

1

Submitted by Michael Dworkin, P.D.,M.S., a Registered Pharmacist and State Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CT Certification No.232), with J. Erika Dworkin, Certified Health Coach and Dip.C.N./Board Cert.

Holistic Nutrition (pending). Owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178, 378 West Middle Turnpike, Manchester), Pharmacist Dworkin has been guiding patients since 1956 and is available for consultation by appointment. Erika is available to speak to groups. All statements in this article are research-based and references are available upon request. See ad on page 13.

Don’t miss Dr. Michael Dworkin’s presentation on “Cancer Prevention & Immunity” at

the Natural Nutmeg Empowering Me... Naturally conference on November 12th, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Register at http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

NaturalNutmeg.com

27

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)...What is it?

By Helene Pulnik, ND

D

o you regularly experience stomach bloating, cramping, diarrhea, constipation or gas?

If so, you are not alone. You may be suffering from a condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS. This is a very common condition that effects more than 30 to 55 million people in the United States and results in 2.5 to 3.5 million office visits every year.

Studies suggest that at any one time 10-15% of the population has IBS. However, only a small percentage of these people will seek professional help. IBS is more common in women (14-24%) than men (5-19%).

IBS is normally characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits, and no specific disorder to point to as the cause. IBS is called a functional disorder, which means that there is no sign of disease when the colon is examined, but the bowel isn’t working as it should. IBS is not a new problem and has been around for hundreds of years. In the late 1800s it was referred to as mucous colitis and still has many names, including spastic colon, nervous colon, and irritable colon. It is often a chronic problem with symptoms appearing several times a day to several times a week to several times a month.

About 50 to 60% of people with IBS report that their symptoms arise after eating a meal, giving rise to the theory that food sensitivity may be the culprit. Therefore, foods in the diet may be the main source of all of the symptoms of IBS, including pain, bloating, abdominal discomfort, gas, and alterations in bowel habit.

Some of the most common foods that are likely to cause IBS symptoms are sugar, dairy products, wheat, eggs, soy, yeast, salicylates, corn, and alcohol. Other potential food triggers include fatty foods, caffeinated drinks, sugar, beans, onions, and raw fruits and vegetables.

IBS symptoms are very common. While abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort are the main symptoms of IBS, symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have constipation, which means hard, difficult-to-pass, or infrequent bowel 28

Natural Nutmeg October 2011

movements. Often these people report straining and cramping when trying to have a bowel movement but cannot eliminate any stool, or they are able to eliminate only a small amount. If they are able to have a bowel movement, it may have mucus in it, which is a fluid that moistens and protect passages in the digestive system. Some people with IBS experience diarrhea, which is frequent, loose, watery, stools. People with diarrhea frequently feel an urgent and uncontrollable need to have a bowel movement. Other people with IBS alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Sometimes people find that their symptoms subside for a few months and then return, while others report a constant worsening of symptoms over time.

There are safe and effective naturopathic medical options that can significantly reduce the symptoms of IBS. There is no need to suffer with this condition.

Naturopathic medicine to treat IBS includes testing and treatment of the health of the gut, including testing and treatment for leaky gut, bacterial and yeast overgrowth, and the ability to properly digest food. Food sensitivity testing and treatment with Advanced Allergy Therapy also is important in helping patients reintroduce foods into the diet without creating IBS reactions.

Nutritional counseling, detoxification of the gut and Colon Hydrotherapy are standard Naturopathic care for IBS. Naturopathic doctors are highly educated in these therapies and their uses to treat many medical problems, including IBS. Detoxification is crucial for the healthy function of the gut for many reasons. Prescription antibiotics wipe out the population of good flora from the gut, allowing yeast and bacterial overgrowth.

Common OTC medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin can cause irritation and inflammation in the gut. IBS can be the result of these factors along with the processed-food SAD diet (Standard American Diet), stress, lack of sleep, and the fast paced lifestyles we all lead.

It is important to be able to distinguish between IBS and problems with true organic origins. Some serious symptoms that should be examined by a physician are: increasing pain at night,

pain that disturbs sleep, red blood in the stool or black stools, fever and/or weight loss. These symptoms describe conditions that are more serious and should be evaluated by your doctor. Your naturopathic doctor may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and care if necessary.

IBS, though problematic to the individual because of its decrease in quality of life, does not lead to a life-threatening disease or a shortened life span. Naturopathic medical care is tailored to each patient’s needs, with ongoing support in a caring environment.

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

Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, Lac is a board certified, licensed Naturopathic Physician with more than 25 years of experience as a healthcare professional. She currently practices in Glastonbury, Ct. www.naturopathicwellness.com. See ad on page 39.

Visit us at our booth at the Natural Nutmeg Empowering Me... Naturally conference on November 12th, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Register at http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

• Personology • Science of the 52 cards • Numerology • Astrology Personalized Reports & Readings for Individuals, Couples and Businesses.

Mary Anne Costerella, MA, LADC, is a licensed psychotherapist offering clinical and metaphysical therapies to provide an integrative approach to the art of transformation.

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

29

The Cancer/Sugar Connection:

How Sweet It Isn’t

by Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N

F

ifty years ago, a cancer diagnosis was only spoken about in hushed tones, and was never a topic of open and frank discussion. Things have changed so dramatically since then, that today, once a cancer patient is told of his options, frequent discussions with friends and family, and research on the internet is the norm. During treatment, all types of support are now offered and advertised, including counseling, Reiki, and makeovers to help make the therapy and their aftereffects more bearable.

We follow up with benefit walks, swims and runs, and buy pink or differently colored products that give back dollars to cancer research. No longer whispered, the battle against cancer is loud and aggressive, but on one subject the silence remains deafening. Whether it pertains to prevention or treatment, sugar intake and its relationship to

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cancer is rarely discussed by the professionals or caregivers we rely on to guide us on this journey.

Almost a century ago, a cell biologist named Otto Warburg won the Nobel Prize for his discovery that normal cells and cancer cells use energy differently for growth.

While normal cells require oxygen to change the glucose from sugar into energy, cancer cells use an oxygen free fermentation pathway that is less efficient. They are glucose hogs and require much more sugar than typical cells. At the same time they are creating less energy, they are producing fatigue inducing lactic acid as a byproduct. This may be why cancer patients frequently waste away despite high calorie intake, and suffer extreme exhaustion. Only a small percentage of the calories they ingest are actually turned into energy.

The expression “Sugar Feeds Cancer” simplifies a much more complex relationship between glucose, insulin and cancer, but for those who doubt that the sweet stuff has a role in cancer growth and development the following facts should be quite convincing.

PET Scans The use of PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans to assess the activity or recurrence of cancer is proof of cancer’s ravenous appetite for sugar. PET scans are used to pinpoint cancers through the use of a radioactive compound which is either consumed or injected into the body. The very vehicle used to carry the radioactivity into the cell is a sugar molecule, specifically because cancer cells absorb up to 40 times more sugar than healthy cells do, taking in that much more radioactivity as well. If cancer cells were not sugar lovers, the PET scan would not be an effective technology.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 When we eat sugars, whether in the form of sweets, starchy foods, or fruits, our bodies produce insulin to bind up the glucose and bring it into the cells. We also produce a hormone called Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), in response to upsurges in insulin. So the more sugar we eat, the more

IGF-1 we make, and the more the tumor grows. Increases in IGF-1 have been implicated in multiple cancers including breast, lung and prostate.

Diabetes Diabetics are at double the risk for cancers of the liver and pancreas, and increased risk of other cancers such as breast, colon and bladder. An expert consensus from the American Diabetes Association and the American Cancer Society demonstrated this linkage, although they could not explain whether diabetes caused the increase in cancer, or the two diseases shared common predisposing causes such as lifestyle or genetics. However, other studies underscore the role of foods with a high glycemic load (GL) in the onset of cancer. Foods with a high GL are those that have a greater effect on blood sugar and insulin, and research tells us that people who eat a high GL diet are at increased risk for cancer. High GL foods include sugars, and refined, processed carbohydrates.

Ketogenic or Low Carbohydrate Diet Cancer cells must have glucose to grow, but healthy cells can survive on energy produced from other sources when glucose is unavailable. In multiple studies, some using animals and others in humans, cancer development was halted or reversed in more subjects when a very low carbohydrate diet

was adopted. The normal cells were able to survive and thrive on a diet of fats and proteins but the cancer cells could not. The ketogenic diet is a very specific and tightly controlled nutritional therapy that is used for people with seizure disorders unresponsive to medications. Small studies of this diet in children and adults with cancer, including glioblastomas (malignant brain tumors) show promising results. Less strict but still low carbohydrate protocols have also reported encouraging outcomes.

