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Getting and Staying Healthy in a Toxic World
Dynamic Duo Combining Chiropractic and Acupuncture Energizes Health
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Cities that ‘Get It’ Are Pursuing Sustainability
Acupuncture
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October 2014 | Washington, D.C. Edition | NaturalAwakeningsDC.com natural awakenings
October 2014
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Your Path to Healing Starts Here a n i n t e g r at i v e a p p r o a c h t o yo u r h e a lt h GeorGe WashinGton Center for inteGrative MediCine offers you a unique health care program principled in science and tradition where the patient is treated as a whole person and respected as an individual. With your visit to the Center, a highly-trained practitioner—licensed, certified and credentialed in his or her specialty—will develop with you a care plan tailored to fit your needs and honors your personal healing process. natural & inteGrative health ChoiCes W e prov i de C a r e f o r …
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Medicine-free cholesterol management detoxification Healthy aging and healthy weight loss plus many other innovative therapies
this Month’s featured providers Marianna ledenaC, nd – adult and pediatric naturopathy, Weight loss
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What others are saYinG about GeorGe WashinGton Center for inteGrative MediCine: “People who work here are compassionate. I feel like I am part of a big family. Very different from other doctors’ offices. Here you have a chance to spend time and talk through the issues.” – S.A. “Extremely impressed with the conversation that I had during my initial consultation. It is the holistic approach I have been searching for some time.” – B.L.
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g n i v i L y h t Heal Expo g Free Admission g Free Talks
g Lots of fun for the whole family More than 40 Exhibitors! • Wellness Practitioners •Green Products •Demos • Samples •Organic Foods •Pet Supplies • Seated Massage •Reiki •Yoga • Meditation • Talks from leading and local practitioners • Demos to make your own healthy skin-care products
Everything you need to live a healthy and balanced life!
Natural Awakenings is Washington DC’s green, healthy living magazine. For more information, visit us at: HealthyLivingExpoDC.com
Dawson’s Market is a locally focused, independent, market – celebrating community through local and organic food.
Sunday, October 12 • 12 to 4 pm Indoors and out at Dawson’s Market and VisArts in the 4
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letterfrompublisher Welcome colorful October, contact us Publisher, Editor in Chief Robin Fillmore Contributing Editors Grace Ogden Jessica Bradshaw Terri Carr Design & Production Irene Sankey Marketing Director Beverly Nickerson Regional Coordinators Cecelia Gordian Outreach Director Samantha Hudgins Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C. Phone: 202-505-4835 Fax: 202-827-7955 5230 Tuckerman Lane North Bethesda, MD 20852 Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com NaturalAwakeningsDC.com ©2014 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 NaturalAwakeningsDC.com.
I love being in the heart of autumn, with leaves in that perfect spot between the full green of summer and the bare branches of the winter. This is a wonderful time to quiet the mind and revel in the midst of the beauty around us. While we don’t have the full-blown color change of Vermont trees, there are so many spots throughout D.C. to witness the depths of fall leaves, in all their glory. Typically, we are buzzing around so fast that we can’t enjoy these fleeting days before the cold sets in. I have noticed recently that as I speak with others in the community, including friends and family, that the typical response to the query, “How are you?” is usually, “Really busy.” I admit that tends to be my go-to answer as well these days. There is always a deadline, a call to make, a trip to the store, just one more email to answer—you know the drill. Are we busy because we want to be or are we busy because that is the new norm? Is this hyper busy state sustainable? I can’t answer that for you, my friends, but I believe it is a question worth asking. The question of sustainability is one being asked of cities, of late, and the feature article of the October issue of Natural Awakenings. We are blessed here in the greater D.C. area to have many communities committed to creating a sustainable infrastructure that benefits not only the current residents but also the generations to come. Along with the feature on sustainable cities, I offer a short profile of some of the efforts by the District, Alexandria and Bethesda. I encourage you to get involved (if you have time) with your local initiatives. This issue, we also feature acupuncture, as an expanding trend in the health care field in the U.S. My first foray into acupuncture was a wonderful experience. I was dealing with a frozen shoulder. My orthopedist told me that recovery would take a minimum of four months with intense physical therapy, but more likely I was looking at six months of therapy, up to three times a week. I am way too busy for that (see above) so I decided this was a good time to seek an alternative. Acupuncture and massage cupping, which was also performed by my acupuncturist, were the correct choice. In only three months, the functionality of my shoulder was nearly 100 percent. It worked for me and has worked for thousands of years for so many others. In this issue, we offer a number of articles about the science behind acupuncture and the conditions for which this treatment is so effective. Finally, please join us at Natural Awakenings’ first Healthy Living Expo (HealthyLivingExpoDC.com) in Rockville Town Square on October 12. We’ve teamed up with Dawson’s Market and a lot of great healthcare practitioners, producers of green, delicious and healthy products and WithLove DC, who will be leading meditation and yoga in the square throughout the day. It’s all free and you are invited! Peace-
Natural Awakenings practices environmental sustainability by using post-consumer recycled paper and soy-based ink on uncoated stock, avoiding the toxic chemicals and huge energy costs of producing shiny, coated paper that is harder to recycle.
neverglossy.alwaysgreen 6
Washington, D.C.
Robin Fillmore, Publisher
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
contents 13 8 newsbriefs 12 kudos 13 healthbriefs 16 globalbriefs 19 eventspotlight 27 research
spotlight health 16 31 spotlight 35 oneonone 36 consciouseating 37 womenshealth 42 practitioner spotlight 19 44 community spotlight 46 firstperson 47 localhero 48 calendar 54 resourceguide
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 202-505-4835 or email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.
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.
20 SUSTAINABLE Urban America is Going Green in a Big Way by Christine MacDonald
24 SUSTAINABILITY
IN OUR LOCAL CITIES
The D.C. Area is Known Nationally For Innovative Sustainability Efforts by Robin Fillmore
26 ACUPUNCTURE FOR PAIN, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY by Dr. Craig D. Sanford
28 DYNAMIC DUO
Combining Chiropractic and Acupuncture Energizes Health by Kathleen Barnes
30 DETOX FOR LIFE
32
Getting and Staying Healthy in a Toxic World by Dr. Chas Gant, M.D., Ph.D.
32 TRICK & TREAT
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events online: NaturalAwakeningsDC.com within the advertising section. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.
34 AIRWAVES ACTIVIST
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
26
Can Acupuncture Replace Medication?
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com. Deadline for editorial, news briefs and health briefs are due by the 10th.
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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CITYSCAPES
Host a Halloween that’s Natural, Healthy and Cost-Conscious by Avery Mack
Public Radio’s Steve Curwood Empowers Listeners to Aid Planet Earth
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by Randy Kambic
40 WHY GET
ACUPUNCTURE? Understanding How It Works
by Dr. Deborah Norris and Jessie Norris
natural awakenings
October 2014
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newsbriefs Lumalight Color & Geometry Course Illuminates Northern Virginia
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ulianne Bien, developer and owner of Spectrahue Light & Sound Inc., Canada, and local acupuncturist, Julie Rose Ruby of Springfield, are offering a revolutionary two-day experience from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 6 and 7 in Northern Virginia that includes advanced Spectrahue Color Harmonics teachings. The weekend course will give participants the opportunity to experience sacred geometry with color light acupuncture techniques described in Bien’s books, Golden Light a Journey with Advanced Colorworks, Vibration and Thought: Blueprints of Life, Lumalight Chromatic Essentials, and Lumalight and Essential Oils—her most recent release. “Many years ago I was inspired to develop a professional color therapy delivery system for professional and home use, which led to the creation of the Lumalight system, and its educational component, The Spectrahue Color Harmonics System,” Bien says. “During the workshop, you will discover the scientific foundation of my work, the spiritual benefits of color light applications, and experience my latest discoveries of color and geometry protocols, activations and meditations, acupuncturists, massage therapists, aroma therapists, energy workers, wellness spas, holistic animal care specialists worldwide have benefited from the Lumalight.” Bien is also an approved continuing education provider for many healing professionals. Location: Exact Location in Northern Virginia, TBA. Contact Ruby at 703-975-0475 for course details and registration. Limited group size and advance registration only. For Lumalight information, color and light articles and to register, contact Bien at 416-340 0882 or register online at SpectraHue.com. See ad, page 29.
Depression? Anxiety? Fatigue? Moody? It’s probably not what you think it is. Functional Medicine offers Solutions for Depression & other Mood Disorders Individualized, state-of-the-art immunological, endocrine, allergic, metabolic, nutritional, functional and genetic testing to identify and correct the unique, root causes of your condition. Dr. Chas Gant, MD, PhD has practiced functional, holistic and integrative medicine and psychotherapy for over 35 years. He has helped thousands of patients of all ages with science based treatments recover from many chronic medical and psychiatric disorders.
Call Now for an Appointment - 202-237-7000 ext.104
Dr. Chas Gant, MD, PhD National Integrated Health Associates
5225 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 402 DoctorChas.com .
nihadc.com/practitioners/dr-chas-gant-md-ph-d.html
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A Healthy Clean Home?
Safer for you. Better for the Environment! Walk for an Organic Planet Begins Oct. 1
O
n October 1, Rodale Institute Executive Director “Coach” Mark Smallwood will begin walking a 162-mile journey—from the Rodale Institute in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, to Washington, D.C. to hand deliver his research on how organic farming can reverse climate change. He will deliver a white paper entitled “Regenerative Organic Agriculture and Climate Change: A Down-to-Earth Solution to Global Warming” to the Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. Local media coverage is being planned for several stops along the route, so follow the walk as it progresses from October 1 through 17 on Twitter, Facebook and RodaleInstitute. org, as well as, by tracking local stories captured by the media along his route to the nation’s capital. The Walk for an Organic Planet was created to attract widespread public attention to the benefits of regenerative, organic agriculture and to encourage Congress to create legislation that helps farmers transition to organic and supports existing organic farmers. Smallwood says,” We are now in the dire situation of needing a cure, a reversal. We know that correcting agriculture is an answer to climate chaos, and that it hinges on human behavior. The massive awakening itself is the cure. The future is underfoot. It’s all about healthy soil.” Information about this research and the white paper itself is also on the Rodale website. For more details about the Walk for an Organic Planet, contact Aaron. Kinsman@RodaleInstitute.org.
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Achieve your true purpose & path in life
Refocus Positive Behavioral Change Consultant Increase Self awareness for lasting change to heal the mind, body and soul.
John Mays, M.Ed, C.HT
Licensed Psychology Teacher Special Education Teacher Behavior Modification Specialist • Life Coach • Health/Fitness Coach • Educational Consultant • Spiritual & Self Awareness • Child/Teen Behavioral Intervention Owner of Fitness Together Chantilly, John has more than 20 years of experience in education, personal training and human service. Certified Hypnotherapist and Trainer, Post Grad Licensed Special Education Teacher, Certified Master Personal Trainer (NSCA, NCSF).
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newsbriefs Ocean Harvest Wisdom Time, A Fall Retreat
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ll are invited to experience a weekend of sharing, nurturing and bringing forth that which we appreciate about the person we are and becoming at Ocean Harvest Wisdom Time. The retreat takes place October 24 to 26 in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and is led by Milagros Phillips. This special retreat give participants a chance to play, have long conversations around the fireplace and take time to be alone when needed. There will be opportunities to walk barefoot on the sand, one last time, before the winter starts. This wonderful time of year presents each of us with the opportunity to look back and look forward, while standing in the present moment. Before holiday madness sets in and we go into hibernation, this retreat allows us to celebrate together all that this year has been. It gives space to enjoy being able to pull away from the busy world around us and retreat to the sweet roaring sound of the ocean. The vacationers have gone home and the beach becomes a private island away from schedules and must do’s. To learn more about this retreat, visit: Facebook.com/pages/Fall-Retreat-Oct24-26-Ocean-Harvest/685049538249300.
King’s Park Professional Center 8996 Burke Lake Rd, Burke, VA Gina Maybury • Miriam Hunter PJ Humphrey See our calendar at www.meetup.com/intuitive-wellness-center
Access Consciousness The Bars Access Facelift Access Conscious Processes Reiki 1 • Reiki 2 • Reiki 3 Quantum Touch Level 1 & 2 Self-Created Health AromaTouch Therapeutic Massage Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils Your first session is FREE! Gina Maybury@gmail.com 703-629-0925 MiriamHunter@verizon.net 202-361-7321 PJ@PhenomenalJoy.com 703-408-0024 We are excited to hear from you and see you soon!
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NEW CONCEPT Affordable Holistic Health Care Provided in Rockville
NEW METHOD
T
he Center for QiGong: Meditation, Healing and Beyond, a nonprofit with a goal of providing affordable holistic health care in Gaithersburg, is now offering sessions two days a week at the Chinese-M.D. Acupuncture and Wellness Center, located at 9 Adams Street in Rockville. Cofounded by Beatrice Ollier, a licensed psychotherapist and Shuren Ma, a qigong master, the Center for QiGong: Meditation, Healing and Beyond, offers meditation and qigong classes that teach how energy can quiet the mind, relax the body and re-establish the normal energy flow in the body for the purpose of restoring total health. The center also offers other forms of spiritual energy modalities, including Biogenesis, which helps to bring individuals and the environment into harmony and balance. The Center for QiGong provides holistic health modalities to individuals on fixed income and seniors who might not otherwise be able to afford alternative health care. According to Ollier, who for eight years operated a successful private practice in Rockville, “Our research has shown that there is no nonprofit center offering holistic health care in the county that focuses on mind-body well-being and spiritual expansion. We believe that our mission is helping to fill a void in this area.” The center recently also began airing a class, Relaxing and Healing with QiGong on Montgomery County cable channels 19 and 21.
Guided Meditation Sessions Daily Method of Subtraction
(301) 770 - 7778
RSVP FREE CONSULTATION
rockvillemeditation.org rockvillemeditation@gmail.com
11601 Nebel St. Rockville, MD 20852
Arlington Center
Centreville Center
Ellicott City Center
3419 14th St S, Arlington, VA 22204
5900 Fort Dr #460, Centreville, VA 20121
381 Montgomery Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21043
703.354-8071
703.657.0550
410.730.6604
Location: 422 Main Street in Kentland. For more information on the center, visit TheCenterForQiGong.org.
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October 2014
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newsbriefs A New Trend In Personal Training
C
ustomized Workouts 2 Go is a personal trainer in your pocket. More than an app, it provides access to a certified personal trainer, with whom you will have face time once a month. These workouts provide a new and affordable way to exercise with an expert, with a brand new workout every month customized to meet your individual needs and workout goals. Customized Workouts 2 Go allows you to work at your own pace and in your own time. Each customized workout comes with explanation, photos and videos of each exercise, so there is no more searching the Web for exercises. The monthly workout comes to your cellphone or iPad for ease and mobility. Every month, you will a set time to meet with your trainer but you can videotape your sessions and send them to your trainer for guidance and interactive. You will be challenged and motivated to fulfill your fitness goals and you will have an experienced, certified personal trainer to support you. Developed by one of the founders and creators of The Fitness Games App, Customized Workouts 2 Go is part of the latest trend in personal training. To learn more, visit CWO2GO.com.
Free Talk on Relieving Anxiety, Depression and PTSD
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oin Dr. Craig Sanford at Roberta’s Natural Food Market in Fairfax from 7 to 9 p.m. on October 15 for a free talk on relieving anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Sanford will be offering new information about the exciting treatment program of neurofeedback and its amazing benefits for these chronic Dr. Craig Sanford conditions. This event is hosted by Natural Awakenings and all are invited to attend. During the talk, Sanford will be discussing the inner workings of the brain and how neurofeedback has an incredible balancing effect on those that are stuck in the narrow brain frequency patterns of conditions in which a person’s brain can seem to get permanently side-tracked in an unhealthy pattern. This talk is a must-attend if you or a loved one has tried conventional methods with little or no results. The evening will start with a Kombucha Happy Hour at 7 p.m., with the talk starting at 7:30. The delicious brew will be supplied by Ralph Crafts and his MTO Kombucha. Location: Roberta’s Natural Foods, 9424 Main St., Fairfax, VA. To register, visit NeurofeedbackHelps.EventBrite. See ads, page 26 and 27.
kudos Crossings: A Center for the Healing Traditions Celebrates Milestone Anniversary
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rossings, A Center for the Healing Traditions, located in Silver Spring, celebrated 20 years of being a primary wellness center last year. Serving patients and students since 1992, they are in gratitude to all who have participated in their healing community. From clinical care in acupuncture, osteopathy, massage therapy, physical therapy and family therapy to their educational programs including mindfulness meditation, tai chi, movement improvement, qigong, professional workshops and other unique offerings, they have been a great resource to the greater Silver Spring community and beyond.
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Washington, D.C.
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A Center for the Healing Traditions
For their next 20 years (or more), they will continue with their mission of restoring the natural rhythms of body/mind/spirit and supporting a conscious embodied presence in daily living. In honor of their anniversary, they offer this blessing, “As the sun descends into the beauty of autumn, we wish each of you a remembrance of the in breath and the out breath and the virtue of acceptance.” Location: 8505 Fenton St., Ste. 202, Silver Spring. For more information visit CrossingsHealing.com. See ad, page 33.
healthbriefs
Preparing Your Immune System for a Healthy Flu Season by Dr. Isabel Sharkar iving your immune system a boost is the surest way to combat the cold and flu season. As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Don’t wait to act, start boosting your immune system today. Take non-cornbased vitamin C regularly to boost your immune system and check your vitamin D3 levels. Zinc is highly beneficial in repairing cells while probiotics strengthen your gut, which comprises 70 percent of your immune system. The homeopathic, influenzinum, is a great alternative to the flu vaccine and its preventative effect has been clinically evaluated. Also, have olive leaf extract, oscillococcinum, bioVegetarian and oregano oil on standby for the first onset of symptoms. Add immune boosting foods like garlic, onion, ginger and turmeric to your meals. To rid the body of toxins and combat getting sick, it is important to stay hydrated. If you find yourself drinking a lot of water and still feeling thirsty, chances are your body is not absorbing it. Sole water therapy is very beneficial and should be researched by all. Alcohol, processed food and refined sugar suppress the immune system and are best avoided. Did you know that 75 grams of sugar (about two cans of Coca-Cola) inhibits the ability of white blood cells to engulf bacteria for five hours? The effectiveness of toxic flu shots, some containing mercury and formaldehyde, is yet to be proven, so exploring alternative ways to boost the immune system is highly useful. If you feel a cold or flu coming on, you must act straight away. Every moment you delay boosting your immune system, you are allowing the virus to replicate and cause havoc. Natural therapies work and you must be aggressive in using them. Consult with your naturopathic doctor for the best cold and flu prevention plan.
G
Red Wine or Coffee? by Dr. Terry Victor, the DC Dentist re your favorite beverages having a positive or negative effect on your oral health? With millions of people consuming coffee and wine every year, one may ask how these drinks are affecting us on a daily or weekly basis. According to Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, coffee does not have a negative impact on periodontal health and may prevent gum disease. The study originally appeared in last month’s issue of Journal of Periodontology, and showed that there was a minimal correlation with regularly drinking coffee and teeth affected by bone loss. A group of over 1,110 adult males ages 26 to 84 were studied to look at the potential periodontal impact of drinking coffee. While coffee might not have any negative effects of your teeth, red wine may be different. Although red wine may be beneficial to one’s overall health, it may have negative effects on your oral health. Because many alcoholic beverages are filled with high levels of acidity and sugar, staining and marking teeth, studies have found that over time red wine may take a toll on your teeth. A recently released survey stated that only 16 percent of people are aware of the implications that involve one’s oral health and drinking wine. Other alcoholic beverages, such as sparkling wines and champagnes, may be even worse for your oral health as these acidic drinks attack your enamel making teeth vulnerable to bacteria. If you are finding that red wine or coffee is a major part of your daily lifestyle, there are still several things one can do to maintain those pearly whites. Drinking through a straw, rinsing your mouth with water afterward, using an electric toothbrush, and regular cleanings are a few ways to further protect your teeth. Visit your local dentist for more information about how to maintain and improve your oral and overall health.
A
Dr. Terry Victor, DDS, is a dentist in Washington D.C., providing holistic, biological and eco-friendly general restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Victor is an accredited member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and is also certified by the Eco-Dentistry Association. For more information, visit TheDCDentist.com. See ad, page 3.
Dr. Isabel Sharkar is a licensed naturopathic physician and co-owner of Indigo Integrative Health Clinic, in Georgetown. For more information, call 202-298-9131 or visit IndigoHealthClinic.com. See ad, page 5. natural awakenings
October 2014
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healthbriefs
Lower Breast Cancer Risk by Eating Colorful Veggies
Integrated branding and coaching for visionary professionals and organizations
Grace Ogden has decades of experience in Washington, DC, and a diverse international network in wellness, spirituality and social change. Her team serves leaders, nonprofits and publishers with: n
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Contact Grace to find out how she can help you grow.
