Solstice Spring 2016

Free

Spring 2016

Bringing People Together... to Make a Sustainable Difference!

Can Friends Keep Your Heart Healthy?...page 14 Less Meat in Dietary Guidlines?...page 30 Reuse, Recycle, Resale!...page 34

The Central Coast Guide to Green and Healthy Living!

Science has never drummed up quite as effective

a tranquilizing agent as a sunny spring day. ~ W. Earl Hall

the real secret about Stuff...

Here's an observation about stuff. We buy so much of it. Unless we understand why we do, it doesn't matter how we organize it, recycle it, or dispose of it when we're done. We don't buy things because we have money to burn. At least, 99% of us don't. We aren't doing it because we've got space to fill. Our houses are usually packed to overflowing. Researchers even have a phrase for this temporary fulfillment: retail therapy. Nearly every print media ad or television commercial portrays a consumer wearing a glowing smile. Now we have entire cultures that have bought into this belief system, that only results in happiness for the narrow fraction of society profiting from it. We're certainly not buying stuff because it makes us happy. Studies repeatedly conclude one simple truth: it’s the experiences, and the people in our lives that bring the most happiness. Not the stuff. Never the stuff. That’s the real secret.

Photo by Jenny Malott

Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

John Karp, Diane Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski, Monte Allen

Solstice Green Directory Mission: To provide information on environmental issues and ways to address concerns of residents on the Central Coast. To help educate consumers so that they can make better choices locally by providing visibility of green and healthy products and services. To develop and provide business networking opportunities to encourage relationships that will support a more sustainable community.

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing and Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Distribution

Monte Allen and Anthony Calandra

Graphic Designer John Karp

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski

Tech Support and Graphic Design

Jenny Malott and Chris Maloney

Bookkeeping Diane Parnell

Reuse and Recycle Special Contributor Monte Allen

Solstice Publishing, LLC

4251 South Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 473-5064 www.slosolstice.com info@slosolstice.com twitter.com/slosolstice facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

This publication is printed on recycled paper with soy ink.

Solstice Green Directory provides an advertising service. We cannot warrant or guarantee any of the products or services advertised. All feedback is most welcome and will help us provide a better service for you. Solstice Green Directory reserves the right to accept or reject advertisers.

Contents The Solstice Green Directory Spring 2016

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Can Friends Keep Your Heart Healthy?

14

Walnuts... So Many Reasons to Enjoy Them

16

Buy Local Blooms

18

Small Lifestyle Changes Make a Big Difference 20 Edible Landscapes

22

Time for Spring Greening

24

Choose Legumes

26

How to Shift a Bad Mood... Feel Better Fast

29

Less Meat in Dietary Guidelines?

30

Renewable Energy: Has the Revolution Arrived? 32 Reuse, Recycle... Resale

34

Pick Your Own Dandelion Greens

36

Gardening... The Best Therapy for Depression? 38 Toxin Alert... Keep Your Home Safe

40

Buying Stuff Won't Make You Happy

44

Planet Earth... Did You Know?

47

Amazing Cantaloupe

48

GLOSSARY 50

Directory ACCESSORIES & GIFTS Bambu Batu • (805) 788-0806

The House of Bamboo 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo 93401 www.bambubatu.com Organic natural products for your conscious lifestyle

ACUPUNCTURE SLO Community Acupuncture (805) 242-8339

Sliding Scale Acupuncture for Just $20 -$40!

977 Foothill Blvd. #110, San Luis Obispo slocommunityacu.com Please see display ad on page 37

ALTERATIONS Grateful Threads • (805) 709-6861 Fashion Exchange & Alterations 957 W. Grand Ave. Grover Beach Check us out on Facebook!

Please see display ad on page 35

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory 4

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Alison Watt Jackson, MS, PA-C (805) 268-0907 Bio-Identical Hormone Consultant Natural Hormone Therapy and more 181 Tank Farm Road, Suite 120 San Luis Obispo For scheduling and info call or go to www.ifeelwell.org

O & A Wellness Group (800) 679-8419

We put the WHOLE back in your natural health with comprehensive holistic functional medicine.

195 & 197 South 8th St., Grover Beach, CA Support@drabiola.com www.drabiola.com Please see display ad on page 25

Obispo Hyperbaric • (805) 440-9856 Recover faster from injuries/surgery, Get relief from chronic fatigue, brain trauma, ​ stress/anxiety​. Call Now for a FREE DEMONSTRATION! 3196 South Higuera Ste. C, SLO www.ObispoHyperbaric.com Please see display ad on page 21

No-kill adoption center and low-cost spay/ neuter clinic 1687 W. Stowell Rd., Santa Maria SMVHS.org

BOTANICALS Kandarian Organic Farms

The freshest Central Coast grown certified organic botanicals for the best value.

(805) 528 -4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com Please see display ad on page 27

Please see display ad on page 37

AROMATHERAPY Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 49

BUILDING MATERIALS & RESOURCES Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600

DIRECTORY

ANIMAL WELFARE Santa Maria Valley Humane Society (805) 349-3435

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 21

ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

Non-profit green bldg education & support www.slogreenbuild.org

Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com On-going classes at the Gala Center, Palm St., SLO

BUS SERVICE Regional Transit Authority (RTA) (805) 541-2228

Please see display ad on page 10

ATTRACTIONS Hearst Castle • (800) 444-4445

RTA buses get you around the county 7 days a week!

Talk Green. Live Green. Hop Aboard. www.SLORTA.org

Visitor Center Opens at 8 am Daily.

First Tour Begins at 9 am Advanced Reservations Strongly Recommended 750 Hearst Castle Road San Simeon, CA 93452 www.hearstcastle.org

Please see display ad on page 46

CAFÉ SunShine Health Foods/Shine Café

Please see display ad on inside front cover

BABY BOOMER HEALTH SLO Hep C Project • (805) 781-3660

GET TESTED. GET TREATED. GET CURED. Quick, easy and FREE, Hep C testing is now available throughout SLO County www.asn.org www.slohepc.org Please see display ad on page 13

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064

Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873 Please see display ad on page 43

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS Hearst Castle • (800) 444-4445 Visitor Center Opens at 8 am Daily.

First Tour Begins at 9 am Advanced Reservations Strongly Recommended 750 Hearst Castle Road San Simeon, CA 93452 www.hearstcastle.org Please see display ad on inside front cover

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

5

DIRECTORY

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT R. Barkley & Associates (800) 211-5677

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICE Go! Computer Services www.go-cc.com

Please see display ad on page 43

Please see display ad on page 8

Professional Business Services Taxes, Bookkeeping, Home Loans, Investment Planning www.rbarkley.com

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

Commercial • Residential • Rental Properties • RCFE’s Always Eco-friendly coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo www.coastlinecleaningslo.com Please see display ad on page 28

CLOTHING & BAMBOO Bambu Batu • (805) 788-0806

The House of Bamboo 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo 93401 www.bambubatu.com Organic natural products for your conscious lifestyle

COMMUNITY HEALTH SLO Hep C Project • (805) 781-3660

GET TESTED. GET TREATED. GET CURED. Quick, easy and FREE, Hep C testing is now available throughout SLO County www.asn.org www.slohepc.org Please see display ad on page 13

COMPUTER CONSULTING/TRAINING KCBX.net • (805) 781-2580 Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Quickbooks and more.

