Buffalo Natural Awakenings - February 2016

H E A L T H Y

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Anti-Aging Secrets An Interview with Alyssa Milano

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

KIDS’

YOGA Mindful Minutes for Little Ones

The Power of Friendship It Sustains, Nourishes and Supports Us

February 2016 | Buffalo, NY Edition | BuffaloAwakenings.com natural awakenings

February 2016

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A DV E RTO RI A L

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Manuka Honey is gathered in the wild back country of New Zealand from the native Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). The bees don’t use the pollen from a variety of other flowers or plants, so the content of the honey is very consistent. A 2013 study in the European Journal of Medical Research used active Manuka Honey under dressings on postoperative wounds for an 85 percent success rate in clearing up infections, compared with 50 percent for normal antibiotic creams.

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newsbriefs healthbriefs globalbriefs ecobrief ecotip practitioner spotlight healthykids healingways business spotlight fitbody naturalpet wisewords calendar classifieds resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 716-909-7805 or email Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@BuffaloAwakenings.com. Deadline for editorial: feature articles are due by the 5th of the month, news briefs and health briefs are due by the 10th.

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Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

12 MINDFUL MINUTES FOR LITTLE ONES

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Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax

by Julianne Hale

14 YOUR MOUTH

TELLS A STORY

Functional Dentistry Connects Oral Health to Sleep Apnea and Heart Disease

by Linda Sechrist

16 THE POWER

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OF FRIENDSHIP

It Sustains, Nourishes and Supports Us

by Judith Fertig

20 GLIDING ACROSS SNOWSCAPES

Cross-Country Ski to Explore Winter’s Wonders

by Randy Kambic

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22 BIRD-WATCHING FOR BEGINNERS

Start with a Bird Feeder and Binoculars

by Sandra Murphy

24 ALYSSA MILANO’S

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ANTI-AGING SECRETS

Her Natural Lifestyle Choices Keep Her Young

by Gerry Strauss

BuffaloAwakenings.com natural awakenings

February 2016

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contact us Publisher Sally Hess Gower Editor Brad Gower Assisting Editors Martin Miron Sara Peterson Design & Production Stephen Blancett C. Michele Rose Sales & Marketing Sally Gower Ida Pannozzo Multi-Market Advertising 239-449-8309 Franchise Sales 239-530-1377 Buffalo Natural Awakenings P.O. Box 108, Buffalo, NY 14226 Phone: 716-909-7805 Fax: 716-970-4712 Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings.com BuffaloAwakenings.com ©2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised.

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe to the free digital magazine at Buffaloawakenings.com. Mailed subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

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n last month’s issue, I ruminated on a New Year’s resolution to truly take the time to be mindful. While sincere in my efforts, I have to admit I’m surprised that it’s working. I’m the type of person who gets caught up in trying to work through a task perfectly, only to later stop to realize why I took it on in the first place. Recently, while planning for Sally and Emily Gower at Kaydara Noodle Bar my daughter Emily’s shower, I made an agonizing list, checked and rechecked it; all the while worrying about the perfection of every little detail. Then it finally hit me: this is my darling baby girl marrying her soulmate. Regardless of the details, the shower is bound to be a wonderfully special and unique event. My resolution lives on!

Returning to the present moment allows me to appreciate the family and friends that make these moments truly special. Our feature article this month, “The Power of Friendship,” highlights how great friends help us cope with the bad times and celebrate the good. The two main pieces of advice; being open to making new friends and making the first move, resonate strongly with me. Every good friendship requires both parties to bring positivity.

Positivity is our current mantra in Western New York. We have truly earned our “City of Good Neighbors” moniker, proven by some recent small acts of kindness I have witnessed. I read in a letter to the Buffalo News of a woman that mistakenly left her purse at Kleinhans Music Hall after a performance. Walking back to her car, she realized her mistake and hurried back in a panic to find some kind Buffalonians patiently guarding it, knowing she would eventually return.

Many have witnessed their own version of this story. My husband’s version substitutes his smart phone, the post office and yet another kind stranger that saved him hundreds of dollars and a massive technology-induced headache. The unpredictability of these kind deeds is the force that allows the story to be retold.

I encourage our readers to harness their impulsivity, not just through generous deeds, but with fun activities, as well. This issue features articles that reveal the wonders of bird-watching and cross-country skiing, with helpful lists of local hotspots for both. Even kids can get involved with the unexpected by practicing yoga designed specifically for youngsters—some as young as 8 weeks! Even with snow on the ground, there is always so much to enjoy.

Whatever it is you do, try your best to be mindful. Trust me, it takes the unexpected to a whole new level.

Practicing mindfulness daily with love,

Sally Gower, Publisher BuffaloAwakenings.com

newsbriefs Alpine Made Goat’s Milk Products Sold at Buffalo Winter Markets

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ustomers can now conveniently buy Alpine Made local, farm-fresh organic and non-organic goat’s milk soaps and skincare products at several indoor retail locations in Buffalo during the coldest months of the year. Venues include Buffalo State College Winter Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturdays at Buckham Hall, 1300 Elmwood Avenue; Horsefeathers Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays at 346 Connecticut Street; and Hertel Avenue Market on February 13, 2016, for a special event.

Alpine Made is a certified organic farm raising Alpine dairy goats using sustainable and organic farming practices to produce organic milk used to craft soap and skincare products that contain no GMO-based oils, artificial colors, or fragrances. Alpine Made products impart an organic goat milk luxury experience to the skin.

For more information, visit AlpineMade.com and Facebook.

Health Expo at Delaware Park

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he fifth Annual Holistic Health Expo, sponsored in part by Natural Awakenings magazine, will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., August 14, at Marcy Casino, at Delaware Park in Buffalo. Practitioners will be offering their skills, products and services to share the beauty of living life in a holistic manner. Holistic refers to tending the mind, body and spirit—all essential elements of living a balanced life.

Services include energy healing, essential oils and natural products for skin care, health and home, as well as homeopathy, mediumship, crystal gems, life coaching, chiropractic care and herbal supplements. Speakers will discuss managing stress, using herbs to heal, hypnotherapy and more. There will be interactive demonstrations of meditation for adults and children, laughter yoga, drum circles and more.

Coordinator Jill O’Hara states, “It is our fifth year of this informative event that has grown every year! It was created to bring people together to share knowledge, laughter, dancing and opportunities for better health.”

Admission is free; some services require a small fee. Sponsorships are available.

For more information, call O’Hara at 716-425-2996.

News to share?

Email details to: Editor@BuffaloAwakenings.com

or call 716-228-2744.

For submission guidelines, visit BuffaloAwakenings.com.

Submittal deadline is the 10th of the month. natural awakenings

February 2016

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newsbriefs

Women’s Rights on the March

Try the Ultimate Detoxification Package at Green Spa Holistics

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reen Spa Holistics, in Williamsville, has added the Ultimate Detox Package to their menu of services that already features many types of massage, facials, body treatments, as well as holistic services like reiki, reflexology, iridology, hypnosis, CranioSacral Therapy, organic products and more.

The new package includes a 20-minute infrared sauna session, an ionic foot bath to cleanse the lymphatic system and a skin-tightening and exfoliating herbal detox mud wrap, all performed by Joei Marie Lucey, RN, and owner of Green Spa.

Detoxification, when done properly can reach the cellular level and initiates numerous positive effects on the entire body. It can release the buildup of many years of blocked toxins in the cells, allowing the body to be able to initiate its own healing process.

Location: 5526 Main St., Williamsville, NY. For appointments, call 716-635-6482 or visit GreenSpaHolistics.com.

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ew York State has taken some welcome action by passing a spate of new laws that expand the rights of women. The Women’s Equality Agenda includes a Preventing Human Trafficking and Protecting Trafficked Victims law that toughens existing penalties.

Another law ensuring equal pay will guarantee women receive the wages they are entitled to by prohibiting employers from paying employees disparate amounts due to gender.

Another statute stopping discrimination based on family status will help working mothers in the hiring and promotion of people with families. Prior laws only prohibited discrimination based on family status in credit and housing decisions, but not employment with children.

A new Breastfeeding Mothers’ Bill of Rights update adds a provision that allows women to take reasonable, unpaid breaks at work in order to pump breast milk for up to three years following childbirth. Information will be publicly posted in maternal healthcare facilities, nurseries, maternity floors and post-delivery rooms to ensure that women are aware of this right, preventing employers from discriminating against them based on their decision to express breast milk at work.

For more information, visit NYSenate.gov/legislation/bills.

kudos

Kristin Goss, an assistant professor in the Hospitality Management Department at Erie Community College, has received the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development 2016 Excellence Award. She was the driving force behind The Learning Garden at Canalside, as well as a Farm to Table course. The award recognizes Goss Kristin Goss as a leading community voice for healthy nutrition and innovative teaching.

For more information, visit nisod.org.

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healthbriefs

High-Fructose Sweetener Aggravates Asthma and Bronchitis

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large study from the New York Medical College and the University of Massachusetts found that highfructose corn syrup (HFCS) is linked to a greater risk of asthma and chronic bronchitis. The research included 2,801 people between the ages of 20 and 55 years old.

The scientists utilized health data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 2003 to 2006 to compare people with a history of chronic bronchitis.

The study measured the types of soft drinks consumed, eliminating risks related to known asthma relationships such as smoking.

The researchers found those that drank five or more HFCS-containing sodas per week had an 80 percent increased incidence of chronic bronchitis. Greater intake of HFCS has also been linked with higher risk of other health conditions, including diabetes and obesity.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET SUSTAINS MORE YOUTHFUL BRAIN SIZES

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s we age, our brains shrink, a condition linked to cognitive impairment. According to a study from Columbia University, a healthy diet can help reduce such occurrences. The researchers studied 674 adults with an average age of 80. They were divided into two groups, depending upon their diets, and given magnetic resonance imaging scans to measure total brain volume and thickness.

It was found that those following diets that most closely resembled the Mediterranean diet—less meat and more vegetables and fish—had larger brain sizes with less shrinking.

The researchers equated the average size difference between the groups to about five years of aging.

Dr. Yian Gu, a neuropsychology professor at Columbia University, says, “This is another study consistent with previous studies that indicate the Mediterranean diet is an overall healthy diet.”

natural awakenings

February 2016

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healthbriefs

Kids Get Fewer Cavities When Mothers Chew Xylitol Gum

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esearch published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry has concluded mothers that chew natural xylitol gum regularly will significantly reduce oral infections of mutans streptococcus bacteria in their infants. Five research teams and 11 randomized studies of 601 mothers and their children showed 46 percent fewer infections of the bacteria, which is the central species responsible for dental caries and periodontal disease. The studies included children that were 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months old.