The biochemical relationship between sugar, insulin and cancer is undeniable, as is the fact that people consuming Western diets, high in processed grains and refined sugars such as high fructose corn syrup, are at increased cancer risk. Whether we know exactly which metabolic processes make this happen seems almost beside the point- what matters is making lifestyle changes that can help prevent or retard the growth of cancer.

Limiting sugar is an obvious first step.

Submitted by 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 13.

NaturalNutmeg.com

31

Live Your Life on Purpose:

Why Life Coaching & Self-Guided Neuro-Plasticity Can Help You Shine

By Tiffany Chion

L

ast month we looked at why making positive changes in our lives can be challenging, and how getting a little help from a personal coach can be the boost we need. This month, we explore how coaching and self-guided neuroplasticity can literally reshape our brain structure, dramatically altering our experience of life and the world around us.

I want to make changes in my life, but why not do it alone—why use a lifecoach? In recent years, neuroscientists made a great discovery: “Indeed, adults can learn!” It sounds funny, but it was previously thought that adults had a low capacity to change and remodel their brains (i.e., “An old dog can’t learn new tricks”).

Recent discoveries based on new imaging technology revealed that adult brains are much more plastic, that is, capable of changing from experience, than previously thought. The challenge, then, is to figure out how to deliberately use this plasticity to remodel how we think and feel, so we can liberate ourselves from fear and doubt and let ourselves shine. As it turns out, neuroscientists are fans of life coaching as a way of remodeling our brains: “Coaching is…a way of facilitating self-directed neuro-plasticity,” (neuroscientist Jeffrey Schwartz, 2007).

When we encounter a speed bump on the road of life, an internal debate oc-

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curs between two regions of our brains.

On one side, we have the frontal cortex, which is the brain region where pragmatic thought processes take place. On the other side, we have the amygdala, which is where habitual emotional responses (such as anger, fear, panic, and pessimism) are rooted. Unfortunately, for many of us, the amygdala frequently comes out the winner, which can have psychological/neurological effects ranging from making us feel helpless or anxious, to a full on “fight or flight” panic. These habitual responses have roots in both our individual natures and environment in which we were nurtured, so they are understandable, yet they can also be very detrimental to our overall wellbeing. More often than not, the triggering situation really calls for emotional balance, not a “knee jerk” reaction.

To maintain our emotional balance, what we really need is an EXTRA BIG dose of frontal cortex pragmatism, which is critical for interrupting the habitual emotional responses that are triggered automatically by the amygdala. Because of the amygdala’s ability to hijack the pragmatic thought processes of the frontal cortex, having a coach can be like having a second frontal cortex as backup, to keep perspective when your primary one can’t!

Coaching can help you become aware of the ways in which you behave reactively,

and then help you create space between “you” and “the habit”. This newfound space gives you breathing room (both literal and metaphorical), and allows you to substitute new behaviors for old ones, bringing a sense of control over your destiny and an ability to deliberately shape your feelings and life!

Engaged people leading purposeful lives can have a big impact on their loved ones and the world at large. But sometimes long-standing habits can stand in our way. Habits aren’t so easy to change.

According to neuroscientists, through a lifetime of use our habits have carved a deeply ingrained “groove” in our synaptic pathways. As we age this groove becomes deeper and deeper. Unless we take deliberate action to fill and smooth this thought groove, through coaching or counseling, we will remain unable to experiment with new ways to think and live.

Having a coach on your side will help with structuring new ways to think, ways to be, ways to act, and ways to achieve goals that seemed out of reach previously.

Having a coach can help you to make educated decisions (from the frontal cortex) that serve your highest purpose, instead of involuntary responses (from the amygdala) that simply repeat past dysfunctional patterns. It can be very frustrating when we want different outcomes and experiences

but keep creating the same old things! Coaching can help!

How is life-coaching different than therapy and counseling?

Coaching does not focus on the “why” but on the “what now?”

The life coaching process shifts obstacles into plans and goals, looking forward instead of analyzing the past. Coaches work with highly-functioning people, meaning the client is healthy, willing, and fully capable of achieving their goals. Clients come to coaches not because they feel that they are ill or in need of therapy, but instead because they’ll be aided by someone who can provide guidance and motivation.

How can life coaching help individuals in their daily lives and overall life trajectory? There are many types of coaches and areas where a coach can help you thrive, including: wellness,

career, transitions, small business, relationships, financial health, image, transformation, yoga, and dreams/intuition.

In my practice, while a client may come in looking for help in one area, due to my holistic approach, the effects can often be global. I have one client who originally came in for yoga/wellness coaching. She built muscle tone, straightened her postural alignment and naturally alleviated chronic pain that was a result of how she held herself. By alleviating her pain, she was able to be more active, which meant she lost weight and looks and feels great. Due to her feeling so much better physically, she is no longer worn out and cranky at the end of the day, so she now has a better relationship with her kids than ever before!

A good coach believes in the enormous potential of his or her clients and, as a result, expects a lot from them. This combination of support and unwavering belief means that clients often end up surprising themselves, as they shine brighter than they ever thought possible!

“Change and growth take place when a person has risked himself and dares to become involved with experimenting with his own life.” Herbert Otto. Dare to experiment with your life and be amazed at the results you yield!

Tiffany Chion is a life coach, yoga teacher, avid gardener, and cat lover. If you would like to have a FREE phone consultation with Tiffany, to see if coaching is right for you, call 860-342-8783 or email truewellnesscoaching@gmail.com. See ad on page 10.

intuitive readings  angel therapy®  hypnosis  reiki

health coaching  development circles  workshops

Priscilla Bengtson Scan with your smart phone to learn more

99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury www.healinginharmonycenter.com860.632.8434

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33

Ending Your Relationship…Without All The Drama

I

don’t want to be married anymore. For those of you who have read “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert, you remember reading these words four pages into the novel. If you read the book and were startled by how closely your thought’s paralled the author’s, you’re not alone. What was fascinating to me was how many people happened to pick up this book during a time when they too were contemplating a separation or divorce, myself included. What many of us gleaned from this insightful, engaging and inspirational story is that divorce doesn’t have to be ugly. Sometimes, when approached with love, strength, and purpose, it can be a path to peace. The author’s quest to find balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence made me seriously wonder (as did she) if it was even possible to have both. At that point, I realized that my biggest challenge was going to be myself. Or more specifically, my thought processes. Because in the end, what you ultimately end up with is exactly what you believe or “think” you’ll end up with in the first place.

Fast forward a few years and after intense soul searching and personal development work which included silent retreats, taking spiritual courses and workshops, working with energy healers, and reading hundreds of books, we were able to have a completely amicable divorce. Some people still say we were just incredibly lucky. My ex and I mutually agreed that it was time to end the relationship, and not only have we been

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able to continue to run a business together, but we are friends as well. But was it luck or a result of two people who refused to allow drama to control the relationship? Even in situations where there is nothing to fight over, people find reasons to fight. There were so many situations where one of us could have allowed negative thinking and blame to shape the outcome. But we never went there. Instead we focused on the positive aspects of ending the relationship and what future opportunities we were allowing into our lives as a result of this ending. When one door closes…another opens.

Most people pass through stages of grief after losing a loved one or experiencing some other kind of traumatic loss such as divorce. In fact, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross created a model commonly known as The Five Stages of Grief, which is a process by which people cope and deal with tragedy.

The stages are: denial, anger, bargaining, sadness and acceptance. My question is – do we have to pass through or get stuck in any of these stages or can we go directly to acceptance and peace? I believe it is possible

to come to terms with a loss in a more peaceful, healthier way and the way to do that is to eliminate the drama that often occurs in these situations. How do you do that? Or better yet – how did I do that?

Even though my divorce was completely amicable, I still went through some of the stages of grief.

I believe that I was able to accelerate the process and refrain from getting stuck in any one of these stages because of the deep, spiritual and personal development work that I was doing at the time. Most of it centered on becoming more aware of what I was thinking and how those thoughts were controlling my actions. Any time I had a negative thought – something that would stir up a whole lot of drama, had I let myself dwell on it – I had to stop and ask myself the following questions.

1. Is this thought the truth? For example, if I had a thought like, “I can’t believe I failed in this marriage” – I would stop and say to myself, “ok, do you really believe that you failed…what did you accomplish by being with this person…would you have accomplished the same things if you weren’t with him?” Then I would realize that the negative thought wasn’t really what I truly believed.

2. Does this thought help me or hurt me?

3. Is there another thought that would make me feel better?

It wasn’t until years later that I read Byron Katie’s book, “Loving What Is”, and I

realized that I was essentially doing what she calls “The Work.” After going through this process, I would play a game in my mind called, “What’s the worst that can happen?”