4100 Vachell Lane San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 www.kcbx.net

Follow Us On Twitter!

http://twitter.com/slosolstice 6

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

More Than a Tech. More Than a Tutor.

On-Site Help for Your Computer!

(805) 704-0833 Repair, Refurbish, Recycle, and More!

CREDIT UNIONS SESLOC Federal Credit Union (805) 543-1816

A not-for-profit, depositor owned, financial institution serving all who live, work, worship or attend school on the Central Coast.

3807 Broad St., SLO; 1399 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande; 8380 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 705 Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles; 2506 South Broadway, Santa Maria www.sesloc.org Please see display ad on back cover

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 19

DENTAL Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 39

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com Please see display ad on page 28

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com Please see display ad on page 28

The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223 Shaman, Holistic Nutritionist, Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org

FUNDRAISERS Santa Maria Valley Humane Society Casino Night Saturday, April 9 – 4:30p.m.

Santa Maria Elks Lodge Fundraiser to support programs and services Call 805-349-3435 for reservations SMVHS.org

DIRECTORY

ENERGY WORK / ENERGY MEDICINE Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586

Please see display ad on page 45

GRAINS Kandarian Organic Farms

The freshest Central Coast grown certified organic Ancient, Heirloom & Specialty grains.

(805) 528-4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com

Please see display ad on page 15

ENERGY - SOLAR Ben Harbour - SolarCity (805) 245-7994

Please see display ad on page 27

Clean Energy for Less Than You Pay Now! Contact me for a free consultation today. bharbour@solarcity.com Please see display ad on page 43

EVENTS Santa Maria Valley Humane Society Casino Night Saturday, April 9 – 4:30p.m.

Santa Maria Elks Lodge Fundraiser to support programs and services Call 805-349-3435 for reservations SMVHS.org

GREEN FLOORING Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 21

ProSource Flooring • (805) 781-2657 The Largest Wholesale Flooring Source in North America www.prosourcefloors.com Please see display ad on page 19

GREEN GARDENING Elationscapes • (805) 400-4999

Please see display ad on page 45

FLOORING MATERIALS & INSTALLATION ProSource Flooring • (805) 781-2657 The Largest Wholesale Flooring Source in North America www.prosourcefloors.com Please see display ad on page 19

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064

Ecological landscaping and permaculture design elationscapes.com

Los Osos Green Gardeners

Sustainable gardening and landscaping grass roots group; a community forum where neighbors share knowledge and resources.

Contact: David Hunter • (805) 400-9937 1539 10th St., Los Osos, CA greengardeners@greenerlivinghomes.com www.facebook.com/greengardeners

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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DIRECTORY

GREEN-REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co.

171 N. 13th St. Suite A Grover Beach 93433 O: 481-7700 F: 481-9338 P: 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com Please see display ad on page 15

David Hunter, Realtor-Associate (805) 400-9937

Keller Williams Realty Central Coast 815 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, CA 93442 david@greenerlivinghomes.com www.greenerlivinghomes.com Please see display ad on page 37

HEALTH / FITNESS Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600

Tropical paradise, tennis, ozone pools, classes incl. yoga, cafe & catering, conf. rooms, special events avilabayclub.com Please see display ad on page 37

SLO Community Acupuncture (805) 242-8339

Sliding Scale Acupuncture for Just $20 -$40!

977 Foothill Blvd. #110, San Luis Obispo slocommunityacu.com Please see display ad on page 37

HEALTH / DETOX Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814

HEALTH FOOD STORES Sunshine Health Foods/Shine CafĂŠ

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com

Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873

Please see display ad on page 39

Please see display ad on page 43

HERBS & SPICES Kandarian Organic Farms

The freshest most unique Central Coast grown certified organic gourmet herbs & spices.

(805) 528-4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com Please see display ad on page 27

HORMONES Alison Watt Jackson, MS, PA-C (805) 268-0907

Bio-Identical Hormone Consultant Natural Hormone Therapy and more 181 Tank Farm Road, Suite 120 San Luis Obispo For scheduling and info call or go to www.ifeelwell.org

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064 8

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

1020 Pine Street, Paso Robles CA 93446 Darya R. Boland, ND W. Jamey Kirkpatrick, ND Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine www.salusintegrativemedicine.com Please see display ad on page 31

INVESTMENT SERVICES Virginia Perry Souza (805) 347-4544

LOANS SESLOC Federal Credit Union (805) 543-1816

A not-for-profit, depositor owned, financial institution serving all who live, work, worship or attend school on the Central Coast.

3807 Broad St., SLO; 1399 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande; 8380 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 705 Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles; 2506 South Broadway, Santa Maria www.sesloc.org

DIRECTORY

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine (805) 226-5190

Please see display ad on back cover

Wealth Advisor • Senior Vice-President Morgan Stanley 800-659-4311 virginia.souza@ morganstanley.com www.morganstanley.com/fa/virginia.souza Please see display ad on page 45

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

MASSAGE Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo www.caroldawnsreflexology.com Please see display ad on page 49

Commercial • Residential • Rental Properties • RCFE’s Always Eco-friendly coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo www.coastlinecleaningslo.com

MUSEUMS The Natural History Museum (805) 614-0806

412 S. McClelland St. Santa Maria Where natural history comes to life. www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com

Please see display ad on page 28

JUICE BAR Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873 Please see display ad on page 43

LANDSCAPING Carmichael Environmental (805) 544-3214

Landscape Design & Build Sustainable Outdoor Living Solutions www.carmichaelenvironmental.com Please see display ad on page 23

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine (805) 226-5190

1020 Pine Street, Paso Robles CA 93446 Darya R. Boland, ND W. Jamey Kirkpatrick, ND Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine www.salusintegrativemedicine.com Please see display ad on page 31

Follow Us On Twitter!

http://twitter.com/slosolstice

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

9

DIRECTORY

NON-PROFIT Santa Maria Valley Humane Society (805) 349-3435

No-kill adoption center and low-cost spay/ neuter clinic 1687 W. Stowell Rd., Santa Maria SMVHS.org Please see display ad on page 37

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter

547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo (805) 543-8717 • santalucia.sierraclub.org Please see display ad on page 52

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

Non-profit green bldg education & support www.slogreenbuild.org

NUTRITION The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223 Holistic Nutritionist, Shaman, Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org Please see display ad on page 15

OFFICE SPACE San Luis Business Center (805) 540-5100

ORGANIC CAFE SunShine Health Foods/Shine Café Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873 Please see display ad on page 43

OXYGEN THERAPY Obispo Hyperbaric • (805) 440-9856 Recover faster from injuries/surgery, Get relief from chronic fatigue, brain trauma, stress/anxiety. Call Now for a FREE DEMONSTRATION! 3196 South Higuera Ste. C, SLO www.ObispoHyperbaric.com Please see display ad on page 21

OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490 777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 19

PAIN RELIEF/LASER THERAPY O & A Wellness Group (800) 679-8419

Shared resources - sustainable options/ office space 4251 South Higuera San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Neuromuscular. Neuroskeletal.

