Solstice Green Directory Summer 2021 Issue

Free

Summer 2021

A Surfing Goat?...pg 11 Don’t Throw Away That Old Yoga Mat...pg 18 Sustainable Travel...pg 28

Your Central Coast Guide to Green and Healthy Living!

SLO Veg...

local harvest delivery!

At SLO Veg, we aim to forge community connectedness through the distribution of fresh, local, and sustainable food. We’re so fortunate to live in a region where the sun (almost) always casts on the rich, fertile terroir of the Central Coast. Yet we wouldn’t be here without the dedicated vendors, farmers, and customers that compose the backbone of our business. Together, we’ve been able to share the nutrient-packed wealth of delicious, earthburnished produce, sown by the adept hands of our local farmers.

Each day, our team strategically assembles your Harvest and Fruit boxes, carefully selecting and arranging a bountiful cornucopia of all your produce dreams. Our products don’t have to travel far to get from the farm to your doorstep, this means that everything you receive is optimally fresh, packed full of nutrients and flavor. Furthermore, since the food we offer is transported within a smaller radius than conventional produce, choosing SLO Veg is helping to minimize emissions, plastic, and energy spent on transportation and quality preservation. Again, we’re so enamored by this area, and we feel a huge sense of social responsibility in establishing sustainable models that cater towards communal wealth and environmental health.

Our goal is to not only make us excited about finishing our vegetables, but to garner a sense of rootedness in our environment and our food, bridging the gap from seed to feed in providing an intimately tailored farm-to-fork experience.

Sign up today and save $10 off your first box with promo code: solstice For more info, go to www.sloveg.com

Trust that what you receive is supporting a healthy local economy, habitat, and workers!

Local Harvest

Delivery

May we raise children who love the unloved things, the dandelion, the worms and spider-lings.

Children who sense the rose needs the thorn and run into rain-swept days the same way they turn towards sun.

And when they're grown and someone has to speak for those who have no voice, may they draw upon that wilder bond, those days of tending tender things, and be the ones. ~ Nicolette Sowder

it seems we have a

New Priority...

It's no longer an unpopular priority. Interest in sustainability has surged in recent years. The pandemic has also made visible some of the results in the small changes we've had to make such as lowering our use of fuel and other resources. In many cases we have had to simplify our lives. At least temporarily. The most recent environmentalism poll from Gallup found that the proportion of the population that prioritized the environment as a concern was 35 points higher than that prioritizing the economy. This was the highest lead ever.

This poll shows that interest in green living is growing rapidly. However, many people often don’t know what steps to take. This little book can offer ways on creating a better and more sustainable environment. Please share your thoughts and send us your ideas. We are all in this together!

Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

The Green Team: (L to R) Endre Vargha, John Karp, Jenny Malott, Cheryl Lowman, Jacki Turner, Madeline Palaszewski, Margaret Hennessy, Diane Parnell, Vera Vargha, and 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 - Summer 2021

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing and Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Distribution

Monte Allen and Anthony Calandra

Graphic Designer John Karp

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski Vera Vargha Cheryl Lowman

Tech Support Jenny Malott

Bookkeeping/Copy Editor Diane Parnell

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

Solstice Green Directory is an officially certified California Green Business.

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 Summer 2021

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Sugar Free Coconut Ice Cream 10 A Surfing Goat? I "Kid" You Not! 11 Skate and Restore? 12 Eat Better with Berries! 15 Stay Positive! 16 Don't Throw Away That Old Yoga Mat! 18 Improve Your Immune System! 20 Every Drop Counts 22 It's Never too Late for Eco-Cleaning! 24 Summer Camping! 26 It's Time for Sustainable Travel! 28 Potatoes: Good for Your Health? 30

Directory ALTERATIONS & MENDING The Fitting Image (805) 541-2685

CBD SKIN & BODY CARE Life Elements (805) 460 – 4102

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

CBD OIL Life Elements (805) 460 – 4102

We can sew, alter, tailor, restyle, resize, and repair and/or mend!

3000 Broad St., San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 25

Please see display ad on page 12

BUILDING MATERIALS & RESOURCES 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 17

CAFÉ Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17 4

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin.

