Natural Awakenings Washington, D.C. August 2016

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

Growing Up Empowered

FREE

Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves

SALTY SOLACE The Benefits of

Salt Therapy

Leftover Makeover Ways to Halt Food Waste

Just Walk

22 Minutes a Day Boosts Well-Being photo by Rincon Images Photography RinconImages.com

August 2016 | Washington, D.C. Edition | NaturalAwakeningsDC.com natural awakenings August 2016

1

Barnard MEDICAL CENTER

Your state-of-the-art medical center

Your path to good nutrition

Complete Care for a Healthier You

Your personalized health plan

Our Focus Is on Nutrition • Comprehensive nutrition counseling with registered dietitians • Group cooking classes • Recipes and resources

Special Expertise in • Weight Control • Heart Health • Diabetes • Chronic Conditions 2

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Your tools for success

We Spend Extra Time with You • Our team spends extended time with each patient to address their medical needs.

5100 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 401 | Washington, DC 20016 | 202-527-7500 | BarnardMedical.org

natural awakenings August 2016

3

4

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

natural awakenings August 2016

5

letterfrompublisher Dear Friends, contact us Publisher, Editor in Chief Robin Fillmore Contributing Editors Jessica Bradshaw Randy Kambic Grace Ogden Design & Production Irene Sankey Marketing Director Beverly Nickerson Sales Director Laina Poulakos Outreach Director Samantha Hudgins

Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C. Phone: 202-505-4835 Fax: 202-827-7955 4938 Hampden Lane, #214 Bethesda, MD 20814 Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com NaturalAwakeningsDC.com ©2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe 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.

Parenting for every generation and to any age child is a challenge. I know that my mother kept very busy as a fulltime school teacher (who even worked in the summer) and mother of three. She and my father equipped each of us to be self-sufficient in making our own fun and keeping ourselves occupied. Out the door in the morning and not due back until the streetlights were on (or the dinner bell rang for supper), we were left to create our own adventures.

I was a girl on the move with my pals and my threespeed bike. We explored the woods for bugs and rocks, built forts from fallen trees, played “school” with my mom’s cast-off mimeographed worksheets—our stuffed animals serving as students. We would bike for hours throughout the neighborhood and beyond, keeping tabs on new families moving in (hopefully with new potential playmates) and going to the soft-serve stand at the end of the street to spend our saved pennies on raspberry-vanilla twist cones. Many years, I spent my summers up on Crow Lake in Ontario, Canada, without regular friends nearby. Climbing trees, catching frogs and minnows and watching the clouds go by were the highlights of my day.

Creatively was the core of our world—without television (which only played soap operas and game shows during the day) and any type of electronic device. Our theme in this month’s Natural Awakenings is empowering youth and helping to discover the path to creativity in the age of 24-hour children’s television programming, Disney movies on demand, robotic Legos and Pokemon Go.

As parents (and grandparents), it is a challenge to balance between giving children too much and doing too much for them, while equipping them with the foundation and tools to be creative, confident and giving members of the community. Author April Thompson offers some great suggestions in our Healthy Kids’ article this month, “Yay for Play,” on inspiring children (and adults) to engage in creative play—perfect timing as the luster of the long summer vacation has completely worn off. Just as important, Judith Fertig examines the path to empowerment—exploring some of the ways that parents and organizations are helping children of all ages learn to take brave and important steps for their future and for their communities. The key to nurturing thriving children is rooted in positivity, so that they can move ahead with confidence, and empathy, learning that serving others can be a way of serving the self.

Looking ahead to the fall—we are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Montgomery County Parks. There will be a series of free events for the community, starting with free seated massages and a Doonya Bollywood class in Bethesda and an introduction to tai chi in Cabin John. Visit NaturalAwakeningsDC.com for dates and times. All are invited, even if you aren’t a resident of Montgomery County.

Finally, our next Healthy Living Expo will be held at Unity of Fairfax on September 17. This will be our first event in northern Virginia and will feature many of the area’s top natural health professionals, body workers, creators of healthy foods and drinks, both as exhibitors and speakers. Unity of Fairfax, our great partner for this event, is a wonderful spiritual home to many in the area and we are excited to be working with them. For more details and tickets, visit our event website at HealthyLivingExpoVA.com.

As the last days of summer roll like a heat wave over us, make time to be creative—even if you don’t have children. Creativity is just as important for adults as it is for children!

Peace-

Robin Fillmore, Publisher

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

contents 8 newsbriefs 1 1 eventspotlight 12 1 2 healthbriefs 1 5 globalbriefs 1 7 invitation 22 moneymatters 23 firstperson 15 24 inspiration 28 healthykids 30 fitbody 32 consciouseating 34 naturalpet 17 36 leadingedge 37 yogaspotlight 38 calendar 42 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.

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.

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

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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.

1 8 GROWING UP

EMPOWERED

18

Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves

by Judith Fertig

20 SALT AIR IN THE CITY

Salt Rooms Soothe Allergies and Skin Conditions

by Avery Mack

22 COLLEGE PLANNING 101 Preparing for the Marathon of Your Child’s Education

by Barry Wind and Jeremy A. Pearce

23 QIGONG FOR VETERANS

Why Do They Love Getting High?

by Todd Nichols

24 AYAHUASCA

22

A Hero’s Journey

by Angela Blueskies

28 YAY FOR PLAY

32

Ways to Spark a Child’s Creativity

by April Thompson

30 JUST WALK

22 Minutes a Day Boosts Well-Being

by Randy Kambic

32 A GOOD FOOD FIGHT

Keeping Food Out of the Trash Bin

34

by April Thompson

34 HANDLE WILD THINGS WITH CARE

How to Safely Help Hurt Animals

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

by Sandra Murphy

natural awakenings August 2016

7

newsbriefs DC VegFest 2016

C

ompassion Over Killing is proud to present DC VegFest 2016, the largest vegetarian celebration in the nation’s capital. This festival highlights the many benefits and joys of choosing plant-based foods. DC VegFest 2016 will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on September 24 at Yards Park.

DC VegFest features presentations by renowned authors and celebrity speakers, free food samples, more than 130 vendors, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations, a beer garden, live music and more. As this is an outdoor event, leashed dogs are welcome, and a shaded Barking Lot area with water will be provided.

This is the premier event for those that are curious about vegetarian eating. It also provides an opportunity to learn about new companies and products. For those who are searching for ways to help animals and the environment, this fun and free event has activities for the whole family.

Location: N St., SE & First St., SE, Washington, D.C. (Lot H/I, across from Nationals Stadium). Learn more at DCVegFest.com. See ad, page 29.

Head on over (Fido, too) to Woofstock

T

he most-anticipated dog-friendly party will be taking place from 3 to 7 p.m. on August 6 in the DC Pavilion (Gallaudet Pavilion) and all are invited. Barkly, The Big Bad Woof, and DC Pavilion are proud to announce the second annual Woofstock, a festival celebrating the dogs and dog-lovers of the D.C. metro area.

The event will feature a lineup of award-winning bands, craft beer by Raven Brewery, local food trucks, exclusive treats, giveaways and a special animal adoption event with the recently merged Washington Humane Society and Washington Animal Rescue League.

Of course, there will be lots of puppies, too.

The free event is an annual festival established in 2015 by Barkly, a local leading pet technology company, to create a unique pet-friendly experience for animal lovers and celebrate and promote animal compassion, welfare and education. They are joined in sponsorship by The Big Bad Woof, a well-known and beloved resource for wholesome and holistic pet foods, supplements and other assorted pet treats and toys, with locations in Hyattsville and Takoma D.C., plus providing local delivery. Also joining as a sponsor this year is the DC Garden, which is a new outdoor beer garden and entertainment venue that boasts the largest pet-friendly outdoor space in the city.

Tickets are free but will be going fast. Last year, this event sold-out and left many dog-lovers wishing they had obtained tickets early.

Location: 1399 5th St., NE, D.C. Tickets and more informaion can be found at WoofstockDC.com.

8

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Whole Pet Central to Open Fourth Store

W

hole Pet Central, a local leader for healthy and natural pet supplies and food, has added another store to their growing list of regional outlets. Their new location is in Columbia, which brings the number of stores to four in the greater D.C. area.

The new store is in the Snowden Center at 6925 Oakland Mills Road.

