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May 2013 | Western Mass Edition | NAWestMA.com natural awakenings
May 2013
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contents 5 newsbriefs 7 actionalert
8 10
8 event
spotlight
8 healthbriefs 10 globalbriefs 1 1 community spotlight
15 business
12
spotlight
24 greenliving 26 healingways 27 calendar 30 resourceguide
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 413-234-0024 or email Publisher@NAWestMA.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NAWestMA.com. Deadline for editorial: feature articles are due by the 5th of the month, news briefs and health briefs are due by the 10th. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events online at NAWestMA.com within the advertising section. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
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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 TEEN DRAMA QUEENS
14
Keeping the Mother-Daughter Bond Strong by Meredith Montgomery
14 A PASSION
FOR PEDALING
Hop on a Bike and Go Lean and Green by Debra Melani
15 MORE THAN YOUR AVERAGE YMCA
Urban Bike Shop and Teaching Kitchen Keep Holyoke Healthy
16
by Nancy Somera
16 Natural Awakenings’
BODYWORK GUIDE
21 ACUPUNCTURE A Natural Way to Support Fertility
24
by Kindreth Hamilton
22 OUTDOOR OPTIONS
FOR FELINE FRIENDS
Safe Ways to Let Them Explore by Sandra Murphy
23 LISTENING TO
INNER WISDOM
5 Instincts To Heed by Dr. Judith Orloff
24 CLUTTER-TAMING TIPS
26
Save Time, Money and Sanity by April Thompson
26 SPRING DETOX
Gentle Natural Cleansing Works Best by Linda Sechrist
natural awakenings
May 2013
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letterfrompublisher
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contact us Publisher Carrie Kennedy Advertising Sales Carrie: 413-234-0024 Editorial Linda Sechrist Design & Production C. Michele Rose Stephen Blancett Multi-Market Advertising 239-449-8309 Franchise Sales John Voell 239-530-1377 Natural Awakenings of Western Mass P.O. Box 10275, Holyoke, MA 01041 Phone: 413-234-0024 Fax: 413-425-8367 Publisher@NAWestMA.com NAWestMA.com facebook.com/pages/ Natural-Awakenings-of-Western-Mass
©2013 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 online to receive FREE monthly digital magazine at NAWestMA.com. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
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he countless heartwarming tales of strangers helping strangers following the Boston Marathon attack go far in restoring and strengthening our faith and hope for humanity. While many ask why disasters and tragedies happen, I try to lighten oppressive fears based on my belief in the intercession of a higher divine power to halt the worsening of pain, injury or death. For example, not all the planted explosives detonated. Few runners were at the finish line at the time. Emergency services were prepared to be onsite quickly. Authorities captured the suspected perpetrators with few additional casualties. Americans may finally wake up for consistent, loving prayer to pre-empt terrorism at its hateful core instead of being mesmerized by it. People banding together to help others is the real highlight of this story as scores of communities, agencies and officials collaborated to overcome evil and accomplish good. On a different note, we welcome spring with May’s Natural Awakenings Bodywork Guide to help you optimize your daily well-being. If we do not take care of ourselves, how can we take care of others? I advise that you keep an open mind when trying new modalities until you find one that is most beneficial and suited to your needs and personality. Your choices may also change over time as you experiment with various combinations. My own first massage, received as a gift, introduced me to the pure rejuvenation of an hour of deep tissue bodywork. Ever since then, I have added regular massage appointments to my self-care program because it not only feels good, it enhances my overall well-being. Spa days make great Mother’s Day gifts; I mean, who needs more stuff? Instead of a one-time occasion, think about offering more than one visit. Once, I even gave my special someone a couple of prescheduled sessions with a personal trainer. When such sessions are already set up, it adds to the incentive; all the recipient has to do is just show up. Thank you all, again, for your support and warm welcome of Natural Awakenings of Western Massachusetts. Increasing demand for the magazine means more places to pick up your copy all around our community. This month we’re up to 10,000 print copies at 275 distribution sites, most at the places of business of our valued advertisers. Please support their products and services, tell them you found them through us and let them know how much you appreciate their making this free magazine possible. If you would like your business to become a magazine distribution spot for readers, please email me at Publisher@NAWestMA.com. We are here to be your go-to community resource. To a wonderful spring in bloom,
Carrie Kennedy, Publisher NAWestMA.com
newsbriefs
Virtual Weight-Loss Program Daily Support Christine’s Bean Sprout Juice Bar Lends eep It Off Once and For All, a & Café Opens in Easthampton Knational permanent weight-loss
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hristine Plant and Glenn Labay have opened Christine’s Bean Sprout Juice Bar & Café, at 42 Cottage Street, in Easthampton. The new vegetarian eatery serves fresh juices and smoothies made from real fruit without syrups or sugars added, and baked goods handcrafted by local artisans such as Woodstar Café and Big E Grocers, along with medium and espresso roast coffees from Esselon Roasters. Breakfast and lunch menus feature sweet potato hash browns, a goat cheese omelet and the Elvis, a grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich on country white bread, locally crafted by Euphoria. The Little Sprouts menu for children includes wheat pancakes with apples and locally sourced maple syrup. Gluten-free menu items are also available. Plant says the restaurant’s carefully selected staff provides personalized service. “A customer can come in and talk to us about how they are feeling, and we can fix a made-to-order smoothie to help fix what ails them,” she advises, adding that area parking is plentiful.
program accessed virtually, offers free, monthly community education conference calls to keep people motivated about losing weight. This month’s call, scheduled from 6 to Becky Castro 6:45 p.m., May 15, covers the topic, How to Curb the Sugar Cravings and Why Sugar is so Detrimental to Weight Loss and Energy. Becky Castro, CPCC, who remembers being called a “toothpick” in high school, reached more than 200 pounds before she committed to losing weight permanently, developed her own program and dropped 62 pounds. A certified personal and business coach for 12 years, Castro developed the program with four principles in mind: Clients must be able to eat foods they love; the plan must be sustainable, not a quick fix; clients must have structured, daily and weekly support by Internet and phone; and clients need a customized exercise plan that they enjoy. According to Castro, participants in the program lose an average of one pound each week.
For more info, call 413-341-0612, email Christine@Christine BeanSprout.com or find Christine’s Bean Sprout on Facebook.
To access the conference line, dial 605-475-4000 and enter password 973173. For more information, call 413-584-4525, email Becky@ILoveMondayMornings.com (subject line: conference call) or visit KeepItOffOnceAndForAll.com.
Farmer Injury Prevention Workshop
Outdoor Yoga Class Set For Near Connecticut River
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ydia Irons, owner of The Flexible Farmer, will lead a 90-minute training workshop on injury prevention and body mechanics for farm workers, from 4 to 6 p.m., May 8, in the Cape Cod Lounge of the student union at the University of Lydia Irons Massachusetts. Light refreshments will be provided. The workshop, sponsored by the UMass Student Farm, is geared towards first-time farm laborers, but is open to anyone that plans to work on a farm this summer. “People who will be working all summer on a farm and have never done it before will be working in ways they are not used to,” says Irons, a licensed massage therapist. “Knowing ways to safely and effectively do their work without risking injury is a huge benefit not only to them, but also to their employers.” The hands-on, interactive workshop will cover functional anatomy and good body mechanics, and provide tips for preventing injury and caring for problem areas. The Flexible Farmer, based in Hadley, offers massage and professional bodywork with a foundation in therapeutic and sports massage for laborers in western Massachusetts.
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xperienced registered yoga teacher J Vecchia, co-owner of Ingleside Therapeutic Massage & Yoga, is leading several outdoor yoga opportunities, including a set of ongoing yoga classes on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays on the covered deck of the Holyoke Boathouse, at Jones Ferry, set along the bank of the Connecticut River (see times in the Community Calendar). Vecchia will also lead an eight-week series, starting June 7, at the Land of Providence, also along the river, sponsored by the Trustees of Reservations, a group of 100,000 members that work to protect and care for the landscapes, heritage and experiences that are important to the citizens of Massachusetts. Vecchia has extensively studied hatha yoga and rajanaka tantra philosophy and completed more than 1,200 hours of teacher trainings and workshops with several senior yoga, meditation and philosophy teachers.
Suggested donation, $5. Location: 280 Hicks Way, Amherst. For more information, call 603-883-1809, email Info@ TheFlexibleFarmer.com or visit TheFlexibleFarmer.com. natural awakenings
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newsbriefs Holyoke Elks Host 5K Race/Walk and Relay
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he second annual Jonno Gray 5K Race and Relay will begin at 4 p.m., June 29, at the Holyoke Lodge of Elks. The event celebrates the life of Jonathan “Jonno” Gray, an athlete who died at age 18 after suffering a deadly arrhythmia in January last year. The race was first held in 2012 to honor Gray and support the fund in his memory. A six-mile relay was added in 2013 to honor the young athlete’s love and dedication to his team, football, track and crew. All proceeds from the race will go to the Jonathan “Jonno” Gray Memorial Fund to provide scholarships for local youth, increase awareness of sudden cardiac death and support the athletic endeavors of the local football, track and field teams, as well as the UMASS Men’s Rowing Club. Location: 250 Whitney Ave., Holyoke. For more information, email
Stanley Park Wheel Walk Celebrates Accessibility
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he fifth annual Wheel Walk, a walk-a-thon designed to accommodate everyone, including those in wheelchairs, walkers and strollers, is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon, June 8, at the Stanley Park Beveridge Pavilion Annex, in Westfield. The walk begins at 10 a.m., with registration at 9 a.m. Proceeds will promote and expand accessibility for all at Stanley Park. Amy L’Esperance, development coordinator for the park, is planning the event’s food, entertainment and other activities; she welcomes participants to serve on the planning committee, sponsor a team, raise funds or volunteer at the event. Bicycles will be on display and the Harley Owners Group will ride to the park as a parade. Stanley Park has a long history of adapting its grounds for everyone, including people with disabilities. In 2006, the park built a playground for children, funded by donations, outfitted according to the Americans with Disabilities Act. During the past few years, accessible walking trails and ramps have been added throughout the park. Location: 400 Western Ave. For more information, call 413-568-9312, ext. 108, or visit StanleyPark.org.
Macey Faiella (left) and Amber Ladley
Creative Reuse Center Opening in Easthampton
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nack: The Art of Clever Reuse, will open in a storefront in the Eastworks building at 116 Pleasant Street, in downtown Easthampton in July. Knack.org was launched online in August 2012, by founders Amber Ladley and Macey Faiella, with a mission to inspire creativity, ingenuity and community engagement through the clever reuse of donated goods. The store will repurpose arts and crafts supplies and carry an array of upcycled gifts, art and home décor made by local artisans. The co-owners also plan to host craft nights, birthday parties and workshops for children and adults. “A creative reuse center collects discarded or used materials, sorts them and sells them at a low cost for people to use in their creative projects,” explains Ladley. “It’s all about upcycling. You take something that was headed for the landfill and make it into something more useful and more beautiful.” “We are so excited that Knack is moving into Eastworks,” says Faiella. “What better place to house a creative reuse center than an upcycled building in the heart of one of the most welcoming arts communities in the Pioneer Valley?” Faiella and Ladley have launched a fundraising campaign on Indiegogo to help offset startup costs. For more information, visit Knack.org.
