Natural Awakenings Washington DC February 2017

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

LOVE Lessons Kindness Can Help a Marriage Last

Holistic Dentistry Help Children

Develop Good Habits

ROMANCE and FINANCE The Importance of Agreeing on Spending Habits

February 2017 | Washington, D.C. Edition | NaturalAwakeningsDC.com natural awakenings

February 2017

1

2

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Medical

Scientific

Empowering

Profound Qigong Training

Comes to Baltimore

$149 for 3-Days of AMAZING Qigong Healing “Massive Group Energy” Assembles for High-Energy Yoga & Qigong Techniques QIGONG HEALING & BREATH APPLICATIONS (Level-1) Friday * Breath Empowerment: Generates Qi so powerfully a “Humming Engine” is experienced. * Level-1 Qigong Form: Your energy field becomes so palpable - it feels like solid matter. * Foot Reflexology: Qigong-style pulsing massage stops pain & improves organ function.

ADVANCED FOOD & BREATH APPLICATIONS (Level-2) Saturday * Food-Healing Science: Learn about Free Radicals and REVERSING disease with key foods. * Tumo Breathing: Build Warmth & Qi-Power. Pulsation of Blood/Qi flows down arms & legs. * 9-Breath Method: The Ultimate breathing practice. Blissful waterfall of Qi vaporizes stress.

QIGONG MASTER APPLICATIONS (Level-3) Sunday * Qi Strength Training: Build muscle and raise metabolism with specialized Qi movements. * Tui Na Massage: Give Healing w/Rolling and Acupoint secrets of Chinese Qigong massage. * Wuji Style Qigong: After learning Qigong forms we practice a free style dance of Qi. “Learned more about FOOD HEALING at Qi Revolution than my entire time in Med School!

My open-minded patients now are told about specific foods for helping their conditions.”

- Claudia Gabrielle, M.D, Practicing Physician

Baltimore Convention Center

April 7th-9th, 2017

April 7th is (Level-1) April 8th is (Level-2) April 9th is (Level-3) All three levels $149!

Seating is Limited. CEU’s Available. (800)-298-8970 www.QiRevolution.com natural awakenings

February 2017

3

4

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Heaven on Earth

9 .8 acre West Paltn Beach Sanctuary Almost impossible to find in todays world!

Located in the heart of everything the Palm Beaches and South Florida have to offer but with substantial acreage (gated and fenced) for total privacy and quiet serenity.

Property features a beautiful 5,100 sqft house, art studio, 4 car garage, pool with expansive outdoor entertaining areas including fireplace pavilion. Natural beauty abounds on all sides with flowering plants and trees, abundant wildlife, scenic pond and over 200 mature palm trees. Plenty of space for horses, additional structures or helo landing area.

There are three excellent golf courses, a private jet capable airport and shopping all within 3 miles. The Palm Beach Inter­ national Airport is 11 miles away.

Available turn-key furnished and equipped for $1,950,000. Start enjoying it right away, immediate closing possible.

For info call: (561) 284-0199 web: http://wibiti.com/SOZT email: oceanlandtrust@yahoo.com natural awakenings

February 2017

5

letterfrompublisher Dear Friends, contact us Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Robin Fillmore Contributing Editors Jessica Bradshaw Randy Kambic Editorial Intern Rachel Feidelman Design & Production Irene Sankey Sales Director Laina Poulakos Outreach Director Samantha Hudgins Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C. Phone: 202-505-4835 4938 Hampden Lane, #214 Bethesda, MD 20814 Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com NaturalAwakeningsDC.com ©2017 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.

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.

We have arrived at the month of love! If it weren’t for Valentine’s Day, I think that February would have a serious branding problem. The weather is generally gray and either rainy or snowy, the holidays are in the rear-view mirror and it seems like a long time until the new shoots of spring will draw us out of the February-slump.

I remember in second grade, my teacher, Mrs. Moss, understood how challenging it was to “get through” the month, so every Friday she planned a special mini-celebration for us. We got a little treat and played some games. She would also spend extra time reading a favorite chapter of a book to the class. It was in her class that I became acquainted with Fern, Wilbur and most importantly, Charlotte, the brave spider heroine, of Charlotte’s Web. Now, nearly 50 years later, I can still remember the lesson for February—do something a little bit fun each week and February will fly by.

Our February edition presents a challenging topic­—the sacred passage from life to death. For so many, polite conversation doesn’t revolve around death or the details that make it a sacred passage for the one who is transitioning or the family. Culturally, we avoid the topic because we don’t want to think about it, yet there is not one of us on this green Earth who can avoid dealing with it. If you are one, like me, who just “doesn’t want to go there”, I encourage you to read our feature, “Sacred Passage: Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey,” beautifully written by one of Natural Awakenings national editors, Linda Sechrist, for your own transformation on this topic.

Also, in honor of this month of love, we explore the research on great marriages and relationships. Simply put, the key is kindness. I had heard about research being conducted by the Gottman Institute from a friend who was struggling in his 15-year marriage. While John and Julie Gottman have come up with a compelling prescription on how to make a long-term relationship work, the diagnosis of marriages, between what they label “masters” and “disasters”, is very concrete. If the partners are looking for ways to show appreciation, thanks and kindness to one another in every instance (even in times of conflict), they hold the keys to success and can enjoy a long, fulfilling relationship. Intrigued to know more? I encourage you to read “Kissed with Kindness” this month.

Finally, I wanted to remind everyone that February is Children’s Dental Health month and we are celebrating that by sharing spotlights with two nationally known holistic dental practices that happen to be based in Washington, D.C. Dr. Mark McClure of NIHA and Dr. Terry Victor, The DC Dentist, both share the importance of keeping your children’s teeth (not to mention, your own) healthy and why a holistic practitioner is an important step in that process. Be inspired and make that dental appointment that you have been putting off!

Peace,

Robin Fillmore, Publisher

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

contents 10 8 newsbriefs 10 healthbriefs 14 globalbriefs 20 event

spotlight

21 inspiration 22 healthykids 24 holisticdentistry 26 dentalspotlight 3 1 wisewords 33 32 leadingedge 33 environmental

14

spotlight

34 calendar 37 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.

16 SACRED PASSAGE

Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey

by Linda Sechrist

2 1 KISSED BY KINDNESS

by Emily Esfahani Smith

22 KEEP DECAY AWAY

by Linda Sechrist

24 GOOD HOLISTIC

DENTAL HABITS Teach Them Now

by Terry Victor

26 HOLISTIC AND

BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN

by Robin Fillmore

27 ROMANCE AND FINANCE

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events online: NaturalAwakeningsDC.com within the advertising section.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

28 THE FIVE KEYS

The Importance of Agreeing

on Spending Habits

by Barry Wind and Jeremy A. Pearce

28

For Longevity and Optimal Wellness

by Elizabeth McMillan

30 THE BEST DIET

Choosing Micronutrient Dense Foods

by Dr. Isabel Sharkar

33 ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

25 Years of Films for the Planet

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

22

The Biological Dental Group at National Integrated Health Associates

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.

16

Kids Do Best with Holistic Dentistry

by Helen Strong

natural awakenings

30 February 2017

7

newsbriefs Locally Produced Sleep-Aid Tea Now Available

C

hristian Hyland was having trouble sleeping upon his return home from two deployments to Afghanistan. Over-the-counter sleep aids only made him feel groggy and restless in the morning, making it difficult to work. From this experience, Coyotea, a natural, organic tea that helps promote sleep, was born and now is available throughout the greater D.C. area.

According to Hyland, “I tried everything I could find over-the-counter to help me sleep but was really disappointed by what I found. Many of the products were synthetic and I especially disliked products that were full of antihistamines. I began experimenting with many different herbs and found that along with good sleep hygiene, they were very effective.

But cold brewing at home is normally a 12-hour process. When I couldn’t find anything at the store, I decided to bottle it myself with my two co-founders of Coyotea, Matt Harb and Nick De Gregorio.”

As a melatonin and synthetic amino-free drink, Coyotea combines lemon balm, hops, valerian, peppermint, chamomile, lavender, poppy and passionflower. The ingredients are brewed separately and then combined to ensure that the most powerful ingredients have the most profound effect for reducing anxiety, calming the body, inducing sleep, as well as adding flavor.

Coyotea was initially sold on Georgetown’s campus and in the first days, according to Hyland, “the bottles simply flew off the shelves. We also began receiving emails from across the country asking about Coyotea.” It is now available throughout the greater D.C. area and sold online.

For more information, visit DrinkCoyotea.com.

Positively Priming the Mind Workshop

K

im Serafini, founder and CEO of MindPT, will be the keynote speaker at a Positively Priming the Mind Workshop from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., March 24, in Tysons Corner. Participants will learn more about the research and technology behind the accelerated learning tool called Mind Power Technology (MindPT) that serves businesses, nonprofits, organizations and entrepreneurs in creating positive results by priming the mind to start each day on a positive note.

Serafini is a leading authority on positive priming and how to accelerate learning and change. This workKim Serafini shop is for coaches, practitioners, doctors, healers, educators, advocates, managers, trainers and others.

Attendees will leave with real tools to navigate life more easily and beautifully.

“MindPT is a revolutionary new way to integrate new beliefs and cultivate the mindset and habits of happiness and success,” she says. “Traditional personal growth programs often fail to produce the desired results because they require time, effort and discipline, but MindPT is quick and effortless, based on the latest in neuroscience research and proven positive psychology principles. It is shared in fun and engaging bitesized lessons on a desktop computer or mobile app to create fast and enduring results.”

Cost is $49, including lunch. For location and tickets, visit PositivePrimingFor Success.com.

8

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Mindful Healthy Life Releases E-Book Resource Guide for Local Parents

F

or natural-minded parents that live in and around Washington, D.C., the new Mindful Healthy Life of Metro DC: Guide to Holistic Family Living ebook offers a wide range of healthy family resources.

The new release from the online lifestyle magazine MindfulHealthyLife. com combines all the entries that are in its online directory—practitioners, yoga studios, schools, parenting coaches, health coaches and much more—with lists of activities, events and support groups for Earth-friendly living and mindful parenting, plus suggestions of nature outings and other items of interest to parents who value healthy, green living. It is the work of Jessica Claire Haney, a Northern Virginia mom of two and the founder of the Arlington/Alexandria chapter of the Holistic Moms Network.

The e-book is a must-read for new parents, D.C.-area residents and those new to pursuing a holistic path. Even parents who consider themselves connected to local wellness resources will be surprised to learn about some of the hundreds of listings in the e-book.

The first version of the e-book was released in December and is free to subscribers of the Mindful Healthy Life blog.

An expanded revision of the e-book will come out on Earth Day when the website celebrates its third anniversary.

Mindful Healthy Life welcomes new directory and e-book listings as well as website partners for those who want to support its vision of helping more local families find their way to wellness.

Details on obtaining the e-book and subscribing to Mindful Healthy Live can be found at http://bit.ly/MHLemail. For details on collaborations, visit MindfulHealthyLife. com/About/Work-With-Me/.

iRest Yoga Nidra Training at MUIH

i

Rest Yoga Nidra is a research-based transformative practice of deep relaxation and meditative inquiry that is being utilized in Veterans Affairs hospitals, military bases, hospitals and clinics, hospice, homeless shelters, community programs and schools. A growing body of research shows that iRest effectively reduces PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and chemical dependency, while increasing health, resiliency and well-being. iRest Yoga Nidra Level-1 Training will be offered by Karen Soltes from April 5 to 9 at the Maryland University of Integrative Health, in Laurel.

The 10-step protocol of iRest addresses anxiety in a variety of ways. As one is led through the practice, iRest provides the tools to proactively address feelings, emotions and beliefs that may contribute to one’s sense of tension and anxiety, and enables a person to feel their underlying sense of wholeness and calm even in the face of difficult circumstances. iRest develops the capacity to welcome sensations in the body. In the simplicity of rotating attention around the body in a systematic way, relaxation naturally occurs without “trying” to relax.

Many practitioners have seen, firsthand, the benefits of iRest in both children and adults to overcome insomnia. When sleep improves, there is a natural cascade into benefits across a number of areas in one’s life, including decreasing anxiety, improving mood regulation and a developing general sense of well-being. Once learned, iRest is a cost-effective intervention can be practiced regularly at home with the use of recordings, and is a tool that can be used independent of the health care system.

For more information or to register, visit MUIH.edu/Academics/Continuing-Education/ iRest. See ad for MUIH, page 44.

Massage Therapy in D.C. is a Hot Trend

M

ore and more people are getting a regular massage in the D.C. area. Employers all over the region are realizing the positive effects of providing massage to their teams. Massage not only relieves pain, but also leaves the receiver refreshed and more productive.

Prices for massages can range from $39 an hour at schools like Potomac Massage Training Institute (PMTI) and can run up to $250 an hour for highly skilled therapists. There are also many companies that will bring massage chairs to offices so the staff can have short seated massages, then they go right back to work—feeling appreciated and motivated.

For those looking for a new career in a health-related field, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics ranks massage therapy as a career growing “much faster than average” at a rate of 22 percent, which goes along with the trend of the rise in healthcare jobs.

For example, top professional sports teams and athletes employ massage therapists to get peak performance and mobility. Physicians, personal trainers, yogis, psychologists and more are starting to recommend massage to their clients as a complement to their work.

PMTI is the only massage school in the region, offering a part-time 18-month professional training program. PMTI has had a 99 percent pass rate for the national license exam (MBLEX) for the last six years, compared to the national average of only 62 percent. PMTI has been around since 1976, with a program and instructors that are internationally recognized for excellence. Classes start March 7.

For more information about getting a massage or starting a new career, call 202-6867046, email Admissions@PMTI.org or visit PMTI.org. See ad, page 19.

New Natural Residence in West Palm Beach

D

eveloper Ben Benson, of Ocean Land Trust, is offering a residence in a nearly 10-acre West Palm Beach gated sanctuary emphasizing natural and wildlife features. The largely unspoiled natural property includes large residences, a wildlife pond and mature landscaping, with more than 200 palm trees and frequent sightings of egrets, cranes, owls, migratory birds, otters and other animals. This private secure community is close to all the area’s renowned beaches and cultural attractions.

“The Palm Beach area in Florida is one of the fastest-growing areas nationwide, with its spectacular climate, beaches, culture and healthy lifestyle,” says Benson. “Given its popularity and intensive development, it’s almost impossible to find larger unspoiled natural properties like this one.”

For more information, including addresses, call 561-284-0199, email OceanLandTrust@yahoo.com or visit Wibiti.com/5OZT. See ad, page 5.