In relation to a divorce, the question might be: What’s the worst that can happen if this person leaves me or I leave him? I would literally go through the entire scenario. Ok, first I would cry and be upset – but I know in time that would pass. Then, I might be scared of being alone – but I have a lot of friends that I can call to go out with and maybe I might even meet someone new.

Next, I would think about our business that we run together and what if it fails – if so, I would have to either get a job or start another business. Then I would worry about where I would live and how I would afford it – I haven’t even looked for a place so how do I know what it would cost. Soon, I realized that there was a positive answer or better scenario for every negative thought I had.

Another exercise that really helped me was to create a diversion every time I started spiraling into negative thinking. Anything I could do to change my surroundings and stop the thought process was what I would focus on. Some days it was going for a run, meditating, meeting a friend (but not talking about the situation), having a healing session or reading an uplifting book. Like an addiction, you have to break the habit.

And negative thinking is definitely a habit.

So if you find that whenever you are alone or in a particular place and the negative thoughts start coming – do whatever you can to change your surroundings. Get out of the house, call a friend, focus on your pet or

child if you have one.

But the most empowering thing I did that I believe really changed my thought patterns and helped me to understand why I was going through this traumatic event was working with my spiritual advisor. Learning about energy, spiritual guides and metaphysical practices completely changed my life and way of thinking. At about the same time we had filed for divorce, I was studying a few different metaphysical systems including astrology and destiny cards. Both of these actually indicated that it was possible that I would be going through a separation or divorce. Not only that, but there were explanations as to why this was happening and what other opportunities might arise if I did in fact get divorced. For me, this was a big confirmation. I was doing the right thing.

Our thoughts can be our greatest ally or our biggest enemy. They can keep us trapped in unhealthy situations or they can liberate us to find true love. You have this one life, this one opportunity to do and be and have whatever your heart desires. You came here with all the knowledge you need to create a magical life. You just need to remember and believe.

Submitted by Dr. Diane Hindman. Don’t miss her presentation on “Starting and Ending Relationships Without All The Drama” at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me… Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center.

Visit http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

NaturalNutmeg.com

35

Go Green on Your Wedding Day With Tips from the Green Bride Guide

by Kate Harrison

Y

ou might not have stopped to think about it, but every aspect of a wedding has environmental consequences. From the save-the-date cards before the wedding to the flowers at the farewell brunch, each choice a couple makes for their big day has an impact on the air, soil and water systems of our planet.

With almost 2.5 million weddings a year in the United States, each averaging more than 150 guests, the environmental impact of the wedding industry is enormous. Think of everything that goes into a typical wedding - a single-use bleached white dress, chemically treated, imported flowers, toxic makeup and skin care products, mined gem-based jewelry, and knick knack favors that typically get thrown in the trash, to name just a few - and then multiply by 2.5 million! That’s a lot of waste. If each of these 2.5 million couples made even one or two choices with the earth in mind, those earthfriendly choices would make a huge difference overall.

So how does the modern couple add eco-friendly touches to their celebration without sacrificing personal style and elegance? It’s easy.

Here are some of the simpler ways you can decrease your celebration’s impact and still have the wedding of your dreams.

Image: McKay’s Photography

Location, Location, Location Wedding-associated travel can result in serious carbon emissions. One of the easiest ways to cut down on your wedding’s travel footprint is to have your ceremony and reception in the same place.

Consider a wedding with about one hundred guests: if each car carries two people, that’s fifty vehicles driving from one location to the next. A single location eliminates those carbon emissions and saves your guests the hassle of going from one place to another.

If separate locations are necessary, you can mitigate the Image: Studio Mathewes emissions problem by arranging transportation for your guests, such as the rental of a bus, van or trolley. You can also encourage your guests to carpool by setting up a ride share board on your wedding website.

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Green Your Gold (and Your Silver and Diamonds, Too…) Your engagement ring and wedding bands are meant to symbolize your love and your enduring commitment to each other. Most couples carefully choose these jewelry items; they want them to be beautiful and long-lasting, like their marriage. Sadly, much of today’s jewelry, though it looks beautiful, has a violent and dirty past. As more couples learn about the environmental and human damage caused by destructive mining practices and the gem trade, they choose to begin their journey together with more sustainable jewelry choices.

Metal- and gem-mining is a filthy, dangerous business that produces tons of mining waste and releases toxic metals into the environments. Mines are notorious for environmental damage such as soil erosion, flooding, and water pollution. Dangerous, unjust labor practices employed by large-scale mining operations often go unregulated. This makes it hard, if not impossible, for smaller and less destructive mines to compete and stay in business. Mines historically have been breeding grounds for harsh conditions where workers are beaten and tortured, and child labor is common. According to Amnesty International, the sale of “blood diamonds” has contributed to 3.7 million deaths in Angola, Sierra Leone, and the Congo.

In the last decade, the world community, with the help of the UN, various non-governmental organizations and the diamond industry, decided to create a system to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate diamond supply chain. The agreement that was reached is referred to as the Kimberley Process, a system of mine-to-market documentation for each stone to ensure that from the point of extraction to the point of sale it follows legal, traceable channels.

Even with the Kimberley Process in effect, it is still extremely difficult to know the exact origins of a diamond. While the Kimberley Process has eliminated many of the human rights abuses associated with the diamond industry, some conflict diamonds still enter the market through a loophole that allows rough conflict stones to be certified by the conflict-free country that cuts and polishes them. In addition, the Kimberley Process does not take into consideration the environmental impact of mining, nor does Image: greenKarat it regulate any other gem or metal mining practices. Every newly mined diamond, gem, or piece of metal carries a cost. It seems incongruous to choose a ring with these origins to serve as the symbol for a lifetime of love.

You can find a list of retailers who have pledged to use sustainable and ethical sourcing practices at www.nodirtygold.org. Check out companies like Reflective Images or Ruff & Cut, who specialize in custom fair trade and ethically produced gold, silver, platinum, and diamond jewelry. GreenKarat offers gorgeous modern designs

in bridal jewelry made from truly recycled metals and eco-friendly created diamonds and gems.

The best option is to purchase an antique ring, which will help decrease the demand for newly mined materials. Diamonds that were mined before 1880 predate large-scale mining operations.

Purchasing an antique ring is a glamorous way to recycle, and it ensures your ring did not contribute to mining pollution. With vintage styles at the forefront of wedding trends, you’re sure to find something that fits your personal style.

A family heirloom is also a wonderful option because it is eco-friendly and carries a special meaning. If you have a piece of heirloom jewelry but don’t like the look, you can have the stones reset to match your style, or have the metal melted down and fashioned into your dream ring.

Image: Ellie Grover Photography

Go Local and Seasonal Choosing local, seasonal food and flowers supports local businesses and eliminates the impact of having to pack and ship items that were grown thousands of miles away. Investigate the options available during the season of your wedding, and talk to potential florists and caterers about their willingness to use only local and seasonal flowers and foods for your celebration.

Image: Vishal Grover Your guests will enjoy their fresh and flavorful meal, and your flowers will be vibrant and gorgeous.

Another bonus: you’ll probably save money with this eco-friendly approach.

Image: Rebecca Wilkowski

Earth-Friendly Paper Paper is used for save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, seating programs, menu cards, seating cards, thank you cards, and more. If you laid out all the paper used in wedding invitations alone in one year, it would cover the island of Manhattan! That’s a lot of trees.

As if the sheer amount of paper used weren’t enough, the processes used in making paper also can be problematic. To make paper pulp white, paper mills add bleach and chlorine to the mix, adding hazardous and carcinogenic compounds to the mill’s wastewater.

These toxins find their way into the streams and rivers nearby, where they go on to pollute the soil, water, fish and wildlife.

There are many wonderful eco-chic alternatives. If you and most of your guests are computer savvy, you can go entirely paperless.

Glö, a company founded on the belief that weddings can be modernized without sacrificing sophistication, offers online invitations in a variety of styles to suit any wedding. Create a wedding website to house all of the transportation and hotel information for guests, and to get RSVPs, and voila! Paperless wedding!

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If you and your guests aren’t quite ready for a paperless experience, you can easily find a solution that works for you.

Many eco-conscious couples find a middle ground: they choose a company that uses recycled paper and soy inks for printed invites that are just as lovely as their traditional counterparts. Companies like Spilled Ink Press offer gorgeous invitations made from earth-friendly papers and processes. Most invitation companies are now offering some eco-conscious alternatives; for example, Crane & Co. offers couture letterpress invitations on recycled cotton paper.

Another creative solution to the paper problem is to find ways to reduce the amount of paper in your invitation package.

Perhaps you choose online save-the-date cards, and then have your invitation company craft a gorgeous one-page wedding invitation. Eliminate the need for additional inserts by referring your guests to a wedding website to find reception information, directions to your venue, etc. With so many different options for limiting the amount of paper, you’re sure to find a solution that fits your style, budget and personality.