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Janice Beetle to Read and Sign Books
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ocal author Janice Beetle, of Easthampton, is holding two book readings and signings for her newly published Divine and Their Story of Love and Loss. She will appear at the Redstone Creamery, 48 Shaker Road, in East Longmeadow, at 7 p.m., May 20, and at the Botaniste, 101 Janice Beetle Main Street, in Easthampton, at 7 p.m., May 21. Both events are free. is a story for all audiences about love, loss and faith. Laurie Loisel, managing editor for print at the , says the book is, “…an absorbing, poignant, compelling story that literally made me laugh and cry. It is moving without being maudlin, honest without being confessional. And it is full of surprises. Who knew a book that deals so head-on with loss and grief could be a page-turner?” Beetle is a longtime writer for news publications in Western Massachusetts, as well as the owner of Beetle Press, a communications business in Easthampton. For more information, call 413-374-6239, email BeetlePress@
actionalert East Longmeadow Town Meeting Affects Massage Therapists
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he licensed massage therapists of East Longmeadow are asking residents to vote “yes” on an amendment to a zoning bylaw that will be proposed at the town’s annual meeting, at 7 p.m., May 20. If passed, the amendment will allow licensed massage therapists and salons to operate under a special permit in districts zoned for commercial, business and industrial uses. If it is not passed, many professional massage therapists may be required to relocate their businesses. Only East Longmeadow residents may vote, but the meeting is open to anyone. When practiced by licensed professionals, massage offers proven restorative and therapeutic benefits. Visit the town’s website for any changes of schedule. Location: East Longmeadow High School, 180 Maple St., East Longmeadow. For more information, call the town of East Longmeadow at 413-525-5400 or visit EastLongmeadowMa.gov.
Day of Renewal and Reconnection for Woman
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he Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center, in Westfield, is offering Self-Care Yoga: Gentle Day of Renewal and Reconnection for Women, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 11, led by Kate Forest, an advanced level registered yoga and Mindful Living teacher. The day encourages women to learn and employ self-care skills, mindful living techniques, gentle yoga, meditation and mindful walking. Forest, who owned and directed the Bliss Yoga and Wellness Center, in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, continues to teach classes and workshops based on the healing principles and skills she practices daily. She was a contributing author to the book, , and is writing her first book, Mind and Life! Set on 19 scenic wooded acres, the Genesis Center combines sensitivity to atmosphere, devotion to the land and carefully designed programs. Its logo, a tree, reflects the belief that creation is ongoing and that each person always has the possibility of new beginnings in life and prayer. Cost: $65, lunch provided. Location: 53 Mill St., Westfield. For more information and to preregister (required), call 413-562natural awakenings
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eventspotlight Hartford Family Institute Offers Education to Enrich Holistic Health
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he Hartford Family Institute (HFI) Center for Psychotherapy and Healing offers a professional training program for therapists, an integrative health program for healers and a human relations program for non-therapists. More information about the center’s training style will be presented during free workshops scheduled for May 18, June 22, July 13, August 3 and September 9. Since 1969, HFI has been helping individuals and groups learn life skills to effectively deal with stress, career changes, life transitions, parenting, divorce, trauma, mental health and illness, chronic and terminal illness and relationship issues. Services include Buddhist conflict resolution for couples, shamanic healing sessions, life coaching, nutritional counseling, acupuncture, qigong, Reiki and massage therapy. For healing professionals, including nurses, massage therapists, yoga instructors, personal trainers, movement therapists and energy healers, HFI offers a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Counseling. Developed in affiliation with the Graduate Theological Foundation, the program is non-denominational and no religious affiliation is necessary; however, a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for application. The program offers concentrations in either integrative healing or somatic expressive therapy. The curriculum is psycho-spiritual in nature, based on the theories of in-depth body psychotherapy and subtle energy healing. For individuals that are simply curious about the unique emotional, mental and energy systems that affect how we interact with others, HFI offers workshops that concentrate on creating a more satisfying life, developing deeper intimacy and understanding the impact that life experiences have on our well-being and peace of mind. HFI uses an approach encouraging the connection of mind, body and spirit that was derived by combining Western and Eastern psychology, Native American philosophy and other spiritual and wisdom traditions with valid scientific research from physics, neurobiology, physiology and other health sciences. Location: 17 S. Highland St., West Hartford. For more information, call 860-236-6009, email Info@HartfordFamilyInstitute.com or visit HartfordFamilyInstitute.com. See ad, page 23.
healthbriefs
More Sleep Helps Shed Pounds
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njoying more zzz’s is not usually associated with weight loss, but a growing number of epidemiological studies suggest that insufficient sleep may be linked to a greater risk of weight gain. The latest results from a study presented at the 2012 annual meeting of the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior points out that sleep behavior influences body weight by affecting not only how many calories we consume, but also how much energy we expend. When researchers at Tübingen and Lübeck universities, in Germany, and Uppsala University, in Sweden, investigated the effect of short-term sleep deprivation on hunger, physical activity and energy levels, they discovered that insufficient sleep increased the participants’ sensations of hunger by raising the level of the “hunger hormone”, ghrelin. The less sleep a person had, the hungrier they felt. After only one night of disrupted sleep, the volunteers moved around less and burned off fewer calories in their resting state than their counterparts that enjoyed a good night’s sleep.
Midwife-Led Birth Centers Improve Outcomes
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omen that receive care at midwifeled birth centers incur lower medical costs and are less likely to have Caesarean births than women that give birth at hospitals, according to new findings by the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC). The rising number of Cesarean births in the United States (32 percent in 2010, according to the National Centers for Disease Control ) has generated concern due to short- and long-term health implications for women, their newborns and future pregnancies. The AABC study, which included more than 15,500 women that received care in 79 midwife-led birth centers in 33 states from 2007 through 2010, found that fewer than 6 percent of the participants required a Caesarean birth, compared to nearly 24 percent similarly low-risk women cared for in a hospital setting. Birth centers—homelike facilities functioning within the health care system—are based on a wellness model of pregnancy and birth personalized to individual needs. “They are uniquely positioned to provide healthy women and their newborns with maternity care, avoiding unnecessary Caesarean births,” advises AABC President-Elect Lesley Rathbun, a certified nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner. “Americans need to learn about the high-quality care that midwife-led birth centers offer.” Source: American College of Nurse-Midwives
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MAY IS ASPARAGUS MONTH
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ometimes referred to as the aristocrat of vegetables, asparagus has been cultivated for more than 2,000 years. It was prized by ancient Greeks and Romans for its taste and reputed medicinal qualities, and 19th-century French bridegrooms, believing it was an aphrodisiac, frequently ate several helpings on the eve of their nuptials. The crop reaches its peak during April and May. Packing a fiber-filled punch of vitamins A and C, this princely veggie also delivers significant helpings of folate and rutin, which help to strengthen blood vessels. Its delicate flavor is best preserved by stir-frying or light steaming. Source: FruitsAndVeggiesMatter.gov
NATURAL OILS LOWER CHOLESTEROL
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ccording to new data presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions, people that switched to cooking with a blend of sesame and rice bran oils experienced noteworthy drops in blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. The 60-day study in New Delhi, India, involved 300 participants and showed that cooking with a combination of these oils in a variety of ways worked nearly as well as a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication.
Yoga Reduces Depression in Pregnant Women
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regnancy hormones are known to cause myriad physical and emotional symptoms, including unexplainable mood swings. The fluctuations are more serious for one in five expectant moms because they also experience major depression. Now, a groundbreaking study by the University of Michigan offers new hope. Pregnant women identified as psychiatrically high-risk that participated in a 10-week mindfulness yoga intervention experienced significant reductions in their depressive symptoms. Mothers-to-be also reported stronger attachment to their babies in the womb.
The Exercise Advantage
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aking a brisk walk or bike ride may stave off cognitive decline better than reaching for the daily crossword puzzle, says a new study published in the journal Neurology. Researchers at Scotland’s University of Edinburgh reviewed the medical records of more than 600 Scots born in 1936 that were given MRI scans at age 73. “People in their 70s that participated in more physical exercise, including walking several times a week, had less brain shrinkage and other signs of aging in the brain than those that were less physically active,” says study author Alan J. Gow, Ph.D. Surprisingly, the study showed that participating in mentally and socially stimulating activities, such as visiting family and friends, reading or even learning a new language, did little to ward off the symptoms of an aging brain. Study participants will undergo a second MRI scan at age 76, and researchers plan to compare the two scans to see if the links between exercise and better brain health hold up. natural awakenings
May 2013
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Honoring Veterans
Helping Troops Return Home to Meaningful Work Colin and Karen Archipley, owners of Archi’s Acres, in Escondido, California, daily honor contributions by America’s armed forces by helping combat vets return home to a fresh start doing meaningful work through their Veterans Sustainable Agriculture Training (VSAT) program. Established in 2007, they can now list 160 ongoing agribusinesses nationwide led by program graduates. “This instills confidence in the veterans as together, we tap into their abilities to adapt and overcome, to take on a challenge and to know themselves and seek improvement,” says Colin, who served with the Marine Corps. This year, the couple is expanding the program by launching 10 one-acre certifiedorganic hydroponic greenhouses as incubators sparking future VSAT-graduate businesses. For more information, call 800-9335234, email Karen@ArchisAcres.com or visit ArchisAcres.com.
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Veggie Power
Food Revolution Day is May 17 Food Revolution Day, a collaborative effort between the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation in the United States, the Better Food Foundation in the UK and The Good Foundation in Australia, aims to get people around the world talking about real food and food education. Last year, the global day of action encompassed more than 1,000 events and dinner parties among families and friends, school associates, work colleagues and community neighbors in 664 cities in 62 countries. To get involved, visit
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communityspotlight
Pillars Massage Michelle Grassi Facilitates Natural Healing by Judith Kelliher
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ong before Pillars Massage was even a thought in her mind, Michelle Grassi was rather skeptical about the healing powers of massage. While she was stationed in Japan from 1995 to 1998 as part of her Air Force service, Grassi was introduced to Traditional Chinese Medicine, which encompasses practices such as massage and acupuncture. Her initial skepticism turned to fascination as she experienced massage firsthand and considered the prospect of self-healing. “I was enamored by… how people cared for one another… the compassion and the touch of massage and the giving during treatment,” Grassi recalls. “It’s people helping people. It doesn’t consist of a pill or a shot or a prescription or anything other than being mindful of yourself, being present and helping facilitate an environment for healing to take place,” she notes. In 1998, after serving eight years in the Air Force, Grassi left with the rank of staff sergeant. For several years, she says, “I scurried around trying to find my way around the civilian world.” She connected with a T’ai Chi Master, Fu Wu, in Springfield, Massachusetts, and began studying and eventually teaching the mind-body practice. Building a massage business was not far behind. “Everybody already knows massage. When you hurt your leg or your leg is in pain, the first thing you do is reach down and touch or rub it to relieve that pain,” Grassi says. “I understand and have learned the physiology and the science behind massage. That’s what interested me.” Grassi graduated from the massage therapy program at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC), in Springfield, in 2012; this May, she will have earned an Associate of Science
Michelle Grassi degree in Massage Therapy, also from STCC. About a year ago, Grassi began operating Pillars Massage, offering therapeutic massage and energy work to enhance the well-being of healthminded individuals. Today, she works from three locations in western Massachusetts: Chicopee, Southwick and Southampton. A firm believer in the holistic health benefits of massage, Grassi cites its physical boons and notes that the therapy can help relieve stress, muscle tension, stiffness and spasms; foster faster healing of strained muscles; provide greater joint flexibility and range of motion; strengthen the immune system; and promote more restful sleep. She says the mental health advantages of massage are as effective and valuable as its physical benefits. “As a massage therapist, you learn about how stress affects the body and the chemicals and hormones that are created to maintain… the body’s high alert level,”
Grassi advises. “Massage fosters a peaceful and relaxed state of mind and relieves mental stress; it enhances the capacity for calm thinking and allows for greater creativity.” One benefit that Grassi finds to be the most meaningful is touch. “Massage satisfies the need for a caring and compassionate touch. What we find in today’s society is that we’re so busy and we rush, rush, rush. There are so many things going on that we don’t take the time to be present with one another and come in contact with one another. Touch is almost a forbidden thing now,” she notes, explaining that the sensations of being nurtured and touched can help people develop emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Pillars Massage offers several styles of massage, including relaxation, deep-tissue, hot stone and chair. Grassi also provides Reiki and performs qigong healing. Each treatment is tailored to the individual, and many clients opt for a combination of relaxation and deep-tissue massage. “I like to think of each of my treatments as an opportunity to open the individual’s energy pathways so they enjoy a whole healing experience, not just muscle relaxation,” she says. Locations: Abundant Wellness Center, 94 Chicopee St., Chicopee; and Dhira wick. For more info or to schedule an appointment, call 413-636-3205, email FeelBetter@PillarsMassage.com or visit PillarsMassage.com. See ad, page 6. tor for Beetle Press, a writing, editing and graphic design business based in Easthampton, MA. Connect at BeetlePress@ hotmail.com or BeetlePress.com. See ad, page 6. natural awakenings
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healthykids
TEEN DRAMA QUEENS Keeping the Mother-Daughter Bond Strong
by Meredith Montgomery
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or many, the girls’ ovaries, and Actively engaging strong motherby age 10 or 11, the with my mom has daughter bond hormones become seems to suddenly enabled me to balance elevated to levels unravel when adolesto those my independence with comparable cence appears. “Parof postmenopausal a dependable bond, women. enting is exasperating and wears you out,” Dr. Christiane which helps me grow sighs Heather Thomas, Northrup, author of into my true self. Plus, Mother-Daughter Wisof Houston, Texas, a mother of three, it allows my mom to dom, points out that in including 16-year-old addition to experiencknow the real me. Mary Meghan. ing mood swings and Mothers can temperature changes ~Eliza Reynolds gain some comfort in similar to those of the biological reasons for the onset of menopausal women, girls’ rising estroemotionally charged arguments and gen, unbalanced by progesterone, may repeated curfew violations. It begins likewise produce brain irritability. “It’s with changes in the brain caused by an no wonder girls are both cuddling with increase in the hormones that stimulate and screaming at you in the same day,”
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she points out. Nurse Practitioner Sil Reynolds, who co-authored Mothering & Daughtering with her daughter Eliza, gently reminds mothers, “The motheradolescent daughter relationship is asymmetrical. Mothers are responsible for being the adult in the relationship as their daughters grow up. Understanding this can be a relief to both of you.” Part of the responsibility of being an adult is to provide a safe psychological and emotional environment for children without taking things personally. The frontal cortex responsible for making decisions is still developing in the adolescent brain. Weathering mood swings and reactive outbursts, mothers can learn to remain steady, understanding that teens are not capable of giving back equally because their minds have not yet fully matured. “That’s how teens learn to return to a calm place, by seeing our mom remain steady through our storms,” Eliza observes.
