Solstice winter 2015-16

Free

Winter 2015 - 2016

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

Hug a Tree...page 29 Replace Your Grass and Get Cash...page 38 Lose Weight with Fruits and Veggies...page 47

The Central Coast Guide to Green and Healthy Living!

People don't notice

whether it's winter or summer

when they're happy. ~ Anton Chekhov

Extraordinary Times?

yes they are...

We are living in extraordinary times. Information is coming at us faster than we can process it, and much of it is unfortunately negative: a damaged planet; unhealthy and unwholesome foods; a medical system more attuned to symptoms and prescriptions than to cause and healing; and many families are still struggling in our economy. Before every breakthrough, there needs to be a breakdown. We are moving into a time of needed global interconnectedness. Environmental responsibility, alternative medicine, organic farms and food, socially responsible businesses and fair trade products are more in demand every day. There is strength in our growing numbers, and economies of scale are beginning to happen. Think twice before heading to the cash register. Those vegetables may have been grown with toxic chemicals. That new shirt may have been sewn in a sweatshop. The household cleaner you are using may increase your risk of cancer.

What if that chocolate you love supports child labor? Living green is not just a trendy phrase. It requires action. We can make a difference. The choice is ours. Yours and mine.

Photo by Jenny Malott

Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

Gary Elem, Claire Kulda, Diane Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski, Monte Allen, John Karp

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 2015 – 2016

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing and Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Distribution Monte Allen

Graphic Designer John Karp

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski and Alicia Belmonte

Tech Support and Graphic Design

Jenny Malott and Chris Maloney

Bookkeeping Diane Parnell

Reuse and Recycle Special Contributor Monte Allen

Special Events M.C. Gary Elem

Solstice Publishing, LLC

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

This publication is printed on recycled paper with soy ink.

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

Contents The Solstice Green Directory Winter 2015 – 2016

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Sage... An Oldie but Goodie

13

Can Owning a Pet Improve Your Health?

14

Pomegranates: Packed With Potassium

16

Eating Meat... Some Interesting Facts

18

Easy Ways to Keep Healthy this Season

20

Renewables... Here to Stay

22

Laser Therapy for Pain?

24

Hike with a Purpose

26

Hug a Tree

29

Bad Mood? Feel Better Fast

30

Keeping Your Family Safe

32

Out of Your Gourd?

34

What Do You Mean Green?

36

Replace Your Grass and Get Cash

38

Mom Said... Eat Wisely

40

Cinnamon: Medicinal Properties?

43

Magnesium: The Relaxation Mineral

44

Lose Weight with Fruits and Veggies

47

It's Time to Declutter

48

Are You Kind?

52

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

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

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

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

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

O & A Wellness Group (800) 679-8419

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

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

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

ANTI-AGING THERAPIES 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 21

AROMATHERAPY Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 15

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers

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

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products

Please see display ad on page 41

ATTRACTIONS Hearst Castle • (800) 444-4445

Please see display ad on page 39

DIRECTORY

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

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

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

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

BUSINESS TRADING Cal Coast Trade Call Gregg • (805) 975-5334

Please see display ad on inside front cover

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

GET TESTED. GET TREATED. GET CURED. Quick, easy and FREE, Hep C testing is now available throughout SLO County www.asn.org www.slohepc.org Please see display ad on page 45

A sustainable way to do business!

Save your cash and increase your business! www.calcoasttrade.com Please see display ad on page 10

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

BARTER BUSINESS GROUP Cal Coast Trade Call Gregg • (805) 975-5334

Please see display ad on page 46

A sustainable way to do business!

Save your cash and increase your business! www.calcoasttrade.com Please see display ad on page 10

CAFÉ SunShine Health Foods/Shine Café Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873

BOTANICALS Kandarian Organic Farms

Please see display ad on page 45

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

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

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

805.473.5064

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

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

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

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DIRECTORY

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

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

Please see display ad on page 41

Please see display ad on page 8

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

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

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

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

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

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

More Than a Tech. More Than a Tutor.

On-Site Help for Your Computer!

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

A not-for-profit, depositor owned, financial institution serving all who live, work, worship or attend school in San Luis Obispo County.

3807 Broad St., 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 19

COLON HYDRO-THERAPY Cathy Bernal, CHT • (805) 863- 2340 Safe and effective hydrating of the colon The Therapeutic Body Center 129 N. Halcyon Rd. Ste. B Arroyo Grande, CA www.The Therapeutic Body Center.com CathyTTBC@yahoo.com Please see display ad on page 39

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

GET TESTED. GET TREATED. GET CURED. Quick, easy and FREE, Hep C testing is now available throughout SLO County www.asn.org www.slohepc.org Please see display ad on page 45

DENTAL Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 35

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

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

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

FLOORING MATERIALS & INSTALLATION ProSource Flooring • (805) 781-2657

Please see display ad on page 28

Please see display ad on page 19

The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223

GRAINS Kandarian Organic Farms

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com

Shaman, Holistic Nutritionist, Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org

The Largest Wholesale Flooring Source in North America www.prosourcefloors.com

DIRECTORY

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

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

(805) 528-4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com

Please see display ad on page 37

Please see display ad on page 27

Debra Windsong • (805) 471-4093

Trauma release and energetic healing with Rapid Eye Technology, The Infinity Connection Reconnective Healing & Massage Therapy www.debrawindsong.com

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

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 39

It Doesn’t Cost to go Solar, it only Saves!