Giving Back Many wasteful elements of weddings can be reinvented as ways to give back. A couple who already owns home goods could consider a charity registry instead of a more traditional gift registry. You can also donate your leftover food and flowers and, if you grew out your hair for the wedding, consider donating those soon-to-be-shorn tresses, too.

Image: Brides Against Breast Cancer

While donating a wedding gown is a tough sell for many brides, there are wonderful charities that make it worth considering.

Brides Against Breast Cancer is one such charity of many. They collect donated gowns 38

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to resell, raising money to grant wishes to breast cancer patients. Just-married brides can donate their wedding gowns to help others, and brides-to-be can purchase couture once-worn gowns at discounted prices.

While it may be difficult to part with the dress of your Image: Glö dreams, you can really make a difference for someone by donating it instead of keeping it all wrapped up in plastic. Similar charities exist for bridesmaids’ gowns, which are notorious for being one-time wear pieces of attire. The Cinderella Project and Operation Fairy Dust are two charities that collect bridesmaids’ gowns to give to young girls who cannot afford formal dresses for their proms. All of these charities provide ways to give bridal party attire a meaningful second life instead of a place to collect dust in the attic.

What if you could give back something on behalf of your guests instead of sending them home with a trinket? Making donations in honor of your guests is a thoughtful alternative to a traditional wedding favor.

You can honor a charity you believe in, and share your personal values with your guests. Print out a card on recycled paper telling your guests about the donation you’ve made on their behalf, and perhaps even share some information with them about the organization and why it is important to you as a couple.

A Sustainable Start to a Sustainable Marriage

Image: Brunk Photography

Any of these simple choices will reduce the impact your wedding has on the earth, but none will reduce the style and elegance of your special day. Whether you make just one green choice, or many, every choice makes a difference, and making eco-friendly choices will likely make your big day even more special for both of you. Your eco-chic wedding will be a beautiful, sustainable start to your beautiful, sustainable marriage.

Submitted by Kate Harrison. For more information go to www.greenbrideguide.com.

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Are You “Alive”…or JustH

ang ing Around?

by Francis Tortora, DC

I

f we are flexible in our bodies and mind and we allow spiritual flow, then the answer is yes, because it is understood that the core of who we are is comprised of our spine, the central nervous system (CNS) and the innate sense of divinity and interdependency of all three. It is also recognized that all three reside within the center of the body. Let me give you a sampling.

Our spines are designed for movement; not only global movement but at every spinal segment in all three cardinal planes of motion (bending, side bending and twisting). Having and keeping a flexible spine becomes all-important as one ages.

When one loses flexibility in any part of the spine, this leads to breakdown or degeneration and more importantly, a loss of energy. You are less “alive” and maybe just hanging around, doing the best you can.

There are many functional tests and assessment screens for movement to determine the cause of spinal fixations which may limit proper respiration, create poor posture, and cause headaches and sciatica to make one feel less ‘alive’. These same tests are suggested to quantify the severity of loss of movement, such as being more acute or chronic as well as convey a level of CNS compromise, too much or too little nerve firing and actually how much there is of decreased function.

The innate sense of divinity is that all – important, life- giving force which is transmuted from the creative intelligence passing through our brains and spinal cords supplying us with vital force which we call life. But what about that all important life force?

Where does this fit into the scheme of function in our bodies?

This life force pervades every cell, tissue and organ. As long as nothing causes interference with it, our vitality, our “aliveness” is present within us. Getting stiff, feeling pain, losing patience, developing fears may all be the result of interference with this so-called vital force.

Can this spiritual force be decreased or compromised? The answer is that in and of itself no, but we can certainly block it, restrict its flow, or constrain it. In my opinion and experience, one of the major contributing factors which cause this vital force

to fail to sustain our “aliveness” is the emotion that we carry unconsciously. It is that “baggage” that we don’t know or have no awareness of that takes away our “aliveness” and harms us, and gives us pain or allows pain to continue. Yes, it is that which is unconscious. Since it is unconscious, only by being first aware of what is going on in your body, what your body is trying to tell you and your reflection on it, will you instantaneously bring it into conscious awareness and then be able to process it. Often times, this instantaneously frees the body of pain, other times it occurs gradually. There are a myriad of ways to release emotion, but awareness is the key that unlocks the unconscious mind.

Many of my patients present with physical symptoms, ranging from headaches and sinus and functional internal problems to acute and chronic low back pain and extremity pains, some of which are the result of injury or digestive dysfunction, but all of which involve some emotion. And all of my patients recognize the pain and loss of function, but few recognize or immediately accept the potent possibility of their own emotions (until they are shown), that they may actually have set themselves up for their current injury. An example, being caught up being too busy (frustrated), getting distracted and then slipping and falling, injuring themselves; having financial problems, feeling really ‘down’ and unhappy and then a couple of weeks later, doing something innocuous like picking up a toy and having an acute low back pain, or getting really upset with a spouse or friend and subsequently having a motor vehicle accident. As you can guess there are many possible emotional responses. Of course, injuries do occur without any undue stress relationship, but, nevertheless, emotional stress can become a ‘player’ after the fact. An example after an injury might be, being slowed down, or not being in control but wanting to, fear related to not knowing about the future or a need for survival, even a need to feel appreciated or forgiven or wanting approval or love, all because something was taken away.

The emotions that we feel and don’t let go of often go unconscious only to resurface in our bodies, particularly in the spinal musculature causing spasm and kinetic dysfunction, affecting normal spinal balance, the nervous system, even brain function.

Unless we become more aware and tuned into the relationship of body, mind and spirit and reflect on that relationship, we are at best robotic to persist in feeling pain and dependent on doctors to cure us. When we lose conscious awareness of our bodies, mind and spirit in every present moment, we become at risk, like smoldering wicks, literally dousing our life- force, afflicting both your body function and your psyche - your “aliveness”.

Doctors can always help or even cure our symptoms and allow for better function, but it is up to us to recognize and reflect on the cause and effect… the real cure, of body, mind and spirit.

Submitted by Dr. Frances Tortora, DC in Stamford. For more information, call 203-348-0678. See ad on page 29.

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Where is the Hair on My Head Going?

H

air loss can occur for a number of reasons including stress, nutrient deficiency, weight loss, toxic chemicals, and a variety of medical conditions. It is thought that the body pulls nutrients from the hair, skin and nails first to feed organs if they are not getting proper amounts in the diet or if the body is in a dis-eased or imbalanced state. That’s why one of the first indications of disease is a change in the healthy appearance of hair. The clinical diagnoses for hair loss is called alopecia, a medical condition in which hair is lost from some or all areas of the body, but typically from the scalp. Androgenetic Alopecia (hereditary hair loss) is the most commonly known cause that affects both men and women. For many, hair loss makes a huge dent on selfesteem. Several men and women now seek treatment for their receding hairlines. Men no longer think that just because they are men, it’s fine to be bald. The problem with losing hair is that sometimes, you are just predisposed to it. It’s a genetic thing. If your father’s hairline recedes early, chances are, so will yours.

Half of all men and women over 60 suffer from this. It ‘runs in the family’ and is genetically determined. When testosterone is naturally broken down in the body by Alpha reductase enzymes, it turns into DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) which is the leading cause of hair loss known as Androgenetic Alopecia. The androgen receptors that we all carry pick up the DHT in the hair follicle causing what is called miniaturization. The more DHT the follicle receives, the more the hair follicle shrinks eventually killing the hair. We all have androgen receptor genes, which hold the key to whether we are genetically predisposed to hair loss.

Our successful treatments limit and block the amount of DHT the androgen receptors deliver to the follicle.

Lifestyle also affects the condition of our hair. So if we cannot control our genes, a healthier lifestyle may help us retain our

crowning glory longer. The difference between 30 years ago and now is that people today are more stressed. Adding to the damage is the unhealthy environment, such as air pollution. Also, our typical diet consists of more processed food. What is bad for the body is bad for the hair.

Shampooing also plays a role in hair loss. We want to emphasize proper hair and scalp care because excessive hair loss can be exacerbated by unhygienic scalp conditions. There is always a need for greater awareness and education - many people still focus on the hair and neglect the scalp which has an important role in determining hair health.

Trichologist Donyelle McBride of McBride Hair has been using several types of natural treatments for hair loss for years with great success. Donyelle has successfully treated Androgenetic Alopecia, Traction Alopecia (hairline hair loss due to excessive tension), Diffused Alopecia (gradual hair loss over entire head), and Alopecia Areata including many clients with hormonal imbalance and chemotherapy.

“I started losing my hair in uncomfortable amounts. My doctor gave me a prescription to help stop the loss. Unfortunately I did not see any results. I contacted McBride Hair and began my customized treatment program with electrotherapy; after

90 days, I saw significant new hair growth.

