Solstice Winter Edition 13-14

Free

Winter 2013/2014

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

Bring Kids to the Farmers Market...page 42 Removing Toxins with House Plants...page 44 Time for Winter Squash...page 49

The Central Coast Guide to Green and Healthy Living!

Let us permit nature to have her way.

She understands her business better than we do. ~ Michel de Montaigne

Seventh Generation

FEATURES

...more than a brand of eco-friendly cleaning products!

Sustainability is a word that is used a lot, but seldom clearly defined.

Native American tribes actually had sustainable living practices. They were resourceful and used every part of the animal that they killed, wasting nothing. They left little footprint ecologically, living in modest structures made of biodegradable materials and used fuels negligibly detrimental to the surrounding environment. They (unlike their white European counterparts) understood that they were just a small part in the greater system of Mother Nature.

The Iroquois, in particular, were very forward thinking. The concept of "seventh generation sustainability" was practiced by the Iroquois and urged the current generation to live in a manner beneficial to those seven generations ahead. Oren Lyons, Chief of the Onondaga Nation, stated, “We are looking ahead, as is one of the first mandates given us as chiefs, to make sure and to make every decision that we make, relate to the welfare and well-being of the seventh generation to come.�

What about our seventh generation? Something to think about.

Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

Photos by

Sarah Twis

selman

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 - Winter 2013/2014

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing & Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Graphic Designer John Karp

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski and Jan Harris

Tech Support & Graphic Design Jenny Malott and Chris Maloney

Contents The Solstice Green Directory Winter 2013/2014

Upcoming Events

4

directory 5 features Ten Ways to a Greener New Year

17

Having a Holiday Party?

18

Soup to Nuts

20

The Power of Water

22

Herbal Help for Seasonal Sickness

24

Green with Gratitude

30

Got Ants? Get Rid of Them Naturally

32

Gary Elem, Diane Parnell, and Sarah Twisselman

Vegetarian Eggplant Stew (Ratatouille)

34

Ways to Live a Longer and Happier Life

37

Distribution

Some Tips to Keep Healthy This Season

38

Toys for Your Tots

41

Bring Kids to the Farmers Market

42

Best House Plants for Removing Indoor Toxins

44

Cranberries... A Seasonal Treat

47

Time for Winter Squash

49

Special Thanks To

Claire Kulda

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.

Upcoming Events

(All events are open to the public)

Wednesday, December 4th Solstice Holiday Green Mixer

Sponsored by New Frontiers Where: Bliss Café 778 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo (Downtown) http://www.blisscafeslo.com When: 5:30 – 7:30 PM Food Sampling & Refreshments by Bliss Café, plus Live Music by Anthony Roselli! $5 donation to benefit The Food Bank of SLO. Over $1,000 in FREE Giveaways, Meet the GREEN Wizard, and participate FREE in our Mini Soapbox!

Thursday, March 20th, 2014 Spring Equinox Mixer

Where: Kohana Pharmacy 181 Tank Farm Rd., Ste. 120, San Luis Obispo http://www.kohanarx.com 805.542.0864 When: 5:30 – 7:30 PM Food & Music: TBA $5 donation to benefit a local Non-profit. Over $1,000 in FREE Giveaways, Meet the GREEN Wizard, and participate FREE in our Mini Soapbox!

Make new friends... make a difference!

Call for sponsorship information:

805.473.5064

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

directory ACCESSORIES & GIFTS

ANTIQUE SHOPS

Bambu Batu • (805) 788-0806

The Cottage • (805) 237-8533

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

1320 B Pine St., Paso Robles, CA 93446 Antiques, home décor and all things inspiring. www.thecottageonpine.com Please see display ad on page 28

HumanKind Fair Trade • (805) 594-1220

Reminisce Antiques Etc. • (805) 239-1001

Non-profit fair trade retail store eaturing clothing and gifts handmade in developing countries 982 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo 93401 www.humankindslo.org/

1344 Pine St., Paso Robles, CA 93446 A village of shops. Something for everyone! www.reminiscepasorobles.com Please see display ad on page 28

Two Susans’ Antiques • (805) 226-2228

ADVERTISING AGENCY AR & Co. PR & Marketing • (805) 239-4443 Local and National Ad Campaigns, Publicity Specialists, Branding, Websites and Search Engine Optimization www.arandcompany.com Home of “The A-Team” Please see display ad on page 21

1320 Pine St. A, Paso Robles, CA 93446 Antiques and vintage wares including furniture, primitives, glass, salts, advertising, kitchen, and lighting for your home or collection. www.twosusansantiques.com Please see display ad on page 28

ARCHITECTS Liv-In Environments • (805) 481-1066 Gregory D. Soto, Architect Passive Solar Design/Sustainable Design for Residential & Commercial

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Kohana Pharmacy & Center for Regenerative Medicine (805) 542-0864 • www.kohanarx.com 181 Tank Farm Rd. Suite 120 • San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 25

Like Us On Facebook!

www.facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

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

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DIRECTORY

AROMATHERAPY

Original Sprout • (888) 805-2229

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 51

Natural hair & skin care for the whole family www.OriginalSprout.com Please see display ad on page 33

Color Aromas • (805) 305-0046 Fragrant essential oils/misters combine Aromatherapy with Color Therapy for a sensory experience that improves your mood www.ConsciousColors.com Please see display ad on page 28

Ruth’s Herbal Remedies • (805) 481-9205 Handcrafted products made w/ certified organic herbs/ essential oils for healing & relief www.ruthsherbalremedies.com Please see display ad on page 28

ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers • sloastrologers@aol.com Call for updated meeting information. sloastrologers.blogspot.com Please see display ad on page 52

ATTRACTIONS 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

BABY & CHILDREN EcoBambino • (805) 540-7222 863 Monterey St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Natural, eco-friendly products for children. www.ShopEcoBambino.com

BARN OWL CONSERVATION Nature’s Remedy • (805) 712-8609 Environmentally Safe Rodent Control 365 Nights a Year. www.naturesremedy.co/ www.Facebook/pages/Natures-Remedy Please see display ad on page 31

BARTER BUSINESS GROUP Cal Coast Trade • Call Greg • (805) 975-5334 A sustainable way to do business!

Watch the video on our web site… www.calcoasttrade.com Please see display ad on page 7

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BATH & BODY

Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Ruth’s Herbal Remedies • (805) 481-9205 Super hydrating/anti-aging facial & massage cremes Made with all certified organic ingredients Please see display ad on page 28

BATH & DESIGN CENTER Pacific Coast Kitchen, Bath & Design Center (805) 541-2786 • pacificcoastkitchenbath.com Kitchen & Bath Plumbing Fixtures • Faucets • Hardware Bath Accessories • Custom Cabinetry Please see display ad on page 19

BREWERY CentralCoastBrewing.com • (805) 783-BREW Local, fresh & delicious beers • 1422 Monterey St, SLO Sustainable business practices, including bike delivery Please see display ad on page 14

BUILDING 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 33

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072 Non-profit green bldg education & support www.slogreenbuild.org

BUSINESS TRADING Cal Coast Trade • Call Greg • (805) 975-5334 A sustainable way to do business!