Think with your whole body. ~Taisen Deshimaru

natural awakenings

February 2017

9

healthbriefs

Infants Breathing Bad Air May Suffer as Teens

where healthy food comes naturally

WE’RE DIFFERENT from national chain stores.

ALL of our foods and treats are natural and nutritious.

ROCKVILLE • ASHBURN • HERNDON www.wholepetcentral.com

Takoma Park Alternative Care MEDICINAL CANNABIS: A NATURAL WAY TO FEELING BETTER ü

EVALUATION

ü

EDUCATION

ü

RECOMMENDATION

Patricia C Frye, MD Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatrics, Fellow of the American Academy of Integrative Pain Management, Member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians

6930 Carroll Ave Ste 412 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (301) 328-3045 www.takomacare.com

10

Washington, D.C.

study from the Karolinska Institute of Environmental Medicine, in Stockholm, analyzed data on air pollution exposure and lung function in the first and 15th years of life among 2,415 adolescents in Sweden. The researchers focused on nitrogen oxide in vehicle exhaust and particulate matter from road erosion, using road traffic, topography and weather conditions to classify pollution levels. They compared this data to the level of difficulty the teens experienced getting air through their peripheral airways, termed “resistance”.

The study found that breathing problems increased for teenagers each time their exposure as infants to such pollution increased by 10 micrograms per cubic meter, with the strongest association occurring in male subjects with asthma at age 16. The same increase was not present in relation to their exposure to traffic pollution as teenagers.

Lead author Erica S. Schultz, Ph.D., says, “An increasing number of studies demonstrate the importance of airway periphery for lung health. It’s concerning that the effect from the first year of life seems to be long-lasting, although we don’t yet know the full clinical implications.”

Reflexology and Imagery Relieve Preoperative Anxiety

A

nticipating surgery can be stressful, and many patients suffer from In preoperative anxiety, which can cause serious health complications such as hypertension, rapid pulse and sugar metabolism changes. Israeli researchers from the University of Haifa have found that complementary medicine, combined with standard use of anti-anxiety drugs prior to entering the operating room, can significantly reduce preoperative anxiety levels and improve outcomes.

Researchers divided 360 preoperative patients ages 17 and up into three groups: those receiving standard care for preoperative anxiety; those receiving standard care along with complementary therapy, featuring acupuncture, reflexology, individual guided imagery or a combination of the latter two; and those receiving standard care combined with generic guided imagery via CHRONIC a recording.

PAIN Anxiety levels were measured preoperatively before and after the intervention on a scale of one to 10, with scores of four or more constituting intermediate or higherlevel anxiety.

The study found that complementary therapy in combination with standard care produced a 60 percent reduction in anxiety, with the mean score dropping from 5.54 to 2.32. Combining standard care with reflexology and guided imagery provided the best relief, reducing anxiety by an average of 4.22 points. Patients receiving only standard care experienced a slight rise in their average anxiety level.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Photographee.eu/Shutterstock.com

Animal Nutrition Experts Since 2005

FamVeld/Shutterstock.com

A

Fenugreek Eases Menopause Oliver Wilde/Shutterstock.com

A

randomized, double-blind study from the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Research, in Bangalore, India, has found that an extract of fenugreek husk (FHE) called FenuSMART can provide relief from common symptoms of menopause, including night sweats, insomnia, headaches, hot flashes and mood swings.

Researchers studied 88 menopausal women between the ages of 45 and 58. Half were given one gram of FHE per day for 90 days while the other half received a placebo. The study measured the impact the supplement had on the subjects’ menopausal symptoms through weekly telephone sessions.

At the study’s end, approximately 32 percent of the women in the FHE group reported no hot flashes, while the placebo subjects saw the frequency of theirs reduced from three to five per day to one or two. Additionally, the subjects that took FHE experienced a 57 percent reduction in night sweats, a 68 percent abatement of mood swings, a 75 percent drop in insomnia and 58 percent fewer headaches.

Staying on Track over Spring Break

by Rachel Feidelman hough it may seem like winter just started the other day, warm weather is right around the corner. With warm weather comes vacation and with vacation comes relaxation. What many people fail to recognize is that vacation does not necessarily need to be associated with unhealthy behavior. Though daily routines are disrupted during time off work and school, is it still possible and highly beneficial to maintain a somewhat health-conscious lifestyle throughout breaks, both physically and mentally. A happy medium is easily achievable and it takes minimal effort to do so.

First, remember that physical activity does not necessarily mean going for a run or hitting the gym. Instead of using these somewhat chore-like activities to get your exercise in, consider playing a sport with family or friends, walking along the beach or swimming. While you may not be drenched in sweat by the end, these activities will still increase your heart rate and probably work muscles that are typically ignored.

Vacation is a time to indulge in foods that you may not enjoy on a daily basis. However, moderation is key. It is okay to eat dessert or drink high-calorie cocktails, but try avoiding overconsumption. By devouring multiple portions of unhealthy foods, it’s possible that your body will adjust to these habits and it will be more difficult to get back on track when vacation is over. This may also cause feelings of illness during your time off, which is no fun at all.

In addition to staying physically fit, mental health is equally, if not more, important to maintain during vacation. Time off is meant for recharging and taking a break from the stresses of daily life, so make sure to use it for exactly that. Stay away from work emails and calls, catch up on sleep and try to limit social media usage. Instead of worrying about how many likes the picture you just posted got, leave the phone in the hotel room and go out and have fun.

T

Rachel Feidelman is a junior at the University of Maryland, studying journalism and economics. She is also an editorial intern with Natural Awakenings. natural awakenings

February 2017

11

healthbriefs

Fortified Foods Cut Into Supplement Use

September 2016 survey from Packaged Facts, a division of Market Research Group, LLC, showed that as much as 20 percent of the U.S. adult population is cutting back on supplement use due to consumption of fortified foods. Despite this trend, nutritional supplement sales nationwide are projected to increase by $1.5 billion in just two years to $16 billion in 2018.

Fortified foods contain extra nutrients added by manufacturers such as cereal fortified with iron, milk with added vitamin D and pasta enhanced with folic acid.

While the original intent of these additives was to improve nutritional deficiencies in people without access to foods that naturally contain these nutrients, consequences now include an overabundance of particular nutrients for some and poor food choices due to a dependence on fortified foods for others. Ingesting naturally occurring nutrients in unfortified foods allows each nutrient to be absorbed together with the other vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients contained in that food, enabling them to work together within the body, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

Dino Osmic/Shutterstock.com

A

Health Benefits of Storytelling and Making Light

by Susan Coti he best speakers always seem to begin with a tale, an anecdote or personal connection to the topic at hand, and these stories are what people remember the most. These stories stimulate a shared vision, a shared emotional response and almost seem to bypass the brain and go straight to the heart. Of course, it is the brain that processes the words of the story, but a good story, told well, can bring both the teller and the listener to deep states of calmness and serenity.

Indeed, neurological research suggests that tellSusan Coti ing or listening to a story activates the limbic system to pump dopamine into the cortex of the brain, which, in turn, leads to a mellow, mildly euphoric state of mind. Blood pressure drops, relaxation kicks in and the mind and body drift together to a place of peace and tranquility. The listener is in “the zone”, similar to what’s described as a runners’ high or that state of acute focus—an almost out-of-body experience.

Once a powerful story is heard, its benefits can be replicated time and time again. A hearty laugh, connection to the distant past, a soft ache that mends at the conclusion of a tale are all benefits that soothe the soul, fulfill the heart and calm the physical body—a mind-body connection that invites community and peace. As Kate DiCamillo notes, “Tell a story. Make some light.”

T

Susan Coti is a professional storyteller who performs for adults and families in the D.C. region and conducts workshops in the art of storytelling. She can be reached at I Hear Voices by emailing S_Coti@hotmail.com. See ad, page 22.

12

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Enjoying Epsom Salt

by Laina Poulakos psom salt has countless health benefits—for the body and mind.

Epsom salt is actually magnesium sulfate and got its name from a saline spring in England.

Studies have shown that magnesium sulfate is easily absorbed through the skin. This makes an Epsom salt bath an ideal way to receive the countless benefits easily. Known to help ease muscle tension, magnesium sulfate also helps with migraine headaches and nasal congestion. Magnesium sulfate helps to regulate one’s heartbeat and lower blood pressure, making it beneficial in the prevention of stroke and improves blood circulation. The proper level of magnesium sulfate in the body also increases the effectiveness of insulin, and can lower the risk or severity of diabetes.

Epsom salts also help the body rid itself of toxins. A simple bath, once a week of two cups of Epsom salt to bathwater, is all it takes to start gaining the health benefits.

So draw yourself a bath, relax and get healthy all at the same time.

E

Laina Poulakos is the founder of Mother’s Nature Store and a certified aromatherapist and herbologist. For a consultation and products, call 703851-0087 or visit MothersNatureStore. com. See ad, page 11.

If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door. ~Milton Berle

夀漀甀ᤠ氀氀 猀氀攀攀瀀 椀渀 挀漀洀昀漀爀琀 漀渀 愀 匀愀瘀瘀礀 刀攀猀琀ᐠ眀椀琀栀漀甀琀 眀漀爀爀礀 愀戀漀甀琀 戀爀攀愀琀栀椀渀最 椀渀 眀栀愀琀攀瘀攀爀 礀漀甀爀 洀愀琀琀爀攀猀猀 椀猀 戀爀攀愀琀栀椀渀最 漀甀琀⸀ 圀栀攀琀栀攀爀 圀栀攀琀栀攀爀 礀漀甀 渀攀攀搀 愀 猀甀瀀攀爀ⴀ猀漀昀琀 琀漀瀀 漀爀 攀砀琀爀愀ⴀⴀ爀洀 猀甀瀀瀀漀爀琀Ⰰ 礀漀甀爀 匀愀瘀瘀礀 刀攀猀琀 漀爀最愀渀椀挀 洀愀琀琀爀攀猀猀 眀椀氀氀 戀攀 洀愀搀攀 樀甀猀琀 昀漀爀 礀漀甀⸀

嘀椀猀椀琀 甀猀 愀渀搀 猀攀攀 眀栀礀 攀瘀攀爀礀漀渀攀 椀猀 猀眀椀琀挀栀椀渀最 琀漀 渀愀琀甀爀愀氀 氀愀琀攀砀 匀刀一䈀⸀挀漀洀

㈀㔀㠀 䴀愀瀀氀攀 䄀瘀攀 䔀⸀

嘀椀攀渀渀愀Ⰰ 嘀䄀 ⠀㜀 ㌀⤀ ㈀㔀㔀ⴀ㜀 㐀

㄀㈀㈀㐀㈀ 刀漀挀欀瘀椀氀氀攀 倀椀欀攀

刀漀挀欀瘀椀氀氀攀Ⰰ 䴀䐀

natural awakenings

⠀㌀ ㄀⤀ 㜀㜀 ⴀ㜀 㐀

February 2017

13

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

Heave Ho Richard Whitcombe/Shutterstock.com

Abandoned and Lost Fishing Gear Pollutes the Seas

Pema Choepel Mallu, DVM, CVA, MAc, LAc

Compassionate Care for your Pet

$25 offisit

V First Dr ’s mbined

e co Not to nby other offer. with a

Expires 3/16/1

7

Acupuncture • Dentistry Stem Cell & PRP Therapy Food & Ozone Therapy • Herbs Chiropractic • Homeopathy Surgery • Lab • X-Ray • Laser Therapy We now offer grooming Services

240-715-6570

12627 Wisteria Drive, Suite C&D Germantown, MD

HolisticVeterinaryHealing.com 14

Washington, D.C.

Free Fuel

Hydrogen Conversion From Water Making Gains Scientists at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in Stockholm, report that they have finally unlocked a major barrier to exploiting a renewable energy source through extracting pure hydrogen from water. Because the best-performing catalysts for electrochemical oxidation, or “water splitting”, are expensive precious metals, the research team led by KTH Professor Licheng Sun developed molecular catalysts for water oxidation with an efficiency approaching that of natural photosynthesis comprising common, abundant elements, all of which could help change the economics of large-scale hydrogen fuel production.

Meanwhile, Daniel Nocera, a professor of energy at Harvard University, and Pamela Silver, a professor of biochemistry and systems biology at Harvard Medical School, have co-created a system that uses solar energy to split water molecules and hydrogen-eating bacteria to produce liquid fuels. Their paper, whose lead authors include post-doctoral fellow Chong Liu and graduate student Brendan Colón, was recently published in Science.

“This is a true artificial photosynthesis system,” says Nocera. “Previously, people were using artificial photosynthesis for water-splitting, but this is a true A-to-Z system, and we’ve greatly exceeded the efficiency of photosynthesis in nature.”

Sashkin/Shutterstock.com

We view your animal as a whole and focus on the root of the disease for projected long term healing

Abandoned and lost fishing gear such as traps, crab pots and nets litter the ocean floor in coastal areas worldwide, continuing to attract, entrap and kill fish and other marine life. The Associated Press reports that global nonprofits, governments and companies are engaged in efforts to retrieve and recycle as many of the items as possible to protect the environment, save marine life and reduce hazards to marine navigation.

A 2009 United Nations report estimated there are 640,000 tons of discarded fishing nets deep below the ocean surface worldwide. Recommended solutions include degradable panels on traps that break down and allow trapped marine life to escape. International agreements prohibit dumping fishing equipment at sea; yet in England, small vessels can amass landfill charges of roughly $700 per year, giving them an incentive to ditch broken gear.

Pascal van Erp, a Dutch diver alarmed by the amount of equipment he’s encountered, founded the Ghost Fishing Foundation to tackle the issue. He says, “It’s found in all seas, oceans and inland waters at all depths, along the beach and under the sand. I don’t think the problem can be resolved completely, but we can keep it from getting worse by showing the problem to the public and the authorities.” Industry experts and scientists estimate that commercial fishermen annually lose about 10 percent of their traps due to bad weather.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Veggie Tales

Selfies Promote Animal Cruelty and Death Zachary Crockett, of Pricenomics.com, has found that since 2014, 49 people were killed in attempts to take pictures of themselves with wild creatures. Although there are no statistics on how many animals have been harmed due to selfies, wildlife organizations such as Care for the Wild International are appealing to the public to stop using animals as props.

Visitors to China’s Yunnan Wild Animal Park lured captive peacocks from their enclosure and grabbed them by their tails. The birds died as a result. Another group of people at a beach in Argentina was filmed mobbing a baby Franciscana dolphin, an endangered species, while taking pictures, resulting in its death likely through shock and severe dehydration from being removed from the water for too long.