8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com Please see display ad on page 17

Handcrafted CBD Topicals 8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero

www.lifeelements.com

Please see display ad on page 17

Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 21

Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816

www.gcmwellnessadvocate.com gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 27

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICE Go! Computer Services www.go-cc.com (805) 704-0833

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 15

ECO-FRIENDLY PEST CONTROL The Pest Posse Too (805) 550-2959 Eco-friendly chemicals used to control pests.

thepestpossetoo.com

Please see display ad on page 23

www.miasimmons.com

Please see display ad on page 5

ENERGY WORK/ENERGY MEDICINE 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 5

More Than a Tech. More Than a Tutor.

On-Site Help for Your Computer!

Repair, Refurbish, Recycle, and More!

Please see display ad on page 19

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique

DIRECTORY

“Planet Friendly Cleaning with a Purpose” Eco Friendly Residential and Small Business Cleaning Toxic Product and Green Living Consultations Organization and Decluttering Packages

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

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774 Serving California’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA

Solarponics.com

Please see display ad on back cover

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

@solsticegreen

EFT consists of fingertip tapping on meridian end-points. Research shows EFT influences positive Neuroplasticity and supports the healing of PTSD, anxiety, stress, fear, phobias and depression, Emotional Freedom Techniques and reduces cortisol levels. EFT balances Mia Simmons the activity of the parasympathetic and Cert-1, ADV, Level 3 • Certified EFT Practitioner sympathetic regions of the brain, making Practice Established 2006 • mia@miasimmons.com 805.528.7586 • www.miasimmons.com EFT a powerful healing tool.

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

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DIRECTORY

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 17

GREEN-REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700

226 Front Street Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370

www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 19

HARVEST BOX DELIVERY SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780

Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business.

www.sloveg.com

Please see display ad on inside front cover

HEALTH / COACHING Nancy Rae Coaching (805) 203-0558

Certified Health Coach & Life Coach nancy@nancyraecoaching.com

www.nancyraecoaching.com Please see display ad on page 21

HEALTH / DETOX Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816

“Planet Friendly Cleaning with a Purpose” Eco Friendly Residential and Small Business Cleaning Toxic Product and Green Living Consultations Organization and Decluttering Packages

www.gcmwellnessadvocate.com gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 27

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 17

HEALTH FOOD STORES Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

HONEY BODY CARE Life Elements (805) 460 – 4102

Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin.

8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero

www.lifeelements.com

Please see display ad on page 17

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 21 6

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

California Fresh

Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm

Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm

We partner with other groups to help community members find resources and services.

Open Tues., Wed. & Thurs. - 1-3pm Sunnyside School 800 Manzanita Dr. Room 18 in Los Osos

losososcares.com

Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter (805) 543-8717

El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc

547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo

californiafreshmarket.com

santalucia.sierraclub.org

Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873

ORGANIC CAFE Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873

LIFE COACHING Nancy Rae Coaching (805) 203-0558

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

Please see display ad on inside back cover

Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

Certified Health Coach & Life Coach nancy@nancyraecoaching.com

www.nancyraecoaching.com Please see display ad on page 21

NON-PROFIT ECOSLO: Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo

Protecting & preserving SLO County's natural beauty through education, advocacy, and action since 1971!

Contact us to get involved!

(805) 544-1777

@ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram

Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

1495 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 19

PARKS & RECREATION Central Coast State Parks Association (805) 548-0390

CCSPA supports interpretation, education, and volunteer efforts in local state parks.

1124 Nipomo Street, Suite B, SLO

www.ECOSLO.org

centralcoastparks.org

Gay and Lesbian Alliance (805) 541-4252

PEST CONTROL The Pest Posse Too (805) 550-2959

1060 Palm Street, SLO Through education, support, recreation, advocacy, and partnerships, we promote the well-being of our LGBT community.

www.GALACC.org

DIRECTORY

San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425

Los Osos Cares (805) 592-2701

Eco-friendly chemicals used to control pests.

thepestpossetoo.com

Please see display ad on page 23 Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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DIRECTORY

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

1495 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 19

PRODUCE BOXES SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780

Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business.

www.sloveg.com

Please see display ad on inside front cover

RADIO BROADCASTING AGM California, Inc • (805) 781-2750

The Central Coast’s leading radio group: 98.1 KJUG, 93.3 KZOZ, COAST 104.5, The KRUSH 92.5 & 920 AM KVEC Locally owned and operated for over 30 years serving this community with pride.