Degeneration. Acute and Chronic Injuries.

195 & 197 South 8th St., Grover Beach, CA PainReliefNow@drabiola.com www.drabiola.com

Please see display ad on page 42

Please see display ad on page 25

Learn Astrology...

Meeting Every 1st Wednesday of the Month 6:00-7:30pm GALA Center, located at 1060 Palm St., San Luis Obispo

Newcomers Welcomed!

sloastrologers@aol.com • sloastrologers.blogspot.com 10

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

PERMACULTURE Elationscapes • (805) 400-4999

Keller Williams Realty Central Coast 815 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, CA 93442 david@greenerlivinghomes.com www.greenerlivinghomes.com Please see display ad on page 37

PHYSICIAN Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490

RECYCLING Eco Club Five Cities (805) 489-9696

777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

DIRECTORY

Ecological landscaping and permaculture design elationscapes.com

David Hunter, Realtor-Associate (805) 400-9937

Find out how to “zero waste” your event!

Items recycled • Food stuff composted anita@missetiquette.com

Please see display ad on page 19

Please see display ad on page 45

POLLENS Kandarian Organic Farms

The only Central Coast grown certified organic gourmet edible pollens in the world.

(805) 528-4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com Please see display ad on page 27

REFLEXOLOGY Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo www.caroldawnsreflexology.com Please see display ad on page 49

RADIO BROADCASTING AGM California, Inc • (805) 781-2750 The Central Coast’s leading radio group: 98.1 KJUG, 93.3 KZOZ, Q104.5, The KRUSH 92.5 Locally owned and operated for over 30 years serving this community with pride.

RESALE Curio • (805) 544-1204

Women’s Resale Clothing & Accessories Quality • Gently Used • Unique • Vintage In The Creamery – 570 Higuera St. Ste. 180 CurioSLO.com Please see display ad on page 35

Please see display ad on inside back cover

California Cool Thrift Store (805) 773-4100

KCBX FM Public Radio (805) 549-8855

Used • Vintage • Collectibles 737 West Grand Ave. Grover Beach

Symphonies, jazz, daily news & transforming stories Streaming live on the Internet at www.KCBX.org

Please see display ad on page 35

Grateful Threads • (805) 709-6861

Please see display ad on page 13

REALTOR-GREEN C. Green Real Estate Co.

Fashion Exchange & Alterations 957 W. Grand Ave. Grover Beach Check us out on Facebook!

Please see display ad on page 35

171 N. 13th St. Suite A Grover Beach 93433 O: 481-7700 F: 481-9338 P: 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com Please see display ad on page 15

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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DIRECTORY

RESALE (CONT.) Shamrock Thrift Store (805) 481-0612

All proceeds benefit St. Patrick Catholic School 924 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, CA Please see display ad on page 35

SHAMANISM The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223 Shaman, Holistic Nutritionist, Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org Please see display ad on page 15

SOLAR ENERGY Ben Harbour - SolarCity (805) 245-7994

Clean Energy for Less Than You Pay Now! Contact me for a free consultation today. bharbour@solarcity.com Please see display ad on page 43

SPA SERVICES Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600 ex.0

Use of club included on day of service!

Full service spa including massage, mani & pedi, organic facials, and more!

6699 Bay Laurel Plc, Avila Beach avilabayclub.com Please see display ad on page 37

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 19

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064 12

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

THRIFT STORES California Cool Thrift Store (805) 773-4100

Used • Vintage • Collectibles 737 West Grand Ave. Grover Beach Please see display ad on page 35

Curio • (805) 544-1204

Women’s Resale Clothing & Accessories Quality • Gently Used • Unique • Vintage In The Creamery – 570 Higuera St. Ste. 180 CurioSLO.com Please see display ad on page 35

Shamrock Thrift Store (805) 481-0612

All proceeds benefit St. Patrick Catholic School 924 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, CA Please see display ad on page 35

TILE Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 21

TOURS Hearst Castle • (800) 444-4445 Visitor Center Opens at 8 am Daily.

First Tour Begins at 9 am Advanced Reservations Strongly Recommended 750 Hearst Castle Road San Simeon, CA 93452 www.hearstcastle.org Please see display ad on inside front cover

TRANSPORTATION Regional Transit Authority (RTA) (805) 541-2228 RTA buses get you around the county 7 days a week!

Talk Green. Live Green. Hop Aboard. www.SLORTA.org Please see display ad on page 46

WATER CONSERVATION Carmichael Environmental (805) 544-3214

Landscape Design & Build Sustainable Outdoor Living Solutions www.carmichaelenvironmental.com Please see display ad on page 23

ZERO WASTE Eco Club Five Cities (805) 489-9696

Find out how to “zero waste” your event!

Items recycled • Food stuff composted anita@missetiquette.com Please see display ad on page 45

“It's a matter of discipline. When you've finished washing and dressing each morning, you must tend to your planet.” ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery in "The Little Prince"

 This American  Bioneers  Morning Cup

Life

 TED Radio Hour  Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me!  Fresh Air

90.1 SLO, Santa Maria  89.5 Santa Barbara  91.7 Paso Robles to Salinas 95.1 Lompoc  91.1 Cayucos  90.9 Santa Ynez, Avila Beach, Cambria KCBX Public Radio  4100 Vachell Lane, SLO 93401  (805) 549-8855  kcbx.org

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

13

can

Friends keep your Heart healthy?

Friends can help you live longer. In a study of nearly 7,000 adults in Alameda County, California, researchers found that people with more social contacts, whether from marriage, close friends, relatives, or church, were two to five times more likely to outlive people with fewer contacts. Further research at the University of Alabama, suggested that people in less developed societies who had close relationships with neighbors had lower blood pressure, fewer symptoms of heart problems and were

less depressed than people in advanced societies with fewer neighborly ties. One theory suggests that friends tend to give each other emotional comfort, which may have an effect on a cellular level. At Duke University School of Medicine, a study found that people in tense situations have lower levels of “free fatty acids,” which is a risk factor for heart disease, when a friend is present. It may be that friends act as buffers against stress, and modify the impact of stressful events on the body.

With all the mounting evidence that friends can help keep you healthy, the new prescription might be, “Make two friends and call us in the morning!”

can't sleep? try a sleep slim

Smoothie...

Doze off and keep your metabolism burning through the night with this delicious smoothie.