FLI www.graceproductions.co grace@graceproductions.co (301) 445-6771
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esearch published in the British Journal of Nutrition discovered that the risk of breast cancer decreases with increased consumption of specific dietary carotenoids, the pigments in some vegetables and fruits. The research was based on five years of tracking 1,122 women in Guangdong, China; half of them had been diagnosed with breast cancer and the other half were healthy. Dietary intake information was collected through face-to-face interviews. The women that consumed more beta-carotene in their diet showed a 46 percent lower risk of breast cancer, while those that consumed more alpha-carotene had a 39 percent reduced incidence. The individuals that consumed more foods containing beta-cryptoxanthin had a 62 percent reduced risk; those with diets higher in luteins and zeaxanthins had a 51 percent reduction in breast cancer risk. The scientists found the protective element of increased carotenoid consumption more evident among pre-menopausal women and those exposed to secondhand smoke. Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach and dandelion greens top the list of sources rich in luteins and zeaxanthins, which also includes watercress, basil, parsley, arugula and peas. The highest levels of beta-carotene are found in sweet potatoes, grape leaves, carrots, kale, spinach, collard and other leafy greens. Carrots, red peppers, pumpkin, winter squash, green beans and leafy greens contain alpha-carotene. Red peppers, butternut squash, pumpkin persimmons and tangerines are high in beta-cryptoxanthin.
Energy Efficiency Improves Family Health
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esearch from Columbia, Maryland’s National Center for Healthy Housing suggests that adding insulation and more efficient heating systems can significantly increase the health of household residents. The researchers studied 248 households in New York City, Boston and Chicago that underwent energy conservation improvements by trained energy efficiency professionals, including installing insulation and heating equipment and improving ventilation. After the improvements, subjects reported reductions in sinusitis (5 percent), hypertension (14 percent) and obesity (11 percent). Although a 20 percent reduction in asthma medication use was reported, two measures of asthma severity worsened; the scientists called for further study of the asthma-related outcomes. A similar study from New Zealand’s University of Otago examined 409 households that installed energy-efficient heating systems. Children in these homes experienced fewer illnesses, better sleep, better allergy and wheezing symptoms and fewer overall sick days. In examining 1,350 older homes where insulation was installed, the research also found improvements in health among family residents.
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
Acupuncture Lowers Meth Withdrawal Symptoms
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esearch from China published earlier this year in the journal Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion suggests that electro-acupuncture and auricular acupuncture—also called ear acupuncture—can alleviate symptoms of withdrawal from methamphetamine addiction. For four weeks, 90 patients attempting to withdraw from methamphetamine use received either electro-acupuncture, ear acupuncture or no treatment. Compared with the no-treatment group, those given electro-acupuncture and ear acupuncture treatments showed significant reductions in anxiety, depression and withdrawal symptoms. Between the two acupuncture treatments, the electro-acupuncture group did better during withdrawals than the auricular group.
Every Month Should Be Breast Cancer Awareness Month by Sherri Hudson, CT t is possible to detect breast cancer development in the very early stages, up to five to eight years before a slow-growing palpable lump or mass will appear on a mammogram. Using digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI), physiological changes can be seen to indicate the possibility of early breast disease in both women and men. The inflammation associated with these early changes is the result of increased cellular activity which gives off heat that can be detected using Thermography. To give you an idea of how this works in the early stages, the chart shows how breast cancer grows. Early detection is very important for prevention and vascular changes over time can indicate developing disease (or if you want it simple: changes in blood flow could be the first indicators that other tests are necessary). DITI is considered to be an adjunct diagnostic tool to be used in conjunction with other tests to reach a diagnosis. So, when there is an area of interest with thermography, it is good evidence that the changes need to be watched more carefully and re-evaluated over time to catch developing disease, i.e., breast cancer, in the earliest stages possible. For many people, uncertainty about the efficacy of positive results is outweighed by the opportunity to track the changes more closely to catch disease in its earliest stages. Plus, since there is no radiation, no compression and the test is nontoxic, no risk involved. It can be used for women of any age, especially those with dense or sensitive breasts even those with implants. There is no prescription necessary. By establishing a baseline of tissue/vascular patterns, you can have an annual comparison year after year to see if there are thermographic changes. Inflammatory breast disease cannot be detected by mammography and is most commonly seen in younger women; the prognosis is almost always poor. Early detection provides the best hope of survival. The vascular changes shown on a thermogram can be significant indicators several months before clinical signs of inflammatory breast disease, such as skin discoloration, swelling and pain. Thermography is a unique tool to identify increased cellular activity, which could be the result of inflammation, physiological changes or metabolic processes that need further evaluation.
I
Sherri Hudson is a Certified Clinical Thermographer. To learn more, call 703-6356324 or visit FamilyHealthTI.com. See ad, page 24.
Reiki: What is it? How can it help? by Miriam Hunter our body has the innate ability to heal itself. However, when under stress or in poor health, your body does not have the energy needed to effectively accomplish this. Reiki is a complementary healing modality that provides tools and techniques to regain and reclaim health and wellness. Reiki balances the body to assist and accelerate healing. Reiki is effective for: reducing stress, anxiety and pain; balancing organs, glands and systems; lowering blood pressure and so much more. During a session, a certified Reiki practitioner goes through a series of hand positions held slightly above or lightly on the body, starting at the shoulders and head and then moving on to the abdomen, back, legs and feet. The person receiving a Reiki treatment always remains fully clothed and can be either seated or reclined. During and after a Reiki session you might notice warmth or coolness. You will likely feel more relaxed, less anxious, more at peace. Doctors, surgeons, nurses, chiropractors, massage therapists and sports trainers endorse and utilize Reiki in clinical settings, hospitals and operating rooms internationally. One study, done in an adult day center for individuals with dementia, found that participants who received Reiki treatments twice a week for a month were more relaxed, experienced less pain, engaged more with others and were generally happier after the trial. Reiki empowers you to easily and actively participate in your own healing. Reiki is a safe, natural way to enhance and accelerate your body’s ability to heal itself.
Y
Miriam Hunter is an energy medicine practitioner, instructor and mentor assisting individuals and groups worldwide and at the Intuitive Wellness Center in Northern Virginia. To schedule your free Reiki session, contact MiriamHunter@verizon. net, 202-361-7321 or GinaMaybury@ gmail.com, 703-629-0925. Learn about our workshops & classes at Meetup.com/ Intuitive-Wellness-Center. See ad, page 10.
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Doable Renewables
Engineers Detail a Clean Energy Future Stanford University researchers, led by civil engineer Mark Jacobson, have developed detailed plans for each U.S. state to attain 100 percent wind, water and solar power by 2050 using currently available technology. The plan, presented at the 2014 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference in Chicago, also forms the basis for the Solutions Project nonprofit. “The greatest barriers to a conversion are neither technical nor economic. They are social and political,” the AAAS paper concludes. The proposal is to eliminate dirty and inefficient fossil fuel combustion as an energy source. All vehicles would be powered by electric batteries or by hydrogen produced by electrolysis, rather than natural gas. High-temperature industrial processes would also use electricity or hydrogen combustion. Transmission lines carrying energy between states or countries will prove one of the greatest challenges. With natural energy sources, electricity needs to be more mobile, so that when there’s no sun or wind, a city or country can import the energy it needs. The biggest problem is which companies should pay to build and maintain the lines. Source: SingularityHub.com
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Renewables Gain Ground Worldwide Excess heat from London subway tunnels and an electric substation will soon be funneled into British homes, slashing energy costs and lowering pollution, according to the Islington Council. Germany’s renewable energy industry has broken a solar power record, prompting utility company RWE to close fossil fuel power plants that are no longer competitive. RWE says 3.1 gigawatts of generating capacity, or 6 percent of its total capacity, will be taken offline as it shuts down some of its gas- and coal-fired power stations. In China, wind power is leaving nuclear behind. Electricity output from China’s wind farms exceeded that from its nuclear plants for the first time in 2012 and out-produced it again last year, generating 135 terawatt-hours (1 million megawatts)—nearly enough to power New York state. While it takes about six years to build a nuclear plant, a wind farm can be completed in a matter of months. China also employs a recycling-for-payment program in Beijing subway stations that accept plastic bottles as payment. Passengers receive credit ranging from the equivalent of five to 15 cents per bottle, which is applied toward rechargeable subway cards. In the U.S., a newly installed working prototype of a pioneering Solar Road project has raised more than than double its $1 million crowd-funding goal to seed the manufacturing process (Indiegogo.com/projects/solar-roadways). Watch a video at Tinyurl.com/NewSolarRoadways. Primary Source: Earth Policy Institute
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NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
Coral Countdown
Endangered Caribbean Reef Solutions With only about one-sixth of their original coral cover remaining, most Caribbean coral reefs may disappear in the next 20 years, primarily due to the loss of two main grazers in the region, according to the latest report, Status and Trends of Caribbean Coral Reefs: 1970-2012. It’s published by the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the United Nations Environment Programme. The report—involving 90 experts and an analysis of 35,000-plus surveys at 90 locations since 1970—included studies of corals, seaweeds, grazing sea urchins and fish. Climate change has long been thought to be the main culprit by making oceans more acidic and causing coral bleaching. Now, the loss of parrotfish and sea urchins is seen as the main factor; their demise has broken the delicate balance of coral ecosystems, allowing the algae upon which they feed to smother the reefs. Restoring positive populations, plus protection from overfishing and excessive coastal pollution, could help the reefs recover and make them more resilient to future climate change impacts. Download the report at Tinyurl.com/CoralReefReport
Coastal Caretaking
Zoning Tropical Waters Like Land Resources In the journal Marine Pollution Bulletin, 24 scientists from Canada, the U.S., the UK, China, Australia, New Caledonia, Sweden and Kenya affirm that one-fifth of humanity lives within 60 miles of a tropical coastline, primarily in developing countries. They warn that growing populations and the increasing impact of climate change ensure that pressures on these coastal waters will only grow. Most locations are lacking in holistic, regional management approaches to balance the growing demands from fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, oil, gas and mineral extraction, energy production, residential development, tourism and conservation. Lead author Peter Sale, of the United Nations University’s Canadian-based Institute for Water, Environment and Health, states, “We zone land for development, farms, parks, industry and other human needs. We need a comparable degree of care and planning for coastal ocean waters. We subject [the sea], particularly along tropical shores, to levels of human activity as intense as those on land. The result is widespread overfishing, pollution and habitat degradation.” According to the paper, solutions must address a larger geographic scale over a longer period of time; focus on multiple issues (conservation, fisheries enhancement and land-based pollution); and originate from a local jurisdiction to gain traction with each community.
Fracking Flub
Methane Dangers May Be Three Times the Estimate Results of a meta-analysis of 20 years worth of scientific studies published in Science magazine conclude that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has underestimated the natural gas industry’s climate impact by 25 to 75 percent by not including methane leakage from fracking, gas drilling operations and pipelines. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is a potent greenhouse gas. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration researcher Gabrielle Petron voices concern with the discrepancies because, “Emission estimates, or ‘inventories’, are the primary tool that policy makers and regulators use to evaluate air quality and climate impacts.” For a paper published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres, researchers flew aircraft over a heavily fracked region in northeastern Colorado and concluded that emissions from drilling operations were nearly three times higher than an hourly emission estimate published by the EPA.
The World Health Organization has recognized acupuncture as effective in treating mild to moderate depression. ~Andrew Weil
View the paper at Tinyurl.com/OceanZoning. natural awakenings
October 2014
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globalbriefs Household Hazards
States Move Against Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Products This year, at least 33 states are taking steps to address the untested and toxic chemicals in everyday products. Many toys, clothes, bedding items and baby shampoos contain chemicals toxic to the brain and body. The federal 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act has become outdated, allowing untested chemicals and known carcinogens, hormone disruptors, heavy metals and other toxins to be ingredients in commonly used products. Wise new policies would change labeling and disclosure rules for manufacturers so that concerned consumers know what chemicals products contain and/or completely phase out the use of chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) in infant formula cans, food packaging and receipt paper; formaldehyde in children’s personal care products; chlorinated tris (hydroxymethylaminomethane) in toxic flame retardants and other consumer products; phthalates, lead and/or cadmium in children’s products; and mercury. View the entire report at Tinyurl.com/State-By-State-Action-List.
False Alarm
Expiration Labels Lead People to Toss Good Food
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Several countries are asking the European Commission to exempt some products like long-life produce from the mandatory “best before” date labels because they lead to food waste. According to a discussion paper issued by the Netherlands and Sweden and backed by Austria, Denmark, Germany and Luxembourg, many food products are still edible after the labeled date, but consumers throw them away because of safety concerns. The European Union annually discards about 89 million metric tons of edible food. In the U.S., food waste comprises the greatest volume of discards going into landfills after paper, reports the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In 2012, this country generated 36 million tons of food waste, but only 3 percent of this waste stream was diverted from landfills. A 2013 report co-authored by the Natural Resources Defense Council and Harvard Law School’s Food Law and Policy Clinic proposes that producers and retailers take other steps to prevent the discarding of good food. Source: EnvironmentalLeader.com.
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Conservation Covenant
A Greener Future for National Parks National parks have an undeniable environmental impact on the very lands they seek to preserve. Yellowstone’s managers have been working on ambitious management goals to elevate it to be a world leader in environmental stewardship and become one of the greenest parks in the world by 2016. The Yellowstone Environmental Stewardship Initiative goals (against a 2003 baseline) are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent (50 percent by 2025); reduce both electricity and water consumption by 15 percent; reduce fossil fuel consumption by 18 percent; and divert all municipal solid waste from landfills. Source: Environmental News Network
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
eventspotlight
ecotip
Free Health Fair To Be Held in Rockville
Make Mulch
Enrich Garden Soil Naturally
by Robin Fillmore
N
atural Awakenings and Dawson’s Market have teamed up to bring an exciting new event to the greater D.C. healthy living scene. On Sunday, October 12 from noon to 4 p.m., some of the area’s finest natural, holistic, green and organic practitioners, businesses and experts will be available to meet, talk, listen and share. The event takes place at Dawson’s Market, both inside and out on Rockville Town Square, with the talks, demos and workshops taking place at VisArts, just adjacent to Dawson’s. The best part is— it is all free. During the expo, attendees will have the opportunity to chat and learn more about naturopathic, alternative and complementary healing methods, with experts and practitioners so it is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and find answers to your health questions. Have you ever wondered what acupuncture was like? Is there a way to train your brain to be “unstuck” in unproductive thought patterns? The expo will provide opportunities to learn and explore. The always-fun group, WithLove DC, known for bringing meditation and yoga flash mobs to unlikely parts of the city, will be on hand to lead everyone (who wants to participate) in a bit of unstressing, so keep your yoga mat at hand. There will also be a variety of products—to consume, to clean, to wear and to make your life a bit easier. Dawson’s will also be providing tastings from some of their regular chefs and
bakers. Organic skin care items will also be available to try and purchase. A series of talks will be offered at VisArts on a wide range of topics, including meditation and detoxifying your life. VisArts is a nonprofit arts center that engages and encourages the community to make the world a bit more beautiful, with extensive programming for children, teens and adults as well as a gallery exhibition. Dawson’s Market, approaching their second anniversary, is becoming well-known for bringing highly innovative food-and drink-related events to the area in addition to its high quality local and regional products, and stands by its tagline, “To be the heart and soul of our community through a strong commitment to local and organic foods.” As such, Dawson’s is the perfect partner to work alongside Natural Awakenings, whose team is committed to forging a strong community of health seekers in the greater D.C. area. The event is open to one and all. Invite your friends or plan to make a new one at the first (of many to come) Healthy Living Expo on October 12. Location: Dawson’s Market is located at 225 N. Washington St., in the Rockville Town Square. VisArts is located at 155 Gibbs St., Rockville. Free parking is available and metro accessible via the Rockville station. For more information and a schedule of events, visit: HealthyLivingExpoDC.com.
Homeowners with gardens have many natural, organic and sustainable options for mulching, which enriches soils with nutrients, helps retain moisture and controls weeds. In most regions, many types of trees can provide ingredients. In northern areas, ridding the yard of fall leaves yields a natural mulch. Apply ground-up leaves, especially from mineral-rich oak and hickory trees, so they biodegrade by growing season. OrganicLandCare.net suggests choosing from double-ground and composted brush and yard trimmings; hemlock, pine, fir and Canadian cedar; and ground recycled wood. Using a lawnmower with a high blade height or switching to a serrated-edged mulching blade can chop leaves into tiny fragments caught in an attached bag. The National Turfgrass Federation notes, “A regular mower may not shred and recirculate leaves as well as a mulching blade.” Shredded leaves also can filter through grass and stifle springtime dandelions and crabgrass, according to Michigan State University research studies. Ground-up parts of many other plants can also provide natural mulch in their native regions. AudubonMagazine.org cites cottonseed hulls and peanut shells in the Deep South, cranberry vines on Cape Cod and in Wisconsin bogs, Midwest corncobs, and pecan shells in South Carolina.
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Healthy Housing
SUSTAINABLE
CITYSCAPES Urban America is Going Green in a Big Way by Christine MacDonald
T
oday, buzzwords like “sustainability” and “green building” dominate discussions on how to overcome the unhealthful effects of climate change, extreme local weather events and pervasive pollution. Now, a growing body of research indicates an unexpected upside of living greener; it not only makes us healthier, but happier, too. It’s all helping to spread the “green neighborhood” idea across the U.S., from pioneering metropolises like New York, San Francisco and Portland, Oregon, to urban centers like Cincinnati, Detroit and Oakland, California.
Rethinking Redevelopment
A sustainable, or “eco”-city, generally runs on clean and renewable energy, reducing pollution and other ecological footprints, rather than on fossil fuels. Along with building entire eco20
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cities, developers also are striving to replace hard-luck industrial pasts and turn problems such as depopulated urban cores into opportunities for fresh approaches. “We are having a major rethink about urban development,” says Rob Bennett, founding CEO of EcoDistricts (EcoDistricts.org), a Portland-based nonprofit skilled in developing protocols for establishing modern and sustainable city neighborhoods. The group has recently extended help to seven other cities, including Boston, Denver and Los Angeles, applying innovations to everything from streetscapes to stormwater infrastructure. “The failures of the old, decaying urban and suburban models are evident,” says Bennett. “We’re now learning how to do it well and create environmentally sustainable, peoplecentered districts.”
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
The concept of home is undergoing a radical makeover. From villages of “smallest houses” (usually no bigger than 350 square feet), to low-income urban housing complexes, people interested in smaller, more self-sufficient homes represent a fast-growing, increasingly influential segment of today’s housing market, according to experts such as Sarah Susanka, author of The Not So Big House. Google reports that Internet searches for information on “tiny houses” has spiked recently. Economic freedom is one factor motivating many to radically downsize, according to Bloomberg News (Tinyurl. com/TinyHouseDemand). Cities nationwide have overhauled their building codes. Cincinnati, for example, has moved to the forefront of the eco-redevelopment trend with its emphasis on revamping instead of demolishing existing buildings. Private sector leaders are on board as well; a transition to buildings as sustainable ecosystems keeps gaining ground through certification programs such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and the “living building” movement begun by Seattle’s Cascadia Green Building Council has gone international.
Friendly Neighborhoods
Walkability is “in” these days, along with bike paths, locavore shopping and dining and expansion of public destinations, all of which draw residents out to meet their neighbors. This “new urbanism” is evident in places like Albuquerque’s emerging Mesa del Sol community and Florida’s proposed Babcock Ranch solar-powered city. While public and private sectors are involved, residents are the catalysts for much of the current metamorphoses. Whether it’s a guerrilla gardener movement—volunteers turning vacant lots and other eyesores into flowering oases—creative bartering services or nanny shares, people-helping-people approaches are gaining momentum. The Public School, an adult education exchange that began in Los Angeles in 2007 and has since spread to a dozen cities worldwide, the Seattle Free School, the Free University of New
York City, and Washington, D.C.’s Knowledge Commons all have taken the do-it-yourself movement into the realm of adult education. The latter offers more than 180 courses a year, most as free classes offered by and for local residents encompassing all neighborhoods, with topics ranging from urban foraging and vegan cooking to the workings of the criminal justice system.
New York City residents taking an urban walking tour rated the experience better and more exciting when it included an urban garden.
Designing for better public health is a central tenet of sustainability, as well. Active Design Guidelines for promoting physical activity, which first gained traction in New York City before becoming a national trend, intend to get us moving. Banishing the core bank of elevators from central loca~ Charles Montgomery, tions, architects substiHappy City tute invitingly light and airy stairwells. Evolving cityscapes make it easier for commuters to walk and bike. Upgraded Transportation Tyson’s Corner, outside of WashWith America’s roads increasingly ington, D.C., has made sidewalk clogged with pollution-spewing veconstruction integral to the overhaul of hicles, urban planners in most larger its automobile-centric downtown area. U.S. cities are overseeing the expanMemphis recently added two lanes for sion of subway and light rail systems, bikes and pedestrians along Riverside revamped street car systems and even Drive overlooking the Mississippi River, ferry and water taxi services in some while Detroit’s HealthPark initiative has places. Meanwhile, electric vehicles many of the city’s public parks serving (EV) got a boost from four New England as sites for farm stands, mobile health states, plus Maryland, New York, Texas clinics and free exercise classes. and Oregon, which have joined California in building networks of EV charging Clean Energy stations, funding fleets of no- or lowemission government cars and making The ways we make and use energy are green options clearer for consumers. If currently being re-envisioned on both all goes as planned, the nine states eslarge and small scales. Solar cooperatimate that 3.3 million plug-in automotives have neighbors banding together biles could hit the streets by 2025. to purchase solar panels at wholesale Mass transit, biking and walking prices. Startup companies using comare often quicker and cheaper ways to puter algorithms map the solar producget around in densely populated urban tion potential of virtually every rooftop centers. Car sharing, bike taxis and onin the country. However, while solar line app-centric taxi services are popular panels and wind turbines are rapidly with increasingly car-free urban youth. becoming part of the new normal, they Boston’s Hubway bike-sharing program are only part of the energy revolution addresses affordability with a $5 annual just getting started. membership for low-income residents. In the past several years, microgrids One common denominator of the have proliferated at hospitals, military new urbanism is an amplification of bases and universities from Fort Bragg, what’s considered to be in the public in North Carolina, to the University of welfare. Through partnerships among California at San Diego. These electripublic and private sectors and comcal systems can operate in tandem with munity groups, organizations like utility companies or as self-sufficient EcoDistricts are developing ways to help electrical islands that protect against communities in the aftermath of natural power outages and increase energy effidisasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, ciency, sometimes even generating revseasonal flooding and water shortages. enue by selling unused electricity to the Coastal cities, for example, are grappling grid. While still costly and complicated with ways to safeguard public transit and to install, “Those barriers are likely to other vulnerable infrastructure. fall as more companies, communities
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The benefits of urban agriculture are not limited to the provision of food, with many advocates citing community empowerment, environmental justice, public health, and education and training as primary goals. ~ Columbia University and institutions adopt microgrids,” says Ryan Franks, technical program manager with the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
Local Food
What started with a few farmers’ markets feeding urban foodies has given way to a growing local food movement that’s beginning to also reach into lowincome neighborhoods through mobile markets, a kind of farmers’ market on wheels, and an explosion of urban gardens and city farms. Ohio City Farm (OhioCity.org) grows food for in-need residents on six acres overlooking the Cleveland skyline. In Greenville, South Carolina, the Judson Community Garden is one of more than 100 gardens in the downtown area, notes Andrew Ratchford, who helped establish it in a neighborhood four miles from the nearest supermarket. Giving residents an alternative to unhealthy convenience store fare is just one of the garden’s benefits, Ratchford says. “We’re seeing neighbors reestablish that relationship just by gardening together.”