Watch the video on our web site… www.calcoasttrade.com Please see display ad on page 7

BUS SERVICE 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 40

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

805.473.5064

CAFÉ

COLOR THERAPY

SunShine Health Foods/Shine Café

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

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT R. Barkley & Associates • (800) 211-5677 Professional Business Services Taxes, Bookkeeping, Home Loans, Investment Planning www.rbarkley.com Please see display ad on page 33

CLEANING

Get transformative guidance and a personalized Color Aromas prescription with Visionary Color Therapist Constance Hart. www.ConsciousColors.com Please see display ad on page 28

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS

DIRECTORY

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

Conscious Colors/Color Aromas (805) 305-0046

CHC of the Central Coast, Inc. Corp. HQ: 150 Tejas Place, Nipomo, CA 93444 www.communityhealthcenters.org • (866) 614-INFO Please see display ad on page 9

CHC Arroyo Grande 260 Station Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 (805) 473-6201

CHC Arroyo Grande Fair Oaks/The Doctor’s Office 1057 Grand Ave, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 (805) 270-1700

CHC Atascadero

Coastline Cleaning Company • (805) 400-5433 Commercial • Residential • Rental Properties • RCFE’s Always Eco-friendly • coastlinecleaning@gmail.com www.coastlinecleaningslo.com Please see display ad on page 19

CLOTHING & BAMBOO

7512 Morro Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 (805) 792-1400

CHC Cambria 2515 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428 (805) 927-5292

CHC Cuyama

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

4711 Highway 166, New Cuyama, CA 93254 (805) 766-2149

CHC Guadalupe 4581 10th Street, Suite C, Guadalupe CA 93434 (805) 343-5577

Save Your Cash, Increase Business An innovative way to do business sustainably

Call Gregg now (805) 975-5334

www.calcoasttrade.com

Like Us On Facebook! www.facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS (CONT.)

DIRECTORY

CHC Lompoc 425 W. Central Ave, Suite 201, Lompoc CA 93436 Medical - (805) 737-1169 Dental - (805) 735-2846

CHC Morro Bay 660 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442 (805) 772-1055

CHC Nipomo 150 Tejas Place, Nipomo, CA 93444 Medical – (805) 929-3211 Dental – (805) 929-3254

CHC Oceano 1981 Cienega Street, Oceano, CA 93445 (805) 489-4236

CHC Paso Robles 416 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 Medical - (805) 238-7250 Pediatrics – (805) 286-3100

CHC San Luis Obispo – Medical/Pediatrics 77 Casa Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 269-1500

CHC San Luis Obispo - Women’s Health 1551 Bishop St., Suite B-240, SLO, CA 93401 (805) 549-0402

CHC Santa Maria - Arbor Medical Group Women’s Health/OB/GYN 1418 E. Main St, Suite 210, Santa Maria CA 93454 (805) 928-3678

CHC Santa Maria I - Primary Care 2801 Santa Maria Way, Suite A, SM, CA 93454 (805) 934-5400

CHC Santa Maria I Women’s Health/Well Pregnancy Prog.

1385 Mission Street, San Miguel, CA 93451 (805) 467-2344

CHC Templeton 325 Posada Lane, Templeton, CA 93465 Primary Care - (805) 542-6703 Dental - (805) 542-6702 Women’s Health - (805) 542-6701

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY Kohana Pharmacy & Center for Regenerative Medicine (805) 542-0864 • www.kohanarx.com 181 Tank Farm Rd. Suite 120 • San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 25

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 in San Luis Obispo County.

11491 Los Osos Valley Rd., SLO; 1399 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande; 8380 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 13th & Spring Streets in Paso Robles 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 21

DENTAL Pacific Dental Excellence • (805) 929-6814 Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 31

DOULA

2801 Santa Maria Way, Suite B, SM, CA 93455 (805) 934-5402

Julie Belmonte • (805) 215-3153

CHC Santa Maria II

Let me help you during delivery and care for you and your newborn in your home. Sliding fee available.

201 W. Mill Street, Santa Maria, CA 93458 Pediatrics - (805) 345-3701 Dental – (805) 345-3702

CHC Santa Maria III - Primary Care 1414 S. Miller St, Ste 9, SM CA 93454 (805) 345-3750

CHC Santa Maria - Broadway Dental 210 N. Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454 (805) 347-1171

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CHC San Miguel

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

DRY CLEANERS Paul’s Dry Cleaners & Laundry (805) 543-2250 State-Of-The-Art Dry Cleaning • Full Laundry Drapery & Down Specialists • Beat Competitor’s Coupons 214 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 www.paulsdrycleaner.com Please see display ad on page 27

EAR CONING

ENTERTAINMENT Acoustico

(805) 234-2994 • earconingbynicole@gmail.com Ear candling is a natural way to remove wax & debris from the ear canal. It is a safe and simple procedure that has many benefits.

Please see display ad on page 26

A two-piece musical ensemble providing green friendly music for public and private events. www.acoustico.org

EARTH FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Original Sprout • (888) 805-2229 Natural hair & skin care for the whole family www.OriginalSprout.com Please see display ad on page 33

San Luis Obispo International Film Festival Film • Wine • Fun March 5-9, 2014 www.slofilmfest.org (805) 546-3456 "One of the best film events in the country" according to Moviemaker Magazine!

Please see display ad on inside back cover

DR. MAGIC • (805) 544-7737 www.drmagic.biz

704 Main St., Cambria, CA 93428 (805) 927-1700 Please see display ad on page 33

Educational Fun-filled COMEDY MAGIC for All Ages and Colorful, Biodegradable Baloon Animals, Hats, & Heart Flowers/Happy Face Wands!

Great Shows for Children to Seniors as DR. MAGIC or “The GREEN WIZARD”!

Please see display ad on page 51

The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney

“The GREEN WIZARD”

ENERGY WORK / ENERGY MEDICINE Amethyst Healing Center

DIRECTORY

Nicole Bush, Ear Coning Specialist

(805) 544-7737 • www.drmagic.biz (805) 478-1223 Teaching boys & girls about “GREEN LIVING” now!

Shaman, Holistic Nutritionist, Medical Intuitive Supporting family activities to: Recycle, Reduce, Reuse!

405 E. Branch St. #107, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 Sustainable Magic & Biodegradable Balloons. www.thehealingworks.org CHC_Solstice-Directory_Ad_08-2012_mech.pdf 1 Shows 8/13/2012 2:55:07 PM Please see display ad on page 51 Please see display ad on page 26

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

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DIRECTORY

EVENT SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

MHI Tech Labs • (661) 513-3828

Donna Randolph • (805) 925- 4610

Web Sites, Internet Media, Event Photography, and Creative Services • www.mhilabs.com Please see display ad on page 10

State Farm Agent Providing Insurance & Financial Services 1650 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 93454 donna@donnarandolph.com • www.donnarandolph.com

ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Liv-In Environments • (805) 481-1066 Gregory D. Soto, Architect Passive Solar Design/Sustainable Design for Residential & Commercial

FAIR TRADE HumanKind Fair Trade • (805) 594-1220 Non-profit fair trade retail store featuring clothing and gifts handmade in developing countries 982 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo 93401 www.humankindslo.org/

FILM FESTIVAL San Luis Obispo International Film Festival Film • Wine • Fun March 5-9, 2014 www.slofilmfest.org (805) 546-3456 "One of the best film events in the country" according to Moviemaker Magazine!