Cherries are one of the richest known sources of melatonin, the sleep hormone that recent studies have shown can also help reverse the effects of aging, while bananas contain loads of magnesium, a calming mineral. Almonds contain both tryptophan, an amino acid that acts as a sedative and magnesium, which acts as a muscle relaxant.

Sleep Slim Smoothie Recipe: 1 cup organic tart cherry juice / ½ banana / ½ cup almond milk / 5 ice cubes / ¼ tsp. pure vanilla extract. Combine the cherry juice, banana, almond milk, ice and vanilla in a blender and blend until smooth. Nitey night!

Gift Cert. Avail.

Shamanism • Holistic Nutritionist Energy Medicine • Medical Intuitive

Carmen Green Broker

171 N. 13th St. Suite A, Grover Beach, CA 93433

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.481.7700

tel: (805) 478-1223 www.thehealingworks.org

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

15

Walnuts...

Like most nuts, walnuts are a great source of monounsaturated fat and fiber, but they also contain a special, unique type of vitamin E called gamma-tocopherol.

Studies done on gamma-tocopherol in particular have found that this different form of vitamin E provides significant protection from heart problems. This special vitamin, in addition to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, is also the reason why walnuts decrease cholesterol and are recommended by the American Heart Association. In fact, a serving of walnuts contains 113 percent of your daily value of omega-3 fatty acids, the essential fatty acids our body needs to fight inflammation and that contribute to lowering the risk 16

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Walnuts are one of the most antioxidant rich foods and are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties and are known to help prevent strokes, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and colon, prostate, and breast cancers.

Walnuts are also high in B-complex vitamins and minerals such as copper, iron, manganese, zinc, calcium, and selenium.

Walnuts are particularly beneficial for cognitive health and are generally regarded as an excellent “brain food.� Walnuts may also calm the nervous system and increase your sense of well being and peace. They are known to satiate the appetite as well as aid in long term weight loss. Walnuts are high in vitamin E which helps to keep cells

so many reasons to enjoy them! protected from free radical damage. Walnut oil is a wonderful moisturizer for the skin and is regularly used in skin care products for its healing and protective benefits. Try mashing a few ripe bananas and sprinkling chopped walnuts on top for an energy and brain boosting breakfast. Only a handful of walnuts a day are needed to receive their powerful health benefits.

Cool, and coarsely chop. Mix together broccoli, oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and pepper in large bowl. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, and reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water. Add drained pasta to cheese mixture, and toss to combine, adding some pasta water if mixture seems too thick. Stir in parsley and walnuts. Parmesan cheese optional.

Pasta with Lemon and Toasted Walnut Recipe: 1 cup steamed broccoli / 1 cup walnut halves / ¼ cup olive oil / ¼ cup lemon juice / 2 tsp. grated organic lemon zest / 1 clove garlic, minced / ¾ tsp. freshly ground black pepper / 1 lb. your choice pasta / 1 cup Italian parsley, coarsely chopped. Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast walnuts on baking sheet for 10 minutes.

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

17

buy local

Blooms

by Katy Budge

When it comes to buying locally grown, don’t stop at produce and proteins. Let that philosophy color your attitude towards cut flowers as well.

Some 80 percent of the cut flowers sold in the United States are imported, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Most come from huge commercial operations in South America that typically use a lot of pesticides, and the imported flowers are fumigated before they cross the border. In addition, just consider the environmental impact of transporting all those blooms abroad – not only in fuel costs, but also the energy involved in refrigerating and storing such a fragile crop during the week or so it takes to get from harvest to vase.

Contrast that scenario with domestically grown flowers, especially from California.

Though most are also grown on large commercial farms, this state has the 18

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

strictest growing standards in the world, and the level of transportation infrastructure means that flowers are cut and brought to market within just a couple of days.

Because California supplies 75 percent of the nation’s cut flowers, it’s a good bet that if the flowers don’t carry a “CA Grown” label, they’re imported. (The label is easy to spot; it resembles the state’s automobile licenses that were blue with gold lettering, issued from 1969–1986.)

The best option – especially given the plethora of farmers’ markets in San Luis Obispo County – is to buy your flowers from local growers. Many farms that primarily grow produce also offer flowers, sometimes as a crop to promote beneficial insects and bring overall balance to the farming operations. Their flowers will also be seasonal, and probably cut that morning.

Besides, if you’re already trusting those farmers to grow your food, you can certainly trust them with your bouquets!

does this

Credit Card make me

look

Fat?

Paying with cash can keep you from impulsively tossing high-cost, high calorie snacks into your cart, according to a study from the Journal of Consumer Research.

That's because you have more awareness of the money you're spending when you pull bills out of your wallet, compared with when you just swipe a credit card. Try breaking the credit card habit and you could shrink your waistline and grow your wallet!

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19

Small Lifestyle Changes...

Doing your part doesn't have to be hard. Small steps add up to a big difference, you just have to know which ones to take.

Use Less Water. Saving water is all about small steps, here are a few that will help save big. Shut off the water while you brush your teeth. Take showers that are a minute or two shorter. Only flush the toilet when you need to. Only run full loads of laundry and dishes. Buy from sustainable producers. These are farmers, ranchers, and other producers that use techniques that pollute less and use less water. You can do some research online or ask at your local organic market to find these products.

Reduce Your Energy Consumption. If you don't have the money to buy a hybrid car or convert your house to solar power,

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

you can make a big difference with small changes. Buy energy efficient appliances.

They may be more expensive, but make up for the increased cost in lower energy bills.

Unplug chargers when you’re not using them. Cell phone and other chargers use up power even if there’s nothing attached to them. Put devices with remotes, like TV’s, VCRs, and stereos, on a power strip and turn it off when you're not using them.

These devices use a lot of power to run the remote receiver even when the device is off. Walk or ride your bike for short trips.

Buy local products. It takes energy to transport food and other products across the country. Buying local not only supports your local economy, it helps them use less energy. When it comes to saving energy and water, it’s a great idea to get the kids involved. Challenge them and make a game

Make a Big Difference! of it. Have them track how much water and electricity everyone is using. You can compete to see who uses the least water.

You can often count on your kids to help keep you on track when given the task.

Reuse as Many Things as You Can. Most of us know the three R’s: reducereuse-recycle, but when we work on conserving, we often leave reuse out of the picture. While you can often find tips on how to reuse common products from other people, what you need most is creativity.

With a little thought there are many items around your home that can be reused. Toilet paper holders can be used to sow seeds for the vegetable patch. Old yogurt containers can be cut into strips to make plant labels.

If you can't find a use for something, list it on freecycle and maybe others can.

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Use Environmentally Friendly Products.

Just about every time you go to the grocery store you see more and more “natural” or “eco-friendly” products. There are generally two big problems with these products. First, just because they say they're more natural than regular products, doesn't mean they are. Secondly they're often overpriced. If you want inexpensive, natural and safe products, why not just make them yourself?

Vinegar is a great way to clean and disinfect glass and other surfaces. Need to remove stubborn stains? Just add some baking soda to your vinegar cleaner. A quick search online will find hundreds of other naturally safe home-made cleaning products.