Please see display ad on page 31

KCBX FM Public Radio (805) 549-8855

Symphonies, jazz, daily news & transforming stories Streaming live on the Internet at

www.KCBX.org

Please see display ad on page 32

REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700

226 Front Street Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370

www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 19

Like Us On Facebook! facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

RECYCLING 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 23

RE-SALE The Green Room 226 Front Street, Grover Beach

Unique restored and refurbished furniture and home decor Open by appointment only Email: Lcebulla@gmail.com

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 17

SOLAR ENERGY Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774 Serving California’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA

Solarponics.com

Please see display ad on back cover

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

805.473.5064

www.slosolstice.com 8

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

SUPERMARKET / ORGANIC FOODS California Fresh Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department

San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm

Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm

Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300 El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc

californiafreshmarket.com

Please see display ad on inside back cover

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 15

TAILORS The Fitting Image (805) 541-2685

We can sew, alter, tailor, restyle, resize, and repair and/or mend!

3000 Broad St., San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 25

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 17

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 23

Eco Crafts!

for kids...

by Madeline Palaszewski

“Mom, I’m bored!” With summer upon us, these are the words that many parents try to avoid. How about bringing out the Van Gogh in your kids this summer by setting up an eco-friendly and safe arts and crafts table? Many traditional art supplies like glues and paints contain toxic elements, including potential carcinogens. Choose safer alternatives by avoiding solvent-based markers, rubber cement and the strongest smelling glues. Generally, water-based or egg-based paints are likely to be less toxic and easier to clean up.

Encourage them to draw on the backs of used paper and decorate old containers, planters and boxes.

Show them how to make collages and mobiles out of old magazines and odds and ends.

Here’s to a creative and green summer season!

summer treat...sugar free

Coconut ice cream!

Recipe: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract/dash of cinnamon / pinch of sea salt / 2 cans of organic full-fat coconut milk / 4 large dates, pitted. Chill cans of coconut milk in the fridge overnight. Add ingredients to high-speed blender. Blend until very smooth. Place mixture in large bowl and freeze for 4 hours or until firm (taking out every hour to stir with fork) Optional: sprinkle with shredded coconut before serving.

This recipe is vegan.

Coconut Fact: Coconut oils contain medium chain triglycerides that are easy to digest. The oil is a source of energy and has an accelerating effect on the metabolism.

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Photo courtesy of Adi Ringer

A Surfing Goat?

I "kid" you not!

by Diane Parnell

What’s the easiest way to rid your yard of weeds and poison oak?

For Pismo Beach resident, Dana McGregor, the solution was simple: get a goat!

McGregor bought a goat, named her Goatee, and put her to work. He figured once her job was done, Goatee would make a fine meal for him and his friends. But something unexpected happened as the goat nibbled away – McGregor got attached to her and realized he could never eat her. He took her to the beach, put her on his surf board, and they rode the wave in together. The rest is history.

“I got her ten years ago and since that first day, she has brought me so much crazy joy,” McGregor reminisced recently. The pair became popular, locals and tourists alike honking and waving as they cruised by in his car, Goatee’s wooly head hanging out the back window. Later, her babies, Pismo and Grover, got in on the act.

“The goats just make people’s day, they make them smile,” McGregor laughed. He credits his goats for a lot of the good in his life. “They’re simple animals,” he said. “They help me keep life simple.”

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

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Skate and

Restore?

by John Karp

Skateboarding has long been associated with rebellious and destructive behavior, leaving a stigma in the eyes of those unfamiliar with the sport.

However, in recent years, views of skateboarding have evolved, even going so far as to be featured in this summer’s Tokyo Olympics for the very first time in history! With this in mind, skaters the world over must consider their impact on society and the environment. Here are just a few of things that skaters are doing to break the "Skate and Destroy" clichê once and for all...

Bamboo Decks: Many skate decks are made from maple trees. Considering the fact that some skaters may break their boards in a matter of weeks, this has caused increased maple deforestation.

Some of the more innovative designers have decided to experiment with bamboo skate decks. Bamboo grows 12

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

at a significantly quicker rate and some species are incredibly strong, making them potentially ideal for skate decks.