Powerful Role Models
Northrup believes that a daughter’s peers play a large role in her successfully navigating the teen years, but emphasizes that, “A mother’s influence wins. Be consistent in your loving and clear about rules and boundaries, while encouraging a sense of their own worth and autonomy.” Teenagers are anxious to grow up and do their own thing, but until they have internalized safe and reasonable boundaries, they need someone else to establish them. Northrup reports how teen clients that were given too much freedom… “come in aching for boundaries and feel that their parents
don’t care about them. It is the parents’ job to create healthy, though not rigid, boundaries.” What has worked for Heather is to casually join Mary Meghan in her room with an intention to be present and actively listen to her. “I say something simple like, ‘I have missed you,’ and then allow her to open up to me without being critical or judgmental,” she explains. “Sometimes we listen to music or look at outfits in magazines together.” “Girls know when you’re paying attention, and your tone and body language speak louder than words,” confirms Eliza. She also notes that, “How was your day?” doesn’t work as well as the more specific, “How did your test go?” As with any relationship, there are occasional conflicts and misunderstandings, but there’s always potential for repair. Eliza and Sil encourage mothers and daughters to reconnect through the repair process; with heartfelt restoration, the bond grows stronger.
Helpful Activities
Everyone benefits from regularly scheduled quality time together. Sil advises, “For households with siblings, this can mean 10 one-on-one minutes a day for each kid. When both parents aren’t under the same roof, technology can help—face time is better than texting, whether it’s
through a screen or not.” Some mother-daughter teams enjoy taking dance classes together, having movie dates or pairing up as volunteers. At their weekend workshops, the Reynolds engage in projects and conversations about what it means to invite spirituality and a sense of sacredness into one’s life. Sil sees firsthand how many mothers and daughters are “hungry for spiritual depth.” Heather’s family makes dinners, school vacations and church activities a priority, including a youth program. She says, “Through our church, we are blessed to have caring, Christian adults we trust to help guide and raise our kids and help formulate their morals. It’s a place where it’s okay to question beliefs and share differing viewpoints.” Many moms seek better bonds with their daughters than what they experienced as teens. Heather notes, “I only see my mother a couple times a year, and when I do, I give her an extra hug and apologize [both jokingly and seriously] for my own teen years. Now, having teen girls of my own, I get how hard it is, and I tell her that every time I see her.” For more information and tools, visit MotheringAndDaughtering.com. Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).
Key Family Communication Tools Avoid the use of absolutes (never, always, everyone, forever) because they leave no room for differing opinions or shared responsibility for problems. For example, replace “always” with “often,” or “everyone” with “a lot of people.” Soften statements by turning heated one-liners into “I” statements. Say, “I feel like you don’t call when you say you will,” rather than, “You never call when you say you will.” Instead of open-ended questions, try a three-word check-in. Both mother and daughter share three words that describe their current emotional state honestly and authentically. Take turns sharing. There is no need to explain why these words were chosen, but it can give both parties a better glimpse into each other’s current state of heart and mind.
A Daughter’s Go-To Guidelines by Eliza Reynolds Don’t give up. When you give up, you are asking your mom to give up on you. Instead of stating, “She’ll never get me or trust me and she’ll always embarrass me,” help her to meet the real you. Stay real. Be authentic and genuine (no BS). If you want to talk, try starting with a simple, “Hey, Mom, I’ve got something I want to talk to you about. Could just the two of us consult for a minute?” Yes, your mom may be eerily on point sometimes, but she can’t actually read your mind (Surprise!). Build the relationship you want and need. It’s the one where you get along. She listens when you’re talking and you want to listen, too. It’s normal for this to take work. When you choose to be half of this two-person team that’s key to your well-being, teenage life becomes easier. I call it the art of daughtering. Just imagine what life could be like if your mom was your greatest ally.
MotheringAndDaughtering.com. natural awakenings
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fitbody
Bicycling is fun, safe and easier and faster than any other mode of transportation. It saves me money, makes me healthy and above all else, brings me joy every day. ~Elly Blue
A Passion for Pedaling Hop on a Bike and Go Lean and Green by Debra Melani
Trading in the car keys for more two-wheeled time could curb many of society’s woes, from spiraling healthcare costs to deepening carbon footprints. Yet, the main reason many bicyclists love going for a spin is that it yields a greater sense of well-being and contributes to a healthier, more rewarding life.
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know it sounds crazy to say that bicycling is a silver bullet for all of these things, but I think it is,” says Elly Blue, 34, author of the recently released book, Everyday Bicycling: . Blue’s life was transformed when she made a bicycle part of her daily world; so much so that she now dedicates her writing career largely to the subject.
“Bicycling is just so much more rewarding than driving,” remarks Tammy Strobel, 34, who gained national attention with her husband when they simplified their lives by building a 128-square-foot house. Cycling to work and to run errands was “a huge” piece of their transformation, even after the couple hauled their tiny abode from Portland, Oregon, (where Blue also resides) to a cattle ranch in California. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans that generally bike to work grew by 43 percent between 2000 and 2008, a statistic that doesn’t surprise Blue. She first tried bike commuting after growing weary of relying on the bus system. “I got hooked on just how good it felt. It’s like flying.” Blue soon found that cycling was also a faster way to commute, restoring control of her schedule, reducing stress and boosting her happiness. Strobel, who adds that enjoying nature and increasing daily exercise are also cycling benefits, says it’s bolstered 14
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her happiness and quality of life. “I don’t have to spend time going to the gym,” explains the freelance writer and photographer. “I’m getting my exercise on my bike. I feel healthier and in better shape now.” Several studies show dramatic health benefits for bike commuters. The Archives of Internal Medicine reported that when University of Copenhagen researchers analyzed mortality from all causes in 13,445 women and 17,441 men, they found that non-bike commuters, even those otherwise physically active, had a 39 percent higher mortality rate during the 14-year study period than those that biked to work. In another study, researchers followed 67,143 women in Shanghai (of whom more than 75 percent cycled) and found those that used bikes had a 20 to 50 percent lower risk of earlier mortality than their non-regularly exercising counterparts. They also boasted reduced rates of diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease ( Epidemiology). Studies published in the Activity and Health further found that countries with higher numbers of biking or walking commuters have lower obesity rates. Cycling boons transcend health benefits, expanding social circles for example, Blue and Strobel agree. “I was introduced to a whole new community,” Strobel recalls of her time in Portland with new cycling friends that she joined for group rides and camping trips. Blue suggests finding fellow cyclists by seeking riding groups online or participating in charity rides. She observes that cycling can instill a greater sense of community, because it’s easier to stop and interact with others. Cycling also makes people greener and leaner. It reduces gas and car maintenance costs, while keeping polluting vehicles off the road, observes Strobel, who cleared college and other debt by making her life transformation. “There are just so many benefits to bicycling, and they are all really big things that contribute to the quality of life,” advises Strobel. “It feels so good to be on my bike and just slow down. In my old life, I was moving at such a fast pace that I didn’t even notice the change of seasons. With cycling, you notice everything.” For biking and other life-simplifying tips, follow both women on their blogs: Blue at TakingTheLane.com/blog and Strobel at Find equipment specifically designed for women by industry pioneer Georgena Terry at TerryBicycles.com. Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at DebraMelani.com or DMelani@msn.com.