We all know that going green means better for the environment, but it’s also better for you. Conserving resources also helps save you money, which is something most of us are happy to live with.

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Edible

landscapes

by Josh Carmichael

It is best to approach edible garden designs the same way as any ornamental plan, by creating an entire landscape full of different heights, colors and textures. The key is to not segregate the edible plants into neat little rows or separate growing spaces. Use fruits, herbs, and vegetables not only for their taste, but also for their beautiful flowers and foliage. Let the edibles bolt to collect seed, attract pollinators and add beauty and unique flavor to any recipe, such as cilantro, arugula, or nasturtium flowers. Overall, this planting style equals higher yields with less costs in valuable water, time, and money resources. Using cues from Mother Nature we can all create highly abundant and beautiful food producing gardens that you will not only want to share with your friends and family, but all of the passing birds and butterflies as well. Happy Gardening!

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Lavender... can it help you Sleep?

Lavender has a history of use in folk medicine. Used by traditional healers as a cure for sleeplessness, lavender has been the subject of clinical research. According to the Associated Sleep Society, lavender oil may be effective in relieving mild insomnia, especially in women and young people. Results published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, indicate that lavender oil might treat insomnia when used as an aromatherapy treatment. It's worth a try!

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23

time for

Spring Greening!

Here are some ways to create a greener spring: De-clutter: You don't have to get rid of everything, but think how often you use it. If it has been more than a year you may want to fix it up, donate or recycle it.

Clean naturally: 2 cups of water, ¼ cup of white vinegar, ¼ tsp. of tea tree oil and ¼ teaspoon of lavender oil makes a great natural disinfectant. A lemon cut in half and baking soda poured on the fruit makes a great natural scrubber for dishes and stains.

Use commercial car washes: This is actually a more efficient way to preserve our water. Hand washing at home uses

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

80–140 gallons of water yet, at your local car wash only an average of 45 gallons are used. Shade your windows: Simple and much more effective and cost effective than blasting your heater or air-conditioner.

Compost: Not only will your garden appreciate it but you will be contributing less to landfills. Grass clippings, fruit and veggie scraps, even cardboard and newspaper can all be thrown into your compost. Grow your own: Not only will you save money on fresh veggies and fruit but you will also know exactly what went into the soil and on your plants since you grew them yourself. If you don't have a garden look into a community plot.

buy less

Bottled Water Between 26 and 41 percent of all discarded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic comes from water bottles according to the Clean Air Council. Not only is that a huge amount of waste, but the plastic won't decompose for thousands of years since it is shielded from sunlight in landfills.

According to the EPA, over 25% of bottled water comes from the same place as tap water (a municipal water supply). In addition, drinking 8 glasses of water per day will cost you about 50 cents per year from the tap, but up to $1,400 from a bottle. The solution is simple: buy a reusable hard bottle and drink from the tap. If you live in an area where you don't want to drink the water from the faucet, invest in a filter. A BPA-free plastic bottle, or a stainless steel type are affordable options that will last for years.

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25

choose

Legumes Beans are a high fiber, low fat, vitamin packed source of protein.

Besides being delicious, here are more reasons to include them into your diet: Antioxidants: Black beans offer the most benefit, followed by lentils,black soybeans and red kidney beans. According to a study by North Dakota State University, the high levels of phytochemicals may prevent hardening of the arteries by reducing plaque buildup and keeping blood vessels healthy. Lower Cholesterol: According to an Arizona State University study, people at risk of developing diabetes, lowered total and LDL (bad) cholesterol by more than 8 percent when they ate a half cup of pinto beans a day for eight weeks. Eating a half cup of oatmeal in comparison lowers it by 2 percent. Prevent Disease: Studies show that nutrients in legumes may also protect against Alzheimer's as well as breast and colon cancer. Because beans can add up to a lot of calories if you eat more than a serving or two, you might want to combine them with vegetables and whole grains for a more complex meal that will keep you feeling full longer. And best of all, beans and legumes are inexpensive.

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fennel pollen

Shortbread Cookies

Recipe Submitted by Kandarian Organic Farms (adapted from Ina Garten)

Recipe: ¾ pound butter softened / 1 cup sugar / 3½ cups flour / 1¼ teaspoon kosher salt / ½ tsp. crushed fennel pollen, plus more for rolling. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cream butter and 1 cup of sugar until they are just combined. Add the fennel pollen. In a medium bowl, sift together, with a whisk, flour and salt; then add them to the butter-and-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Roll into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Sprinkle a generous amount of fennel pollen to cover the log. Cover in wax paper or parchment. Chill until firm.

Carefully slice the log into ¼" cookies.

Place the cookies on an sheet pan covered with parchment. Bake for 11–13 minutes, until the edges begin to brown.

Allow to cool to room temperature.

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27

healthy treat...

Caramelized Honey Banana Are you craving a sweet snack? Well this one is perfect because it’s filled with potassium and has metabolism boosting cinnamon. Recipe: 1 slightly under-ripened banana, sliced / 1 tablespoon honey / Cinnamon / Olive oil. Lightly drizzle olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Arrange banana slices in pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. Meanwhile, whisk together honey and 1 tablespoon of water. Remove pan from heat and pour honey mixture over banana. Allow to cool and sprinkle with cinnamon.

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Solstice Green Directory -Spring 2016

how to shift a bad mood...

Feel Better Fast!

In a way, we create our world through our thoughts; our external reality becomes a reflection of our internal landscape. These thoughts draw to the surface of our minds more and more memories that have the same "feel" to them, and they prime us to pay more attention to the events happening around us that also match. When we start finding ourselves feeling down or pessimistic about things, or when something we've come across in the media upsets us, it's really important to head the snowball off and look for ways to shift our focus.

Fortunately, there are ways of making just that kind of shift, and they don't have to be difficult or time-consuming.

Here are a few: 1) Focus on the present moment. When we feel bad, it's usually because our attention is focused in the past or on the future. Grounding yourself in the present moment allows you to experience your life in the only moment over which you have any control: right now. 2) Have fun doing something you enjoy. Tell your inner critic to take a hike, and let yourself have a moment of pure playfulness and joy. 3) Take a walk. Getting outside and enjoying the sunshine and some exercise helps to settle things down and can turn your mood around. 4) Lend a hand. Not only does it feel good when something we can do helps others, it actually has an impact on both our mental and physical health, too. Studies have shown that older adults who regularly volunteer, for instance, enjoy higher levels of well-being.

5) Laugh more. Even when situations are particularly bleak, if we can still find a way to laugh, things never seem quite as bad.

Less Meat in dietary guidelines?

A new analysis released an unprecedented 29,000 public comments on the 2015 Scientific Report's recommendations on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans reveals overwhelming support for including sustainability considerations and clear guidance for diets that include less meat and more plants in national dietary policy.