Other research supports the claim of xylitol’s beneficial nature. A study from the University of Manchester, in England, analyzing data from 4,216 schoolchildren, showed that using toothpaste containing xylitol with fluoride resulted in 13 percent less tooth decay than using toothpaste with fluoride only.

Note: Xylitol is toxic to dogs; if ingested, consult a veterinarian.

Kids Learn Social Skills Through Pretending and Joking

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esearch published in the journal Cognitive Science has found that toddlers with parents that played with them using humor and fantasy gained increased skills for learning, imagining and bonding, along with thinking in abstract ways.

The researchers tested children between 16 and 24 months old in two phases. The first utilized action play among 25 kids and the second utilized verbal play among 40 children.

The parents and children pretended to do activities such as washing their hands with no soap or creating situations using a toy.

During the second phase, the children and parents played around jokingly by using words, identifying things in funny ways and making believe they were doing things.

The researchers found that joking and pretend play allowed the kids to distinguish cues that helped them communicate and develop skills to understand intentions. The study also found that older toddlers relied more on verbal cues to understand pretending and joking communications.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month 8

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globalbriefs

coverartist

News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

Green Goalposts

Super Bowl Eco-Stadium Gains National Spotlight The 50th Super Bowl will take place February 7 at the brandnew Levi’s Stadium, in Santa Clara, outside San Francisco, and the anniversary isn’t the only thing that’s historic. As part of a trend toward sustainability in athletic facilities, it’s the greenest and most technologically advanced professional football stadium in the U.S. The structure is designed to support sustainability, located on a site with accessible public transportation plus a bike path to encourage fans to pedal to and from games.

Its predominantly open and airy, environmentally friendly building plan also takes advantage of the Silicon Valley climate. One outstanding feature is the green roof atop the suite tower on the west side of the stadium. Another is the three solar bridges connecting the main parking area to the stadium that generate energy from hundreds of solar panels.

All of the wood used was repurposed from a local airplane hangar at Moffett Field, in Mountain View, California, and other reclaimed building products were used where possible. Reclaimed water sources serve potable and non-potable uses, including playing field irrigation. The local suppliers providing farm-to-table food menus also are required to practice composting and recycling to the greatest extent possible.

For more information, visit LevisStadium.com.

Nice Spice

McCormick Going Non-GMO McCormick, the world’s largest spice company, plans to eliminate almost all genetically modified (GMO) ingredients from their product line by 2016. In response to increased consumer demand for healthier options, 80 percent of its overall gourmet herb and spice business in the U.S. will be both organic and non-GMO by 2016, as well as all McCormick-branded herbs, spices and extracts sold in the U.S.

They will voluntarily label the updated products to inform consumers as part of a commitment to transparency and consumer education. The first product introduced, a non-GMO vanilla extract, is already available.

McCormick also uses steam treatments in its processing to preserve the health benefits of spices instead of the ionizing irradiation used by competitors. Although food radiation is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, some studies link it to significant health problems.

“Our consumers are increasingly interested in quality flavors with pure ingredients in their food,” says McCormick President and Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Kurzius. “Our efforts prove that we are listening to consumers and are committed to continuing to evolve.”

Source: NaturalNews.com

Planted Hearts Darlene Seale “Each heart image has its unique markings and patterns, just as our own heart experiences make us who we are,” explains cover artist Darlene Seale.

She created Planted Hearts on an iPad using a digital painting program with a specialized stylus as her brush. “I make every stroke by hand, as if I were using traditional paint and a brush,” she says.

Inspired by Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky, she shares, “I admire artists that combine unusual elements that invite the viewer in. There’s always more to explore the deeper one is willing to look.” As a child, Seale discovered color via crayons and paint, and recalls the power they gave her. “Those tools suddenly opened my eyes to so many possibilities,” she recalls.

Seale’s artistic explorations are executed in a variety of media, with a primary focus on graphic design, blending art and words. She shares, “I believe art heals the heart and its creation promotes joy. For this reason, I find myself drawn to making iconic images using an abundance of color, texture and pattern.”

Seale creates art and teaches art workshops in her home studio near San Diego in Fallbrook, California.

She remarks, “When I make something and it evolves into art that’s quite different than what I expect, I love it.

It’s both humbling and joyful.”

View the artist’s portfolio at BadBirdStudio.com.

natural awakenings

February 2016

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ecobrief

ecotip

Microbeads on the Way Out

Eco-Cappuccino

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rie County was one of the first in the country to ban polythylene microbeads in a variety of consumer products, and now President Obama has just signed the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015, which bans production of any new beauty products containing microbeads; with all currents products containing microbeads to be off shelves by 2018.

In the meantime, Wegmans has pledged to remove health and beauty products that contain microbeads from all their stores. Jo Natale, Wegmans vice president of media relations, says, “Tiny plastic microbeads are causing big environmental concerns in waterways, prompting Wegmans Food Markets to remove all personal care products containing this ingredient from store shelves by mid-February. Microbeads are found in some face washes, body scrubs and toothpaste formulas. These synthetic plastic particles, smaller than pinheads, pass through drains, slipping through wastewater treatment plants and into natural waterways, where they do not break down in the aquatic environment. Recent studies reveal that these particles can become coated with other toxins, and some marine species ingest these contaminants. The Great Lakes have been identified as having large concentrations of microbeads.”

“We feel this is the right thing to do for the communities we serve,” says Mary Ellen Burris, Wegmans senior vice-president of consumer affairs. “It falls under our sustainability mission to make responsible decisions that positively impact people, business and the environment.”

For more information, visit Wegmans.com.

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published in 95+ U.S. markets and Puerto Rico.

To advertise with us call:

716-909-7805

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Reducing Coffee Shop Waste For many, getting a coffee to go at a favorite spot on the way to work or while dropping the kids off at school and running errands is a weekday ritual.

It also warms up the body on cold mornings in northern regions this time of year. The java might taste even better if we reduce the amount of waste traditionally involved.

Here are a few ways to better cherish Earth’s resources.

Avoid the paper cup; carry a reusable thermos or insulated bottle instead as a matter of routine. Author and activist Beth Terry, in her book Plastic Free: How I Kicked the Habit and How You Can Too suggests both stainless steel beverage containers and mugs. She also recommends glass mason jars and points out that EcoJarz recently began making stainless steel caps and lids instead of plastic.

Learn more at MyPlasticFreeLife.com. Terry further cites the unhealthy aspects of continual use of paper cups because, “Many are lined with plastic, and the plastic lids are often the equivalent of Styrofoam.”

If caught without a favorite reusable container, Treehugger.com’s Katherine Martinko recommends at least giving an old paper cup one more turn. “It’s not a zero waste solution, but if you’ve already got a paper cup in your car or kitchen, you might as well extend its life.

Wash and hand it over the next time you get a coffee,” she suggests. “It will still do the job.”

For those that add cream, milk or sugar to coffee, consider the waste involved just in the plastic and wood stirrers provided by the shop that are tossed in the trash after serving their one-time function. “Avoid all of them,” advises Terry.

“Carry a clean utensil in the car,” such as a bamboo tableware or a spork (combination spoon and fork). Cutting down or weaning off of dairy, sugar and especially sugar substitutes is another healthful move.

practitionerspotlight

Arup Bhattacharya and His Homeopathic Mission

by Brad Gower

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hirty-three years ago, Arup Bhatbelieve in it or not.” He encourages people tacharya earned a bachelor’s degree to give it a chance and let the results speak in microbiology from the University for themselves. “The cost is very minimal. of Bombay. He went on to earn master’s Toxicity is almost zero. It doesn’t make you degrees in both biophysics and psychology, drug dependent,” says Bhattacharya. and later a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular He also seeks to spread the word biophysics. He is now one of the leading about homeopathic research, some of practitioners of homeopathy in Western which he performs with colleagues. BhatNew York. tacharya would like to secure funding

“I have a very weird background,” Bhatand work within the conventional field tacharya acknowledges. “Very rarely do you to demystify his practice. He cites medifind somebody in the complementary field cal doctors that practice homeopathy and Arup Bhattacharya who also has conventional training. I am a points to a growing portfolio of scienscientist. I understand the world of science. I tific studies. At the same time, he warns can make sense of both worlds and bring them together, which against practices that could harm the improving reputation I think is a key requirement for any integrative approach.” of the field. “The rabid superstitious element you see in

After pursuing other professional goals, Bhattacharya some complementary practices is not good. Keep an open received a full scholarship and fellowship for his Ph.D. at the mind, but don’t be superstitious. Do it based on what can Roswell Park Cancer Institute of the University at Buffalo. A be replicated,” he advises. desire to heal others and a unique perspective on the deeper

Bhattacharya chose Western New York because he sees source of society’s ailments are what drove him to pursue the something special in the community. “I saw that Buffalo was homeopathic field. “From the homeopathic healer’s perspecvoted as one of the most spiritual places in the past, and I tive, really deep psychosomatic issues are at work,” Bhatunderstand why. People are by nature very positive and very tacharya explains. “Deep inside, it’s all the dissatisfaction gentle. Despite the climate, you see people helping each and frustration; not knowing what happiness is and trying other. Overall, it’s a wonderful place to be.” to look for it elsewhere, like with overeating. I think that’s

He also points to Buffalo’s history as a vibrant homeothe main cause of problems. Most people are very unhappy, pathic center, expressing a willingness to work homesuffering is all around us. This translates to chronic physical opathy into its current renaissance. “One hundred and problems, and as we know today, more than 70 percent of fifty years back, you had to be a homeopathic physician doctor’s office visits are for a psychosomatic reason” to practice in many hospitals, such as in Millard Fillmore

Because our health struggles come from within, it makes Gates Circle,” he notes. “I’m happy to start spreading the sense to look to the same place for healing. This is why possibility that we can use homeopathy along with conBhattacharya believes deeply in the mind-body connection. ventional therapy once again.”

“There is this lack of confidence in their own system, think He believes that the answers to many of our woes are ing that conventional medicine is all there is,” he says. “For to be found not from without, but from within. “You have to human beings to rely completely on that is a mistake. You invest in disease, but health is a natural flow and you don’t should when you need it, but not for every little thing.” have to invest anything,” says Bhattacharya. “People forget

Bhattacharya understands that some might be skeptical that, and that’s why they struggle.” of his work. While many of his patients are regulars that have benefited from homeopathy, others learn of him by word Arup Bhattacharya Ph.D., a doctor of homeopathic mediof mouth. “People who don’t believe in homeopathy come cine, practices and teaches homeopathy in Western New to me very often because they are facing a wall,” he says.

York. For appointments, call 716-310-3789 or visit Ho“Well, if it’s something that works, it will work whether we meopathicHealers.com. See ad, page 7.