My hair is now growing and slowly increasing in fullness,” says one of Donyelle’s clients.

Other medical reasons for hair loss include: chemotherapy, hormonal imbalance, birth control pills, medications for high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, and gastric bypass surgery. Treatment is most successful when hair loss is first detected.

So hoping your hair loss will correct itself is highly unlikely. Time and rate of hair loss can make a difference on how effective regrowth can be. It also depends on whether you have less than or greater than 50% scalp hair loss.

It is important to provide the proper environment for hair to grow. Proper scalp care, DHT Blockers, vitamin and herbal supplementation, follicle and scalp stimulation using electrotherapy (UV light that increases blood circulation and helps deliver nutrients to the follicle) help create that such environment. Other treatments include: all natural therapies like vitamin and mineral-enriched shampoos, Maximum Growth Therapy which is an organic alternative to Minoxidil. It contains eleven of the best topical DHT blockers and adds numerous natural hair enhancers.

Submitted by Dr. Diane Hindman and Donyelle McBride. For more information, visit www.mcbridehair.com or call 860-9852081. See ad on page 19.

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Community Calendar Listings in red are held in Fairfield County

Saturday, October 1st Reiki level I $150.00. Reiki level II, $200.00 Sunday October 2nd; Reiki Level III $250.00 Sunday October 30th; Reiki Master $750.00 Sunday November 13th. All classes run from 10a.m. to 6p.m. and are located at Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main St, Glastonbury, CT. Facilitated by Jill Cole RMT, KRM: 860836-2413 or cole.jill@sbcglobal.net for detailed description of each class and to register go to www.reikihealingnewengland.com.

Psychic Saturday. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. $20.00 for a 20-minute reading.

Stop by or pre-schedule a private reading with Intuitive and Angel Therapy Practitioner® Priscilla Bengtson. Receive guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, please call Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or email appointment@ healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, October 2nd Reiki I. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. $125.00.

Attune to the universal energy in this Level I Usui Reiki class. Participants will learn traditional hand positions,

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how to give a full body session and receive attunements to the universal Reiki energy for self-healing and healing others. Participants receive a manual, book and certificate. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or email registration@healinginharmonycenter.com.

Exploring Tantric Intimacy. 2–5pm. $68. With Pam Margaritis. Use the three keys of Tantra; breath, movement and sound to move energy and stimulate our pleasure. You will be introduced to exercises that will become the foundation of your deeper Tantric practice. Please pre-register. Visit www. sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury 860.657.9545.

Monday, October 3rd Common Ailments Treated with Safe, Traditional Chinese Herbs. 6:30- 8:30 PM. $32.00. Discussion on formulas to treat common disharmonies like abdominal distress, arthritis, back pain, trauma. You will learn where to purchase these formulas & herbals. Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies, 900 Wells Road (RT. 175), Wethersfield. 860-6665064. www.ctherbschool.com.

Tuesday, October 4th Business Skills for Holistic Practitioners. 6:30pm. – 8:30pm. $225.00 (Pay-

ment plan available). Class runs five consecutive Tuesdays. Whether you are just starting out in business or you’ve been practicing for awhile, this class will help you focus your business and develop a plan for success. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or email registration@ healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, October 5th Abundance/Manifestation. 5 session series, 6:30-8:30pm. Cost $97. Also Oct. 12, 19, 26. 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.

Discover the keys to open your gates to allow and accept that which is rightfully yours. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford.

Contact Gayle @203-265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or www.return2love.com.

Thursday, October 6th Safe Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation Center’s “Wild & Caring” Silent/Live Auction. 6pm -9pm. $30. Hosted by Scot Haney to celebrate Safe Haven’s 5th year anniversary! Admission includes hors d’oeuvres, chance to win door prizes, ability to bid on unique silent/ live auction items. Cash bar available.

Birch Meadow Banquet Facility, 76 East Dudley Town Rd., Bloomfield CT. For more information and tickets, visit www.safehavenrehab.org or www.safehavenwildandcaring.eventbrite.com.

The Truth About Cholesterol. 7pm.

Free. With Dr. Lilly-Marie Blecher, ND, Lac of Natural Health Associates.

Thyme and Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave. Hamden. 203-4078128. www.thymeandseasonnaturalmarket.com.

Friday, October 7th First Friday Crystal Bowls Sound Healing. 7 - 8:30 pm. $15. Edie Jemiola, RMT, facilitates this monthly offering.

Sound used with intention can shift the energy in and around the body to help reestablish physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Experience the purity and passion of Edie’s voice and quartz crystal bowls. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www. spiritmattersct.com. Register with Edie: 860-933-8145.

Reusi Dat Ton with David Wells. 9am5pm & Oct 8, 9am-4pm. $250. Reusi Dat Ton is the foundation of Traditional Thai Massage and consists of Breathing, Self Massage, Joint Mobilization, Yoga Postures, and Meditation/ Visualization Exercises. Visit www.sacredriversyoga. com for more information. Continuing Education Credits available for RYT and NCBTMB. Space is limited, preregister by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, 860.657.9545.

Essential Oils for Your Health. $25.

6-8pm. Come learn about the healing properties of essential oils and how

they can be integrated into your daily life. Oils can lift your mood, boost the immune system and relieve pain in addition to many other benefits. Create your own vegan lotion using a selection of therapeutic grade oils. Carleen Wells & Erin McGuire 46 Lebanon Rd, Bozrah, CT. Register at www.meiklemkilnworks.com or call 860.886.8562.

Creating the Healthy Self. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. $35.00. The truest sense of well-being comes from within and is created through a process of balancing all the elements of your life. Learn how to awaken your natural abilities and reconnect to an inner wisdom of healing.

Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please call PJ Harder at 860.729.1843 or email registration@ thehealthyself.net.

Saturday, October 8th Bishops Corner Celebrates National Costume Swap Day. 12:00pm-2:00pm.

Bring in your gently used Halloween costumes and swap it for something new to you! National Costume Swap day is part of a larger movement to create a greener Halloween. Swapping half of the Halloween costumes that kids wear reduces annual landfill waste by 6250 tons! Whole Foods Market, Bishops Corner, 340 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06117. Tel: (860) 523-7174.

Sunday, October 9th Women’s Yoga Retreat. 2:30-5:30 pm.

Pre-register prior to October 7, only $30. $35 after Oct 7. Join Dori Sargent and learn how to find and feel your power center; stand confident while balancing compassion and grace; heal and clear physical and emotional blocks with breath releases in poses.

Play, sweat, and empower yourself and others with strength and femininity. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Contact Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, 860.657.9545 Fuller Yoga Open House. 10-1pm. Our staff will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about yoga, pilates, massage thai massage cupping and Ayurveda Healing, health benefits and where to begin! Free Chair Massage, Tea and Healthy Snacks. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642, www. fulleryoga.com.

Tuesday, October 11th The Hero’s Journey - A Healing Path Begins. 7:00 – 9:00pm. $20. Join Jan Loomis for an introduction to what it takes to become a healer in your own life or in the lives of others. This experiential workshop is for people who are interested in exploring alternative therapies as a way to heal. Please preregister. Visit www.sacredriversyoga. com for more information. Contact Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, 860.657.9545.

Wednesday, October 12th

Mobile Medical, llc dr. HeatHer M. Veronesi naturopatHic pHysician 191 Albany Turnpike,Suite 301 PO Box 193,Canton, CT 06019 860-601-1318

Wholistic HCG Weight Loss Program Seminar. 6-7pm. $20. Also Oct. 26th.

The Weight Loss Program Nobody Believes! No Hunger, no needles or painful injections. Lose 10 -30 pounds in a month, help reset your metabolism.

Learn new, healthy eating habits for life. Learn how to maintain your desired weight. Weight loss results may vary. Call 860-657-4105 to register for the seminar. Glastonbury Naturopathic Center, 18 School Street, Glastonbury.

Healing in Harmony Night. 5pm. – 7pm. FREE. This is a drop-in healing service. Participants will receive an 8 – 10 minute healing from a healer. You will be served in the order in which you enter the center. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please contact 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Thursday, October 13th The Alexander Technique. Free Lecture: Michaela Hauser-Wagner. All are welcome, no reservations required. Free.

7:00pm at Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. www.thymeandseasonnaturalmarket.com.

Friday, October 14th Awakening the Healer Within. 6:30 pm.

– 8:pm. $35.00. Learn to activate your healer within and learn simple self-care practices such as Qigong, Meditation and Tai Chi Easy™. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please call PJ Harder at 860.729.1843 or email registration@thehealthyself.net.

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Calendar Saturday, October 15th Introduction to Medical Intuition.

10am–4pm. $90.00. Have you ever wondered how a medical intuitive works? In this program you will learn the basics of medical intuition, understand energy and how it impacts our physical health as well as how we function in the world. You will learn a simple tool to help you begin the process. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury.