Contact me for a free consultation today. bharbour@solarcity.com Please see display ad on page 39

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

EVENTS Inspired Health & Fitness Expo (805) 772-4600

GREEN GARDENING Los Osos Green Gardeners

March 19 & 20, 2016 • 10 – 4pm Over 100 Health and Fitness Professionals Alex Madonna Expo Center San Luis Obispo www.inspiredexpos.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

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

805.473.5064

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

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

Follow Us On Twitter!

http://twitter.com/slosolstice

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DIRECTORY

GREEN-REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co.

Cathy Bernal, CHT • (805) 863- 2340

Please see display ad on page 51

Please see display ad on page 39

171 N. 13th St. Suite A Grover Beach 93433 O: 481-7700 F: 481-9338 P: 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com

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

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

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

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 35

Safe and effective hydrating of the colon The Therapeutic Body Center 129 N. Halcyon Rd. Ste. B Arroyo Grande, CA www.The Therapeutic Body Center.com CathyTTBC@yahoo.com

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 15

Inspired Health & Fitness Expo (805) 772-4600

March 19 & 20, 2016 • 10 – 4pm Over 100 Health and Fitness Professionals Alex Madonna Expo Center San Luis Obispo www.inspiredexpos.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

HEALTH FOOD STORES 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 45

HERBS & SPICES Kandarian Organic Farms

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

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

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

805.473.5064 8

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

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

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

DIRECTORY

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

Please see display ad on page 28

HOTELS Sycamore Mineral Springs (805) 595-7302

Local Specials – Hotel • Spa • Restaurant Gift Cards for Holidays & Special Occasions 1215 Avila Beach Drive San Luis Obispo, CA www.sycamoresprings.com Please see display ad on page 15

JUICE BAR Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay (805) 772-7873 Please see display ad on page 45

LOANS SESLOC Federal Credit Union (805) 543-1816

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine (805) 226-5190

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

INVESTMENT SERVICES Virginia Perry Souza (805) 347-4544

A not-for-profit, depositor owned, financial institution serving all who live, work, worship or attend school in San Luis Obispo County.

3807 Broad St., 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

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 37

MASSAGE Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo www.caroldawnsreflexology.com Please see display ad on page 15

Follow Us On Twitter!

http://twitter.com/slosolstice

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

Debra Windsong • (805) 471-4093

Trauma release and energetic healing with Rapid Eye Technology, The Infinity Connection Reconnective Healing & Massage Therapy www.debrawindsong.com

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

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DIRECTORY

MINERAL SPRINGS Sycamore Mineral Springs (805) 595-7302

Local Specials – Hotel • Spa • Restaurant Gift Cards for Holidays & Special Occasions 1215 Avila Beach Drive San Luis Obispo, CA www.sycamoresprings.com

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter

547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo (805) 543-8717 • santalucia.sierraclub.org Please see display ad on page 51

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

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

Please see display ad on page 15

MUSEUMS The Natural History Museum (805) 614-0806

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

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Salus Integrative Medicine (805) 226-5190

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

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

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

NUTRITION The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223 Holistic Nutritionist, Shaman, Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org Please see display ad on page 37

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 42

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 45

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

Call Gregg now (805) 975-5334 10

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

www.calcoasttrade.com

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

Please see display ad on page 19

Please see display ad on page 50

The Central Coast’s leading radio group: 98.1 KJUG, 93.3 KZOZ, Q104.5, The KRUSH 92.5 Locally owned and operated for over 30 years serving this community with pride.

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

REALTOR-GREEN C. Green Real Estate Co.

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

Neuromuscular. Neuroskeletal.

Degeneration. Acute and Chronic Injuries.

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

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 21

Please see display ad on page 51

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

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

REFLEXOLOGY Carol Dawn’s Reflexology & Massage

Please see display ad on page 15

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

SHAMANISM The Healing Works • Brenda Keeney (805) 478-1223

Please see display ad on page 19

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

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

171 N. 13th St. Suite A Grover Beach 93433 O: 481-7700 F: 481-9338 P: 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com

Aromatherapy, too • (805) 546-8660 Serving San Luis Obispo for 26 years 1171 Toro St., Suite B, San Luis Obispo www.caroldawnsreflexology.com

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

POLLENS Kandarian Organic Farms

DIRECTORY

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

Shaman, Holistic Nutritionist Medical Intuitive 405 E. Branch St. #107 Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.thehealingworks.org Please see display ad on page 37

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

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DIRECTORY

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

Sycamore Mineral Springs (805) 595-7302

Please see display ad on page 39

Please see display ad on page 15

It Doesn’t Cost to go Solar, it only Saves!

Contact me for a free consultation today. bharbour@solarcity.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 15

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

Local Specials – Hotel • Spa • Restaurant Gift Cards for Holidays & Special Occasions 1215 Avila Beach Drive San Luis Obispo, CA www.sycamoresprings.com

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

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

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 39

Reach over

30,000 Readers for only $ 109

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

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

TRANSPORTATION Regional Transit Authority (RTA) (805) 541-2228

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

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

www.slosolstice.com 12

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

Sage...

an oldie, but goodie!

Just about eveyone has heard of sage.

Ancient Egyptians used it as a fertility drug.

In the first century C.E., Greek physician Dioscorides reported using it with health benefits.The scientific name of the herb Salvia officinalis (sage) originates from the Latin word “salvere” which in English means “to be saved.” Sage is rich in antioxidants (apigenin, diosmetin, and luteolin) and important nutrients, such as vitamin K. In fact, sage has been considered somewhat of a panacea (solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases) throughout history because of its wide range of uses in cooking and medicine. It is thought that Sage is similar to Rosemary in its ability to improve brain function and memory.Taking sage may help improve memory and information processing among

people who suffer from mild Alzheimer’s disease. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics concluded that sage may help reduce agitation of patients, but this claim still requires further research. Because of its unique pleasant aroma sage is often used as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics.