A companion analysis outlined the legal basis and argument for including sustainability in the Guidelines. The sheer number of comments, fourteen times the number submitted in 2010, shows overwhelming public support for the science-based recommendations linking nutrition and environmental concerns, including less meat and more plant-based foods in our diets. Since the release of the Scientific Report in February 2015, there has been an outpouring of public support for its sustainability recommendations including: 1) A petition from 12 organizations with more than 150,000 signatures.

2) An open letter from 49 major health, public interest, and environmental organizations to Secretaries Vilsack and Burwell 3) A joint statement signed by more than 100 environmental and health organizations and experts in support of sustainability, less meat, and more plant-based foods in the DGA that was featured in full-page advertisements in the New York Times, Washington Post and Politico.

4) A letter of support from more than 700 health professionals, including several from Yale and Harvard Universities. 5) A resolution adopted by the US Conference of Mayors.

Baking Soda... for a non-toxic,

Fresher Home!

Baking soda works as a great, non-toxic air freshener. This household staple helps soak up odors without leaving a scent of its own. It's perfect if you're sensitive to perfumes. Keep open boxes in the refrigerator, in cabinets, and in closets and drawers to clear away odors.

Sprinkle baking soda in trash cans, and put it in your vacuum bag for a fresh scent while cleaning.

Don't forget to add it your list to freshen up your home this Spring!

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31

Renewable Energy Over the past decade, world wind power capacity grew more than 20 percent a year. The global transition to clean, renewable energy and away from nuclear and fossil fuels is well under way with remarkable developments happening every day.

Here are six that may surprise you: 1) Solar is now affordable. The price of solar photovoltaic panels has declined 99 percent over the last four decades, from $74 a watt in 1972 to less than 70 cents a watt in 2014.

Between 2009 and 2014, solar panel prices dropped by three fourths, helping global PV installations grow 50 percent per year. 2) Wind power adoption is rapidly

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

altering energy portfolios. Over the past decade, world wind power capacity grew more than 20 percent a year, its increase driven by its many attractive features, public policies supporting its expansion and falling costs. By the end of 2014, global wind generating capacity totaled 369,000 megawatts, enough to power more than 90 million U.S. homes. Wind currently has a big lead on solar PV, which has enough worldwide capacity to power roughly 30 million U.S. homes. 3) National energy policies are promoting renewables.

Unfortunately, governments worldwide still subsidize the fossil fuel industry with over $600 billion, giving this aging industry five times the subsidy that went to renewables. But by the start of 2014, some 70 countries, including many in Europe, were using feed-in tariffs to encourage investment in renewables.

has the

Revolution

arrived?

4) The financial sector is embracing renewables. The financial services firm Barclays downgraded the entire U.S. electricity sector in 2014, in part because in its view U.S. utilities are generally unprepared for the challenges posed by distributed solar power and battery storage.

In January 2013, Warren Buffett gave solar energy a huge financial boost when his MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company announced an investment of up to $2.5 billion in California in what is now known as the Solar Star project. At 580 megawatts, it has become the world’s largest PV project.

MidAmerican had earlier bought the Topaz solar farm in California, now tied with Desert Sunlight, another California project, as the world’s largest at 550 megawatts.

Topaz can generate enough electricity to power 180,000 California homes.

5. Coal use is in decline in the United States. U.S. coal use is dropping and fell 21 percent between 2007 and 2014. More than one-third of the nation’s coal plants have already closed or announced plans for future closure in the last five years.

Major U.S. coal producers, such as Peabody Energy and Arch Coal, have seen their market values drop by 61 and 94 percent, respectively, as of September 2014.

6. Nuclear is on the decline thanks to rising costs and widespread safety concerns. For the world as a whole, nuclear power generation peaked in 2006 and dropped by nearly 14 percent by 2014. In the U.S., the country with the most reactors, nuclear generation peaked in 2010 and is now also on the decline.

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

33

reuse, recycle...

Resale!

Resale clothing is a great option. That sharp vintage jacket and perfectly distressed jeans already had their impact on the environment the first time around, so by reviving them in your collection, you're essentially getting a sustainability freebie, or at least, diluting their impact by extending their useful lives. In many cases, people’s enthusiasm for their old threads wears out a lot faster than the clothes themselves do, so used clothing stores can be a veritable gold mine of good stuff. When you decide it’s time for a new garment or two, here are a few ways to shop thoughtfully: 1) Look for the best combination of local, organic, Fair Trade, and/or recycled clothing you can find. You won't be able to check off all these choices in one article of clothing, but it’s worth shopping around to see how many you can get. 2) Think classic over trendy: Several stylish basics that can be mixed and matched, will serve you well through years of fashion crazes. Nobody regrets holding on to a well-tailored jacket or crisp button-down shirt. 3) Invest in quality attire. It'll be more expensive short term, but last years longer than throwaway cheapies. 4) For every new item you buy, considering donating at least one older item. It will clear space in your closet, help control the desire to stockpile clothes, and keep your local resale store vibrant.

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Th

t rif

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Shrewd shoppers take advantage of the opportunity resale offers to save money on apparel, furniture and other consumer goods. According to America’s Research Group, a consumer research firm, about 16–18% of Americans will shop at a thrift or consignment store during a given year.

No one is immune to the excitement of finding a treasure and saving money.

Resale – a win for the consumer and a win for the environment.

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35

pick your own

Dandelion Greens!

While most people scoff at these pervasive weeds, in many cultures they are revered for their nutrition and taste. They are excellent liver and kidney tonics that help reduce the body’s toxic burden. Their innate bitterness stimulates digestive juices, helping to improve digestion, particularly of fats. They also encourage bowel regularity.

Avoid picking dandelion greens near road sides or in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides. The milk contained within the stem is very bitter, so be sure when picking the flowers to snip them above the

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

stem. Rinse the flowers thoroughly before using in any recipe. Mid to late afternoon is best, as is collecting on sunny days when possible, which produces a drier, fluffier flower. Pick only blooms in their golden yellow prime. Small buds will make the end result more bitter. Pan-fry them in a little water, olive oil, and garlic. Cover until cooked (usually just a few minutes) and remove from the heat. Squeeze lemon juice and sprinkle a little sea salt over them for a delicious side-dish.

the

Carb advantage...

Move over fiber! We can celebrate whole grains for their cancer-fighting antioxidant levels, too, according to research from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania.

Pastas made with whole wheat have the most antioxidants in the grain group, and popcorn tops the snack list.

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37

Gardening...

the best therapy for

Depression?

There is a small bacteria called mycobacterium that people who are suffering from depression, anxiety, or other similar issues, should know all about.

Scientists claim that this – and maybe other microorganisms – has a comparable positive effect on humans as pharmaceuticals have. Start getting your hands dirty in the compost or topsoil while gardening.

The only thing you need is to get into direct contact with the soil or even just breathe the air around it. The microbes found in the soil have similar effects on the brain as antidepressant medicines have, but without creating a potential chemical dependence. Mice experiments indicate that the natural effects of the soil bacteria can be noticed for up to 3 weeks. People have been using natural remedies for 38

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

centuries as cures for physical pain and even mental and emotional afflictions.