Because our health struggles come from within, it makes sense to look to the same place for healing. natural awakenings

February 2016

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healthykids

Mindful Minutes for Little Ones Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax

by Julianne Hale

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merican kids’ school, after-school and weekend schedules now rival the hectic pace of their multitasking parents. Like their adult counterparts, youngsters need time to decompress from the pressures of life and be present in their own skin, and yoga provides the tools to accomplish this.

Most adults take to their yoga mat to create harmony in their body and mind, increase flexibility and balance, build muscle tone and strength, and because it makes them feel great. These

same benefits apply to children as their developing bodies and minds respond to yoga on a deep level, both on and off the mat.

Start with Watching Breath

“Breathing and mindfulness practices are important for children,” explains Mariam Gates, the Santa Cruz, California, creator of the Kid Power Yoga Program and author of Good Morning Yoga and the upcoming Good Night

FREE Introduction to Mindgardens Services: Fri, Feb. 19, 6PM

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Yoga. “There is so much that children are not in control of in their everyday lives; to give them a way to physically process their experience, to self-soothe and find their own internal source of strength, is crucial.”

“Having kids experience simply paying attention to their breath as it comes all the way in and moves all the way out can serve them well in every area of their lives going forward,” says Gates. In the classroom, it transfers to learning skills benefited by the ability to focus.

From toddlers to teens, children can have a difficult time processing and controlling their emotions, which are vital life skills. Carla Tantillo, founder of Mindful Practices, a Chicago-area wellness organization, has found that yoga and the practice of mindfulness help children express themselves in constructive ways.

She observes, “In any situation, especially in communities where reactivity, impulsiveness and violent solutions are modeled, yoga empowers children to pause and take a breath so they can own what’s happened, move through it and move on.”

“I like yoga because it makes me feel like there is calm all around me,” says 8-year-old Biko Cooper.

Dee Marie, the Boulder, Colorado, founder and executive director of Calming Kids, a nonprofit program that integrates yoga into the classroom to foster a nonviolent atmosphere, says, “When a child learns through yoga how to feel a sense of themselves and begins to understand their self-worth and stand tall in their power, they can begin to regulate their breath and their emotions.”

These invaluable skills stay with children through adulthood.

Step into Yoga Together

Educators are starting to take notice of yoga’s benefits for children, including those with attention deficit disorders or autism, but yoga practice is still rare among school-age children. As encouragement, “Make it fun,” advises Gates.

“It’s essential to create experiences that feel accessible and enjoyable for kids.

They must feel empowered to do it themselves and take over the experience.”

Six-year-old Carmen Wheeler likes doing yoga with her dad. “Yoga gets me feeling strong and it really calms me down,” she says. Music can help children relax and focus dur-

ing their practice. Soothing basic instrumentals are good to start; an Internet search for yoga music for kids reveals many options.

Parents can assist by incorporating yoga into a child’s daily bedtime ritual. “Do whatever they are willing to do with them,” counsels Marie. “Start by lying on the bedroom floor, doing stretches and focusing on breathing. Then move to the bed and teach some relaxation and visualization techniques.”

Marie cautions parents against insisting that their child’s yoga practice mirror their own. “We have to meet children where they are.”

Adults think that yoga has to look a certain way, but sometimes children don’t necessarily want to do the postures we’re familiar with. The best teaching reaches each individual child in a way that resonates with them because yoga is a lifestyle, not an exercise regimen,” she says. Yoga novices and parents that

prefer specific guidance can take advantage of local studio classes for children and families or use DVDs, online streaming services and instruction books.

Kevin Day, age 5, regularly starts his days with a Boat pose.

“I like it because you can do it with a friend,” he says.

Lisa Flynn, the Dover, New Hampshire, founder and chief executive officer of ChildLight Yoga and Yoga 4 Classrooms, is optimistic about the future. “In 10 years, I envision social and emotional learning, yoga, and mindfulness integrated at every school and mandated by educational policy,” she says. In addition to improved physical, social, emotional and cognitive health and wellness of the students, teachers and parents, she foresees “a positive shift in the overall school climate.”

Julianne Hale is a freelance writer and Natural Awakenings franchise magazine editor in Cleveland, TN.

Cultivating Mindfulness in the Classroom

by Julianne Hale

W

hen Scott Frauenheim, director of the Chicago International Charter School (CICS) West Belden, noticed that some students in his kindergarten through eighth grade urban classrooms were not fully engaged, he decided to focus the 2014-2015 school year on mindfulness for both students and faculty. He enlisted the help of Mindful Practices, a Chicagobased school wellness organization founded by Carla Tantillo.

Using the strategies Tantillo recommends in her book Cooling Down Your Classroom, teachers were taught to involve students in mindful minutes—short bursts of simple yoga poses, breathing exercises and other techniques—to

cultivate mindfulness. The initiative proved to be powerful and helpful, explains Frauenheim. “Soon students were able to identify areas of personal need throughout the day and cultivate mindfulness within themselves using what they learned.”

The program concluded last year, but CICS West Belden teachers and students continue to use designated time to practice mindfulness in the morning and as a classroom mental reset when they notice that students are distracted or unfocused during the day. Mindful Practices’ innovative programs have achieved similar success in other elementary, middle and high schools in the Chicago area.

Yoga For Kids in Western New York Budding Tree Yoga for Kids Offers programs for area schools 716-597-5759 BuddingTreeYoga.com JoyWheel Yoga & Wellness Kids Yoga classes and activities 716-655-2060 JoyWheelYoga.com Power Yoga Buffalo Kids Yoga classes at Elmwood location only 716-218-9642 PowerYogaBuffalo.com Rising Sun Yoga Center Kids Yoga classes 716-632-5802 RisingSunYoga.com Western New York Life Coaching Center Kids Yoga and life coaching, mindfulness and meditation for kids 716-560-5662 WNYLifeCoaching.com Yoga Parkside Kids Yoga for all ages starting at 8 weeks 716-772-8092 YogaParkside.com

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February 2016

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healingways

YOUR MOUTH TELLS A STORY

Functional Dentistry Connects Oral Health to Sleep Apnea and Heart Disease

by Linda Sechrist

T

he focus of functional medicine—whole person health care—easily expands to include dentists trained in oral systemic health.

Currently embraced by a small percentage of today’s farsighted dentists and doctors, this relatively new field of prevention and wellness views the mouth as a key portal when considering the status of the whole body. Similar to the way doctors of Oriental medicine assess the heart’s pulse to help diagnose health issues throughout the body, these systemic health dentists consider the gums, tongue, teeth and throat to be key signals of overall health.

American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH) Executive Director Bobbie Delsasso was a periodontal hygienist for more than 30 years before becoming a consultant and public speaker on the larger perspective.

“I taught patients about the importance of good nutrition and alerted them to consult their physician regarding what their mouth health might indicate about

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their body’s health,” she says. While the academy educates dental professionals to understand the internal workings of nutrition and what the mouth reveals about overall well-being, “Less than 6 percent of physicians even learn adequate basics of nutrition in medical schools,” she notes.

Cardiovascular Health Links

Beyond nutrition, academy curricula for dentists now include such titles as Arteriology and Vascular Inflammation – The Oral/Systemic Connection, based on a course designed for medical professionals by physician Bradley Bale and Amy Doneen, an advanced registered nurse practitioner, co-founders of the Bale/Doneen Method for the prevention of heart attack, stroke and diabetes. Mike Milligan, a doctor of dental medicine, founder of Eastland Dental Center, in Bloomington, Illinois, and AAOSH president, explains that heart attack and stroke are triggered by an inflammatory process which can be

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initiated or exacerbated by periodontal disease and abscessed teeth.

Thomas Nabors, a doctor of dental surgery and an authority in molecular analysis and genetic risk assessment for periodontal diseases, provides clinical proof that supports the growing association between medicine and dentistry. “Since our inaugural AAOSH conference [in 2010], Bradley, Amy and Tom have continued to provide the current science and clinical backdrop to the oral/systemic connection to cardiovascular wellness,” says Milligan.

Respiratory Health Links

Other vital advances in oral systemic health involve treating airway concerns such as snoring and sleep apnea. “Snoring is typically caused by muscles and tissues relaxing in the throat and mouth, resulting in decreased space in the airway passage and vibration of tissues. Eventually, individuals can develop sleep apnea, which can also result in hypertension and other problems,” advises Milligan.

In sleep apnea, the sleeper’s breathing pauses often or produces hypopnea, slowed or shallow breathing for 10 or more seconds at a time. Fewer than five episodes per hour is normal, with five to 15 considered mild apnea, 15 to 30 moderate and more than 30 severe.

Although 20 percent of Americans may have sleep apnea—typically associated with insomnia, tiredness and less oxygen in the

body—95 percent of affected individuals go undiagnosed. To help, Milligan suggests that before going to bed we lower the thermostat in the bedroom and avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, watching television or working on a computer.

Improved breathing helps assuage snoring, sleep apnea, asthma, hay fever and nasal congestion. Milligan cites Patrick McKeown’s work, explained in his book The Oxygen Advantage.

An authority on the Buteyko Breathing Method, McKeown explains how improved breathing dramatically improves oxygenation, releases more energy and supports lifelong health and well-being.

Muscle retraining using orofacial myofunctional therapy can help prevent sleep apnea and also abate temporomandibular joint disorders. This new

field is concerned with orofacial functional patterns and postures when teeth are apart, their status 95 percent of each day and night. It also retrains muscles to keep the tongue at the roof of the mouth and the lips together to prevent breathing through the mouth, correct swallowing function and eliminate poor oral habits such as thumb sucking.

Three mechanical treatments for sleep apnea include mandibular advancement oral devices used to move the lower jaw forward, a continuous positive airway pressure machine to aid airway functioning, or surgery, which is the last resort. “The real opportunity for catching and preventing this is with children 5 to 10 years old, when their jaws are developing,” says Milligan.

He further cites links discovered

between the mouth and brain. “Oral spirochetes, which normally live in the mouth, have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Dr. Judith Miklossy, from the International Association for Alzheimer’s, spoke at an AAOSH conference about the link between oral bacteria and dementia, and Garth Ehrlich, Ph.D., professor of microbiology, immunology and otolaryngology at Drexel University College of Medicine, addressed rheumatoid arthritis and certain types of cancers.

All of these links are more than enough reasons why good oral hygiene is essential to good health,” says Milligan.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP It Sustains, Nourishes and Supports Us

by Judith Fertig

For a reason, a season or a lifetime, friends help us cope with challenges, motivate our best work and celebrate life. Friendships take many forms, crossing generations and self-imposed boundaries, and even spring up between unlikely confidants.

C

hildhood friends Matt Damon and Ben Affleck collaborated on the Oscar-winning screenplay for Good Will Hunting. Fierce tennis competitors Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki like to get together for a gal-pal getaway after a major match.