According to co-owner, John McGeehan, “There’s some buildout work that needs to be done, but we have had a ‘soft-opening’ of the new store already. We purchased an existing business called Dogs & Company, and we’re in the process of changing the layout slightly to be more congruent to our other stores.

Similar to us, Dogs & Company was a store focusing on all-natural and organic pet nutrition. So we’ll be similar to them but with a broader selection of all-natural products.”

McGeehan and co-owner Liora Robinson work hard to provide family pets with food that contains only natural ingredients. They are diligent to find foods that contain no meat byproducts, wheat gluten, animal digest, artificial preservatives nor any other inferior ingredients, believing that dogs, cats and other small mammals deserve the best nutritional products available—just like the rest of the family. To stand by this commitment, all staff members are available to discuss each pet’s dietary needs and special health requirements—from avoiding food-related allergies to vet-recommended diets.

For more information, visit Whole PetCentral.com. See ad, page 16.

A Weekend Event Focused on Building Health and Traditional Chinese Medicine

F

ar more than a conference, Building Bridges of Integration for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a unique healing experience in a learning environment.

Its electric energy field draws participants back year after year to build community, share experiences and transform as practitioners. The event will take place from October 13 to 16 at the Hyatt Regency in Reston and is sponsored by the TCM World Foundation.

This year’s focus—Oneness, Consciousness and Everyday Health—explores TCM’s understanding of the inseparability of body, mind and spirit. As the world around us appears to fragment and seek separation and distinction, an understanding of interrelationships on all levels is more relevant than ever.

This unique forum includes plenary meetings, interactive workshops and experiential energy sessions.

Keynote speakers include: Peter Russell, author of The Global Brain; Eben Alexander III, M.D., author of Proof of Heaven; and Nan Lu, OMD, author of Digesting the Universe: A Revolutionary Framework for Healthy Metabolism Function. Other faculty and session descriptions are at TCMConference.org.

CMEs and PDAs will be available.

Location: Reston Town Center, 1800 Presidents St., Reston. For more information and registration, visit TCMConference.org. See ad, page 25.

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 ⠀㌀ ㄀⤀ 㜀㜀 ⴀ㜀 㐀

natural awakenings August 2016

9

newsbriefs A Free Talk: When Thyroid Hormones Fail Us

E

ven though many women are taking thyroid hormones and their lab tests state that they are “normal”, up to 90 percent continue to suffer from many of the symptoms. Dr. Serena Satcher, M.D., is offering a free wellness talk to help women break out of this cycle by discussing the root causes of hypothyroidism and natural ways to overcome it. The date and time of the talk will be made available upon registration.

In her practice, Satcher has worked with women who continue to suffer from a list of symptoms, including: • tiredness and insomnia • inability to lose weight • cold hands and feet • constipation • depression and lack of motivation • thinning hair and acne • memory problems or brain fog • feelings of nervousness and heart palpitations

Regain Your Health and Vitality 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 • Digestive Health Program

For more details go to

2944 Hunter Mill Road Suite 101, Oakton, VA 22124

Washington, D.C.

To learn more about this free class, including date and time, contact by phone 703-454-9326, ext. 0 or email Info@ TreatYourselfToHealth.com. See ad, page 17.

• Women’s Health Program

www.RoseWellness.com Sushma Hirani, MD

10

The traditional approach is to drive the labs into the “normal” range by giving thyroid replacement hormones, such as synthetic thyroid hormones. This drug-only approach is not helping most of the women who try it.

In her free talk, Satcher will provide information that will help sufferers to understand the underlying cause of 85 to 90 percent of hypothyroidism in the U.S, why it’s destroying not only the thyroid gland, and other glands and tissues as well, why taking thyroid medication may not help and why a personalized approach is essential.

Satcher, an M.D. and certified in PMR, functional medicine (IFMCP) and integrative medicine, specializes in metabolic and autoimmune problems affecting the glands, nervous system and musculoskeletal system, with an office in Fairfax.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Great spirits have always encountered opposition from mediocre minds. ~Albert Einstein

eventspotlight

You’re Invited

To the Healthy Living Expo in Fairfax

I

n these health-conscious times, most people have at least one item that pertains to their health, with which they need help or encouragement. Likewise, most people find it challenging to fit into their busy schedules the time to do research to figure out who is the best medical practitioner to consult, call to set an appointment (which, for some practices, can be weeks away) and then take time off from work to attend the appointment.

At the Healthy Living Expo, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 17, held at Unity of Fairfax, in Oakton, all attendees will have the chance to speak and learn from local health-related professionals that are ready to answer questions, give guidance and present opportunities to make a positive difference. Everyone is invited to attend.

For this expo, Natural Awakenings’ first event to be held in northern Virginia, we have teamed up with a new wonderful partner, Unity of Fairfax. For several years, this center for spiritual and physical healing has hosted a similar event and has helped many attendees. Like previous Natural Awakenings: Healthy Living Days and Expos, there will be 40 (or more) exhibitors, providing information and samples on a range of top-

ics related to natural health and healing. There will be nutritious and organic food to eat (and sample) as well as the opportunity to have a massage or reiki session.

Throughout the course of the day, speakers will offer 30-minute talks or demos on a range of topics related to healthy cooking and eating, vitality and fitness, managing stress and weight loss, as well as natural treatments for common conditions (which can keep you off medications). In the coming weeks, a list of talks and speakers will be available on the event website.

Most importantly, this will be a day when the growing community of wellness-seekers can come together to meet one another, share their interest and support for those who are helping to make the world a bit healthier, greener and safer for all. There are still opportunities for exhibitors and speakers to join the expo, with related information available on the event website, as well.

Cost: $10 (early purchase online, before September 1)/$15. Location: Unity of Fairfax, 2854 Hunter Mill Rd., Oakton. To purchase tickets, be an exhibitor or a speaker or to get more information, visit Healthy LivingExpoVA.com. See ad, page 21.

DO N’ T JUST COV ER UP T H E S YMPTOMS Take a holistic approach to better health We utilize passive neurofeedback which has shown significant clinical results with • ADD/ADHD • PTSD • Stress • Anxiety/Depression • Post-Concussion Syndrome

Functional medicine, nutrition and lab testing: • Type II Diabetes • Thyroid Conditions • Fibromyalgia • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Sleep Disorders • Peripheral Neuropathy • Chronic Pain Management We also provide acupuncture, cold laser and chiropractic for complete holistic care in a one-stop natural health facility.

Craig D. Sanford, DC FIAMA, FMCP American Association Of Integrative Medicine

NOVAAlternativeMed.com

CALL FOR YOUR CONSULTATION 703-821-1013 1485 Chain Bridge Rd, Ste. 100, McLean, VA

NOVA Center for Alternative Medicine natural awakenings August 2016

11

healthbriefs

Delayed Kindergarten Reduces Attention Deficit

D

elaying kindergarten enrollment for one year shows significant mental health benefits for children, according to a Stanford University study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research. Reviewing results from a mental health survey completed by more than 35,000 Danish parents, the researchers saw that youngsters held back from kindergarten for as little as one year showed a 73 percent reduction in inattentiveness and hyperactivity for an average child at age 11, compared to children enrolled the year earlier.

Measuring inattentiveness and hyperactivity reflect a child’s ability to selfregulate. The generally accepted theory is that young people that are able to stay focused, sit still and pay attention longer tend to do much better in school.

“This is some of the most convincing evidence we’ve seen to support what U.S. parents and policymakers have already been doing—choosing to delay entry into kindergarten,” says Stanford Graduate School of Education Professor Thomas S. Dee. In addition to improved mental health, children with later kindergarten enrollment dates also exhibited superior emotional and social skills.

The number of U.S. children entering kindergarten at age 6 instead of 5 has progressively increased to about 20 percent, according to the study. Many parents are opting to delay kindergarten enrollment for a year to give their children a leg up in physical and emotional maturity and social skills.

Grape Juice Boosts Memory and Driving Skills

R

esearch from the UK University of Leeds has confirmed that drinking just one glass of grape juice a day increases spatial memory and driving abilities. The researchers attribute the brain boosting benefits to the polyphenols in the grapes.

The study followed 25 healthy mothers between the ages of 40 and 50. Each had young children and worked more than 30 hours a week. The mothers drank 12 ounces of Concord grape juice every day for 12 weeks and had their driving skills tested before and after the study period using a computer simulator.