Waste Reduction
While cities nationwide have long been working to augment their recycling and find more markets for residents’ castoffs, many are becoming more sophisticated in repurposing what was formerly considered trash. Reclaimed wood flooring in new homes and urban compost-sharing services are just two examples characterizing the evolution in how we dispose of and even think about waste. We may still be far from a world in which waste equals food, as described by environmental innovators William McDonough and Michael Braungart in their groundbreaking book, Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things. Nevertheless, 22
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projects certified as cradle-to-cradle are cutting manufacturing costs and reducing pollution. For example, carpet maker Shaw Industries Group, in Dalton, Georgia, reports savings of $2.5 million in water and energy costs since 2012, when it improved energy efficiency and began using more renewable material in its carpet tiles. Shaw is spending $17 million this year to expand its recycling program. Stormwater runoff is a pervasive issue facing older cities. Many are now taking a green approach to supplementing—if not totally supplanting —oldfashioned underground sewage systems. Along with creating new parks and public spaces, current public spaces are often reconfigured and required to do more. Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Portland, among others, are instituting carefully planned and built green spaces to soak up rainwater and cut down on runoff into sewer drains—taking motor oil and other pollutants with it. Using revamped sidewalk, parking lot and roof designs, plus rain gardens designed to filter rainwater back into the ground, municipalities are even successfully reducing the need for costly underground sewer system overhauls. The proliferation of rooftop gardens in places including Chicago, Brooklyn and Washington, D.C., and new green roof incentives in many cities nationwide further exemplify how what’s considered livable space is expanding. Altogether, eco-cities’ new green infrastructure is saving cities billions of dollars and improving the quality of life for residents by adding and enhancing public parklands and open spaces, a happy benefit for everyone. Christine MacDonald is a freelance journalist in Washington, D.C., whose specialties include health and science. Visit ChristineMacDonald.info.
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
HAPPINESS GOES VIRAL by Christine MacDonald Since the tiny Himalayan country of Bhutan first came up with the idea of ditching standard measures of prosperity for a more inclusive Gross National Happiness (GNH) about a decade ago (GrossNationalHappiness.com), it has spread around the world. After gaining a U.S. foothold in Seattle, dozens of American cities and institutions have adopted the central tenets—the idea that the time has come to rethink our concept of well-being. Today, the nonprofit Happiness Alliance (HappyCounts.org) supports grassroots activists that are challenging the idea that economic activity always leads to happiness and is pioneering new ways to think about and measure life satisfaction, resilience and sustainability. GNH proponents from around the country came together in Vermont last May for their fifth North American conference. Alliance Executive Director Laura Musikanski says that more than 50,000 people and 100 municipalities, college campuses and businesses have been using the GNH Index, developed to more accurately gauge a community’s happiness, and the group expects to see even more growth as its expanding website tools allow more people to connect online. “Economic success in terms of money only correlates with happiness up to a certain point,” she remarks. “After you meet your basic needs, the biggest things determining your happiness are community and feeling that you can trust the people around you and the democratic process.” While faith may be in short supply when it comes to community and politics today, Musikanski thinks there’s cause for optimism, because happiness is a core value in this country. “We believe in the Declaration of Independence and ‘life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’ These are truly American values.”
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Sustainability in Our
Local Cities
The D.C. Area is Known Nationally For Innovative Sustainability Efforts by Robin Fillmore
T
he greater Washington, D.C. area is known nationally for innovative sustainability efforts in these cities throughout the region.
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NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
Since the summer of 2011, Washington, D.C. has been on a drive to become “the healthiest, greenest, most livable city in the nation over the next 20 years” according to The Sustainable DC Plan. This plan is a centerpiece of Mayor Gray’s administration and is built on a model of engaging and collaborating with residents, workers, business leaders and professional experts. Seven working groups met in the summer of 2012 to provide recommendations to move this plan forward in specific issue areas of climate, built environment, energy, food, green economy, nature, transportation, waste and water. The goals for the plan include an increase transit, biking, walking to 75 percent of all commuter trips, cut citywide unemployment by 50 percent and increase five times the number of green jobs and services, reduce both citywide greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption by 50 percent, increase the use of renewable energy by 50 percent and to insure that at least 75 percent of residents have access to nutritious foods. For more information about Sustainable DC, sign up for regular updates through its website at Sustainable.DC.gov.
Alexandria
In the nationwide list of mid-sized cities, Alexandria ranked as one of the nation’s 10 greenest cities, based on the social aggregation site, MyLife.com. This honor comes in recognition of its number of public parks, number of recycling centers, its environmentally conscious commuters and its walk score. This high rating is bolstered by services such as the free hybrid King Street Trolley, which enables residents and visitors to move about the
city. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has likewise recognized Alexandria, naming it as one of the “Ten Most Walkable Cities” in the country. The move to create a more sustainable city began in 2007, when the city partnered with Virginia Tech’s Department of Urban Affairs and Planning. Eco-City Alexandria was launched with the goal to create a charter and plan move the city toward environmental sustainability. The following year, an Eco-Summit was held to enable the public to engage with the plans and soon the charter and plan were launched in June 2009. Today, the Environmental Action Plan 2030 (EAP 2030) provides guiding principles and serves as a road map for city leaders to meet 48 goals, 50 targets and 353 actions to lead the City toward environmental sustainability by the year 2030. For more information about Eco-City Alexandra, visit AlexandriaVA.gov/Eco-City.
Bethesda
In Bethesda, much of the impetus for sustainability comes from citizen groups, such as Bethesda Green. The organization brings together individuals, businesses and leaders to work collectively on innovative solutions for sustainability. The organization was started in 2008 with Dave Feldman serving as its first executive director. Just recently, Feldman stepped aside to grow the Bethesda Green model in other communities and Véronique Marier was named as the new executive director. Throughout downtown Bethesda, Bethesda Green’s recycling bins are strategically placed in highly-trafficked areas but much of their work is done by engaging the business community. They are known for providing space and support for some of the region’s most promising green businesses through their “green business incubator.” For established businesses, such as restaurants, they provide information and support on how to become a green restaurant, focusing on issues such as waste oil, composting and green construction. For the community, they offer talks and events, including their big gala and awards celebration on October 9. For more information about Bethesda Green, visit BethesdaGreen.org.
Featuring All Natural Carpet Cleaning Call Michele: 301-337-0988 michele.muise@gmail.com For a listing of all services please visit muse-concierge.com
natural awakenings
October 2014
25
natural awakenings invites you. . .
leadingedge
RELIEVING ANXIETY, DEPRESSION & PTSD A free seminar on Neurofeedback
OCTOBER 15 • 7:30 to 8:30 pm Roberta’s Natural Food Market 9424 Main St., Fairfax Dr. Craig Sanford of the NOVA Center for Alternative Medicine will offer a talk and demonstration of this highly successful new treatment for these chronic conditions. REGISTER: NeurofeedbackHelps.eventbrite.com
AcupunctureFor Pain, Depression and Anxiety Can Acupuncture Replace Medication? by Dr. Craig D. Sanford
The future will either be green or not at all. ~Bob Brown
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oday approximately one in five Americans take at least one psychiatric medication. Many clinical trials have shown little difference between placeboes and anti-depression medications. Individuals with anxiety have been no more than sedated rather then helped by medications, while the rampant use of medications for chronic pain has resulted in a mass wave of addiction. In fact, in Europe the first choice of many physicians is a more natural route with acupuncture playing a major role. So why would acupuncture be of a benefit and what is the physiological mechanism that can give one relief from the symptoms of pain, anxiety and depression? Just as a side note, acupuncture was discovered and has been in use for 4,000 to 5,000 years. That’s quite a track record of longevity in itself. To better understand how acupuncture works, one needs to have to understand the two greatest balancing systems of the body, the parasympathetic and the sympathetic systems. This could also be compared to the yin and the yang of Oriental medicine. Your sympathetics are when you are active and moving about, like exercising. If you were to drink too
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much caffeine, you could over stimulate your sympathetic system and become anxious and have heart palpitations. Your parasympathetic system works just the opposite. With the parasympathetics in overdrive, you may become too relaxed and possibly have loss of motivation— even depression. Acupuncture has the unique ability to bring the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems into balance, which has a positive effect on pain, anxiety and depression. There is also the release of endorphins leaving some patients in a near-euphoric state. Treatment is further enhanced by stimulating a specific acupuncture point related to the individual patient’s complaints and symptomatology. If you or a loved one is suffering from any of the above symptoms, acupuncture can provide time-tested relief without the negative side effects of medications. Many patients have been pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of this treat. Dr. Craig Sanford has been practicing for 26 years and has practices in McLean and Woodbridge, VA. To learn more about him, NOVAaltMed.com. See ad, page 27.
researchspotlight
Don’t just cover up the symptoms! Take a holistic approach in caring for yourself and your loved ones
BioGeoGenetics Restoring the Salt of the Earth by Robin Fillmore
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hen Doc Cornelius Warren was a young child, his grandmother often used the familiar phrase, “you are the salt of the earth.” Little did he know at the time that as an adult, he would devote his life to finding the ways that this salt, cell salts particularly, can bring better health to so many. Warren is the driving force behind the Institute of Cellular Wellness, a company that has grown and consolidated the work of other research endeavors. He is trained as a master herbalist but has always had a penchant for research and unlocking the mysteries of human cell development. Warren’s career in medicine began in the U.S. Army as a medic but he was quickly invited to participate in cellular engineering research while stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. After his time in the army, Warren founded his first companies, Through the Ages Herbs and Holistic Works in 2000 and the Phinix Institute of Herbal Research in 2004. Diving deeper into this area of research, Warren set up a laboratory by which he could extract the cell salts from specific herbs, condense them and ultimately formulate them into products that can be processed into the body through the mucous membrane. The result, in 2006, was a range of products now known as BioGeoGenetics. Through the use of his product, his wife’s vision was restored and the progression of the disease was halted. Warren also alleviated symptoms of his wife’s asthma and eczema with other formulations that he has derived. Currently, BioGeoGenetics offers a variety of supplements that supply vital minerals to the human body in a rich, bio-active
form, providing the user with countless health benefits in a single supplement. The foundation for Warren’s work is trace mineral and cell salt deficiency. For generations, herbs have been used to cure disease and prolong life, but the mystery of how that process works has only recently been uncovered. According to Warren, “Herbs are heavily saturated in minerals, which are the most important nutrient to provide a strong foundation for a healthy body. Even though herbs have a higher amount of minerals than standard fruits and vegetables, to truly receive the amount of mineralization the body requires for longevity, you’d have to consume a vast amount on a daily basis and that’s if they are freshly picked (the fresher the herb, fruit, or vegetable the more bioactive the minerals contained therein). Luckily these days, along with new data and information, there are also new options to receive rich amounts of quality supplementation.” His research and products have also caught the attention of other prominent researchers and physicians, including the personal physician of the late, great Frank Sinatra. While Warren notes that he is changing lives by going through the “back door” of medicine, researchers from Johns Hopkins have taken note of his work and are supporting his ongoing research. Even the investors of the popular TV show, Shark Tank are interested, although Warren is keeping his options open to expand the reach of his products. While they are still available from the Institute of Cellular Wellness, the supplements can be purchased online at WhatIsBio GeoGenetics.com. See ad, page 25.
NOVA Center for Alternative Medicine We utilize passive neurofeedback which has shown significant clinical results with: • ADD/ADHD • PTSD • Stress • Anxiety/Depression • Post-concussion syndrome Functional medicine, nutrition and lab testing: • Type II Diabetes • Thyroid Conditions • Fibromyalgia • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Sleep Disorders • Peripheral Neuropathy • Chronic pain/Pain management We also provide acupuncture, cold laser and chiropractic for complete holistic care in a one-stop natural health facility.
CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION 703-821-1013
NOVA Center for Alternative Medicine 1485 Chain Bridge Rd., Ste.100 McLean, VA 22101 NOVAAlternativeMed.com Craig D. Sanford, DC, FIAMA, FMCP American Association of Integrative Medicine.
natural awakenings
October 2014
27
The Human Spirit is Inherently Unlimited
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Washington, D.C.
DYNAMIC DUO
Combining Chiropractic and Acupuncture Energizes Health by Kathleen Barnes
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hiropractic manipulation of the spine has long been a remedy for structural malfunctions such as aching backs and recurring headaches. Today, chiropractors are also treating neck pain from stress, plus tight shoulders and numb fingers from long hours of computer use. An increasing number of them are now incorporating acupuncture into their arsenal against disorders once treated by chiropractic alone, with great success. “What if you had a nail in your foot? You can do anything to try to heal it, but until you pull the nail out of your foot, you’ll still have a recurring problem,” explains Dr. James Campbell, owner of Campbell Chiropractic Center, in East Brunswick, New Jersey, a certified diplomate and incoming president of the American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture (ABCA). “Like removing the nail, chiropractic removes the mechanical problem and opens the way for acupuncture to stimulate healing,” Similarly, a chiropractic adjustment removes obstructions and opens acupuncture meridians to facilitate quick healing, “sometimes even immediately,” says Campbell. “Instead of having the needles in for 20 to 30 minutes, I can actually use a microcurrent device to access the meridians in the ears or on the hands and get the same results in
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five to 10 seconds.” He notes that relief can be both fast and permanent because the healing energy currents are able to circulate freely throughout the body.
Growing Movement
Combining the two modalities has been practiced for more than 40 years, although awareness of the enhanced effectiveness of doing so has been primarily realized in the eastern half of the U.S. The dual therapy is the brainchild of the late Dr. Richard Yennie, who initially became a Kansas City chiropractor after acupuncture healed a back injury shortly after World War II. An acupuncturist smuggled prohibited needles into Yennie’s Japanese hospital room in the sleeve of his kimono for treatments that ended with Yennie’s hospital discharge marked, “GOK,” meaning in the doctor’s opinion, “God only knows” how the intense back pain was healed. While Yennie went on to teach judo and establish five judo-karate schools, his greatest achievement was bringing the two sciences together in the U.S. He founded both the Acupuncture Society of America and the ABCA, affiliated with the American Chiropractic Association. Certification as a diplomate requires 2,300 hours of training in the combined modalities.
Proven Practice
Doctor of Chiropractic Michael Kleker, of Aspen Wellness Center, in Fort Collins, Colorado, is also a state-licensed acupuncturist. “I can tailor treatments to whatever the individual needs,” he says. For patients experiencing pain after spinal fusion surgery, with no possibility of any movement in their spine, Kleker finds that acupuncture helps manage the pain. “We can commonly get the person out of the chronic pain loop,” he says. He also finds the combination helpful in treating chronic migraines, tennis elbow and other chronic pain conditions. “When I started my practice in 1981, few chiropractors knew anything about acupuncture, let alone used it. Now there are more and more of us,” observes Kleker. Both Kleker and Campbell are seeing increasing numbers of patients with problems related to high use of technology, facilitating greater challenges for chiropractors and new ways that adding acupuncture can be valuable. Notebook computers and iPads have both upsides and downsides, Campbell remarks. Users can find relief
from repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome by utilizing portable devices. However, he is treating more patients for vertigo due to looking down at screens or neck pain from lying in bed looking up while using the devices. “Blackberry thumb”, which refers to pain caused by texting, responds especially well to a combination of chiropractic manipulation of the thumb to free up the joint and microcurrent or acupuncture needles to enhance energy flow in the area,” advises Campbell. Prevention is the best cure for these problems, says Kleker. He routinely informs patients about proper ergonomic positions for using traditional computers and mobile devices. He also suggests exercises to minimize or eliminate the structural challenges that accompany actively leveraging today’s technological world. In addition to chiropractors that are increasingly adding acupuncture to their own credentials, an increasing number of chiropractors have added acupuncturists to their practices. Therapy combining chiropractic
LumalighT
and acupuncture has yet to be widely researched, but one study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2012 reports the results of two acupuncture treatments followed by three chiropractic/acupuncture treatments for a women suffering from long-term migraine headaches. The migraines disappeared and had not returned a year later. Other studies show the combination therapy offers significant improvements in neck pain and tennis elbow. Campbell relates a story of the power of chiropractic combined with acupuncture, when his young son that was able to walk only with great difficulty received a two-minute treatment from Yennie. Afterward, “My son got up and ran down the hall,” he recalls. Locate a certified practitioner at American BoardOfChiropracticAcupuncture.org/ about-us/find-a-diplomate. Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
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natural awakenings
October 2014
29
Detox for Life Getting and Staying Healthy in a Toxic World by Dr. Chas Gant, M.D., Ph.D.
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eing healthy in a toxic world requires taking on a new understanding of what is involved in both staying and getting healthy. Living on the edge of a 200-year-long industrial revolution, which has brought us astonishing benefits, has also caused unintended problems like chemical and energetic pollution and malnutrition from eating processed food, all of which are driving toxicity-related health problems. We are discovering that many medical and psychiatric problems are caused by toxicities, so preventing or resolving them requires a straightforward process. Step one: avoid or minimize exposure to toxins. Step two: enhance the detoxification of toxins already stored in the body. We are now learning the importance of step three: make detoxing a way of life. Limiting exposure to toxins can be relatively simple. For example, adopt a routine lifestyle habit that includes consumption of organic food and filtered clean water, and avoidance of air pollution wherever possible. Minimize contact with Wi-Fi, microwaves and high power lines, and wear devices which decrease their biological harm to offer some protection. If you are a health care provider or healer, since toxicity is the cause of so much disability, make it a routine activity in the care you provide to design a program to mitigate this exposure side of the equation. A far more challenging problem is what to do about toxins which are already stored in the body, especially if they are causing psychiatric and medical problems. First, this entails some understand-
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ing of what our body does to rid itself of toxins, and then we can make some intelligent choices about helping it out. Detoxification is a two-step process of oxidation and conjugation. This is analogous to a two-step process that many people use to get rid of trash in their backyards, by first burning it (oxidation) and then carting it away (conjugation). In the body, toxins are first oxidized to make them reactive, and then conjugated to (connected to) certain molecules, which generally make the toxins more soluble in water and easier to excrete. What researchers are also now learning is that each individual body is different in its ability to perform these functions. Genetic factors which accelerate or inhibit oxidation rates as well as conjugation capacities often dictate a person’s vulnerabilities to accelerated aging and medical and psychiatric symptoms. Now that testing of detoxification genetic quirks (called SNPs or single nucleotide polymorphisms) is widely and inexpensively available to consumers, those who are most vulnerable to toxicities and require focused detoxification programs, can be identified. Toxins that get lodged in the body are not only those taken in through the food, air and water. They can also be toxins from germs like candida (mycotoxins) and Lyme disease. The health of the gastrointestinal tract, where over 60 percent of the body’s immune system resides, can be a very important factor in both generating toxins and clearing them from the body. Toxins also interfere with brain function and cause
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depression and other psychiatric disorders. When toxicity-related psychiatric symptoms prevail, especially in those most genetically vulnerable, many resort to psychotropic medication, alcohol, tobacco and illicit substances to “take the edge off”, which of course makes toxicities worse and ultimately, psychiatric symptoms are magnified. Many chronic psychiatric and medical problems are thus often caused by toxins derived from chronic infections, environmental exposures from the air, food and water, psychotropic drugs, medications, genetic vulnerabilities and gastrointestinal imbalances. Efforts to help patients detoxify can take up the lion’s share of the clinical time in an integrative medical practice. Here are a few simple things you can do to help your body’s attempts to rid itself of toxins. n Sweat more—while exercising, in saunas or in the bathtub. Many toxins are removed through sweat. For baths, add a few cups of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate, which assists in the conjugation process) to hot bathwater and soak 30 minutes daily. n Eat more detoxifying foods, such as garlic, onions, broccoli and parsley, which are high in sulfur, a toxin conjugator and take probiotics. n Drink lots of purified water—three to four quarts a day. n Eat plenty of fiber. n Get genetically tested to determine if you are especially vulnerable to living in the modern age. n See a biological or holistic dentist to get your mouth cleared up from toxic metals & infections. Adding years to our lives and life to our years can be related to how successful we are at detoxifying for life. Dr. Chas Gant, M.D., Ph.D., is an author, physician and practitioner, specializing in molecular health and healing. For more information, call 202-237-7000, ext. 104 or visit DoctorChas.com. See ad, page 8. To learn more about “Detoxifying for Life” from Dr. Chas, attend the free seminar at the Healthy Living Expo on Sunday, October 12 at 12:15 p.m. Visit HealthyLivingExpoDC.com for details. See ad, page 4.
healthspotlight
Thermography Screening For Breast Health by Donna Marie Scippa
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hermography or Medical Infrared Imaging, is a painless, noninvasive, and inexpensive breast scan approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for women of any age. Research suggests that breast cancer survival rests upon the earliest possible detection. When discovered early, 95 percent cure rates are possible, making breast thermography an essential part of risk assessment and early detection. Thermography involves fascinating technology. It is a physiologic test measuring heat levels in the tissue. Interpreting a thermogram requires a complex computerized system, which measures heat in the breast by analyzing images taken by a state-of-the-art medical infrared camera. Humans are heat generators and most of the heat produced is normal. A thermogram detects abnormal heat in the breast tissue, (angiogenesis, or new blood vessel formation, necessary to sustain the growth of a tumor), which is one of the earliest signs that a breast cancer may be forming. Thermography is an imaging
procedure that uses no radiation, injections, extreme pressure or other invasive methods. Infrared markers of early stage cancers missed by other methods may be discovered using thermography. This is the beautiful thing about thermography; it is capable of picking up these early signs while giving us 90 percent sensitivity and specificity. Mammogram is an X-ray (radiation) and a structural test. It detects micro-calcifications and masses in breast tissue, which may or may not be benign. Unfortunately, cancer has already formed and been present in the breast for some time before detection by mammogram is possible. Christiane Northrup, M.D., boardcertified OB/GYN and author, a strong advocate of thermography, states: “I understand that mammography has been the gold standard for years. Doctors are the most familiar with this test and many believe that a mammogram is the best test for detecting breast cancer early. But it’s not. Studies show that a thermogram identifies precancerous or cancerous cells earlier.”