Country music artists Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood married following an 18-year friendship; “We had a lot more in common than I ever dreamed we did,” says Brooks.

Rafts of research confirm how friendship enriches us. Carlin Flora, of New York City, spent years as a Psychology Today writer and editor before penning Friendfluence: The Surprising Ways Friends Make Us Who We Are. She notes that among the varied and perhaps unforeseen benefits, friendships can help us “shed pounds, sleep better, stop smoking and even survive a major illness.”

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An ongoing, two-decade-plus study of nearly 1,500 seniors by the Flinders University Centre for Ageing Studies, in Australia, found those with a large network of friends outliving others with the fewest friends by 22 percent. The University of Chicago National Opinion Research Center also reports people with five or more close friends as 50 percent more likely to describe themselves as “very happy” than those maintaining fewer confidants.

“Friends past and present play powerful and often unappreciated roles in determining our sense of self and the direction of our lives,” says Flora. “Even in a supposedly meritocratic society, friends give jobs and assignments to each other, so having friends that share your career interests and aspirations can get you much farther than you could ever get on your own.”

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Make New Friends, Keep the Old Today, making and keeping friends can be challenging, due to distance, frequent life changes, overprotective parenting and substituting social media for more intimate face time. It all makes friendship more fluid than we might realize, says Shasta Nelson, the San Francisco founder of GirlFriendCircles. com, a women’s friendship matching site and author of Friendships Don’t Just Happen: The Guide to Creating a Meaningful Circle of Girlfriends, plus the upcoming book, Frientimacy, about deepening such relationships.

“Most of us replace half of our close friends every seven years,” says Nelson. Although this might seem alarming, she considers it a natural ebb and flow. “We all need a couple of very close friends, while others that come and go might just be what we currently need—at work or school, among firsttime parents, in a new neighborhood, starting a job, in retirement or during some other life change,” she says.

Canadian Greg Tjosvold, a married middle school teacher in Vancouver, Canada, has enjoyed great friendships with women, including his wife, partly because he doesn’t relate to men’s generally competitive nature and interest in sports. But when a close female friend moved away, he wanted to expand his circle to include men. He joined a group called The Barley Brethren that sample craft beers and talk about life. Although not into suds, he values “having a safe and enjoyable place to discuss deep issues, victories and temporary setbacks.” He admits, “That’s over-simplification, though.” Finding a group of men he can feel a part of has validated him, making this unique man still feel like one of the guys.

Nelson categorizes the concentric circles of developing friendship as starting with a mutually agreeable acquaintance or contact, and then moving emotionally closer with someone that we find similarities with. Then the original bond can enter the confirmed friend category. A group of friends, like a longtime book club, can constitute a community. The highest level is the committed friend that has evolved into a trusted and valuable life companion.

Sarah Huntsman Reed, a medical counselor in Kansas City, Missouri, has such a lifelong friend. She met Doug Reed, now a pharmacist, when both were in their high school musical, Once Upon a Mattress. Reed had a great sense of humor, Sarah remembers. “He’s still the most honest yet kindest person I’ve met,” she says. Soon, their mothers became friends, too, and the two teens would pair up for family weddings. Then she went to college and married and he moved away; yet they stayed in touch through mutual friends and their moms, catching up in person when he returned to his hometown.

Seventeen years after they first met, by which time Sarah was divorced, the two discussed taking their friendship to the next level and soon married. “It was a big decision to commit, because we knew so much about each other,” she says. “But we prefer each other’s company, and it was the best thing we ever did.”

Safety Net In trying times, friends can surround us with positive energy, says Madisyn Taylor, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the spiritual blog DailyOm, in Ashland, Oregon. “The people we love form a protective barrier that buffers and shields us from many of the world’s

Hallmarks of good friendship include staying in touch and being consistently positive and vulnerable, so as we reveal ourselves over time, we can be authentic with each other.

more crippling blows,” including receiving hurtful slights from others.

How we make friends has been altered by today’s social landscape, which includes working parents and Amber Alerts. The days of children freely roaming their neighborhood discovering friends to play with are, unfortunately, over, says Jennifer S. White, a Toledo, Ohio, blogger and author of The Art of Parenting: Love Letters from a Mother.

“My long-term friendships from childhood were all built around being neighbors and playing together just because we wanted to,” recalls White.

With today’s safety concerns and work-life challenges, parents now set up playdates, a more structured, less organic way of fostering childhood friendships, and they must be proactive to ensure success.

White has some misgivings about this modern-day approach. “When I think about that one little gleaming seed of truth at the heart of why, it’s often because I don’t think it’s fair that I have to be a popular ‘playdate mom’ for my kid to have some friends.”

Besties and Buddies Automatic playdates—with siblings—often enhance family ties through lifelong friendships. Sally Ekus is a culinary talent representative in Florence, Massachusetts.

Her younger sister, Amelia, is the general manager of Twitter Cafe, in New York City, and lives in Brooklyn. Both foodies have knife-and-fork tattoos. Sally is more into meal ingredients and preparation, while Amelia loves pouring wine and making sure everyone is comfortable.

“Together,” says Sally, “we create total hospitality, from lavish Passover seders to Friday nights with friends.”

She notes that her sister is the only other person who understands what the world looks like through the Ekus girls’ perspective.

Some adults might never meet faceto-face, but become friends via social media. American Jamie Schler, co-owner of the Hotel Diderot, in Chinon, France, with her native-born husband, says, “Social media [especially Facebook posts] is how I meet and make personal friends and keep in touch on a daily basis. As an expat, this is important because I often feel far from family and friends

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Everyone from contemporary scientists to ancient philosophers agrees that having strong social bonds is probably the most meaningful contributor to happiness. ~Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project that understand me, share common interests and ideas and speak the same language—and I don’t necessarily mean English.” Her high-tech circle ranges from hometown pals to new friends in the food community and political forums. She raves, “It’s a place where I find them all at the same time!”

Nelson remarks, “No one is saying Facebook should replace visits, nights out and phone calls, but in a world where most of us wish we felt closer to

a few more people, it doesn’t hurt to use every tool at our disposal for creating connections.”

Differences in age needn’t be a hurdle in forging friendships. Candelaria Silva-Collins, an arts marketing professional in Boston, attended area social gatherings where she regularly encountered a museum director and his wife. “They seemed like a fantastic couple,” she says, and began a friendship with the older woman, despite their being from different generations.

“My friend teaches me a lot about being vital and vibrant,” she says.

Expanding Circles

How to Make Good Friends

by Shasta Nelson

Becoming friends with people of different ages, languages and social standing gives us a spiritual workout, advises Nelson.

With a master’s degree in divinity, Nelson views friendship as a type of health club in which we develop our empathy, forgiveness and compassion muscles through practice. “Friendships are the way we become better people,” she says.

Furthermore, the process, especially with people unlike us, leads to a better world. “Being able to inherently care for people we know makes it easier to do the same for people we’ve not met yet,” says Nelson. World peace happens one friend at a time.

Three Necessary Ingredients

Freelance writer Judith Fertig also blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot. com from Overland Park, KS.

It usually takes most people six to eight interactions with someone new before they start feeling like friends.

The sooner they schedule such occasions, the sooner the rewards. c Be open to making new friends. c Make the first move; repeat.

Both friendship and romantic bonds are developed when three things occur: We feel satisfied, which happens when an interaction has more positivity than negativity. We feel safe, which comes when we commit to consistent time with each other.

We feel seen, which we experience when we practice revealing ourselves and expressing vulnerability.

Here’s a formula for creating meaningful connections: Positivity + Consistency + Vulnerability = Frientimacy.

Two Steps

One Ratio

To keep a friendship going, remember that it has to have a positivity-to-negativity ratio of at least five-to-one. That means sharing five times more fun and feel-good moments than stressors that can range from disappointments and frustrations to jealousies. By definition, to be and keep a good friend requires that both parties bring satisfying positivity to the relationship.

Source: Adapted from Frientimacy: How to Deepen Friendships for Lifelong Intimacy by Shasta Nelson; scheduled for release in March.

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businessspotlight

Himalayan Institute of Buffalo Provides a Historic Retreat

by Brad Gower

I

n 1971, Swami Rama founded the Himalayan Institute to offer programs in self-transformation, yoga, meditation and holistic health, with its headquarters located in Honesdale, a small town outside Scranton with a current population of around 4,000. Three years later, Rama’s mission reached Buffalo by way of a small group of students working under his guidance.

Jackie Bogdan, director of the Buffalo center since 2013, has experience with both locations.

“My husband and I lived at the main center in Honesdale in the early 90s,” she recalls. “I began taking classes at the institute in Buffalo in 1992.” On her 21-year path to becoming director at the institute, Bogdan also served as creative director for Yoga International magazine, which transformed over time into its current incarnation, educational website YogaInternational.com.

Living and breathing yoga in this fashion is not uncommon at the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo. Passion for the mission is what keeps the nonprofit organization going, with more than 60 people regularly volunteering their time. This loyalty didn’t occur overnight, and according to Bogdan, it has taken years—and even centuries—to develop. “The Buffalo center has the benefit of longevity,” she explains. “We’ve been around for over 40 years, representing a long lineage of teachers rooted in a living tradition. For over a thousand years, the techniques that we teach have been practiced, tested and refined to best suit the needs of the students.”

While the history of the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo is rich, there’s also a steady influx of new faces to keep things fresh. “Most often, people come because they feel stressed, depleted and they’ve heard that yoga might be helpful to them,” says Bogdan. Sometimes, it’s the broader lifestyle appeal, as newcomers have a sense that there is a greater purpose to life which they have yet to fully discover, she says. Many

have stuck around for decades.

One aspect that keeps these customers coming back is a high level of service geared toward personal growth in every individual. A real person, not voicemail, will answer calls during business hours, ready to respond to questions. There’s a bookstore in the building, featuring books on yoga, Eastern philosophy, cooking, homeopathy and ayurveda. The Institute even offers private classes for small groups or individuals upon request.

In addition to current operations, Bogdan also credits the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo’s success to its former directors, Rolf and MaryGail Sovik, who now reside at the main campus in Honedale. “Their efforts have made the Buffalo center what it is today, and their sense of community is the heart and soul of our center,” she notes.

Bogdan enjoys seeing the impact that programs at the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo has on students, especially regular attendees. “Almost immediately, you see their expression change into something more relaxed and joyful. It’s as though they have arrived; they’ve come to a comfortable place where they can rest from the outward exchanges of life and reset their internal clock.” Witnessing moments like this is what drives Bogdan and her colleagues to continue developing new programs for the yoga instructors and yoga community.