Louise Dye, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Leeds and senior author of the study, notes, “This research is very promising, as it suggests that the cognitive benefits associated with Concord grape juice are not exclusive to adults with early memory decline. We saw these benefits even after the grape juice was no longer being consumed, suggesting a long-term effect of dietary flavonoids.”

12

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

A Spicy Blend for Better Circulation

by Laina Poulakos he circulatory system is the body’s transportation system— carrying oxygen, nutrients and blood through the body. A healthy circulatory system benefits the body in many ways. It keeps the mind sharp as it benefits the heart, digestion system and joints and muscles—all while ridding the body of toxins.

A good tonic for the circulatory system is garlic, valued for its purification and the thinning of the blood. Additionally, horseradish, known for its strong effect on the digestion system, is excellent in helping the body to get rid of excess mucus. Likewise, just a pinch of cayenne pepper helps with blood flow and excess mucus, while helping with joint issues.

When using any of these food additives, a little goes a long way.

One recommendation is to make a blend of these herbs to use in cooking for added flavor. Using the blend on vegetables and pasta is both delicious and very nutritious.

Also, a spicy tea can be consumed especially when it is cold outside or when suffering from a cold.

T

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 14.

Meditation for Healthful Digestion

by Bonita Woods utritional counselors and holistic chefs have a unique perspective to help people resolve digestive issues. The causes of gastric distress can vary from IBS to cancer, from gluten issues to emotional trauma—or one of many other possible concerns. It is important to design a unique gut recovery program for each individual. No two are alike, except for one detail—incorporating meditation to patient’s daily agenda.

Clients who meditate recover their gastric well-being with a graciousness that is obvious to them, and that is also reflected in data. Digestive distress creates inflammation and blocks the flow of movement in the digestive system.

Meditation helps clients to find their personal calm place of center and stimulates energy flow through their whole being.

Of course, it is important to physically heal and sooth the system, but meditation is a significant support for this effort. When stressed, our digestive tract fills with adrenaline, which reduces both oxygen and energy flow. This creates a “fight or flight” survival response that causes inflammation, acid reflux ulcers and food sensitivities.

Taking even three minutes before eating to meditate can counter this “bad-gut” behavior. This can also help to determine if the desire for food is based on actual hunger or distressed emotions that are stuck in the gut. Meditating on the sacral chakra with the intention of emotional exploration and release can support physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

N

Bonita Woods, NC, DM, is a nutritional counselor and chef. Read her articles on healthful diet, including “Is Your Belly a Brewery?” and “Living Gluten Free” at BonitaWoods.org or visit her at Bonita Woods Wellness Institute, 140 Little Falls St., Falls Church, VA. See ad, page 32.

Aromatherapy Soothes Allergies

R

esearch from Korea’s Chung-Ang University has found that inhaling aromatherapy infusions comprising a combination of sandalwood, frankincense and ravensara for five minutes twice daily significantly reduces symptoms of allergies after seven days. The researchers tested 54 men and women, half of which were tested using a placebo of almond oil.

Total nasal symptom score (TNSS) and rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) results were both significantly lower in the aromatherapy group. TNSS scores decreased by more than half and RQLQ scores decreased by more than 60 percent. Scores for fatigue and sleep quality also improved in the aromatherapy group.

“These findings indicate that inhalation of certain aromatherapy oils help relieve perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms, improve rhinitis-specific quality of life and reduce fatigue in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis,” Chung-Ang University’s Seo Yeon Choi and Kyungsook Park explain in their paper.

Prenatal Sun Exposure Lowers Asthma Risk

R

esearch has shown that children with mothers that live in sunnier locations during their second trimester are significantly less likely to have asthma than other children.

A consortium of researchers from the University of Kansas, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology analyzed data from both hospitals and national surveys to determine sunlight exposure for the mothers. Increased exposure to sunlight increases levels of natural vitamin D.

“We’re not looking at sunny places versus nonsunny places,” clarifies David Slusky, a University of Kansas assistant professor of economics. “We looked at the relative differences of the level of sunlight at a particular place at a particular time of year.”

yoga with nya ∙ private instruction ∙ specialty workshops ∙ sunday community classes at Union Market ∙ workplace yoga

yogawithnya.com nya@yogawithnya.com washington, dc ∙ 202.212.9304 natural awakenings August 2016

13

healthbriefs

Pema Choepel Mallu, DVM, CVA, MAc, LAc

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

$25 offisit

V First Dr ’s mbined

e co Not to nby other offer. with a

Expires 9/16/1

6

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

Rolfing Structural Integration Improves Sitting Posture

by Jazmine Fox-Stern hen sitting, many people believe that pulling their shoulders back, lifting up the chest and tucking in their buttocks to eliminate the curve of the lower back creates a healthy posture. If these actions seem difficult or make us feel uncomfortable, it doesn’t mean we are lazy or weak.

Good posture actually comes naturally from using our body efficiently and allowing its structure to support us, rather than holding ourselves up by means of muscles alone.

When we sit, the position of the pelvis can either make slouching inevitable or attaining a more upright posture easy.

If the buttocks are shifted forward, the back gets rounder, and the added weight compresses the nerves near the tailbone; breathing becomes restricted and the neck and shoulders naturally tense to try to hold us upright. However, by popping out the buttocks and seating the pelvis on the chair so that our weight of drops down to the front edges of our “sitting bones”, we can relax our entire body and still remain upright and balanced.

Rolfing Structural Integration practitioners analyze how different positions and tension patterns shift the way our weight is supported, which in turn affects posture.

Rolfers release these constricted areas in the connective tissues (fascia), which can bind us into habitual tension patterns. They also advise clients about the most efficient ways to sit, stand and move to help them achieve the balance, mobility and awareness needed to be able to enjoy a consistently relaxed, upright posture.

W

Jazmine Fox-Stern is a certified advanced Rolfer in Boston, MA. To schedule a free consultation, call 617-308-7104 or visit BostonBodyBalance.com. For more information, visit Rolf.org. See ad, page 21.

Breastfed Babies Have Fewer Colds and Ear Infections

A

study from the University of Texas has found that increased breastfeeding decreases ear infections among nursing children. The researchers followed 367 babies between 1 and 12 months old from 2008 through 2014.

The scientists analyzed family history traits of smoking, ear infections, breastfeeding and formula feeding.

Nose and throat mucosal samples were taken throughout the study period to identify infections, and parents informed the researchers whenever the baby experienced an infection.

The study was led by Dr. Tasnee Chonmaitree, a pediatrics professor from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. “We clearly showed that frequent upper respiratory infections, carriage of bacteria in the nose and lack of breastfeeding are major risk factors for ear infections,” he states. “Prolonged breastfeeding was associated with significant reductions in both colds and ear infections, a common complication of colds.”

14

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

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

Scrambling Species

Climate Change Favors Some Birds over Others Decades of data show that climate change is manipulating the way avian species move across continents. For instance, the orchard oriole is losing prime habitat in the South, but gaining more up north. Thousands of species worldwide face the same dilemma. Specific birds need a particular habitat, such as open spaces or groves of trees, and some of their traditionally preferred spots are becoming unlivable.

England’s Durham University ecologist Phillip Stephens, along with researchers from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the U.S. Geological Survey, have compiled nearly half a century’s worth of occurrence data from thousands of citizen scientists. Birders submitted their observations to the PanEuropean Common Birds Monitoring Scheme and the North American Breeding Bird Survey for 145 terrestrial bird species native to Europe and 380 species native to the United States.

“We used that information to generate a prior expectation for whether the species would’ve been advantaged or disadvantaged by climate change,” says Stephens.

The predictions were compared with actual bird abundance data from 1980 through 2010, and the populations that were expected to lose suitable habitat declined, while those expected to find their habitats improve increased. He states, “Recent climate change has already favored one set of species over another.”

Read the report at ClimateChange.Birdlife.org.

LOL TX

Hope for a New Generation Despite being less confident than their elders, a new study by PsychTests.com, in Montreal, reveals that Millennials (those born between 1980 and 2000) are an ambitious and tenacious generation that continues to prove potential critics wrong.