businessspotlight
More than Your Average YMCA Urban Bike Shop and Teaching Kitchen Keep Holyoke Healthy by Nancy Somera
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how a bicycle was rebuilt into a man-powered s the weather warms, cycling enthusimachine to harvest crops,” Budd recalls. “They enasts become eager to return outdoors couraged kids to brainstorm on other man-powered for a pedal-powered trip around town inventions, and the group came up with a bicycleor a more strenuous trail ride. When a tunepowered ice cream maker.” up or repair is needed, riders can look to the Using a simple basket attached behind the bike, Holyoke Urban Bike Shop (HUBS), inside the a barrel rolls against the wheel when pedaled, and Greater Holyoke YMCA, to meet their riding in 15 minutes, soft-serve ice cream is ready to enjoy. and maintenance needs. Budd is quick to add, “We also point out to the kids In 2010, the YMCA collaborated with how many minutes of bike riding are required to the Holyoke Food & Fitness Policy Council burn off the calories in the ice cream, connecting and agreed to build a community bike shop nutrition and physical activity with being healthy.” to help meet the council’s goal of creating To help promote cycling and an active lifestyle a community environment and infrastrucamong its residents, MDPH is preparing a bike lane ture that promotes active living. HUBS was improvement plan and conducting a bicycle usage introduced to the residents of Holyoke as a survey to learn more about the cycling habits of one-room bike shop where a weekly bicycle its residents. Additionally, the YMCA has opened maintenance class began, being taught by a a new community teaching kitchen, an educavolunteer instructor. By the third week, 80 tional space for monthly cooking demonstrations students had enrolled in the class, evidence and healthy eating workshops. “The Why We Eat that a structured program was needed, and program is one more component to our health and the Earn-A-Bike program was launched. It wellness curriculum that helps people meet their begins its fourth season this month. health and fitness goals,” says Budd. The six-to-eight-week program, intended If Budd has her way, HUBS will soon become a for children ages 12 to 17, is taught by volco-op style bike shop, with expert bike mechanics unteer bike experts. Weekly hands-on lesson on hand to answer questions while visitors drop in plans cover bicycle maintenance and repair, to perform repairs and maintenance on their bikes. such as how to overhaul a brake system, and A broader educational program is also in the works, participants practice their newly acquired including an expanded Earn-A-Bike program for skills on a bike that becomes their own after adults. Budd notes that in the meantime, plenty of they complete the course. According to YMCA activities, including community bike rides, enCommunity Wellness Coordinator Liz Budd, Photos: (top) Liz courage all ages to stay active and fit this summer. scholarships and financial aid are available. Budd, YMCA Wellness “Pedal down to the Holyoke YMCA, HUBS and the “No one is ever turned away due to the inabilCoordinator; (middle) teaching kitchen soon,” she invites. ity to pay for the program,” she affirms. Earn-A-Bike program in With funding from the Massachusetts process; (bottom) HUBS’ Location: 160 Beech St. The Earn-A-Bike program is Department of Public Health (MDPH), HUBS purpose and promise open to members and non-members. The next sesrecently moved to the Lou Parent Center sion is scheduled from 3:30 to 5 p.m., May 2. A HUBS open Building, on the same YMCA campus, gaining much-needed house will be held from noon to 3 p.m., May 11. For more additional space to conduct workshops and activities like information, call 413-534-5631, ext. 114 or visit HolyokeUrsummer camps, a bike rodeo and learn-to-ride programs. Budd refers to the many volunteer workshop and class leaders as the “bike crew” and praises their ability to get particiNancy Somera is a writer and editor for several Natural pants excited about the benefits of cycling. Awakenings “The bike crew was inspired by a movie that showed
“No one is ever turned away due to the inability to pay for the [Earn-A-Bike] program,” YMCA Wellness Coordinator Liz Budd affirms. natural awakenings
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Natural Awakenings’
Bodywork Guide I
n 2010, the nonprofit Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, in Los Angeles, published the results of research done by its department of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences that confirmed centuries of anecdotal evidence: People that undergo massage experience measureable changes in the responses of their immune and endocrine systems. For millennia, therapeutic touch has been used to heal the body and reduce tension. Today, more than 100 types of bodywork techniques are available, with modalities ranging from massage and deep tissue manipulation to movement awareness and bio-energetic therapies. All are designed to improve the body’s structure and functioning. Bodywork may be used to help reduce pain, relieve stress, improve blood and lymphatic circulation and promote deep relaxation; some therapies simultaneously focus on emotional release. The following list includes many of the better-known bodywork systems. Finding an approach that improves one’s mental and physical health is a highly individual process; with professional guidance, several modalities may be combined for the greatest personal benefit.
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Acupressure: Based on the same system as acupuncture, acupressure stimulates body pressure points using fingers and hands instead of needles, in order to restore a balanced flow of life energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). This force moves through the body along 12 energy pathways, or meridians, which practitioners “unblock and strengthen.” Common styles include jin shin, which gently holds at least two points at once for a minute or more; and shiatsu, which applies firm pressure to each point for three to five seconds. (Also see Shiatsu.) Tui na and Thai massage stimulate qi through acupressure hand movements, fullbody stretches and Chinese massage techniques. (Also see Tui na.) Other forms of acupressure include jin shin do, jin shin jyutsu and acu-yoga. Learn more at Acupressure.com. Alexander Technique: This awareness practice helps identify and change unconscious, negative physical habits related to posture and movement, breathing and tension. While observing the way an individual walks, stands, sits or performs other basic movements, the practitioner keeps their hands in easy contact with the body and gently guides it to
encourage a release of restrictive muscular tension. The technique is frequently used to treat repetitive strain injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome, backaches, plus stiff necks and shoulders. Learn more at AlexanderTechnique.com. Ayurvedic Massage: It’s one part of panchakarma, a traditional East Indian detoxification and rejuvenation program, in which the entire body is vigorously massaged with large amounts of warm oil and herbs to remove toxins. With the client’s permission, oil is also poured into the ears, between the eyebrows and applied to specific chakras, or body energy centers, in techniques known respectively as karna purana, shirodhara and marma chikitsa. These treatments, modified to meet the needs of the West, powerfully affect the mind and nervous system—calming, balancing and bringing a heightened sense of awareness and deep inner peace. Ayurvedic massage techniques are grounded in an understanding of the primordial energies of the five elements—ether, air, fire, water and earth—and of the three basic types of energies, or constitutions, that are present in everyone and everything—vata, pitta and kapha. A knowledgeable therapist selects and customizes various ayurvedic massage techniques by selecting the rate and pressure of massage strokes and the proper oils and herbs. Learn more at AyurvedicMassage.com. Bioenergetics plus Core Energetics: A combination of physical and psychological techniques that identifies and frees areas of repressed physical and emotional trauma in the body. Deep breathing, various forms of massage and physical exercises release layers of chronic muscular tension and defensiveness, termed “body armor”. The unlocking of feelings creates the opportunity to better understand and integrate them with other aspects of oneself. Core Energetics is based on the principles of bioenergetics, but acknowledges spirituality as a key dimension of healing. Learn more at usabp.org. BodyTalk: Developed by chiropractor and acupuncturist Dr. John Veltheim, BodyTalk is based upon bioenergetic psychology, dynamic systems theory, Chinese medicine and applied kinesiology. By integrating tapping,
breathing and focusing techniques, BodyTalk helps the body synchronize and balance its systems and strengthens its capability of self-repair. BodyTalk is used to address a range of health challenges, ranging from chronic fatigue and allergies to addictions and cellular damage. Practitioners are usually licensed massage therapists (LMT) or bodyworkers. Learn more at BodyTalkSystem.com. Bowen Technique (also called Bowtech and Bowenwork): This muscle and connective tissue therapy employs gentle, purposeful moves, through light clothing, to help rebalance the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The practitioner’s subtle inputs deliver signals to the ANS at specific locations—muscles, tendons, ligaments or nerves—and the body responds in its own time, within its vital capacity. The technique is named after its originator, Australian Tom Bowen, who also introduced the concept of inserting periods of rest between a series of movements within a treatment session. Sometimes called the homeopathy of bodywork, Bowtech addresses imbalances and both acute and chronic pain. Learn more at Bowtech.com. Breema Bodywork: Often described as a cross between partner yoga and Thai massage, Breema is a movement technique designed to restore vitality at an energetic level. It employs standardized sets of movements, based upon more than 300 sequences, none of which require strong exertions or muscular contortions. Breema techniques, which identify and emphasize
nine principles of harmony, can be administered by a practitioner or by the individual as Self-Breema. The therapy originated in the Kurdish village of Breemava, in Western Asia. Learn more at Breema.com. Craniosacral Therapy (CST): The practitioner applies manual therapeutic procedures to remedy distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism—the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum and interconnected membranes. Craniosacral work is based upon two major premises: the bones of the skull can be manipulated because they never completely fuse; and the pulse of the cerebrospinal fluid can be balanced by a practitioner trained to detect pulse variations. CST, also referred to as cranial osteopathy, is used to treat learning difficulties, dyslexia, hyperactivity, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, chronic pain and ear, eye and balance problems. Deep Tissue Bodywork: In this method, stretching and moving the connective tissue that envelops the muscles (fascia) works to lengthen and balance
the body along its natural, vertical axis. Distortions of the connective tissue may be caused by internal reactions and complications due to accidents, emotional tensions or past unreleased traumas. The practitioner uses slow strokes, direct pressure or friction across the muscles via fingers, thumbs or elbows. Deep tissue massage works to detoxify tissue by helping to remove accumulated lactic acid and other waste products from the muscles. The therapy is used to ease or eliminate chronic muscular pain or inflammatory pain from arthritis, tendonitis and other ailments, and help with injury rehabilitation. Learn more at DeepBodywork.com. Feldenkrais Method: This distinctive approach combines movement training, gentle touch and verbal dialogue to help students straighten out what founder Moshé Pinhas Feldenkrais calls, “kinks in the brain.” Kinks are learned movement patterns that no longer serve a constructive purpose. They may have been adopted to compensate for a physical injury or to accommodate individuality in the social world. Students of the Feldenkrais Method unlearn unworkable move-
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ments and discover better, personalized ways to move, using mind-body principles of slowed action, conscious breathing, body awareness and thinking about their feelings. Feldenkrais takes two forms: In individual hands-on sessions (Functional Integration), the practitioner’s touch is used to address the student’s breathing and body alignment. In a series of classes of slow, non-aerobic motion (Awareness Through Movement), students “relearn” better ways for their bodies to move. Feldenkrais therapy is useful in the treatment of muscle injuries, back pain, arthritis, stress and tension. Learn more at Feldenkrais.com. Hakomi: A Hopi Indian word that translates as, “Who are you?” Hakomi is a body-centered psychotherapy that relies upon touch, massage, movement and structural and energy work to help enable individuals change their “core” material—memories, images, beliefs, neural patterns and deeply held emotional dispositions. Originally created by Ron Kurtz in the mid-1970s and later refined, the technique views the body as an interactive source of information about the unconscious mind. Learn more at HakomiInstitute.com. HEMME Approach: Derived from elements of physical medicine, chiropractic, osteopathy and physical therapy, HEMME (history, evaluation, modalities, manipulation and exercise) was developed in 1986 by Licensed Massage Therapist Dave Leflet to treat soft tissue injuries and impairments. Pain relief results from restoring alignment and improving myofascial dysfunction. Learn more at HemmeApproach.com. Hot Stone Therapy: (See LaStone Therapy Stone Massage) Integrative Therapeutic Massage: (See Neuromuscular Therapy) Jin Shin Jyutsu: A form of acupressure refined from ancient Japanese traditions, jin shin jyutsu acts to harmonize the life force within. Practitioners evaluate pulses, body conformation and symptoms to customize sessions designed to alleviate discomfort while addressing its cause(s). Utilizing the hands as jumper cables to reawaken bodily energy, sequences of vital energy-points are held to guide, redirect and reestablish har18
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mony in spirit, mind and body. Learn more at jsjinc.net. LaStone Therapy Stone Massage: This soothing form of massage employs smooth heated or cooled stones to elicit physical healing, mental relaxation and a spiritual connection with Earth’s energy. Stones are placed at different spots on the body for energy balancing or may be used by the therapist on specific trigger points. Warm stones encourage the exchange of blood and lymph and provide relaxing heat for deep-tissue work. Cold stones aid with inflammation, moving blood out of the affected area and balancing male/female energies. The alternating heat and cold of thermotherapy helps activate all of the body’s healing processes with a rapid exchange of blood and oxygen and an alternating rise and fall of respiration rate as the body seeks homeostasis. Learn more at LaStoneTherapy.com. LooyenWork: This painless, deeptissue approach works with the connective tissue and fascial components by combining the techniques of Rolfing, postural integration and Aston patterning to free tension, remove adhesions and improve freedom of movement. It was introduced in 1985 by Dutch-born bodyworker and counselor Ted Looyen after he received treatment for a serious back injury and decided to develop a massage therapy that would promote recovery from injuries without aggravating the initial trauma. LooyenWork can also address the release and processing of intense emotions. Manual Lymphatic Drainage: This gentle, non-invasive, rhythmical, whole-body massage aims to stimulate the lymphatic system to release excess fluid from loose connective tissues, thus helping to remove toxins. Lymph glands are part of the body’s defense against infection; blockage or damage within the system may lead to conditions such as edema, acne, inflammation, arthritis and sinusitis. By stimulating one of the body’s natural cleansing systems, it supports tissue health. It’s also been effective in assuaging lymphedema following mastectomy surgery. Learn more at VodderSchool.com and LymphNet.org. Massage: At its most basic, this ancient hands-on therapy involves rubbing or kneading the body to encour-