Sage was one of the ingredients of Four Thieves Vinegar, a mix of herbs which was made to prevent the plague. On a culinary note, sage leaves are harvested just before flowering. Discard tough stems and fibers before using in recipes. Wash in cold water to remove soil and sand. Gently pat dry using soft cloth. Sage herb is one of the common ingredients in Greek, Italian, and Balkan cuisine. Fresh leaves can be used in stuffing’s. The herb is also used in many vegetable dishes, especially with beans. It is also used as a garnish in herb salads.

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

13

Can Owning a Pet

improve your health?

The American Heart Association released a scientific statement listing a summary of the most relevant studies regarding pet ownership and cardiovascular risk/ benefit. They concluded that a substantial body of data suggests that pet ownership is associated with a reduction in CVD (cardiovascular disease) risk factors and increased survival in individuals with established CVD. Some of the reported benefits resulting from pet ownership

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

included: lower resting heart rate, reduced risk of hypertension, increased physical activity, faster recovery of heart rate, lowered reactivity to stress, elevated parasympathetic (rest and restore) and diminished sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous system responses, and greater heart rate variability. Research is showing that in addition to bringing comfort, joy and healing into our everyday lives, pets are also capable of assisting and aiding those with serious medical conditions. As reported in WebMD, a study presented at The American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference reported that owning a cat was linked with a 40% lower risk of death after a heart attack. UCLA researchers found that AIDS patients who own pets are less likely to suffer from depression.

The emotional bond between the animal and the owner adds something more.

Pet ownership is not a substitute for human support, but it's another way to express and receive love. The conclusion suggests that the strong humanto-animal bond is indeed powerfully therapeutic.

Eco-Friendly

GIFTS

Resort-Wide Gift Cards Perfect for Holidays & Special Occasions

sycamoresprings.com

805.595.7302

Carol Dawn RN, CMT.

Nat Cert. Reflexologist Family Membership Makes a Great Gift!

26 yrs in business locally specializing in aromatherapy

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

eco-friendly

Wrapping!

This season, invest in some baker's twine, (it will last you forever) craft paper, a bit of wrapping paper, and nature. Take a walk in the woods and let Mother Nature provide you with great ideas! Wrap holiday gifts with hemp twine. Hemp is a biodegradable product. Have a package to send? Avoid the expense and waste of bubble wrap. Instead, reach for yesterday's newspaper as packing material. It might seem old fashioned, but what was good for grandma is still good for you. It's a creative and eco-friendly way to wrap too! Please remember to recycle or compost your scraps!

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

15

Pomegranates A new study published in the journal, Atherosclerosis, confirms that pomegranate extract may prevent and/or reverse the primary pathology associated with cardiac mortality: the progressive thickening of the coronary arteries caused by the accumulation of fatty materials known as arteriosclerosis. Packed with antioxidants equal to those in green tea and red wine, and especially loaded with Vitamin C and Potassium.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

Healthy Arugula, Avocado and Pomegranate Salad Recipe: 1 chopped avocado / 3 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil, divided / 6 cups arugula / 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar / ½ cup pomegranate seeds. Combine avocado, pomegranate seeds and arugula, in large bowl and toss. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, and olive oil. Pour over salad and toss again. Season with sea salt and pepper. Top with walnuts (optional).

packed with potassium!

Every year at pomegranate time we hesitate to attempt to open one and get to those tasty seeds! Why? Because it seems so hard. Right?

Well, here is an easy way to open a pomegranate and help quell your fears: 1) Slice the top and bottom from the pomegranate. They're juicy, so do this on a cutting board. 2) Slice a plus sign (+) into the pomegranate from top, going down ž of the way. Don't slice all the way through.

3) Put the pomegranate into a clean sink and pour boiling water into the sink, letting the pomegranate soak for several minutes.

Basically, you're going to blanch the pomegranate. 4) Move the pomegranate into pot filled with cold water. 5) Using your hands, break the pomegranate open, under the water. As you pull it apart, the seeds will drop to the bottom of the sink, and the white pith will float to the top. And there you go. Now enjoy those seeds!

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

17

Eating Meat... some interesting facts

by Katy Budge

Just as holiday meals were starting to be planned, carnivores issued a collective sigh of despair. In late October, 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that eating red meat – especially processed meats such as bacon and hot dogs – is linked to higher rates of colon cancer. No, pork was not spared, as it is really not “the other white meat.” For some, this news may land us firmly into the vegetarian camp once and for all. However, let’s face it – a lot of us are not going to give up meat entirely. That said, this latest news was yet another reason for everyone to eat LESS meat and BETTER meat! Just in terms of resources, raising and processing meat takes far more than vegetables. Even

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

a thirsty veggie such as corn takes about 100 gallons of water per pound to produce, while a pound of beef takes at least 2500 gallons/pound by conservative estimates.

Then consider that most corn grown in the U.S. is used for animal feed, compounding the issue. Oh, and most of that corn is GMO to boot. Beyond that, if you do even a bit of poking around the internet about factory farmed meats, you'll find out more about feedlot conditions than you care to know. Let’s leave it at that. If meat is going to be a part of your yearlong diet and your holiday meals, you owe it to yourself, your karma, and the planet to seek out sustainably and humanely raised meat from responsible producers. Yes, it does indeed cost more, but it’s worth it in so many ways, including that it actually tastes like meat!