Due to the high demand by tourists to take pictures with wild animals, special photographic settings are popping up in Mexico, Europe and Morocco. However, the Association for British Travel Agents stated that no legitimate sanctuary would allow animals to be used as photo props.

Fungus Among Us Genetically Altered Mushrooms Approved for Consumption

Soru Epotok/Shutterstock.com

Watch the Birdie

Bevan Young/Shutterstock.com

A recent study from the University of Western Australia has found that plants regularly react to and emit sounds through a series of clicks produced by their roots, and that such inter-flora communication may be essential to their survival. Evolutionary biologist Monica Gagliano, who made the discovery, listened to the roots of young corn plants and found that they regularly produced sounds in the range of 220Hz, a frequency audible to the human ear.

Plants have been shown to influence each other in many ways through nanomechanical oscillations on a molecular scale. Gagliano remarks, “Scientists also know that plants use volatile chemicals to communicate with each other.”

Another biological research team under the direction of Professor Olaf Kruse, Ph.D., scientific director of the Center for Biotechnology at Germany’s Bielefeld University, has shown that green algae not only engages in photosynthesis, but also has an alternative source of energy: It can draw it from other plants (Nature Communications).

Gagliano comments, “Considering that entire forests are all interconnected by networks of fungi, maybe plants are using fungi the way we use the Internet.”

Repurposed Pallets

Texas Company Turns Wood Waste into Furniture Nearly 2 billion wooden pallets are currently in circulation in the U.S., consuming around 50 percent of the country’s annual hardwood harvest and representing more than 90 percent of the world’s shipping waste. PalletSmart, in Fort Worth, Texas, has been making furniture, home decor and custom projects out of repurposed pallets and other reclaimed material since 2012.

Company co-founder John Zaskoda says, “As with any business, we are looking to grow, but want to be smart about it. For now, we are staying put, taking custom residential and commercial orders and producing top-notch furniture.”

He sees the endeavor as proof that with hard work and consistency it’s possible to make trash into treasure.

holbox/Shutterstock.com

leungchopan/Shutterstock.com

Plants Communicate with Sound

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is a new method of editing genomes of farm animals and food crops.

White button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) that have been genetically modified to delay the natural browning process are the first CRISPRedited organisms to receive approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Yinong Yang, a plant pathologist from Penn State University, crafted the modified mushrooms by targeting the family of genes responsible for the browning effect seen in produce when sliced and exposed to oxygen.

Yang was able to reduce the browning enzyme’s work by 30 percent and was granted approval from the USDA because no foreign or altered DNA was integrated into the mushroom genome. The department only assesses whether there’s a risk that the new modified variety of an organism could become a weed or “pest” to other plants.

The mushrooms may still be subject to Food and Drug Administration or Environmental Protection Agency regulations. The National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine are in discussions about developing a new set of rules for the biotech industry in the next five to 10 years.

Source: Nature.com

Source: PalletSmart360.com natural awakenings

February 2017

15

PASSAGE Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey

by Linda Sechrist

W

hen properly viewed, the thresholds of all of life’s transitional moments can be both emotionally and spiritually rewarding.

Whether it involves marriage or birth, job loss or illness, gleaning insight from the experience can yield fresh perspective on how to live life more fully today, if we remain mindful and lovingly attentive through the process.

Like birth, death is a transition we can wisely prepare for. In recent years, compassionate individuals and grassroots movements have emerged to help us conduct ourselves, heal and grow from losing a loved one or face our own passing. An increasing number of initiatives support a new model in palliative care that treats death not as a failure, but an expected aspect of

16

Washington, D.C.

the human experience. Each in its own way advocates for a grace-filled passage supported by dignified, caring and compassionate practices.

Profound Shift

The Conscious Dying Institute, in Boulder, Colorado, aims to restore death and dying to its natural place in the sacred circle of life. Its end-of-life literacy curriculum and certificate training programs are helping to create a new, wisdombased culture of healing teachers and end-of-life doulas that serve among the frontline caregivers and companions providing the comfort people want and need most. Founded by Tarron Estes, a healing artist, poet, Caritas coach and transformational learning educator, the institute is grounded in love, spiritual

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

styleuneed.de/Shutterstock.com

SACRED

openness, compassion and a universal field of consciousness.

“Training is open to nurses, physicians, clinicians, caregivers, family members, healthcare teams and anyone else interested in exploring what it means to die consciously,” says Estes.

It attends to the provider’s inner awakening and helps them strengthen their ability to give spiritual, emotional, physical and practical care to anyone, helping to relieve pain, regardless of diagnosis.

“Rather than curative care, it’s all about seeking to increase precious, meaningful moments, a sense of spiritual sanctity, beauty, interconnectedness and appreciation of life for the families and patients they serve. An end-of-life doula at bedside assures that families and loved ones can focus on what is most important,” explains Estes, who believes that our true nature lives within us as an unblemished jewel.

Helping individuals become comfortable talking about death is the work of Dr. Karen Wyatt, of Dillon, Colorado, founder of the End of Life University, an online interview series with end-of-life care experts. She provides a trustworthy loving environment in monthly death cafés. The author of What Really Matters: 7 Lessons for Living from the Stories of Dying expands the conversation through related articles and podcasts at eolUniversity.com.

Death cafés benefit from Wyatt’s experience as a hospice doctor. “There is never an agenda. Of the 10 to 12 people that generally join in, one is always a new caller, recently awakened to the idea of conscious dying or their own mortality. They’re seeking information and someone to talk to because family and friends aren’t interested.

Some already embracing their mortality wish to explore their thoughts with others. Some callers join just to listen,” advises Wyatt.

Because death in the West has become a commercialized, medical event with funeral home packages the norm, Wyatt recommends the National Home Funeral Alliance to those interested in a deeper understanding of options and resources for a gentler model. The nonprofit, grassroots movement and its members, such as Sacred Crossings, in Los Angeles, seek to restore the lost

Exploring the Mystery

For more than 40 years, philosopher, psychologist and physician Raymond Moody’s life work has been acknowledging the mysteries and validating the unexplainable events at the end of life. His seminal bestseller Life After Life appeared in 1975. Lisa Smartt’s mentorship by Moody led them to co-found FinalWordsProject.org. She’s also authored Words at the Threshold, a study of the nonsensical, metaphorical and paradoxical language and visions of the dying.

Moody and Smartt agree that by better understanding the unique language patterns related to end of life we can share more deeply and build bridges with our beloveds throughout the dying process. “When we do so, we offer greater support to the dying and ameliorate our own experience of loss as they cross the threshold,” remarks Smartt. Like William Peters, founder of the Shared Crossings Project, in Santa Barbara, California, they caution that compassionate etiquette during events at death is important.

“Assume that levels of awareness exist in the dying so that our energy and presence are felt and our voices heard,” advises Moody. “Respect your words and actions, regardless of the person’s state of consciousness. Be a compassionate listener and validate their vision. Don’t pretend to intellectualize or explain anything.”

Sarit Wuttisan/Shutterstock.com

art and healing ritual of a home funeral by preserving the rights of families to provide home after-death care.

Supporting and educating interested families is the mission of Sacred Crossings founder Rev. Olivia Rosemarie Bareham. The certified death midwife and home funeral guide draws from her experiences as an auxiliary nurse and hospice volunteer to assist families with end-of-life planning, death midwifery and arrangements for an at-home vigil and funeral, as well as cremation and burial choices.

“We also offer sacred singing to help ease a loved one’s transition. Music by a bedside soloist or choir before, during and after death can be deeply relaxing and comforting, and even provide pain relief,” advises Bareham.

We rediscover that in order to die well, we must live well. Dying gracefully is the result of a mindful, day-to-day journey—a culmination of informed choices, honest discussions and deference to the hallowed fragility of nature’s life-death cycles. ~William Rosa

Dianne Gray, president and executive director of the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation, also owns Hospice and Healthcare Communications. “The dying often wish to leave here surrounded by peace and harmony. They choose to let go of contentiousness and often wish family members would do the same, which is facilitated by mapping out Advance Directives according to the final wishes of the patient,” says Gray.

Questions she frequently addresses in public talks and Death Over Dinner party conversations include: the necessity of finishing unfinished business; bringing closure to unresolved relationship issues; finding words to express our compassion; soothing the sense of impending loss; and managing to take only love with us to the other side, yet leave enough of it behind to help loved ones through their grieving process. She cautions that no matter how well we plan for death, things don’t always go as planned.

“Sometimes no matter how many advance care conversations have taken place, discord can dismantle the best laid plans. It requires the tough work of compassionate communications. Friends and families need to remember that this is the patient’s end-of-life experience, not theirs. It is possible to find peace in the midst of conflict, understanding that the one leaving overwhelmingly wishes for a peaceful passing, including peace within the family.”

The Death Over Dinner initiative, founded by Michael Hebb in 2013, has been hosted by groups in more than 20 countries to help people engage in conversations on “how we want to die”—the most vital and costly discussion Americans aren’t having (DeathOverDinner.org/stories).

Practical Plans

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and its 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy program offer a free downloadable national Guide to Financial Decisions: Implementing an End-of-Life Plan at Tinyurl.com/EssentialPlanNeeds.

It includes basic descriptions of issues that arise as we age beyond retirement and details the critical documents needed for the individual, dependents, property, assets, estate planning, wills and trusts. It also addresses issues related to advance, treatment and do-notresuscitate directives, insurance, types of funerals and costs, and Social Security, Medicare and veterans’ benefits. Guidelines suggest consulting with a certified public accountant or personal financial planning specialist.

The latest innovation is the blessing of a living funeral, a celebration of life while the honoree is present to hear the eulogies, praises and farewells before they depart.

AgingWithDignity.org provides a downloadable Five Wishes document, a popular advance directive, or living will that covers personal, spiritual, medical and legal aspects. It’s easy to use and can serve as a family guide to prompt conversations about personal care preferences in the event of serious illness.

New York Times journalist Mark Leibovich wrote about how Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy chose to spend his final weeks in pursuit of a “good ending.” As death approached,

natural awakenings

February 2017

17

As many as 80 percent of us say we want to die at home.

Writing Our Legacy

~CNN

by Linda Sechrist

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

18

Washington, D.C.

I

n their books Caring for the Dying and Having the Last Say, authors Henry Fersko-Weiss and Alan Gelb, respectively, advocate reviewing our life and writing a short narrative to explore its value as we approach our final act of Earth’s play.

Processing experiences from the past and what they mean at this juncture presents us an opportunity to achieve greater clarity and integrate them in a positive way in our life story. According to Fersko-Weiss, it has the power to reduce depression, increase life satisfaction, promote acceptance of self and enhance integrity of spirit, no matter what phase of life we are in.

The harvesting of life experiences should reflect our true humanity—flaws and all—and what we’ve learned through mistakes and failures, as well as triumphs. Conveying a compelling mythic family story, values we’ve lived by and our embrace of meaningful relationships will help the people we know understand that, for all its difficulties and complexities, life is worth living.

Our narrative, whether recorded as an essay or scripted video, becomes an act of praise for the gift of the life we’ve led, imperfect as it may have been. It can also serve as a potential keepsake that passes along life lessons and values from one generation to another.

Gelb suggests that summing up what’s most important to us in 500 to 1,000 words can be an experience to savor and enjoy at a reflective time in life, an opportunity to capture our legacy and even serve as our own eulogy.

When we want a loved one no longer here to feel near to us and hear them one last time, it’s a way for them to literally have the last say, he adds.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Have a nice day Photo/Shutterstock.com

Kennedy told friends that he wanted to take stock of his life and enjoy the gift of his remaining days with the people he loved most. As a result, he continued enjoying his morning ritual of reading newspapers while drinking coffee, playing with his dogs, watching James Bond movies with his wife and holding family dinners and sing-alongs near nightly. He reveled in his bedside view of Nantucket Sound, sailed when he could and ate lots of his favorite ice cream. His mantra was, “Every day is a gift.”

“As our time winds down, we all seek comfort in simple pleasures—companionship, everyday routines, the taste of good food, the warmth of sunlight on our faces,” remarks Boston’s Dr. Atul Gawande in Being Mortal. “If we strive in our final months for independence, companionship, mindful attention, dignity, wisdom, joy, love and freedom from pain, we have the power to make those days less miserable, confusing and frightening.”

In these many ways, we can manage to gently embrace and tenderly navigate life’s final transition with grace and love.

Potomac Massage Training Institute Educating future leaders in massage therapy and transforming the health of the Washington, DC metropolitan community for 40 years!

Classes begin every March and September – Celebrating our 40th Anniversary in 2016!

Summer Offerings include: The Most Exceptional 600+ Hour Professional Training Program with a 100% National Exam Pass Rate!

Continuing Education for Professional MTs and Beginner Massage Workshops for the Community at Large Clinic Appointments Available 7 Days a Week: 1 HR Student Massage $39 ~ Graduate Massage $59 Fieldwork Participants and Volunteers Available for Community Outreach and Events Community Workshop Offerings in Yoga, Meditation, The Connection Practice and Respectful Confrontation Massage Therapy Supplies, Books and CD’s for Licensed Therapists and the Wellness Oriented Consumer

PMTI is one of the largest local retailers of Oakworks, Biotone and Young Living Essential Oils! We carry an exceptional selection of music, books and supplies to enhance your massage education and practice. We are your immediate massage supply resource in the Washington Metropolitan area — Visit us today at our beautiful new campus!!

8380 Colesville Road, Suite 600 - Silver Spring, MD 20910 – (202) 686 -7046 – www.pmti.org

natural awakenings

February 2017

19

eventspotlight

The Intelligent Body Reversing Chronic Fatigue and Pain from the Inside Out

W

hy are we seeing growing numbers of people suffering from debilitating chronic symptoms of pain, fatigue, inflammation and cognitive impairment that medicine is failing to resolve? Significant advances over the last half-century have seen medication as the focus of conventional health care. Yet medication, for the most part, merely masks symptoms, blocks receptor sites, stimulates or suppresses the immune system and fails to address the root cause of many common health challenges.

A new paradigm is needed—a paradigm where we understand the mind and body as an interconnected flowing system, connected to its environment, constantly changing and evolving. This paradigm embraces empowerment and understands the self-healing, self-correcting and self-creating natures of our connected mind-body system.

Whether we like it or not, there is a deep connection between our health and vitality, and our happiness and sense of fulfilment. The connection at its core is remarkably simple: optimum health, peace of mind and a fulfilling life experience emerge when we are aligned with our “true self”.