Even though the list of offerings at the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo is extensive, their goal has always been to help visitors find a more calm, present and peaceful existence. Bogdan’s simple bit of advice for those looking to improve their health is, “Learn relaxed, diaphragmatic breathing, and the rest will fall into place!”

The Himalayan Institute of Buffalo is located at 841 Delaware Ave., in Buffalo. For more information, call 716-883-2223 or visit HIBuffalo.org. See ad, page 17. natural awakenings

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fitbody

Gliding Across Snowscapes

Cross-Country Ski to Explore Winter’s Wonders

by Randy Kambic

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hile downhill Alpine skiing offers spurts of intense action in-between times spent driving to and from resorts and standing in line at lifts, all that’s needed for Nordic cross-country skiing is a few inches of snow and strap-on skis to transform any nearby park, wooded trail or spacious backyard into a quiet, serene eco-play-

ground. The similar dry-land recreation of Nordic walking that uses poles can be enjoyed year-round.

Ski Season Techniques

Both the standard Nordic form of what’s also known as free-heel skiing and the more challenging Telemark style, able to incorporate hilly terrains, have northern

European roots. Cross-country skis are longer and thinner than downhill versions. Instead of placing the entire foot in a bulky, stiff boot affixed to an alpine ski, only the toe section of a sneakerlike boot adheres to a cross-country ski, enabling a fuller gliding motion.

Gliding over relatively flat terrain while leaning slightly forward, it’s important to keep weight evenly distributed over both skis. Continuously moving ahead in a left-right-left-right motion with a long gait creates a full-body workout as each opposing arm plants a pole and pushes on it to carry the skier into the next step.

Cross-country skis aren’t made for sudden stops, so stay alert; gentle, sideto-side skidding employing both legs or turning the front of both skis inward to form a triangle effects stopping. With experience, the skis can be used more like long ice skates, pushing both ahead and outward on them to move slightly faster on wide, groomed, flat surfaces.

Vermont native Bill Koch, the only American to win an Olympic crosscountry ski medal—silver at the 1976 Innsbruck Games—helped popularize the recreational sport in America. On February 20, the 2016 Slumberland American Birkebeiner, North America’s largest annual cross-country ski race, is expected to attract about 10,000 participants on a 55K course from Cable to Hayward, Wisconsin (Birkie.com).

Any Season Warm-ups

“Many of the movement patterns of Alpine and Nordic skiing are similar,” explains Michael Wood, chief fitness officer of Koko FitClub (KokoFitClub.com), which is reflected in a new eight-week Snow Sports program at many of its 130 locations in 30 states. “Our Smartraining equipment offers more than 100 different exercises, many of them ideal for preparing for cross-country skiing, like the squat, hip extension, and trunk and hip rotation.”

For post-ski stretching, he and club coaches often recommend yoga-type flows like downward dog, child pose and the one-legged pigeon move. “We like to customize programs to enhance dynamic stretching, intensive knee analysis and specific routines to improve individual performance,” says Wood.

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Winter Weight Loss

Outdoor winter recreation can help shed pounds. Harley Pasternak, a celebrity trainer, nutrition expert and author, recently reported in Health magazine, “Being outdoors in the cold air enables your body to burn more calories as it makes an effort to warm up. When you’re chilled, you shiver and shake, which is your body’s way of warming itself by increasing its resting metabolic rate.”

Pasternak says that spending time outdoors in cold weather can increase calories burned by as much as 30 percent and advises, “Take up ice skating, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.”

Anytime, Anywhere Walking

Nordic walking, launched in Finland in the late 1990s and since spread throughout Europe, incorporates some

motions similar to crosscountry skiing. Walking while using special poles on dry land or at the beach extends associated health and fitness benefits year-round. Initiated 11 years ago, the American Nordic Walking Association (anwa.us), based in Palisades, California, conducts classes and other events nationwide.

Founder, president and master coach Bernd Zimmerman reports significant growth in its popularity in recent years. “Both cross-country skiing and Nordic walking are great full-body workouts that use 90 percent of your muscles and treat both the upper and lower parts of the body like machines.”

Suitable for all ages, including those that have balance or health issues or can’t run anymore, the walking

poles act as extensions of the hands. Their rubber or metal tips work on any surface, such as streets, sidewalks, gravel, sand, dirt or grass. Compared to regular walking, Zimmerman says the Nordic style burns up to 40 percent more calories, tones the arms and upper body, reduces stress on knees and joints, and safely boosts the intensity of exercises to yield additional heart and lung benefits.

Ski and general sports equipment retailers that sell and rent equipment also host informative clinics. Check out local retailers for local ski club group outings.

Randy Kambic is an Estero, FL, freelance writer and editor, including for Natural Awakenings.

13 Great Stops on the Buffalo Nordic Ski Club Touring Schedule Allegany State Park, Salamanca Amherst State Park, Amherst Buckhorn Island State Park, Grand Island Bond Lake Park, Sanborn Byrncliff Resort, Varysburg Chestnut Ridge Park, Orchard Park Delaware Park, Buffalo Elma Meadows, Elma Evangola State Park, Irving Knox Farm State Park, East Aurora Letchworth State Park, Castile Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve, Depew Sprague Brook Park, Glenwood Buffalo Nordic Ski Club focuses on promoting cross-country skiing in the greater Buffalo area, providing exciting trips, weekly ski tours, ski lessons and more. For more information, visit BuffaloNordic.org.

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naturalpet

Bird-Watching for Beginners Start with a Bird Feeder and Binoculars

by Sandra Murphy

F

or those that love animals but can’t provide a home to a domestic pet, wild birds are just outside the window. Between 50 and 60 million Americans list bird-watching as a hobby. To start, all we need is a bird feeder.

For safety and comfort, position feeders near a tree or bush at least 15 feet from windows. Scott Logan, an Audubon Society board member in Sherman Oaks, California, cautions, “Birds stay alert for predators. An unmarked window looks like an escape route. They won’t see the glass.” Products like Window Alert, a decal that reflects ultraviolet rays birds see but humans don’t, can prevent a crash.

A book on local birds will describe the best food to attract them, whether residents or just passing through. Bluebirds love mealworms.

Hummingbirds like floral nectars and orioles prefer citrus flavors. Cardinals and jays dine on sunflower seeds.

Always provide unseasoned, unsalted seeds. In cold weather, also remember to hang homemade suet combining one part organic regular fat peanut butter with five parts organic, nonGMO (genetically modified) corn meal. Pour fresh water in the birdbath daily, change hummingbird nectar every three days and discard moldy seeds and old suet.

Feeding year-round doesn’t interfere with migration, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in Ithaca,

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New York. Migration, nest building, feeding a new family and staying warm in colder weather require substantial calories. “American goldfinches are social and will stay to eat,” adds Logan.

“Blue jays and titmouses are ‘grab-andgo’ birds.”

Join in the Fun

In Arlington, Texas, Cathy Stein, owner of EclecticDesignChoices.com, will participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count this year from February 12 to 15 (Audubon.org/content/about-greatbackyard-bird-count). “One easy resource for identifying birds is Merlin, the free app from Cornell Lab,” says Stein. “Take the bird’s picture, which is helpful in identifying details that can be overlooked or forgotten otherwise.”

Merlin works like facial recognition for birds, comparing eyes, beaks and tails to species in its database by location (Merlin.AllAboutBirds.org). Audubon’s free app includes birdcalls (Tinyurl. com/AudubonFreeBirdApp).

Jon Weber-Hahnsberg, a 12-yearold volunteer at the Dallas Zoo, and his seven-member team won last year’s statewide birding competition hosted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department by identifying 72 species in 12 hours.

“Now I’m hooked,” he says. “Outside the city, there are snowy egrets, waterfowl, hawks and owls to see.”

National wildlife refuges managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are suitable birding sites for both

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novices and pros. Here are some tips for beginners.

Focus on big, easy-to-see birds.

Sandhill crane tours are a hit in Mississippi and other Gulf Coast states (fws.gov/refuge/Mississippi_ Sandhill_Crane).

Concentrate on birds that travel in flocks. Common redhead ducks migrate in great numbers to the Texas coast each winter (Tinyurl.com/ LagunaAtascosaBirdlife).

Look for standouts, birds with characteristics that capture the imagination, like the speed of a peregrine falcon, large wingspan of a California condor or unusual color of Florida’s roseate spoonbills. (Visit fws.gov/refuge/ Cape_Meares and fws.gov/refuge/ JN_Ding_Darling.)

In Maine, see puffins at the only colony that allows visitors to go ashore for a close-up look (MaineBirdingTrail. com/MachiasSealIsland.htm). Not a

I think the most important quality in a birdwatcher is a willingness to stand quietly and see what comes. Some people are very competitive in their birding. Maybe they’ll die happy, having seen a thousand species… but I’ll die happy knowing I’ve spent all that quiet time being present. ~Lynn Thomson, Birding with Yeats: A Memoir

refuge, ownership of the island has been disputed for two centuries.

Ten Great Birding Locations in Western New York “These 10 areas cover diverse habitats and many species of birds can be seen throughout the year at each spot,” says Tom Kerr, naturalist at the Buffalo Audubon Society.

Incredible Hobby

“Keeping a life list of birds you’ve seen, when and where, is not only fun,” says Nate Swick, author of the recent Birding for the Curious, in Greensboro, North Carolina. “It brings back memories of a time and place. Birding takes you places you wouldn’t think of. I’ve bird-watched in local landfills, as well as in India and Central America.” A particularly impressive sight was a shearwater, found 30 to 40 miles into the Atlantic Ocean off the North Carolina coast, a species that only comes to land during breeding season.

“Each bird has an incredible story,” he says. “Migrating birds that arrive exhausted and hungry after flying hundreds of miles will often look for local birds like chickadees that act as the welcome wagon, showing where food, water and a safe rest area can be found.”

Erika Zar, a catalog copywriter in Madison, Wisconsin, happened upon the nearby Horicon Marsh Bird Festival (HoriconMarshBirdClub.com/for-visitors). “Everyone seemed so meditative, hiking in quiet groups. It was peaceful,” she says. “Listing the birds they saw on checklists was like a scavenger hunt for adults.”

Zar immediately bought binoculars, but soon traded them for a better pair. “Bird-watching opened my eyes to a new world right in front of me,” she says joyfully. “I’d just never looked or listened closely enough before.”

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Fine Feathered Facts What to do with a stranded baby bird: Tinyurl.com/OrphanedBabyBirds Comparing bird and human vision: WindowAlert.com/bird-vision Find wildlife refuges by state: fws.gov/refuges Live bird cams: Cams.AllAboutBirds.org

n Amherst State Park, Amherst n Beaver Meadow Audubon Center, North Java n Buckhorn Island State Park, Grand Island n Delaware Park (Rumsey Woods), Buffalo n Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo

n Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Basom n Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls n Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve, Cheektowaga n Tifft Nature Preserve, Buffalo n Unity Island, Buffalo

The Buffalo Audubon Society promotes the appreciation and enjoyment of the natural world through education and stewardship with a focus on Western New York and the Great Lakes region. For more information, visit BuffaloAudubon.org.