age relaxation, healing and well-being. Today, more than 100 different methods of massage are available, most of them in five categories: traditional; Oriental or energetic; European; contemporary Western; and integrative, encompassing structure, function and movement. Massage offers proven benefits to meet a variety of physical challenges and may also be a useful preventive therapy. Learn more at amtaMassage.org. Myofascial Release: This wholebody, hands-on technique seeks to free the body from the grip of tight fascia, or connective tissue, thus restoring normal alignment and function and reducing pain. Therapists use their hands to apply mild, sustained pressure in order to gently stretch and soften fascia. Developed in the late 1960s by Physical Therapist John Barnes, myofascial release is used to treat neck and back pain, headaches, recurring sports injuries and scoliosis. Learn more at Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET): This mind-body therapy seeks to restore well-being by removing certain biochemical and bioelectrical charges stored in the brain and manifested as illness or imbalances in the body. NET combines techniques and principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine, chiropractic and applied kinesiology to remove blocks to the body’s natural vitality, allowing it to repair itself naturally. Chiropractor Scott Walker formu-
lated NET in the late 1980s. Learn more at NetMindBody.com. Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT): Specific massage therapy and flexibility stretching help balance the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, emphasizing the interwoven roles of the brain, spine and nerves in causing muscular pain. Its goal is to relieve tender, congested spots in muscle tissue and compressed nerves that may radiate pain to other areas of the body. (Also see Trigger Point Therapy.) Learn more at MyofascialTherapy.org. Physical Therapy: Traditional physical therapy evaluates difficulties with mobility or function to focus on rehabilitation that entails restorative treatment and instruction on how to make efficient use of the body in daily activities. Physical therapists use massage, exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound and other means to help the patient regain functional movement. Learn more at apta.org. Raindrop Therapy: Based on a healing ritual of Lakota Native Americans, in which warm fluid substances are dropped onto the spine, the intention is to relax and open the body’s energy centers. Modern raindrop therapy also blends aromatherapy, soothing heat and gentle massage. Essential aromatic oils are allowed to methodically drip onto the spine from a height of five or six inches. The oils are then gently brushed up the spine and lightly massaged over the rest of the back, followed by application of a hot compress to facilitate oil absorption and muscle relaxation. Reflexology (Zone Therapy): Reflexology is based on the idea that specific reflex points on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands correspond with every major organ, gland and area (zone) of the body. Using fingers and thumbs, the practitioner applies pressure to these points to treat a wide range of health problems. Zone therapy, an earlier name for this natural healing art, sometimes refers to a specific form of reflexology. Learn more at Reiki: A healing practice originated in Japan as a way of activating and balancing the life-force present in all living things, Reiki literally means “universal life-force energy”. Light hand
placements channel healing energies to organs and glands and work to align the body’s energy centers, or chakras. Various techniques address emotional and mental distress, chronic and acute physical problems or pursuit of spiritual focus and clarity. Today Reiki is a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses and others in the West. Learn more at Rolfing Structural Integration (Rolfing): Deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system, which is composed of the muscles and the connective tissue, or fascia, by the practitioners’ hands helps restore the body’s natural alignment and sense of integration. As the body is released from old patterns and postures, its range and freedom of physical and emotional expression increases. Rolfing can help ease pain and chronic stress, enhance neurological functioning, improve posture and restore flexibility. Learn more at Shiatsu: The most widely known form of acupressure, shiatsu is Japanese for “finger pressure”. The technique applies varying degrees of pressure to balance the life energy that flows through specific pathways, or meridians, in the body. Shiatsu is used to release tension and strengthen weak areas in order to facilitate even circulation, cleanse cells and improve the function of vital organs; it also may help to diagnose, prevent and relieve many chronic and acute conditions that manifest on both physical and emotional levels. A branch of shiatsu that originated in the United States, called ohashiatsu, includes meditation and exercise. Learn more at ShiatsuSociety.org and Ohashiatsu.org. Soma Neuromuscular Integration (also called Soma): Rooted in structural integration, soma was developed by Bill M. Williams, Ph.D., an early student of Ida Rolf. Through a 10-session format, the modality manipulates the fascia and muscles to release chronic, stored structural aberrations, realign the body and integrate the nervous system. This allows the individual to process experiences more effectively and with greater awareness, which can lead to enhanced learning and perceptual abilities. Learn more at Soma-Institute.org. Sports Massage: The specialized
field of sports massage employs a variety of massage techniques and stretching exercises designed to minimize the risk of injury, tend to sports injuries and support optimum performance. Structural Integration: (see Rolfing Structural Integration) Swedish Massage: This is the most commonly practiced form of massage in Western countries. Swedish massage integrates ancient Oriental techniques with contemporary principles of anatomy and physiology. Practitioners rub, knead, pummel, brush and tap the client’s muscles, topped with long, gliding strokes. Swedish massage is especially effective for improving circulation; relieving muscle tension and back and neck pain; promoting relaxation; and decreasing stress. Practitioners vary in training, techniques and session lengths. Thai Massage: A form of body therapy, also called nuad bo-ram, Thai massage incorporates gentle rocking motions, rhythmic compression along the body’s energy lines and passive stretching to stimulate the free flow of energy, break up blockages and help restore general well-being. One of the branches of Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM), it is performed on a floor mat, with the client dressed in lightweight, comfortable clothing. No oils are used. Thai massage aids flexibility, inner organ massage, and in oxygenation of the blood and quieting of the mind. Learn more at Thai-Institute.com. natural awakenings
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Therapeutic Touch (TT): This contemporary healing modality was developed by natural healer Dora Kunz and nursing professor Dolores Krieger, Ph.D., in the 1970s. Therapeutic Touch is drawn from ancient practices and used to balance and promote energy flow. The practitioner “accesses” the area where the body’s energy field is weak or congested, and then uses his or her hands to direct energy into the field to balance it. Nurses and other healthcare practitioners apply TT to relieve pain, stress and anxiety, and to promote wound healing. Learn more at TherapeuticTouch.org. Touch for Health (TFH): Created by Chiropractor John F. Thie in the 1970s, Touch for Health is a widely used kinesiology system aimed at restoring the body’s natural energies through acupressure, touch and massage. Muscle-testing biofeedback first identifies imbalances in the body’s energy flow to organs and glands; it is designed to then help rebalance that energy to improve overall health, while strengthening a person’s resistance to common ailments and physical complaints. Many TFH techniques can be successfully practiced by clients at home. Learn more at TouchForHealth.us. Trauma Touch Therapy (TTT): An innovative, somatic approach, TTT addresses the needs of those that have suffered trauma and abuse, including sexual or emotional, witnessing or being victimized by violent crime, battery, war or surgical trauma. The intent is to create a safe, nurturing environment in which the individual can slowly explore healthy touch and investigate sensation and feeling in their body. Certified therapists encourage empowerment and choice; individualized sessions support the psychotherapeutic process. Trigger Point Therapy (Myotherapy): This massage technique is used to relieve pain, similar to Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT). Practitioners apply pressure to specific “trigger points” on the body—tender, congested spots of muscle tissue that may radiate pain to other areas—in order to release tension and spasms. Treatment decreases the swelling and stiffness associated with muscular pain and increases range of motion. Learn more at MyofascialTherapy.org. Tui Na: A manipulative therapy integral to Traditional Chinese Medi20
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cine (TCM), tui na (“tui” means to push and “na” is a squeezing, lifting technique) that employs Taoist and martial arts principles to rebalance the body. Practitioners possess more than 365 hand techniques; most are variations of pressing, rubbing, waving, shaking, percussing or manipulating movements. Tui na is used to relieve arthritic joint pain, sciatica, muscle spasms and other pains in the back, neck and shoulders. It may also help ease chronic conditions such as insomnia, constipation, headaches and stress associated with tension. Learn more at Tui-Na.com. Watsu (Water Shiatsu): This uniquely nurturing therapy combines the acupressure and meridian stretches of Zen shiatsu with yoga-like postures, all performed in water; this takes weight off the vertebrae and allows for movements not possible on land. In the most basic move, the Water Breath Dance, the practitioner gently floats an individual in their arms, letting the person sink a little as they both breathe out, then allowing the water to lift them as they both breathe in. This connection is maintained in all the stretches and moves and returned to throughout the session. Pioneered by multilingual author Harold Dull in 1980, watsu’s goal is to free the spine and increase the flow of energy along the body’s meridians; he also developed tantsu, which replicates watsu’s nurturing stretches on land. Learn more at Watsu.com.
Zen Shiatsu: Founded by writer Shizuto Masunaga, this method of acupressure includes the practice of Buddhist meditation and integrates elements of shiatsu with the goal of rebalancing and revitalizing chi, or life-force energy. A client lies on a mat or sits in a chair, fully clothed, while the practitioner uses one hand to “listen” and the other to provide the appropriate pressure. Fullbody stretches and pressures may be used to release areas of chronic stagnation and blockage; clients are encouraged to breathe deeply into their lines of tension. Zen shiatsu can be effective in conditions where emotional disturbance or stress is an underlying factor. Zen-Touch Shiatsu: This hybrid of shiatsu, acupressure and Asian/ Eastern bodywork was created by American Seymour Koblin in 1984. It differs from other forms of shiatsu, including Zen shiatsu, by its combined use of light, or “hands off the body”, energy work and extensive, passive stretching methods. Practitioners apply gentle pressure while stretching the client’s limbs gradually, maintaining an attitude of compassion, respect and energetic empathy that serves to stimulate the flow of chi, aiding circulation and vitality. Learn more at SeymourKoblin.com. Zero Balancing: Developed by Fritz Smith, a doctor, osteopath and acupuncturist, zero balancing addresses the relationship between energy and structures of the body. Practitioners use moderate finger pressure and gentle traction on areas of tension in the bones, joints and soft tissue to create fulcrums, or points of balance, around which the body can relax and reorganize. The goal is to clear blocks in the body’s energy flow, amplify vitality and contribute to better postural alignment. Learn more at ZeroBalancing.com. Please note: The contents of this are for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used in place of a visit or consultation with a healthcare professional. Always seek out a practitioner that is licensed, certified or otherwise professionally qualified to conduct a selected treatment, as appropriate. Updated 2013
Acupuncture
A Natural Way to Support Fertility by Kindreth Hamilton
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lanning for a family should be a joyful event, full of hope and expectations, but for those that struggle with infertility, it can fraught with sadness and anxiety. Some of these aspiring parents turn to artificial reproductive technology (ART), including in-vitro fertilization (IVF)—a procedure that involves surgically removing eggs from a woman’s ovaries, combining them with sperm in the laboratory, and returning them to the woman’s body or donating them to another woman. A 2011 report by the Centers for Disease Control notes that the use of ART in the United States doubled during the previous decade, with more than 1 percent of all American infants born each year being conceived through such technology. Couples that are diagnosed with infertility are often eager to learn about additional therapies or lifestyle modifications that may enhance their fertility and the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. Acupuncture may be an answer. One of the oldest healing practices in the world, it is gaining popularity as a therapy to improve fertility. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific locations, called acupoints, that exist along defined pathways on the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, activation of acupoints can balance qi (energy) and blood flow to promote healing. Scientific studies have shown that the stimulation of acupoints elicits a response from the nervous and endocrine systems, causing the body to release natural opioids and endorphins. In the past, research had focused on acupuncture for pain relief, but more recent studies support its effectiveness for gynecologic diagnoses that can contribute to infertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles and endometriosis.