Please see display ad on inside back cover

View our podcasts and commercial: www.slosolstice.com/solstice-media

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 26

GARDEN BEAUTIFICATION RONS • (805) 489-4747 850 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433 Succulents, house plants and unique home accessories www.ronsingroverbeach.com Please see display ad on page 28

GIFTS EcoBambino • (805) 540-7222 863 Monterey St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Natural, eco-friendly products for children www.ShopEcoBambino.com

Smoobage • (805) 459 - 5751 Art • Gifts • Toys 898 Main St. Ste. C, Morro Bay Open Monday - Saturday Please see display ad on page 28

web design IT support photography video creative services

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 33

ProSource Flooring • (805) 781-2657 The Largest Wholesale Flooring Source in North America • www.prosourcefloors.com Please see display ad on page 26

GREEN-REALTOR Allyson Nakasone, Realtor®, Ecobroker® (805) 234-0809 www.mySLOhome.com Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate 689 Tank Farm Road, Suite 230, SLO Please see display ad on page 31

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

C. Green Real Estate Co.

HEALTHY COOKING

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 23

Ruth’s Savory Sauces • (805) 481-9205

HAIR & SKIN PRODUCTS

HERBALISTS / HERBAL REMEDIES

Original Sprout • (888) 805-2229 Natural hair & skin care for the whole family www.OriginalSprout.com Please see display ad on page 33

Ruth’s Herbal Remedies • (805) 481-9205 Made w/ all certified organic herbs & oils; locally handcrafted healing tinctures & salves for ailments & pain relief • www.ruthsherbalremedies.com Please see display ad on page 28

HEALTH / DETOX

HOME DÉCOR

Relished Food - Holistic Nutrition Laureen Wallravin, CNT, FDN Detox your diet and unlock your body’s powerful healing potential!

Relishedfood.com • 805.242.3677

The Cottage • (805) 237-8533

Pacific Dental Excellence • (805) 929-6814 Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 31

HEALTH / FITNESS Tropical paradise, tennis, ozone pools, classes incl. yoga, cafe & catering, conf. rooms, special events avilabayclub.com Please see display ad on page 21

HEALTH FOOD STORES Bliss Café Tues-Sat 11-9pm & Sun-Mon 11-6pm Good Karma Cuisine, Smoothie, Juice Bar & Whole Food Market 778 Higuera Street, SLO (in the back of the Network) www.blisscafeslo.com Please see display ad on page 12

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

HEALTH / HEALING CENTERS 704 Main St., Cambria, CA 93428 (805) 927-1700 Please see display ad on page 33

1320 B Pine St., Paso Robles, CA 93446 Antiques, home décor and all things inspiring. www.thecottageonpine.com Please see display ad on page 28

Reminisce Antiques Etc. • (805) 239-1001 1344 Pine St., Paso Robles, CA 93446 A village of shops. Something for everyone! www.reminiscepasorobles.com Please see display ad on page 28

RONS • (805) 489-4747

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

Amethyst Healing Center

DIRECTORY

Local, organic sauces that add a healthy, spicy zest to pastas, grains, soups, & more; pesto, marinara, tomatillo, Thai curry & marmalade Please see display ad on page 28

850 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433 Succulents, house plants and unique home accessories www.ronsingroverbeach.com Please see display ad on page 28

Two Susans’ Antiques• (805) 226-2228 1320 Pine St. A, Paso Robles, CA 93446 Antiques and vintage wares including furniture, primitives, glass, salts, advertising, kitchen, and lighting for your home or collection. www.twosusansantiques.com Please see display ad on page 28

HOME MORTGAGE LOAN SERVICE R. Barkley & Associates • (800) 211-5677 New Purchase & Refinancing of Conforming FHA & Jumbo Home Loans at Record Low Interest Rates www.rbarkley.com Please see display ad on page 33

HOSPITALS Arroyo Grande Community Hospital (805) 489-4261 Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 345 S. Halcyon Rd. Arroyo Grande arroyograndehospital.org Please see display ad on page 29

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

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HOSPITALS (CONT.)

DIRECTORY

French Hospital Medical Center (805) 543-5353 Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 1911 Johnson Ave. San Luis Obispo frenchmedicalcenter.org Please see display ad on page 29

Marian Regional Medical Center (805) 739-3000 Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 1400 E. Church St, Santa Maria marianmedicalcenter.org Please see display ad on page 29

INSURANCE Donna Randolph • (805) 925- 4610 State Farm Agent Providing Insurance & Financial Services 1650 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 93454 donna@donnarandolph.com • www.donnarandolph.com

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine • (805) 226-5190 1020 Pine Street, Suite A Paso Robles CA 93446 Dr. Darya Boland, HBSc ND Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine www.salusintegrativemedicine.com Salusinfo1020@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 35

INVESTMENT SERVICES Virginia Perry Souza • (805) 347-4544 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 23

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company • (805) 400-5433 Commercial • Residential • Rental Properties • RCFE’s Always Eco-friendly • coastlinecleaning@gmail.com www.coastlinecleaningslo.com Please see display ad on page 19

www.slosolstice.com 12

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Enviroclean • (805) 710-4101

LOCAL ARTISTS GALLERY Smoobage • (805) 459-5751 Art • Gifts • Toys 898 Main St. Ste. C, Morro Bay Open Monday - Saturday Please see display ad on page xx

MASSAGE

KIDS

Amethyst Healing Center

Nicole Bush, Ear Coning Specialist (805) 234-2994 A beneficial, natural and safe treatment to promote healthy ears for adults and children. earconingbynicole@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 26

KITCHEN & DESIGN CENTER Pacific Coast Kitchen, Bath & Design Center (805) 541-2786 • pacificcoastkitchenbath.com Kitchen & Bath Plumbing Fixtures • Faucets • Hardware Bath Accessories • Custom Cabinetry Please see display ad on page 19

704 Main St., Cambria, CA 93428 (805) 927-1700 Please see display ad on page 33

DIRECTORY

Office Cleaning • Window Cleaning • Outside Maintenance Environmentally safe & LEED approved products Fax: 805-619-7189 • envirocleanplus@aol.com www.envirocleanplus.com Please see display ad on page 21

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 51

MEDICAL CENTERS Arroyo Grande Community Hospital (805) 489-4261 Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 345 S. Halcyon Rd. Arroyo Grande arroyograndehospital.org Please see display ad on page 29

LANDSCAPE DESIGN Sage Ecological Landscapes & Nursery (805) 574-0777 Sustainable gardens & gifts Complete landscape services 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos sagelandscapes.net Please see display ad on page 39

French Hospital Medical Center (805) 543-5353 Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 1911 Johnson Ave. San Luis Obispo frenchmedicalcenter.org Please see display ad on page 29

LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Sage Ecological Landscapes & Nursery (805) 574-0777

Marian Regional Medical Center (805) 739-3000

Sustainable gardens & gifts Complete landscape services 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos sagelandscapes.net Please see display ad on page 39

Dignity Health of the Central Coast Recognized for Quality, Safety and Service 1400 E. Church St, Santa Maria marianmedicalcenter.org Please see display ad on page 29

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 in San Luis Obispo County.

11491 Los Osos Valley Rd., SLO; 1399 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande; 8380 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 13th & Spring Streets in Paso Robles www.sesloc.org Please see display ad on back cover

METABOLIC DIET Relished Food - Holistic Nutrition Laureen Wallravin, NTP, FDN Find out what foods work for your unique body chemistry with non-invasive metabolic testing. www.relishedfood.com • 805.242.3677

Follow Us On Twitter!