While you're at it, buy from local ranchers and farmers and keep your dollars on the Central Coast. You'll be supporting your own community instead of distant corporations.

mashed potato Pancakes Recipe: About 2 cups mashed potatoes / 1 egg (or egg substitute) / ¼ cup flour / sea salt and black pepper to taste / ¼ cup minced onion / ½ tsp garlic powder. Mix mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, pepper, garlic, powder and onions into mashed potatoes. Preheat skillet and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure the mixture is not too thin. Pour ¼ cup batter into hot pan; brown on both sides. Enjoy with sour cream or applesauce.

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19

easy ways to

Keep Healthy this season!

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

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

you are contagious! You have no idea who might be susceptible to your cold; if it is an elderly person or a baby, your cold 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. 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 watermelons and cucumber.

use

One Less a day!

The United States uses about 13 billion pounds of paper towels every year according to Earth911.com. Want to help the environment and save a little money while doing so? Try using less paper towel. Using less paper towel may be easier said than done, especially when you have children or pets in your home but with a little effort you can change your life and eliminate some of your paper towel usage. If everyone in the United States used one less paper towel a day, 571,230,000 pounds of paper would be spared over the course of the year.

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21

Renewables Renewable energy is proving to be unstoppable, with major global investments and inventions into clean energy approaching critical mass. Here are seven signs that going green is this century’s “gold rush.”

A new Greenpeace report shows how the world can move to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050. The bad news? It needs political will. The good news? It’s already happening! Climate change deniers and investors take note. Renewable energy is here and it’s growing. From large corporations to village Eisenstein’s, the growing interest, investments and inventions into clean energy is this century’s

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

“goldrush.” Don’t believe the hype? Here are some reasons why you should: 1) 2014 was the biggest year for solar in the U.S.—an increase of 30 percent from the previous year. 2) Renewable energy in the UK took over coal for the first time during this last quarter. 3) And in his recent U.S. visit, President Xi Jinping made a landmark commitment to put a price on carbon. According to the report, if we

...Here to Stay! continue in an upwards trend we could reach 42 percent renewables by 2030, 72 percent by 2040 and 100 percent in 2050. What’s more, the renewable energy sector will produce more jobs and because of all the fuel cost savings it can all be done at no extra expense. But why wait till 2050 or for political will to kick in? The energy revolution is already happening. 4) Greenpeace India’s Dharnai village project has provided electricity to more than 2,400 people. This includes 450 households and 50 commercial

establishments, including two schools, a training center and a primary healthcare center. 5) Renewable energy farms are appearing on land and water. 6) South Africa’s biggest solar plant is powering 80,000 homes and helping to beat blackouts. 7) And activists are rejecting coal plants in Romania. It’s clear that this is a type of power that’s proving to be unstoppable. If you’re smart about it, you’ll already be jumping on that bandwagon.

we could reach 42 percent renewables by 2030

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23

Laser Therapy

for pain?

by Dr. Abiola Oladoke

The Central Coast has the most advanced laser that penetrates deep into layers of tissue to treat pain and inflammation. This clinically proven and FDA approved method of treating chronic and acute pain and inflammation works by increasing microcirculation and transporting nutrients to the cells so damaged tissues can heal themselves naturally. With continuous treatment, a cascade of healing responses occur in the body and often result in reduced and even elimination of pain and inflammation.

The treatment is soothing, relaxing and immediately beneficial with continuous therapeutic effect for hours afterwards. Over 3,000 scientific research studies continue to demonstrate the effectiveness of deep tissue laser therapy for many ailments. It is an effective treatment for acute and chronic neuromusculoskeletal pain and inflammation. Organizations such as the World Health Organization and American College of Sports Medicine endorse deep tissue laser therapy as an effective and beneficial treatment for pain and inflammation associated with neuromusculosketal conditions.

For more information, call: 1-800-679-8419 24

consciously

Choose

your

Media We are constantly being bombarded by corrupted media and negative programming.

Luckily, there is more incredible and inspiring media out there than ever before: YouTube, Podcasts, Blogs, etc. It’s now becoming easier and easier to continually surround yourself with positive energy. When each of us consciously choose positive and conscious media as our primary source of input, we literally transform the World from the inside out.

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25

Hike with a purpose!

by Sean Murphy

Many residents on the Central Coast take pride in the area’s natural beauty. Why not introduce some of this beauty to your own yard! Next time you are on your favorite trail be sure to take pictures of your favorite plants. Perhaps you could identify similar species at a local nursery that carries California natives. A native plant in your yard does not just serve as a beautiful reminder for your favorite trail, they are also very practical. If it lives in the wild, it can live in your yard. This means a well-established plant doesn’t need intricate pruning or fertilizer. You may not even need to water it in a year of adequate rainfall. Also, native plants support local wildlife. For example, planting monkey flower is a perfect invitation for hummingbirds. And if your yard is full to the brim, perhaps researching and identifying aromatic natives like California sagebrush could be a fun way to inspire a hike.

Just remember to stay on the trail. Be creative, connect with nature!

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

Black Barley and Black Bean Soup Recipe Submitted by Kandarian Organic Farms

This rich soup is smoky and savory, almost meaty.

Humble & simple, it gets a deep delicious flavor from the addition of rosemary, sage, smoked paprika, and a splash of tamari.