Recycle and Reuse: This seems like common sense, but reusing and repurposing old skate items such as broken decks, ramps, etc. can go a long way. This can be a wide variety of ideas from furniture to repurposed skate props to art! The next time you need a new coffee table, take a look online for a skate deck coffee table!

Felt Grip Tape: Grip tape is a staple in skating, allowing for a wide variety of tricks to be performed. However, Japanese pro skater, Gou Miyagi, has been using felt on his boards to mitigate degradation of footwear and avoid environmentally harmful chemicals associated with traditional grip tape. The one drawback? Tricks are significantly tougher to land. So... challenge accepted?

message from the south county

Chambers of Commerce

by Jocelyn Brennan, President/CEO

We are excited to host in-person meetings once again for South County Chambers of Commerce members. Our members, both businesses and nonprofits, can attend monthly business meetings in their city where they live or work that includes a timely update from their local government officials as well as opportunities for networking with other businesses.

This is a great way to stay connected and learn more about your community. There are Business Meetings currently for Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, Nipomo, and Oceano. There are also opportunities to join the Ambassador Committee, Governmental Affairs Business Meeting, or the Marketing Committee. If you prefer a remote option, we offer the ability to call in via Zoom. Now is a great time to re-establish connections and build back your business or nonprofit. South County Chambers of Commerce is here to support you. To learn more about Chamber opportunities, please visit southcountychambers.com.

Reach over

30,000 Readers for only $ 109

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

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slo county Shines Bright with 15,000 solar homes!

Three days before Earth Day, on April 19, 2021, San Luis Obispo County reached 15,000 residential solar energy systems. According to Solarponics, a solar energy company in California, the 15,000th solar energy system in SLO County was installed at a property in Atascadero.

California has led the country—and the world—in solar energy adoption for the past 15 years. Last year, the state added nearly 4,000MW of residential solar (equivalent to two Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power plants) as interest in home improvement surges, and customers suffering through power outages and extreme weather events seek energy resiliency.

The central coast boasts one of the highest per capita shares of residential solar in the country, and the U.S. Solar Market Insight Report estimates double-digit growth in the residential solar market over the next three years.

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

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

eat better with

Berries!

by Katy Budge

Eating colorful foods offers an easy path to good nutrition. One way to “eat your rainbow” is by enjoying all the wonderful summertime berries.

As a group, berries are high in fiber, low in calories, and pack a punch when it comes to antioxidants. When it comes to specifics, you can look to blueberries to help heart and brain function, strawberries to boost immunity, and raspberries for a big dose of Vitamin C. Goji berries are purported to prevent liver damage and ward off depression, while acai berries are touted as a superfood for everything from arthritis to weight loss. It’s highly recommended that you wash all fresh berries before consuming them. But wait until you’re ready to eat them.

The additional surface moisture tends to lessen

shelf life, so keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you use them. Berries have the added benefit of being extremely versatile.

The most obvious uses – besides just popping them in your mouth – are in smoothies and baked goods, but have some fun thinking outside the recipe box as well. Try a blueberrybased barbeque sauce on pork ribs, or a spinach/strawberry salad with blue cheese crumbles and balsamic vinaigrette, or a refreshing raspberry lemonade. That raspberry lemonade could be easily steered into cocktail hour, if you’re so inclined, and other berries could join you there as well.

Strawberries and blueberries work wonderfully in sangria, and frozen grapes are a fun addition to any kind of summertime drink!

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

15

stay

Positive!

Let's face it, the past year has not been easy for many of us. However, being pessimistic, and always assuming the worst, can have major negative consequences on your life. Seeing only the negative aspects of any situation can cause you to miss opportunities, neglect problems, and fail to take action that would otherwise improve your life. In fact, studies show that pessimists are more likely to develop chronic illnesses later in life than optimists. Here are some good tips on avoiding negativity: 1) Stop assuming the world is against you: It is an assumption that has no basis in reason or science. The sooner you can attribute your pessimism to a unique set of circumstances rather than the state of the world itself, the easier it'll be to change your perspective.

2) Understand that the past does not equal the future: Do not let a bad start turn into a self fulfilling prophecy for a bad ending.