Physical symptoms are simply a sign of disharmony and disruption within body systems, a “tap on the shoulder” from our intelligent body trying to get our

20

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

attention. This “tap” can become debilitating symptoms over time. When we understand that a body in a perpetual state of stress is energetically imbalanced, and understand that symptoms are feedback, we can take the steps needed to facilitate our own self-healing.

In his upcoming book, The Intelligent Body: Reversing Chronic Fatigue and Pain from the Inside Out, renowned psychologist Kyle Davies explains the origins of chronic symptoms and outlines the road to recovery. In April, Davies will host a series of two-day, experiential workshops where he will share his successful, proven Energy-Flow Coaching™ model of illness and recovery that has helped hundreds of sufferers achieve optimal health and wellness.

Who should attend? Anyone suffering—and failing to find true healing— from chronic fatigue, pain, fibromyalgia, adrenal fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome or the variety of chronic illnesses on this spectrum. Attendees will leave Davies’ seminar armed with effective, new tools to rediscover their crucial mind-body connection and the path to restored health.

To learn more and reserve a spot at the event in Washington, D.C. on April 1 and 2 (or in New York City on April 8 and 9), visit KyleDavies.net/Intelligent BodyWorkshop/. See ad, page 27.

inspiration

KISSED BY KINDNESS

P

sychologist Ty Tashiro reports in The Science of Happily Ever After that only three in 10 couples remain in healthy, happy marriages.

Psychologist John Gottman, in New York City, has studied couples for four decades seeking to understand successful relationships. He and his psychologist wife, Julie, founded The Gottman Institute that helps couples build and maintain loving, healthy relationships based on scientific studies.

Using data from his Love Lab at the University of Washington, John separated thousands of couples into two groups: masters (still happy after six years) and disasters (separated or chronically unhappy in their marriages).

One of Gottman’s studies watched 130 newlywed vacationing couples and found that partners regularly made bids for connection, requesting responses from their mate. Choices to “turn toward” or “turn away” revealed the level of engagement and respect in the relationship. Couples that divorced within six years had shown “turn toward” bids a third of the time while couples still together responded to their partner’s emotional need nine times out of 10.

An integral element is the spirit couples bring to the relationship: kindness and generosity or contempt, criticism and hostility.

“There’s a key habit of mind that the masters have,” Gottman explains. “They are scanning the social environment for things they can appreciate and express thanks for. Disasters are scanning for partners’ mistakes.”

People focused on criticizing miss 50 percent of positive things their

Masson/Shutterstock.com

by Emily Esfahani Smith

partners are doing and see negativity when it’s absent. Deliberately ignoring their partner or responding minimally to opportunities for small moments of emotional connection devalues and kills a relationship.

Kindness, conversely, glues couples together, making each partner feel cared for, understood, validated and loved. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers found that the more someone receives or witnesses kindness, the more they will be kind themselves, creating upward spirals of love and generosity.

Practicing kindness during a fight is vital. Letting contempt and aggression spiral out of control during a conflict can inflict irrevocable damage.

“Kindness doesn’t mean that we don’t express anger,” Julie explains, “But it informs how we choose to express it.

You can either throw spears or explain why you’re hurt and angry, which is the kinder path.”

Kindness can also solidify the backbone of a relationship by being generous about our partner’s intention and avoiding misinterpreting what’s motivating their behavior. “Even if it’s executed poorly, appreciate the intent,” Tashiro advises.

Clearly, if we want to have a stable, healthy relationship, exercise kindness early and often and let a spirit of generosity guide happy years together.

Emily Esfahani Smith is the author of The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters. Connect at EmilyEsfahaniSmith. com or on Twitter @emesfahanismith.

Cozy Up To Your Natural Match J

oin the largest database of health-conscious and eco-minded, spiritual singles for FREE and manifest an extraordinary relationship!

Join for FREE at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

natural awakenings

February 2017

21

KEEP DECAY AWAY

Kids Do Best with Holistic Dentistry

by Linda Sechrist

A

ccording to a 2012 New York Times story, “Preschoolers in Surgery for a Mouthful of Cavities,” more dentists nationwide are recommending that children be administered general anesthesia at hospitals due to the severity of decay.

Such extensive dental work on children is largely preventable. Wise parents encourage their children to develop healthy habits such as brushing teeth at least twice a day; eating fewer sugary snacks and brushing afterwards; limiting fruit juice intake to four ounces a day; and sucking on bacteria-killing xylitol lollipops. Such a routine combined with an initial dentist visit by their first birthday can reduce dental costs, including hospital treatment for extreme decay that can cost thousands of dollars.

Other ways to reduce the too-common incidence of six to 10 childhood cavities include breastfeeding only until baby teeth erupt; avoiding transmission of an anaerobic oral bacteria carried in saliva that’s the leading cause of tooth decay; early interceptive treatment to 22

Washington, D.C.

avoid crowding of teeth; and consulting a nutritionist.

Breastfeeding

Andie Pearson, a doctor of dental medicine and owner of Gaimed Dental Spa, in Wilmette, Illinois, tells mothers that in the descent through the birth canal, their baby ingests the bacteria necessary to digest breast milk. As teeth later emerge, their gut bacteria also become able to digest solid food. “By the time a

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Kiselev Andrey Valerevich/Shutterstock.com

healthykids

child has all 20 baby teeth, between 18 and 30 months, they no longer have the microbial ecology for digesting breast milk and should be weaned. Researchers from the University of CaliforniaBerkeley have found that the more frequently a mother breastfed her child beyond the second birthday during the day, the greater the child’s risk of severe early tooth decay,” says Pearson.

Development of facial muscles and bone structure is dependent on chewing and gnawing. “Teething rings facilitate chewing that builds stronger teeth and creates better alignment,” she explains. If childhood tooth growth is delayed, Pearson often suggests a chiropractic adjustment if all other developmental areas are normal. “It can help the body relax so that teeth erupt naturally,” she advises.

Mouth-to-Mouth Susan Maples, a doctor of dental surgery and owner of Total Health Dentistry, in Holt, Michigan, notes that Streptococcus mutans is the leading reason children are hospitalized today. “Cavities are formed when the rate of decay of the teeth caused by the lactic acid produced by the bacteria exceeds the rate of repair initiated by the phosphate and calcium ions in saliva,” she explains.

The unwanted bacteria is transmitted through saliva, which is why adults should avoid licking spoons or tasting foods before offering them to children between the ages of 1 and 3. “This type of bacteria thrives on sugar, so children shouldn’t have lots of sugary drinks and sweet treats,” says Maples. Mouth kissing presents a similar risk.

Early Intervention

Kris Kammer, a doctor of dental surgery and owner of Gums of Steel Oral Hygiene Transformation, in Middleton, Wisconsin, learned early in his career to avoid mercury amalgam fillings and early extractions of bicuspids for orthodontic purposes, and that xylitol reduces buildup of plaque bacterial biofilm on teeth.

A study published in the Journal of Dental Research, supported by findings of a metastudy appearing in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry “shows that regular use of xylitol over six months significantly reduces the Streptococcus mutans population,” he says.

He also suggests early interceptive treatments which can be performed by general dentists. “Parents don’t need to wait for children’s teeth to come in crooked and crowded.

These issues can be addressed with a removable appliance that expands the arch in the roof dome, influences bone growth and makes room for incoming teeth,” says Kammer. Early proper diet may also help prevent crowding of teeth as well as malocclusion, or misalignment of upper and lower teeth, according to Pearson.

“Parents play a pivotal role in their children’s dental hygiene. They influence how their children care for their teeth, behave in the dentist’s office and feel about dental visits,” advises Pentti Nupponen, a doctor of dental medicine and owner of the Halifax Center for Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, in Halifax, Pennsylvania.

Children should be made familiar with dentistry and taught that they are responsible for their dental hygiene from around age 1. Nupponen explains his gentle method: “I encourage mothers to bring their children along for dental appointments so that they can watch me from their mother’s lap. Generally, by the time they are alone in my chair, they aren’t frightened.”

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

No Cash Value - For new students who have never visited our center

Role Modeling

Stress Busting YOGA

New Student Special! $196 Value!

(703) 376-3433

Raj Yoga Center • Sterling, VA ‘Home of Kundalini Yoga Since 1975!’ info@rajyoga.org • rajyoga.org

natural awakenings

February 2017

23

Regain Your Health and Vitality

holisticdentistry

Do you suffer with Chronic Pain? Fatigue? Allergies?

Whatever your health challenges, we can help you get on the path to real wellness.

We don’t throw pills and potions at symptoms. Instead, we will help identify hormone, metabolic, digestive, nutritional and food sensitivity issues to get to the root cause of your health problems, where true healing begins.

“I am confident I can help you get well so you will feel good again.”

Call Today for a Free Phone Consultation

571.529.6699

Our key services and treatments include:

• Integrative and Functional Medicine • Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) • Hypothyroidism, Fibromyalgia & other Chronic Illnesses • Tick Borne Illnesses

• Acupuncture

• Homeopathy

• Integrative Nutrition Consults

• Mold & Environmental Toxicity • Women’s Health Program • Digestive Health Program

For more details go to

www.RoseWellness.com Sushma Hirani, MD 2944 Hunter Mill Road Suite 101, Oakton, VA 22124

Good Holistic Dental Habits Teach Them Now

by Dr. Terry Victor

A

new year has begun and most people are well into their resolutions. Hopefully you’ve held on tight to one resolution— to take better care of your health. February is Children’s Dental Health Month and it is a great time to show children (and to remind adults) the importance of making healthy decisions that can have a long-lasting effect.

Dental practices that are holistic, biological and eco-friendly, like The DC Dentist, differentiate from other offices in the use of essential oils, herbal supplements and homeopathic treatments as a part of our patient care.

We also use herbal toothpaste and rinse.

Also, The DC Dentist looks at each patient as a whole, consulting with physicians about any medical issues and discussing ways to ensure good overall health and consult with patient’s physicians regarding diseases that show up in your mouth. For example, heart disease is evident in a holistic dental exam, which is another reason that it is so important to see your dentist twice a year. We can alert you and your physician to any abnormalities to help prevent future ailments.

While at the dentist, each child should learn the proper flossing, brushing and rinsing techniques to aid in

24

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

a lifelong habit of maintaining good oral health.

Here are some tips: ■ Brush on a 45-degree angle, us-

ing a soft bristle toothbrush, with toothpaste that’s free of fluoride and sodium lauryl sulfate.

■ Floss every day at morning and night.

■ Hug the tooth while flossing.

■ Use an alcohol-free rinse.

■ Floss, brush and rinse after each meal

and see your holistic dentist twice a year.

It is also important to know about the benefits for children of dental sealants, as they are one of the most important inventions for prevention of tooth decay. Sealants are a simple material that flow over a child’s back teeth that prevent bacteria, which causes tooth decay from going into the child’s teeth. The procedure is done when their back teeth first show through the gums.

Each time a new tooth appears, the sealant should be placed.

This is an excellent example of a material that is simple and biocompatible but can have far-reaching effects in prevention of tooth decay.

At The DC Dentist there are patients who had sealants placed as small children. Now 30 and 40 years later, the sealant is still in place and they do not have any cavities. This is an example of one of the best treatments that exists in dentistry. It is quick, easy, inexpensive, lasts a long time and prevents cavities.

As we look ahead this year, it would be good to take the example of how sealants have worked in dentistry and apply it to our lives. We need to incorporate simple, inexpensive processes in our lives that prolong lasting benefits. By doing so, it will make our lives and the world better.

Dr. Terry Victor, DDS, The DC Dentist, provides holistic, biological and ecofriendly general restorative and cosmetic dentistry. His practice is located at 509 11th St. SE on Capitol Hill. For more information, call 202-544-3626 or visit TheDCDentist.com. See ad, page 23. natural awakenings

February 2017

25

dentalspotlight

Holistic and Biological Dentistry for Children The Biological Dental Group at National Integrated Health Associates

by Robin Fillmore

H

mouth. According to olistic and bioDr. Klinghardt, M.D., logical dentistry Ph.D., an internationare terms used ally renowned health synonymously, notes expert, up to 80 Dr. Mark McClure of percent of chronic the Biological Dental health patients can Group at National trace their health conIntegrated Health dition to the mouth, Associates (NIHA), in requiring a holistic Washington, D.C., near dentist’s intervention.

Chevy Chase. Holistic

McClure and refers to the structure of his colleagues at how the mouth, teeth, NIHA offer fillings, jaw, head and neck are Dr. Mark McClure crown and bridges, intricately connected to the whole body. Biologic refers to using extractions, children’s dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics (gum work) and products and remedies in dentistry that dental implants utilizing a holistic, are the most biologically compatible biologic approach, noting that dental with one’s health and well-being, such treatments should impact the rest of the as herbs, homeopathic and other natural body as little as possible. At NIHA, all remedies (like ozone), non-toxic fillings and ceramic implants (without unhealthy the practitioners are holistic and healthoriented and enjoy helping their patients mercury or titanium). with other health issues, or point them in

In addition, biologic implies that all the right direction to one of the medical dental interventions respect the natural practitioners within the clinic. development and processes of the body.

The dentists at NIHA note that holisMcClure notes, “As an example, instead of tic dentistry is particularly important for just moving a child’s teeth (orthodontics), children because their bodies and brains we may realign jaw bones to accommoare developing. Mercury fillings will never date the teeth, widen the arch to accombe used, and no fluoride will be used as modate the tongue and airway, and assess it can be toxic for many. Each child’s oral the cranial rhythm/lesions to positively development will be guided by the prinaffect the skull and spine development, ciples of functional orthodontics: move using functional orthodontics.” the jaws, correct the face forms and then

Biological dentistry refers to using straighten the teeth. McClure suggests, the best of both conventional and holistic “This approach often prevents future TMJ worlds, but in addition, understanding problems, sleep apnea and other airway the root causes of diseases and dysfuncproblems, as well as enhancing the cranial tions. Clients with serious health issues rhythms, which leads to better brain funcsuch as cancer, autoimmune disease, tions. We work with each child, including brain degeneration, chronic pain, autism those with special needs, to minimize spectrum disorders or fatigue, may have drugs and make the experience as nonsome part of the root cause traced to the

26

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

invasive as possible.”

While there is no current formal training to be a holistic dentist, McClure and his colleagues have taken years of professional classes and training, joined holistic organizations and obtained degrees to lead them on the path to become not only a holistic person, but also a holistic professional.