Recipe: 2 tbsp. olive oil / 1 shallot, finely chopped / 1 clove garlic, minced / 2 tsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped / 1 tsp. sage / ½ tsp. thyme / 1 tsp. smoked paprika / ¼ tsp. mustard powder / ¼ tsp. cayenne (or to taste) / 2 bay leaves / 1 cup black barley / 2 tsp. tomato paste / 2 tsp. tamari / 1 cup beer / 1 can black beans, drained / 1 tsp. brown sugar / 1 tsp. balsamic / 1 tbsp. butter / sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add bay leaves and shallot, saute briefly. Add sage, rosemary, and thyme. Stir until the shallot starts to brown.

Add tomato paste and tamari. Mix well.

Add barley and stir to coat. Cook for a few minutes, until it starts to smell toasty. Add the beer. Cook until the beer becomes thick and slightly syrupy, then add beans, ½ tsp. salt, sugar, cayenne, mustard, and paprika.

Stir, then add four cups water or broth.

Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer about 45 minutes until barley is soft (al dente). Barley grains will split when they’re done, revealing a bright white center. Add water as needed if the soup gets too thick.

Add balsamic and butter. Salt and pepper to taste. Garnish and serve.

805.528.4007 www.kandarianorganicfarms.com (formerly Coastal Gourmet Pollen, Etc.)

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27

Hug Someone longer today!

The average length of a hug between two people is three seconds. But researchers have discovered something fantastic: when a hug lasts 20 seconds, there is a therapeutic effect on the body and mind. The reason is that a sincere hug produces a hormone called "oxytocin," also known as the love hormone. This substance has many benefits in our physical and mental health, helps us, among other things, to relax, to feel safe and to calm our fears and anxiety. This wonderful calming is offered free of charge every time we have a person in our arms, cradle a child, a cherished dog or cat, or our dancing partner. The closer we get to someone, or just holding the shoulders of a friend can benefit both of us.

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805.528.7586 • www.miasimmons.com 28

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

EFT consists of fingertip tapping on meridian points. EFT alleviates negative emotions and experiences.

Research suggests EFT is effective because it helps to balance the activity of the parasympathetic and sympathetic regions of the brain, making it a powerful healing tool.

Hug

a Tree!

Tree-hugging isn't just for hippies or conservationists.

It really is good for you – and it’s been scientifically proven. Since 1976, the electromagnetic changes in the surface of leaves and roots have been measured by specially designed equipment. This is then translated into music by laboratories, using synthesisers. Concerts of Tree Music have been held not just in Damanhur, but also in Europe, India, Canada, and the United States. In his book Blinded

by Science (www.blindedbyscience.co.uk), Matthew Silverstone explains that it’s all to do with the tree's vibrational properties, which affect us physiologically and psychologically.

When we hug a tree, it absorbs our negative energies while we, in turn, are able to absorb the tree's beneficial qualities.

Tree-hugging has been shown to specificially benefit depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), headaches, muscle weakness, stress and poor concentration. It doesn't take effort - all you need is about 30 minutes and an open mind.

Here's how: Find some old, healthy trees. Use all of your five senses: smell the leaves, look at the foliage stretching above you, listen to the rustling of the leaves, touch the bark.

Put your arms around it, as far as they can stretch, your face against the trunk. Close your eyes and relax. The tree will do the rest. There is a source of comfort and wisdom here, gleaned from decades of absorbing universal energies. So - hug a tree today.

You have nothing to lose except a bad mood and possibly some physical and emotionial stress!

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29

Bad Mood?

feel better fast!

In a way, we create our world through our thoughts; our external reality becomes a reflection of our internal landscape. These thoughts draw to the surface of our minds more and more memories that have the same "feel" to them, and they prime us to pay more attention to the events happening around us that also match. When we start finding ourselves feeling down or pessimistic about things, or when something we've come across in the media upsets us, it's really important to head the snowball off and look for ways to shift our focus. Fortunately, there are ways of making just that kind of shift, and they don't have to be difficult or timeconsuming. Here are a few: 1) Focus on the present moment. When we feel bad, it's usually because our attention is focused in the past or on the future.

Grounding yourself in the present moment allows you to experience your life in the only moment over which you have any control: right now. 2) Have fun doing something you enjoy. Tell your inner critic to take a hike, and let yourself have a moment of pure playfulness and joy. 3) Take a walk.

Getting outside and enjoying the sunshine and some exercise, helps to settle things down and can turn your mood around. 4) Lend a hand. Not only does it feel good when something we can do helps others, it actually has an impact on both our mental and physical health, too. Studies have shown that older adults who regularly volunteer, for instance, enjoy higher levels of well-being.

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

30

Olive Oil

good for your bones A study of 127 men who ate a Mediterranean diet rich in olives and olive oils revealed a higher level of osteocalcin in their blood.

Osteocalcin is a protein found in bones, and, generally speaking, a higher level of serum osteocalcin means better bone density and overall bone health. Low bone density can lead to osteoporosis and an increased risk of falls and fractures, particularly among the elderly. Osteoporosis and bone fracture rates have always been lower in the Mediterranean basin than in other parts of Europe, and now, Spanish researchers believe they have isolated one reason why: olive oil. The findings are published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

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31

Keeping Your Family Safe

What’s your threat? Earthquakes, wildfires, floods, nuclear melt down?

It doesn’t matter what disaster you experience, unless every member of your family is at home all the time, there is a pretty good chance you’ll be separated at some point, either during or after the disaster. One or both of the parents could be at work, children at school or friends’ homes or other extra curricular activities. Or you could get separated in the confusion of the aftermath. These tips will give you a better chance of keeping your family together in an emergency.