3) See yourself as a cause, not an effect: You don't have to be a product or a victim of your circumstances. Stop thinking about what is happening to you and start thinking about what you can make happen. 4) Use positive affirmations: Write down short statements that remind you of what you're trying to change about the way you see the world. Put them in places where you'll see them every day. Some are: a) "Anything is possible." b) "I always have a choice." c) "I choose to live my positive side of life." 5) Remember that life is short: Pessimism breeds indecision.

It's a waste of time, and time is a limited resource that you can't afford to take for granted. 6) Be a balanced optimist: Prepare for the worst but hope for the best. The former makes you sensible, and the latter makes you an optimist.

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

Spinach a favorite again... sorry, kale!

Spinach is making a comeback as people want a healthy leafy green that’s easy to prepare and tastes great.

It’s an excellent source of vitamin K, important for maintaining bone health, as well as an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid. It’s also a good source of manganese, magnesium, iron, potassium, and vitamins B2 and B6. A one-cup serving has only about 30 calories and 4 grams of fiber. And it’s known to restore energy and increase vitality. If you buy spinach in a bag, make sure it’s a sealed plastic bag and store it in the fridge. It will keep for about 4 days this way. Do not wash spinach before storing. Choose bright, vibrantlooking leaves, not ones that have yellowed. Research shows that bright green spinach leaves have higher concentrations of Vitamin C than pale ones. Do not store cooked spinach as it will not keep very well. It’s best to cook and eat it right away.

Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5 Sun 10-4

Fresh local produce, bulk foods, vegetarian café, natural remedies

415 Morro Bay Blvd. in Morro Bay Family Membership Makes a Great Gift!

Club use included w/spa service

Relax by one of our pools

Or take a fitness class!

(805) 595-7600 • AvilaBayClub.com

6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, CA

CBD Pain Relief 8778 Plata Lane, Atascadero LifeElements.com Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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don't throw away that

Old Yoga Mat!

by Madeline Palaszewski I love to recycle things and pride myself in utilizing the smallest regular trash can for my curbside garbage service. Imagine my horror when I realized my old yoga mat isn’t recyclable?

Most yoga mats are made from PVC, which is one of the most difficult plastics to recycle. Some companies accept old mats for recycling, but it can be a pain to package and ship back. There are several ways to reuse an old yoga mat. They work well under area rugs to stop slippage and add padding. Old yoga mats work great as makeshift liners for drawers and they can be used as doormats, easy to wipe clean. Also, you can repurpose your old mat as a kneeling pad when you’re working in the garden. I repurposed mine as liners under two bathroom rugs.

Perfect!

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

5 tips on drinking

More Water!

1) Add fresh fruit. Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges, are classic water enhancers. Cucumber and fresh mint are refreshing flavors as well. 2) Use juice. Any fruit juice can be a good base flavor for water, but tart juices, like cranberry, pomegranate, grape, and apple, are especially delicious. 3) Try bouillon or broth. If your palate leans toward the savory, you may pass on tea and start sipping one of these hot and savory liquids instead. Choose low-fat and low-sodium versions 4) Drink tea. Herbal, fruit, green, white, and red teas are generally considered to be better for you than black teas (or coffee, for that matter) because they contain little to no caffeine. 5) Get sparkly. Try carbonated waters for an interesting change!

Quick Fact!

If tap water replaced bottled water in the U.S., it would save about $8 billion and help prevent 60 million plastic bottles from being discarded each day.

Carmen Green

Broker, Lic#00981917 226 Front Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.441.7370

Kathryn A. Perry, DO

Traditional Osteopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches.

1495 Palm St.

San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

(805) 548-8490

Traditional Osteopathic Practice

Preventative holistic healthcare taking into account the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.

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improve your

Immune System with Nutrition!

by Dr. Hepsharat Amadi

Before discussing which foods improve immunity, let me share a little about those foods and drinks that don't.

Number one on this list would be sugar.

Sugar has been found to reduce white blood cells' ability to kill germs the more of it is added to their environment.

Good alternatives to sugar are stevia and monkfruit extract. Besides sugar, dairy products and gluten-containing foods also tend to reduce immunity by being poorly digested, contributing to allergies and mucus. They can also slow down elimination which can also compromise immunity.

Congestion in the colon causes congestion in the lungs, which are the primary route by

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which a lot of germs enter the body.

This includes the nose and sinuses.