For McClure, the journey into holistic dentistry started in 1979, involved thousands of hours of courses, involvement in many holistic organizations and an advanced degree in Integrative Medical Dentistry at Capital University of Integrative Medicine (CUIM). After graduating, he served as provost of CUIM for 10 years, working with leaders in the field of integrative medicine. His colleagues at NIHA have similar backgrounds.

NIHA, in operation since 1995, is the largest and oldest integrative medical and dental center on the East Coast—possibly nationally. Spawned from CUIM, the dentists, physicians, naturopaths, health coaches, Chinese medical doctors, chiropractors and others learn and evolve by working together. McClure notes, ”We have been privileged to participate in collaboration with a vast network of integrative medical and dental professionals from around the world—all forging this new American Medicine brand—based on finding and treating the root causes of health problems. We are creating a personal health system that places the patient at the center of the health team.”

American New Medicine (Integrative Medicine) understands that given the right circumstances, the human body is self-correcting, and that professionals don’t heal but the whole human being—body, mind and spirit—is what can truly heal.

Their assessment tools include genomics, functional medicine and energetic medicine, as well as conventional medicine to determine where the problem(s) originate, and then create effective and efficient strategies to obtain the healthy desired outcome.

Dr. McClure and his dental and medical colleagues are available for consultations, gatherings and other ways they can spread their message of health and hope to clients and others. Location: 225 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. For more information, call 202-237-7000 or visit NIHADC.com/Biological-Dentistry/ Biological-Dentistry.html. See ad, page 19.

moneymatters

Romance and Finance

The Importance of Agreeing on Spending Habits

bloom on the budding romance.

Barry Wind and Jeremy A. Pearce are financial advisors in the Washington, D.C., area, specializing in socially responsible investing with SharePower Responsible Investing, Inc. Comments and questions can be sent to BWind@emailsri.com and JeremyAPearce@ emailsri.com.

by Barry Wind and Jeremy A. Pearce

T

he advent of February leads to Saint Valentine’s Day, which may lead couples to thoughts and feelings of romance, which may lead to some of these couples to the decision of moving in together. Unfortunately, unlike Valentine, that perfect someone you move in with might not prove to be a saint.

So before the two you share the same roof, it is a prudent, if not romantic, task to have a good long talk about your finances.

Below are some of the key points you may want to discuss and agree upon:

Investing involves risk including loss of principal. Different types of investments carry varying degrees of risk and clients and prospective clients should be prepared to bear investment and original principal loss. Investing, including socially responsible investing, Large purchases: Buying a house, car or does not guarantee any amount of success. big screen TV can be a major source of These are the opinions of the author and not division with your cutie pie. First, who is necessarily those of Cambridge Investment paying for it and second, who gets it if or Research, are for informational purposes when the relationship sours? Again, unonly, and should not be construed or acted less mutually decided otherwise, a large upon as individualized investment advice. purchase and the subsequent ownerSecurities offered through Cambridge ship is easiest if done separately by one Investment Research, Inc. member member of the pair.

When your romance is ready, sharing FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advithe same living quarters may be the right next step. Discussing and coming to agree- sors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. ment on some key financial decisions with Cambridge and SharePower Responsible your new housemate may just help keep the Investing, Inc. are not affiliated.

Budget: A couple first must identify how much is coming in (and from whom) and how much is going out (and where is it going). If incomes are roughly equal, expenses can be split down the middle, no fuss. If one person earns substantially more than the other, then the percentage of expenses paid by each can correlate to the percentage of income contributed by each. Or to simplify, the person with the lower income can contribute a set amount each month with the higher earner contributing the rest.

How you spend your money also needs to be agreed upon. This is important for non-discretionary items like housing, utilities, groceries, health care and transportation. Of equal importance are discretionary expenses like entertainment, dining out and cable TV. This discussion may go easier if each person has a monthly allowance to spend as they wish.

Prior Assets/Debt: Many people may have accumulated significant assets or debts before becoming part of a couple.

Unless explicitly agreed upon, it generally is best if these previous debts and assets remain separate. natural awakenings

February 2017

27

MAR

healthyaging

Holistic Eye Care Plus: Food Sensitivities

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Natural Vision Care & Addressing Dietary Concerns

The Five Keys For Longevity and Optimal Wellness

by Elizabeth McMillan

R

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

202-505-4835 28

Washington, D.C.

esearch dictates that longevity is heavily reliant on the foods we eat and our outlook on life.

In fact, many studies have shown that changing one’s diet, even in their 70s and 80s, can improve health and decrease disease-risk. Inadequate nutrition has been known to contribute to the development of disease. In addition, researchers have identified that chronic inflammation is not only a risk of all diseases but it also speeds up the process of aging. Therefore, eating a diet that decreases inflammation will improve longevity and promote wellness.

There are certain populations around the world that have larger numbers of people that live to be older than 100. These centenarian populations have been labeled the

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Blue Zones. Research accumulated by the Boston University’s Centenarian Study and by Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones have set forth guidelines on vibrant longevity.

One of the first centenarian lessons is to move naturally as a part of daily living. This does not mean training for a marathon or an Iron Man Challenge. Low intensity movement that is gentle on the knees and hips is ideal. Some examples include walking, yoga, swimming and weight resistance training. This movement could also be a part of daily activities, like gardening or parking further away in a parking lot. The goal is 30 to 60 minutes five times a week.

Another guideline is to stop eating once you are 80 percent full. This encompasses both caloric restriction

and allows time for your stomach to communicate to the brain a sense of fullness. Studies have shown that certain lighting, music and colors tend to promote hunger and lingering at a restaurant longer. Also, the size of plates and glasses have a massive impact on how much we consume, and our dinner plates have only grown in the past 40 years. According to research, most people overestimate caloric intake by 20 percent, therefore, aim to stop eating when you are 80 percent full.

Eat a balanced diet free from processed foods. Most Blue Zone populations limit their intake of meat.

It is common to only consume animal protein for special occasions. A mostly vegetarian lifestyle has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and decrease chronic inflammation. Also, most centenarian cultures have never been introduced to processed foods like soda or salty snacks. Focus on a balanced diet by including four to six vegetable servings daily, limiting intake of meat, with a strong emphasis on beans and nuts. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine concluded that those who ate one ounce of nuts daily lived longer, therefore, they are considered a longevity food.

As with the Mediterranean lifestyle, numerous studies have concluded that a glass of wine, in moderation, promotes longevity. Centenarian cultures similarly consume a small serving dry wine daily. Studies show that one or two servings of wine daily will provide health benefits, however over-consumption negates all benefits.

Finally, find purpose and live in the moment by reducing stress and engaging in the community. Making loved ones and the community priority provides a sense of purpose. This also encourages a feeling of belonging and happiness. Engaging in these five lessons from centenarian populations can promote longevity and a vibrant lifestyle into our golden years.

Elizabeth McMillan is a board-certified clinical nutritionist at Rose Wellness, in Oakton, VA. For more information, call 571-529-6699 or visit RoseWellness. com. See ad, page 24. natural awakenings

February 2017

29

MAR

healthyfood

The Best Diet

Food Sensitivities Plus: Holistic Eye Care

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Addressing Dietary Concerns & Natural Vision Care

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

202-505-4835 30

Washington, D.C.

Choosing Micronutrient-Dense Foods

by Isabel Sharkar

D

iets such as low-carb, low-fat, ketogenic, paleo, vegetarian, vegan, 80-10-10, Zone diet, South Beach diet, Atkins diet and Mediterranean, to name a few, are constantly popping up, making it difficult to choose which is best for each person. A diet that is free from processed foods and rich in wholesome organic vegetables, fruits and high quality protein will never go out of style. Narrowing down your choices doesn’t have to be so hard when you are aware of a few important facts.

Contrary to popular belief, caloriesin does not equal calories-out. This false theory has led many to start diets that severely restrict calories. Surely you’ve tried eating fewer calories only to be left feeling more hungry and cranky, because calorie restrictions aren’t an effective weight loss strategy. If you are not consuming enough calories, the brain increases hunger and decreases metabolic weight, causing you to burn less calories. In the long run, calorie restriction causes weight-gain, because it is not sustainable. Research shows that 95 percent of people who diet regain all the weight in two years and in three years, 41 percent gain more weight than when they began the diet.

The most important choice you have to make is choosing high-quality organic food to put into your body. All food is information and poor-quality, processedfood impacts your hormones. Many processed foods are specifically manufactured to highly stimulate the pleasure center in your brain in an unnaturally intense way. This causes you to crave and consume the food more, increasing the reward threshold of your brain.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Over time, more of this craved food is required to feel the same amount of pleasure. This reward system in your brain influences the appetite regulation center that causes you to want more of the food you crave. As a result, you increase your calorie intake and put on more body fat. Highly rewarding food is a major culprit to the obesity epidemic.

An enormously high percentage of people in the Western world, that eat Westernized diets, tend to be deficient in micronutrients—vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. In addition to getting calories from the macronutrients—proteins, carbs and fats—the body also needs calories from the micronutrients. When you have a micronutrient deficiency, the brain does the same thing as if you are on a high-calorie, restrictive diet.

It’s not about the calories you consume but the micronutrient density of the food. When your body feels like it’s in starvation mode, it will drive you to consume more calories. Increasing your intake of food that is micronutrientdeficient will cause even more weight gain and calorie consumption.

The best diet is one that is sustainable. Avoid suffering from extreme starvation and calorie-restrictive diets.

Instead, make lifestyle changes that leave you feeling good and develop new habits that you love.

Isabel Sharkar, ND, is a licensed naturopathic physician and co-owner of Indigo Integrative Health Clinic, in Georgetown. For more information, call 202-298-9131 or visit Indigo HealthClinic.com. See ad, page 2.

wisewords

Engaging Your Spiritual Warrior

by Carol Richardson

A

s we launch into 2017, we have quite a year ahead, both spiritually and politically speaking.

Those of us who live in the U.S. seem to feel very divided over our current political shift. The world is watching, with perhaps a similar divide. As souls living on this earth plane, we must ask: what is our responsibility at this time, in the life of humanity as a whole?

First, from a higher spiritual perspective, we look at this new year 2017 together, not just as individuals, but also seeking the greater good for our life together, as well as seeking the spiritual evolution of us all. Second, rather than asking “What is in this new year for me?” instead, we might ask, “What can I do this year to impart wellbeing (or a blessing) to others?”

The guidance I am hearing, and would like to share with you, is a blessing shared with me at the close of 2016 from a client and can impart well-being to us all. It is:

“This is the lifetime to shift from being a physical warrior to being a spiritual warrior. A spiritual warrior does not ask, ‘Where is the enemy outside of myself?’ Rather, a spiritual warrior asks, ‘Where is the enemy within?’ Nor does a spiritual warrior seek to attack that which is outside oneself, but rather engages the struggle between goodness and evil within oneself. A spiritual warrior therefore asks, ‘What is block-

ing the peace within myself that is preventing me from bringing peace to the world?’ The task of a spiritual warrior is to find the peace within herself or himself so that she or he may bring peace to the world.”

A spiritual warrior asks, ‘What is blocking the peace within myself that is preventing me from bringing peace to the world?’

If we will all live according to this guidance throughout this year, the world will only get better and better. We will all evolve and find true and lasting inner peace. When we find that inner peace, we will be able to share it with each other, no matter what our outer circumstances may be.

Here’s to making time this year to make significant progress in finding, keeping and sharing that inner peace.

Rev. Carol Richardson, M.Div, M.P.H, is a Life Coach, Stress Reduction Specialist and Healer. You can reach her at 240-669-9592 or 269-365-8939 or visit HighestHighestHarmony.Guru or WashingtonInstituteOfNaturalMedicine .com/w/Home. See ad, page 29.

natural awakenings

February 2017

31

leadingedge

Veterans with PTSD Love Qi

by Jeff Primack

T

hroughout the country, Qi Revolution has empowered thousands of people to practice qigong under one roof, which forms a massive group energy field. It accelerates everyone’s ability to feel qi and progress, and is particularly healing for veterans. Open to the public, all are invited to experience Qi Revolution and join expert healers, doctors and even teenagers, with smiles and lighter spirits at this life-changing event. Qi Revolution will be held at the Baltimore Convention Center, April 7 to 9.

Energy is tangible in the hands, like a magnetic field, pulsing with life.

Qigong stops mental thinking immediately and mind becomes energy-aware.

Veterans who are missing an arm practice qigong and feel the other arm’s qi.

Bullets that have passed through bone create lifetimes of real pain, yet qigong allows people to eliminate pain in a matter of minutes with holding postures.

While battlefield memories are not erased, their grip on muscles, jaw and mind is lessened long enough for 32

Washington, D.C.

veterans to realize they have control over their mind and body through their breath. For example, the technique “9-Breath Method” oxygenates to the core, creating a wave of peace that shuts down over-thinking.

Breath training is the first thing vets and active soldiers can choose to learn.

A revered qigong master was imprisoned by the Chinese government for years, yet he practiced qigong and was strengthened by qi in the air. Those who know him see his incredible energy, even in his mid-80s, which further reveals qigong’s potential use in military training and reintegration of soldiers back into society.

According to Alina Mayo, M.D., of the Veterans Affairs Bay Pines Inpatient Unit, in Florida, “Qigong is a very positive natural modality we are proud to offer for our men and women who have served our country.” She notes that qigong with senior instructor, Todd Nichols, has been highly successful.

When vets practice qigong breathing with Nichols in a group, trust issues,

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

whether he is a vet or not, becomes less important. Old mind patterns are temporarily bypassed as the feeling of qi is strong enough to give a natural high.

Many vets report this has been invaluable to replace harmful addictions.

Nichols is a brave teacher sharing “Breath Empowerment” and has shared this with more than 1,000 veterans.

Sometimes in lock-down facilities, where chairs are held down with bags of sand, it can be challenging to lead qigong breathing. Frequent outbursts and flickering florescent lights compound the difficulties of teaching in the VA buildings and veterans are guarded and apprehensive. Nichols draws them in and challenges them to take huge breaths, swallow it and hold it in their belly. A crammed room becomes momentarily silent, smiles and then scattered giggles erupt. All it takes is participation and the vibration is assured.

Nichols is my student but he now trains me and all our top instructors annually, passing on his wisdom about teaching veterans. He notes that “without the breathing techniques, many veterans would give up.” The speed at which the qi is physically felt spurs further interest. Although teaching qigong at the VA was not respected in the beginning, it now has grown from a single class to two classes each week.

The doctors, nurses and social workers respect Nichols’ group. He has now been teaching at the VA, undisturbed, for three years.