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

13

-MUSEUMS

DIRECTORY

The Natural History Museum • (805) 614-0806 412 S. McClelland St. Santa Maria Where natural history comes to life. www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com

MUSIC Acoustico A two-piece musical ensemble providing green friendly music for public and private events. www.acoustico.org

NATURAL RODENT CONTROL Nature’s Remedy • (805) 712-8609 Environmentally Safe Rodent Control 365 Nights a Year. www.naturesremedy.co/ www.Facebook/pages/Natures-Remedy Please see display ad on page 31

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine • (805) 226-5190 1020 Pine Street, Suite A Paso Robles CA 93446 Dr. Darya Boland, HBSc ND Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine www.salusintegrativemedicine.com Salusinfo1020@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 35

NETWORKING Solstice Green Directory • (805) 473-5064 Solstice Green Mixers • Mix & meet local green businesses that make a difference!

See NEW Website for venues, times and other events. www.slosolstice.com

Follow Us On Twitter!

http://twitter.com/slosolstice Your Local Brewery since 1998

NEWCOMERS SERVICES Local Welcome Service Since 1972 (805) 773-6418 Free newcomer packet of maps, coupons & local info. www.centralcoastwelcome.com • Liz Hiatt

NON-PROFIT Central Coast Grown • (805) 769-8344 Your connection to local food & farming on the Central Coast Find out more at www.centralcoastgrown.org Please see display ad on page xx

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter 547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo (805) 543-8717 • santalucia.sierraclub.org Please see display ad on page 43

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072 Non-profit green bldg education & support www.slogreenbuild.org

NUTRITION Relished Food - Holistic Nutrition Laureen Wallravin, NTP, FDN Find out what foods work for your unique body chemistry with non-invasive metabolic testing. www.relishedfood.com • 805.242.3677

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 26

OFFICE SPACE San Luis Business Center • (805) 540-5100 Shared resources - sustainable options/office space 4251 South Higuera, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Please see display ad on page 48

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

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

1422 Monterey in San Luis Obispo• 783-BREW www.centralcoastbrewing.com 14

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

777 Pismo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Please see display ad on page 23

PHARMACY

REFLEXOLOGY

Kohana Pharmacy & Center for Regenerative Medicine

Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage

PHYSICIAN

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 51

RE-USE

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

Goodwill Industries • (805) 544-0542

777 Pismo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Please see display ad on page 23

DIRECTORY

(805) 542-0864 • www.kohanarx.com 181 Tank Farm Rd. Suite 120 • San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 25

Facilitating reuse for over 100 years, with all types of second-hand merchandise • www.scgoodwill.org Please see display ad on page 15

PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM AR & Co. PR & Marketing • (805) 239-4443 Local and National Ad Campaigns, Publicity Specialists, Branding, Websites and Search Engine Optimization www.arandcompany.com Home of “The A-Team” Please see display ad on page 21

RIDESHARING Regional Rideshare • (805) 781-1385 Information on bicycle commuting, ridesharing, transit and telework • www.rideshare.org Please see display ad on page 35

SENIOR CARE Julie Belmonte • (805) 215-3153

RADIO BROADCASTING AGM California • (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 www.krush925.com Please see display ad on page 46

Caring for seniors in their home – non-medical care.

Providing transportation, companionship and meals.

Let me help someone you love.

El Dorado Broadcasters • (805) 545-0101 KSLY-FM, KSTT-FM, KURQ-FM, KVEC-AM KSMX-AM, KSMY-FM, KSNI-FM, KXFM-FM Please see display ad on page 36

REALTOR-GREEN Allyson Nakasone, Realtor®, Ecobroker® (805) 234-0809 www.mySLOhome.com Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate 689 Tank Farm Road, Suite 230, SLO Please see display ad on page 31

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 23

$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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SHAMANISM

DIRECTORY

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 26

SHOES The Shoe Tree • (805) 773-5571 Personalized shoe fitters featuring the most popular brands.

801 Dolliver St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 www.shoetreeinc.com Please see display ad on page 27

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 21

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 21

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 Rideshare • (805) 781-1385 Information on bicycle commuting, ridesharing, transit and telework • www.rideshare.org Please see display ad on page 35

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 40

VENUE Sage Ecological Landscapes & Nursery (805) 574-0777 Sustainable gardens & gifts • Complete landscape services • 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos sagelandscapes.net Please see display ad on page 39

WEBSITE DESIGN

Central Coast Grown • (805) 769-8344

MHI Tech Labs • (661) 513-3828

Your connection to local food & farming on the Central Coast Find out more at www.centralcoastgrown.org Please see display ad on page 43

Web Sites, Internet Media, Event Photography, and Creative Services • www.mhilabs.com Please see display ad on page 10

THRIFT STORES Goodwill Industries • (805) 544-0542 Facilitating reuse for over 100 years, with all types of second-hand merchandise • www.scgoodwill.org Please see display ad on page 15

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

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory 16

TOURS Hearst Castle • (800) 444-4445

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

WHOLE FOOD CAFÉ & MARKET Bliss Café Tues-Sat 11-9pm & Sun-Mon 11-6pm Good Karma Cuisine, Smoothie, Juice Bar & Whole Food Market 778 Higuera Street, SLO (in the back of the Network) www.blisscafeslo.com Please see display ad on page 12

WINDOW CLEANING Enviroclean • (805) 710-4101 Office Cleaning • Window Cleaning • Outside Maintenancem Environmentally safe & LEED approved products Fax: 805-619-7189 • envirocleanplus@aol.com www.envirocleanplus.com Please see display ad on page 21

ten ways to a greener

New Year! in landfills. 7) Compost: Practice sustainable living by turning food scraps and other organic waste into rich compost for your yard.

8) Turn Off Appliances: You may already turn off the lights when you leave a room, but do you unplug your phone charger when the battery is full or unplug the washer when the load is done? Plugged-in appliances use phantom energy, emitting carbon dioxide into the air. 9) Buy Local and Organic: Organic produce does not contain environmentallydangerous pesticides and is grown using sustainable practices. Buy it from your local farmers market to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions caused by transporting food from across the country or around the world. 10) Maintain Your Home: Fix leaky faucets, replace your hot water heater with a pump or tankless heater, seal leaks in the windows and regulate the temperature with a programmable thermostat.

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

FEATURES

1) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: You probably already know that paper, plastic, aluminum and glass can all be recycled, but you can also recycle things like computers, cell phones, glasses and nearly everything else you own.

2) Clean with Cloth: Paper towels can take up to 500 years to biodegrade in a landfill.

Re-purpose old T-shirts and scrap fabrics into cleaning cloths instead of tossing paper towels away each time you clean.

3) Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions: Clean your house the eco-friendly way using homemade solutions made with white vinegar, borax, lemon and other natural ingredients.

4) Air Dry Clothes: Instead of running the dryer, hang your clothes outside (when possible) to save energy. 5) Green Transport: Reduce your carbon footprint by using public transit, walking or biking instead of driving.

6) Reusable Cups: The next time you get your coffee, bring a reusable mug to save trees and prevent more trash from ending up

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having a

Holiday FEATURES

Party?

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Surprise your guests with an eco-conscious celebration that will not leave additional waste for the planet: 1) Use cloth napkins instead of paper.

2) Save party hats and favors for next year.

3) If you have a tree, decorate it with edible and compostable ornaments.

Things like popcorn or cranberry garlands. Hardened gingerbread cookies are great too. 4) Use edible and compostable centerpieces for the table as well as home decor. 5) Use only reusable glass

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

and tableware ware as well as compostable products made of corn, potato or other eco-friendly substances. 6) Compost all food scraps and send leftovers home with guests to enjoy in sustainable or reusable containers. 7) Serve local, organic wine. That’s easy on the Central Coast! Recycle the glass and compost cork stopper. 8) Give consumables, live green plants, tickets to events, or donations to a cause as gifts. 9) Use e-invitations or plantable invitations with seeds.