Labeled by some as self-entitled, arrogant and immature from being coddled by hovering parents, the company’s research says that Millennials are not afraid to push themselves to achieve lofty goals, work hard or take on difficult challenges.

Collecting data from 1,035 people that took their Ambition Test, the researchers looked at the differences between Millennials, Generation X (born between 1960 and 1980) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1960) in terms of their levels of aspiration, persistence and sense of self-efficacy. The study reveals that while Millennials lagged a little behind the other two generations on some factors related to ambition, the potential of these young adults should not be underestimated.

“One can argue that Millennials’ hopeful and determined nature is a case of idealism,” explains Ilona Jerabek, Ph.D., president of PsychTests. “Some have just started out in the workforce, so they’re eager to prove themselves, which could also mean that at some point they’ll be blindsided by the reality of what it’s like to be out there in the real world.”

Toxic Trinkets

Low-Cost Jewelry May Harbor Cadmium In recent years, the European Commission has banned cadmium in all jewelry sold in Europe, but those shopping for low-cost jewelry in North America from popular fashion chains may be wearing products made with cadmium, a heavy metal that can be particularly toxic for kids. There are no known risks for people that wear contaminated jewelry, but swallowing or chewing on a piece containing high concentrations of the toxic metal could allow it to seep into the body.

James Van Loon, director of risk management at Health Canada’s consumer product safety branch, says that children’s bodies more readily absorb the toxic metal, and because they are more likely to put things in their mouths, jewelry that is marketed to those under 15 should contain virtually no cadmium.

Dr. Gérald Zagury, who performed tests and has published several studies on heavy metals in jewelry, says one sample contained the highest amount of cadmium ever reported in Canada for such a product. “It’s pretty close to pure cadmium,” he says. According to Health Canada, cadmium is cheap and melts at a lower point than more commonly used zinc, lowering energy costs for product makers.

According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, cadmium is a known carcinogen that can also lead to kidney failure, bone loss and other complications in those that are chronically exposed over time.

Source: EWG.org natural awakenings August 2016

15

Good Reads

Fiction Readers Have More Empathy where healthy food comes naturally

Animal Nutrition Experts Since 2005 WE’RE DIFFERENT from national chain stores.

ALL of our foods and treats are natural and nutritious.

ROCKVILLE • ASHBURN • HERNDON www.wholepetcentral.com

The love of books may begin at any age, but for most, it starts in childhood. Now, scientists are studying the effects of reading on the brain with MRIs, polls, surveys and experiments. The results indicate that readers of fiction are more empathetic toward others. By engaging with a story, they are temporarily placing themselves in a character’s shoes, thus fostering empathy in real life, and literary reading amplifies this effect.

According to a Stanford University study, reading a challenging book also helps us become smarter, as well as more empathetic. By attempting to tackle harder books, we create new connections in our minds that we might not have done otherwise. Neuroscientist Bob Dougherty remarks, “The right patterns of ink on a page can create vivid mental imagery and instill powerful emotions.”

David Comer Kidd, author of another related study, observes, “Like opening a window to let fresh air into our home, literature opens up our minds to the myriad ideas that we wouldn’t be able to experience on our own. We can pause to analyze the experiences depicted as if they were our own, expanding our experience of the world.”

Show Stopper

Circuses Cease Exotic Animal Acts The Ringling Brothers Circus made good on a promise to retire their last contingent of performing elephants to the Center for Elephant Conservation, in Polk City, Florida, with the last such show streamed worldwide in May. While Ringling will retain the services of tigers, lions, leopards, horses, camels, dogs and kangaroos, the Mexican Congress has voted to prohibit exotic animals under big tops across their country.

That means no more tigers jumping through hoops, elephants used as props or monkeys dressed in tiny outfits. The bill requires circuses to report the wildlife they own, which would then be made available to interested zoos.

Source: The New York Times

Green Serenity

Sikkim Now a Wholly Organic State Sikkim, the northeastern Indian state located between Bhutan and Nepal, has rid its agricultural land of pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified crops and other artificial inputs on around 75,000 hectares, or about 300 square miles, of agricultural land, making it its country’s first organic state.

Instead, farmers use natural alternatives such as green manure and compost.

Twelve years ago, the Pawan Chamling-led government decided to make Sikkim an organic farming state through a declaration in the legislative assembly.

After the entry of chemical inputs for farmland was restricted and their sale banned, farmers had no option but to go organic.

Source: TheHindu.com 16

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

An Invitation

invitation

From Lovelight Festival co-founder, Wynne Paris

Namaste Friends,

Wynne Paris (left), Sri Dharma Mittra and Michael Lang (right)

As the nation mourns and the world turns upside down, I believe the only thing that can really change the world is love. Together with my longtime friend and Woodstock festival co-founder Michael Lang, I invite you to raise your voices, open your hearts and practice yoga at the first, of more to come, Lovelight Yoga and Arts Festival.

Honoring the values of the Woodstock generation and dedicated to the path of yoga and transformation, the Lovelight Festival features great kirtan teachers like Krishna Das, GuruGanesha Singh and David Newman. It also stars one of the greatest living legends of Yoga, Sri Dharma Mittra. With a few groovy rock bands and a number of IDM DJs thrown into the mix, we hope to bring generations and worlds together, uniting them in spirit, dharma and action.

This festival will be alcohol-free, drug-free and all vegetarian—a truly high vibrational and transformational experience.

Celebrating Integral yoga and ISKCON’s (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) 50th anniversary, the Lovelight Festival brings traditions and lineages together with modern yoga styles like dharma, Jivamukti, Kundalini, hatha and tantra as well as good ole fashioned hippie Earth wisdom.

Celebrating the arts, Lovelight also offers fire dancing, hooping, live painting, installations and theme camps including a children’s village for the younger mystics among us.

The Lovelight Yoga and Arts Festival is a wholly interactive environment wherein the goal is to enlighten and empower, as well as encourage expression and participation. At Lovelight, the line between performer and participant is blurred; the Lovelight community is so rich with talent and wisdom, everyone plays a part in a cosmic passion play that creates inspiration, knowledge and brother- and sister-hood. We share the light inside of us and know that we are warmed by the light in others.

Please join us for a full chakra experience that offers something for everyone, whether you are looking to connect with nature, deepen your practice, make new friends or return to the garden for three more days of peace, love and music. I hope to see you there, my friends.

Wynne Paris OM OM OM,

Location: Camp Ramblewood, Darlington, MD. For more information and registration, visit LovelightFestival.com. See ad, page 5. natural awakenings August 2016

17

GROWING UP EMPOWERED Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves

by Judith Fertig

T

he plugged-in, stressed-out world that challenges adults can be even more difficult for teens in the throes of hormones, peer pressure and a selfie culture. Parents can help their children thrive and become empowered individuals by nurturing desirable character traits such as resourcefulness, resilience, perseverance, self-reliance, independence, empathy and social competence.

Child psychologist Michele Borba, Ed.D., of Palm Springs, California, is a former classroom teacher and the mother of three grown children who dispenses advice at MicheleBorba.com/blog.

Her main parenting focus is character education, as reflected in her latest book, Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World. “Tune in to what your kids love,” advises Borba. “Then find learning experiences that help them develop traits they need to be happy, productive adults.”

18

Washington, D.C.

This positive parenting approach—accentuating youthful desires and strengths, instead of deficiencies and weaknesses—helps young people develop a secure footing in life. “Kids are driven by their hearts,” observes Borba. “A positive parent doesn’t do the cookie-cutter approach, as in, ‘That’s what worked for other kids in the neighborhood,’ nor even reference what the parent did as a teen.” Teens also impose upon themselves, thinking that being trendy, beautiful, rich and famous are valuable life goals. “The positive parent looks at each child as an individual, listens to what really makes them light up, and then supports that.”

Dreaming Big

Landmark Worldwide, active in 125 cities globally, is committed to the idea that people everywhere have the possibility of achieving success, fulfillment

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

and greatness. Corporate leaders praise its programs for helping participants relate, communicate and perform well.

Josselyne Herman-Saccio, a Landmark program leader in New York City, remarks, “Every one of us has a dream, yet too many of us choose our path with fear, disguised as practicality. Our kids might get the message that, ‘You don’t do your dream as your career.’”

That thought can leave anyone feeling like something is missing.