Over-consumption of red meat can also clog the colon, and it is the item that takes the longest to traverse the gut, because it is so fibrous and relatively difficult to break down. And, of course, drinking alcohol is not helpful for the immune system. In summary, the best nutrition to strengthen the immune system, is a plant-based organic diet.

Herbs used in cooking can be very helpful as adjuncts as well. Good examples of these would be ginger, garlic, onions, scallions, leeks, turmeric, shiitake mushrooms, and citrus fruits. www.dramadi.com

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21

every

Drop counts

Water is the new gold. For Californians, where drought has become the norm, water conservation is essential.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the summer of 2020 ranked as one of the hottest on record in the U.S., with August being especially hot and destructive. This summer, 94% of California is listed in severe drought. With climate change affecting ocean temperatures and rain patterns, Californians can expect drought conditions to affect their lives for years to come. We can make a difference in our day to day lives by saving water whenever possible. Every drop counts.

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by Madeline Palaszewski

Indoor Conservation Tips • Fix leaks, including leaky toilets • Install high-efficiency toilets, aerators on bathroom faucets, and waterefficient shower heads • Take shorter (5 minute) showers • Track your water bill and meter to curtail water use • Turn off water when brushing teeth or shaving • Use dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only Outdoor Conservation Tips • Plant drought-tolerant/resistant plants and trees • Recycle indoor water to use on plants • Refrain from watering your home landscape when it rains • Replace your grass/turf with waterwise plants (check to see if rebates are available) • Use a broom to clean driveways, patios, and sidewalks instead of water from a hose • Water your outdoor landscape earlier in the day when temperatures are cooler Water Saving Tips from California Department of Water Resources.

Lemons... try freezing them!

All kinds of people are saying that the entire lemon should be used with nothing wasted.

Not only for the obvious health benefits but also for the amazing taste. How? Simple, take an ORGANIC lemon, wash it, and then put it in the freezer. Once it is frozen you get whatever is necessary to grate or shred the whole lemon without even peeling it first. Then sprinkle it on your salad, ice cream, soup, cereals, noodles, spaghetti sauce, or whatever. No holds barred. What you will experience is that whatever you sprinkle it on will take on a taste you may never have experienced before. The lemon peel contains 5 to 10 times more vitamins than the lemon juice itself and the peel is the part that is usually wasted. Not only that, but the peel helps to get rid of toxins in the body.

Lemons may even be effective in killing cancer cells.

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

Appropriate items recycled.

Food stuff collected and taken to compost facility.

Contact us for more information:

805.489.9696

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Alternate monthly maintenance Spiders • Mosquitoes • Ants Wasps • Fleas • Ticks We use eco-friendly materials that are family and pet friendly!

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805-550-2959 • thepestposse2.com Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

23

it's never too late for

Eco-Cleaning!

by The “Green” Franciscan Sister, Janet Corcoran, OSF So you may have missed your regular "Spring Cleaning" schedule due to your many home and workrelated duties. For quite a few of us, our home and office are onein-the-same. You wouldn't let your office get too dirty, so don't let your home either! You may notice that many cleaners used to remove dirt and dust within our household may irritate our eyes, lungs, and skin due to the various hazardous substances within them. These are just some of the ways to clean in a more environmentally friendly way with baking soda and vinegar: 1. Vinegar is effective in cleaning windows and mirrors. Try using approximately a quart of water mixed with one-fourth cup of white vinegar on the windows and wipe dry with a newspaper or rag. 2. Baking soda may be used as a carpet deodorizer.

Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and let it remain overnight, then in the morning vacuum the carpet.

3. Sprinkle some baking soda inside 24

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

of the dishwasher before using, as it will remove some of the material that collects inside and refresh the smell of the unit. 4. Use baking soda for cleaning the toilet. Sprinkle the baking soda into the bowl, then squirt with vinegar and follow up by scouring with a toilet brush. 5. Clean the tub and tiles by using two cups of baking soda and enough water to make a thick paste. Place paste on the tub or tile and leave for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Use a soft rag to remove the paste from the surface. Spray the area with 50/50 vinegar and water to rinse.

6. For a slow moving drain, try using approximately a quarter cup of baking soda. Pour the soda down the clogged drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar.