Qigong training is helpful for every person, not just veterans. The Qi Revolution is offered at a low price, because people (now more than ever) require this knowledge to prosper. Additionally, the training is free for all military, firefighters and police officers.

Jeff Primack has practiced qigong for 20 years and trained more than 50,000 people at Qi Revolution seminars across the United States. 200 Veterans attended free last year and their profound transformation with Qigong inspired this article.

Cost: $149 for three days of training, with fire, police and military free. For more information, call 800-298-8970 or visit QiRevolution.com. See ad, page 3.

environmentalspotlight

2017 Environmental Film Festival 25 Years of Films for the Planet

by Helen Strong

T

he Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital, the largest and longest-running festival of its kind in the U.S. and the largest film festival, in Washington, D.C., will commemorate its 25th anniversary this spring. Marking a quarter-century of celebrating and defending Earth through the power of film, the 2017 Festival, March 14 through 26, will focus its lens on a planet in transition, exploring what has happened over the past 25 years and what lies ahead.

The festival showcases the wonders of the natural world and seeks to advance understanding of the environment and inspire wise stewardship of the planet. Selected to provide fresh perspectives on our world, films will travel the globe, illuminating vital environmental issues and challenges, including the impact of climate change, endangered wildlife, food and agriculture, oceans and freshwater, energy and resources and the built environment.

In partnership with leading museums, embassies, universities and theaters, the festival will present 150plus films—documentaries, narratives and animations, as well as shorts and experimental works—at some 50 venues across the city and in nearby Maryland and Virginia.

Screenings will be followed by discussions with filmmakers and environmental experts and many are free. The festival schedule will be available in February on the festival website, DCEFF.org.

The festival will kick off on opening night, March 14, with the Washington, D.C. premiere of Water & Power: A California Heist, which had its world premiere at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Recognizing that water is the new oil and that it is growing more valuable as it becomes less accessible, this film exposes the alarming exploits of California’s most notorious water barons, who profit from the state’s resources while everyday citizens and small farmers endure

debilitating water crises.

Closing night, March 26, will be a double celebration­—the festival finale with the screening of Oscar-nominated French filmmaker Jacques Perrin’s new film, Seasons (Les Saisons), winner of the Festival’s Polly Krakora Award for Artistry in Film. Capturing the lush green forests and megafauna that emerged across Europe following the last ice age, Seasons narrates the adventures of countless species of wildlife through the eyes of the animals, now under threat from climate change and human civilization. Perrin will be at the screening to receive the award and discuss his film.

The Festival’s Eric Moe Award for the Best Short on Sustainability will be presented on March 20 to director Craig Norris at the screening of his film, Kokota: The Islet of Hope. The film presents Mbarouk Mussa Omar’s quest to help the East African island of Kokota, which is severely threatened by climate change and deforestation. It tells the inspiring story of unlikely, but resilient, heroes who have managed to innovatively adapt to a warming climate while reforesting their island.

Another festival highlight will be the U.S. premiere of Colombia: Magia Salvaje (Colombia: Wild Magic), exploring the diverse habitats—from majestic mountain ranges to virgin jungles—and extraordinary creatures, from jaguars to hammerhead sharks, that make Colombia one of the most spectacular and biologically diverse countries on Earth.

The festival will also screen Oscar-winning actor, environmental activist and United Nations Messenger of Peace Leonardo DiCaprio’s new film, Before the Flood, following his travels to five continents and the Arctic to witness climate change firsthand. He speaks to scientists, world leaders, activists and local residents to gain a deeper understanding of this complex issue and investigates concrete solutions to the most pressing environmental challenge of our time.

Join the festival to be informed and amazed by our world. For more information, visit DCEFF.org or contact Helen Strong at 202-342-2564 or Helen@DCEFF.org. See ad, page 4.

natural awakenings

February 2017

33

calendarofevents

Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@ PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines.

Writing Life – 10am-3:30pm. Join gifted writer Irene Borger to get to the heart of your personal story. If there is any constancy to life, it’s the thousands of stories and memories, as well as the unknown. Cultivating ease with not knowing what will happen is precisely what’s needed to write with feeling and truth. Beginners and seasoned writers welcome. $45 (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Essential Oils 101 – 6:30-9:30pm. A free introduction. Essential oils for massage therapy monthly series continues the first Wednesday of each month.

Feb 1 focuses on “Your Animals.” 3 CEUs. $65.

Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Info: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Moving Forward: Where Do We Go From Here?

– 6:30-8:30pm. Join Smith Center co-founder Shanti Norris in a facilitated discussion to ease anxieties in the current political climate. The evening will end in an exercise designed to help us move forward with a greater sense of peace and purpose. Free. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Healing Touch Level 1 – 8:30am-6pm. Through Feb 5. The Healing Touch International (HTI) Healing Touch Certificate Program is a multi-level course of study in energy-based therapy that moves from beginning to advanced practitioner and is complementary to heath care. 18 CEUs. $365. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-6867046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Connection Practice Level 2 – 9:30am-6:30pm.

Come learn advanced skills for a more satisfying life. 9 CEUs. $199. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@ PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Stress, Hormones and Health – 9:30-10:30am.

Learn how to lose that belly fat and how eating less may actually cause weight gain. Learn why you may be hitting a wall. Call for suite number and RSVP as space is very limited. Dr Serena Satcher at Regenasyst Wellness, 10560 Main St, Fairfax, VA. RSVP: 703454-9326x0. Info: Info@TreatYourselfToHealth.com.

Touch Of Massage – 10am-5pm. One-day introduction to Swedish Massage Techniques. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202686-7046 or Info@MTI.org or PMTI.org.

Studying the Enneagram: Part 2 – 1-4pm. Join us for a continuation of the January Enneagram session to deepen your knowledge and discover your enneagram personality type. Participation in Part 1 is required to attend. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-4838600 or SmithCenter.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Biodynamic Cranialsacral Therapy – 9am-6pm.

Through Feb 9. Series Continues with Part 8. 32 CEUs. $695. Info: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI. org or PMTI.org.

Awareness Through Movement – 6:15-7:30pm.

34

Washington, D.C.

This class offers an innovative approach to movement and health that is beneficial for anyone experiencing fatigue, pain or restriction of movement due to injury, surgery or treatment. $10 (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – 6-9pm.

Through Feb 12. This program is perfect for the avid yoga student who wants to become a yoga teacher or anyone that wants to deepen their personal practice.

Scholarships available. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Register: 301986-1090 or Roxanne@TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

MUIH Webinar: Careers in Herbal Medicine – 7-8pm. This webinar will introduce you to the various careers available for herbalists now and into the future. You’ll hear about the exciting work of some of our alumni as well as the industry and consumer trends that are fueling the need for experts. Free. Maryland University of Integrative Health, Online. Info: Events@MUIH.edu.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Race and the Healing Process – 5:30-8:30pm.

Through Feb 11. Race is our country’s greatest wound. Learn about the healing process and step into inspired action. $250. Hosted by Milagros Phillips, author of 8 Essentials to a Race Conversation and 11 Reasons to Become Race Literate. The Sorrento, 2233 18th St, NW. Register: EventBrite. com/e/Race-and-the-Healing-Process-Tickets30063471653?aff=erelexpmlt. Info: 301-332-5782.

Friday Night Candlelight Yoga – 8-9:30pm.

Through gently energetic and continuous flow we release tension and balance energy, while soft candlelight sets an ambiance to calm the mind and explore inner depths. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-9861090 or TheMindfulnessCenter@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Healing Touch Level 3- 8:30am-6pm. Through Feb 12. The Healing Touch International (HTI) Healing Touch Certificate Program is a multi-level course of study in energy-based therapy that moves from beginning to advanced practitioner and is complementary to heath care. 17.5 CEUs. $395. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-6867046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Introduction to CranioSacral Biodynamics – 10am-5:30pm. Through Feb 12. With instructor Mike Duggan. Biodynamic CranioSacral Therapy is a bodywork modality that works with the central nervous system to support its proper functioning and clear those places in the body that have gotten overwhelmed or restricted. By releasing these restrictions and mitigating overwhelmed areas, we cultivate greater vitality, overall health and wellbeing. 12 CEUs. $299. Potomac Massage Training

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

specialevent

An Afternoon of Qigong Taught by Shakta Khalsa.

Come and learn qigong, an ancient system of movement and breath, doable by everyone, to calm and empower yourself.

Saturday, February 11 • 2-3:30pm $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

Raj Yoga Center, 22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, 2nd Floor, Sterling, VA. Register: RajYoga.org. Info: Info@RajYoga.org.

Couples Massage Class – 2-5pm. Learn to apply specific strokes and how to adjust your body and your pressure so your body doesn’t hurt after giving a massage. Relax, heal and rejuvenate. Potomac Massage Training Institute, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Open Fireside Chat Awakening Circle – 7:309:30pm. Co-founders of the DC Awakening Collective, Cullen Kowalski and Bennett Crawford would like to share with you direct experiences with meditation in the context of full-time embodied awakening, open heart mutuality, deep healing and often ignored shadow work. $5 at door. Samsara House 2023, 36 R St, NW, Bloomingdale.

RSVP: Wakeup@SamsaraHouse.org. Info: SamsaraHouse.org or Bit.ly/OpenFiresideAyurvedic.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Kids Yoga Foundation – 11:30am-12:30pm. Bring the family. You take a hot Pilates class while your child is taking a yoga class with Ms. Lashone. Bikram Yoga Riverdale Park, 6202 Rhode Island Ave, Ste 200, Riverdale Park, MD. Register: BikramYogaRiverIC. com. Info: Facebook.com/BikramYogaRiverdale.

Couples Massage Class – 2-5pm. See Feb 11 for details. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Discover Your Intuition Part 1 – 2-4pm. This series of workshops helps you discover how to awaken your innate psychic abilities. Join us on a journey into the deepest parts of you where we will tap into your sixth sense. $75. Positive Lite Insights, 8027 Leesburg Pike, Ste 304, Vienna, VA. Register: PositiveLiteInsights.com.

Dreaming and Scheming: Getting Creative with Goal Setting – 3:30-5pm. Life coach and cancer survivor Jenn McRobbie will lead you in an interactive workshop on the art of setting

will learn to teach traditional hatha poses, and partner poses, that you can use in your yoga classroom. This Ashtanga teen series will give you the foundation you need to create a fun and calming class. $215. YoKid... stretch your limits at Yoga District Columbia Heights, 3315 11th St, NW. Register: YoKid.org.

goals, releasing expectations and welcoming more focus and joy into your life. Free. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

DC Young Adult Cancer Meet Up and Support Group – 5-6:30pm. Meet other young adult cancer survivors in a monthly facilitated group session.

This gathering is a collaborative initiative of local hospitals, health organizations and cancer support groups. A healthy meal is provided. Free. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Conscious Parenting Part 1 – 2-4pm. A series of classes focused on conscious parenting. These workshops offer parents the opportunity to explore how to shift from the traditional parenting paradigm to foster presence, awareness and connections with their children. $75. Positive Lite Insights, 8027 Leesburg Pike, Ste 304, Vienna, VA. Register: PositiveLiteInsights.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Couples Massage Class – 2-5pm. See Feb 11 for details. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@ PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Pathways To Intimacy – 6-9pm. Through Feb 19. A men’s workshop. Potomac Massage Training Institute, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Movie: Wasteland – 6:30-9pm. In Rio De Janeiro, Jardim Gramacho, the worlds’ largest landfill, Artist Vik Muniz, engages with workers and brings self-esteem and money to the community. Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church, Chalice House, 9601 Cedar Ln, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-717-4204.

Weekend Meditation Retreat (Advanced Meditation Seminar M200 - 8hrs) – 6:30-9:30pm.

Through Feb 18. Be guided deep into the realms of personal awareness and integration. As the practitioner, learn to deepen your practice and learn to guide others to do the same. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulness Center@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Cold and Flu: Staying Healthy with Natural Remedies – 1-3pm. We will study essential oils, herbal remedies and qigong for energy building practice. $20. Neck, Back & Beyond Healing Arts, 10560 Main St, Ste 204, Fairfax, VA. Register: NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com. Info: 703-865-5690.

Essential Mindfulness for Daily Living Workshop – 1-4pm. Many of us are experiencing a great deal of stress and adversity these days because of the never-ending demands and pressures of everyday life. This workshop could be for you. $45 pre-registered or $55 at the door. East Meets West Yoga Center, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Register: EastMeetsWestCenter.com. Info: Wakeup@SamsaraHouse.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Discover Empowered Dreaming – 2-4pm. In these classes, we focus on how to enhance our dream work. We will explore topics such as lucid dreaming, dream re-entry, parallel realities, spirit communication, precognitive dreams and much more. $75.

Positive Lite Insights, 8027 Leesburg Pike, Ste 304, Vienna, VA. Register: PositiveLiteInsights.com.

Couples Massage Class – 2-5pm. See Feb 11 for details. Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Movie Night: Globalized Soul: Stories from the Tipping Point to a New World – 7pm. This month’s film celebrates the colorful diversity of the spirit of the Earth and the common heart we share. Join us to view this film that highlights compassion, collective love and non-violence. $5 donation.

Neck, Back & Beyond Healing Arts, 10560 Main St, Ste 204, Fairfax, VA. Register: NeckBackAnd Beyond@gmail.com. Info: 703-865-5690.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Yoga Philosophy for Kids – 5:30-9pm. A yoga philosophy workshop that includes yoga sutras, chakras, meditation, Yoga Nidra and guided relaxation for kids. Learn fundamental yoga philosophy and how it pertains to children. $115. YoKid...stretch your limits at Yoga District. Register: YoKid.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Costa Rica Yoga and Meditation Retreat – Through March 4. At Pura Vida Retreat and Spa in Costa Rica, find inner tranquility through daily yoga and meditation practices. Limited space, register today to hold your space. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulness Center@gmail.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Laughter Yoga – 7-8pm. Please join us for a playful and fun practice that has been proven to reduce stress and strengthen the immune system. The session ends with a silent meditation. Free. Arlington Central Library auditorium, 1015 N Quincy St, Arlington, VA. Info: ArlingtonLaughterYoga@yahoo.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 MUIH Webinar: Workplace Wellness: Developing a Culture of Health – 7-8pm. If you are interested in Public Health, Health Education, Community Health or Health Promotion, please join us to get all of your questions answered in this webinar.