After putting off her own career as a singer and ultimately deciding to go for it, Herman-Saccio recorded That’s What Love Can Do with her group Boy Krazy. The song rose to the top of the pop charts in 1993.

That empowering experience helped her decide to help others—including her own three children—fulfill their dreams. Today, Herman-Saccio leads the Landmark Forum for adults, and the company also offers a version of the course for 13-to-17-year-olds, an interactive, three-day program in cities across the U.S. It helps teens first understand their existing patterns of thoughts and behaviors and then move forward to create new possibilities and face new challenges and discover a new level of power, freedom, self-expression and peace of mind. For a teen to register, a parent or legal guardian must register for or have completed the organization’s adult forum and provide permission.

Teens planning for life after high school get help identifying their career passion at schools such as Upland Hills School, in Oxford, Michigan.

Its emphasis on experiential learning culminates in a senior project the teen produces, whether it’s writing a novel, building a storage shed or volunteering at the local senior citizen center. Each must someway contribute to the community. Beginning with the student’s dream, they must work their way through obstacles, setbacks and all the steps required to bring a dream to reality.

Emotional Literacy/Healthy Risk-Taking

Sometimes parents need to address a teen’s longing for friends and social connections. For youths that especially need to nurture their social skills, such

as high-functioning kids with autism or Asperger’s syndrome, film school might be an answer. At the Joey Travolta Film School and summer camp, in Lafayette, California, kids work together to make a movie; they start with a script, create sets, operate the camera, act and direct.

At the Hunter School, in Romney, New Hampshire, kids dealing with attention challenges can nurture mindbody awareness, energetic mindfulness and sensory integration. It all helps them get to know themselves and relate better to others.

Outdoor skills can help teens develop healthy risk-taking behaviors, as well as teach resilience, perseverance and self-reliance. SheJumps (SheJumps. org), in Salt Lake City, offers young women 6 to 18 years old an opportunity to master outdoor living skills, boost confidence and encourage leadership via collaborating with strong female role models. Fun activities include mountain biking, skiing and trailblazing.

Leadership

Over time, experiential learning can help youths develop leadership skills.

Lander, Wyoming’s National Outdoor Leadership School, a gap-year program for high school graduates taking a year off before college, offers courses lasting two weeks, several months or even a full year. Activities include sea kayaking, Alaskan mountain and glacier climbing and wilderness medicine.

Teens already on track and wanting to develop additional leadership skills can tap into motivational speaker and self-help author Tony Robbins’ annual Unleash the Power Within youth leadership program event. Groups of youths

14 to 17 years old collectively participate to create individual breakthroughs, move beyond fears and limiting beliefs, accomplish goals and realize true desires. Application requirements include a good academic record, at least 20 hours of community service and a guidance counselor’s recommendation.

Robbins maintains, “Grow and give is what life is all about.”

Service to Others

A way for youngsters 5 to 19 years old to become empowered is by joining a 4-H group in urban, suburban or rural areas.

If we envision a farm kid raising a calf to show at the state fair, that’s still one facet of today’s 4-H, but far from the entire scope. Founded in 1902, 4-H is a global nonprofit dedicated to learning by doing; specialties now range from computer science and graphic design to leadership, healthy living and the performing arts.

Positive mentoring by adults and developing community spirit ground 4-H clubs, camps and programs.

Research by Tufts University’s Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development and America’s land-grant colleges and universities shows that people with a 4-H background are more likely to give back to their communities than others (see Tinyurl. com/YouthDevelopmentStudy).

For Grammy-winner Jennifer Nettles, of Nashville, 4-H meant learning to perform at an early age, even flying to Chicago to do it. “I don’t know that I would be where I am today without 4-H,” she says.

“Mentors there help you. They helped me with the skills of performing and learning about being on stage; they also taught me the importance of giving back.”

Sustainable Sustenance

Growing food for themselves and others can be a great adventure for teens, while fostering resourcefulness, perseverance and ecological awareness. Seventeenyear-old Katie Stagliano launched Katie’s Krops, in Summerville, South Carolina, several years ago based on her desire to fight hunger by growing food for people that need it. Today, the enterprise offers grants for youth in any area to start and maintain a local garden, provided they give away the produce to the hungry.

The initiative has grown to more than 50 gardens around the U.S.

Both Mobile Urban Growers, in Mobile, Alabama, and Closer to Earth, in Oklahoma City, empower youth through exercising organic gardening skills, environmental and food justice advocacy and personal mentorship.

Empowering experiences for teens don’t have to cost a lot or involve travel.

“Dream big, but start small. Look around your own backyard, in your community,” says Borba. “Teens can learn to pay it forward in all kinds of ways. They can get together with their peers and take on a doable project to help others. They may even need to start by learning to self-regulate and manage stress by getting away from their phones and instead being outside getting exercise.”

Casual family activities can provide opportunities for conversations about what teens want in life or what they’re worried about, and that opens the door for adults to step up to help mentor and empower their children.

“Boys are more likely to talk while they’re doing something, like shooting baskets with you in the driveway,” observes Borba. “Girls are more likely to talk if it’s one-on-one.”

Positive parents actively listen and then clarify what they heard from their teens, says Herman-Saccio. This information helps point the way forward, to more interactive dialogue, brainstorming, problem-solving, helpful experiences and eventually, youth empowerment.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS. natural awakenings August 2016

19

healingways

Integrated branding and coaching for visionary professionals and organizations

Salt Air in the City Grace Ogden has decades of experience in Washington, DC, and a diverse international network in wellness, spirituality and social change. Her team serves leaders, nonprofits and publishers with: n

Strategic marketing

n

Business development

n

Events

Contact Grace to find out how she can help you grow.

FLI www.graceproductions.co grace@graceproductions.co (301) 445-6771

20

Washington, D.C.

Salt Rooms Soothe Allergies and Skin Conditions

by Avery Mack

A

ccording to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as 50 million Americans are affected by seasonal or year-round nasal allergies. Additionally, 56 million suffer from eczema, psoriasis or rosacea.

Prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs may help, but aren’t a cure. Salt therapy can be a gentler, all-natural solution for easing associated symptoms.

While eating too much salt is bad for the body, breathing it is a healthy activity. The Greek word for salt is halos, and halotherapy provides a welcome alternative to conventional pills, sprays and injections.

In the mid-1800s, after salt mine workers in Poland were found to have a low rate of respiratory illness, the Wieliczka Salt Mine Health Spa was established on the site of a mine to treat clinic patients for asthma and allergies. That pioneering facility is still in operation.

“In the beginning, I think salt therapy was seen as a time-consuming novelty. Now, holistically minded people are more supportive,” says Clay Juracsik, owner of the St. Louis Salt Room, in Maplewood, Missouri.

The room’s walls are covered in salt, with blocks of backlit Himalayan

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

pink salt at floor level. Clients wear disposable booties to walk through inches-deep, loose, mineral-rich Dead Sea salt to reclining chairs. The lights dim, soft music plays and salt, rich in negative ions, infuses the air for a 45-minute session.

“We have a second, smaller room where the walls and floor are not salted, so a child and parent can move around or play without disturbing others.

Our youngest client was 2 weeks old,” says Juracsik.

With the help of specially designed machines and software, microscopic salt particles one to five microns in size are circulated through the air to be deeply inhaled. As a natural anti-inflammatory agent, salt helps reduce swelling of throat tissues and nasal passages, making breathing easier for individuals suffering from such respiratory ailments as allergies, asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis.

“True halotherapy is based on using 99 percent pure sodium chloride in the halogenerator,” says Leo Tonkin, co-founder of the Salt Therapy Association, in Boca Raton, Florida. “Dead Sea, Himalayan or other salts can be used as décor.”

“My husband, Gary, had three sinus surgeries before he discovered a salt room during a trip to London and had a eureka moment,” relates Ellen Patrick, owner of four Breathe Easy salt rooms in New York City and nearby Westchester County.

“A client’s 4-year-old son tells Mom when he needs a treatment to ‘make his nose work better,’” reports Lisa Cobb, owner of Luxury on Lovers, in Dallas, Texas. “He uses a salt bed similar in style to a tanning bed and large enough for his mother to be with him for a 20-minute treatment. Pilots and flight attendants like salt rooms to counteract the recirculated air on planes. Athletes use them to increase lung capacity. A treatment works like a visit to the ocean.”