The inclusion of thermography in breast cancer awareness and prevention plans is essential. It helps differentiate high-risk women, detect changes in breast tissue early and may give women a significant chance of beating an aggressive and widespread disease. It has been determined that no one method of examination alone can serve all the needs of breast cancer detection. Thermography can help in this arena, especially given how many women have dense breast tissue, which lowers the sensitivity of mammography. It is also important to note that if a women began receiving thermographic scans in her 20s, she would be given a significant opportunity to change the course of her life. Breast cancers in younger women are generally more aggressive and have poorer survival rates. Breast thermography offers younger women a valuable imaging tool that they can add to their regular breast health check-ups. The importance of including thermography cannot be overemphasized. In this day and age we need to be as proactive as possible in order to finally stop breast cancer from being so prevalent and the cancer women fear the most. Breast thermography has developed into an important tool in the fight against breast cancer and is important to include in any breast health program. Source: Huffington Post (2010). Location: Neck, Back and Beyond is located in the Mosby Building, 10560 Main St., PH1 in Fairfax. To contact, call 703-865-5690 or email NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com. For more information or to make an appointment during their special screening week, October 10 to 14, visit NeckBackAndBeyond.com Donna Marie Scippa has been a nurse practitioner in Women’s Health for more than 20 years based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is passionate about integrative therapies for women’s health and the value of thermography as a breast health screening tool. For more information visit BreastThermo graphy.com. See ad, page 16.
natural awakenings
October 2014
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healthykids
Age-Perfect Parties
TRICK & TREAT Host a Halloween that’s Natural, Healthy and Cost-Conscious by Avery Mack
Slipping masks, sagging costumes and sugar hits can all contribute to cranky kids at Halloween. Healthier, greener and safer options will up the ongoing fun factor.
Neat Costumes
Hooray! Princesses and superheroes are more popular than witches and devils these days. With encouragement from parents, kids can enjoy a greener Halloween with tiaras, wands and capes made from recycled cardboard and hobby shop items. Thrift stores offer up hats and jewelry for added bling. The Internet overflows with inspiration. Also, many public libraries host costume swaps this month; find other swap locations at Tinyurl.com/CostumeSwaps.
Colorful Disguises
Consider inexpensive temporary hair coloring instead of wigs. Mix three packets of sugar-free drink mix or one box of sugar-free gelatin dessert mix (because sugar makes hair sticky), a few drops of both water and a conditioner into a paste. Apply cocoa butter at the hairline to prevent color from running down the face. Use a paintbrush to apply it to the hair, topped 32
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by a shower cap for a steeping period of as long as youthful patience allows before shampooing. Homemade face paint is a fun and healthy alternative to sweaty masks. (Commercial face paint can contain lead and other undesirables.) A moisturizer with sunscreen, unscented lotion or cocoa butter acts as the base. “UVA/ UVB rays are present year-round,” says Dermatologist Michael Taylor, in Portland, Maine. “Use zinc- or titaniumbased products, free from fragrance, para-aminobenzoic acid, parabens, bisphenol A, phthalates and other harmful ingredients.” Natural food coloring, spices or other pantry items provide colorants. Turmeric makes a bright yellow; raspberry, blackberry or beet juice yields pink or red; mashed avocado and spirulina show up green; blueberry juice is naturally purple; and cocoa powder makes a great brown, according to Greenne.com.
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For the youngest treaters, hold an afternoon party with games and an outdoor wildlife/leaf hunt. “Plan a scavenger hunt or arrange stuffed toys to be knocked over with balls,” suggests Pamela Layton McMurtry, author of A Harvest and Halloween Handbook, and mother of seven in Kaysville, Utah. “Older kids will love a block party. Solar twinkle lights can mark the perimeters. Plan for a potluck and emphasize healthy choices. Games with prizes like wooden toys, juices, raisins or glutenfree crispy rice cakes take the focus off of candy. Tweens like progressive parties: appetizers at one house, dessert at another and music or scary movies at a third.” “Disguise healthy snacks as scary, gross foods,” suggests Rosie Pope, a parenting style leader and former reality TV personality in Ridgewood, New Jersey. “Homemade grape or orange juice popsicles with a small gummy worm inside are popular.” Pope likes to decorate cucumber and apple slices with raisins, dried cranberries, blueberries and pretzels adhered with organic peanut butter to mimic crawly creatures. Black spaghetti colored with squid ink can simulate boiled witch’s hair. Spinach linguini masquerades as swamp grass. Look for gluten-free varieties. Prepare peeled grapes for green eyeballs. “Cover party tables with a patchwork of fabric remnants,” advises McMurtry. She also suggests a DIY taco area or cat-and-scarecrow-shaped pizzas. Use sliced olive or cherry tomato eyes, shredded cheese hair and a red pepper smile. Prepare a cheesy fondue with whole-grain bread. Individually wrapped popcorn balls studded with bits of fruit can be great take-home desserts for guests.
Harvest Décor In addition to the usual farmers’ market gourds, Indian corn and pumpkins, “Oranges, tangerines and apples covered with cloth and tied with orange or black yarn or ribbon hung as miniature ghosts in the kitchen and doorways add a spooky touch,” adds Pope. “After the holiday, the fruit returns to the table as a snack.” Pope’s children also like to
draw Halloween murals on windows using water-based markers. Traditional tricks and treats are easily improved upon with mindful shopping and imagination. The calorie counts are lower, environmental impacts are lighter and the feel-good fun factor soars. Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via AveryMack@ mindspring.com.
Special Movie Screening!
More EcoTreat Tips 4 Keep kids’ hair dry after applying temporary coloring to keep ingredients from running. 4 Mix cornstarch and beet juice to make “blood”. 4 Post a door notice that this family is giving out healthy snacks. Search out organic, fair trade, GMO-, gluten-, nut- and sugar-free treats in recyclable packaging (or no packaging at all). Avoid artificial preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup.
This heartfelt and compassionate documentary from Swiss filmmaker, Marcus Imhoof, showcases the fascinating world of bees and highlights the delicate relationship beween nature and the future of mankind.
Join us for this special event featuring: Meet & Greet with Naturopathic Physicians! Raffle Giveaways! Free Samples!
October 9th at 7pm
West End Cinema 2301 M St. NW Washington, DC 20037 Purchase Tickets Online: http://gathr.us/screening/8634
4 After gutting the pumpkin, roast the seeds for a snack and purée the pumpkin to add fiber and flavor to recipes.
or call 202-966-2563
4 Post-Halloween, compost the jack-o’-lanterns and gourds and add any corn stalks to foliage recycling. Find more tips at Tinyurl.com/ Eco-Halloween. Contributing sources: Green Halloween.org, SafeCosmetics.org
Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~Albert Camus natural awakenings
October 2014
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wisewords
Airwaves Activist
Public Radio’s Steve Curwood Empowers Listeners to Aid Planet Earth
How much does listener feedback and interaction influence your selection of topics?
by Randy Kambic
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s creator, executive producer and host of Living on Earth, the weekly environmental news program broadcast since 1990, first distributed by National Public Radio and more recently by Public Radio International, Steve Curwood keeps millions of people informed on leading environmental topics. Broadcast on more than 250 public radio stations nationwide, the program has garnered a host of accolades, including three from the Society of Environmental Journalists and two Radio and Television News Directors Association Edward R. Murrow awards. In-depth interviews and onsite tapings bring subjects to life for listeners. Movers and shakers, innovators and grassroots organizers explain complex issues in understandable terms. Updates of previously aired segments sometime point to what has changed since a piece first aired. Here, Curwood reflects on his own key learnings.
What do you believe is the most important environmental challenge we currently face? Hands down, global warming and the associated disruption of Earth’s operating systems is the biggest risk that we run right now. If we continue to get this wrong—and right now we’re not getting it right—it’s going to destroy the ability of our civilization to proceed as it has been. Everything else operates within the envelope of the 34
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environment. There’s no food, economy, family or anything else good if we don’t have a habitable planet.
As Living on Earth approaches its silver anniversary, what stands out to you as having changed the most over the years? One thing that is new and important is an understanding of the power of coal to disrupt the climate. Massachusetts Institute of Technology research shows that using natural gas energy has about three-quarters of the impact of coal over its lifetime, and work at other universities and government agencies supports that finding. Another way to put this is that coal shoots at the environment with four bullets while natural gas does it with three. It also raises serious questions about whether we should be making massive infrastructure changes to use natural gas when we already have that infrastructure for coal, and why we shouldn’t instead be moving to clean and renewable energy sources that don’t destroy the climate system.
Can you cite the single highest-impact segment enabling NPR to tangibly help forward changes benefiting the environment? I believe that in 1992 we were the first national news organization to do environmental profiles of presidential
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candidates, prompting follow-up by ABC News, The Wall Street Journal and others. That signaled the greatest impact—that other news organizations felt it was important. A number of media picked up on the idea and started doing those kinds of profiles... not always, not everywhere, but frequently. Presidential candidates can now expect to be asked questions about their positions on the environment.
When we launched the program, surveys showed that only 14 percent of the public cared about the question of global warming, which means 86 percent didn’t care, but we thought the story was important and stuck with it. People do care about their health, so we pay a lot of attention to environmental health stories, particularly eco-systems that support healthy living, from clean water to the vital roles of forests to the toxic risks we run from certain manmade chemicals. That’s really important to people, and listeners are quite vocal on such subjects. There’s a phrase, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” If we just relied on listeners to tell us what we should tell them, we wouldn’t be educating them. On the other hand, it’s equally important to cover what listeners are curious about, because they can also educate us. It’s a two-way street. Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a freelance writer, editor and contributor to Natural Awakenings.
To win without risk is to triumph without glory. ~Pierre Corneille
oneonone
Meditation and Prayer as One
An Interview with Cynthia Bourgeault by Grace Ogden
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o you ever wonder how prayer fits with meditation, or wish that it would? Modern-day mystic Cynthia Bourgeault teaches the ancient spiritual path of Christian contemplation where the two practices are profoundly joined. An Episcopal priest and author of The Wisdom Jesus, The Meaning of Mary Magdalene (a Gwyneth Paltrow favorite), and Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, Bourgeault is spreading the recovery of the Christian contemplative and wisdom path, alongside Fr. Richard Rohr, Fr. Thomas Keating and others. She will speak in Washington, D.C., on November 16, upon receiving the Contemplative Voices Award from the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation. Bourgeault responded to these questions in a recent interview.
What is the difference between contemplation and meditation?
What do you say to someone who meditates but wonders about God and whether there is a way to have both? Functionally there is about an 85 percent overlap between them. The state of contemplation known in the classic Christian tradition is accessed through what most of the world today knows as meditation—i.e., a stilling of the faculties of intellect, emotion, memory and will. Meditation gets that noisier stuff to pipe down until you become open to a state of contemplation, beyond the dualistic stuck points that keep you in one box and God in another. Traditional Christian contemplative practices include the Jesus Prayer and Lectio Divina, and contemporary practices include Christian meditation, centering prayer and Christian Zen. They help the mind become quiet and hold attention in a different kind of way, a non-dualistic way.
It is uncommon to find this in churches, correct? What bridges do people cross to enter into contemplative practices? It is a great sorrow of the Christian path over the past 1,500 years that these core practices, well-known and used by the Desert Monastics of the 3rd to 5th centuries (and living on as unbroken lineage within contemplative monastic orders), dropped out of sight and became largely inaccessible to members of the non-monastic Christian church. When they were brought back front and center in the 20th century, many people thought they were foreign practices borrowed from the East or the New Age. That being said, however, I am very grateful to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the whole mindfulness path that has sprung up in recent decades for making available in a secular context what many Christian lay people have been resistant to picking up in an intentionally spiritual or religious way. Taking on a meditation practice is in my opinion absolutely nonnegotiable for beginning the process which so restructures the brain and the brain-heart that the teachings of Christ become accessible from the Christic point within. This is what Saint Paul meant when he said, “Put on the mind of Christ.”
Some people think meditation is not “personal” and are reluctant to leave behind (so it seems to them) an “I-Thou” relationship with God. But the personal doesn’t go away in meditation: it changes form. It is not personal like you thought when you were still in dualistic consciousness and you worshipped God “out there.” But you understand that the whole nature of the universe and consciousness is the dwelling place of God, is permeated with the personal and the intimate
Can a person see their work or career through this lens? Highly committed, empowered people, across a whole slew of walks of life— from science to politics, writers, singers, corporate executives, some clergy—have connected the dots that a spiritual formation based in contemplative practice quickens and empowers you to actually do your stuff in the world.
How do you see the Shalem Institute’s work in this light? Shalem works toward creating people who are deeply empowered and grounded in their own contemplative practice, who are familiar with the mystical lineage of Christianity that they dwell in and come from in an inclusive way, and who are not afraid to be change agents in the world. I feel the whole contemplative enterprise is thoroughly prophetic and significantly political. I am deeply touched and honored to receive the Shalem Institute’s Contemplative Voices Award.
Where is love on the contemplative path? There is nothing that is not love. The structure of the universe is love. What is revealed as the heart of God in contemplative prayer is love. What dissolves the person is love. What creates the person is love. You know you cannot escape love For tickets and information about the Shalem Institute’s Contemplative Voices event with Cynthia Bourgeault on Nov. 16, go to Shalem.org. Grace Ogden is the founder of Grace Productions, which offers transformational consulting and Living Sacred events, GraceProductions.co. See ad, page 14.
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October 2014
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consciouseating
Alkalinity Matters
by Elaine Gibson
F
Fight the Aging Process and Supercharge Your Immunity
or many people facing a diagnosis of cancer, learning how to fight back with changes to lifestyle is a key component to success. This includes a renewed focus on what food and drinks consumed, including water. Dr. Otto Heinrich Warburg, a biochemist and 1931 Nobel Prize winner for his work with cancer cells and oxygenation, was one of the first researchers to explain the connection between alkalinity and disease long ago. Doctors practicing integrative and alternative medicine will tell patients that the body is alkaline by design and acidic by function. We are meant to be 80 percent
alkaline and 20 percent acidic. But what is alkalinity and what does it mean to be alkaline? Alkalinity is the one and only thing that can create homeostasis or total balance in our body. Below are some quick facts on alkalinity. Having an alkaline environment means having optimum levels of oxygen in the blood, cells and tissues. It’s the sufficient amounts of oxygen that create an alkaline environment. The more oxygen in your blood, the more alkaline you are. The more hydrogen you have in your blood, the more acidic you become. Acid is only good inside your
stomach but not outside it. Acid dissolves and destroys. Imagine what happens when your cells and organs are bathing in it. It is well understood by many practitioners that alkalinity is the best short-cut to vibrant health. It’s the very foundation of superior health. Being alkaline means that the body’s cells and organs are functioning optimally that they’re able to detoxify, heal and regenerate efficiently. When you are alkaline, you reverse your body’s biological age. You look and feel younger than your chronological age. If you find yourself zooming along the lanes of old age then it’s time for you to alkalize your body. But it doesn’t only fight the aging process, it also supercharges your immunity. When your immune cells are well-nourished, they can defend your body against diseases and pathogens more easily. Alkalinity is important because it puts the individual in control. It enables you to decide how long you want to live, what kind of body you will have, what kind of life to create. It does not just improve your health, it improves the quality of your life and alkalinity gives diseases and depression nothing to latch on to. Euphoria is something that alkaline folks experience, not just optimal health because alkalinity gives you greater mental and emotional stability. It can help center and ground you, in spite of what is happening in your life. Acidosis on the other hand magnifies negative emotions, which in effect compounds the problem by raising your acid levels further. For more information about alkalinity and tops on how to be alkaline, visit RenewedLivingInc.com.
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Elaine Gibson is a health advocate. She has been prominently featured during International Raw Food Day 2013, 12 Days of Raw Christmas, GO RAW! and Integrated Health magazines. She is also cited as one of the 10 Most Inspirational Natural Cancer Survivors by Extreme Health Radio and part of the important Quest for the Cures documentary series. For more information, visit RenewedLivingInc.com.
womenshealth
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy A Tool in Anti-Aging Medicine by Rosina Cabo, PA-C
M
any people hear anti-aging medicine and think it is a specialty of medicine that encompasses esthetic changes and gray hair reversals. While the name may connote such images, the role of antiaging medicine extends beyond physical appearances. This medicine aims to maintain healthy bodies and minds during the natural aging process. Anti-aging medicine focuses on prevention; it tackles the mechanism of aging and age-related diseases in individual patients, to create vigor, vitality and quality of life. Among one of the most effective modalities in rejuvenating an aging body is through the use of bioidentical hormones. According to Harvard Medical School, hormone therapy is still the most effective treatment for postmenopausal symptoms. The goal of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is to optimize essential hormone levels in those who are deficient or symptomatic in order to improve function, prevent morbidity with age and enrich quality of life. After establishing baseline levels, the therapy utilizes substances that are the same chemical structure as what the body naturally produces. Technically, the body cannot distinguish bioidentical hormones from the ones the body makes, and consequently the hormones are allowed to form essential active metabolites which are then excreted in the same manner as endogenous hormones. Natural hormones are more bioavailable in the body and therefore easier to use making
them more effective. In contrast, synthetic hormones are structurally dissimilar from endogenous hormones. In effect, these substitutes waste energy by giving incomplete messages to cells which then fail to produce a balanced hormonal response. Non-bioidentical hormones fail to produce the desirable metabolites in the body, and thus can be confused with benefits of maintaining balanced levels. These synthetic hormones are metabolized into various forms of estrogen not detectable by laboratory tests. An example of this phenomenon may be observed from the study that looked at women taking estrogenonly therapy with conjugated equine estrogens, known as Premarin; these women had a 78 percent increased risk for blood clots. Other women took progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate, also known as Provera, which showed interference with estrogen’s good effects on cholesterol as opposed to the effect being maintained by micronized, bioidentical progesterone. Aside from the chemical composition, method of delivery is also important. Estrogen in pill form has to pass through the liver. First pass liver metabolism activates C-reactive protein and clotting factors. These stimulated factors are associated with heart disease and stroke. However, when estrogen is formulated as a transdermal patch or topically applied, the same blood levels are achieved without the liver effects. In a clinical setting, bioidentical hormones are used to replenish levels
to a physiologic state that decline as a result of disease and age. Estrogen is most commonly associated with being female, and three main forms are produced in the body: estrone, estradiol and estriol. Estrone predominates in postmenopausal women and is believed to increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer; estradiol provides benefits for cholesterol, bone structure, serotonin, energy, memory and nutrient absorption. Estriol is the weakest estrogen, known to significantly increase during pregnancy. It does provide protection against breast cancer. Additional potential benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy for women include reduced osteoporosis and restoration of bone strength, facilitate growth and repair, reduced hot flashes and vaginal dryness, better maintenance of muscle mass and strength, reduced risk of endometrial and breast cancer, reduced risk of depression, improved sleep, better mood, concentration and memory, improved libido, and fewer side effects than with synthetic hormones. The best way to know if you have a hormone imbalance is to schedule an appointment with a trained antiaging practitioner. They will measure your hormone levels, interpret the results and determine an individualized program to optimize your hormonal symphony. Throughout treatment, our levels will continue to be monitored to determine if any adjustments are necessary. A good rule of thumb for aging well is to maintain your health; which can be done effectively with bioidentical hormone therapy. Sources: International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding (2000, 2001), Menopause, 2004. Rosina Cabo, PA-C, ABAAHP, FAARFM, MNM, CHHC is a board-certified physician assistant with additional board certification and fellowship training in anti-aging, regenerative and functional medicine from the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, as well as a Master of Science in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine from the University of South Florida Medical School. She practices at GW Center for Integrative Medicine. See ad, page 2.
natural awakenings
October 2014
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advertorial
BRINGING MORE THAN HOMEWORK HOME By Ryan Hogan It’s that time of year when we’re sending our kids back to school. Unfortunately, while schools are good places to learn they are great places to catch a disease. In fact, children’s Upper respiratory illnesses (URI’s) cause more doctor visits and missed school days than any other illness in the US. Luckily, there are a few things you can do at home to help reduce the chances of your child getting sick at school this year.
sanitizer before eating snacks, lunch and after using a shared computer mouse, pencil sharpener, water fountain or other community objects. Now, most people know we need to wash our hands, but one thing most people don’t really relate their health to is nasal hygiene. Using a saline spray with xylitol, such as Xlear Nasal Spray, is safe for all ages. Research has shown this natural sweetener is useful in preventing bacterial otitis media (ear infections), among other upper respiratory problems that are most likely to occur in fall and winter months. Additional xylitol studies have also shown a significant reduction in asthma attacks when a xylitol nasal spray is used on a daily basis. Xylitol affects nose and throat bacteria in two ways:
HOW? Before we talk prevention, we need to know how infection spreads. Many childhood illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria that are transferred from person to person. URI’s increase in fall and winter as we spend more time crowded indoors. All it takes is one sick child, going to school for the spread to begin. Small droplets from a child’s cough or sneeze travel through the air and land on surfaces like desks, doorknobs and people. These germs are easily spread when someone touches the contaminated object and then proceeds to touch their eyes, nose or mouth. Children’s immune systems are less mature than those of adults, so they’re more vulnerable to these germs. Washing your hands and your nasal passages and also keeping their hands away from their nose, eyes and mouth are the most preventative habits to form at a young age.