Even if historically people couldn't explain why a natural remedy worked, they still observed the changes it brought and used it as often as necessary. There is a proven link between soil microbes and an improvement in human health. The substance’s name is mycobacterium vaccae and it generates serotonin production, which influences you to be relaxed and happier. All research was conducted on people who suffered from cancer and they reported that they were less stressed and generally had a better quality of life. Serotonin is important because the lack of it can trigger anxiety, depression, obsessivecompulsive behavior and bipolar problems. People interested in gardening will often tell you that they find happiness while doing that, but now there is also scientific evidence behind their claims.

freshen your

Breath

Naturally Bad breath is a universal problem and usually avoidable. Instead of store-bought rinses and gargles, simply brush your tongue when you brush your teeth, and drink lots of water to keep your mouth hydrated. Here's an interesting tip. Chew on a few sprigs of parsley or mint. Studies have shown that these freshen breath instantly.

You may want to keep a small, plastic bag filled with the sprigs in your purse at all times. It's an easy and natural solution to this problem!

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39

Toxin Alert...

There are more than 80,000 chemicals used in consumer products and manufacturing in the United States.

In addition, more than 2,000 new chemicals are introduced every year. Only about 200 of these have been tested for safety.

The government does not require testing or health studies for chemicals found in household cleaners, pesticides, paints and stains, skin and hair care products and hormones used in the meat and dairy industry. Here are 3 steps to reduce dangerous toxins in your home: 1) Get rid of conventional cleaners. Most contain ingredients including volatile organic compounds (VOCs)such as formaldehyde, harsh acids and hormone disruptors linked to cancer reproductive toxicity.

They also contain chemicals that can cause eye and respiratory irritation.

What can you do? Use nontoxic biodegradable cleaners that are free of synthetic fragrances. Most cleaning can be done with baking soda and vinegar.

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Keep Your Home Safe!

2) Filter your water. The public water supply in 19 of America's largest cities delivered drinking water that contained contaminant levels exceeding EPA limits, including rocket fuel, arsenic, lead, fecal waste, and chemical by-products created during water treatment.

The solution? Get a water filter and ask your water utility for its "Consumer Confidence Report." Avoid bottled water since most brands are not much better than tap water. Plastic bottles also contribute to the mountains of waste. Carry and refill your own reusable water bottle instead.

3) Use care when buying paints and stains for your home. Conventional paints contain three dangerous chemicals. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fungicides and biocides. The answer? Use super low or even zero VOC paints and stains. Look for "biocide-free" paints and those that use natural pigments. If your home was built before 1970, consider having both your home and your children's blood lead level tested. Paint over lead based paint to minimize both dust and chipping to be safe.

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

41

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

cut down on

Water

Waste Americans are some of the biggest consumers of water worldwide, according to the EPA. We use 100 gallons on average per day, while Europeans of equal lifestyle use only about 50.

Since we are living at a time when half the world's population will face water scarcity issues within two decades, reducing your water use makes sense. Here are a few water-saving tips: 1) Try not to take baths, and cut down your shower time. A bath requires about 70 gallons of water, while a 5 minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons. 2) Flushing a toilet is the biggest water waste in your home. Don't flush tissues and q-tips down the toilet just because the trash can is slightly less convenient. 3) Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. The average faucet flow is 2 gallons per minute, meaning you can save literally gallons of water by just turning off the tap when you aren't using it.

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43

Buying Stuff won't make you happy, and here's why...

They all begin to fade. All possessions are temporary. As soon as the package is opened, they begin to perish, spoil, or fade. There is always something new right around the corner. New models, new styles, new improvements, and new features. From clothes and cars to kitchen gadgets and technology, our world moves forward. And planned obsolescence makes sure our most recent purchase will be out of use sooner rather than later. Each purchase adds extra worry to our lives. Every physical item we bring into our lives represents one more thing that can be broken, scratched, or stolen. Possessions require maintenance. The things we own require time, energy, and focus. They need to be cleaned, organized, managed, and maintained, and often distract us from the things that truly do bring us lasting happiness. Our purchases cost us more than we realize. In stores, products are measured in dollars and cents. We don't buy things with money, we buy them with hours from our lives. We discover other people aren't all that impressed. Subconsciously (and sometimes even consciously), we expect our newest purchases will impress other people. They will notice our new car, computer, jacket, or shoes. But most of the time, they are less impressed than we think. Someone else always has more. The search for happiness in possessions is always short-lived because it is based on faulty reasoning that buckles under its own weight. If happiness is found in buying stuff, those with more will always be happier. The game can never be won. Shopping does not quench our desire for contentment.

Our overflowing closets and drawers stand as proof.

Experiences make us happier than possessions.

All research points to the fact that there are far more effective ways to find happiness: enjoying life-changing experiences.

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Dessert ...sugar-free, healthy and raw!

Raw desserts are primarily made from fruits, nuts and seeds which are chilled and/or dehydrated instead of subjected to any form of cooking. This retains a lot of heat sensitive nutrients as well as enzymes.

A small portion of a festive fruit salad or skewer is a great example of a raw and healthier dessert.

Virginia Perry Souza

Senior Vice President, CIMA®; CWS®; CPM®

The Souza-Cook Group

Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

2005 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454 direct 805 347 4544 toll free 800 659 4311 fax 805 925 1315 CA Insurance Lic. #0683508 virginia.souza @morganstanley.com www.MorganStanleyFA.com/virginia.souza

Eco Club Five Cities will “Zero Waste” your event!

Appropriate items recycled.

Food stuff collected and taken to compost facility.

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Planet Earth

...did you know?

1) The Nile River is the longest river on Earth. It measures 4,160 miles in length.

2) Mt. Everest is the highest mountain. Its peak measures 29,029 feet above sea level.

3) The lowest point on the planet is the Dead Sea, measuring 1,302 feet below sea level.

4) The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest. 5) The Sahara Desert is the largest desert, covering approximately ⅓ of Africa. 6) The Atlantic Ocean is the saltiest of the major oceans. 7) The planet Earth is approximately 70% water. Of that, 97% is salt water and the remaining is fresh water. 8) Is the Earth round? Almost! It’s slightly flattened at the North and South poles.

9) Earth is the third planet from the sun. 10) It is 93 million miles away from the sun. 11) It takes 8 minutes for the energy from the sun to reach Earth. 12) Planet Earth rotates around the sun at about 1,000 miles per hour.

13) It is the fifth largest planet in diameter. 14) It is referred to as the blue planet, because from outer space the oceans and atmosphere combine to make it look that way. 15) Earth’s circumference measures almost 25,000 miles.

16) Its diameter is 8,000 miles. 17) 80% of all life on this planet lives under the surface of the ocean.

18) Most volcanoes take place under the water.

19) Magma is the hot liquid rock under the surface of the Earth.