To register, please call 860.301.1468 or email registration@healinginharmonycenter.com.

Your Integrative Health for Joy and Balance. 9:30am- 12:30pm. Also Oct. 22nd. A workshop designed to guide each participant toward creating a personalized health plan for a lifetime of joy and balance. We’ll explore a variety of approaches, including the Circle of Life exercise, understanding the food pyramid, Tai Chi and yoga basics, vision boards, diet and healthy food basics and metabolic types while considering each person’s unique health and nutritional needs. Manchester Community College, Maura O’Connor at moconnor@ mcc.commnet.edu or 860-512-2692.

Visit www.awakenedhealthnow.com.

Find Your Perfect Partner. 9am-noon.

Fee: $35.00 Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv, leads this popular class which will help men and women alike to identify the ways in which they may be unconsciously sabotaging themselves from attracting the love they so very much want. Come and learn the steps to truly becoming magnetic to love. Manchester Community College, Bldg. GPA GP142; to register call 860-512-3232 or online at http://mycommnet.edu.

Sunday, October 16th Lunar Flow Yoga. 5 – 7 pm. With Erika Halford. Pre-register/pre-pay for $20 or $25 at the door. Celebrate the full moon with a candle-lit, restorative practice that includes gentle backbends and hip-opening, forward bends and twists, inversions and special lunar meditation and ritual offering. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Space is limited so please pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, 860.657.9545.

Shamanic Journeying Beginners’ Intensive. 1 – 5 pm, $40. Dr. Marian Vitali, DC. An introduction to shamanic journeying, to help you connect to spiritual wisdom for your own transformational growth and health. Bring a drum or rattle, eye cover, notebook. Spirit Matters,

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19 Pinney St/Rt. 286, Ellington. Register with Dr. Marian Vitali, DC at 860-9188703 www.wholelifewellnessshaman. com.

Herbs For Healthy Living. 4:30PM $7.

Join Northern Connecticut Vegetarians’ Potluck with Nancy Correa, as the featured presenter. Nancy is a Nationally Certified Chinese Herbologist. She will speak on utilizing save herbs for the good of the body and to improve our wellbeing. Bring a healthy vegan dish to share along with your recipe and your name. Also, please bring your place setting. Children are free. Carniglia Senior Center, 41 Oak Street, Windsor Locks is the location. For more information, see www.northctveg.org or email Harry at veggyharry@aol.com.

Reiki I for Self Healing. $150. 10-4pm.

Gentle and non-invasive, Reiki is a simple, natural means to relieve stress, and promote balance and wellness. Level I training will include history, principles, benefits and uses, the chakra system, self-treatment and Level I attunement.

Give yourself the gift of self-healing!

Carleen Wells, RMT 46 Lebanon Rd, Bozrah, CT. Register at www.meiklemkilnworks.com or call 860.886.8562.

Pilates for Pink. 10:00am - 11:30am $10 Donation. Learn why correct breathing in Pilates will help you flatten your abs, how a strong core can add years to your life, and what muscles need to be stretched and strengthened in order to keep your posture strong and confident. Suggested donation $10. Proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga. com.

Monday, October 17th Meditation with Spirit World and Nature Allies Series. 7 - 9 pm, $15 ea class. Monthly Mondays: Oct 17, Self healing and Shamanism: emptying imprints of wounded stories. Nov 14, Invisibility and Shamanism: the hollow bone. Dec 12, Power of nature and Shamanism: connecting to the web of life. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney St/Rt. 286, Ellington. Register with Dr. Marian Vitali, DC at 860-918-8703 www. wholelifewellnessshaman.com.

Thursday, October 20th Menopause, Free Lecture: Dr. Amanda Levitt, ND of Whole Health. All are welcome, no reservations required. Free.

7:00pm at Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. www.thymeandseasonnaturalmarket.com.

Inner Source Meditation. 6:30pm8:30pm $20. Strengthen your connection to your inner source-your spark of all knowing Divine Light. Access on many levels of vibration that will help your intuitive “knowing” and light.

36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Contact Gayle @203-265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or www.return2love.com.

Friday, October 21st Gallery Night.

6:30pm. – 8:30pm. $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. Everyone in attendance will receive a message. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or email registration@ healinginharmonycenter.com.

Megalithomania USA 2011. $155.00 Full Weekend Ticket + Film, $425.00 Full Weekend Ticket + Workshop + Film + 3 Tours. Through Oct. 26th.

The Ultimate Annual Conference on the Megalithic Arts & Sciences. Three days of tours visiting Balanced Rock in North Salem NY, Megalithic Chambers in Patterson NY, America’s Stonehenge, Gungywamp Complex. www.megalithamerica.com.

Saturday, October 22nd Finding Calm. 10am–11:30am. $35.00.

Experience a natural way of dealing with fear, anxiety and worry. Release habitual patterns of negative, energy draining thoughts and balance your emotional state of being. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please call PJ Harder at 860.729.1843 or email registration@ thehealthyself.net.

Book Signing. 1pm. – 3pm. FREE. New Jersey author, Karen Noe, discusses her newest book Through the Eyes of Another. Karen draws on her experience as a medium and lets readers know that you don’t have to wait until you cross over to go through your life review. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For information, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.ThroughTheEyesofAnother.com.

Qi Gong for Practitioners. 9:30am – 3:30pm. Also Oct. 23rd. Learn Chinese Qi Gong fundamentals and exercises for immune system strengthening, marrow and organ cleansing, energy balancing and Qi cultivation. Class approved for CE Hours by The Nat’l Cert Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork and the CT Chiropractic As-

soc. CT Institute for Herbal Studies, 900 Wells Rd Wethersfield – Presented by George Hoffman, Silver Dragon Tai Chi & Qi Gong. Fee: $159. Call (860) 7425892 by Oct 19 to register.

Sunday, October 23rd Women’s Empowerment Meditation.

10am. – 12pm. $25.00. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck.

The energy of the group helps us to release those things that no longer serve our highest good and allow us to live an empowered life. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or email registration@ healinginharmonycenter.com.

Monday, October 24th Group Past Life Regression. 6:30pm8:30pm $20. Through exploration of your past lives, 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. No previous experience necessary. To register or for more information please contact Gayle Franceschetti @203-265-2927 203-265-2927 email sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love.net.

Thursday, October 27th 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, drumming included. Release what no longer serves you. Reiki offered as time allows and Spirit guides.

Bring a mat, pillow and blanket if you wish to lie down. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, www. spiritmattersct.com. Register with Lisa: 860-871-9295 x2.

Friend and Foe: Mold, Fungus, Yeast, and Mushrooms. Free Lecture: Dr. Anne Mitchell, ND of Advanced Allergy Research. All are welcome, no reservations required. Free. 7:00pm at Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128, www. thymeandseasonnaturalmarket.com.

Saturday, October 29th The Passion Test. 1-5pm. $45.00 for 1 or $40.00 each for 2 or more. Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv teaches a simple process for discovering the things that you are most passionate about and discovering the path to your purpose and destiny. Many people have used this method to rediscover old dreams or

create new ones, moving themselves into a life of greater passion, purpose and authenticity. Held at Heaven on Earth, Pembroke, MA. Click here to register.

Green Halloween. 12:00pm-2:00pm.

Join us for a scary sampling of delicious Halloween treats! Suzanne from the Little Green Tambourine will be here with her amazing vegan and gluten free pumpkin cupcakes!! Get in the spooky spirit with pumpkin painting and face painting! Whole Foods Market, Bishops Corner, 340 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06117. Tel: (860) 5237174

Saturday, November 5th Halloween Candy Swap.12:00pm-2:00.

Are your kids in a candy coma? Bring in your left over Halloween candy and swap it for healthy treats and fun stuff.

We will be sampling healthy and fun kid-friendly treats! Whole Foods Market, Bishops Corner, 340 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06117. Tel: (860) 523-7174

Monthly Ongoing Events SUNDAY Spiritual Cinema Circle. 7pm. Independent, spiritual filmmakers are creating inspirational movies with heart and soul. First Sunday of every month, movie followed by discussion of the film. Free. 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.

MONDAY

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.

Tong Ren Healing Class: 7-8pm. $10. each class. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine, 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 studied Tong Ren Healing with Master Tom Tam since 1994. Wu Healing Center , 45 South Main St., Suite 100, West Hartford, CT. 800-990-9332. www. wuhealing.com.Tel: 978-461-2168 (Office)978-790-8888 (Cell).

TUESDAY

Morning Yoga. Monday thru Friday @ 9:30am. Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. Class will begin with a warm up that utilizes variations of Sun Salutation. Then we will cultivate strength and awareness in the core, and later apply that awareness to standing postures and balancing. Cool down will consist of twists and forward folds. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com.