Red and White!

You're at a dinner party, and an enthusiastic hand gesture knocks your glass of red wine over right onto the host's new white carpet.

What to do? Grab the nearest glass of white wine. Pour onto the red wine stain. Flood the stain and then blot it up immediately with a towel.

Quick Facts:

For popcorn, skip the packaged microwave kind.

Try organic corn, purchased in bulk, and popped on the stove with a little organic olive oil and sea salt.

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

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Soup FEATURES

to nuts! by Katy Budge

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Even avid carnivores can sink their teeth into vegan soups, especially those included in the wonderfully designed Central Coast Farmers Market Soups cookbook published

by Stephanie Burchiel and photographer Sam Peck. In addition to the seasonal soup recipes, the book also pays homage to the beauty and bounty of our area.

“To make a vegan soup taste good it’s all about building flavors,” explained Burchiel.

“I like to start off with a ridiculous amount of caramelized onions, then typically add a stock that contains shiitake mushrooms, garlic, celery, fennel and fresh herbs. If flavor is still needed after all that, I'll blend some roasted garlic into the stock as well.”

Formerly the owner of Shine Café in Morro Bay, Burchiel found she missed the simple act of feeding people. A chance comment to her boyfriend about making a big pot of soup to sell at markets became a reality, and in 2008, Burchiel began ladling out soups at the Baywood and Cambria farmers’ markets; in 2010, she added (Thursdays) Morro Bay. As the cookbook title suggests, about 85 percent of the ingredients are sourced from other market vendors.

Dairy is a no-no in vegan cuisine, so nut milks are often used instead. Burchiel noted that “cashews are my favorite to use … they are so creamy and blend really well with no need for straining. They are also very neutral in flavor and can be added to any soup that would otherwise call for heavy cream.”

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

www.farmersmarketpublishing.com

Lemon Honey...

great for a sore throat!

Quick Facts:

You can save 6 to 10 percent off your heating costs by lowering the temperature on your hot water heater from 140 degrees to 120 degrees.

Put lemon slices in honey and let it sit for a couple hours to a few days. Great in tea or for soothing a sore throat and for colds. You can even add ginger or garlic if you like for a little stronger blend.

Commercial/Residential Cleaning Commercial Janitorial Cleaning Commercial/Residential Cleaning

Enviroclean

Specializing in office&cleaning, window cleaning, Window Cleaning Maintenance Window Cleaning & Outside Outside & outside maintenance for Maintenance 10 years.

(805) 710-4101 619-7189 Environmentally safe• LEED(805) approved products.

(805) 710-4101 •&FAX FAX (805) 619-7189 Phone envirocleanplus@aol.com (805) 710-4101 • Fax (805) 619-7189 envirocleanplus@aol.com envirocleanplus@aol.com www.envirocleanplus.com www.envirocleanplus.com www.envirocleanplus.com

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

21

the power of

FEATURES

Water!

Don't underestimate the power of a simple glass of water. Soaking up 91 ounces (women) or 125 ounces (men) a day helps keep skin smooth and memory sharp, protects the joints and can even help you shed those couple extra pounds.

The body can't perform a number of key processes without H20. Water helps the body digest food, absorb nutrients from food and then get rid of the unused waste, according to experts from the Penn Institute on Aging. They also point out you don't only have to drink it. There is plenty of water in high-water-content foods like watermelon and cucumbers and other liquids too. And did we mention it's the only food or drink with absolutely zero calories?

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, showed that overweight and obese people who swapped out their caloric drinks for calorie-free options including water, were able to lose four to five pounds over a six-month period. The research will be published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Harvard University researchers found that people who swapped out sugar-sweetened drinks for water led to weight loss and a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes. That research was presented at the Sustaining the Blue Planet: Global Water Education Conference. Are you thirsty yet?

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take a

Walk!

Walking through nature decreases brain fatigue. When volunteers walked through urbanized areas with heavy traffic, their brain wave patterns consistently showed that they were more aroused, attentive and frustrated than when they walked through the parkland, where brain-wave readings became more meditative. This study encourages taking a break from work, and going for a walk in a green space or just sitting, or even viewing green spaces from your office window.

Virginia Perry Souza, CIMA®, CWS Senior Vice President

2005 S. Broadway Santa Maria, CA 93454 direct 805 347 4544 fax 805 925 1315 toll free 800 659 4311 CA Insurance Lic. #0683408 virginia.souza @ms.com

Carmen Green Broker

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

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.481.7700

Kathryn A. Perry, DO Traditional Osteopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches.

777 Pismo Street, Suite B 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.

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

23

Herbal Help

for seasonal sickness!

FEATURES

by Ruth Madocks

As we move into the winter season, there are a lot of preventative measures to take to avoid illness. Herbal remedies and other health care options can do a lot to help us from becoming sick. Immune tonic and adaptogen herbs support the immune system on a deeper level to help the body respond to stress and seasonal changes that come with winter. Examples of such herbs are astragalus, reishi mushroom, eleuthero root (Siberian ginseng), ashwaganda, and schizandra berries. These herbs are best taken in tinctures (liquid extracts) since they are roots which are hard to absorb in supplements and teas. Also, burning essential oils, which have anti-viral properties in a diffuser can prevent illness. These oils are excellent for the respiratory system: peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, thyme, rosemary, and pine.

Herbal treatments for colds are most successful when symptoms are caught at the onset. It’s good to have an herbal medicine chest on hand to combat these symptoms early. Here are some suggestions: Echinacea tincture or a Echinacea tincture blend, Vitamin C, zinc lozenges, elderberry syrup, eucalyptus oil (for steam), ginger and other teas for the respiratory system. Use licorice and marshmallow root for a sore throat.

If your cold is already entrenched, herbs can still help to relieve the symptoms and speed your recovery. Expectorant herbs like coltsfoot and mullein can loosen mucus that is stuck in the lungs and decongestant herbs and essential oils can help clear the head. So next time you feel that tickle in your throat, reach for your arsenal of herbal remedies to nip that cold in the bud this winter season.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Pharmacy and Center for Regenerative Medicine 805.542.0864 181 Tank Farm Road, Suite 120 kohanarx.com San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

"Your Leading Central Coast Compounding Pharmacy"

Specializing In: - Custom Compounding Services - Intravenous Wellness Therapies - Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Men and Women) - Environmental Medicine (Including Therapeutic Detoxification) - Pharmaceutical Grade Supplements - Topical Pain Cream Formulations - Infrared Sauna Therapy

choose

Hormone-Free

FEATURES

milk

Look for milk that has been certified organic or carries the words ‘no artificial hormones.’

Conventional dairies inject cows with synthetic recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH), aka bovine somatotropin (rbST), to boost production. The practice has been implicated in udder infections, requiring more veterinary antibiotic use, and is banned in many countries. Some scientists worry the hormones may affect consumers.

Nicole Bush, M.A. ear coning specialist

(805) 234-2994 Ear candling is a natural alternative for cleaning the ears. The treatment is safe, simple and beneficial for adults and children.

Gift Cert. Avail.

Shamanism • Holistic Nutritionist Energy Medicine • Medical Intuitive tel: (805) 478-1223 www.thehealingworks.org

of ear candling are:

Allergy Relief Improved Hearing Mental Clarity Sinus Relief and Balancing Vertigo and Tinnitus earconingbynicole@gmail.com 26

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Your Source For Floors Carpet • Hardwood • Laminate • Tile Stone • Glass • Vinyl and more!