A recent pilot study conducted at The Salt Room, in Orlando, Florida, and published in the International Journal of Respiratory and Pulmonary Medicine, concluded, “Halotherpy is associated with improvement in symptoms of sinus disease in cystic fibrosis and should be explored as an adjunct treatment.”

Salt’s anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties may also reduce skin swelling and itchiness, and even acne, without drying the skin. Increased lung capacity aids blood circulation, which also helps improve skin health. Salt room operators note that frequent treatments are needed during early stages of therapy or during acute

For a list of U.S. salt rooms, see Tinyurl.com/ SaltSpaLocations. outbreaks of conditions, but can be reduced to a maintenance level over time.

Juracsik remarks, “The best success I’ve seen is with respiratory ailments like bronchitis and pneumonia. We don’t need a new, fancy pill for every illness. Salt is historically proven to be a natural and effective way to improve respiratory health.”

Options go beyond basic treatments. “Meditating in the salt room allows double relaxation,” comments Patrick. “Salty yoga is one of my favorite therapies because clients can exercise and breathe easier at the same time.

Another option comprises a sound bath, during which crystal bowl music creates a vibration similar to piano notes to quiet and focus the mind during a salt session.”

Salt treatments can be experienced regularly, seasonally or as needed. For those free of respiratory issues, a salt room visit provides a refreshing way to relax, sit, chill and breathe. Patrick views it as a form of stress management to increase well-being.

Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

Change the World One Body at a Time Training Coming Soon to a Region Near You May 30, 2017 – Bellingham, WA June 12, 2017 – Atlanta, GA August 7, 2017 – Holderness, NH September 18, 2017 – Charles Town, WV September 22, 2017 – Brookfield, WI

303-449-5903 • info@rolf.org • www.rolf.org

natural awakenings August 2016

21

moneymatters

College Planning 101 Preparing for the Marathon of Your Child’s Education

M

by Barry Wind and Jeremy A. Pearce

any parents who have welcomed their first child recently or who have toddlers or children in elementary school turn to financial advisors for help in planning for their child’s education. Typically, parents are faced with questions such as: “Will my child go to college?”

“Should I pay for some, or all, of their college bills?” “How do I save for my child’s education?”

Thankfully, there are several options to help parents who want to make saving for their child’s college expenses a priority for the family.

Many states sponsor their own versions of college savings plans and some plans allow for larger contribution limits than others. Many of the different types of college savings plans allow for tax-deferred growth, with the opportunity to make withdrawals free from tax when used for higher education purposes. Among the more popular options in education planning are

22

Washington, D.C.

529 college savings plans, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESA) and UGMA/UTMA Accounts.

The Coverdell ESA is an investment account that is owned by the parents for the benefit of the child’s education. Parents can contribute up to $2,000 per year, and funds can grow tax-deferred until they are withdrawn for qualified educational expenses, which includes kindergarten through the 12th grade. The funds can be invested in most publicly-traded securities, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Coverdell advantages include: funds grow tax-deferred; withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free; few limitations on investment options. Disadvantages are: low contribution limits compared to other savings alternatives; and contributions are not tax-deductible.

UGMAs and UTMAs are custodial accounts, owned by the parent on behalf of the child. When the child

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

reaches adult age, the account and its holdings are transferred to the child and can be used by the adult child for any purpose they see fit, hopefully for their college expenses.

These accounts may have some tax benefits for the custodian, and the investment options have few limits.

On the negative side, parents lose control of the assets just as the need for college funding arises. In addition, financial aid may be lowered when the child takes ownership of the account.

There are other ways to save for your child’s college. Withdrawals from Roth IRAs can be utilized for educational purposes although only if your retirement is fully secured through other means and you have worked with a tax professional to ensure that you can do so without penalty or a tax bite. Simply funding college expenses out of existing savings and investments is also an option, though you will likely be missing out on tax deductions and deferrals.

However you decide, it is important to start planning sooner rather than later. The time value of money takes on greater meaning when you start to realize just how fast kids grow up.

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.

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, does not guarantee any amount of success.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and SharePower Responsible Investing, Inc. are not affiliated.

firstperson

“One of the best things to happen to me was to be sentenced to a six-month drug rehab center where Mr. Todd literally was breathing new life into us.” ~ Timothy Stewart, U.S. Veteran

Qigong for Veterans Why Do They Love Getting High?

Todd Nichols has actively shared qigong and power breathing at veterans’ facilities for five years with outstanding results.

Anger and alcoholism are the norm for veterans and Nichols is breaking through by getting them high naturally.

Additionally, Nichols shares qigong at several drug rehab centers and even with “Baker Acted” patients, which refers to military patients who refuse treatment and are held against their will because they are a threat to themselves. His insights as a Heroic Qigong teacher are profound.

by Todd Nichols “No mistake in life has troubled me more than not serving in the military.

After missing that opportunity, I am sharing qigong at Veterans’ Hospitals (VAs). The biggest challenge in teaching veteran’s qigong is to gain their trust. An individual who never wore their uniform cannot understand what they endured.

Veterans immediately want to know if you’re one of them. In the beginning, this was unnerving.

VAs are tough facilities. I’ll never forget my first time teaching and being let in the locked door and it quickly shutting behind me. One vet in a wheelchair was trying to escape. Chairs were full of sand so they couldn’t be thrown. Doctors and social workers were coming in during my

class and interrupting.

Many veterans were medicated and dealing with obvious challenges. Some appeared physically fine, but their mind waged an emotional war inside. One large man was sitting in a state of shock and sat staring straight ahead making a low pitched sound. Direct exposure to the mental health struggles of veterans has enlightened me. Most Americans are unaware that 22 U.S. vets commit suicide each day. I hope my experiences help tutor other qigong instructors.

When vets do qigong breathing in a group, trust issues and whether I’m a vet or not becomes less important. Old mind patterns are temporarily bypassed as the feeling of qi is so strong that it gives

a natural high. Many vets report this has been invaluable to replace harmful addictions. My VA teacher’s position actually came from a referral from Westcare of St. Petersburg Florida, a 98-bed mental health and substance abuse center. Some vets I met at the VA also ended up in drug rehab and therefore, they saw me at both places.

Recovering heroin addicts need a powerful approach and I quickly realized I needed to wow them immediately with qigong—to make a memorable, quick and powerful statement. My grand slam includes the Breath-Empowerment and the Nine-Breath Method exercises, as this group of people is challenging to gain trust. They are guarded and apprehensive.

I draw them in and challenge them to take huge breaths, swallow it and hold it in their belly. A crammed room becomes momentarily silent, smiles and then scattered giggles.

I love to see students’ resistance turn to wonder. They tell me, “Wow, I feel electricity, and my body is warm and tingling.” Without the breathing tools, many would give up before benefiting from the immense healing rewards. Teaching qigong at the VA was not very respected in the beginning. Now it has grown from a single class to two classes each week.

The doctors, nurses and social workers now respect the group and do not disturb our class. Qigong at Westcare has been received so well that it has grown from one to three classes every week. It is now a part of their curriculum. There is no doubt in my mind that the need for more instructors in this field of qigong is a must.

Cost: $99 for the two-day, one-night training; free for firefighters and veterans.

Open to the public. The Qi Revolution seminar will be held from September 16 to 18 in Virginia Beach. To learn more, call 800-298-8970 or visit QiRevolution.com.

See ad, page 3. natural awakenings August 2016

23

Photos this page courtesy of Yulia Mikhalchuk

inspiration

Ayahuasca: A Hero’s Journey

by Angela Blueskies

W

e are living in a time of global transformation. An immense change is taking place, marked by significant upheaval and chaos, and many people are finding themselves at a crossroads, questioning all that they have known. There is a growing movement that calls us to transform our way of life, from our governing systems, to our relationships with the Earth and each other, to the beliefs that guide our lives.

People want to live in more mindful and compassionate ways, and are seeking greater wellness and balance. There is a growing vision of global peace, joy, freedom and prosperity for all, and we long to shed the old ways and embrace this new vision. The reality is that as we awaken, we will encounter the conflict between the way things have been, and the new ways that we desire to create.

Navigating this conflict can be challenging. Though we want to live in a harmonious world, we carry beliefs, habits, patterns and stories that must be transformed in order to come into alignment with that vision. Gandhi said, “We but mirror the world... If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.”