1) Have a plan. Write the plan down so nobody is confused. A written plan clears up all the details for everyone involved and helps you remember what you decided on. Make sure every family member has one. 2) Have more than one method of communication. Cell phones work great on a normal day, but in an emergency the towers can become overloaded and your calls will not go through. Because 32

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

texting works on a slightly different part of the airwaves and uses very little of it, texts might get through when phone calls cannot. Two way radios work well, and anyone can use them. They have a limited range, usually restricted by line of sight, so if you are far from home they will likely not be your best option. Amateur or ham radio can carry signals farther than most other methods and is extremely reliable.

Range can be limited if repeaters (specific radio towers) are damaged during the disaster, and each family member that will be using the radio needs to be licensed.

3) Have a code word for emergency.

A code word or phrase can communicate a lot of information with just a word or two and set your family’s emergency plan into action. You could have a code word to text to older school age children that means they are to check themselves out of school immediately using a pre-written note signed by their parents and return home. Or a code word that notifies everyone to get to a predetermined safe area. 4) Get to know

7 Tips to Follow in an

Emergency

the emergency plans of any schools or care centers your children attend. Do they have a plan in place or any restrictions on parents picking children up during or after an emergency? 5) Keep updated family photos in each family member’s emergency kit. This does not need to be a professional photo. Everyday photos will do, since that’s probably what you’ll look like in an emergency. It is much easier to ask if someone has seen your child (or parent) if you have a photo of them. 6) Establish at least two meeting places.

One within walking distance of your home, and one within half a tank of gas. In the event your home is damaged, but others are not, where in town could be your backup meeting place?

Maybe a trusted neighbor or friend’s house, a church or public building. But what if your entire town is evacuated or deemed

unsafe, where will your family meet?

Choosing a place within half a tank of gas driving distance (up to 250 or 300 miles from your home depending on your vehicle) will get you out of harm’s way and make it so you do not need to stop for gas to get there. You are filling your gas tank before it gets below half full, aren't you? If you haven't been, this is a good reason to start!

7) Make a long term separation meeting plan. What if the affected area is very large and communications and travel are down for an extended time? For this meeting plan, pick a specific day or two of the year that your family can all remember and a place that you will meet on those days.

Example: On mom’s birthday we will meet at the park at the center of town. Following these tips can greatly increase the chance that your family can stay together or be reunited following a disaster.

You could be separated in the confusion of the aftermath.

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33

Out of Your Gourd? some winter squash tips...

1) Acorn: Loaded with fiber. Great for roasting. Peeling is difficult so cut in half first. Skin is edible. 2) Butternut: Best for roasting and soups. It has the highest doses of vitamins A and C. 3) Spaghetti: The larger the squash, the better the flavor.

Great for roasting. Scrape out strands and serve with butter or pasta sauce. 4) Delicata: Also called sweet potato squash.

No peeling necessary (you can eat the skin).

Best for roasting and stuffing. 5) Hubbard: A whole squash will keep up to 6 months.

Great for pie fillings, purees and fillings.

Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe: 2 acorn squash (cut in half and scooped clean) / 4 tbsp. maple syrup / 2 tbsp. butter (or coconut oil) / 1 cup thinly slices apples.

Place the acorn squash halves in a baking pan with the cut sides up. Put 1 tbsp. of maple syrup, ¼ cup sliced apples and ½ tbsp. butter (or coconut oil) into each acorn squash half. Cover with aluminum foil and roast in a preheated 400° oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and roast until tender, about 30-45 minutes.

Entertaining?

be kinder to the environment...

You don't have to throw away your choices to keep entertaining more sustainable. Here are several great tips to help you so you don't have to fill up the cans with garbage when you're done: 1) Use silverware and dishes that are NOT disposable. 2) Instead of purchasing ice, make your own. 3) Go with tablecloths and napkins that are made out of fabric. 4) Instead of paper invitations, go with online invites. 5) Give away extra food to your guests!

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35

what do you mean

Green?

The term green, meaning environmentally friendly, has become a buzz word, sometimes overused.

To most people, the term clearly means environmentally friendly, which is why the media and many others have chosen it.

Even so, green can be confusing because it is used as a catchall for a complicated set of concepts. The following are some examples of how the term is used to denote anything that conserves our natural resources while protecting the environment: 1) All things grown organically, without petroleum based chemicals from food to organic cotton. 2) All things natural and from raw materials grown or found in nature and not made from petroleum. 3) As an example, clothing made from soybeans is green. 4) Any renewable resource, like sunshine, wind and water is green when used to power homes and factories. 5) Products and processes that are less toxic or non-toxic such as non-petroleum based cleaning products, low VOC paints and bio-based plastics. 6) Recycled content is green and so is the term recyclable. 7) A technology, product or service that saves energy, water or resources.

Fair trade products are considered green.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

a

Slimmer

cappuccino

Most coffee bars offer a choice of milk to make your cappuccino frothy. Remember to ask for low fat or non-dairy. A cup of whole milk contains 150 calories as opposed to a cup of skimmed which contains only 85 calories. You won’t know the difference. Your cappuccino will taste the same.

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37

replace your

Grass and get Cash!

by Madeline Palaszewski

How would you like to put cash in your pocket and save water? California and several cities on the Central Coast offer rebates if homeowners replace lawns with landscapes that require little water. Currently, the cities of Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Morro Bay and Atascadero have turf replacement rebate programs. Many cities in Santa Barbara County also offer cash for grass rebates. The state’s program is expected to assist in replacing more than 10 million square feet of turf. Up to $2 per square foot of removed and replaced turf will be rebated per eligible household. Lawns are water guzzlers and it’s estimated that over 50% of homeowners’ water is used for irrigation, largely for turf areas. Most of the programs require that lawns be replaced with drought tolerant landscaping and offer suggestions on plants and materials to be used. Each program has specific requirements and will be available until funding runs out. For each city’s application, log on to its website. The details for California’s rebate program can be found at www.saveourwater.com.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

Depressed? try a hot shower...