3510 South Broad St. San Luis Obispo 93401 www.prosourcefloors.com •(805) 781-2657

THE SHOE TREE 801 Dolliver Street Pismo Beach • 773-5571 Personalized shoe fitters will assist you. Most popular brands for women and men FREE PARKING

Paul’s

DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY

214 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo • 805-543-2250 State of the Art Dry Cleaning, full laundry, friendly staff paulsdrycleaner.com FREE PARKING

5th generation family owned and operated.

Serving San Luis Obispo County since 1952

IMPROVE YOUR MOODS

GIFTS

Get a Custom Color Prescription PLUS Phone Consult & Color Oil just $45 Have the Life you Want Now! Call 805-305-0046

FEATURES

Give a Healing Holiday Gift ColorAromas.com

Ruth Madocks

805.481.9205

www.RuthsHerbalRemedies.com ruth@ruthsherbalremedies.com 850 W. Grand Ave. Grover Beach CA (805) 489-4747

ART-GIFTS-TOYS Mention this ad for a special treat, or spend $50.00 get $5.00 off.

Through fall and winter months.

Reiki

coming soon!

Succulents house plants & unique home accessories www. ronsingroverbeach.com a Village of Shops

OPEN: MON–SAT 898 MAIN ST, STE C @ HARBOR, MORRO BAY

Two Susans’

A N T I Q U E S Open Daily at 10am

(805) 239-1001 Mon-Sat 10-6 • Sun 10-4

1344 Pine St. in Paso Robles 28

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Antiques, Home decor & all things inspiring www.TheCottageonPine.com

1320 A Pine St. 1320 B Pine St. in Paso Robles

why not recycle

Gift Wrap?

If every family reused just 2 feet of gift ribbon, the 38,000 miles of ribbon saved could tie a bow around the entire planet! Not all gifts need wrapping. By giving gifts that can be experienced, like tickets to a concert or a sports event, a homemade dinner or an idea that is creative and all yours! Here are some other excellent options: 1) Buy wrapping paper made specifically from recycled content. 2) Pick up inexpensive rolls of leftover wrapping paper from Goodwill or the Salvation Army.

3) Save used wrapping paper from the holidays and reuse it all year round. 4) Make your own gift wrap from butcher paper, reused brown paper bags, newspaper and the daily comics. 5) Make reusable gift sacks from cloth material you have lying around or buy reusable grocery bags to pack gifts in.

Arroyo Grande Community Hospital French Hospital Medical Center Marian Regional Medical Center

Humankindness is at the heart of everything we do.

Hellohumankindness.org

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

29

Green with

FEATURES

Gratitude!

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The Central Coast is known for its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere. It’s also known for organizations that provide essential services to the community.

At the Solstice Green Directory, a big part of its mission is to support these groups and give back to the community. Beginning in 2009, the directory began hosting green mixers at member’s businesses. A local non-profit is selected to receive the donations from the mixer. The directory also donates in-kind services to local non-profit organizations.

Working with its members and the community, the Solstice Beneficiary Program has donated over $8,500 to a variety of organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Transitions Mental Health, Woods Humane Society, Pacific Wildlife Care, AIDS Support Network, The Natural History Museum in Santa Maria and the Noor Foundation.

The Holiday Mixer will be held on Wednesday, December 4th, 5:30 to 7:30 at Bliss Café in downtown San Luis Obispo. The donations from this mixer will benefit the San Luis Obispo County Food Bank.

Solstice Team Members: Claire Kulda, Diane Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski and Jan Harris Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Photo by Jenny Malott

spending time in

Nature makes you Smarter?

Spending days in nature, away from electronic devices, is linked with 50 percent higher scores on a test for creativity. The findings provide a rationale for trying to understand what is a healthy way to interact in the world. Burying yourself in front of a computer 24-7 may have costs that can be remediated by taking a hike in nature. The research was done at the University of Utah.

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health.

(805) 929-6814

www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Nature’s Remedy provides safe habitats for barn owls in Central California, as well as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective means of rodent control.

We supply, install and maintain barn owl nesting boxes and raptor perches in order to alleviate the use of rodenticides and poisons. One barn owl can eat up to 1,000 rodents a year.

NATURE’S REMEDY E N V I R O N M E N TA L LY SAFE RODENT CONTROL 365 NIGHTS A YEAR

Help preserve our Central Coast barn owls and other wildlife! For more information, please contact Glenn Prichard: 805-712-8609 naturesremedy42@gmail.com • www.naturesremedy.co 31

Got Ants?

get rid of them naturally!

FEATURES

by Angela Robinson-Platz

Most of us despise ants in our homes. But how does one get rid of them without using toxic poisons? Try these tried and true alternatives: Plug Their Holes: It may be hard to find the holes, but when you do, it is very effective. A good substance to use for this is Quake Hold.

Hydrogen Peroxide: Fill an empty spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide and spray all necessary areas. Wipe up the ants with a paper towel and throw them in the trash outside.

Vinegar or Baking Soda: Fill an empty spray bottle with white vinegar and spray your counter tops, dishwasher, garbage can or sink (wherever they are attracted) with vinegar and wipe it clean. Or, sprinkle baking soda all over and wipe down the affected areas with a moist sponge. This works really well if you do it each night before you go to bed. This single step alone will cut down on the dreaded morning infestations.

Repeat these steps until they go away. Be patient, they will go away on their own.

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(805) 927-1700 Intuitive Readings • Energy Healing Spiritual Counseling • Acupuncture Massage • Metaphysical Products Astrology • Events & Classes

704 Main Street Cambria, CA 93428

www.AmethystHealingCenter.com

save

Water!

Turn off the tap while you're brushing your teeth. You'll save up to 8 gallons of water a day or 2,880 gallons a year. If everyone in the U.S. did this, we'd save 875 billion gallons of water a year. That's a lot!

R. Barkley & Associates

181 Tank Farm Rd. Suite 140 mattclarktile.com 805.543.7600

Business Back Office Accounting & Taxes IRS & Government Representation Financial Services Home Mortgages

Robert C. Barkley Certified Public Accountant

Bring More Green into Your Life Ph: 800.211.5677 / 805.929.0070 eM: rbarkley@rbarkley.com www.rbarkley.com P.O. Box 1590, Nipomo, CA 93444-1590

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

33

vegetarian

Eggplant Stew

FEATURES

(ratatouille)

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Recipe: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed / 1½ cups small diced yellow onion / 3 teaspoons minced garlic / 2 cups medium diced eggplant (skin on) / ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves / 1½ cup diced red bell peppers / 1 cup diced zucchini squash / 1 cup diced yellow squash / 1½ cups chopped plum tomatoes / 4 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil leaves / 1 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes / sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add olive oil to large saute pan and turn to medium heat. Once hot, add the onions and garlic.

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are wilted and lightly caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the eggplant and thyme to the pan and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is partially cooked, about 5 minutes. Add red peppers, zucchini, and squash and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes basil, salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 10 more minutes. Stir well to blend and serve either hot or at room temperature.

family green

Quick Facts:

Eating!

You can eliminate dish washer solvents, electricity used to run the dish washer, and gallons of water for the cycle. Instead, each person per household uses one plate, one cup, one bowl, and one set of utensils. Hand wash them after each meal and dry with a cloth towel. This develops self-responsibility and simplicity.