•
Decreases the adherence of harmful bacteria on their surface cells.
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Stimulates the body’s own natural defense system
Since the average American child has six to ten colds a year, using a xylitol nasal spray is a safe and effective way to promote better upper respiratory health, year round. FINAL HEALTHY TIPS In addition to frequent hand-washing, teach your child some other school health basics: •
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
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Give your child a package of tissues to keep in his or her desk.
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Encourage your child not to share water bottles, food or other personal items.
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Ask your child’s teacher to include hand-washing time before lunch or snacks.
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Have your whole family practice nasal hygiene and the use of xylitol saline spray like Xlear.
WHAT CAN YOU DO? Our best defense is to stop cold germs where they breed. Good hand-washing is the most effective way to prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, handling trash and prior to touching food to help eliminate germs. Soap and water should be used for 20 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice). Using alcohol-based hand cleaners is also effective. Remind your child to use the
Even with all of these tips, your kids are bound to come down with something over the course of the school year. We all get sick at some point or another, forming healthier habits and maintaining a positive attitude is all we can do as parents. For more information, please visit www.xlear.com. natural awakenings
October 2014
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ancientwisdom
Why Get Acupuncture?
Understanding How It Works by Dr. Deborah Norris and Jessie Norris
N
ow that scientific evidence has shown many health benefits of acupuncture, the question for consumers remains, “Should I use acupuncture to treat my health condition?” Acupuncture was one of the first complementary medical practices to be approved by most health insurance companies for coverage, with studies finding that acupuncture and acupressure help significantly in the treatment of many conditions. As evidence mounted that acupuncture could be used to treat symptoms of pain, anxiety, mood disorders, to balance hormones and to improve sleep, researchers began to wonder about the mechanisms of action by which acupuncture worked. The National Institutes of Health states on their website, “Nobody knows how acupuncture works.” Interestingly, there were many acupuncturists at that time in the U.S., who knew quite well how acupuncture works. They simply spoke a different language from medical researchers. Acupuncturists understand the mechanisms of their treatment as working with energy fields that flow through the body, referred to as meridians. Medical
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researchers explored the biochemical changes in endorphins (the body’s own painkillers), and serotonin (the body’s own mood regulator and a key player in our immune system), and used CAT scans and MRI’s, mammograms, electrocardiogram’s and EEG’s to measure the flow of electro-magnetic fields. Interestingly, current studies of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are finding that mind-body practices are capable of changing the very structure of our brains. The fact that acupuncture increases serotonin levels by enhancing the body’s own serotonin production and the discovery of the role of serotonin in the immune system may explain why acupuncture is useful in treating numerous conditions. A study by the University College of London Medical School found that serotonin significantly inhibited bladder cancer cell growth. Eager to find ways to increase serotonin levels for the treatment of cancer, researchers quickly explored the effects of antidepressant medications such as SSRI’s on serotonin’s anti-cancer effects. The results unexpectedly showed the reverse. SSRI’s actually blocked the beneficial effects of
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serotonin in killing cancer cells. The question remained, how do we increase serotonin without drugs? One answer is acupuncture. (Meditation, tai chi and yoga have all also been shown to naturally increase serotonin levels.) This may explain how acupuncture may increase rates of survival in patients being treated for cancer. A recent revolution in genetics research has opened up a whole new field of epigenetics—exploring the potential for our genes to change in our own lifetime and for these traits to be passed on to future generations. Exploring the genetics of cancer, researchers have searched for a way to improve the life span of the DNA in our healthy cells, while decreasing the life span of cancer cells. Many mind-body practices have been shown to increase the longevity of our chromosomes, by increasing levels of an enzyme called telomerase—an enzyme responsible for putting telomeres back on the ends of our chromosomes, thus, effectively, reversing what we have previously thought of as the aging process. But researchers have been concerned that if we increase telomerase levels in cancer cells, these unwanted cells may also persist. An important study by Dr. Omura from the Heart Disease Research Foundation found that acupuncture differentially effects telomerase levels in healthy cells versus cancer cells, causing cancer cells to decline and literally self-destruct, while our healthy cells thrive. Further research should continue to explore the clinical benefits of acupuncture, not just as a palliative option in cancer care, but as part of the protocol for treatment. The summation of current research on acupuncture shows it is helpful for treating any number of conditions and may in fact be beneficial for treating any and all conditions, based on its beneficial impact on the fundamental structures of our brain, genes, cells, endocrine, nervous and immune systems. Deborah Norris, Ph.D., ERYT-200, Is a neuroscientist and director of The Mindfulness Center in Bethesda. Jessie Norris, ERYT-200, is Faculty Director of The Mindfulness Center. To contact her, email Jessie@TheMindfulnessCenter.org. See ad, page 45.
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October 2014
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practitionerspotlight
Intuitive Wellness Center Equipping Clients for Self-Transformation by Robin Fillmore
“Everything has a vibration but areas of disease or pain usually have a lower vibrating energy. With the Quantum Touch technique, when you bring the vibration up, you create ‘a sandwich’ around the lower vibrational energy with higher resonating energy and the lower vibrational energy entrains up.”
T
he path to healing isn’t always the most direct route but, sometimes navigating the turns and the forks in the road are just as important as the journey itself. It could be said that Miriam Hunter and Gina Maybury, who run the Intuitive Wellness Center in Burke, Virginia, have both been on such a journey and have come to this place with great joy. Both practitioners are well-versed in a range of energy healing modalities, including Quantum Touch, Access Consciousness and Reiki. Each additional modality represents a new tool they might use when a new client walks through the door. And they do walk through the door—for sessions, workshops and talks. In fact, Intuitive Wellness Center is now looking 42
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at nearby space to accommodate the growing crowds for their classes. Miriam Hunter, a practitioner for many years, uncovered her passion for healing through her art. After her daughter had started school, she was looking to add a new dimension to her life and began to paint. Her artwork became healing paintings for those seeking an inspiration for meditation or to use as a focus for those suffering from a chronic condition. Hunter’s life changed when a client commissioned a painting to assist the client’s sister who had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Hunter did a bit of research to include high energy images in the painting and was drawn to include a Lauriana rose. When the recipient came to pick up the painting,
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she asked the name of the flower and was shocked to learn that it was a Lauriana rose. Lauriana had been the name of the clients’ other sister who had died just one year before. Through the tears, healing came for both the sister suffering from bipolar disorder and her sister who had placed the order for the painting in the first place. For Hunter, the incident became a launching pad for her healing work, as she knew that there was something deep within her that could bring light and joy to others. Hunter refers to a “Mary Poppins’ bag of tools and techniques” that she pulls out with any client but it is Quantum Touch that serves as a foundation for most of her work. In this modality, the client is guided to use breathing and visualization techniques to raise the vibration of life force energy. According to Hunter, “Everything has a vibration but areas of disease or pain usually have a lower vibrating energy. With the Quantum Touch technique, when you bring the vibration up, you create ‘a sandwich’ around the lower vibrational energy with higher resonating energy and the lower vibrational energy entrains up.” Gina Maybury, once an attorney, had been a student of Hunter’s. After the Virginia-centered earthquake that shook Washington, D.C., in 2011, Maybury went looking for a healing modality to help co-workers who were suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She discovered Quantum Touch as an internationally known energy medicine modality on the Web and was shocked to learn that a class (taught by Hunter) was being offered the next week, just down the street. Though the class was full, she knew she needed to be a part of it and talked Hunter into offering one more space. Within the first hour of that class, Maybury’s old knee injury was helped and she was hooked. It is from that former classroom that Maybury now sees her own clients. In addition to Quantum Touch, Maybury is a Usui Reiki Master and is a Certified Facilitator in Access Consciousness, another healing modality. She describes running Access Bars as a simple, hands-on body process,
which entails touching 32 points on the head. This enables the client to release the electromagnetic component of their “stuff” such as judgments and conclusions, or otherwise, stepping out of judgment. “It is like defragging the hard drive on your computer—to get rid of the files that are no longer needed and those that remain are reorganized in that space. The result is that there are possibilities for new thoughts and ideas to show up.” Workshops and classes are offered on Quantum Touch, Access Consciousness, Reiki and a host of other topics on nights and weekends at the Intuitive Wellness Center, with guest speakers occasionally joining Hunter and Maybury They also offer a quarterly Open House, where all are invited to learn more about the different healing techniques by trying them out in free mini-sessions.
Scientific and Spiritual Knowledge for a New Era • Gain insights about new views of reality coming from the frontiers of scientific research • Personally experience your subtle spiritual nature through my experiential and knowledge workshops • Explore your life purpose in spiritual counseling Douglas Kinney, M.S, RScP, CHt Member: IONS, ARE, Society for Scientific Exploration, International New Thought Alliance Author: Frontiers of Knowledge, Framework of Reality (see website for excerpts from books) Visit: www.douglaskinney.com for events, updates Contact: dougkinney@msn.com, 301-236-9040
Location: 8996 Burke Lake Rd., Ste. L101, Burke, VA. Individual sessions by appointment. To see a full list of classes and workshops, visit Meetup.com/Intuitive-Wellness-Center/. See ad, page 10.
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communityspotlight
Growing through Transitions Women’s Wellness at GWCIM by Kami Nicole Veltri
Be the fearless rose: embrace transition with grace and continue to grow. Your positivity may pervade your experience. ~Rumi
T
he Persian poet and Sufi mystic Rumi wrote, “The flowers flee from autumn, but not you; you are the fearless rose that grows amid the freezing wind.” Like the fleeing flowers, we frequently fear change; as Western women, we often dread our own autumn, a time marked by the progressive cessation of our menstruation—that is, our menopausal transition. Menopause, while often causing dis-ease, is not a disease; it is a natural part of aging, characterized by hormonal changes spanning many years. Though it is considered complete when a woman does not menstruate for 12 consecutive months, perimenopausal hormonal changes precede this cessation and continue beyond this milestone. The experience of the menopausal transition for each woman, like the woman herself, is unique and, like health, is affected by an array of biological, cultural, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors. Research shows that attitudes toward menopause have a significant role in the experience, largely serving as self-fulfilling prophecies. Women who have negative attitudes toward menopause and aging are more likely to report both a greater number and a greater frequency of menopausal symptoms. This autumn, the GW Center for Integrative Medicine is embracing its own transformation and growth. Dr. Susan Hurson and Rosina Cabo have joined Dr. Deirdre Orceyre and Mary Kendell to expand their Women’s Health Initiative to serve women through all transitions of life. Hurson is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, and a 44
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Rosina Cabo Cabo’s areas of interest include: addressing hormonal imbalances for men and women, infertility, irregular menstrual bleeding, menopausal problems, osteopenia, osteoporosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, premenstrual syndrome and thyroid disorders.
Dr. Susan Hurson member of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and the Institute for Functional Medicine. Aside from general gynecology, her areas of interest include: abnormal Pap smears; hormonal problems including premenstrual symptoms, irregular cycles, menopausal changes, mood disorders and hormonal interactions; vulvar skin problems; vulvar pain, i.e., vulvodynia and pain with sex, bladder pain and interstitial cystitis. One of the joys of her specialty, Hurson enjoys seeing women of any age who need gynecologic care. Cabo is a board-certified physician assistant with additional board certification in anti-aging, regenerative, and functional medicine from the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, as well as a Master of Science in metabolic and nutritional medicine. Her treatment plans incorporate bioidentical hormone replacement, nutrition, herbals, lifestyle adjustments, and complimentary therapies to help the body heal and regain balance.
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Dr. Deirdre Orceyre Orceyre has specialty training in naturopathic women’s health and has studied with naturopathic gynecology leaders, Drs. Tori Hudson and Kimberly Windstar. She works to identify unique functional imbalances that may be leading to conditions such as: premenstrual syndrome; irregular menses; menstrual cramps; polycystic ovarian syndrome; endometriosis; uterine fibroids; ovarian cysts; hormonally related symptoms, such as acne and migraines and perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, fatigue and irritability. Dr. Orceyre uses specialty
testing along with treatments such as diet, lifestyle, herbal medicine, vitamins and minerals, homeopathy, flower essences and acupuncture to optimize health.
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Mary Kendell Kendell is a women’s health care nurse practitioner with a Master of Science degree and postgraduate certifications in sexual counseling and education. In addition to general gynecology, Kendell’s current areas of interest include: evaluation and treatment of chronic and recurrent vaginal infections and sexual pain; as well as sexuality counseling for men and women on a variety of issues, such as problems with orgasm, low libido, sexual pain, sexually transmitted diseases, relationship issues, and sexuality problems related to medical issues, including intimacy after cancer. She also enjoys collaborating with this team of amazing professionals that put their passion and knowledge together to create an integrated and comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
TWO Metro Locations! 258 Maple Ave E Vienna, VA 22180 (703) 255-7040
12242 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 (301)770-7040
Kami Nicole Veltri is a medical student working at the GW Center for Integrative Medicine in Washington, D.C. during time off from her conventional medical education. For more information about women’s wellness and services, visit GW Center for Integrative Medicine at GWCIM. com or call 202-833-5055. See ad, page 2.
Meditation Teacher Training (160 Hours) • Yoga Teaching Training (200 Hours) The Mindfulness Center • 4963 Elm St., Ste. 100 • Bethesda, MD 301-986-1090 • TheMindfulnessCenter.org The Mindfulness Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. natural awakenings
October 2014
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firstperson
Being One With the Universe by Rosa Lidia Tapia Moreno
I
used to live in total darkness. Both my past and future distressed me. Unnecessary and negative thoughts filled my mind and led me to a life filled with stress, fear, insecurity and a lack of confidence in myself and in my surroundings. I lost all enthusiasm for life and was trapped in a deep depression. My physical health also continued to deteriorate. I found Maum Meditation at the end of 2010. It has taught me a simple, easy, accessible and understandable method to completely remove, from my mind, all these absurd thoughts and beliefs that prevented me from seeing and knowing the Truth. It was because I had
been trapped in an illusory, unreal and untrue world. My health has greatly improved. The changes in my habits have improved the standard of my life. My family and personal relationships became more fulfilling and positive without criticism. When others ask me my favor, I can support them in a selfless and altruistic way. Now, I know how to appreciate and really understand them. I carry out my work more accurately and I have more focus and energy, which brings me better results. This method of emptying out the mind has taught me how to clean my mind and offered me a reason and
motive for life. I am certain that I live happily with fullness by becoming one with the Universe. I am optimistic and free from any conflict. I have conviction that the Universe is the greatest being. I have learned to appreciate and live the life every day with enthusiasm and confidence. I hope everyone knows Maum Meditation and understands the true meaning and purpose of their life—why we come to this earth and where we go when we die. This will make them able to live happily and fully, without pressure of any kind. This must be the aim and purpose of our Creator. I’m currently practicing level five. I am longing to get to the completion so that I reach the goal. I express my total and profound thanks to Maum Meditation for giving me the peace, tranquility and freedom, and for leading my life up to here. To learn more about Maum Meditation, visit RockvilleMeditation.com. Rockville Meditation is located in the Flint Hill Plaza on Nebel St., just one block away from the White Flint Metro Station on Rockville Pike. The Rockville Meditation Center facilitates unlimited guided meditation with six meditation sessions daily. See ad, page 11. Rosa Lidia Tapia Moreno is an industrial pharmaceutical chemist and entrepreneur from Mexico City, Mexico.
Prepare to be inspired and energized by our world-class speakers, including Congressman Tim Ryan, A.J. Jacobs, Brian Wansink, Rebecca Katz, Dr. Philippa Darbe and many The conversation is changing... Are you listening? more… Learn about the simple changes that will help you take charge October 25th, 2014 ���� �� ������ of your physical and mental health. 9:30 �� - 4:00 �� Develop ways to handle stress, eat foods to help fight chronic diseases and live a Georgetown University Campus healthier, happier life. Throughout the Edward B. Bunn Auditorium day you will get to try new foods, learn about new products and enjoy a healthy The conference lasts a day, the benefits a lifetime lunch on us. Discover your personal roadmap to Register at www.achievingoptimalhealthconference.com or call 202-549-0040 the healthiest, happiest you. 46
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supplies. He calls his service “a great opportunity to experience satisfaction and purpose in my life. “When you go out and see the opportunities that you have been given compared to those who have so little, you come back feeling very humble and grateful. Additionally, when one serves without any financial expectation or return, one feels a great sense of joy and happiness.” Sreeni says the team will be working under conditions that are challenging, and he will be seeing children and adults who are in dire need of dental/ oral care.
Rockville Oral Surgeon Finds Joy in Service To Those in Need
For more information on Dr. Sreeni’s services, visit OMFSMD.com. Edith Billups is a long-time journalist, media relations consultant and Biogenesis practitioner, working with energetic tools to help individuals and Mother Earth restore balance.
by Edith Billups
W
hen a U.S. medical team takes off for the hurricane devastated island of Tacloban in the Philippines on October 8, Rockville oral surgeon Dr. Sivakumar Sreenivasan will be onboard, eagerly waiting to serve those in need. The Potomac resident and graduate of Boston University and the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry will be making his second trip internationally since 2010 to help those whose lives have been torn asunder by a natural disaster. Dr. Sreeni, as he is affectionately called by his patients, previously participated with a medical team that served in Haiti in 2010 where an earthquake devastated that tropical island. Additionally, since 2005, he also has participated numerous times in medical camps in other parts of the world, including India and Guyana. Sreeni also regularly volunteers at medical camps in the U.S and twice monthly provides free oral surgery services at two clinics in Montgomery County for residents who cannot af-
ford to pay for dental care. A dental implant specialist, the affable surgeon will be working in a rural area in the Philippines where Typhoon Haiyan (also known as Typhoon Yolanda) devastated portions of SouthEast Asia, particularly the Philippines last November. It was the deadliest typhoon on record, killing at least 6,268 people in that country alone and leaving thousands homeless. According to Sreeni, he started volunteering in India in 2005 “after I heard about an opportunity to volunteer with an international organization that has a health care system that provides free dental and medical service for whomever is in need. That organization, the International Sri Saytha Sai Organization, is a model for the groups, Love All, Serve All and Help Ever, Hurt Never and regularly provides free medical camps around the world.” Sreeni and other members of the team personally pay their own expenses to travel to the Philippines and also will be carrying much needed medical
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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com for guidelines and to submit entries.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1 Sacred Chanting: Kirtan Concert – 7:30-9:30pm. With Ajeet Kaur. Ajeet Kaur is a Spirit Voyage recording artist, yogi and teacher. Growing up in a musical and spiritual home, Kundalini Yoga has always been central in her life. $20/25. Raj Yoga Center, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Sterling, VA. Register: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.org.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 Tibetan Rinpoche U.S. Tour Public Dharma Talks – 6-8pm Topic: The Bodhisattva Attitude, What is the Altruistic Mind? Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: TibetanRinpoche.Eventbrite.com. Info: WakeUp@sSamsaraHouse.org or 4jigmes.org/ New-Events and SamsaraHouse.org. Jivamukti Charleston Comes to DC – 6:30-8:30pm. This class is an exploration into the bhava...via asana, pranayama, meditation, chanting, and shastra. Join Advanced Certified Jivamukti teachers and cofounders of Jivamukti Charleston, Andrea Boyd and Jeffrey Cohen, for a very special 2-hour Jivamukti. $35. Budda B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1ogDTnb.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 Supporting Children’s Emotional Health: Holistic Moms Arlington/Alexandria daytime meeting – 10:30am-12:30pm. Following up on our August panel, we will have a conversation about a variety of holistic modalities and strategies that can support children’s emotional health. Holistic Moms Network Arlington/Alexandria Chapter at Shirlington Library, 4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA. Info: 571-451-8273 or JessicaHMNArlAlex@gmail.com or HolisticMomsaArlAlex.blogspot.com. YoKid 20-hour Basic Teacher Training – 5-9pm. Through Oct 5. The 20-hour Basic Training you will learn about yoga philosophy, yoga poses, games and activities for kids and teens. $485. YoKid at Mind the Mat, Del Ray, Alexandria, VA. Register: YoKid.org/20hr-Basic-Courses-Registration. Info: Ellie@YoKid.org. Tibetan Rinpoche U.S. Tour Public Dharma Talks – 6-8pm. Topic: How to Apply the Altruistic Mind to Create Peace for Oneself and Others, by Sangngag Tenzin Rinpoche. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: TibetanRinpoche.EventBrite.com. Info: WakeUp@SamsaraHouse.org 4jigmes.org/ New-Events and SamsaraHouse.org. Advanced Meditation Seminar – 6:30-9:30pm. Thru Oct 4. Experiential in nature, this seminar takes the student deep into realms of personal awareness and integration with the universal field of awareness - ultimate consciousness. $149/workshop. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter.org. Vocal Toning - Vibration Meditation – 7:308:30pm. Amazingly simple, yet peacefully powerful. Close eyes and resonate vowel sounds with crystal bowl to release stress and rejuvenate body and spirit. $5 donation. Unity of Gaithersburg, 111 Central Ave, Gaithersburg, MD. Info: UnityOf Gaithersburg.org and MeetUp Groups.