Going to the Birds

by Sandra Murphy

C

hris Santella, author of Fifty Places to Go Birding Before You Die, offers these top sighting spots.

add scores of species to your list in one day.”

n Pointe Reyes National Seashore, California, is on a migration route between Alaska and Mexico and renowned as a resting spot for upwards of 500 species. n Tucson, Arizona, welcomes hummingbirds and exotics like the brilliantly plumed elegant trogon from the tropics. n High Island and Galveston, Texas, are the first stop for birds crossing the Gulf of Mexico. n Cape May, New Jersey, hosts shorebirds year round plus it’s en route to Canada. n Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, in Chatham, Massachusetts, yields sightings of shorebirds such as plover, sandpipers and terns. n Prairie Pothole Region stretching from Iowa to Minnesota, Montana and the Dakotas is especially good for watching waterfowl. n Cleveland, Ohio, near Lake Erie, celebrates hundreds of species flying to Canada in May. “It’s great for anybody with a life list,” says Santella. “You can

In the fall, raptors migrate and BirdsAndBlooms.com lists some of the best spots to watch hawks. n Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, in Kempton, Pennsylvania n Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, in Sausalito, California n Hazel Bazemore County Park, in Corpus Christi, Texas n Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, in Duluth, Minnesota n Florida Keys Hawkwatch, Curry Hammock State Park, in Marathon, Florida n Cape May Hawk Watch, Cape May Point State Park, in New Jersey.

As rivers freeze over, eagles migrate south to follow the food supply, often near dams where fish gather. During the spring thaw, they return north to nest. Prime Wisconsin eagle watching sites include Lake Pepin, Necedah Wildlife Refuge, La Crosse, Prairie du Sac refuge, Sauk City and Wyalusing State Park. Alton, Illinois, is also along the Mississippi Flyway for eagles.

Florida eagles tend to stay year-round.

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February 2016

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wisewords

Alyssa Milano’s Anti-Aging Secrets Her Natural Lifestyle Choices Keep Her Young

by Gerry Strauss

A

lyssa Milano has grown up, and most of us have grown up with her. From her days as preteen tomboy Samantha Miceli on Who’s the Boss? to witchy woman Phoebe Halliwell on Charmed, the actress has been a vibrant, relatable and beautiful persona we’ve come to know via television. She was even named a UNICEF ambassador in 2004. Today, with a young family, her Touch licensed sports apparel line, and the wisdom that accompanies adulthood, her commitment to a natural, ecofriendly lifestyle has become another hallmark of her life.

What connection do you see between eating organic foods and maintaining the energy level that your busy life requires?

I think everything that you put into your body has a connection to how well we function in daily life. As a mom of two, eating organic is a priority; when organic is not an option, it’s about finding the healthiest accessible choices.

I eat tomatoes like other people eat fruit and love papaya. I would put avocado on anything. I also like to cook with healthful herbs and spices like garlic and onions, which is natural for an Italian like me. We keep genetically modified foods out of our house.

Which fitness habits embodied by others have you made your own?

In my Who’s the Boss? days, Tony Danza and Judith Light were always active 24

Buffalo, NY

and athletic. Tony would bring in a tap dance teacher and Judith a private trainer during lunch breaks. Being tutored on the set, I had no physical education classes or sports activities, so it was super-important for me to see how self-motivated they were to stay fit and in shape. Their example instilled a desire to take care of myself as an adult.

What role does nature play in your daily life?

I love being outside in my organic garden three or more times a week.

Also, the kids and I regularly head outside, which is an easy place to keep them happily and healthfully occupied without my having to jump through hoops.

As an advocate of breastfeeding, which benefits do you think are especially good for mother and child?

In the beginning, a primary benefit is giving your child quality nourishment, including healthy antibodies and other goodies to support health. As they start eating solids, it’s still about maintaining that intimate connection until they’re ready to be weaned and you’re ready to surrender this last physical bond.

moment, doing the best I can every day. I’ve also learned to be kind to myself when I’m failing to do so or something is annoying me due to some unfortunate imbalance.

How do you and your husband keep both your friendship and love vibrant?

We work hard at maintaining a good and healthy marriage, which can be tested in tough times. I believe that it’s vital to have the ability to laugh; you have to find humor in things, reminding yourself and each other that there is something funny in every daily activity, no matter how mundane or hard. When there’s no time to eat together or be intimate, shared laughter is an easy thing to achieve together. Done daily, it can only make the marriage stronger.

We enjoy date nights once or twice a week when my parents take care of the kids. I’ll put on mascara and change out of yoga pants, even if we’re just hanging out together.

Then we do little things like asking how each other’s day went and caring about the answer. We also look for ways we can help each other throughout the week.

What actions does your family emphasize in being stewards of the Earth?

We try to be as eco-friendly as possible, including having lights on timers, conserving water and being kind to animals. I cannot stress how important it is to visit a farm and organic gardens and orchards with children so that they see where their food comes from. We can’t take good food for granted.

In addition to a naturally healthy lifestyle, what else do you credit for your enduring youthfulness?

How do you balance family life with your acting career?

My secret is happiness. I’ve always said that as long as my laugh lines are deeper than my frown lines, I’m living a good life.

It’s a hard balance for anyone, especially one who’s detail-oriented and a bit of a perfectionist, like me. The most important thing is to be in the

Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.

BuffaloAwakenings.com

calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines for submissions at BuffaloAwakenings.com or email Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings.com for more information.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Improve and Maintain Breast Health – 6:157:15pm. A presentation by Kristeena Kingsley, CMM, CPM, on how to specifically reduce your risk for breast disease and maintain healthy breasts. Free. Inner Balance Chiropractic, 2800 Sweet Home Rd, Ste 1, Amherst. 716-210-1060. InnerBalanceChiro.com.

What You Should Know About GMOs in the Food Supply – 7pm. Audubon Library Holistic Lecture Series. Eveline Hartz, a retired RN and certified Holistic Health Coach will lead a discussion of the issues involved with this topic. Free. Audubon Library, 350 John James Audubon Pkwy, Amherst.

716-689-4922.

everyone. Art classes and certain tours are available to the public for a fee. Free. Albright-Knox Art Gallery, 1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo. 716-882-8700.

AlbrightKnox.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Mexican Brunch – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Laura Anhalt. Warm, spicy tastes and enticing aromas evoke Mexico’s rich cultural tradition. Experience Mexican cuisine, cooking techniques and the lore of the region. $35. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg. 716-648-3400. BeHealthyInstitute.com.

Deepening Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Donna will vitalize your meditation practice by deepening your personal experience of mindfulness and concentration. Prerequiste: Beginning Meditation course. $48.

Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo.

716-882-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

Eat, Paint, Love – Heart Connection – 6-9pm.

A creatively inspired night of artistry, food and insights. Artist and art therapist, Kate McCarthy will lead a fun and transformative journey. $50. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg. 716-6483400. BeHealthyInstitute.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Healthy Cooking – 6:30-8pm. With Chef Jessica.

A three-week course on Thursdays thru Feb 18.

Cooking and recipes are plant-based and gluten free.

Classes will be hands-on. Learn, participate and eat. $150/person. Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine, 100 College Pkwy, Ste 100, Williamsville. Register: Buff Spine.com/calendar.

Winter Introduction to Yoga II – 6-7pm. This five-week course continues thru Mar 8 and builds on postures and breathing techniques learned in Intro to Yoga I class which is suggested to be completed before attending this course. $50. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg. 716-648-3400.

BeHealthyInstitute.com.

Spiritual Study and Practice Group for Women – 7-8:30pm. Continuation of a year-long study of Meditation for the Love of It, Enjoying Your Own Deepest Experience, by Sally Kempton. The book is available in the bookstore. Chapter 2, “How Do We Experience the Inner Self” will be discussed at this second meeting. $5. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-882-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

Valentine’s Day Dinner – 6:30-9pm. Chef Krista Van Wagner will showcase a lovely, healthy dinner for two demonstrating the techniques to reproduce this complex meal at home. $79. Complete Wellness Arts and Science Center, 1515 Kensington Ave, Buffalo. CompleteWellnessWNY.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Gentle Restorative Yoga – 9-10am. Six-week class on Wednesdays thru Mar 16. These weekly sessions are for those seeking benefits of a relaxing, gentle, restorative practice. Specifically designed to reduce pain, anxiety, tension and/or stress. $90. Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine, 100 College Pkwy, Ste 100, Williamsville. Register: Buff Spine.com/calendar.

M & T First Fridays at the Gallery – 10am-10pm.

On the first Friday of every month admission to part of the museum and select events are free to

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12 M & T Second Fridays at The Burchfield Penney – 10am-8pm. Every second Friday, the Burchfield Penney hosts special events, happy hours, programs, concerts and screenings. Free. Burchfield Penney Art Center, 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo. 716-878-6011.

BurchfieldPenney.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Breath Work – 10-11am. Life Coach/Meditation Trainer, Shawn Marie Cichowski will explore various breathing techniques and mind easing practices to promote optimal well-being. $25. WNY Life Coaching Center, 5500 Main St, Williamsville.

RSVP: 716-560-6552 or WNYLifeCoaching@ gmail.com. WNYLifeCoaching.com.

personal boundaries. $20. WNY Life Coaching Center, 5500 Main St, Williamsville. RSVP: 716560-6552 or WNYLifeCoaching@gmail.com.

WNYLifeCoaching.com.

Holistic Care for Pets – 7pm. Audubon Library Holistic Lecture Series. Susi Rosinski, a Certified Massage Therapist for canines, felines and equines and a Karuna Reiki Master for animals will speak about energy healing with a variety of animals as well as teaching some simple techniques to use daily to help our animal friends. Free. Audubon Library, 350 John James Audubon Pkwy, Amherst.

716-689-4922.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Setting Personal Boundaries Class – 6:30-8pm.

Learning to set boundaries can transform your relationships and your life. Life Coach Shawn Marie Cichowski will explore how to set and maintain

Cinema and Soup Saturday Part II – 9:30am12pm. Enjoy an inspiring film followed by soup and discussion. Each film in this four-part series reflects yoga philosophy. Watch The Hundred Foot Journey in which a feud between adjacent restaurants is resolved when all involved engage in the yoga principle “involve everyone, exclude no one”. $10. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-882-2223. Film schedule: HIBuffalo.org/seminars.

Heart & Soul 5K – 10am. Third annual run to benefit The Morlock Foundation. Walkers welcome. Day of run registration opens at 8am. $30.