A Course in Miracles. 7-8:30pm. Love Offering. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation.

Release your mind and free yourself!

Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership).

Unitycenterps.org 203-855-7922.

Yoga Power. Mondays and Wednesdays 6:15-7:30pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply.

Find more Energy, Strength and Power in your life with the healing detoxifying benefits of Yoga Power. With focused breathing and intense holding of postures you will break through the resistance that keeps you from achieving success. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com.

Three Principles Therapy. 7:30-9:00pm.

A support group for people who are intrigued by the idea of learning how your thoughts can maintain or change the story of your life, forever. This is an ongoing group in which participants learn from each other’s insights, stories and experiences. Facilitated by Lori Carpenos, LMFT. $30 per session or $150 for 6 sessions. Call 860-561-1919.

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 heatbuilding 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.

Deep Restorative Yoga.7:30pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. The postures are specifically designed for when you are feeling fatigued, weak, stressed from daily life or when you just want to experience stillness. They are equally beneficial to alleviate depression, reduce chronic pain, migraines and the symptoms of insom-

nia, asthma and to help recover from childbirth. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT. 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com.

WEDNESDAY Yoga for Runners. 7 – 8pm. With Paula Scopino. $10 per person. Join the Glastonbury River Runners in a weekly yoga class designed specifically to stretch and strengthen the areas of the body that are affected by running. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033.

860.657.9545.

A Course in Miracles. 12:00-1:30pm.

Love Offering. The Course is a selfstudy curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation. Release your mind and free yourself! Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership).

Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922.

Dynamics for Living with Rev. Shawn. starting 9/14. Compilation of Charles Fillmore’s writing. Instruction on how to live by Unity principles. Dynamics for Living provides an easy reference to Charles Fillmore’s most influential teachings and combines three decades of writing in one book. It has been a reliable cornerstone for the spiritual growth of hundreds of thousands of people. These revelations he generously shared with all who studied in his classes or pondered over his writings. Prayer opened this man’s human consciousness to the dynamics of Spirit.

“What is “new” about this book is the arrangement in which this compilation is offered. Its purpose is to present the basic substance of Charles Fillmore’s writings in a manner that will invite an expanded study of what he taught.” This book explains Unity teachings in the easiest most practical way to think and live. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922

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Calendar THURSDAY The Bars Process. 7pm. Love Offering. The “Bars” is part of Access Consciousness, which is a set of tools and processes that are designed to facilitate more consciousness for everyone.

There are 32 bars of energy that run through and around your head. They store the electromagnetic component of all the thoughts, ideas, attitudes, decisions and beliefs that you have ever had about anything.There are Bars for healing, body, control, awareness, creativity, power, aging, sex and money, just to name a few. Each thought, idea, attitude, decision or belief that you have fixed in place solidifies the energy and limits your capacity to be generative in that area and to have something different show up in your life with ease.

Simply put, the “Bars” is like reflexology on your head. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org 203855-7922.

Qi Gong with Dr. Anne Mitchell.

QiGong is a healing practice similar to Tai Chi. The form you will be learning is simple and powerful. Qi Gong qualifies as weight bearing exercise and will help osteopenia and osteoporosis. It

will strengthen your core muscles and stabilize your spine. It will help you find peace and quiet within yourself. Common Benefits of Qi Gong are serenity, clarity of mind, focus, strength pain relief. Classes are Thursday at 5:30pm in our 2 Broadway, North Haven location Call to sign up and reserve a spot. 203239-3400. $10 cash per person, Bring a friend and you each get 1/2 your first visit.

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. 203-403-2522 or www. move2wellness.com.

FRIDAY Morning Yoga. 9:30am. Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. See full description under Wednesday class Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com.

Deep Restorative Yoga. 6:15pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com, The postures are specifically designed for when you are feeling fatigued, weak, stressed from daily life or when you just want to experience stillness. They are equally beneficial to alleviate depression, reduce chronic pain, migraines and the symptoms of insomnia, asthma and to help recover from childbirth.

SATURDAY 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.

Reiki. 7pm. Healing energy work with Hilda Swaby. 4th Thursday of every month Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922.

Tea Ceremony and Meditation.

8-9am with Dr. Ming wu. Free , 45 South Main St., Suite 100, West Hartford. 978-790-8888. wuhealing.com.

Tong Ren Healing Class: 11am - 12pm. $10. each class. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine, 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 studied Tong Ren Healing with Master Tom Tam since 1994. Wu Healing Center , 45 South Main St., Suite 100, West Hartford, CT. 800-9909332. www.wuhealing.com.Tel: 978461-2168 (Office)978-790-8888 (Cell).

Healing Prayers. 7pm. 3rd Thursday of every month. Love offering. Heal yourself through prayer with Karen Mitchell. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922.

Community Resources ACUPUNCTURE

ACUPUNCTURE

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

Sophia Natural Health Center

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 page 15.

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 21.

BEE VENOM THERAPY

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center

Bee Well Therapy, Inc.

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 39.

Bee venom therapy can offer significant relief from the symptoms of spinal, neural, or muscular-skeletal ailments. The anti-bacterial, 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.

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

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

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

ALLERGY TREATMENT CHIROPRACTIC 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 22.

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

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 39.

Dr. Charles B. Lerner, DC, LAc. 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 39.

CHIROPRACTIC

DENTISTRY

Westside Chiropractic

Dr. Kevin Norige, D.M.D.

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 34.

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 16.

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

Francis X. Tortora

Chiropractor, Board Certified Craniopath 22 Fifth, St., Ste. 208, Stamford, CT (203) 348-0678 See ad on page 29.

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

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 39.

112 Deming St., South Windsor, CT. (860) 644-0113

Foot Reflexology Ming Wu, Ph.D.,

Herbalist, Tui Na Therapy, Tai Chi Master 45 South Main St., Suite 100, West Hartford, CT 06107 Do you want more energy, eliminate pain, release stress? Experience this ancient healing art which uses hand and thumb pressure on areas of that foot that correspond to systems in the body. Tension in the feet sets tension levels in the rest of the body. Through reflexology, we can interrupt the stress signal and help bring your body into balance. The benefits of reflexology include relaxation, reduced pain, rejuvenation of tired feet, improved circulation; and amelioration of other health conditions.

Foot reflexology is a fast, inexpensive and relaxing way to help strengthen the systems in your body, improve chi, and stay in balance with nature. 1 hr. Foot Reflexology $50. To make an appointment, please call 800-990-9332.

FITNESS/NUTRITION 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 39.

Cassandra Forsythe, PhD, RD 860-933-8255 www.cassandraforsythe.com

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.

HEALTH FOOD STORES Parkade Health Shoppe

DENTISTRY 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 35.

Dr. Steven Hinchey

2249 New London Turnpike South Glastonbury, CT. (860) 633-6518 www.dentistryfordiabetics.com/drhinchey See ad on page 31.

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 instore 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 13.

MARTIAL ARTS

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir.

Copper Mountain Aikido

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 27.

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!

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. (203)595-0110 • mindbodytransformation.com

HYPNOTHERAPY/NLP

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

Bryce Rx Laboratories, Inc.

HYPNOSIS

Nishanto Kane...MindDesigning

21 Copper Hill Road, Granby, CT 06035 (860)986-3617, cpprmtnaikido@gmail.com

MASSAGE

Hypnosis, Master NLP Practitioner Aura,Chakra Analysis, Meditation Simsbury, CT. (860) 658-9678 www.minddesigning.net

Wholistic Spa

All that is, was first created in the mind.

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 39.

Nishanto Kane is a certified Eriksonian Hypnotist, Master NLP practitioner, Reconnection practitioner, Aura/Chakra Analyst.

She has over 25 years experience in assisting many to stop smoking, release self-sabotaging habits, develop beliefs to attract abundance and well being, eliminate per allergies, anxieties, phobias, weight gain, stress, alcohol abuse, insomnia, improve school grades and more. Offering Chakra analysis - this amazing scientific state of the art technology allows you and the practitioner to view your aura.

Through interpretation you can learn to bring yourself into physical, mental and emotional balance.

IN-HOME 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 17.

INSPIRATION

18 School Street, Glastonbury 06033.

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

Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, LAc, Med. Director

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE CT Natural Health Specialists

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 37.

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 27.

Robin Clare

Inner Wisdom Guide 10 Crossroads Plaza, West Hartford, CT. 860-232-3331 • info@clare-ity.com The Clare-ity Method will assist you in awakening your heart to the truth of who you are.

By discovering who you are, you can choose paths in your personal and professional life that bring you your greatest joys – abundant joys which enable you to be of great service to all beings. Together, we will open a channel to the spiritual realm through your own Akashic Records!