Free. Maryland University of Integrative Health, Online. Info: Events@MUIH.edu.

savethedate The Intelligent Body Reversing Chronic Fatigue and Pain from the Inside-Out

Success with Seeds and Seed Starting Class and Workshop – 10am-4pm. Take the mystery out of seeds and seed starting. Fun and informative. Plant and take home your own professional designed custom seed starting system.

Prior Unity Garden at Green Comfort School of Herbal Medicine. Info: Green Comfort School of Herbal Medicine 540-937-4283 or GreenComfortHerbSchool.com or Prior Unity Garden at 703-281-7743 or PriorUnityGarden.com/ SeedStartSuccess.htm.

Psychologist Kyle Davies explains the origins of chronic symptoms and outlines the road to recovery. In this two-day, experiential workshop, Davies will share his successful, proven Energy-Flow Coaching model of illness and recovery that has helped hundreds of sufferers achieve optimal health and wellness.

Teaching K-5th Grade Yoga in Schools – 10am-5pm. Our practical and informative training will provide you with what you need to teach traditional and non-traditional poses and teach you age appropriate language and methods for creating a fun, yet calming environment for kids. $215. YoKid...stretch your limits at Yoga District Columbia Heights, 3315 11th St, NW. Register: YoKid.org.

Location to be provided.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Teaching 6th-12th Grade Yoga in Schools – 10am5pm. Inspired by the Ashtanga primary series, you

Saturday, April 1 • 10am-5pm Sunday, April 2 • 10am-5pm Info: KyleDavies.net/ IntelligentBodyWorkshop/.

People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude. ~John C. Maxwell

natural awakenings

February 2017

35

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.

one’s inner life, understanding the causes of emotional stress and realizing the possibility of inner freedom. We explore key Buddhist teachings and how they can be helpful in navigating life’s inevitable challenges. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown.

Info: Living-Mindfully.org

thursday

sunday

tuesday

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.

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.

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 Yoga – 10:15-11:30am. See Mon for details. $10/class or $25/month (suggested donation).

Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Chair Yoga – 12-1pm. You are invited to relax deeply as we move through a series of gentle seated and supported poses that promote self-care. $10/class or $25/month (suggested donation).

Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Yoga, Level 1 – 11am. Work slowly and deeply with classic poses, with an emphasis on healthy alignment. Beginner or advanced come enjoy the benefits of increased flexibility and strength. Appropriate for all levels. $20 (drop-in). The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Register: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulness Center@gmail.com.

Makeup and Hair Series – 2:30-4:30pm. 4th Sun. With Eneshal Miller, Creator. The Five Senses Session Understanding What You Can’t See workshop improv creatives and professionals. Product planning, formulation, development and exhibitions.

The information session is free. Your Whole Body Beauty and Nutritional Wellness, 8646 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 240-224-1111.

Cancer Support Group – 6-7:30pm. 2nd and 4th Sun. This support group provides participants with the opportunity to explore their experience with cancer in a safe group setting with a trained social worker and to connect with others who are facing a similar challenge.

Please RSVP by phone prior to your first visit. Free.

Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Mindfulness in Recovery – 6:30-8pm. This group is open to new meditators and seasoned practitioners alike with a common interest in the intersection of Buddhist teachings and 12 Step recovery.

All 12 Steppers are welcome and we ask that participants have at least 90 days of continuous recovery and a working relationship with a home 12 Step recovery group be established before attending your first meeting. This group is not a replacement for our individual 12 Step programs. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org

monday

Gentle Yoga – 6-7:15pm. See Mon for details. $10/class or $25/month (suggested donation).

Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

wednesday 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.

Outside the Lines: A Creative Art Studio – 10:30am-12:30pm. 1st and 3rd Wed. Facilitators will help reclaim art-making as a healing tool through guided creative projects. $10/session (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Register: 202-483-8600.

Info: SmithCenter.org/Calendar.

Mindfulness Meditation – 7-8pm. 2nd and 4th Wed. $15 (donation accepted). Potomac Massage Training Institute PMTI, 8380 Colesville Rd, Ste 600, Silver Spring, MD. Register: 202-686-7046 or Info@PMTI.org or PMTI.org.

Teen Sanga – 7:30-9pm. 2nd and 4th Wed. The teen sangha provides a framework for exploring

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: Living-Mindfully.org.

Gentle Yoga – 10:30-11:45am. Gentle yoga classes to help reduce stress and balance the mind, body and spirit. All experience levels welcome. No class February 20. $10/class or $25/ month (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

36

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Unique Batik: Paint Your Own T-Shirt – 3-4pm.

1st, 2nd and 3rd Thurs. Batik is a popular textile art from Indonesia that centers the mind and liberates the heart through creativity. In this three-part series, you will make a T-shirt using a simple batik painting process. Please plan to attend all three sessions. $25(suggested donation) and includes T-shirt. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Register: 202-483-8600 and SmithCenter.org.

friday 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.

Move, Dance, Create – 11am-12:15pm. Stretch your creative capacity, feel good and connect with fellow participants. Featuring a variety of dance styles, the class is a well-paced and refreshing experience for all. $10/session or $25/month (suggested donation).

Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Meditation Circle and Vegetarian Potluck – 6 pm. Guided meditation with music begins at 7:30. $10 (suggested donation). 12803 Twinbrook Pkwy, Ste 204, Rockville. Register: Contact Carol “Anandi” 269-365-8939.

saturday Refuge Recovery – 6:30-8pm. Refuge Recovery is a mindfulness-based recovery program and community that utilizes Buddhist philosophy as the foundation of the recovery process. Based on the Four Noble Truths and Eight-fold Path, emphasis is placed on both knowledge and empathy as a means for overcoming addiction and its causes. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org.

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 NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com Neck Back & Beyond in Fairfax, VA, offers chiropractic and naturopathic care, acupuncture, massage, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), reflexology, lymphatic drainage and more. See ad, page 11. .

ARCHITECT

CANCER SUPPORT NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES

5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 • NIHADC.com

If you are diagnosed with cancer, there are supportive treatments which may enhance the body’s ability to fight cancer and help the traditional cancer treatments work more effectively.

Integrative, holistic medicine combines traditional and adjunctive complementary treatments to restore the patient to a better state of health and improve the quality of life. Whereas traditional medicine will focus on treating the tumor, the holistic approach is to focus on the patient and outcome. See ad, page 19.

HELICON WORKS ARCHITECTS

7108 Holly Ave, Takoma Park, MD 301-404-5578 • Bill@HeliconWorks.com HeliconWorksArchitects.com Helicon Works Architects is a green architecture and natural building collaborative in the D.C. metro area. We create healthy and ecological homes for our clients. See ad, page 40. e

AROMATHERAPY

MOTHER NATURE’S STORE 703-851-0087 Laina_Poulakos@hotmail.com MothersNatureStore.com

C e r t i f i e d a r o m at h e r ap i s t and herbalist offering lifestyle consultations and handmade products, including soaps, balms and beard oils. Reach a better state of body and mind.

See ad, page 11.

CANNABIS PRODUCTS CBD REVOLUTION US

202-730-9443 CBDRevolutionUS@gmail.com CBDRevolutionUS.com We increase public awareness of hemp health/CBD that enables the mind and body to work at their optimal state thereby promoting ultimate health, wellness and longevity.

We are an innovative community, passionate about empowering individuals to balance their health and wealth while becoming leaders in the cannabis movement. We spread the truth about the benefits of an amazing plant in our modern culture, teaching people how to get healthy without the high. See ad, page 13.

CATERING GREENFARE

408 Elden St., Herdon, VA 703-689-0506 GreenFare.com GreenFare is an innovative community cafe and learning center that serves organic, whole plant food in concert with medical professionals, environmentalists, and animal welfare advocates who recognize that this optimal diet can positively transform our world. Open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.

CHIROPRACTOR NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER DR. ALLAN TOMSON, DC

10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 • NeckBackAndBeyond.com NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com Dr. Allan Tomson, DC, director of Neck Back & Beyond Healing Arts in Fairfax, VA with a satellite office in Manassas, VA. He is not your ordinary chiropractor with skills and experience in functional medicine, visceral manipulation, cranial sacral therapy and Cayce protocols. See ad, page 11.

SHAANS CHIROPRACTIC AND SPORTS REHAB CLINIC

2946 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Ste 2-A, Falls Church, VA • 703-237-2161 Contact@ShahverdiChiropractic.com ShahverdiChiropractic.com Chiropractic preventive care, naturally. See ad, page 18.

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 13.

natural awakenings

February 2017

37

DR. VISHAL VERMA, DC, CCSP Rose Wellness Center 571-529-6699 RoseWellness.com

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY GOLDEN HEALTH PHARMACY

Dr. Verma specializes in functional ch i ropr a c t i c c are for p ai n management and active restoration of the body. He treating root causes using gentle chiropractic, physical therapy, cold laser therapy and rehabilitation for fast effective results. Dr. Verma treats back, neck, spine and joint pain, sciatica, sports injuries, fibromyalgia, and various other chronic and acute pain conditions. See ad, page 24.

CLEANING MAID BRIGADE CAPITAL REGION

4813-A Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 800-515-6243 Marketing@Maid-Brigade.com MaidBrigade.com

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 25.

COACHING THE COME ALIVE PROJECT

703-217-2746 Bob@TheComeAliveProject.com TheComeAliveProject.com We provide information about health, fitness and positive personal energy for active seniors.

46950 Community Plaza, Ste 112, Sterling, VA 703-430-8883 ElsaLam@GoldenHealthPharmacy GoldenHealthPharmacy.com Prescriptions with personal attention (we accept all insurance). Compounding pharmacy for special medications and your pet’s special needs. Integrating pharmacy services with nutritional support. Juice Bar, holistic health and wellness workshops, cooking classes for disease management and an infrared sauna with acoustic sound therapy. See ad, page 24.

DENTISTRY, HOLISTIC

Mastermind Stars: Mindfulness and Movement Programs for students, teachers and families. See ad, page 29.

HEALTHY PETS WHOLE PET CENTRAL

Info@WholePetCentral.com WholePetCentral.com

The professional health team at NIHA is comprised of holistic medical physicians, biological dentists, naturopaths, a chiropractor and health professionals highly skilled in acupuncture, nutrition and other healing therapies. See ad, page 19.

We are your one-stop destination for all things natural regarding your pet’s nutritional and grooming needs. Shop online or visit one of our stores locations in Rockville, MD, Herndon, VA or Ashburn, VA. See ad, page 10.

TERRY VICTOR, DDS THE DC DENTIST

509 11th St, SE, DC 202-544-3626 Staff@TheDCDentist.com TheDCDentist.com Dr. Victor’s practice believes patients’ needs are primary.

Holistic dentistry integrates dental health with your overall health.

The DC Dentist—holistic, biological and eco-friendly. See ad, page 23.

10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com

Washington, D.C.

Rev Carol Anandi Richardson M.Div., MPH Body-Mind-Spirit Coach, Mystic Healer, Speaker, Author 12803 Twinbrook Pkwy, Ste 204, Rockville, MD • 269-365-8939 Carol.Dodson.Richardson@gmail.com HighestHarmony.Guru

5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 • NIHADC.com

NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

38

HIGHEST HARMONY HEALING AND COACHING

NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

An effective method for cleansing the colon and large intestine. It helps to renew and cleanse the cells, purify the blood and give life to the digestive system. Accumulation of toxic waste materials in the body, also known as autointoxication, is the root cause of many diseases. CHT allows the body to get rid of these toxins, and is a necessary part of any type of detox program or cleanse. See ad, page 11.

HARMONY LIFE COACHING

FAT REDUCTION THERAPY ZERONA FAT REDUCTION

2946 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Ste 2-A, Falls Church, VA • 703-237-2161 Contact@ShahverdiChiropractic.com ShahverdiChiropractic.com

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Effective, non-invasive, fat reduction therapy. See ad, page 18.

HERBS MOTHER NATURE’S STORE 703-851-0087 Laina_Poulakos@hotmail.com MothersNatureStore.com

Certified aromatherapist and herbalist offering lifestyle consultations and handmade products, including soaps, balms and beard oils. Reach a better state of body and mind. See ad, page 11.

HOLISTIC NUTRITION ELIZABETH MCMILLAN, MS, CNS Rose Wellness Center 571-529-6699 RoseWellness.com

Elizabeth McMillan is a board certified clinical nutritionist specializing in functional nutrition. She believes in finding the root cause of aliments and creating a personalized dietary plan to restore optimal wellness. Elizabeth specializes in diabetes, food sensitivities, gastrointestinal health, autoimmunity and metabolic syndrome issues. Call today to see how she can help. See ad, page 24.

HOLISTIC PARENTING HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK ARLINGTON/ALEXANDRIA CHAPTER Bit.ly/HMN-MetroDC

Supportive communities for parents following natural lifestyles with six local D.C.area chapters, Metro D.C. area chapters in Arlington/Alexandria, Burke/ Springfield, Northern Virginia/Fairfax, Loudoun in Virginia and in Anne Arundel County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

MINDFUL HEALTHY LIFE

571-358-8645 Jessica@MindfulHealthyLife.com MindfulHealthyLife.com Online lifestyle magazine for D. C . - are a n atu r a l minded families. Event calendar, resource directory, blog. News, events, giveaways, profiles, tips for holistic healthy living and mindful parenting.

HOLISTIC PEDIATRIC CARE NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES 5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 • NIHADC.com

Holistic pediatric and young adult care combines the healing power of traditional Western medicine with safe, complementary healing therapies. This approach addresses the whole child, not just the symptoms that brought you to the doctor, and encourages the immune system to heal naturally.

See ad, page 19.

HOLISTIC PRIMARY CARE NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES 5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 • NIHADC.com

Holistic primary care is an integrative approach that treats the whole person: mind/body and spirit. A primary care provider coordinates all of the health care a patient receives. This total patient care considers the physical and emotional needs of the person and how health issues may be affecting those needs. Whether you are coming in for an annual check-up or managing a chronic disease, we focus on the whole person, not just your disease or symptoms. We consider lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management and put together a treatment plan to help you attain an optimum level of wellness. See ad, page 19.

INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC

HOME IMPROVEMENT AMICUS GREEN BUILDING CENTER 4080A Howard Ave, Kensington, MD 301-571-8590 • Info@AmicusGreen.com AmicusGreen.com

A design center and home improvement store that creates fresh spaces–fresh designs, fresh air and water–to foster better buildings. See ad, page 31. parenting.

HOMEOPATHY

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 2.