A Yale University study surveyed 51 students about their levels of loneliness and everyday habits, concluding that some people use physical warmth (like hot showers and roasting cups of coffee) as a substitute for social warmth. Taking showers and baths that increase body temperature can subsequently improve our mood. Physical warmth seems to cause similar body and brain responses.

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39

mom said...

Eat Wisely You've heard, "Don't eat anything your great-great-great grandmother wouldn't recognize as food." Maybe so.

Mother used to predict “they” would eventually discover that butter was better for you.

She was right: the trans-fatty margarine is killing us. Eat food, not food products.

Avoid foods containing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). It’s not just in cereals and soft drinks but also in ketchup and lunch meats, baked goods, soups and salad dressings. No chef uses high-fructose corn syrup. We spend only 9.7% of our income on food, a smaller share than any other nation. Is it a coincidence we spend a larger percentage than any other on health care (16%)? Consider that the healthiest foods in the supermarket, the fresh produce, are the ones that don't make FDA approved health claims.

Shop at the farmers’ market. You'll begin to eat foods in season, when they are at the peak of their nutritional value and flavor. You'll also be supporting farmers in your community, helping defend the countryside from sprawl, saving oil by eating food produced nearby and teaching your children the importance of healthy eating.

How you eat is as important as what you eat. Americans are fixated on nutrients, good and bad, while the French and Italians focus on the whole eating experience. Eat moderate portions, don't go for seconds or snacks between meals, and try not to eat alone.

Relax. Eat good food, and enjoy it too!

40

Meatless mondays The precedent for Meatless Mondays actually began decades ago, during the terms of Presidents Wilson, Truman, and Roosevelt, who encouraged voluntary meatless days during both World Wars to help conserve food for the war effort.

In 2003, the movement was revitalized in the interest of American health. The ultimate goal of the current campaign is to reduce American meat consumption by 15 percent. The Meatless Monday movement has played a big part in helping spread the green word.

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41

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

Cinnamon medicinal

properties?

Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon and its essential oil have now proven to possess potent anti-bacterial, anti-viral, antifungal, anti-parasitic and anti-yeast properties (killing 5 strains of Candida, including Candida albicans). Cinnamon also offers many benefits for diabetes: it may reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

It's a potent antioxidant, inhibiting the formation of cancer-causing free radicals. In lab studies it has reversed the damage of Alzheimer's disease and demonstrated anti-aging effects on human skin. This super-spice is currently being used in five ongoing clinical trials related to obesity control and blood sugar control for diabetes.

The latest science is clear: true cinnamon could be a very important addition to a healthy, balanced diet focused on organic fruit, vegetables, whole grains and healthy herbs and spices. A whiff of cinnamon can boost your brain. Even cinnamon-flavored gum enhances memory, visual-motor speed, recognition, attention, and focus. Try some apples and cinnamon for a snack, especially for your kids before homework.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe: 4 oz. of very strong coffee / ¾ cup of almond milk / 3 tbsp. organic pumpkin puree / 1½ tbs. maple syrup / ⅛ tsp. cinnamon / ⅛ tsp. of vanilla extract.

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Magnesium the relaxation mineral Think of magnesium as the relaxation mineral. Anything that is tight, irritable, crampy, and stiff, whether it is a body part or even a mood, is a sign of magnesium deficiency. This critical mineral is actually responsible for over 300 enzyme reactions and is found in all of your tissues, but mainly in your bones, muscles, and brain. You must have it for your cells to make energy, for many different chemical pumps to work, to stabilize membranes, and to help muscles relax. When was the last time you had a good dose of seaweed, nuts, greens, and beans? If you are like most Americans, your nut consumption mostly comes from peanut butter. Here are some ways to stop draining your body of magnesium: 1) Limit coffee, colas, salt, sugar, and alcohol. 2) Learn how to practice active relaxation. 3) Check with your doctor if your medication is causing magnesium loss (many high blood pressure drugs or diuretics cause loss of magnesium). Eat foods high in magnesium and include the following in your diet as often as you can: Kelp, wheat bran, wheat germ, almonds, cashews, buckwheat, brazil nuts, dulse, filberts, millet, pecans, walnuts, rye, tofu, soy beans, brown rice, figs, dates, collard greens, shrimp, avocado, parsley, beans, barley, dandelion greens, and garlic. Take Magnesium supplements: The RDA (the minimum amount needed) for magnesium is about 300 mg a day.

Most of us get far less than 200 mg.

Taking a hot bath with Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) is a good way to absorb and get much needed magnesium.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

let it go and

Heal!

According to Dr. Steven Standiford, chief of surgery at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, refusing to forgive makes people sick, and keeps them that way. Forgiveness therapy is now being used to help treat diseases, such as cancer. Of all cancer patients, 61% have forgiveness issues, and of those, more than half are severe, according to research. Harboring negative emotions creates a state of chronic anxiety.

Chronic anxiety very predictably produces excess adrenaline and cortisol, which deplete the production of natural killer cells, which is your body's foot soldier in the fight against cancer. When a person forgives from the heart they are able to find a sense of peacefulness. Most people don't realize what a burden anger and hatred were until they let them go.

Eco Fact:

If families reused just 2 ft. of holiday ribbon, the 38,000 miles of ribbon saved could tie a bow around the entire planet!

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

lose weight with Fruits & Veggies!