Each year Americans throw away 25 trillion Styrofoam cups. This is enough to circle the earth 436 times.

Keep Styrofoam out of our environment by carrying a travel mug for hot beverages.

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

35

FEATURES 36

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

7 easy ways to live a and

Longer Happier Life!

1) Eat Healthy: How well you eat every day carries great weight on how long and happy you live. Consume more fresh green vegetables, lots of water, legumes, seeds, nuts and fruits. Fish and white lean meats are a much better alternative to fatty red meats.

Easy on sugar, caffeine. Smaller portion are better. 2) Stay Active: Daily activity like walking, light exercise and yard work more so than intense gym routines or fitness fads are beneficial. Stay active and your body will thank you. 3) Manage Stress: Some popular and proven stress busters: meditation, yoga, writing in a journal and even drawing or painting. Adopting a pet if you don't have one already. Find one (or a few) which resonate with you most and fall back on them for stress relief. 4) Stay Social: Finding or exploring an old or new hobby is a great way to expand

your social circle as well as getting involved in local community activities that might interest you. Isolation leads to depression which for sure is something we all need to avoid. Get out and socialize. 5) Recharge Your Spirit: Pull yourself away from the television and other mind killers, and take that time to tend to your own spiritual development or that of those close to you. This positive energy will help supercharge your spirit and carry over into all areas of your long and happy life. 6) Get Enough Sleep: The bare minimum of sleep you should be getting a night is eight hours.

Less than that and your body is definitely suffering for it. Simple changes like keeping your bedroom cool and dark and turning off the television when it’s time to call it a night may do the trick. 7) Avoid the Worst: Topping the list are the real killers, smoking and drinking alcohol to excess. With these removed from the equation, we can possibly add decades to our lives.

FEATURES

If you take the time to look at the stories of people who have lived to reach a happy one hundred years old, they all have shared some similar qualities. Here are the top seven:

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some tips to keep

Healthy this season!

FEATURES

We are fortunate here on the Central Coast because winter weather is usually moderate. However, here are some seasonal tips to help keep you healthy...

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1) Warm up with herbs and spices. Add powdered ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg to morning grains and dairy. Add rosemary, oregano and pepper to pasta and casserole dishes. 2) If you are feeling chilled, keep warm by wearing a silk undergarment or a thick cotton undershirt. 3) Warm yourself up on a chilly morning with a cup of ginger tea. Grate two tablespoons of fresh ginger root into one and a half cups of water. Bring it to a boil and let steep for one half hour.

Strain out the ginger and enjoy.

4) If you feel a cold coming on, stay home. Taking a sick day at the beginning of a cold keeps you from having to take four sick days later. Also, stay home from work or school if you

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

are contagious! You have no idea who might be susceptible to your cold, if it is an elderly person or a baby, you could have a serious impact on them. 5) Winter is the easiest time to get dehydrated. In the summer, when it is hot, you feel like drinking water. When mucus membranes are dehydrated it is easier to catch a cold. One thing you can do to make drinking water more pleasant in the winter time is to warm it up. Remember to carry a thermos with warm water and a little honey to sip on throughout the day.

6) Think of eating foods that are warmer, like soups and cooked vegetables. Winter is not a time for cold foods like watermelon and cucumber. Also, your drinks should be warm.

Carrot Ginger soup

Recipe: 2 onions / 5 stalks of celery / handful of chopped ginger root / 5 lbs roasted carrots / 8 cups vegetable stock /ginger powder /nutmeg /sea salt and pepper. Chop carrots in half and then again into quarters. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. Roast at 350°F until carrots are brown and tender. While carrots are roasting, dice onions (medium) and celery in 1-inch pieces. Add with ginger root in a soup pot and cook until onions are opaque. Once carrots are done add them to onion mixture. Add vegetable stock or water (enough to cover everything) and bring to a boil. Add ginger powder and nutmeg for taste and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serves 6 to 8.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

805.541.2228

Toys for your Tots!

By being mindful about the toys you choose, you'll save money, keep toxins out of the playroom, and help workers around the world. Here are 4 tips: 1) Look for simple toys: Give gifts that stimulate a child’s imagination. Consider items like clay, paints, or other art supplies. Or, give kids materials for building their own toys, such as supplies for assembling a kite or sewing a cloth doll. 2) Buy Local: Visit local arts and

crafts fairs to buy all-natural, toxin-free toys (like musical instruments, wooden boats and cars, or handmade dollhouses) directly from local artisans. 3) Buy sweatshop-free: Find companies that sell toys not made in sweatshops overseas. 4) Non-material gifts: Offer your time to take a child on an outing, or use your money to pay someone local to share his or her skills with a child. Music or art lessons will have a much more lasting impact than another packaged toy.

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bring kids to the

FEATURES

Farmers Market!

1. Develop healthy emotional eating habits: Simply swap out the fast food and replace it with a fun day at the Farmers Market! Kids will start to equate healthy real food with those happy family days at the market.

2. Connect kids with "real food:" There is a huge disconnect between most Americans and their food. Farmers Market provides a great opportunity to further the food connection discussion.

3. Talk with real farmers: With a little coaching your kids can ask some great questions: Why are you a farmer? What are your favorite things to grow? Do you use chemicals or pesticides?

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

4. Let them buy their own food: If we really want to teach our kids about the value of real food, they should know how to shop for it. Give them a few bucks to buy some of their own. For young kids, you can let them give the money to a farmer.

Quick Facts:

Farmers who apply little or no chemicals to crops are usually as productive as those who use pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.

5. Cook the food you bring home: Cooking the food you just bought, or the food they just bought, makes this more appealing.

6. Introduce new foods: Some kids are picky eaters. If they meet the farmer, they may be inspired to help cook and taste it!

7. Learn about nutrition: For older kids, the Farmers Market provides an opportunity to learn about nutrition. If your kids compete in sports, tell them why nutrients will make them better athletes.

8. Get away from the screens: TV screens, computer screens, iPad screens, phone screens. Food has a huge impact on childhood obesity but at the same time most kids are not active enough daily.

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9. Family bonding: With little kids you can play fun games like finding food that's different colors or shapes. With older kids, try a scavenger hunt and offer a family prize.

10. Teach the importance of community: Farmers Markets serve not only as a way for people to purchase local food but also as a chance for them to connect with others within their communities. When you shop at a large grocery store chain, a fraction of your dollars stay local. Farmers Markets keep the money in your community where it can be reinvested for the good of the town.

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ten best

House FEATURES

for removing indoor toxins!

Though the options for purifying your indoor air are numerous, one of the greenest ways to rid your home or office of indoor air pollutants is by placing various houseplants every 100 square feet. Be sure to keep some of these living greens around to limit the benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene you're breathing in every day.

1) Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron scandens): One of the most common houseplants, and it also is the best at filtering common indoor air toxins. Also known as parlor ivy, or the sweetheart vine. It is very tolerant of a range of conditions, making it the perfect houseplant for beginners. 2) Elephant Ear Philodendron (Philodendron domesticum): Also known as spade leaf philodendron. It is best known for its narrow, arrow-shaped leaves that can be anywhere from 18 to 24 inches long.

3) Massangeana (Dracaena fragrans): Also known as the corn plant, or variegated dragon fly. This member of the Agavaceae family grows slowly and is characterized by central yellow stripes on each broad leaf. It also bears inconspicuous fruit and flowers periodically throughout the year.