Historic Larkin District, Larkin Center of Commerce, 701 Seneca St, Buffalo. 716-440-7507. ecollora@roadrunner.com. Online registration: JoeLangFoundation.com.

One Day Mindfulness Experience – 10am-2pm.

Discover the power of now with this one day retreat.

Suitable for beginners as well as experienced mindfulness and meditation practitioners. Dress comfortably. Free tea, coffee and juice. $25. 484 Connecticut St, Buffalo. 716-259-2994. MindGardens.net.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Reiki, Meditation and Breath Work Fusion – 7-8pm. Certified Meditation/Life Coach and Reiki Master, Shawn Marie Cichowski will guide attendees through an hour of mindful breath work, visual meditation and optional Reiki. $15. WNY Life Coaching Center, 5500 Main St, Williamsville.

RSVP required: 716-560-6552 or WNYLifeCoaching@gmail.com. WNYLifeCoaching.com.

Total Body Analysis Using Kinesiology – 7pm.

Audubon Library Holistic Lecture Series. DebraAnn Lattuca, certified Total Body Analysis Practitioner and Kinesiologist, will discuss this approach to health and healing, allowing a trained practitioner to find the cause of the problem and make a cus-

WE STILL ON? Call ahead to confirm that the event details haven’t changed and tell them you saw it in Buffalo Natural Awakenings.

natural awakenings

February 2016

25

tom antidote to correct that cause. Free. Audubon Library, 350 John James Audubon Pkwy, Amherst.

716-689-4922.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 M & T Third Friday – 10am-5pm. M &T Bank sponsors free admission to this historic Western New York cultural institution. Free. The Buffalo History Museum, One Museum Ct, Buffalo. 716-873-9644.

BuffaloHistory.org.

Complimentary Introduction to Mindfulness – 6pm. Learn what Mindgardens has to offer.

Free. 484 Connecticut St, Buffalo. 716-259-2994.

MindGardens.net.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Household Homeopathy – A Primer in Homeopathic Remedies for Acute Conditions – 9:30am-12:30pm.

Eight sessions on Saturdays thru April 9 led by Arup Bhattacharya, PhD. Learn how to use homeopathy safely and effectively to keep yourself and your family healthy through life’s journey. Skpe option for those who can’t attend. $224. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-882-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

Yoga with Essential Oils: Open Your Heart – 1011:30am. Make the connection with a combination of oils and yoga poses that cultivate an open heart and a quiet mind. $25. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg. 716-648-3400. BeHealthyInstitute.com.

Snowshoeing and Cocoa – 10am-noon. Borrow a pair of our snowshoes and join State Parks naturalists for a trek thru Delaware Park finishing at the Darwin Martin House with a cup of hot cocoa.

Participants have option of taking a one hour family tour of Martin House. Snowshoeing and cocoa/ free; tour: $8/person. Marcy Casino, Lincoln Pkwy, Buffalo. Register: NYS Parks: 716-549-1050.

DarwinMartinHouse.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Feng Shui Chinese New Year: Night of the Lantern Festival – 6:30-8:30pm. Join Certified Feng Shui Practitioner, Linda Ellison on this auspicious evening to learn about the 2016 Year of the Fire

Monkey and how the New Year’s annual energy shift will affect your space. $29 by 2/15, $36/thereafter/at the door. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg.

716-648-3400. BeHealthyInstitute.com.

and Science Center, 1515 Kensington Ave, Buffalo.

CompleteWellnessWNY.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Workshop: Soothing Inner Life through Meditation, Mindfulness and Mantra – 9:30am-noon & 1:30-3:30pm. Rolf Sovik, PsyD leads this workshop focused on meditation methods to awaken joy and explore the riches of inner life and the science of mantra with practice and discussion of general mantra. $75 or $45/session. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-8822223. HIBuffalo.org.

Holistic Parenting – 7pm. Audubon Library Holistic Lecture Series. Kristen MacNeil, a mother and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a background in school psychology, will present a holistic approach to parenting involving an awareness of how our choices and actions are interconnected and how they impact health, well-being and environment.

Free. Audubon Library, 350 John James Audubon Pkwy, Amherst. 716-689-4922.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Essential Oils and Natural Approaches to Well Being – 6:30-8pm. Create your own therapeutic body scrub and be introduced to the wonderful benefits of essential oils and how to apply them in order to have a greater awareness of your physical, mental and spiritual needs. $25. WNY Life Coaching Center, 5500 Main St, Williamsville. RSVP required: 716-560-6552 or WNYLifeCoaching@ gmail.com. WNYLifeCoaching.com Satsang: Pillars of Happiness – 7-8:30pm. Rolf Sovik, PsyD leads an evening devoted to satsang, the company of inspired aspirants. Bring your thoughts and questions on yoga and meditation. Donations welcomed and all proceeds go toward H I Humanitarian Projects. Free. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-882-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 M & T Fourth Fridays at Tri-Main Center – 11am-8pm. The Buffalo Arts Center opens the gallery and gift shop to the public for extended hours. Buffalo Arts Center, Tri-Main Center, 2495 Main St, Ste 500, Buffalo. 716-833-4450.

BuffaloArtsStudio.org.

Feel the Power, Knife Skills – 6:30-9pm. Learn how to properly, skillfully and safely slice, dice, julienne and more. $49. Complete Wellness Arts

Produce the Right Balance

Weigh the advertising choices that Natural Awakenings offers.

Display your products and services in our

March Food Matters Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call 716-909-7805 26

Buffalo, NY

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29 Introduction to Holistic Health and Homeopathy – 6-8pm. Arup Bhattacharya, PhD presents a four-part lecture series on Mondays thru Mar 21.

This seminar will provide an overview of the natural remedies offered through homeopathy: what it is, how it works and the history of its use. $99 or $30/ class. Be Healthy Institute, 40 Main St, Hamburg.

716-648-3400. BeHealthyInstitute.com.

AWAKE: The Life of Yogananda – 7pm. An exclusive presentation of the documentary AWAKE, a biography about the Hindu swami who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s. $6(Paypal) or $10 at door. The Screening Room Cinema and Café, 3131 Sheridan Dr, Amherst. RipWayne.com.

plan ahead SATURDAY, AUGUST 14

savethedate SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 Fifth Annual Holistic Health Expo – 11am4pm. Marcy Casino, Delaware Park, Buffalo.

Jill O’Hara: 716-425-2996.

ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines for submissions at BuffaloAwakenings.com or email Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings.com for more information.

tuesday North Tonawanda Farmers’ Market – 7am-1pm.

Payne Ave at Robinson St, North Tonawanda. 716830-6025.

wednesday Qigong – 6:30-7:30pm. Open class. No reservations required. Participate in a single session or continue with multiple meetings. $15. 22 Lafayette Blvd, Williamsville. 716-622-6332. DonaldWScott.com.

Yoga Reset – 6:30-7:45pm. A gentle practice suitable for all levels of students. $15/class, $48/four classes. Clarence Hollow Wellness Center, 10946 Main St, Clarence. 716-310-3858. RichardJasonBruke.com.

Meditation – 7-7:45pm. A serene atmosphere to relax the mind. All levels welcome. Donation.

Udumbara Yoga, 400 Plain St, Lewiston. UdumbaraYoga.com.

thursday North Tonawanda Farmers’ Market – 7am-1pm.

Payne Ave at Robinson St, North Tonawanda. 716830-6025.

Drop-in Yoga Class – 5:30-6:30pm. Beginner level. $10. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-883-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

Qigong – 7-8pm. With Jim Davis. Qigong practitioners utilize breath, posture, and movement to foster prevention of an energetic imbalance in the body and to promote well-being. $10/class or $32/ four classes. Complete Wellness Arts and Science Center, 1515 Kensington Ave, Buffalo. 716-3523723. JDavis0111@verizon.net.

saturday North Tonawanda Farmers’ Market – 7am-1pm.

Payne Ave at Robinson St, North Tonawanda. 716830-6025.

Clinton-Bailey Farmers’ Market – 7am-6pm.

1517 Clinton St, Buffalo. 716-822-2466. ClintonBaileyFarmersMarket.com.

Drop-in Yoga Class – 9:30-11am. Intermediate level. $12. Himalayan Institute, 841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo. 716-883-2223. HIBuffalo.org.

Elmwood Village Farmers’ Market – 10am2pm. This winter market features 15-20 vendors along with food trucks. A producer-only market; all vendors grow or produce what they sell to create a diverse and healthy local economy.

Buffalo State College, Buckham Hall, Rockwell Rd near Grant St, Buffalo. 716-881-0707.

ElmwoodVillage.org.

Market at Horsefeathers-Winter Market – 10am2pm. This market features more than 15 diverse vendors. Come by for brunch, fresh produce and great gifts or snacks. Market at Horsefeathers, 346 Connecticut St, Buffalo. Buffalofts.com.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $20 for the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word. To place an ad, email Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings. com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

CLASSES AVATAR SELF DISCOVERY SESSION – We know we should forgive, but, has anyone ever taught you how to forgive? Start the New Year with a four-step forgiveness exercise from the Avatar course. For a free session, call Tia Greno: 716-633-0715.

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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@BuffaloAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE SHENDAO ACUPUNCTURE B.Schamberger, LAc 334 Bryant St, Buffalo 716-883-3166

Now offering a special, anti-stress treatment which rebalances energy; resulting in a calmer mind, healthier glow to facial skin and brightening of the eyes.

CHIROPRACTIC INNER BALANCE CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Alison Bramer Cummings & Dr. Tammy Bialek-Lehrer 2800 Sweet Home Rd, Ste 1, Amherst 716-210-1060 • InnerBalanceChiro.com

Gentle adjustments; no cracking, snapping or bending. Treating neck, back, shoulder pain, headaches, scoliosis, migraines, vertigo, digestive issues, behavior issues, sports injuries, carpal tunnel, TMJ and more. See ad, page 21.

CLEANING SERVICES – NATURAL SIMPLY KLEAN

Jill O’Hara, Owner 716-425-2996

CONTEMPORARY DENTISTRY

Dr. Arlene Messer & Dr. Anna Belous 2052 S Clinton Ave, Rochester 585-244-3337 • DentistryWithAHeart.com At Contemporary Dentistry, we care about your total health, offering an individualized approach for cavity prevention, including saliva testing, biocompatible materials, safe mercury-filling removal, laser and minimally invasive dentistry. See ad, page 18.

FITNESS CITY OF LIGHT FITNESS

Jared Callahan, Owner, Fitness Trainer 716-866-3747 Info@CityOfLightFitness.com CityOfLightFitness.com Jared has developed a lifestyle approach to fitness and healthy living, integrating outdoor wateroriented sports like Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) with a structured strength and conditioning program. Call for a fun and unique style of fitness training.