Eating fruits and vegetables of all kinds is good for you, but some are better than others when it comes to losing weight.

Produce with a lot of fiber and a low glycemic index could help a person achieve and maintain healthy weight, according to a new study published in the journal PLOS Medicine. Over a 24-year period, scientist recorded the diets of more than 117,000 men and women in their 30s and 40s. They confirmed something we certainly already knew: Fruits and vegetables are healthy.

And they noticed something else as they examined the group in 4-year intervals: Participants who increased their daily intake of fruits and vegetables gained less weight than those who did not. But a closer look at the data revealed that not all fruits and veggies were alike for maintaining a healthy weight. Adding a daily serving of tofu and soy foods like edamame, for example,

resulted in gaining 2.47 fewer pounds.

Foods like berries, citrus, apples, pears and peppers also made noteworthy positive differences in people's weight. Starchy vegetables like corn, peas and potatoes, on the other hand, were not effective in minimizing weight gain. The takeaway here is not to quit your weekly baked potato or your favorite spring pea salad. Considering that fewer than 15 percent of American adults meet the daily intake guidelines, it'd be wise to keep them on your plate.

Plus, potatoes provide a hearty dose of potassium and fiber, and peas are packed with vitamin K and other crucial nutrients.

Instead, include more of the good stuff on your plate. Add some berries into that pea salad or eat some peppers alongside your potato. The added fiber will keep you fuller for longer and could possibly stave off your craving for dessert.

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It's Time to Are you feeling weighed down, both literally and emotionally? We all seem to be surrounded by STUFF. By following a simple strategy, we can donate, recycle, and discard so many unused things. Here are 10 tips: 1) Sort by category, not location. Gather every single item in a particular category in one place, then consider them all side by side. 2) Pick up each item and ask yourself, "Does it spark joy?" Actually hold each item in your hands and consider it anew. Then ask yourself if it brings you joy. If it gives you a thrill as you hold it, keep it. But if it doesn't, throw it in the

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donate pile. 3) Don't downgrade clothes to loungewear. If you have clothes you know you'll never wear outside, don't let them pile up as loungewear. 4) For unread books, "sometime" means "never."

There is a small window of time to read a book after you purchase it. Once that window closes, and it has gathered dust for a while, your chances of reading it are slim to none. Donate that unneeded book to someone who will read it. 5) Recycle those piles of papers. Papers will never inspire joy. Old lecture materials? Recycle them, you got what you needed from the experience of attending the talk. Credit card statements? Check them for errant charges,

Declutter! then into the shredder they go. 6) Don't keep gifts out of guilt. Admit it: you've gotten gifts you don't like. The point of a gift is to express someone's feelings. After the joy of the gift-giving moment is through, you can donate the gift without guilt.

7) Recycle electronics packaging. As soon as you get your new cell phone or iPod out of its packaging, recycle both the box and the manual. You can always get answers to any questions online. 8) Rid yourself of komono. This is the Japanese word for "miscellaneous items." Spare buttons, unidentified cords, free novelty goods. Clear 'em out and make space for the things you truly love.

9) Declutter photos and mementos.

You don't need to keep all those old birthday cards and blurry photos of European architecture. Ask yourself if it inspires joy.

They will be the photos that best bring back the joy of that time. Let the rest go. Ditto with old birthday cards and love letters.

10) Storage experts are hoarders.

Beware focusing on clever storage solutions before you've gone through every item in your house. Many storage experts focus on stuffing as many things as they can into your closet, without stopping to examine whether they bring joy. Don't make that fatal mistake.

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The Perfect Blend

of Wine & Music for the Central Coast

STREAMING & ON DEMAND @ KRUSH925.COM 50

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2015 – 2016

going green at the

Grocer's Paying with cash can keep you from impulsively tossing high-cost, high calorie snacks into your cart, according to a new study from the Journal of Consumer Research. That's because you have more awareness of the money you're spending when you pull bills out of your wallet, compared with when you just swipe a credit card. Try breaking the credit card habit and you could shrink your waistline and grow your bank account.

Eco Fact:

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

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are you

Kind?

The definition of kindness is, “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.�

But why does it seem so hard? How do we practice kindness? Here are some ideas: 1) Give with no expectations: When we give with expectations of something in return it often leads to receiving without limitation. 2) Understand that self-sacrifice often leads to self-sabotage: When you sacrifice yourself at the expense of others, it is likely to lead to resentment, inner anger, and even jealousy. Another way to look at this is a drowning person cannot help someone else who is drowning. 3) Practice the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Certainly, we would want others to be friendly, genuine, and considerate toward us, so it would make sense to do the same to others.

4) Radiate Kindness: When you walk down the street envision your eyes sparkling, your face aglow, and your lips smiling. This will attract kindness to you and make your practice easier. 5) Practice Non-Discriminatory Kindness: We can all agree that giving a homeless person food or money is an act of kindness. But what if you saw anyone in need of help who you perceived to have more than you or who was more powerful than you?

Could you be kind to that person?

Follow your instinct for kindness, and don't discriminate.

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Inspired Health & Fitness Expo March 19 & 20 10-4pm

CHC 5K FUN RUN REGISTRATION: 7-8am RACE START: 8:30am RUNNER EXPO: 9-10am

Over 100 Health & Fitness

5K Run Starting & Ending at the Alex Madonna Expo Center

Professionals Free Educational Seminars Free Performances & Fitness Classes Free Medical Testing Free Admission & Parking

$25 Donation

benefits Project Teen Health Afterschool Program

REGISTER AT

inspiredexpos.com

805.772.4600

@ the Alex Madonna Expo Center

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