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Rhythm of the Seasons: Women’s Fall Retreat – 7:45-9pm. Share a seasonally inspired yoga and meditation practice. $40. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. Bumper Jackons Swing Dance and Concert – 8-10pm. Deeply rooted in their love for early swing, blues, and old time country, Bumper Jacksons are playfully creative with their originals, re-imagining American roots music with both power and tenderness. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mt Rainier, MD. Info: JoesMovement.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 Introduction to Chinese Wellness – 9am-5pm. Through Oct 5. Study the basic foundation of Chinese medicine through food, acupressure, and Qi Gong under the guidance of MUIH expert faculty. $125. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel, MD. Register: MUIH.edu. Info: Events@MUIH.edu. Community Open House – 9:30am-12:30pm. Please come to your community open-house conversation on the future of a healthy, vibrant Rock Creek Park hosted by Rock Creek Conservancy. Join your neighbors for conversation and refreshments. Rock Creek Conservancy at Lamond-Riggs Library, 5401 South Dakota Ave, NE. Info: RockCreekConservancy.org/What-WeDo/Upcoming-Events?view=Events&ohanah_category_id=6. Hands On, Respectful, Chemical-Free Beekeeping – 10am-12pm. Combine, Condense or Create a Nuc. All ages welcome. Our bees are gentle, but stings are a possibility. Bring your own veil, if you want. $50. Azure B LLC, 4730 Bicknell Rd, Marbury, MD. Register: Info@AzureBLLC.com or AzureBLLC.com. Tibetan Rinpoche U.S. Tour Teachings – 11am3pm. Teachings on the Medicine Buddha Practice and How to Use it to Develop the Altruistic Mind. Private interviews possible after the teachings. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: TibetanRinpoche.eventbrite.com. Info: Wakeup@ SamsaraHouse.org or 4jigmes.org/New-Events and SamsaraHouse.org.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 Tibetan Rinpoche U.S. Tour Teachings – 11am3pm. Medicine Buddha Empowerment, by Sangngag Tenzin Rinpoche. Private interviews possible after the teachings. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: TibetanRinpoche.eventbrite.com. Info: Wakeup@SamsaraHouse.org or 4jigmes.org/NewEvents and SamsaraHouse.org. Accunect® SelfCare Workshop – 1-5pm. Learn simple, easy, yet powerful energy medicine techniques to improve your health, manage stress, balance your body, and help injuries heal faster. The technique can be done on yourself, your family, your friends, even your pets. $95. iEmbrace Wellness, Centreville, VA. Register: iEmbraceWellness.com. Info: 571-232-9979.
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Breastfeeding Workshop for Expectant Families – 1-3pm. Practical strategies, lively demonstrations, and discussion to help establish and enjoy breastfeeding in the first 3 months. $60. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. Beer Club – 4-5pm. Come enjoy a monthly beer tasting and food pairing, and first access to newly tapped kegs of limited edition, special and seasonal beers at each meeting. Privileges also include discounts on growler refills and discounts to all Dawson’s Beer Tours. $10/month membership, no minimum commitment required. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 Mommy Meet Up Series: Eat, Sleep, Play, Relax – 12:30-1:30pm. Join us for one or all of our meet ups. Each week has a different focus. $30/class or $80/all 4. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. As the Pendulum Swings: Nutritional Deficiencies of Hypertension – 7-8:30pm. This lecture guides participants through understanding the nutritional deficiencies associated with hypertension. They learn methods of combining nutritional supplements to reduce and/or eliminate hypertension. $15 (Tax deductible donation). Energy Institute of the Healing Arts Foundation, Inc and Healen Arts Acupuncture Wellness Studio, LLC, 4230-A Forbes Blvd, Lanham, MD. Register: Info@HealenArts.net. Info: 301-577-6826 or HealenArts.net.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 Bird Walk – 7-9:30am. Join The Nature Conservancy for a bird walk on the Blue Mash Nature Trail in Montgomery County, MD. The Maryland/DC Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, Blue Mash Nature Trail in Gaithersburg, MD. Register: Karion@TNC.org.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8 Exploring SoulCollage® – 12-2pm. Using SoulCollage® process, play with images to create personal cards to explore what we may not yet know, but glimpse through images and journaling exercise. All materials provided. No artistic experience necessary. $30. Elise Lewis, Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator, Bethesda, MD. Register: HollyMaeDesigns@icloud. com. Info: SoulCollage.com/Elise-Lewis.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 Edible Landscaping Workshop and Book Signing – 6:30-8pm.With Michael Judd. Join author and edible landscape designer Michael Judd in an exploration of combining form, function and production in your yard. Judd will lead a virtual tour through edible landscapes designed and created in the D.C. Metro area while unearthing the abc’s of how to make your yard more fruitful. Free. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386. Living in a Resilient City: An Ecosystem Challenge – 6:30-8:30pm. Hear from an expert panel and participate in an interactive, scenario-based program with a team to brainstorm how to make D.C. a more resilient city. $10/regular admission and $7/students. The Koshland Science Museum of the National Academy of Sciences and The Nature Conservancy, 525 E St, NW. Register: Eventbrite. com/e/Living-in-a-Resilient-City-an-EcosystemChallenge-Tickets-12779027415. Info: KoshlandScience-Museum.org/Events/Living-Resilient-CityEcosystem-Challenge#.VAifvJx0axA.
specialevent Special Screening of
More than Honey Celebrating Naturopathic Medicine Week, attend this heartfelt and compassionate documentary that showcases the fascinating world of bees and highlights the delicate relationship between nature and the future of mankind. Meet with naturopathic physicians, raffle giveaways and free samples.
October 9, 7-9pm
West End Cinema, 2301 M St. NW Tickets: Gathr.us/screening/8634 or call 202-966-2563
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 Self-Created Health Workshop – 9am-5pm. And October 17. In this two-day workshop, learn this simple, yet complete system that helps you to discover, release and transform emotional causation of dis-ease into forgiveness, love and gratitude. Miriam Hunter, 8996 Burke Lake Rd, Ste L101, Burke, VA. RSVP: 202-361-7321 or MiriamHunter@verizon.net. Transitions – 7-9pm. With Krista Block. Learn to levitate in this workshop which will unlock the mystery to being light on your hands and feet during transitions. $30. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1B4rQwL. Friday Night Candlelight Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. With Lauren Richardson. Celebrate your Friday night with an inspiring vinyasa practice by candlelight. $20/ advanced purchase or $25/at the door. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter.org. iRest Yoga Nidra Workshop – 7:45-9pm. Join Shira Oz-Sinai in a meditation session that focuses on shedding the stress of the week and refreshing the body and mind before the weekend. $20. Blue Heron Wellness, 10723-B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD. Info: 240-839-1661 or Shira@Awaken MyHeartNow.com or AwakenMyHeartNow.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Redefining Health: Reflect, Re-Energize, and Transform – 9am-5pm. Through Oct 12. Gain 20 practical and empowering skills you can use immediately to create more ease and less suffering. $165. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel, MD. Register: MUIH.edu. Info: Events@MUIH.edu. Yoga for Runners – 3:30-5:30pm. Designed specifically for runners, this class focuses on stretching the lower body (hips/hamstrings), strengthening the core, and opening the upper body for a balanced practice. $22. Yoga District, Yoga District Bloomingdale Studio, 1830 1st St, NW. Info: YogaDistrict.com. Fearless Birth – 5:30-7pm. An empowering practice complete with reading and visualization practices. $30. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. NextLOOK Presents Pointless Theatre – 7-10pm. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center and Joe’s Movement Emporium are partnering to offer this new incubator series for both locallybased and touring artists who want to develop new work with input from the community. Pay What You Want. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mt Rainier, MD. Info: JoesMovement.org.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 Usui Reiki Level I – 10am-4pm. Reiki is a Japanese technique administered by the laying on of hands and promotes relaxation, peace of mind, stress reduction and healing in the body at all levels. This workshop will be taught by Reiki Master Tracy Causley. $120. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200.
specialevent Healthy Living Expo
Join us at Dawson’s Market and explore 50 exhibitors, bringing you information, services, products and talks on how to living a healthy, green and balanced life. Vendor booths include: Wellness Practitioners, Organic, Green and Sustainable Products, Yoga and Meditation, Fitness Businesses and Products, and Healthy Kids Products. Free.
October 12, 12-4pm
Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386. Asana Lab: Opening the Hips, Hamstrings and Groins – 2-4:30pm. From the stability of standing strong we move on to finding fluidity in practice by creating space and movement in the legs, pelvis, and lower spine. $35. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1AXKE1p.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 Healing with Color – 7-10pm. Chromotherapy is the practice of using light in the form of color to balance energy in a person’s body, whether it be on physical, emotional, spiritual, or mental levels. Three sessions. $80. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 Intensive Life Coaching Training – Through Oct 19. Guide clients to discover their life purpose, or provide business, career, relationship, health or spiritual coaching with intensive training through the Life Purpose Institute. A proven process. RSVP: 858-484-3400 or LifePurposeInstitute.com. Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and Neurofeedback – 7:30-8:30pm. Learn how computer technology is changing mental health through Neurofeedback and the amazing clinical results that are being achieved. Free. Natural Awakenings and NOVA Center for Alternative Medicine at Roberta’s Natural Food Market, 9424 Main St, Fairfax, VA. Register: Neurofeedbackhelps.Eventbrite.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD: Study with a Modern Day Master – 6:30-9pm. In this inspiring lecture and workshop, grounded in time-tested wisdom, you’ll discover the promise hidden in the Yoga Sutra, and gather the tools and means to experience the missing element of your practice. It will be like the Himalayas coming right to your doorstep. East Meets West Yoga Center, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Register: 703-356-YOGA (9642) or EastMeetsWestCenter.com. Digestion and Elimination 101: Holistic Moms
Arlington/Alexandria October Meeting – 7-9pm. Dr. Sean Woods of The Chiropractic Associates will explain how digestion and elimination work. Cindy Santa Ana of Unlock Better Health will address nutrition. Holistic Moms Network Arlington/ Alexandria Chapter at Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA. Info: 571-451-8273 or JessicaHMNArlAlex@gmail. com or HolisticMomsaArlAlex.blogspot.com. Working with Ascended Masters – 7-10pm. Explore the lives of several well-known Ascended Masters and discuss how we can work with these Teachers to help us learn from and work through our lessons in our Earthly schoolroom. Three sessions. $80. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Quantum-Touch Level 1 Workshop – 9am-5pm. Through Oct 19. Learn to: accelerate healing, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, reduce stress and more. Address the root cause of disease and create space for true healing. CEU’s available. Miriam Hunter, 8996 Burke Lake Rd, Ste L101, Burke, VA. RSVP: 202-361-7321 or MiriamHunter@verizon.net. Mindful Parenting Course – 9:30-11:30am. With Trisha Stotler. This six-week course will introduce mindfulness and provide resources to help incorporate these practices into your daily and family life. $275 (on sale until October 16). Minds, Incorporated at Emmaus United Church of Christ, 900 Maple Ave East, (Corner of Rt 123 and Westbriar Dr), Vienna, VA. Register: EventBrite.com/e/Mindful-ParentingCourse-with-Trisha-Stotler-Tickets-12349765481. Info: MindsIncorporated.org. Healing From the Heart: Accunect® Connect – 6:30-9:30pm. Through Oct 19. Sat and Sun 9am5:30pm. Learn a powerful love infused healing system in one weekend. Accunect combines ancient healing wisdom with modern neuroscience to create a standalone healing system that anyone can use. Come and be transformed. $540 (with reader discount). iEmbrace Wellness (local) for Future Medicine Today, Northern VA (exact venue TBD). Register: iEmbraceWellness.com. Info: 571-232-9979. Vocal Toning - Vibration Meditation – 7:308:30pm. See Oct 3 for details. $5 donation. Unity of Gaithersburg, 111 Central Ave, Gaithersburg, MD. Info: UnityofGaithersburg.org and MeetUp Groups. Chocolate Meditation – 7:45-8:45pm. Indulge in a meditative, sensory practice. $20. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Ageless Health 2014 – 8am-5pm. Proven Tools to Maximize Your Health/Ageless Health is the most effective way of learning how to create a health care plan that will change your life. $99. Roselle Center for Healing at Fairview Park Marriott, Falls Church, VA. Register: AgelessHealth2014.com. Community Open House – 9:30am-12:30pm. Please come to your community open-house conversation on the future of a healthy, vibrant Rock Creek Park hosted by Rock Creek Conservancy. Join your neighbors for conversation and refreshments. Rock Creek Conservancy at Tenleytown Library, 4450 Wisconsin Ave, NW. Info: RockCreekConservancy.org/What-We-Do/UpcomingEvents?view=Events&ohanah_category_id=6.
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Mount Rainer – Gateway 5K – 9:30-11am. Walk, run, or just meander on an incredible 5k journey through the neighborhoods of the best Arts District you’ve ever lived, worked and played in. $21.50/per runner. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mt Rainier, MD. Info: JoesMovement.org. Mysteries of Water: How it Influences Health and Spirituality – 10am-12pm. We may all think of water as ordinary and commonplace, but in this meeting we’ll explore and discuss why water is, in fact, so extraordinary. $10. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200. Acts of Arriving – 11am-6pm. Join The PlayGround for unique performances incorporating dance, spoken word, and original music while exploring and celebrating D.C. locations. Free. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mt Rainier, MD. Info: ArtLivesHereMD.WordPress.com. Oktoberfest at Dawson’s Market – 12-4pm. There will be live music, activities for kids, and traditional German fare such as sauerkraut, bratwurst, and of course, plenty of beer selections. You might even catch a glimpse of lederhosen if you’re lucky. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386. Restore and Rejuvenate with Therapeutic Yoga Practices – 1:45-3:45pm. This 2-hour therapeutic yoga class releases stress and relaxes the body by blending gentle stretches, breathing exercises, aromatherapy, and supported poses. Appropriate for all levels/conditions. $22. Yoga District, Yoga District Bloomingdale Studio, 1830 1st St, NW. Info: YogaDistrict.com. Curvy Yoga Inversions – 2:30-3:30pm. Explore this energizing family of poses in a body positive way. $20. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. Rest Back into Ease with Yoga Nidra – 4:145:15pm. iRest® Yoga Nidra is a meditation practice that supports you in cultivating ease, healing, and well-being while requiring no effort, physical exercise, or previous experience. $25/ in advance or $30/ drop in. Crossings: A Center for the Healing Traditions, 8505 Fenton St, Ste 202, Silver Spring, MD. Register: AwakenMyHeartNow.com. Info: 240-8391661 or Shira@AwakenMyHeartNow.com. Downward Doll Yoga and Tea Party – 5:306:30pm. A spirited class for kids ages 3-6 years. $20. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 Restorative Yoga Workshop – 12:30-2pm. With Margarita Reyes. In this workshop session you will calm your mind, relax your body and lift your spirit in a soothing and therapeutic way. No yoga experience is needed. $40. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter.org. iPath Postural Alignment – 2-4pm. Whether you are new to Mind /Body awareness techniques or a seasoned athlete, the Integral Postural Alignment Therapy method (iPATH® ) will help create the ideal posture. $25. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1liCfKr.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 Exploring SoulCollage® - 10am-12pm. See Oct 8 for details. $30. Elise Lewis, Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator, Bethesda, MD. Register: HollyMaeDesigns@ icloud.com. Info: SoulCollage.com/Elise-Lewis.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 Fall Retreat Ocean Harvest – 5pm. Through Sun Oct 26 at 1pm. A time to retreat from the world and enter a world of play, ocean breezes, and shared wisdom. $350. Retreats for Self Care, Rehoboth Beach, DE. Register: EventBrite.com/e/Fall-Retreat-OceanHarvest-Tickets-12968993609. Info: 301-332-5782 or WholenessinDiversity@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 White Tantric Yoga® - 7:45am-6pm. A powerful all day meditation course designed to balance the chakras and release subconscious habits of the mind. $145/before Oct 10 or $170/after Oct 10. Students and Seniors: $85 /100. Raj Yoga Center, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Sterling, VA. Register: 703376-3433 or RajYoga.org.
specialevent Achieving Optimal Health Conference
Prepare to be inspired and energized by our world-class speakers, including Congressman Tim Ryan, A.J. Jacobs, Brian Wansink, Rebecca Katz, Dr. Philippa Darbe and many more. Learn about the simple changes that will help you take charge of your physical and mental health. Learn to handle stress, eat foods to help chronic disease and live a healthier, happier life. Throughout the day you will get to try new foods, learn about new products and enjoy a healthy lunch on us.
October 25, 9:30am-4pm
Georgetown University Campus Edward B. Bunn Auditorium, 37th and O St, NW Info: AchieveingOptimalHealthConference.com or call 202-549-0040. Grow Sprouts and Micorgreen in Your Home Year Round – 9am-12pm. Learn the importance of soaking/sprouting and receive supplies to create your own starter kit. $75. Raw Living D’Light, 11109 Byrd Dr, Fairfax, VA. Register: 571-471-2891 or Luzy@RawLivingDLight.com. Real Lyme Solutions – 9am-4pm. Learn 6 affordable solutions to help with brain fog, gut health, joint pain, and balancing emotions. $47. Family Health Thermal Imaging & Detox, 427A Carlisle Dr, Herndon, VA. Register: 703-635-6324. Intuitive Wellness Center Open House – 10am4pm. Free mini-sessions in Quantum-Touch, Access Consciousness Bars, Lumilight Therapy, AromaTouch Massage. Crystals, Energy Sprays, Pet Protectors, Angel Cards, books, and more available. Free drawings for healing crystals. Intuitive Wellness Center, 8996 Burke Lake Rd, Ste L101, Burke, VA. Info: 202-361-7321 or MiriamHunter@verizon.net. Kids Cooking Adventure – 10-11am. Join Miss Rose as she hunts through the store in search of fresh and tasty ingredients to create exciting and educational meals. Gain knowledge about healthy food choices as you cook up a storm. For ages 7– 12 years. $5 and you must register in advance. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Register: 240-428-1386. Psychic Reading-Go-Round – 12-5pm. Ride the Psychic Speed Reading-Go-Round. Buy one ticket for $59 and you’re guaranteed to get four different
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
readings in one hour. $59. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200. Yoga 4 Classrooms Professional Development Workshop – 12-6pm. Learn simple, fun yoga and mindfulness techniques for a more peaceful, productive school day. Perfect for K-12 educators and school professionals. Register by Oct. 15. $180. Yoga 4 Classrooms at UDC Community College - Division of Continuing Education. Register: Yoga4Classrooms.com. Info: 202-599-0434 or Yoga@ BreathingSpaceDC.com. Breath, Bandas and Backbends: An Ashtanga Workshop – 4-6pm. Backbends require equal measures of control and abandon: strength and flexibility on the physical level as well as an open heart on the subtle level. $30. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1BqEAhj. And Then Comes Baby (Newborn and Postpartum Workshop) – 5:30-7:30pm. Learn self-care practices and tips to make post-partum life easier. $30. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. Thrill the World – 5:30-8pm. Thrill the World is friends, families and other local residents who each year join together with thousands of other people around the globe to break the World Record for the Largest Simultaneous Dance to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Free. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mt Rainier, MD. Info: JoesMovement.org.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 Jazz Brunch – 11am-2pm. Join us for our monthly Jazz Brunch featuring live music. All you can eat brunch buffet that includes an extended breakfast bar of locally-made bagels, smoked salmon, salad bar, made to order omelet and waffle stations, dessert, and mimosa tasting. Kids 3 and under are free so bring your whole family. $14.99/adult and $5.99/ kids 4-10. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386. Palmistry 101: The Wisdom of Your Hands – 1-4pm. Find out the truth about the lines in your hands in this fast-paced, interactive and fun class with a certified hand analyst who has professionally read more than 10,000 pairs of hands in the past decade. $40. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com. Info: 703-392-9200. Kickstart Your Health with Dr. Barnard’s 21 Day Program – 2-4pm. The Food for Life: Kickstart Your Health curriculum is based on PCRM’s successful 21-Day Vegan Kickstart online program. Free. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, Ste 202, NW. Register: Bit.ly/1nwgTKY. Thrive: Yoga as Life – 6:30-9:30pm. In this series of 3 Sunday nights we will stretch, breathe, read, connect, meditate and discuss the concepts and philosophies of yoga as a lifestyle. $150. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 Movie Night: Fed Up – 7-9:30pm. Everything we’ve been told about food and exercise for the past 30 years is dead wrong. From Katie Couric and Laurie David, Fed Up will change the way you eat forever. $5 includes non-GMO snacks and donation to a local charity. Neck, Back and Beyond, 10560 Main St, Ste 204, Fairfax, VA. Info: 703-865-5690 or NeckBackandBeyond@gmail.com.
ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com for guidelines and to submit entries.
sunday Beginners and Beyond – 8:30-10am. The age-old Indian practice blends classic poses with meditation, chants and breathe work in order to stimulate the nervous and glandular systems. When used in sequences, the elements can stimulate weight loss and help practitioners adjust their spin. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com. Dupont Circle FreshFarm Market – 9am-2pm. A producer-only farmers’ market. Only regional growers from the Chesapeake Bay watershed region (DE, MD, PA, VA and WV) may sell at market. 20th St, NW, between Massachusetts Ave and Hillyer Pl, NW and the adjacent bank parking lot. Info: 202-362-8889. Meditation – 9-10am. Open to all levels of practice. Donation. East Meets West Yoga, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Info: 703356-9642 or Dawn@EastMeetsWestCenter.com or EastMeetsWestCenter.com. Open Level GYROTONIC® Group – 10-11am. Gyrotonic pulley tower group class, aims to improve flexibility while also increasing strength and muscle tone. $25-35/session. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. Register: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com or ElementsCenter.com. Sunday Morning Meditation Class – 10:30am12:30pm. With Hugh Byrne. An oasis in a busy week, including 30-minute guided meditations, a 10-minute walking meditation, and 30-minute discussion. A mini-retreat. Drop-ins welcome. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org. West African Dance – 11:30am-12:30pm. Throughout the African continent, dance and music have long been a part of the collective culture, bringing people together for praise, celebration, motivation, and healing. Immerse yourself in this beautiful experience as you learn dances from Guinea and Mali, West Africa. Accompanied by live drumming. $18. MamaSita Studio, 6906 4th St, NW. Info: GoMamaSita.org. Yoga for Women Cancer Survivors – 12-1pm. A gentle yoga class that encourages and nurtures warrior women from brand-new beginners to experienced yoginis undergoing treatment for and in remission from cancer. Suggested donation is $10. Proceeds benefit Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Circle Yoga, 3838 Northampton St, NW. Info: 202686-1104 or CircleYoga.com. Sunday iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation – 6-7pm. Dubbed “Sleep of the Yogi”, this meditation is easy, relaxing, and has been clinically proven to decrease symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and depression. $20. OurSpace, 809 Easley St,
Silver Spring, MD. Register: AwakenMyHeartNow. com/Sunday-Yoga-Nidra-Sessions.html.
monday Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. A beautiful way to start your day, with a 30-minute meditation and optional 15-minute discussion following. Drop-ins welcome. A project of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW). The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LivingMindfully.org. Laughter Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Laughter yoga (breathing, clapping, and movement) is designed to relax us and to boost our creativity. This wacky, silly, and fun practice has been proven to reduce stress and strengthen the immune system. The session ends with a brief silent meditation. Just show up. Free. Arlington Laughter Yoga at Arlington Central Library, 1015 N Quincy St, Arlington, VA. Info: ArlingtonLaughterYoga@yahoo.com. Yoga – 6:30-8pm. A fluid contemplation in motion and balance of breath, this yoga class nurtures harmony of mind and body as we work with alignment and awareness, deep stretching and relaxation for a revitalizing experience. $10. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mount Rainier, MD. Register: JoesMovement.org. A Course in Miracles – 7-8:30pm. Discussion group focused on returning to love through the study of A Course in Miracles. New members are definitely welcome. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, LLC, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC.com. Info: 703-392-9200. Free Yoga Monday Night in Bloomingdale – 7-8pm. Power Flow levels 1-2. Beginners welcome. Space Limited to 6 slots. RSVP required at least 24 hours in advance. Your email will be added to our mailing list, unsubscribe anytime. RSVP: FreeYoga@SamsaraHouse.org. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Info: SamsaraHouse.org. Yoga for Women Cancer Survivors – 7-8:15pm. Weekly meditative, gentle and restorative yoga using mindful movement, balance and breathing techniques to reduce anxiety, improve quality of life, and regain sense of self. Scholarships available. $7. Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255 Loughboro Rd, NW. Register: Sibley.org/CancerSupport. Info: 202243-2320 or Pgoetz4@jhmi.edu. Classic Kundalini Yoga – 7:15-8:45pm. The ageold Indian practice blends classic poses with meditation, chants and breath work in order to stimulate the nervous and glandular systems. When used in sequences, the elements can stimulate weight loss and help practitioners adjust their spin. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com.
Tai Chi – 8-9pm. Learn and enjoy peaceful slow movements, balance, and meditation, this class is for youth and adults who will study the movements of Tai Chi Chun long form. Tai Chi is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for health benefits, self control, and relaxation. $10. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mount Rainier, MD. Register: JoesMovement.org. Yoga Level 1 and 2 – 8:30-9:30pm.Starts with warm-upsrelaxing the joints and connecting with the breath then building heat with vinyasa flow. Close with restorative poses and guided meditation. $20/drop in. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter.org.
tuesday Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. See Monday for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org. Beginners and Beyond – 9:45-11am. See Sunday for details. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com. Open-Level GYROTONIC® Group – 1-2pm. $25-35/session. See Sunday for details. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter. com or ElementsCenter.com. Meet the Locals – 4-7pm. 2nd Tues. Come sample products from our favorite local vendors while you enjoy a glass of beer or wine, on the second Tuesday of every month. Free. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: 240-428-1386. Hoop Jam – 6:45-8:15pm. With Noelle Powers. Lift your spirits and get a full-body workout accompanied by a super hoop-friendly soundtrack. All ages and skill levels are welcome at this drop in jam. A lesson for those interested is presented in the first half hour of jam, and the remaining hour is self-directed. $10. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mount Rainier, MD. Register: JoesMovement.org. An Introduction to Waking Down in Mutuality – 7-9:30pm. 2nd Tues. Many, if not almost all, of us have a deep hunger to be really seen as who we are, in a loving and compassionate fashion that acknowledges our inner beauty and all the struggles we have faced. An introductory evening facilitated by aspiring Waking Down in Mutuality mentor Cullen Kowalski. $20. (Includes a free copy of Becoming Divinely Human: A Direct Path to Embodied Awakening by CC Leigh). Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: DCIntroWakingDown. eventbrite.com. Info: Wakeup@SamsaraHouse.org or WakingDown.org/About-Waking-Down. Beginners and Beyond – 7-8:30pm. See Sunday for details. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com. Conscious Manifesting – 7-9pm. 2nd and 4th Tues. Come manifest and create abundance, joy and success in the “Theta” state together with the powerful energy of the group. Includes a brief introduction to thetahealing and how we work with it here.
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$40/online or $45/at the door. Joyous Vibrations LLC at the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment, 222 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA. Register: JoyousVibrations.com. From Democracy to Holacracy: A Better Way Forward – 7-9:30pm. 3rd Tues. Come experience ar(e) volutionary way for humanity to work together without hierarchy, managers or titles which has the potential to create a more responsive, conscious and coherent world, with purpose, everybody-all-at-once. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW. Register: Meetup.com/DCHolacracy-Practice-Meetup. Info: Wakeup@Samsara House.org or Holacracy.org and Samsarahouse.org. I Meditate DC: Introduction to the Art of Living – 7-8pm. Refresh and rejuvenate with a free community service initiative to introduce people to breathing and meditation techniques that have a calming effect on the mind and reduce stress. In this 60-minute interactive session, participants develop insight on how to reduce negative emotions that eat up our energy and time. The Art of Living Foundation, 2401 15th St, NW. Register: Secure. ArtofLiving.org/Events.aspx.
wednesday Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. See Monday for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org. Pilates – 8:30-9:30am. This Pilates mat class is suitable for students who are new to pilates or who have already been introduced to the method. The first two classes will focus on fundamental concepts in pilates and each week will build on the last. $10. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mount Rainier, MD. Register: JoesMovement.org. Yoga Basics – 9:30-10:30am. In this four-week session, learn the fundamentals of asana and breathwork in a semi-private class. $60. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Tenleytown. Info: LilOmm.com. Yoga for Women Cancer Survivors – 9:3010:45am. See Monday for details. Scholarships available. $7. Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255 Loughboro Rd, NW. Register: Sibley.org/CancerSupport. Info: 202-243-2320 or Pgoetz4@jhmi.edu. Advanced GYROTONIC® Group – 10-11am. For clients with a significant amount of experience in the GYROTONIC method. $25-35/session. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste
217, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com or ElementsCenter.com. Farmers’ Market – 11am-2pm. Every week the Farmers’ Market transforms itself as different fruits and vegetables become available throughout the season. Your pick of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, bedding plants, cut flowers, preserves, honey, herbs, baked goods, and more. Free. Dawson’s Market, 225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD. Info: DawsonsMarket.com/Farmers-Market. Tai Chi/KiGong – 12:10-1pm. Experience DahnMuDo, derived from the ancient tradition of Korean healing and martial arts forms. It can be literally translated as “the art of being limitless.” While many DahnMuDo forms can be physically challenging, it is gentle enough to be practiced by anyone of any age. $20. Dahn Yoga DC, 700 14th St, NW. Register: 202-393-2440. Introduction to the Transcendental Meditation Program: the technique for inner peace and wellness – 6:30-8pm. The TM technique is easy to learn, enjoyable to practice and cultural neutral. It takes 20 minutes twice daily, reducing stress and cultivating transcendence. Bethesda TM Center, 11300 Rockville Pike, Ste 408, North Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-770-5690 or Bethesda@TM.org. Info: TM.org. Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. See Mon for details. $10. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd, Mount Rainier, MD. Register: JoesMovement.org. Everyday Essential Oils – 7-8:30pm. Learn to utilize essential oils for sustained health, healing, and well-being in p[ractical and easy ways. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, LLC, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC. com. Info: 703-392-9200. Free Health Lecture – 7-8:30pm. (Q and A until 9pm.) 1st and 3rd Wed. Free Education Health Lectures at the Roselle Center for Healing (Various Topics). The Roselle Center for Healing & Caring For Others, Ltd, 8550 Arlington Blvd, Ste 325, Fairfax, VA. Register: RoselleCare.com. Gentle Kundalini Yoga – 7-8:30pm. The age-old Indian practice blends classic poses with meditation, chants and breathe work in order to stimulate the nervous and glandular systems. When used in sequences, the elements can stimulate weight loss and help practitioners adjust their spin. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com. West African Dance – 7-8pm. See Monday for details. $18. MamaSita Studio, 6906 4th St, NW, DC. Info: GoMamaSita.org.
Blessing Circle – 9:15-9:45pm. 2nd Wed. The Insight Meditation Community of Washington offers the Blessing Circle to comfort and support those experiencing loss, grief, illness or any of the “10,000 sorrows” of this life. We gather after the Wed class with Tara Brach for a 30-min service of sharing, mindful and supportive listening and metta practice. River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6301 River Rd (enter from Whittier Blvd), Bethesda, MD. Info: IMCW.org.
thursday Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. See Mon for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org. Gentle Kundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. See Wednesday for details. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-3763433 or RajYoga.com. FreshFarm Market at Penn Quarter – 3-7pm. Delicious locally grown fruits, veggies, cut flowers, plants, handmade soaps, meats, cheeses, eggs and more are available every week. Market is open rain, snow or shine. All EBT customers and WIC/Senior coupons customers will receive Double Dollar coupons to match their EBT dollars or WIC/Senior coupons redeemed up to $10. North end of 8th St, NW (between D and E sts, NW). Info: 202-362-8889. Rockville Meditation Free Consultation – 5:30pm. The Rockville Meditation center offers unlimited guided meditation sessions daily. The method of subtraction focuses on completely getting rid of emotional discomfort which is found within the mind as pictures. Rockville Meditation, 11601 Nebel St, Rockville, MD. Info: 301-7707778 or RockvilleMeditation@gmail.com or RockvilleMeditation.org. Energy Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. Classes use merid-
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Wednesdays with Tara Brach – 7:30-9pm. Class includes 30 mins of Vipassana meditation instruction and guided meditation followed by an hour-long Dharma talk. A large gathering of approximately 250-300 people. Beginners through advanced students welcome. There is no registration, but dana (donation) of about $10-15 is suggested to help cover expenses and is gratefully received. River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6301 River Rd (corner of Whittier Blvd and River Rd), Bethesda, MD. Info: IMCW.org.
Washington, D.C.
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ian stretching and tapping to open the energy flow, breathing postures to circulate and accumulate energy, and energy meditation to deepen your inner connections. $20. Dahn Yoga DC, 700 14th St, NW. Register: 202-393-2440.
taught by yoga therapist Yael Flusberg. The class combines breathwork, gentle movement and guided visualization. GW University Hospital, 900 23rd St, NW. RSVP: Jennifer Bires, 202-741-2218 or JBires@Mfa.Gwu.edu.
Beginners and Beyond – 10:30am-12pm. See Sunday for details. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-3763433 or RajYoga.com.
Yoga Level 1 and 2 – 6-7:15pm. Starts with warmupsrelaxing the joints and connecting with the breath then building heat with vinyasa flow. Close with restorative poses and guided meditation. $20/ drop in. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm Street, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter.org.
Community Yoga Class – 6-7pm. Community classes are mixed level, one-hour asana classes taught by a rotating selection of Unity Woods teachers. They are offered by different teachers every Friday of the session. $8/class. Unity Woods Yoga Center. 4853 Cordell Ave, Ste PH9, Bethesda, MD. Info: UnityWoods.com.
Gyrokinesis Group Class – 11am-12pm. Group class starting on stools, moving to the floor and finishing with a standing series. $15-18. Elements Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com.
Classic Kundalini Yoga – 7-8:30pm. See Sunday for details. New students get 30 days of unlimited yoga for $30. Raj Yoga, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, Sterling VA. Info: 703-376-3433 or RajYoga.com.
Yoga for Women Cancer Survivors – 6:307:30pm. Join Amy Dara for a gentle class designed for women undergoing treatment or who are in remission from cancer. We will include breathing, stretching, balancing, and healing yoga sequences appropriate during and after cancer treatment. Our safe and nurturing space welcomes new beginners to experienced yogis alike. $10. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW. Info: LilOmm.com.
Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) Meeting – 78pm. 1st Thurs. Local GIG meeting providing information to people who suffer from gluten intolerance and Celiac Disease. Led by Babette LaMarre, NTP, Branch Manager for GIG of NOVA. Neck, Back and Beyond, 10560 Main St, Ste 204, Fairfax, VA. RSVP: 703-865-5690 or NeckBackAndBeyond@ gmail.com. I Meditate DC: Introduction to the Art of Living – 7-8pm. See Tuesday for details. The Art of Living Foundation, 2401 15th St, NW. Register: Secure. ArtofLiving.org/Events.aspx. Meditation and Mindfulness: Tools for Alleviating Stress after a Cancer Diagnosis – 7-8pm. Join other cancer survivors to learn about and practice a relaxation technique that focuses on breathing. Facilitated by Ashley Nunn, MA. This practice has been shown to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness and in improving sleep and boosting the immune system. Family members and caregivers welcome. Sibley Memorial Hospital, 5255 Loughboro Rd, NW. Info: Sibley.org/Community/Events/default.aspx.
friday Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15 am. See Monday for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org. Yoga for People Living With Cancer and Their Caregivers – 2-3pm. A relaxing hour of yoga
Yoga Nidra Workshop – 7:45-9pm. 2nd Fri. Allow Shira’s soothing voice to support you in cultivating ease, healing, and well-being with a meditation practice that requires no effort or physical exercise. $20. Blue Heron Wellness, 10723-B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD. Info: 240-839-1661 o r S h i r a @ Aw a k e n M y H e a r t N o w. c o m o r AwakenMyHeartNow.com
saturday Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. A producer-only farmers’ market that supplies the Mount Pleasant neighborhood with local fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cakes, flowers, plants and prepared foods. Some producers are certified organic or use chemical-free methods, and the meat and dairy is free range. Producers are all located within 125 miles of Washington DC. Lamont Park, corner of 17th and Lamont, NW. Info: Mtpfm.org. Open Level GYROTONIC® Group – 9am. See Sunday for details. $25-35/session. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com or ElementsCenter.com. Open Level GYROTONIC® Group – 10am. See Sunday for details. $25-35/session. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com or ElementsCenter.com.
Open Level GYROTONIC® Group – 11am12pm. See Sunday for details. $25-35/session. Elements Fitness & Wellness Center, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. Info: FrontDesk@ ElementsCenter.com or ElementsCenter.com. Adoption Event – 12-3pm. Rural Dog Rescue holds its weekly adoption event every Saturday at Howl to the Chief. Fosters and Volunteers Needed. Howl to the Chief, 733 8th St, SE. Info: RuralDogRescue.com. Gluten-Free Living Workshop – 1–5pm. Interactive, handouts, taste-testing, Q & A. For newbies and veterans, covering the how wheat affects the body, daily meal plans and how to recognize nutrient dense gluten free foods. $85/ total with a $25/deposit. Neck, Back, and Beyond Conf Room, 10560 Main St, Ste 204, Fairfax, VA. Register: 703-865-5690 or NeckBackandBeyond@gmail.com. Mid-Summer Wine Festivals – 2-7pm. 3rd Sat. Hosted by Milk Lady Markets, the Mid Summer Wine Festival is a series of monthly wine tastings held the 3rd Saturdays of JuneOctober in Silver Spring, MD. Featuring local and national wineries and vineyards. $39. Milk Lady Markets at Silver Spring B & O Station, 8100 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 301-471-1976 or MilkLady Markets@gmail.com or MilkLadyEvents. org/2014/06/27/Craft-Beer-and-Poetry-Slamat-Wine-Fest. I Meditate DC: Introduction to the Art of Living – 4-5pm. See Tuesday for details. The Art of Living Foundation, 2401 15th St, NW. Register: Secure. ArtofLiving.org/Events.aspx. Introduction to the Transcendental Meditation Program: the technique for inner peace and wellness – 6:30-8pm. See Wednesday f o r d e t a i l s . B e t h e s d a T M C e n t e r, 11 3 0 0 Rockville Pike, Ste 408, North Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-770-5690 or Bethesda@TM.org. Info: TM.org.
YOUR PERSONAL PATH TO WELLNESS
Aminah Keats, ND, FABNO
Naturopathic Physician Specializing in Integrative Oncology
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Dr. Keats works closely with each patient to create a personalized naturopathic strategy emphasizing: Cancer-Fighting Support Strengthening of the Immune System Quality of Life Improvement Reduction and Prevention of Side Effects
ALOE WELLNESS 5840 McArthur Blvd NW, Ste 2 • 202-966-2563 www.aloewellnessdc.com natural awakenings
October 2014
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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com to request our media kit. ACUPUNCTURE CITY ACUPUNCTURE CIRCLE
1221 Connecticut Ave, Ste 5B, NW, DC 202-300-8428 • CityAcupunctureCircle.com
THE GILBERT CLINIC
Jonathan Gilbert, NCCAOM 7315 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 760 E, Bethesda 301-215-4177 Info@TheGilbertClinic TheGilbertClinc.com
Safe, affordable acupuncture care. Pay what you can, $20-$50 per treatment. Join the Community Acupuncture movement.
HEALEN ARTS ACUPUNCTURE WELLNESS STUDIO Akmal Muwwakkil, PhD, LA.c, LMT 4203-A Forbes Blvd, Lanham, MD 301-249-2445 • HealenArts.net
We provide acupuncture, Tui Na, healthy lifestyle changes, weight loss, holistic diabetes care, pain reduction, detoxification to increase life and longevity. See ad, page 21.
NECK, BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER
10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com Neck Back & Beyond offers chiropractic and naturopathic care, acupuncture, massage, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), reflexology, lymphatic drainage and more. lasting change to heal the mind, body and soul. Fitness, educational consultant and hypnotist. See ad, page 16.
Specializing in medical acupuncture protocols for neurological and pain conditions including neuropathic pain from neuropathy or chemo, arthritis, and rare disorders. In hospital training in Vietnam. See ad, page 18.
QI CARE WELLNESS
Julie Rose Ruby, RN.Lic.Ac. 8996 Burke Lake Rd, Ste L-101, Burke, VA 703-975-0475 Acurose63@ymail.com QiCareWellness.com Acupuncture is a safe, painless alternative for treating: Back pain, Gastrointestinal Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Stress Over 18 years bringing health and wellness to our clients. .
W
ACUPRESSURE
AWAKEN MY HEART NOW Silver Spring, MD 240-839-1661 AwakenMyHeartNow.com
Compassionate, supportive and skilled, Shira combines acupressure and yogic meditation in individual/group sessions to cultivate a whole-being path to healing and growth.
OURSPACE ACUPUNCTURE
809 Easley St, Silver Spring, MD 301-388-8085 • OurSpaceAcupuncture.org Natural, affordable, safe, holistic health care in a comfortable community setting. We ask for $15-$40 per session. Schedule your appointment online today.