HEALTHY DINING 700 CENTER ST – JUICE BISTRO & CAFÉ 700 Center St, Lewiston 716-429-5466 • 700CenterStreet.com

Professional cleaning service and solutions. All natural and chemical free. No toxins or harmful odors.

If you need a deep, thorough cleaning or a weekly clean we can do it. Call Jill for a quote. See ad, page 7.

DENTISTRY AESTHETIC ASSOCIATES CENTRE Dr. Todd Shatkin 2500 Kensington Ave, Ste A, Amherst 716-839-1700 • GR8Look.com ShatkinDentalOffice@gmail.com

Offering complete restorative and cosmetic dental care for adults and children. Includes bonding, veneers, bleaching, crown and bridge, dental implantology (all stages), mini dental implants and general dental care. See ad, back cover.

Serving a wonderful selection of natural and organic foods.

Vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options. Healthy smoothies, organic coffee, wheatgrass shots, wraps, paninis, baked goods and granola made in house. A must visit in historic Lewiston. See ad, page 21.

MANGIA CAFÉ

621 Center St, Lewiston 716-754-1517 Naturally good food. Glutenfree and vegetarian options.

Breakfast served all day and lunch; 8am-2pm. In the heart of beautiful, historic Lewiston.

See ad, page 5.

Being listened to is so close to being loved that most people cannot tell the difference. ~David Augsberg

HOLISTIC CENTER HIMALAYAN INSTITUTE

841 Delaware Ave, Buffalo 716-883-2223 • HIBuffalo.org Buffalo’s Center for yoga, meditation and wellness. Yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga teacher certification, CEU’s for yoga instructors, bookstore and gift shop. Reconnect with your body, relax the mind and rejuvenate your spirit. See ad, page 17.

HOMEOPATHIC HEALERS HOMEOPATHIC HEALERS 156 Ramsdell Ave, Buffalo 716-310-3789 Arup_2000@yahoo.com HomeopathicHealers.com

Where healing is a way of life.

Arup Bhattacharya, PhD, is a Homeopath educator, practitioner and a research faculty at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Make an appointment or join one of the courses. See ad, page 7.

LIFE COACH WNY LIFE COACHING CENTER – LIFE COACH

Shawn Marie Cichowski, Owner, Certified Life/Soul Coach 5500 Main St, Ste 313, Williamsville 716-560-6552 • WNYLifeCoaching.com Helping you help yourself naturally, healing from the inside out. Offering life products: Himalayan salt lamps and items, essential oils, yoga, spa, meditation and wellness items. See ad, page 20.

MINDFULNESS MINDGARDENS

484 Connecticut St, Buffalo 716-259-2994 • Mindgardens.net Cultivating transformation. Find a better direction in life. New lifechanging groups forming regularly.

Free introduction to Mindgardens services on Friday, February 19 at 6pm. See ad, page 12.

NUTRITION SMART NUTRITION BY FRANK

Frank Giardina, RDN, CDN 5500 Main St, Ste 344, Williamsville 716-220-2342 Frank@SmartNutritionByFrank.com SmartNutritionByFrank.com Offering no nonsense, sciencebased medical nutrition support for patients looking to achieve better control of blood glucose, lipid levels, blood pressure as well as improved body composition and athletic performance. Covered by most insurances.

We make house calls too! See ad, page 6.

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ORGANIC FARM PRODUCTS ALPINE MADE LLC

Kerry Beiter, Owner 5363 East Creek Rd, S Wales 716-430-9928 • AlpineMade.com Our certified organic goat farm is located in WNY and centered on pasture raising a small herd of Alpine goats using sustainable and organic farming practices. We craft the finest skincare products with our raw organic goat milk.

Visit our website or like us on Facebook for additional information.

PHYSICIANS

SELF DEVELOPMENT

BUFFALO SPINE & SPORTS MEDICINE

DESIGN FOR LIVING – THE AVATAR COURSE

100 College Pkwy, Ste 100, Williamsville 200 Sterling Dr, Ste 200, Orchard Park 6000 Brockton Dr, Ste 109, Lockport 716-626-0093 • BuffSpine.com

One of the largest and most established physical medicine and rehabilitation practices in Western New York.

Non-surgical rehabilitation and therapy for acute injuries and chronic conditions. Holistic care focusing on patients’ functions. Take back your lifestyle! See ad, page 7.

ORGANIC SPA

REIKI

GREEN SPA VILLAGE HOLISTICS

ANCIENT FAR EAST HEALING ARTS

Joei Marie Lucey, RN, Green Spa Owner 5526 Main St, Williamsville 716-635-6482 • GreenSpaHolistics.com

Susi Rosinski 3110 Eggert Rd, Tonawanda 716-803-0113 • ReikiBySusi.com

Organic holistic spa focusing on health and wellness. Pamper your body, mind and spirit. Spa services include massage, facials, body treatments, energy balancing, life coaching, craniosacral, reflexology, Emotional Freedom Technique, hypnosis, aromatherapeutic touch and more.

PETS ANCIENT FAR EAST HEALING ARTS FOR ANIMALS

Medical qigong/therapeutic tai chi, Karuna Reiki, meditation. Relief from pain, anxiety, depression.

Speeds healing of injuries and surgery. Boosts immune system and more. See ad, page 20.

PILATES STRETCH PILATES

What is the greatest personal achievement? It is not any form of material wealth, quality of fame or degree of power. What then? The greatest personal achievement is peace of mind. Contact Tia for a free introduction to Avatar. See ad, page 14.

EMERGING VIBRANT WOMEN EMPOWER AND AWAKEN YOUR FEMININE SOUL

Kohava Howard, LPN, LYYD, Reiki Master, Holistic Life Coach • E Amherst 970-208-2503 • KohavaHoward.com Intuitive, holistic, health and wellness life coaching for women over 40 that are experiencing major life transitions. Reclaim your vibrant inner joy and feminine power to live your authentic life. Private sessions, workshops, Skype or phone.

GOOD VIBES HEALING

Debra Espe, Reiki Master, BioGenesis Practitioner, Herbal Consultant West Seneca • East Aurora 716-220-8907 • HolisticAndHealthyU.com A holistic approach that addresses your individual needs. By using energy techniques such as Reiki and BioGenesis combined with herbal and essential oils, we’ll work together to help you achieve a sense of well-being and optimal health.

Susi Rosinski 3110 Eggert Rd, Tonawanda 716-803-0113 • ReikiBySusi.com

Energy medicine, medical qigong, acupressure, Karuna Reiki and chi’atsu. Relief from stress, anxiety, behavioral issues, arthritis, immune deficiency, speeds healing of injuries, surgery and more. See ad, page 13.

Tia Greno 716-633-0715 • TiaG12345@gmail.com

SKIN CARE AESTHETIC ASSOCIATES CENTRE Dr. Sam Shatkin 2500 Kensington Ave, Amherst 716-839-1700 • GR8Look.com

Achieve natural rejuvenation with surgical and non-surgical services in the fields of plastic surgery and advanced skin care. Dr. Shatkin and his team of health professionals help clients look and feel better about themselves.

See ad, back cover.

WNY LIFE COACHING CENTER – REIKI

Shawn Marie Cichowski, Owner, Reiki Master 5500 Main St, Ste 313, Williamsville 716-560-6552 • WNYLifeCoaching.com

1127 Wehrle Dr, Williamsville 716-626-7484 StretchWNY@gmail.com • StretchWNY.com A Pilates studio offering private and small group sessions focusing on stretching, strength posture a n d c o r e t r a i n i n g . Vi s i t Facebook, Instagram and the Pilates and fitness blog online. See ad, page 5.

Helping you help yourself naturally, healing from the inside out. Reiki master and certified meditation instructor. Self-care and stress management trainer. See ad, page 20.

SPA TRES AURAE SPA

5195 Main St, Williamsville 716-478-7546 SpaBuffalo.com Tres Aurae Spa offers a calm setting for all your spa needs.

Services include their Best of Buffalo natural, seaweed-based facials, therapeutic massage, hair blowouts and styling, hair removal, and manicures and pedicures. Relax and enjoy spa services for individuals and groups in this award-winning facility.

How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. ~Anne Frank 30

Buffalo, NY

BuffaloAwakenings.com

SPECIALTY MARKET THE NATURAL LINK

Specialty Meat Market 105 Portage Rd, Lewiston • 716-754-1199 Facebook.com/TheNaturalLink

FOOD CHOICES

Free-range chicken, wildcaught fresh seafood, Boar’s Head deli meats, Angus Reserve beef, local honey, maple syrup, farm-fresh eggs, goats and cows milk. Excellent service and friendly owners (Brian and Cathy). See ad, page 10.

THERMAL IMAGING DYNAMIC THERMAL IMAGING Carol Knapp, CCT, office manager 585-734-6083 NYDTI.com

Provides radiation-free, noninvasive clinical imaging for detecting and monitoring overall health as well as a number of diseases and injuries. Totally safe, FDA-approved and available to women, men and children. Take responsibility for your own health and be proactive with Dynamic Thermal Imaging.

See ad, page 8.

WELLNESS CENTER BEHEALTHY INSTITUTE

Jill Chiacchia, Founder and Director 40 Main St, Hamburg 716-648-3400 BeHealthyInstitute.com Healthy cooking classes, fitness classes, health coaching, wellness resources and living well seminars. Come see how easy healthy is. Like us on Facebook.com/BeHealthyInstitute.com. See ad, page 7.

WINE – ORGANIC ADDY’S FINE WINE AND SPIRITS 8584 Transit Rd, E Amherst 716-810-9495

Our friendly, warm staff, great wine and free weekly tastings will make you want to keep coming back. Large selection of organic wines. Check us out on Facebook.

LEXI’S FINE WINE AND SPIRITS 55 Crosspoint Pkwy, Getzville 716-689-2233

Our friendly, warm staff, great wine and free weekly tastings will make you want to keep coming back. Large selection of organic wines. Check us out on Facebook.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE You can help change the way America eats Cultivate a healthy business by advertising in Natural Awakenings’

March Food Matters Issue Help Conscientious Consumers Seeking Goods & Services Such As: • Agrihoods • Community Supported Agriculture Groups • Cooking Schools/Classes • Co-op Marketers • Dietitians & Nutritionists • Earth-Friendly Landscapers • “Eat Local” Chefs & Cooks • Energy-Saving Technologies • Food Banks • Garden Supplies

• Gardeners & Farmers • Green/Vegan Restaurants • Health Food Stores • Herbalists • Homeopathy • Integrative Physicians • Natural Supplements • Organic Food/Farmers’ Markets • Plant-Care Specialists ... and this is just a partial list

Contact us at:

716-909-7805 natural awakenings

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