Tightly close the drain until fizzing stops, then flush the drain area with boiling water. For completely clogged drains, use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to dislodge the clogged material.

7. Counters and walls can be cleaned with a mixture of roughly one part vinegar and three parts water.

sustainable

Fashion Sense

by Madeline Palaszewski

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

~ Arthur Ashe When it comes to living more sustainably, there are many choices we can make in our lives that affect our environment. One of those choices is our wardrobe and being conscious of the harmful effects of cheap, fast fashion. Many of the fabrics used in fast fashion are made up of microfibers with particles so small they pollute our oceans. They also wear out quickly and add to our already burdened landfills. When putting together a wardrobe, select items that are made of high quality fabrics, like recycled cotton, organic hemp and linen that will last for years. When your favorite fashion pieces begin to wear or need a style upgrade, getting them altered or repaired is a great way to keep a wardrobe chic and eco-friendly. It just takes a little focus to design a sustainable wardrobe that will be enjoyed for decades.

“Star tw Use w here you ar hat e.

Do wh you have. at you can.” ~ Arthur A she

We sew, alter, tailor, restyle, resize, repair, and/or mend most any soft goods, such as: • Formalwear • Purses • Shoes • Suits • Jeans • Casual Wear • • Uniforms • Leather • Outdoor Gear • And More! • M-F 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM • Wed.‘til 7:00 PM

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25

summer

Camping!

by Margaret DeStefano

In addition to great healthy fun and experiencing wild life, camping is an economical way to take mini trips with your family and friends.

Here are some tips for your next camping trip: 1) Leave no trace. Don't litter or destroy natural terrain in any way. Soft soled shoes should be worn around the campsite to minimize damage to the ground. 2) Buy bulk organic foods and cook them on the greenest stove that meets your needs. 3) Choose your camp stove wisely for backpacking, Sustainable Travel International recommends the Sierra stove, a

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

lightweight, super-efficient model that can burn pine cones, wood chips, tree bark, charcoal or any other solid fuel.

4) Pack biodegradable shampoo or soap for cleaning up. Dispose of them well away from water sources. 5) Use a large collapsible bottle so that you don't need to make repeated trips to the waterhole. Waste water should be directed or emptied onto dry ground or vegetation, not into a stream or river.

6) Don't camp near old, sickly, or decaying trees, and choose a level, well-drained spot so that the areas won't mark so easily. 6) In order to keep the ground intact, try not to level the ground on which your campsite sits. Place cloths under your sleeping mat to make it level.

Home and Business Cleaning Organization and Decluttering Green Living Consultations Green Clean Machine is grateful to only use safe and non toxic cleaners.

GCM provides all the cleaning supplies except a vacuum cleaner, toilet brush, broom and dustpan (to prevent cross contamination of allergens). When you walk through your house or workplace, we want you to feel uplifted and at ease. We are licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a free walkthrough.

(805) 249-3816 gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com www.gcmwellnessadvocate.com GCMWellnessAdvocate green_clean_machine Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

27

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

it's time for

Sustainable

Travel!

by Margaret DeStefano

1) Plan Slower Adventures: Warpspeed travel has become the norm of the 21st century. When you travel, taking longer trips allows you to savor the journey and truly appreciate the culture of your chosen destinations.

2) Travel Closer To Home: Whether you’re taking a trip to the mountains that run through your home state, going camping in your backyard or staying in a nearby beach house, the places close to your home can be just as beautiful and special as a destination location.

Explore your roots, your home, your country.

3) Pack Mindfully: Although it might seem negligible, the heavier you pack your bag, the heavier the plane, the train and the car, which only adds to the fuel needed to make your choice of transportation chug along. Pack minimally and consciously. 4) Clip Your Wings: Travel by train and revel in the intricacies of the countryside that you would have otherwise missed if you’d opted for a plane.

Trains use 50% less fuel than planes, and

their carbon emissions aren’t released right into the upper atmosphere like the emissions of planes. 5) Go Plastic Free: Pack reusables, such as insulated water bottles, food containers or hemp tote bags. Please don’t dump your trash in your travel destinations. 6) Choose Local: Funnel your hard-earned travel funds into the small, locally owned hostels, cafes, shops and restaurants.