24

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

No true transformation can happen without courageously facing our shadows.

This is often chaotic, as we honestly look at our conditioning, habits and patterns, our wounds and stories about who we are. We must feel the things that were too difficult to feel, and find meaningful ways to release what has kept us stuck.

This is a true hero’s journey: to create a peaceful, joyful, and prosperous world we must face the places within ourselves that are not peaceful, joyful and prosperous and transform them.

As we follow the journey of transformation, there are many beautiful traditions that offer meaningful practices and wisdom. However, it is possible to engage in spiritual practice for years and continue to long for a breakthrough that continues to elude us. Desiring transformation, and remaining stuck in the limitations of the mind, change comes slowly. Making the leap from mental understanding to embodied experience is key, and David Deida says it perfectly: “Knowing the truth is fairly useless; feeling it is profound; living it makes all the difference.” It is one thing to understand wisdom as a concept,

but to bring it into our lives, we must awaken beyond the small mind as we explore the darkest parts of ourselves with understanding and compassion, and let go of what no longer resonates.

Today, many people are making the journey to Peru to accelerate this process through working with the plant medicine Ayahuasca, which has been used in the Amazon Basin for thousands of years to expand awareness and facilitate healing. Ayahuasca opens our hearts and minds, and for a time we are free from a lifetime of conditioning. Coming into direct experience of the present moment, we understand things as they truly are.

From this awakened perspective we know ourselves and our world in a new way, and it becomes easier to see the necessary steps to make lasting change in our lives. Though the work required to make those changes is no less demanding, the pathway becomes clear.

For this expanded awareness to take root within us in a profound and lasting way, we must also release what keeps us stuck. Ayahuasca is known as la purge— the purge—for the profound cleansing process it initiates. As we purge, Ayahuasca helps us to unlock the physical, mental, emotional and energetic ties we have to our old habits and patterns. We come to understand the roots of our behaviors, including the ways we hold on to things that no longer serve us, and through purging we leave those things behind.

Through this process, it is possible to envision new choices, and to choose new thoughts, leaving us free to recreate ourselves based in a larger understanding of who we are and how we want to live our lives. As we recreate ourselves, we inevitably recreate our world in a sustainable, grounded way that honors the fullness of our vision for peace, joy, freedom and prosperity.

Angela Blueskies is a visionary musician and facilitator who carries deep understanding of the healing powers of music and the Earth. She has connected deeply with the sacred traditions in Peru, and has journeyed there for over 10 years to work with shamans and mentors. You can join her in Peru this October for The Heart of the Mother Retreat, a transformational Ayahuasca journey. For more information, visit HeartOfTheMother Retreats.com. See ad, page 33.

America’s Premier Education Forum for Traditional Chinese Medicine is back!

Well done is better than well said. ~Benjamin Franklin

natural awakenings August 2016

25

MEDICAL MARIJUANA IS LEGAL & AVAILABLE IN WASHINGTON, DC

CANN Compassionate physicians are waiting.

Schedule your appointment TODAY!

MYCANNX.COM

26

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Maid Brigade Natural Awakenings August 2016.pdf 1 6/21/2016 12:22:13 PM

Save

Consistent. Caring. Committed.

Expect More than Clean.

50

$

We know your time is valuable. Our star green cleaning team will get your home sparkling - and keep it that way!

C

M

SUMMER OFFER! $30 OFF 1st Cleaning $20 OFF 3rd Cleaning

Great eco-friendly house cleaning is all about the people.

Promo Code: NATAWA0716

Expires 11/30/16 Call: 703-822-4221 Valid for new customers scheduling regular service.

Some restrictions apply.

Please call for details.

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Trusted since 1989 A+ BBB Rating HEPA Vacuums Remove 4x Allergens & Pollen Flexible Scheduling

“I work hard ev eryday to mak e life a little easier fo r my customer s.�

-To

3 years with Mneal A. aid Brigade

703.822.4221 maidbrigade.com

Trained

Certified

Uniformed

Insured

www.CBDRevolutionUS.com~Katherine~202-730-9443

Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.

But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. ~Fred Rogers natural awakenings August 2016

27

WANT TO CONNECT WITH OUR READERS?

healthykids

THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL CALENDAR AND MARKETING PLANNER

The Yoga Issue plus: Healing Music

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Yoga Classes/ Equipment & Healing Music

O C T

S E P T

Chiropractic

plus: Game Changers

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Chiropractors & Community Activists Organizations

YAY FOR

PLAY

Ways to Spark a Child’s Creativity

by April Thompson

Mental Wellness

plus: Beauty Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Mental Health & Beauty

N O V

Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at:

202-505-4835 or email Robin@ NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

28

drop in original thinking that happens as students move into early adolescence,” reports Daniel Pink, author of A Whole New Mind.

Creativity isn’t only child’s play; parents also could do well to infuse their own lives with its discoveries and delights. “Through creativity, parents can reawaken a sense of wonder and joy, and nurture characteristics like patience,” says Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way for Parents: Raising Creative Children.

Washington, D.C.

W

hether it’s playing dress-up, making forts from sofa cushions or drawing pictures, creative moments can define and distinguish a happy childhood. Yet it’s not all just fun and games, according to experts. Childhood creativity, nurtured both in the classroom and at home, is crucial for developing qualities such as sound decision-making, flexible thinking and mental resiliency.

Analyzing more than 150 studies across the fields of psychology, neuroscience, education and business management, the Center for Childhood Creativity, in Sausalito, California, found many important life skills are affiliated with a creative upbringing.

The resulting white paper, Inspiring a Generation to Create, underscores that rather than simply being an innate trait, creativity can be taught.

“Creativity should be an integral part of every child’s education. The research shows that we can avoid the

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Engaging Parents

Cameron wrote the book in part to guide her own daughter, actress and film director Domenica Cameron-Scorsese, in her creative journey through motherhood.

While many such works focus on art projects for kids, Cameron’s book emphasizes activities that put creative fuel in the parental tank. For example, she recommends parents take up the ritual of “morning pages”; writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness thoughts the first thing each morning.

Jean Van’t Hul, author of The Artful Parent, started a daily sketchbook practice for herself and to set an example for her kids. “I like that the kids see me creating regularly and they’ve joined in a couple times. I also want to get over my self-limited belief that I’m not a good artist,” remarks Van’t Hul, who blogs at ArtfulParent.com.

Engaging Kids

A family ritual, like a bedtime story or relationship with a pet, can be re-imagined to inspire household members to co-create together. “Instead of always reading to my kids, we take turns making up stories by ‘giving’ each other three things, like an airplane, a shovel and a pair of pants, which we have to use in a story,” says Nicole Corey Rada, a working mother of two in Richmond, Virginia. “Sometimes, we pretend our pets are having conversations, and use different voices and accents to express what they might be saying, given their

Every child and parent is creative. Exercising our creativity is an act of faith. ~ Julia Cameron circumstance at the time. This is a family favorite; we laugh constantly.”

Mark Runco, Ph.D., a University of Georgia professor of gifted and creative education, founder of the Creativity Research Journal and advisor to the Center for Childhood Creativity, notes the importance of balancing unstructured and structured activities, creating space for both individual expression and creative collaboration.

To foster the former, Van’t Hul encourages “strewing”, which she refers to as “the art of casually yet strategically leaving invitations for learning and creativity out for kids to discover on their own.” Invitations to play could be a basket of non-toxic blocks, a recycled-paper sketchpad opened to a blank page or some nature finds from a walk in the woods.

As an example of the latter, Cameron suggests that parents lead kids on a weekly creative expedition, allowing the kids to choose a new place to aimlessly explore such as a park, bookstore, pet shop or museum. According to the author, that sense of shared adventure, fostered in a safe space, naturally nurtures the creative process, both for now and the future.

“If you make art the center, insisting that kids be creative, they may feel a sense of pressure,” advises Cameron.

“If you make inspiration the center, it spills over into art.”

DC VegFest is 15,000 people strong & growing!

WHEN: Saturday, September 24, 2016 from 11 am to 6 pm WHERE: Yards Park across from Nationals Stadium (intersection of N St. and 1st St. SE) METRO: One block from the Navy Yard Metro station FREE admission • free food samples • dynamic speakers • cooking demonstrations • kids’ activities • speakers • barking lot for dogs • beer garden • live music • and so much more!