When it comes out of a volcano it is known as lava. 20) If an earthquake occurs under the sea it can cause a tsunami. What an amazing planet!

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amazing

Cantaloupe Cantaloupe is an amazing fruit that has over 19 vitamins and minerals that help to boost the immune system, detoxify the organs, and deeply hydrate and alkalinize the body. Since cantaloupe is a predigested food, it is best eaten on an empty stomach alone for breakfast. The high vitamin C content in cantaloupes is critical for immune system support and to fight bacterial and viral infections. Cantaloupe is also excellent for helping to relieve nerves

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and calm anxieties. The rich vitamin A and beta carotene content in cantaloupe helps to lower the risk of cataracts and aids in maintaining healthy eyesight. Cantaloupe also aids the body in excreting excess sodium which helps to reduce water tension and bloating. After purchasing a cantaloupe, let it sit on your counter until it emits a light floral scent and yields to gentle pressure.

Try some in your next fruit salad!

roasted

Eco Tip:

Garlic Recipe: Heat oven to 400° and position a rack in the center. Peel off most of the paper from the garlic, leaving the head intact with the cloves attached. Trim the top off the head of garlic by ¼ inch. Drizzle 2 tsp. of olive oil over the exposed surface, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Wrap in foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Garlic is done when the center clove is completely soft when pierced with a paring knife. Continue roasting for an additional 5–10 minutes to help deepen the golden color and caramelize further. Exact roasting time may vary due to size. Garlic can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks and frozen for up to 3 months.

Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.

Carol Dawn RN, CMT.

Nat Cert. Reflexologist 26 yrs in business locally specializing in aromatherapy

(805) 546-8660 Enlivening & rebalancing our community, one foot at a time! www.caroldawnsreflexology.com

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Glossary

descriptions of integrative health/wellness and green/healthy living practices...

Acupuncture is a form of health maintenance, which stimulates the body’s ability to correct and balance itself. Based on the ancient Chinese practice of using "punctures" to cure the body of disease and relieve pain. This process is used to channel the chi life force throughout the body by a network of meridians in a continuous flow.

Disease is considered to be an imbalanced meridian system, and "needles" are inserted at various points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the life-force flow to correct the imbalance.

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses liquid plant materials, known as essential oils (EOs), and other aromatic compounds from plants for the purpose of affecting a person’s mood or health. Essential oils differ in chemical composition from other herbal products because the distillation process only recovers the lighter phytomolecules. Aromatherapy is a generic term that refers to any of the various traditions that make use of essential oils sometimes in combination with other alternative medical practices and beliefs.

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic science from India. Said to be more than 5,000 years old, "Ayur" means life and "Ved" means knowledge. Ayurveda is the study of longevity that offers healing, rejuvenation, and selfactualizing therapies utilizing diet, exercise, yoga, herbs, massage, aromas, meditation, 50

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

mantras and tantras. Ayurveda tradition teaches that health is the balance of elements fire, air, water and earth – and illness is an excess of an element.

Biofeedback involves noninvasive, simple electronic monitoring to observe the body’s functions and provide information useful to the healing processes, especially with stress. Using biofeedback information, guided relaxation techniques allow awareness and methods to control particular body reactions.

Treatments may address anxiety, pain, migraines, insomnia, muscle spasms, asthma and other stress-related disorders.

Chiropractic Care consists of Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) who are spinal specialists and have completed a four-year course of graduate-level study; a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom and laboratory, and clinical training at an accredited chiropractic college, and passed national and state exams.

Chiropractic care specializes in chiropractic adjusting and manipulation, diagnosis, radiology, physical medicine, nutrition and natural therapies with an emphasis on prevention, and drug-free care.

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a system of evaluation and treatment which views the client as an integrated totality and uses gentle, noninvasive techniques to the craniosacral system surrounding the brain and the spinal cord.

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) consists of fingertip tapping on meridian points. EFT alleviates negative emotions and experiences. Clinical psychologists David Feinstein and Dawson Church, award winning author, The Genie in Your Genes, confirmed through their landmark study tapping on specific meridian points has a positive effect on cortisol levels, the “stress hormone.” Research suggests EFT is effective because it helps to balance the activity of the parasympathetic and sympathetic regions of the brain, making it a powerful healing tool.

Herbalists practice ancient healing procedures by using plants, and their derivatives, as preventative and curative medicine. Whole herbs retain their subtle ingredients needed to balance the body to catalyst the healing process, without harmful side effects of synthetic drugs. Herbs are used for internal and external treatments using teas, ointments, oils, compresses, tinctures, and extracts.

Homeopathy is a holistic therapy developed in Germany over 200 years ago by physician, Samuel Hahnemann. Homeopathy is based upon the belief that “like cures like,” and uses small doses of natural remedies created from herbal, mineral and animal substances.

Meditation is the deep relaxation of the body to heal the body, quiet the mind, and provide the client with a sense of inner balance.

Meditation can be a state of focused or mindful attention, which can include the use of sitting posture, imagery, mantras, control of breath, and observation – all to allow thoughts to emerge and pass without becoming engaged with them.

Organically Grown food is processed and grown without using pesticides, such as herbicides and insecticides, preservatives,

colorings or radiation. Certified Organic Food is grown on land where no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides have been used for three years; where there has been an inspection by an independent third party; and the producer has provided documentation such as soil tests, a statement of intent, and an affidavit.

Osteopathy is a form of drug-free noninvasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework, which includes the joints, muscles and spine. Its aim is to positively affect the body's nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems.

Permaculture is a system of environmental land-use and sustainable living techniques, utilizing principles from ecology, technology, and the wisdom of indigenous peoples.

Developed in Austria in the 1970’s, permaculture emphasizes ethics: caring for people and the earth, and giving away surplus.

Reiki means universal life-force energy, and is a scientific way to activate and balance the life-force energy (chi, prana, qi) present in all living things. One method used is light handplacement therapy that is used to channel energy to organs and glands.

Reflexology or zone therapy, is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.

Sound Vibration Therapy is based on the fact that the universe is in a constant state of vibration; therefore, the body’s cells are constantly vibrating. Sound vibration therapy employs the direct application of the voice, music, and other sounds.

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swap out salt for

Eco Tip:

Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too!

working for Smart Energy Solutions...

Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club P.O. Box 15755 San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 (805)543-8717 sierraclub8@gmail.com www.sierraclub.santalucia.org

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Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2016

Lemon!

One of the most common diet directives you get in a hospital is to "cut out salt," but that can leave your food tasting bland, especially if you’re used to a high-sodium diet. Here's a healthy option. Add some flavor without endangering your health by sprinkling lemon juice on your meals.

Bonus: Lemon rinds ground in the disposal will deodorize your sink’s drain. Just slice a lemon into chubby quarters, slip them into the sink’s disposal, turn on the hot water and flip the power switch. Run the disposal until you hear the “gurgle-gurgle-grindgrind” sound and turn off.

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