If you really want to go the extra mile, choose eco-friendly companies that use local, organic, ethical products, supplies and food. 7) Shop Carefully: Shop locally, buy handcrafted and be willing to spend extra money on quality products. 8) Respect Animals: Any human behavior that forces animals to behave in opposition to their natural instincts, like riding camels in India, cuddling baby tigers in Thailand, feeding human food to native animals or fishing and hunting for sport, should be avoided at all costs. 9) Give Feedback: Send those difficult emails to hotels, businesses and companies that were not attempting to minimize their carbon footprint, 10) Be Resourceful: Find alternatives to single-use plastics or green-wash in general.

29

Potatoes good for your health?

Potatoes are a healthy food that offer an abundance of benefits. Typically, potatoes are eaten with butter, heavy amounts of oil, topped with cheese, cream or bacon, or alongside a big piece of steak. This is where the problem and the confusion around potatoes stems from. They are a nutritious, healthy food that are rich in vitamins A, C, and B-complex and minerals such as manganese, iron, magnesium, copper, and potassium.

Potatoes contain an antioxidant called quercetin which has anti-cancer and cardio-protective properties. They are an excellent source of B6, a vitamin that is essential for the formation of almost every new cell in the body.

Vitamin B6 also is a vital component for the neurological system and for the creation of amines which are neurotransmitters that send messages from one nerve to the next. This makes potatoes an important food for those who are heavy thinkers and those recovering from stress damage and adrenal exhaustion. They are also particularly beneficial for depression,

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

insomnia, sleep disorders, brain fog, and stress related illnesses. Potatoes themselves are virtually fat-free and packed with dietary fiber, which also helps to lower blood LDL cholesterol, and keep blood sugar levels stable and within normal range.

Potato and Herb Salad Recipe: 6 potatoes / 2 tsp olive oil / juice of 1 lemon / 2 tsp chopped red pepper / 2 tsp raw honey / ¼ cup finely chopped red onion / 2 tbsp. finely chopped chives / 1 tsp chopped dill / 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped / sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste / finely chopped jalapeño (optional) / pinch mustard powder (optional).

Steam peeled and cut potatoes until tender, and they can be pierced with a fork without crumbling (appx. 10 min).

Set aside to cool. Prepare the rest of the ingredients. Once the potatoes are cool, add the other ingredients into a big bowl with them, carefully tossing everything together.

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

31

Salad Recipe: 1 pound fresh organic strawberries, halved / 1 sliced banana / 2 large organic peaches, sliced / ¼ cup small fresh basil leaves / 1 cup fresh orange juice / 1 tbsp agave syrup or honey (optional) / 1½ tbsp white wine vinegar / 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil / sea salt to taste. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar and vinegar. Bring to a boil, then cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to about ½ cup. Remove from heat and add oil and salt to pan, stirring with a whisk. Let stand 2 minutes. Combine strawberries and peaches in a serving dish. Pour the dressing over the fruit. Sprinkle with basil. Serve immediately.

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Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2021

an award winning

Shopping experience!

Take a trip to the California Fresh grocery store in Pismo Beach and you’ll see why so many Grocer awards line the walls. As you begin your tour, you’ll notice a wide selection of freshly prepared hot or cold deli offerings, a sushi bar, bakery department, full service butcher shop, full selection of health and fitness products (including an in-house consultant to help answer any questions), fresh wild caught seafood, bulk bins and a lot more. While there, you can also choose from a wide variety of fresh local produce. Like fresh

by Kathleen Stout, M.A.

roasted coffee? Select your favorite at the in-house coffee bar. If you’re in the mood for a freshly squeezed organic juice, the juice bar has just what you need. Enjoy lunch at one of their restaurant-style booths, offering a comfortable spot to indulge in the many hot or cold choices available at the deli.

Stop by any one of their store locations in Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, or El Rancho Marketplace in Solvang and enjoy an award winning shopping experience.

Coffee and Organic Juice Bar, Deli and Bakery Department, and Full Service Butcher Shop plus Fresh Wild Caught Seafood

555 Five Cities Dr • Pismo Beach, CA • (805) 295-7162 771 E. Foothill Blvd • San Luis Obispo, CA • (805) 250-1425 2886 Mission Dr • Solvang, CA • (805) 688- 4300 Open Daily 6am –10pm • www.CaliforniaFreshMarket.com

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