NATIONAL INTEGRATED HEALTH ASSOCIATES

5225 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 402, NW 202-237-7000 NIHADC.com

MICHAEL LISS

Rose Wellness Center 571-529-6699 • RoseWellness.com Michael Liss is a Doctor of Classical Homeopathy and an integrative health practitioner. He specializes in using homeopathy to help you find relief from various emotional and physical health problems including addictions, s u b s t a n c e a b u s e , a n x i e t y, depression, allergies, asthma, childhood ailments, migraines, hair and skin disorders, immune deficiencies and sinus disorders.

See ad, page 24.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE SULTANA AFROOZ, DO

Rose Wellness Center 2944 Hunter Mill Rd, Ste 101, Oakton, VA 571-529-6699 Info@RoseWellness.com RoseWellness.com Dr. Sultana Afrooz specializes in diagnosing and treating patients who have been chronically ill from effects of tick-borne infection, mold toxicity and environmental toxicity. See ad, page 24.

SUSHMA HIRANI, MD

The professional health team at NIHA is comprised of holistic medical physicians, biological dentists, naturopaths, a chiropractor and health professionals highly skilled in acupuncture, nutrition and other healing therapies. See ad, page 19.

ROSE WELLNESS CENTER

2944 Hunter Mill Rd, Ste 101, Oakton, VA 571-529-6699 Info@RoseWellness.com RoseWellness.com Suffering from chronic pain, fatigue, allergies, stress? Whatever your health challenges, Rose Wellness Center can help you get on the path to real wellness. We help identify hormone, metabolic, digestive, nutritional and food sensitivity issues to get to the root cause of your health problems, where true healing begins. Our services include digestive and women’s health programs, hormone balancing, acupuncture, Lyme treatment, homeopathy and thyroid management. See ad, page 24.

TAKOMA PARK ALTERNATIVE CARE 6930 Carroll Ave, Ste 412, Takoma Park 301-328-3045 Info@TakomaCare.com TakomaCare.com

Rose Wellness Center 2944 Hunter Mill Rd, Ste 101, Oakton, VA 571-529-6699 Info@RoseWellness.com RoseWellness.com Dr. Sushma Hirani uses an integrative approach to wellness, utilizing conventional medicine and evidence-based complementary therapies. She strives to treat the whole person an d e mph a s i z e s nut r it i on , preventive care and lifestyle changes. Dr. Hirani specializes in the treatment of chronic issues such as hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders, menopause and women’s health issues. Patients love her compassionate care and personalized attention. See ad, page 24.

natural awakenings

Pediatric and adult evaluations for D.C. and MD by certified medicinal cannabis specialist.

Tr e a t m e n t / d o s i n g recommendations; nonp s ycho a c t ive proto c ols available. No residenc y restrictions for MD program.

See ad, page 10.

February 2017

39

MASSAGE

OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT

POTOMAC MASSAGE THERAPY INSTITUTE 8380 Colesville Rd., Ste. 600 Silver Spring 202-686-7046 • PMTI.org

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 $39 Student and $59 Graduate 1-hour massages. See ad, page 19.

MASSAGE INSTRUCTION POTOMAC MASSAGE THERAPY INSTITUTE 8380 Colesville Rd., Ste. 600 Silver Spring 202-686-7046 • PMTI.org

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 $39 Student and $59 Graduate 1-hour massages. See ad, page 19.

NURTURED BONES Great Falls, VA 703-738-4230 NurturedBones.com

Nurtured Bones provides a holistic approach to addressing osteoporosis and bone loss. Our BONES method will help you build strong, healthy bones for life. See ad, page 37.

PHYSICAL THERAPY NURTURED BONES Great Falls, VA 703-738-4230 NurturedBones.com

Nurtured Bones provides a holistic approach to addressing osteoporosis and bone loss. Our BONES method will help you build strong, healthy bones for life. See ad, page 37.

POLARITY THERAPY NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

Janice M Johnson 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

.

TAKOMA PARK ALTERNATIVE CARE 6930 Carroll Ave, Ste 412, Takoma Park 301-328-3045 • TakomaCare.com Info@TakomaCare.com

Pediatric and adult evaluations for D.C. and MD by certified medicinal cannabis specialist.

Tr e a t m e n t / d o s i n g recommendations; nonpsychoactive protocols available. No residency restrictions for MD program. See ad, page 10.

NATURAL LIVING RESOURCE MINDFUL HEALTHY LIFE OF METRO DC

571-358-8645 Jessica@MindfulHealthyLife.com MindfulHealthyLife.com Blog, calendar and directory for natural living, holistic parenting and family wellness.

40

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Allow me to join you in creating your own individualized treatment program, which provides a safe and supportive experience for your healing process, with Polarity Therapy and Swiss Bionic Solutions MRS 2000 (Magnetic Resonance Stimulation) pulsed electro magnetic fields (PEMF). See ad, page 11.

PRESCRIPTIONS GOLDEN HEALTH PHARMACY

46950 Community Plaza, Ste 112, Sterling, VA 703-430-8883 ElsaLam@GoldenHealthPharmacy GoldenHealthPharmacy.com Prescriptions with personal attention (we accept all insurance). Compounding pharmacy for special medications and your pet’s special needs. Integrating pharmacy services with nutritional support. Juice Bar, holistic health and wellness workshops, cooking classes for disease management and an infrared sauna with acoustic sound therapy. See ad, page 24.

RETREAT CENTER SEVENOAKS RETREAT CENTER

403 Pathwork Way Madison VA 22727 SevenoaksRetreat.org 540-948-6544 A serene and beautiful sanctuary for retreats where mindfulness and healing can occur. The lush grounds, forest and walking trails are inspirational and tranquil with wildlife and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains nearby. See ad, page 14.

SHIATSU THERAPIST NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

Nathalie Depastas 10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com • 703-865-5690 Nathalie Depastas is a highly skilled acupuncturist and Shiatsu therapist with 30 years of experience in Chinese medicine, including medical qigong. See ad, page 11.

SPIRITUAL LIVING UNITY OF GAITHERSBURG

111 Central Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 301-947-3626 • UnityOfGaithersburg.org Admin@UnityOfGaithersburg.org We are a vibrant spiritual community awakening love, joy and abundance in all. We honor all people and inspire them to live out their potential.

SPORTS REHABILITATION SHAANS CHIROPRACTIC AND SPORTS REHAB CLINIC

2946 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Ste 2-A, Falls Church, VA • 703-237-2161 Contact@ShahverdiChiropractic.com ShahverdiChiropractic.com Shaans Chiropractic is a topranked provider of effective patient-centered care for many types of sports injuries, including injuries involving the musculoskeletal system and nervous system. See ad, page 18.

THERMOGRAPHY

ULTRASOUND

NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

INFANTSEEHD

10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com • 703-865-5690 Neck Back & Beyond in Fairfax, VA, offers chiropractic and naturopathic care, acupuncture, massage, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), reflexology, lymphatic drainage and more. See ad, page 11.

ROSE WELLNESS CENTER

2944 Hunter Mill Rd, Ste 101, Oakton, VA 571-529-6699 RoseWellness.com Rose Wellness Center for Integrative Medicine offers Thermography or Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI). This noninvasive diagnostic technique creates thermal images that are analyzed for abnormalities and early signs of disease. Thermal imaging is painless, non-invasive, does not involve any compression and emits no radiation. Call today to setup your scan. See ad, page 24.

THERMOGRAPHY IMAGING, INC.

STORYTELLING I HEAR VOICES

Storytelling for Adults and Children 703-568-0698 S_Coti@hotmail.com • IHearVoices.biz I am a storyteller who uses world tales and original stories to delight and inspire couples, dinner party guests, families or participants in other group events. See ad, page 22.

10721 Main St., Ste. 204, Fairfax 703-537-0410 • 3DAnd4D.com Their technicians have been performing 3D/4D/HD Ultrasounds and have scanned tens of thousands of babies over the past decade covering the VA, MD, DC and WV areas. Their state-of-the-art sonogram equipment allows expectant parents to see their baby in live 4D motion video, unlike any other on the market today. Packages available. .

VETERINARIAN - HOLISTIC

HOLISTIC VETERINARY HEALING

Pema Choepel Mallu, DVM, CVA, M.Ac. L.Ac 12627 Wisteria Dr, Ste C/D, Germantown, MD 240-715-6570 HolVetHealing@gmail.com HolisticVeterinaryHealing.com We offer integrative compassionate veterinary care. We view your animal as a whole focusing on the root cause of dis-harmony for long-term healing. See ad, page 14.

YOGA RAJ YOGA CENTER

10721 Main St., Ste. 204, Fairfax 703-270-1008 ThermographyImaging.com

Offering thermography imaging for all areas of the body, they can scan any area, including breast, upper body, lower body or full body to assist in diagnosing disease and determining prognosis. It is often complements other forms of medical testing such as mammograms, MRIs and CT scans. See ad, page 29.

22821 Silverbrook Center Dr, Unit 160, 2nd Fl, Sterling, VA 703-376 3433 Info@RajYoga.org • RajYoga.org Welcoming, serene yoga center.

Daily classes: Kundalini yoga, vinyasa and children’s yoga.

Meditations, music and tea.

Beautiful uplifting space to rejuvenate, strengthen and relax mind body and soul. See ad, page 23.

YOGA WITH NYA

Nya@YogaWithNya.com YogaWithNya.com

yoga with

Nya A lemay hu is a yoga instructor in Washington, D.C., dedicated to building community through sharing the practice of∙ private y o g a . N y a o f f e r s p r i v a t∙ especialty ∙ sunday commu instruction and workplace yoga. at Un See ad, page 27. ∙ wor

yogawit nya@yogawit washington, dc ∙ 202

I’m not interested in my legacy. I made up a word: ‘live-acy.’ I’m more interested in living. ~John Glenn

natural awakenings

February 2017

41

Turn Your Passion Into a Business

Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!*

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can empower yourself and others to create a healthier world while working from your home earning an income doing something you love!

No publishing experience is necessary.

You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 90 markets across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic (listed below).

Contact us about acquiring an existing publication FOR SALE highlighted in RED or starting a magazine in an open territory.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Huntsville, AL Gulf Coast AL/MS* Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Boulder/Ft. Collins, CO Denver, CO Fairfield County, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/ St. Augustine, FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & the Florida Keys Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL Orlando, FL Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL Treasure Coast, FL* Atlanta, GA Hawaiian Islands Chicago, IL Chicago Western Suburbs, IL* Indianapolis, IN Baton Rouge, LA Lafayette, LA New Orleans, LA Boston, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Wayne County, MI Western MI Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN* Charlotte, NC Lake Norman, NC Raleigh/Durham/ Chapel Hill, NC

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Bergen/Passaic, NJ* Central, NJ Hudson County, NJ Mercer County, NJ Monmouth/ Ocean, NJ North Central NJ South NJ Santa Fe/Abq., NM* Las Vegas, NV Albany, NY* Buffalo, NY Central NY* Long Island, NY Hudson Valley W., NY Manhattan, NY* Westchester/ Putnam Co’s., NY Central OH Cincinnati, OH Toledo, OH Oklahoma City, OK Portland, OR Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA Chester/Delaware Counties, PA Harrisburg/York, PA Lancaster/Berks, PA Lehigh Valley, PA* Philadelphia, PA Pocono, PA/ Warren Co., NJ Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre, PA Rhode Island Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Greenville, SC* Chattanooga, TN* Austin, TX Dallas Metroplex, TX Dallas/FW Metro N Houston, TX San Antonio, TX* SE Texas Richmond, VA Seattle, WA Madison, WI* Milwaukee, WI Puerto Rico Dominican Republic

* Existing magazines for sale

For more information, visit our website NaturalAwakeningsFranchise.com or call 239-530-1377 42

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

*Natural Awakenings recently received the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review.

“TV•Ears saved our marriage!”

New Special Offer!

TM

The Doctor Recommended TV•EARS® headset has helped millions of people hear television dialog clearly while eliminating concerns about loud volume or the need to buy expensive hearing aids. Put on your TV•Ears headset and turn it up as loud as you want while others listen to the television at a comfortable volume. You can even put the TV on mute and listen through the headset only. Others in the room won’t hear a thing, but we guarantee you will. Imagine watching television with your family again without fighting over the TV volume or listening in private while a loved one sleeps or reads. As thousands of our customers have said, “TV•Ears has

Adjustable Foam Tips

changed our lives!”

Voice Clarifying Circuitry® The TV•Ears headset contains proprietary Voice Clarifying Circuitry that automatically adjusts the audio curve to increase the clarity of television dialog while decreasing the volume of background sounds such as music and sound effects.

The words seem to jump out of the audio track, Transmitter/Charger making even whispers and accents understandable.

Pat and Shirley Boone Happily married over 60 years!

“I can watch TV as loud as I want without disturbing my wife. The dialog is clear and it’s good to hear my favorite shows again!”

— Pat Boone, Singer/Songwriter

120dB Volume

Adjustable Tone

Fast, Safe and Simple. TV•Ears transmitters use Speed of Light Infrared Technology™ (SoLIT) to send the television’s audio to the headset. Unlike slower Bluetooth or Radio Frequency, SoLIT does not need to be paired or adjusted, is completely safe with pacemakers, and will not interfere with your telephone.

Twice the Power with 120 decibels. The TV•Ears headsets are classified as “Assistive Listening Devices” for hearing-impaired individuals. This special designation permits the TV•Ears headset to have twice the maximum volume compared to all other wireless headsets.

Voice Clarifying TV•Ears Headset

“My wife and I have used the TV•Ears headset almost daily for many years and find them an invaluable help in our enjoyment of television. We would not be without them. As a retired Otologist, I heartily recommend them to people with or without hearing loss.”

— Robert Forbes, M.D., California

TV Ears Original™......$129.95 Special Offer

Now $59.95 +s&h For fastest service, call toll-free between 6am and 6pm PST Monday through Friday.

1-800-379-7832 or visit

www.tvears.com Please mention Promotion Code 35757

30-day risk free trial

Over 2 million satisfied users since 1998 TV dialog is clear and understandable Works better than hearing aids

Voice Clarifying Products

TV Ears is a trademark of TV Ears, Inc. © 2017 TV Ears, Inc. All Rights Reserved

natural awakenings

February 2017

43

Visit muih.edu to register for free upcoming events and webinars

Degrees with Meaning for Careers with Purpose Nutrition & Integrative Health Program Enrolling for April and September 2017 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 offers graduate programs in: Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine | Herbal Medicine Health & Wellness Coaching | Health Promotion Nutrition and Integrative Health | Yoga Therapy

Online, on campus, and weekend options available No GREs required muih.edu 800-735-2968 44

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com