Please call Robin at 860-232-3331 or email her at Robin@epllc.org to find out more.

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 39.

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Resources NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE 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 provides comprehensive 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.

LIFE CENTER

2 Broadway, North Haven, CT 1007 Farmington Ave, Ste 7A, West Hartford, CT 203-239-3400 Dr. Henderson runs our weight loss program here at the Life Center and is internationally recognized for her work with diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease. Dr. Henderson’s writing has been published in several medical journals.

She has lectured extensively and is dedicated to helping each individual live a full healthy life on both a physical and emotional level. The first step toward health is improving our relationship with food and choosing to properly nourish ourselves. Dr. Henderson uses all the tools of naturopathic medicine to help us reach our health goals, including achieving a healthy weight. She also uses botanical medicine, flower remedies, homeopathy, acupuncture, exercise therapy and detoxification to guide individuals to attain their health goals, and to live their best lives. She is seeing patients in both our North Haven and West Hartford offices. See ads on pages 9, 41.

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 31.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine 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 30.

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 13.

Advance Biomedical Treatment Center, LLC

(formerly Avon Therapeutic Center) Eileen C. Comia, M.D. 701 Cottage Grove Road Ste., C-10 Bloomfield, CT 06002 • 860.242.2200 Fax 860.242.2212 • www.AdvBioMedTx.com Dr. Eileen Comia is a board certified Internal Medicine specialist with16 yrs of experience in private practice.

In 2002, she founded Avon Therapeutic Center (now Advance Biomedical Treatment Center) specializing in Integrative Medicine. She offers a unique practice using Functional Medicine in the treatment of chronic illnesses. She is a seasoned Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner of 10 years and a member of ACAM (American College for Advancement in Medicine). See ad on page 32.

Center for Integrative Healthcare & Healing 533 Cottage Grove Rd, Bloomfield, CT

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 8.

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 5.

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Natural Health & Healing, LLC

Soul Support Counseling

Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 60 East Main Street, Avon, CT. (860) 677-4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net

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

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.

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 43.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC

Inner Change Holistic Counseling

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 27.

Tamara Sachs, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care 15 Bennitt St., New Milford, CT (860) 354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.intranets.com See ad on page 43.

Deni Weber, MA, LPC, DCEP Weston, CT. • 203-544-6094 DeniWeber.com

With compassion, intuition and wisdom Deni guides individuals on their journey of regaining lost power leading to renewed purpose, well-being, and emotional balance. Specializing in mind-body therapies with clinical certifications in Body-Oriented Psychotherapy and Energy Psychology she works with adults, teens and children healing traumatic stress related to Abuse, AD/HD, Learning Disabilities, Chronic Illness, Lyme Disease, and Autistic Spectrum.

PHYSICIANS, M.D.

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

PHYSICIANS, M.D.

(860) 243-2224 • www.cmgmds.com/cihh.html

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 OsteopathicManipulation,inc luding 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 26.

RELATIONSHIP COACH Breakthrough to Love Coaching

Candace Brindley Candace@Rich-Relationships.com (203) 247-4613 • www.Rich-Relationships.com As a Professional Member of The Relationship Coaching Institute, Candace is an advocate for marriage that lasts.

She invites all dating Singles to seize the opportunity between relationships to learn about themselves and the winning combination of knowledge and skills for lasting love. Candace coaches groups and privately.

RETREAT CENTERS

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 33.

Still Waters Pond, LLC

280 Shetucket Turnpike Voluntown, CT 06384 860-543-3244 • stillwaterspond.com Group leaders interested in workshop/retreat space: Still Waters is nestled among 100 acres of pine forest and a private-10-acre pond. Comfortable, rustic lodging includes a two-bedroom, furnished cottage with full kitchen (sleeps four), Guest House (sleeps 11) and 1200-sq.ft. Art & Yoga Studio. Contact us to arrange a tour. See ad on page 32.

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 40.

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 16.

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 33.

SOCIAL WORK Michael Westfall, LCSW

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 15.

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 39.

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.

VIBRATIONAL/ ENERGY HEALING 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 39.

Pentalign

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 21.

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 29.

860-990-8395 • info@pentalign.com www.pentalign.com Pentalign is now offering the benefits of Reconnective Healing in the workplace and to clubs, organizations, families and individuals. This gives companies and organizations and invaluable offering for their employees that can have a dramatic effect on general wellbeing, stress related issues, and overall quality of life. This can directly lead to less sick days, higher job satisfaction and increased productivity resulting in a win-win situation for both the employee and the employer. We offer on-site or off-site introductory presentations as well as recurring weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly healing clinics that fit your company’s needs and schedule. Individuals are more than welcome as well. Contact Pentalign today to learn more about how we can be of value to you, your company or organization.

See ad on page 35.

The Healing in Harmony Center Priscilla Bengtson, ATP® 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033 (860)632-8434 www.healinginharmonycenter.com

The Healing in Harmony Center, a spiritual healing, counseling and education center, offers programs and services that help individuals acknowledge and develop their own gifts to the highest level. 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, trance channel and angel readings, medical intuitive readings, trance healing, hypnosis, reiki, mandala healing, and health coaching. A free healing service is offered once monthly.

See ad on page 33.

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 21.

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 page19.

Move 2 Wellness

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.

WEIGHT LOSS The Life Center

2 Broadway, North Haven CT 1007 Farmington Ave, Suite 7A, W. Hartford CT 203-710-6605 • alifecenter@yahoo.com Are you frustrated because you want to lose weight but cannot figure out how? Do you exercise but it doesn’t seem to help? Are you sabotaging yourself by overeating or emotional eating even though you have the best of intentions? Get off the dieting merry-go-round and FINALLY achieve your ideal weight? The Life Diet matches your nutrition to your metabolism.

Most Insurances accepted. We offer a medically supervised weight loss program with whole foods, individualized nutrition, meal planning, and weight loss coaching. See ad on page 9.

YOGA / PILATES CENTERS Fuller Yoga, Pilates & Massage 860-430-9642 • info@fulleryoga.com www.fulleryoga.com

Glastonbury’s newest 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 31.

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 8.

NaturalNutmeg.com

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Yoga Pose of the Month

“Vrksasana” Tree Pose

Benefits: . Strengthens thighs, calves, ankles, and spine . Strecthes the groins, inner thighs, chest and shoulders . Improves sense of balance . Relieves sciatica and reduces flat feet

Justine Fuller “Yoga Whiz” “Vrksasana” Tree Pose wearing Yoga Angel Camisole $24.99.

FullerYoga shorts $ 32.00 Fuller Mat $ 85.00. You can find Justine at: www.fulleryoga.com

Alignment; As you shift your weight to one foot keep your hips level. Place one foot at either the calf or inner thigh. Press your foot into your leg as you engage your leg to press back into your foot. Imagine your body in a straight line from your inner ankle to inner knee to belly button to your heart, nose and out through the top of your head. ,

Breathe wide into your sides and rib cage , this will prevent you from having to lifting and lowering the chest when breathing which could affect your balance.

Careful not to look down. Keep your chin up and parallel to the floor. Make sure you do not place the foot at the knee putting undue pressure at the knee joint. Gaze at a single spot ahead of you and breathe.

Photography By: Yves Mathurin

Balancing life is always tricky. There’s work, spouses, partners, children and even your pets can be challenging to keep in balanced with.

Tree pose teaches us that balance is ultimately an illusion. To balance in tree pose you need to manage the small wiggles and wobbles so they don’t become big and knock you off center. Balance consists of so many small adjustments you never see the big ones. Let Tree Pose teach you how to manage the little stuff and it will never turn into a mountain.

fuller yoga

Pilates & Massage

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Natural Nutmeg October 2011

2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642

Live Simply & Wisely

NaturalNutmeg.com

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A Guided ApproAch to optimAl heAlth

Natural

Health & Healing

llc

AreAs of focus

Anti-Aging (Optimal Aging) • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Detoxification Food Sensitivities • Heavy Metal Testing & Oral Chelation • Menopause & Andropause Mind Body Medicine • Weight Loss • Neurotransmitter Testing • Quantum Biofeedback Thyroid, Adrenal Testing & Treatment • Nutritional & Lifestyle Counseling

Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired?

Do you believe you should feel better than you do?

Many of my patients are simply looking for a doctor who will listen and explore the root cause of their symptoms which commonly include: Fatigue • Brain Fog • Sugar Cravings • Headaches • Depression Stress & Anxiety • Decreased Libido • Aches & Pains • Decreased Stamina Constipation • Allergies • Inability to Lose Weight • Insomnia

“I blend the best of traditional and alternative therapies to help your body function at its best.”

Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. (860) 677- 4600 60 East Main Street, Avon CT. 06001 www.naturalhealthandhealing.net 52

Natural Nutmeg October 2011