Washington, D.C.
AZURE B LLC
4730 Bicknell Rd, Marbury, MD 301-743-2331 • AzureBLLC.com Azure B LLC is a small, familyrun permaculture farm in Southern Maryland. We offer beekeeping education, locally made equipment and support.
BEDROOM FURNITURE SAVVY REST NATURAL BEDROOM
258 Maple Ave East, Vienna, VA and 12242 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 703-255-7040 (VA) or 301-770-7040 (MD) Maddie@SavvyRest.com • SRNB.com
Savvy Rest Natural Bedroom is the premier retailer of Savvy Rest organic mattresses and bedding, a Virginia manufacturer, and retailer of fine bedroom furniture. See ad, page 45.
BEHAVIORAL CHANGE MID LIFE REFOCUS
3914 Centreville Rd, Chantilly, VA 571-277-1292 Info@MidLifeRefocus.com MidLifeRefocus.com Positive Behavioral Change consultant. Increase Self awareness for lasting change to heal the mind, body and soul. Fitness, educational consultant and hypnotist. See ad, page 10.
BOTANICAL GARDENS MEADOWLARK BOTANICAL GARDENS 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 703-255-3631 KTomlinson@Nvrpa.org • Nvrpa.org
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, a public garden for all the senses, a place of peace and reflection. Near Wolf Trap in Vienna.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE NOVA CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
4635 Chain Bridge Rd, Ste 100, McLean, VA 703-229-3106 NOVAAlternativeMed.com
Our holistic approach gets to the nexus of your pain and treats your pain’s cause, not just your symptoms. Dr Sanford’s approach and treatment will greatly improve your quality of life. Specializing i n P e r i p h e r a l N e u r o p a t h y, Chiropractic Care, Acupuncture, Nutrition, Physical Therapy and Functional Medicine. See ad, page 27.
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BEEKEEPING
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
CHIROPRACTOR MELISSA WINDSOR, DC, CHC
Chiropractor and Certified Holistic Health Coach Restorative Health 202-244-6661 RestorativeHealth.org Dr. Windsor is a Chiropractor and Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach. She is an expert in using both chiropractic and nutrition in healing the body and balancing the immune system both for general wellness and in the face of specific disease states. See ad, page 38.
NECK, BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER
10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com Neck Back & Beyond offers chiropractic and naturopathic care, acupuncture, massage, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), reflexology, lymphatic drainage and more. lasting change to heal the mind, body and soul. Fitness, educational consultant and hypnotist. See ad, page 16.
CLEANING MAID BRIGADE CAPITAL REGION
4813-A Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 800-515-6243 Marketing@Maid-Brigade.com MaidBrigade.com
MARY KENDELL, MS, NP
Couples Therapy GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055, 202-300-4981 Gwcim.com • SexMatters2Me@gmail.com
THE BIG BAD WOOF
Individual & Couples Therapy GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com With over 20 years of experience, D r. N a t a l i e K o r y t n y k i s a psychologist with an expertise in relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, work stress, eating disorders and self-esteem. See ad, page 2.
DENTIST
SHINING SHAKTI
CONSULTING GRACE PRODUCTIONS
Grace Ogden, Principal 301-445-6771 • GraceProductions.co Grace Ogden leads this consulting and event production firm that supports progressive social change with an awareness of why spiritual principles and practices matter. See ad, page 14.
The Big Bad Woof is a community resource for companion animals and their guardians. We are committed to providing nutritious foods for companion animals whether they are dogs, cats, small mammals, birds or fish. We provide access to organic, holistic and premium raw diets and a wide range of alternatives including holistic supplements for companion animals. See ad, page 11.
733 8th St SE, DC 202-544-8710 • HowlToTheChief.com
437 Cedar Street, NW, DC 202-829-7600
Dr. Lynn Locklear has helped many patients to get their “bite back” non-surgically after a diagnosis of TMJ Dysfunction. An International Associate of Dentists, Top in Washinton, D.C. in 2012. See ad, page 5.
We carry a large assortment of natural, holistic, raw and organic diets for dogs, cats and small animals. Grooming and selfserve dog wash service too!
HERBS
CONCIERGE
Services that give people time for more important things in their lives. The services offered are property care including “green” cleaning, errands, in home/office food services, elder care and training. All services have sustainability in mind and use only natural, no chemical and organic options. See ad, page 25.
5501 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 117 Carroll St NW, Old Takoma, DC 301-403-8957 • TheBigBadWoof.com
HOWL TO THE CHIEF
LYNN D. LOCKLEAR, DDS, LVIF
Shining Shakti creates organic and Earth friendly hand dyed yoga clothes. Visit us at ShiningShakti. com for both retail and wholesale orders. How Do You Shine?
PO Box 212, Washington Grove, MD 301-337-0988 • Muse-Concierge.com Michele.Muise@gmail.com
Sessions and workshops in Quantum-Touch, Access Consciousness, Angel Card reading, Crystal Healing, Sound Healing, Metamorphosis and more. See ad, page 10.
HEALTHY PETS NATALIE X. KORYTNYK, PHD
CLOTHING
MUSE CONCIERGE, LLC
8996 Burke Lake Rd, Ste L101, Burke, VA Miriam Hunter 202-361-7321 MiriamHunter@verizon.net Gina Maybury 703-629-0925 GinaMaybury@gmail.com MiriamHunter.com
Evaluation, treatment, counseling, and education for all sexual health concerns. See ad, page 2.
We are Green Clean Certified so you can have peace of mind that your home will be healthier for you, your pets, and the environment. See ad, page 9.
3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA Info@ShiningShakti.com ShiningShakti.com
MIRIAM HUNTER & GINA MAYBURY
COUNSELING
ENERGY HEALING
GREEN COMFORT SCHOOL OF HERBAL MEDICINE
CRYSTALIS
540-937-4283 Green.Comfort@gmail.com
306 Elden St, Herdon, VA 703-689-0114 Info@Crystalis.com • Crystalis.com Enjoy the healing environment of our store which offers a variety of high energy stones, incense, books, meditation supplies and much more.eing–what you want in life–with full confidence and self-reliance.
HEALING GATEWAY 877-534-5534 HealingGateway.com
Sherry Lynn Dmytrewycz invites you to enter into a healthier, unlimited life with an energy clearing for you, your space or your animals. Handson or distance sessions. See ad, page 24.
Green Comfort School of Herbal Medicine offers a variety of learning opportunities for the beginning and more advanced student of holistic life practices.
HOLISTIC DENTISTRY TERRY VICTOR, DDS
The DC Dentist 509 11th St, SE, DC 202-544-3626 • TheDCDentist.com Staff@TheDCDentist.com Dr.Victor provides exceptional holistic and biological dentistry. The DC Dentist is the first eco-friendly and completely sustainable dental office in the DC area. See ad, page 3.
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HOLISTIC HEALING HAMBROCK HOLISTIC HEALING CENTER
297 Herndon Pkwy, Ste 105, Herndon, VA 571-331-9208 HambrockHolistic@gmail.com HambrockHolisticCenter.com
HOLISTIC PROMOTIONS EARTHLIGHT PROMOTIONS 703-401-9663 BeverlyNickerson@comcast.net EarthLightPromotions.com
Bringing back the indigenous wisdom to our modern world. Organizing sacred retreat, reconnect with nature and sacred sites travel. Promoting holistic healers, traditional ancient medicine and wellness workshops.
Complementary and Alternative therapists in collaboration providing, Hypnotherapy of all k i n d s , M a s s a g e T h e r a p y, CranioSacral therapy, Energy Work, Crystal Therapy, Life Coaching, MindBody Business Coaching and classes. See ad, page 29.
RECONNECTIVE HEALING
Joan Fowler 301-452-3305 Joan@Dove333.com • Dove333.com Reconnective Healing, a new level of healing that scientists and researchers know we now have access to. It goes beyond energy healing spectrum into a new bandwidth of light and information. See ad, page 23.
HOME ENVIRONMENT MIKHAIL SOGONOV, PH.D.
InSitu EcoTesting LLC GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Sogonov@InSitu-ET.com Consulting company inspecting indoor environment for biological agents negatively affecting human health. Mainly focused on mold, also includes sewage contamination and pet and pest allergens. See ad, page 2.
RECONNECTIVE HEALING Debbie Spinelli 305-992-5733 Debbie333Spinelli@gmail.com
Reconnective Healing is a form of holistic healing; leading clients to a deeply transformational path that allows for healing on all levels; physical, spiritual, mental and emotional. As a practitioner and healer since 2011, Spinelli has trained with Dr. Eric Pearl, the founder of Reconnective Healing. See ad, page 23.
RISING PHOENIX HOLISTIC CENTER, LLC
9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA 703-392-9200 RisingPhoenixHC@gmail.com RisingPhoenixHC.com A team of healers and teachers offering classes, workshops and energy healing services to inspire health and well-being. Also a metaphysical gift and bookstore. See ad, page 36.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE ALI SAFAYAN, MD
Integrative Physician and Medical Acupuncturist Restorative Health 202-244-6661 • RestorativeHealth.org Dr. Safayan views himself as a partner and educator, offering medical assessment and treatment plans that combine the best of conventional medicine with complementary and alternative therapies. He offers medical acupuncture, p r o l o t h e r a p y, a n d a l l e r g y elimination techniques
ANGELA GABRIEL, MSOM, LAC, CH GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055, 202-300-4981 Gwcim.com
HOLISTIC PARENTING HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK ARLINGTON/ALEXANDRIA CHAPTER 571-451-8273 HolisticMomsArlAlex@gmail.com HolisticMomsArlAlex.blogspot.com
A nonprofit resource for parents seeking support in their natural lifestyle choices. All chapters hold monthly meetings and most offer supplemental activities.
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Washington, D.C.
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
Classical Chinese medicine, Japanese-style acupuncture, pain and stress management, chronic issues, family care, women’s health, pregnancy, children, Kiiko Matsumoto-style acupuncture, moxibustion, integrative medicine. See ad, page 2.
CHAS GANT, MD, PHD
National Integrative Health Associates 5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW, DC 202-237-7000 ext 104 CEGant2@gmail.com • DrChasMD.com Dr. Gant, an internationally known author and integrative/functional medicine physician, addresses the root causes of chronic medical and psychiatric disorders, unique to each patient in all age ranges. See ad, page 8.
GW CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 908 New Hampshire Ave, NW, DC 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com
A clinic that effectively combines use of traditional and conventional evidencebased medical practices through a variety of complementary and alternative therapies and has many years of close collaboration with George Washington University Medical Center and a variety of physicians in most subspecialties. See ad, page 2.
INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC 1010 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 660, DC 202-298-9131 IndigoHealthClinic.com
The body has an innate ability to heal itself and achieve balance from everyday stressors through non-toxic, non-aggressive and highly effective modalities. See ad, page 5.
MIKHAIL KOGAN, MD
GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com
Dr. Kogan is Medical Director of GW Center for Integrative Medicine where he provides integrative consultations and primary care. In addition, he does geriatric consultations at GW University Hospital and makes home visits to frail patients. See ad, page 2.
NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES
5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 ext 118 NIHADC.com
Leaders in Integrative Medicine and Biological Dentistry At National Integrated Health Associates, NIHA, our team of Integrative doctors blends the best of western medicine and safe, proven complementary and alternative therapies to help the body heal. See ad, page 8.
VIVA IMED
8303 Arlington Blvd, Ste 206, Fairfax, VA 703-207-4646 • VivaiMed.com At VIVA iMED Center where you are a Very Important Patient, we work with you as a partner, listening to your needs, addressing the whole person including your medical issues and optimizing all aspects of your health and wellness. See ad, page 23.
LIFE COACH LIFE DANCE COACHING
410-736-9311 LifeDanceMe@gmail.com • LifeDance.me Michelle Dubreuil Macek offers a wholehearted, mindful, life coaching approach to guide you towards breaking down limiting thoughts and creating space for joy, love and peace in your life.
MARTIAL ARTS DANCING IN SILENCE, INC. 301-466-5894 Info@DancingInSilence.com
Evening classes in Taiji, Qigong, Hip Tinh Mon. All Classes at UPCOB, 4413 Tuckerman St, University Park, MD, 20784. Free Saturday Taji. See ad, page 10.
MASSAGE AT EASE: TRAGER AND MASSAGE Lisa Bregman 202-686-7202 LisaBregman@yahoo.com
Deep bodywork that uses rhythmic, wavelike movement to ease pain, joint and muscle tension, and release long-held uncomfortable movement and postural patterns. See ad, page 2.
MEAL DELIVERY
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANS
POWER SUPPLY DC
MARIANNA LEDENAC, ND
MyPowerSupply.com
Power Supply provides fresh, tasty, all-natural meal plans including vegetarian and grain-free choices. No gluten or dairy either. Order online one-time or recurring, pickup at 80+ DMV locations, heat & enjoy. Use “NATURAL” gift card to save $10 on 1st order. Natural Awakenings readers can save $10 off of their first order by visiting MyPowerSupply.com/Natural. See ad, page 47.
Dr. Ledenac is a Naturopathic Physician in family medicine caring for adults and children. She has a special focus in weight management (body composition improvement), nutritional assessments, pediatrics, and women’s health including fertility care. See ad, page 2.
NUTRITION
MEDITATION
2 NOURISH, NUTRITION & WELLNESS
HUGH BYRNE, PHD Hugh-Byrne.com
Mindfulness-based counseling and meditation instruction. Dr. Byrne teaches classes, retreats, and workshops on Buddhism and meditation in the Washington, D.C. area and nationwide and provides individual counseling.
Marietta Amatangelo, Director 877-428-0555 Info@2Nourish.com • 2Nourish.com
A trusted nutritionist and wellness coach in the tri-metro area, with functional nutrition expertise in digestive and detox, wellness, MTHFR, cancer and chronic conditions.
ROCKVILLE MEDITATION
11601 Nebel St, Rockville, MD 301-770-7778 RockvilleMeditation@gmail.com RockvilleMeditation.org
RAW LIVING D-LIGHT
571-471-2891 • Luzy@RawLivingDLight RawLivingDLight.com
The Rockville Meditation center offers unlimited guided meditation s e s s i o n s d a i l y. T h e meditation focuses on a method of subtraction. This logical and revolutionary method is about removing the problem of emotional pain and discomfort completely. There is also an END to the meditation. The method reaches to 340 centers worldwide and is causing a sensation in different corners of the world. Make an appointment for your free consultation today. See ad, page 11.
NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS
POTOMAC MASSAGE THERAPY INSTITUTE
BIOGEOGENETICS
Whether you are looking for a new career, interested in continuing your education to expand your knowledge as a massage therapist, or drawn to take an introductory class on massage and bodywork for yourself, family and friends–come join the circle at PMTI. Classes and workshops available, as well as massages. See ad, page 38.
Advanced, potent, fastacting all-natural trace mineral/cell salt blends that provide cellular nutrition which improve the musculoskeletal (Pain Away), optical (Clearer Eyes), respiratory systems (Celox). See ad, page 25.
5028 Wisconsin Ave, NW PMTI.org
Adult & Pediatric Naturopathic Medicine GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com
1937 Shipyard Rd, Chesapeake, VA 888-448-8376 BioGeoGenetics@gmail.com WhatisBiogeogenetics.com
Alkaline foods to restore your health and nourish your body. Microgreens and sprouts, foods for superior health. Classes, workshops and private consultation. Available for lectures and home growing consultations. See ad, page 9.
NUTRITION EDUCATION JULIE WENDT
JWendt@GWCIM.com GWCIM.com
My work as a Nutrition Educator is focused on working in partnership with individuals who want or need to implement changes to their diet and lifestyle in order to achieve optimal health See ad, page 2.
KRISTA NOELLE
302-897-2407 Krista@KristaNoelle.com • KristaNoelle.com Krista combines her knowledge of physiology, medicinal herbs, foodas-medicine and the mind/body connection to evoke positive and lasting change with each individual client. She currently sees clients in the Baltimore and Washington area.
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ORGANIC FOOD & GROCERS
SPIRITUAL COUNSELING DOUGLAS KINNEY
DAWSON’S MARKET
225 N Washington St, Rockville, MD 240-428-1386 DawsonsMarket.com We’re Dawson Market, a locally focused, independent, natural foods market located in the heart of Rockville, Maryland in Rockville Town Square. At Dawson’s, we’re a tight knit community of food lovers that all work for the same mission: To be the heart and soul of our community through a strong commitment to local and organic foods. See ad, page 43.
ROBERTA’S NATURAL FOODS 9424 Main St, Fairfax, VA
703-591-1121 RobertasNaturalFoods@gmail.com RobertasnNaturalFoods.com A new health food store featuring cutting edge vitamins and supplements. We f o c u s o n l o c a l , organic, vegan, paleo, and gluten free groceries. Individualized care always given. See ad, page 25.
PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS HERBAN LIFESTYLE HerbanLifestyle.com
Making the world a happier, healthier, better-smelling place by handcrafting herbal bath and body products using organic, natural and Fair Trade ingredients in earthfriendly packaging. See ad, page 23.
PERSONAL TRAINING FITNESS TOGETHER CHANTILLY
3914 Centreville Rd, Ste 125, Chantilly, VA 571-323-2223 JohnMays@FitnessTogether.com FitnessTogether.com/Chantilly Personal training and Hypnosis for Weight loss. Fitness lifestyle training. Private studio setting for adults. Learn the art of selfawareness and progressive exercise for radical change. 18 years bringing health and wellness to our clients. See ad, page 10.
REIKI LUANN JACOBS, SLP/RMT
Reiki-Biofeedback Practitioner GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com
DougKinney@msn.com 301-236-9040 • DouglasKinney.com Gain insight on your life issues from counseling session with spiritual practitioner, spiritual and scientific r e s e a r c h e r, a n d c e r t i f i e d hypnotherapist. Variety of processes available: mapping parental gifts and harms, learning about your special talents, hypnosis, and guided imagery. See ad, page 43.
SPIRITUAL LIVING UNITY OF FAIRFAX
2854 Hunter Mill Rd, Oakton, VA 703-281-1767 • Admin@UnityOfFairfax.org UnityOfFairfax.org At Unity of Fairfax, we offer a welcoming, safe environment to explore one’s own relationship with God in a community of like-minded individuals.
THERAPEUTIC YOGA LINDA LANG
Washington, D.C.
iEMBRACE WELLNESS
Centreville, VA 571-232-9979 Office@iEmbraceWellness.com iEmbraceWellness.com Accunect™ and BodyTalk™ are used to restore the body’s natural ability to heal itself at the mind, body and spirit levels, by clearing the underlying sources of stress that interfere with this natural healing process. Selfcare workshops are offered to educate and empower individuals in their own healthcare. See ad, page 13.
YOGA BUDDHA B YOGA
1115 U St NW, DC, Ste 202 202-588-5885 • BuddhaBYoga.com Experience a place of refuge and a spiritual center where all are welcome! A Vegan Vinyasa yoga studio and JivaMukti™ Yoga Center Affiliate. Open 7 days a week and offering over 55 classes a week, including 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training. See ad, page 11.
GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • TherapeuticYogaDC.com
LIL OMM YOGA
A highly experienced practitioner, certified in the medical, therapeutic arena of Cardiac Yoga. Specializing in chronic conditions and degenerative disease. Therapeutic yoga for special conditions and m e d i t a t i o n a r e o ff e r e d b y appointment with GW Center for Integrative Medicine. See ad, page 2.
A friendly, community yoga center welcoming all ages and stages of life. Offering open and honest teaching regarding yoga, well-being, family and spirituality.
THERMOGRAPHY FAMILY HEALTH THERMAL IMAGING & DETOX 427A Carlisle Dr, Herndon, VA 703-635-6324 Sherri@FamilyHealthTI.com FamilyHealthTI.com
Digital infrared thermal imaging, thermography is a totally non-invasive clinical imaging procedure for detecting and monitoring a number of diseases and physical injuries, by showing the thermal abnormalities present in the body. It is used as an aid for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as monitoring therapy progress, for conditions and injuries. Non Invasive. No Radiation. Painless. Affordable. F.D.A. approved. See ad, page 24.
Luann provides treatments and trainings in the use of Reiki hands-on and biofeedback for self-care, and Reiki care of others. See ad, page 2.
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WELLNESS
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com
4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC 20016 202-248-6304
Y’S ELEMENTS
202-246-9592 YaelFlusberg@gmail.com • YaelFlusberg.com Experienced yoga therapist/coach available for group and individual sessions drawing from a deep well of creative, somatic and reflective methods to help you flourish. See ad, page 2.
ZERO BALANCING LISA SCHUMACHER
4000 Albemarle St, NW Ste 202 202-244-9588 Lisa@Balancentering.com Helping others find natural ways to gain optimum health through Zero Balancing, Massage, Energy Therapy and Herbal Support. See ad, page 23.
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Degrees with Meaning for Careers with Purpose Master of Science in Yoga Therapy Enrolling January 2015 Maryland University of Integrative Health is one of the nation’s only accredited graduate schools with an academic and clinical focus on health and wellness. Here, the ability to be self-reflective and cultivate a healing presence is as critical to your academic success as competence in your chosen field. MUIH also offers graduate programs in: Health and Wellness Coaching | Nutrition and Integrative Health Herbal Medicine | Health Promotion | Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Online, on campus, and weekend options available 60
Washington, D.C.
No GREs required muih.edu 800-735-2968
NaturalAwakeningsDC.com