In a 2002 study published in the medical journal, Fertility and Sterility, researchers reported that acupuncture improved embryo implantation when performed before and after embryo transfer during an IVF cycle. Boston IVF and other clinics in the U.S. are now offering acupuncture to enhance infertility treatment outcomes. According to a study published in the , acupuncture assists in regulating a woman’s reproductive system by facilitating the release of neurotransmitters that influence reproductive hormones, ovulation and regulation of the menstrual cycle. Research shows that acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus and reduces physiological stress, which is often experienced with infertility. A 2009 CBS news story noted that couples are seeking complementary therapies like acupuncture to enhance their IVF success rates. Acupuncture offers a natural, non-invasive approach to enhancing fertility success by promoting hormone and circulatory balance. Whether an individual is planning an IVF cycle or attempting to conceive naturally, a helpful approach incorporates acupuncture treatments along with healthy dietary changes, relaxation techniques and gentle exercise, at least three months in advance. Taking these steps nurtures the body and helps create an optimal environment for conception. Kindreth Hamilton, LAc, MAOM, MS, is an acupuncturist and Chinese medicine herbalist at Hamilton Natural Medicine, LLC, in South Hadley. Her work focuses on supporting women’s health and individuals with chronic pain. For more information, call 413-535-9930 or visit HamiltonNaturalMedicine.com. See
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naturalpet
hile some cats are content to stay indoors, others want to go outside. Even if they remain in the yard, letting them out without a plan can put them in danger. Gently managing a cat’s outdoor experience can instead ensure a consistently safe, enjoyable time without worry or compromising its freedom. A few guidelines will help.
Houlihan, owner of The Cat Practice, in Birmingham, Michigan. “During the day, problems can include stray cats, hawks or loose dogs. Another danger is the movement of foxes, raccoons, coyotes and owls close to urban areas where the food supply is more plentiful. Elderly cats are particularly prone to harm. An enclosure is the best way to keep a cat safe outdoors.” Paris Permenter and John Bigley, bloggers at CatTipper.com, an online magazine for cat lovers, built a “catio” for daytime use by their felines. Located in Cedar Park, Texas, their four rescue cats need protection from coyotes. “It’s attached to our house, like a small screened porch,” explains Permenter. “The cats use an open window that’s fitted with a cat flap for access; we also have a humansized screened door, so that we can go in to clean the room. It’s enriched their lives and given a former community cat a better home, as well.” In Wheat Ridge, Colorado, Jane Dorsey, volunteer coordinator for the Cat Care Society, utilizes “habicats” both at the shelter and at home. Because her first cat, Chessie, was an escape artist, Dorsey decided to use a large dog pen (12 feet long by six feet tall) as an enclosure. Stood on end, it attaches to the house and has a weatherproof panel roof. A cat door leads to the kitchen. “Chessie’s personality improved because she was able to decide when to go in and out. For easy cleanup, we used pavers for flooring.” In lieu of safe garden access, experts suggest likewise setting aside a small area inside any enclosure for a pot of plants. Also, pet tents made by Sturdi Products and Kritter Kommunity facilitate more portable enclosures. Houlihan finds that, “In case of a sudden change in weather, the cat can avoid heat stroke or a scary storm.” Then there’s the live entertainment factor: “Cats love vertical space, so a cat tree or actual tree limb, properly anchored, can let him have a better view of birds, lizards, toads, chipmunks and squirrels without harming them,” she says. “It’s like kitty television.”
Make the Garden Safe
Go for a Walk
Outdoor Options for Feline Friends
Safe Ways to Let Them Explore by Sandra Murphy
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Cats love to chew on greenery, so set up a small pot or two or a small flat of grasses. Most cats enjoy munching on oat or wheat grasses and relish treats of fresh catnip and catmint. Marigolds can repel fleas and basil will both ward off mosquitoes and complement family meals. Many plants can be toxic. Veterinarian Jane Brunt, executive director of the nonprofit CATalyst Council, in Annapolis, Maryland, advises: “Make sure the plants in your garden are safe, in case your cat is tempted to taste anything. Say no to foxglove and lily species, since they’re poisonous to cats.” Find an extensive list of both safe and problem plants at . Note that aloe vera, asparagus fern, philodendron, dieffenbachia, tomatoes and many varieties of ivy are also among species that can cause consequences ranging from an upset stomach to kidney failure and even death, if ingested.
Protect from Predators
“Never leave a cat outdoors unattended,” says Dr. Cindy 22
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A mesh-enclosed stroller allows a cat to ride in safety while the walker burns calories. In case of a sudden noise or loose dog, the cat can’t escape. Houlihan also recalls a patient called Uti (pronounced YOU-tee), that was prone to chewing electrical cords. “His owners now take him outside for a daily stroll; he’s no longer bored and has quit chewing.” Adopted from a local shelter as a kitten, Makai also goes for accompanied walks. Due to heavy traffic near their Baltimore, Maryland, row home, Andrea Martin, a manager with Brand Public Relations, and her husband Nick, use a harness and leash to take her outside. “We often get the, ‘You’re taking your cat for a walk?’ look,” relates Martin, but that hasn’t stopped this adventurous team. “She likes taking a break from being indoors,” she explains. Make sure the harness fit is tight enough so the cat can’t wiggle out of it. With proper planning, any kitty can safely enjoy the great outdoors and the sun on its back. Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO.
inspiration
gestures that can make a big difference in another’s day.
Listening to Inner Wisdom
“I know how to do this.” When
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INSTINCTS TO HEED
by Dr. Judith Orloff
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istening to our instincts can help us stay safe and deal better with life-ordeath decisions. Making the most of the wisdom of this inner voice also enables us to live a more satisfying life in the moment. How do we choose which gut feelings to trust? Here are five messages we’ll be glad we paid attention to.
“Something feels wrong in my body.” Listening to our body’s subtle
signals is a critical part of exercising an intuitive sense. The body is a powerful intuitive communicator, delivering early warning signs when anything feels off, weak or just not right, so that we can address it sooner, rather than later.
“I’m in danger.” Social condition-
ing has helped to create unconscious beliefs that can cause flawed first impressions and ill-advised snap decisions; it’s vital that we check our subjective feelings against mental rationalizations. If some person or situation feels untrustworthy, pause to pay attention, even if the feeling might later be proved inaccurate.
“I want to help.” Evolution has in-
herently enabled us to quickly “read” faces and other emotional signals. For example, the sympathy instinct nudges us to change the subject when wedding talk makes a newly divorced colleague cringe or general conversation about past rough landings makes an airplane seatmate nervous—subtle
tempted to overthink something we know how to do, try a little therapeutic distraction, such as saying the alphabet backwards when a yoga teacher leads the class into a dreaded handstand. Briefly engaging the mind with something other than the task at hand can leave our instincts free to do their job and enjoy the fulfillment that diligent practice has made possible.
“This is it!” Most people have a great “I just knew it was right” story. It might be about the time they first spotted their sweetheart or crossed the threshold of their new house. When intuition signals that we’ve found something or someone truly right for us, the choice often becomes easy. It feels healthy and good, without resistance or conflict. Using our instincts helps lead us to smart choices that improve our quality of life. international bestseller Second Sight, upon which these tips are based. An assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California-Los of traditional medicine with cuttingedge knowledge of intuition and energy medicine. For more inspiration, visit
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De-Cluttering greenliving TIPS by Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman
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ife changes constantly. Couples get married and have children; then, the kids get older and they go to college. Jobs change and people retire. As needs and living spaces evolve, many homeowners fail to realize that household items and systems are no longer functional; they are baffled by how their home has become so cluttered. If a home is no longer working the way it used to, it can be helpful to step back and look at the systems currently in place; they may need some tweaking. Start by examining the space and decide what is being used and what is not. Are sippy cups nesting in bowls within kitchen cabinets, even though the kids are older now? Is paperwork from a previous job displacing the room needed for more current files? Are closets, the garage and storage areas still overflowing despite a relocation to a smaller, downsized home? Begin a decluttering strategy by working in small increments of time to avoid becoming discouraged. Review possessions and decide which items to keep and which to donate or sell. Then analyze how things are stored and organized and adjust these systems as needed, in order to maximize space or make room for any necessary additions. Try to think outside of the “big box” when making donations. Area senior centers usually appreciate gently used puzzles, games and craft items, and smaller, more focused, local charities may better utilize donations—the list on the next page includes several worthy organizations that are grateful recipients of household goods and clothing. Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman is the owner of The Clutter Doctor, Inc. For more info, visit ClutterDoctor.com.
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Clutter-Taming Tips
Save Time, Money and Sanity by April Thompson
Labels abound: pack rat, clutter bug and hoarder. Just the thought of confessing that our clutter needs conquering can inspire shame, anxiety and dread. It helps to remember that it’s human to accumulate, divine to purge.
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e’re hardwired to be hunters and gatherers and feather our nests, but you have to consider the life energy you spend maintaining all those things. The trade-off is often huge,” says home organizing expert Barbara Tako, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, author of Clutter Clearing Choices. Seventy percent of Americans feel buried under their clutter and can’t decide what to give up, according to an online poll by award-winning organizer Julie Morgenstern, of New York City. She has found that while the clutter may be physical, the process of shedding it is 80 percent mental. “Decluttering is identifying what is obsolete in your life and releasing it to make room to move forward,” advises the author of Shed your Stuff, Change your Life. “Ask yourself, what am I clearing space for—more family time, a social life or inner peace?” That higher goal is a touchstone for what to keep and what to pitch.
Following are common clutter-based roadblocks and tips from professional organizers on how to get around them.
I’m so overwhelmed I don’t know where to start. Tako en-
courages clients to start with the visible clutter, such as junk accumulated in an entryway, and take 10 to 15 minutes to tackle the area. “People are always surprised by how much they can accomplish in a short time,” she comments. Morgenstern recommends making a checklist, starting with the areas with the most obsolete stuff and the least sentimental attachments. “The first one is the hardest, but you’ll probably find a lot of opened space if you can get through a few areas; then there is a cascading effect as you move forward.”
I know I have too much stuff, but it all has sentimental value. Morgenstern recommends us-
ing tools to manage memories, such as photographing an object that represents
a person, and then using that photo as a contact icon on your phone. She suggests considering, “Is this the best representation of that person or time of my life, or just another example?�
I might need this someday.
Tako encourages people to enlist a clutter buddy, “an objective set of eyes who will set you straight when you hold up a skirt that’s out of style.â€? Morgenstern suggests asking, “What is more important to me‌ this object I don’t have any immediate need for or the space I’ll have by getting rid of it?â€?
I don’t have time to declutter now. Morgenstern acknowl-
edges most people are “time-starved�, and cleaning out their closets is the last thing they want to do with precious free time. Yet clutter costs us time and money because, “You end up losing things, wasting valuable real estate and
replacing things you forgot you had,� she notes. It also hinders our ability to focus and process information, because visual clutter divides and competes for a person’s limited attention span, according to a recent study by the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute. For more motivation, imagine the joy of finding buried treasure. Morgenstern reports that nearly all of her clients find some form of funds, whether uncashed checks, objects with resale value or cash.
I sorted piles a few months ago and now they’re back. Los Angeles organizer and blogger John Trosko encourages people to be upfront with loved ones about holidays and special occasions, asking that they curtail gifts and instead give non-tangible forget-me-nots like gift certificates or favorite services. Trosko also suggests making a list before shopping and steering clear of megastores to keep impulse
Recycling and Donation Venues A
ccording to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, state residents recycle more than 500,000 tons each year. This is made possible with the help of more than 1,400 Massachusetts businesses that collect, process or use these materials to manufacture new products. National organizations with local chapters are also a good resource for donated goods.
COMMUNITY SURVIVAL CENTER 240 Main Street, Indian Orchard 413-543-3930 CommunitySurvivalCenter.org
spending in check. Tako and Trosko both discourage purchasing “unitaskers� such as a salad spinner that takes up significant space but rarely get used. Another good rule of thumb is, “one in, one out,� discarding something every time we purchase a new item. Even armed with the best decluttering tips, the process can seem daunting. Morgenstern encourages us to suspend self-judgment while weeding through possessions and keep remembering our higher goals. “Your stuff is a reflection of who you are and what you aspire to,� she notes. “It’s a challenge to get it all in alignment, but an incredible opportunity, too.�
contact the National Association of
Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com. HOLYOKE CAREER CLOSET
Holyoke Community College Kittridge Center for Business and Workforce Development, Room 207 303 Homestead Avenue, Holyoke t HolyokeCareerCloset.com Provides eligible individuals with appropriate clothing for job interviews or internships. Accepts clean, ready-to-wear, interview-appropriate clothing for men and women. Donations of non-work clothing can be brought to one of Providence Ministries for the Needy’s other projects: St. Jude’s Clothing Center, at 56 Cabot Street, or Mother Mary’s Thrift Store, at 364 High Street, both in Holyoke.