4) English Ivy (Hedera helix): Also known as Canary Island ivy, is best known for its dark veined, distinctive leaves.

Though it does not flower,

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Plants the climbing vines of the Hedera helix can be trained to form topiaries or allowed to cascade over pots. 5) Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Native to South Africa, spider plants are very easy to propogate and are probably best known for smaller plantlets ("spider babies") that hang from the larger rosette. Spider plants sprout long, grass-like leaves, and flower small, white buds.

6) Janet Craig Dracaena (Dracaena deremensis): An easy to maintain, slow grower of houseplants.

Known for large, glossy leaves that originate from a central stem, this houseplant can grow very tall, and works well as a floor plant.

7) Warneck Dracaena or 'Warneckii' (Dracaena deremensis): A native of tropical Africa, the Warneckii is a tree-like houseplant that can grow up to a height of 12 feet. it is best described as a floor plant, with broad, green (or green and white striped) leaves that form a tropical cluster atop a long, thin stem.

8) Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina): The fig, or ficus, tree is a very popular floor tree that rids indoor air of natural toxins. Though this tree can grow up to 50 feet wide and 100 feet tall, it is very well suited for inside the home for many years. 9) Golden Pothos (Epipiremnum aureum): Also known as Devil's ivy, a low-growing vine plant that is very easy to grow. With gold-marbled leaves, this native to the Solomon Islands has four varieties that are all cared for in the same way. 10) Peace Lily or Mauna Loa (Spathiphyllum floribundum): Best distinguished by its white, oval-shaped bloom that surrounds a white spadix. Dark green leaves can grow to more than 12 inches long, and overall height of this fragrant plant can anywhere range from one to four feet tall.

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The Perfect Blend

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Cranberries

a seasonal treat! but also inhibit cholesterol oxidation, the process that encourages the formation of fatty plaque that clogs arteries. Another reason to enjoy cranberry sauce: Its malic acid flushes energy sapping toxins out of the body. Select fresh cranberries that are plump, shiny and intensely colored. Before using, discard any berries that are shriveled, soft or brown.

Cranberries will keep for up to two months in the refrigerator if they're tightly covered or in their original packaging. Frozen berries can last up to a year.

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FEATURES

Whole cranberries are prized for their medicinal value. Research at Winona State University in Minnesota suggests that cranberry sauce is just as healing. In fact, it can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol by 14 percent and boost HDL (good) cholesterol by 10 percent. This combined benefit can cut the overall heart disease risk by about 40 percent according to studies done at Canada's Laval University. Thanks to the fruit's polyphenols, these delicious antioxidant compounds not only speed up the liver's breakdown of artery clogging triglycerides

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FEATURES 48

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

time for...

Winter Squash!

Winter squash is a highly nutritious and alkaline food which is rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants.

Varieties of winter squash include butternut, acorn, delicata, kabocha, kuri, buttercup, spaghetti, hubbard, golden nugget, and sweet dumpling. Winter squash is easy to digest and is an excellent remedy for acidosis and conditions of the stomach, spleen, liver, and blood. It is wonderfully high in Vitamins A, E, C, B-complex, beta carotene, iron, zinc, copper, calcium, and potassium. These are vital for a healthy and strong immune and nervous system.

The carotenoids are especially beneficial for protection against heart disease, breast cancer, and macular degeneration. Winter squash is also known to help reduce inflammation which is excellent for conditions such as asthma, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. It is a low in calorie, fat-free food, yet it is rich in nutrients making it an ideal choice for any weight loss or nutritional program.

Winter squash can be eaten savory with spices such as black pepper, curry powder, or chili pepper, or it can be sweetened with a touch of maple syrup or honey with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg for a delicious treat. Winter Squash can be steamed, baked, roasted, mashed like potatoes, or blended into a soup. The seeds of winter squash are also edible and can be dried or roasted similarly to pumpkin seeds and are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, such as tryptophan which helps to promote a healthy night’s sleep.

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the ABC's of

Eco-Land!

by The “Green” Franciscan Sister, Janet Corcoran, OSF

St. Francis had a reverence for all creation. Everyone and everything was brother or sister to him. These alphabetically noted thoughts may enhance our eco-living.

A. All is connected. No one thing can change by itself. ~Paul Hawken B. Be the change you wish to see in the world. ~Mahatma Gandhi C. Climb up on some hill at sunrise.

Everybody needs perspective once in a while and you’ll find it there. ~Robb Sagendorph D. Do plant allergy-free trees. ~Anonymous E. Every day is Earth Day. ~Anonymous F. Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet, and the winds long to play with your hair. ~Khalil Gibran G. G oal of life is living in harmony with nature. ~Zeno H. H eal the earth and we heal ourselves. ~Anonymous I. I think that I shall never see, a poem as lovely as a tree. ~Joyce Kilmer J. Join organizations that promote green living. ~Anonymous K. K ermit the Frog reminds us, “It ain’t easy being green.” ~Anonymous L. L ive simply that others may simply live. ~Mahatma Gandhi M. Mankind has not woven the web of life.

We are but the thread within it. Whatever 50

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2013/2014

we do to the web, we do to ourselves.

All things are bound together, all things connect. ~Anonymous N. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has. ~Margaret Mead O. One thing you cannot recycle is wasted time. ~Anonymous P. Pollution should never be the price of prosperity. ~Al Gore Q. Question practices not seeking to ensure “greener” outcomes. ~Anonymous R. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and conserve the goods of Mother Earth. ~Anonymous S. Service is the rent you pay for your room on earth. ~Mohammed Ali T. The earth is what we all have in common. ~Wendell Berry U. Use the 86,400 seconds or the 1,440 minutes of each day being and living environmentally friendly. ~Sister Janet Corcoran, O.S.F. V. Value of an idea lies in the using of it. ~Thomas Alva Edison W. We are not passengers on Spaceship Earth; we are all crew. ~Marshall McLuhan X. Extra effort must be given to purchase environmentally friendly items. ~Anonymous Y. You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give. ~Kilil Gibran Z. Zebras and all of creation are brothers and sisters. ~Anonymous

low fat, low sugar

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!

Recipe: ½ cup brown sugar / 2 egg whites / ⅔ cup applesauce (unsweetened) / 1 teaspoon vanilla / 1½ cups whole wheat flour / 1 teaspoon baking soda / ½ teaspoon sea salt (optional) / 1½ teaspoons cinnamon / ¼ teaspoon nutmeg / 1½ cups old fashion oatmeal / ⅔ cup raisins / ½ cup walnuts (optional). Mix ingredients, brown sugar thru vanilla together. Add flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Stir in oatmeal, raisins and walnuts. Drop on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper (flatten with fork). Bake in 350˚ oven for about 10 minutes.

Quick Facts:

Nearly half the water consumed in the U.S. goes to grow feed for cattle and other livestock. To produce one pound of grain-fed steak requires hundreds of gallons of water.

Carol Dawn RN, CMT.

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

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keeping

Children in touch with Nature After-school time used to involve catching fireflies, exploring the neighborhood woods, making mudpies, and just having a good time running around outside. This has changed dramatically in the digital age and children are less connected to nature which can cause them to care less about its condition. Instead of plopping down in front of the TV or computer after school, encourage your kids to go outside for an hour or two each day. Not much daylight left after the homework’s done? Take a family walk after dinner, devote your weekends to outdoor-only activities like biking and hiking, or start a nature club for your family. Studies have shown children who spend more time outside are less likely to be obese, have Attention Deficit Disorder, or be depressed.

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