Assists the hungry and homeless via a food pantry and the Bridge of Hope thrift store. Accepts clean, usable household goods and clothing.
KENS’ EYEWEAR, INC.
COMPUTERS FOR SCHOOLS
Four regional stores accept drop-off donations of used eyeglasses. Visit the website for addresses and hours.
An association of computer refurbishers that reconditions donated computer equipment for education use and places it in schools.
KNACK
KensEyewearInc.com
PCsForSchools.org
Knack.org
CRAIG’S LIST
WesternMass.CraigslList.org/sss/ Offers free online listings for individuals to sell or give away a wide range of household goods.
ECOBUILDING BARGAINS
83 Warwick Street, Springfield t EcoBuildingBargains.org/donate Accepts building materials in good to excellent condition. Call ahead before bringing in potential donations to make sure the organization can use them.
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES
Goodwill.org/get-involved/donate/ Lists Goodwill Industries locations that take donations of newer televisions and computers.
GREATER SPRINGFIELD HABITAT FOR HUMANITY – CARS FOR HOMES 104 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield 413-739-5503 or 1-877-277-4344 HabitatSpringfield.org
Accepts used cars, trucks, RVs, boats and other vehicles with a clear title and will tow the vehicle away, free of charge. Make arrangements at CarsForHomes.com. Donors receive an acknowledgement letter and should check with the IRS or a tax advisor about tax deductibility.
A creative reuse center that is opening at Eastworks, in Easthampton this July. Knack posts an online materials list of the clean, reusable items it seeks and accepts. Among them are paper products, hardware and tools, art and craft supplies and a host of odds and ends—corks, game pieces, frames, CDs, containers and more.
THE MONTAGUE BOOKMILL
440 Greenfield Road, Montague t MontagueBookmill.com Accepts donations of gently used hardcover books.
REUSE MARKETPLACE ReuseMarketplace.org
Free regional network for selling, trading or giving away surplus material.
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healingways
Eighty percent of cancer cases are caused by environmental and food carcinogens. ~National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
SGentle PRING DETOX Natural Cleansing Works Best by Linda Sechrist
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o secure optimum performance, maximize lifespan and maintain the warranty of vehicles, knowledgeable drivers follow the regular maintenance needs recommended in the owner’s manual. Similarly, many health practitioners, integrative physicians and chiropractors suggest that periodically cleansing the body’s inside works—flushing toxins and enabling the digestive process and organs like the liver and kidney to rest and reset—aids in maintaining, restoring and optimizing health. Whether seeking a dramatic cleanup and clearing out or a simple tune-up, a natural, detoxifying cleanse eliminates accumulations of unwanted substances. Doctor of Chiropractic and Nutritionist Linda Berry, of Albany, California, and Brenda Watson, ReNew Life founder and a certified nutritional consultant from Clearwater, Florida, are recognized authorities on the subject. Berry’s Internal Cleansing and Watson’s series of six books on digestive health that began with stress that the process may be both a missing link in Western nutrition and a key to returning Americans to health. They both believe that specific medical concerns—including allergies, arthritis, elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders and body pains—are directly related to toxicity, which responds well to gentle detoxification. Their suggestions for reducing the overload based on 60 years of combined experience include eliminating pro-inflammatory processed foods, alcohol, coffee, refined sugars and bad fats; increasing daily intake of healthy, organic, fiber-rich foods; and gently cleansing at least twice a year, using a natural approach.
How to Begin
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the onset of spring and fall suggest appropriate times for internal cleans26
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ing. Although strictly protein drink fasts are not encouraged, a minimum of 20 grams of high-quality protein should be consumed daily. Read labels and pick a sugarless protein powder. A simple one-day, weekend or seven-day cleanse for experienced or inexperienced individuals begins every morning with a total body dry skin brushing prior to showering, and then drinking a minimum of 10, eight-ounce glasses of water throughout the day. This includes a tasty green juice drink, followed by an eight-ounce glass of water for breakfast, lunch and a healthy afternoon snack. Watson’s favorite green cleansing recipe consists of liquefying one-and-a-half cucumbers, two stalks of celery, half a Granny Smith apple, a handful of spinach or any other type of green vegetable, a few sprigs of parsley and a tiny piece of lemon. Then, an hour after breakfast and lunch, sip a cup of herbal tea, take two or three capsules of spirulina and two capsules of omega-3. For dinner, liquefy one teaspoon of red miso paste in eight ounces of hot water and add five sprigs of wakame seaweed. “To fight hunger during the day, drink more water with lemon or ginger, warm herbal tea or green juices,” advises Watson. To increase fiber intake, Berry suggests placing ingredients in a VitaMix or the more affordable NutriBullet, which pulverizes everything added, even whole flax seeds. Juicers, which are harder to clean after using, separate the liquid from the fibrous pulp, which human intestines need to create at least two daily bowel movements. Add oat or rice bran, citrus pectin or other natural fibers as a bulk agent. A natural, non-chlorinated water enema using simple home apparatus available at local stores can also be incorporated into the regimen, as necessary, “An enema [initially] affects only the intestine’s lower third, so hold in the room-temperature water for five to 15 minutes, if possible,” suggests Berry.
What to Avoid
Safe, over-the-counter solutions for colon cleansing generally promote colon health and can nicely supplement a fast. Avoid products that contain senna leaf and cascara sagrada, which are potent laxatives. Watson and Berry don’t recommend rigid “crash and burn” cleanses, such as those consisting solely of protein drinks or raw juices or lemon juice and water with maple syrup and cayenne pepper. “It’s better to cleanse gently with fresh green juices with meals consisting of brown rice and either raw, lightly steamed or roasted vegetables,” counsels Watson. “Any detox program, if followed by eating whatever you want, not only doesn’t work, it has consequences,” adds Berry, who strongly advises easing back into a sensible diet after a cleanse. She notes that one client became ill from breaking her detox with a meal of barbeque ribs and beer. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. She writes on why we are better together at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NAWestMA.com (within advertising section).
THURSDAY, MAY 2
SUNDAY, MAY 5
ARMHER at Spring Fair – 11am-2pm. Tower
Cinco de Mayo
Crystal Healer Training Level 1 – Thursday, May 2-Aug 6. 6-9pm. Take a journey as we study the healing properties of 25 different crystals and how they affect the body mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally. Learn to place crystals on and around the body to redirect energy, clear blockages and increase energy. Included in this workshop, sampling crystals,
Umeboshi Tea Umeboshi plums, termed “the king of alkaline foods”, are a species of apricots from Japan. A pickled fruit, they have a sour and salty flavor. Drinking umeboshi tea alkalizes the blood and works to relieve fatigue, nausea and indigestion while restoring energy. Makes 1 cup. Drink one a day for one month. 1 umeboshi plum, rinse 1 cup purified water 1 /2 2 or 3 drops tamari or gluten-free tamari 1. Remove seed from the plum. Cut remaining plum into small pieces or mash. 2. Place plum pieces, water and kuzu in a small sauce pan. Stir or whisk to dissolve the powder. It will look like milk with pink bumps. 3. Stir while heating at medium temperature for 3 to 5 minutes or until liquid turns clear and appears a little thicker. Turn off heat. 4. Add tamari drops and stir gently. Drink while hot. Watson.
deposit required. For more info & to register, Lisa
FRIDAY, MAY 3 Food Forest Farm – 1-2pm, Fridays & Saturdays. Tour to focus on how to grow a home edible garden. person. To schedule tour & directions, Jonathan – May Basic, Intermediate and Advanced can be earned. and pre-registration holds your space. Total cost
MELT Method MELT Method works by keeping the connective
MONDAY, MAY 6 Western Mass Clutter Support Group – 6:157:15pm. This group is for individuals looking for a supportive environment to be used in conjunction with, and not take the place of, a professional debilitating. Round table discussion. Sponsored by Clutter Doctor Inc. Free. Meeting held at Redstone Rehab, 135 Benton Dr, E Longmeadow. For more info, Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman: 413-525-7345.
TUESDAY, MAY 7 National Teachers Day
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 Iris Day
Michelle A. McCarthy, IET-MT: 413-737-9443 or
Flexible Farmer – 4-6pm. UMass. See news brief, page 5.
Meditation Wilson. Take part in a discussion. Both beginners and experienced meditators welcome. Free. The -
Green Night nity announcements, presentation, wrap-up, green drinks. Take part in a discussion. Open to public. No registration required. Free. Clarion Hotel, 1 Atwood Dr. Northampton. Alexandra Risley Sch-
BetterLifeWholeFoods.com.
GreenConsortium.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 4
THURSDAY, MAY 9
Healer Heal yourself and others with the empowered angelic energy of the Violet Ray. Get the “issues out of your tissues” as
Green Drinks professionals and public servants interested in sustainability, renewable energy, all things green, the environment and the new Green Movement.
deposit required. For more info & to register, Lisa with Stan Baker
by Hilltown families to participate in hands-on service projects for all ages to support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Stations include: Bird House Building sponsored by Franklin
to make a family garden plot or container facilitated
facilitated by Northampton HS Key Club. Held at Leeds Elementary, Northampton. Registration Families.org or HilltownFamilies.WorldPress.com.
WE STILL ON? Call ahead to confirm that the event details haven’t changed and tell them you saw it in Natural Awakenings of Western Mass. natural awakenings
May 2013
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tal Healing Arts including Acupuncture and Chinese
YMCA Open House for Holyoke Urban Bike Shop – 12-3pm. For more info, Liz Budd, Community Wellness Coordinator, Holyoke YMCA: 413-534-5631 x 114. Clear your Clutter the Feng Shui Way Informative Lecture Shui practitioner will be speaking at the Sixtenn
FRIDAY, MAY 10 When the Body Says No: Stress and Mind-Body tional self-expression is a key factor in regaining or maintaining physical health. By combining lectures, guided self-exploration, and mindful-awareness practices, this workshop enhances compassionate self-understanding. Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, 57 Interlaken Rd, Stockbridge. To register:
markyourcalendar SATURDAY, MAY 11 Mom and Me MELT Workshop MELT Method works by keeping the connective
SUNDAY, MAY 12 Mother’s Day
SUNDAY, MAY 19
MONDAY, MAY 13
– May 1924. With John Bagnulo, Kathie Madonna Swift and Lisa B. Nelson. Supported by an exceptional team of health and mind-body specialists, learn and practice nutritional and lifestyle changes that will help you prevent, better manage, and even reverse diabetes. Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, 57
– 9am-5pm. Learn to harness the Universal Life Force Energy for self-healing. getic attunement that enables you to facilitate Reiki for yourself, your loved ones, friends and pets. In addition, will give and receive a full Reiki session. Heart Healing Connection, 299 Walnut St (above Block Jewelers), Agawam. For more info & to register, Michelle A McCarthy, REI, IET-MT: 413-
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 Self-Care Yoga: Gentle Day of Renewal and ReconTo register: 413-562-3627. See news brief, page 7.
BioMat Open House BioMat is today’s light technology that incorporates Far Infrared Rays, Negative Ions and Amethyst crystals. Detoxify the body, relax, de-stress, reduce
to try a session. The Heart to Heart Healing Connection, 299 Walnut St, (above Block Jewelers), Agawam. For more info & to register, Michelle A McCarthy, REI, IET-MT: 413-737-9443 or TheHow to Curb the Sugar Cravings – 6:45pm. With Becky Castro, CPCC, PCC. Learn how to conquer
GROW
413-234-0024
Long Meddowe Days on Town Green – 12-5pm. More info: LongMeddoweDays.org. – rageously. Ingleside Therapeutic Massage and Yoga, 415 Ingleside St, Rte 5, Holyoke. Info: 413-313-5769.
MONDAY, MAY 20 Annual Town Meeting, East Longmeadow – 7pm. East Longmeadow. EastLongmeadowMA.gov. See news brief, page 7. – 7pm. meadow. See news brief, page 7.
TUESDAY, MAY 21 – 7pm. See news brief, page 7.
prompt for password, enter, 973173#. For more info, See news brief, page 5.
WEDNESDAY. MAY 29
THURSDAY, MAY 16
THURSDAY, MAY 30
Love a Tree Day
FRIDAY, MAY 17 Bike to Work Day
For more info about advertising and how to participate in Natural Awakenings of Western Mass, call
Build on the foundation of basic training with the empowerment to pull energy imprints out of required. For more info & to register, Lisa Wilson:
National Women’s Check-Up Day
SATURDAY, MAY 11
Intermediate Level Integrated Energy Thera-
SATURDAY, MAY 18 Long Meddowe Days on Town Green – 9am-5pm. Tim Page 5K run. More info: LongMeddoweDays.org.
markyourcalendar SATURDAY, MAY 18 – 9am-1pm. Attend an upcoming workshop to get
Learn About Composting Day
Understanding The Root Cause of Children’s Soby Dr. Megan Hudson, Executive Director of Brain at Sylvester’s, 111 Pleasant St, Northampton. Limited
markyourcalendar FRIDAY, MAY 31 – May 31-June 1. 6pm. Relay fundraiser event for the American Cancer Society. Opening ceremony, survivor lap, caregiver lap, opening lap, luminara ceremony, Also includes family games, activities and enter-
in affiliation with the Graduate Theological Family Institute, West Hartford, CT. To register:
28
Western Mass
NAWestMA.com
hotmail.com. For details on teams, participants,
ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NAWestMA.com (within advertising section).
sunday
senior, veterans, teen discounts available. SerenSerenityYogaStudio.net.
Draw from ancient traditions and make it relevant to modern life, focusing on healing, growth, opening, connecting, working towards embodied wholeness and relaxation, while feeling grounded and centered.
All Levels Yoga experience and ability welcome. The instructor will offer options for beginners as well as more challeng-
94 Chicopee St, Chicopee. For more info: 413-592-
student, senior, veterans, teen discounts available. Serenity Yoga, 15 College St, S Hadley. 413-563-
This mixed-level Pilates class will focus on develan environment to create functional strength that improves the movement of the body in everyday life through both gentle and strenuous exercise. Yoga, 4 Open Square Way, Studio 221, Holyoke. 413-519-4966. VegaYoga.com.
monday MELT pain and reverses the negative effects of aging. Highly encourage attending an Intro workshop -
Yoga Level I-II students, both Advanced Beginners (students that have been attending a Level I class for a minimum of one year) and Intermediate students that have a good understanding of alignment. All types of asana (poses) practiced including inversions and arm balances. Helps to build strength, endurance
Massage, 415 Ingleside St, Rte 5, Holyoke. Held (weather permitting) at Holyoke Boat House, Jones Ferry. 413-313-5769. MassageTherapyoga.com.
tuesday – 6am. Also Thurs, 7:15am. Done in bare feet, the workout comprises a formatted is as philosophical and psychological as it is physical. With Kate O’Donnell from Paper City Fitness classes. Held at Vega Yoga Studio, Open Square, Holyoke. 413-214-4777. PaperCityFitness.com. Yoga Level I-II students, both Advanced Beginners (students that have been attending a Level I class for a minimum of several months) and Intermediate students that have a good understanding of alignment. All types of asana (poses) practiced including inversions and arm balances. Helps to build strength, endurance
t’ai chi is the most dynamic and athletic. One of its unique attributes in relationship to other styles is its emphasis on “spiraling” energy, called Reeling the generation of energy that greatly enhances health and longevity. Instructed by Stan Baker, Licensed
thursday – 5:45-7:15pm. tures may be offered. Students are recommended senior, veterans, teen discounts available. SerenSerenityYogaStudio.net. Learn bellydance basics, including posture, hip and
Massage, 415 Ingleside St, Rte 5, Holyoke. Held (weather permitting) at Holyoke Boat House, Jones Ferry. 413-313-5769. MassageTherapyoga.com.
wednesday Intermediate Flow ately challenging, creative, fun, Vinyasa flow
shimmies. Also learn a short sequence of steps to practice at home or try at the next dance party. So 4 Open Square Way, Studio 221, Holyoke. 413-5194966. VegaYoga.com. MELT and reverses the negative effects of aging. Highly encourage attending an Intro workshop before
natural awakenings
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communityresourceguide friday MELT Method Strength Class – 4-4:45pm. Dropin, no need to register. Highly encourage attending an Intro workshop before attending ongoing strength
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAWestMA.com to request a media kit. ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE OF GREATER HARTFORD & SPRINGFIELD
BalanceTotalBody.com. – 5-6pm. Featuring music from 4 decades, this dance class will get your feet moving, heart pumping and calories burning. This easy-tofollow class is great for new and experienced dancers alike and can be done at low or high intensity. Must have dedicated indoor shoes. Outdoor shoes classes. LifeDance Studios, 22 Cherry St, 2nd Fl, Friday Night Flow appropriately challenged and rewarded with some student, senior, veterans, teen discounts available. Serenity Yoga, 15 College St, S Hadley. 413-563-
saturday dant Wellness Center, 94 Chicopee St, Chicopee. For Yoga: All Levels For those new to yoga and those that are learning the poses and alignment. Primary focus on opening the shoulders and hips and focusing on the breath. An introduction to asana (poses) including standing poses, hip openers, backbends, forward bends classes. Ingleside Yoga and Massage, 415 Ingleside St, Rte 5, Holyoke. Held (weather permitting) at Holyoke Boat House, Jones Ferry. 413-313-5769. MassageTherapyoga.com. Beginner Yoga class with careful attention to detail and alignment in
Stan Baker, LAc, Dipl. Ac. Integrative Health Group 1502 Allen St (Bicentennial Plaza) Springfield, MA 01118 t "DVQVODUVSF4UBO#BLFS DPN Thirty years experience in the Oriental healing arts and specializing in difficult cases. Presently he uses in his practice the major modalities of Chinese medicine: acupuncture, herbal medicine, Chinese dietetics, Chinese massage and bodywork. See ad, page 17.
HAMILTON NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC
Kindreth Hamilton, LAc, MAOM, MS Stephanie Mattrey, LAc, MATCM, Diplm.OM 27 College St, Ste 201, S Hadley, MA 01075 t )BNJMUPO/BUVSBM.FEJDJOF DPN We are committed to providing compassionate and individualized care for the treatment of chronic pain and women’s health issues. Insurance accepted. Complimentary consultations are available.
ENERGY HEALING Lisa Wilson, RMT, IET-MI Crystal Master/Teacher Integrative Health Group 1502 Allen St, Bicentennial Plaza Springfield, MA 01118 t "OHFMJD4UPOFT OFU Support your personal healing journey through personalized private energy healing sessions and transformative self-healing service schedule. See ad, page 21.
THE HEART TO HEART HEALING CONNECTION
Michelle A. McCarthy, RMT, IET-MI/Trainer 299 Walnut St, 2nd Fl, Agawam, MA 01001 t )FBSU )FBSU)FBMJOH DPN
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Western Mass
Learn what everyone has been talking about. Harness the energy of all that is Universal Life Force to heal yourself and others. Call or service schedule. See ad, page 21.
NAWestMA.com
Alan R. Druckenmiller, Registered Representative/Advisory Associate t "%SVDLFONJMMFS!DGJFNBJM DPN LifePathFS.com help us with the real purpose we have – to live meaningful and healthy lives. As you travel your life path, let us help you travel it values, your goals, your needs and your dreams. We listen, we learn, we labor for you.
FENG SHUI FENG SHUI FOR HOME & BUSINESS Susan LaForte Certified Feng Shui Practitioner 413-253-0722 4VTBO'FOH4IVJ!:BIPP DPN FengShuiWesternMass.com
Wake up your home with the timeless wisdom of feng shui. A practical, effective energizing approach that will improve your space, improve your mood, improve your life.
ANGELIC STONES
teen discounts available. Serenity Yoga, 15 College
please recycle
FINANCIAL HEALTH LIFE PATH FINANCIAL SERVICES
FITNESS BALANCE TOTAL BODY – MELT METHOD Kerrie Bodendorf Agawam, Westfield, Southampton, MA 413-579-7870 #BMBODF5PUBM#PEZ!DPNDBTU OFU BalanceTotalBody.com
Reduce joint pain and muscle tension with self-treatment that re-hydrates connective tissue and alig n s jo in ts f o r p ain - f r ee movement. Feel immediate response in your body.
GREEN ENERGY VIRIDIAN ENERGY - POWER WITH PURPOSE Deborah Whitford Independent Associate 28362 413-658-4147 %FCPSBI 8IJUGPSE!DPNDBTU OFU Viridian.com/Whitford
Cleaner energy at affordable prices for homes and small businesses. Your utility, greener supply. Sign-up is fast, easy and free. Sustainable fundraising See ad, page 12.
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HEALTHY KIDS BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTER OF WEST SPRINGFIELD Dr. Megan Hudson, Center Director 1472 Riverdale St West Springfield, MA 01089 (In Planet Fitness shopping plaza) 413-737-KIDS (5437) BrainBalanceWestSpringfield.com BrainBalanceCenters.com
The Brain Balance ProgramÂŽ is an individualized and comprehensive after-school program to help children with neuro-behavioral and learning difficulties surmount their unique challenges.
HYDROPONICS NEW ENGLAND HYDROPONICS
15 College Hwy (Rte 10) Southampton, MA 01073 413-529-9025 4BMFT!/&)ZESP DPN t /&)ZESP DPN We have a great selection of low-priced hydroponics and soil-gardening supplies for all types of gardeners. We are an authorized reseller for many different brands including some of the industry’s most trusted and innovative companies. New England Hydroponics has everything you need to start a hydroponic or soil-based indoor garden, right in your own home. See ad, page 29.
MASSAGE PILLARS MASSAGE
Michelle Grassi Chicopee, Southampton, Southwick, MA t 1JMMBST.BTTBHF DPN We provide therapeutic massage and energy work for the enhancement of health and wellbeing to health-minded individuals. We are dedicated to provide our clients with nurturing treatments and continuing education to promote relaxation and self-healing. See ad on page 6 and spotlight on page 11.
ORGANIZATIONAL SOLUTIONS
THE CLUTTER DOCTOR, INC.
COMING IN JUNE
Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman East Longmeadow, MA 01028 t $MVUUFS%PDUPS DPN Take steps to increase your for organizational problems. Solutions to manage your time and space that will simplify your life. See article, page 24.
PERSONAL PROTECTION
Be happier, healthier and infused with well-being.
ARMHER
Love Her – Protect Her – ArmHer Deborah Halpin PO Box 6414, Springfield, MA 01101 877-403-3288 %FC!"SN)FS OFU t "SN)FS OFU We offer effective and affordable products to protect women from crime. Visit our website for personal, auto and home safety, as well as potentially lifesaving tips. The perfect gift anytime: The Gift of Protection. See ad, page 7.
Discover fresh ways to live an inspired life.
YOGA SERENITY YOGA
Michele Lyman 15 College St, S Hadley, MA 01075 413-563-3678 *OGP!4FSFOJUZ:PHB4UVEJP OFU SerenityYogaStudio.net Serenity Yoga is a peaceful, cozy environment where the focus is on accessible classes, skilled teachers and the health and wellness of the community. Serenity Yoga offers a variety of ongoing classes that include gentle and beginner yoga, moderate yoga, yoga for teens and advanced Vinyasa yoga. For the full schedule, call or visit the website. See ad, page 12.
People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~Maya Angelou
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