#DCVegFest16 @DCVegFest

/DCVegFest

@DCVegFest

Learn more at DCVegFest.com

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com. natural awakenings August 2016

29

fitbody

JUST WALK 22 Minutes a Day Boosts Well-Being

by Randy Kambic

E

ven mainstream media have picked up on the many physical and mental benefits of walking, including weight loss, reduced stress, increased energy and better sleep, and that’s only the beginning. These additional compelling effects may well catalyze us to consistently step out for a daily walk, understanding that cumulative steps count, too. For more inspiration, check out this month’s race walking at the Summer Olympics.

Walking helps heart health and diabetes. According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Call to Action on Walking program launched last fall, the risk of heart disease and diabetes can be significantly reduced via an average of 22 minutes a day of brisk walking. “Physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and even depression,” says Dr. JoAnn Manson, chief of the division of preventive medicine at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “Can you imagine if there was a pill that could simultaneously have all those benefits? Everyone would be clamoring for it.”

Walking reduces anxiety and clears thinking. The results of a national survey of nearly 3,000 women between 30

Washington, D.C.

the ages of 42 and 52 published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that those that walked as part of a regular physical activity showed fewer signs of depression compared with inactive women. The more physical activity a woman logged, the less likely she was to exhibit such symptoms, suggesting that moderateto-intense levels of exercise may help protect against mental illness. The survey further revealed that 85 percent believe walking helps reduce any present anxiety and feelings of depression, while two-thirds reported that walking stimulates their thinking.

Walking facilitates doctor-patient communication. Columbus, Ohio-based Walk with a Doc (WalkWithADoc.org) helps organize free walking events each month via 230 chapters nationwide.

They’re led by physicians and other healthcare authorities. “It’s a casual forum in which to communicate and also learn about the health benefits of walking,” says Executive Director Rachael Habash, who’s aiming for 350 chapters by year’s end. When doctors emphasize the benefits of exercise, patients tend to listen.

Walking boosts life performance.

“Until the late 1960s, 90 percent of America’s children that lived up to a

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

The moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow. ~Henry David Thoreau

mile away walked to school. Today, that figure is 30 percent,” says Sheila Franklin, of the National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity, in The Walking Revolution documentary (scroll to the video at EveryBodyWalk.org). Experts warn that less walking by youngsters can create sedentary habits and lead to shortened life spans.

Daily walks to school boost cognitive performance in students, according to Mary Pat King, the National Parent Teacher Association director of programs and projects. Dr. Richard Jackson, a pediatrician, professor and chair of Environmental Health Sciences at the School of Public Health at University of California, Los Angeles,. and former environmental health director at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, reports that walking improves children’s learning ability, concentration, moods and creativity.

Even lifelong walkers are moved to walk more by using a pedometer to track their steps and distance traveled, says Dr. Lauren Elson, a physical medicine and rehabilitation instructor at Harvard Medical School, who is also the medical editor of the recent Harvard Special Health Report Walking for Health (Health.Harvard.edu/walk). A metareview of 26 studies found that using the device raised physical activity levels by nearly 27 percent, adding about 2,500 steps per day. Most stores that sell exercise equipment offer inexpensive pedometers, while smartphone users can download an app such as Moves, Breeze or Pedometer++. Apple’s iOS includes the free app Health.

Walking leads to meaningful exchanges. Social connections and honest conversations between two people can be aided by walking outside instead of sitting inside. Clay Cockrell, a licensed clinical social worker in New York City, began walking with clients 12 years ago. He notes that casual venues like parks have been especially helpful for

men. “They sometimes have a more difficult time making eye contact in sessions. Outside, they are looking where they are going, looking at nature, other people—the pressure is less. My own health has improved, as well,” he says.

He shares ideas with the public and other therapists at WalkAndTalk.com to maximize the benefits. He sees moving the body forward along a path as a metaphor for moving forward in life.

Adds Habash, “We believe that engaging in health should be simple and fun, like putting one foot in front of the other at every opportunity.”

Randy Kambic is an Estero, FL, freelance writer and editor who regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings.

The purpose of life is a life of purpose. ~Robert Byrne

There is a fountain

of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love.

When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age. ~Sophia Loren

natural awakenings August 2016

31

consciouseating

A GOOD FOOD FIGHT Keeping Food Out of the Trash Bin

by April Thompson

A

s much as 40 percent of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, even as one in six Americans goes hungry.

Instead of feeding people better, we are feeding the city dump. Of all types of trash, food consumes the most space in our municipal landfills, followed by plastic and paper. Rotting food then releases harmful methane, a greenhouse gas 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

While food waste is a big problem, social entrepreneurs see a big opportunity. Around the country, they are working to reduce, recover and rethink discarded food valued at more than $160 billion a year. In the process, they are not only cutting food costs, but also creating jobs and fighting climate change.

University of Maryland College Park alumna Cam Pascual co-founded the nonprofit Food Recovery Network (FRN) after watching hundreds of pounds of food hit the trash in her campus dining hall every night. Pascual and her colleagues mobilized a volunteer network to shuttle leftovers from the university to soup kitchens, donating 200 meals a night to feed the hungry.

In the last five years, FRN has recovered more than 1 million pounds of food from 184 campuses in 42 states, proving that ingenuity and philanthropy can together fight the food waste travesty. “There are two major barriers to recovering leftover food; one is awareness, like helping businesses to understand the laws that protect them from liability,” says Pascual, the organization’s current director of innovation and operations. “The other is the labor involved. Universities are the perfect ecosystem for food recovery because college students have flexible schedules and are community service-minded, offering a ready supply of volunteers.”

32

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Food waste reduction can be engineered in ways less noticeable to consumers, such as doing away with dining hall trays or using smaller plates. ~Cam Pascual

The latest FRN initiative is a certification program to verify that farms and restaurants are engaging in food recovery that includes creating a toolkit to help restaurants safely recover leftover meals.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture recently set a goal of slashing food waste in half by 2030, with several supporting bills approaching the floor in Congress. The EPA food recovery hierarchy calls for reducing food waste first and foremost, with recovering food to feed people or animals as a fallback and utilizing landfills only as a last resort.

“It’s one thing to set goals, but to realize those reductions in food waste, we have to change our behavior,” says Jonathan Bloom, author of American Wasteland: How America Throws Away Nearly Half of Its Food (and What We Can Do About It). Farms and households are the two largest generators of food waste, according to Bloom, whose blog at WastedFood.com offers dozens of beneficial tips for keeping food out of the trash bin.

Fighting food waste starts before we go to the grocery.

Bloom recommends consumers organize cupboards to know what’s already in stock, plan meals and stick to the shopping list.

Post-purchase, easy tips include serving smaller portions, freezing leftovers and sharing surplus with friends and neighbors.

Bloom’s website fans contribute more ideas like mixing veggie scraps into pet food or making them into soup stock.

Using a smaller refrigerator keeps shoppers from bulking up while saving energy costs. The battle against wasted food needs to start at home, where small steps add up to big change.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

Creativity is

allowing yourself to make mistakes.

Art is knowing which ones to keep. ~Scott Adams

natural awakenings August 2016

33

naturalpet

CHANGE TO BE YOUR BEST, STOP SETTLING!

When conventional methods fail you...

When you have enough of suffering...

When you want to feel better...suffer less... reduce physical or emotional pain... be more successful... lose excess weight... have a healthy body... stop using tobacco and alcohol... change bad habits.

Hypnosis is your best alternative for positive change.

Donald Pelles, PhD Certified Hypnotherapist

Call 301 618 9801 for Appointment www.HypnosisSilverSpring.com

If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.

HANDLE WILD THINGS WITH CARE How to Safely Help Hurt Animals

by Sandra Murphy

W

hen encountering a bird or animal that appears to be abandoned, take only minimal steps to help. “People mean well but a lot of rescues we see, didn’t need help,” says Lacy Campbell, wildlife care center operations manager for the Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon.

Make sure the animal is away from traffic or predators, and then call a local wildlife rehabilitator before taking further action, especially if the animal is injured.

Vulnerable Little Ones

Contact us today for limited, one-time ad rates.

202-505-4835 34

Washington, D.C.

Baby squirrels can fall out of the nest.

“Leave him at the base of the tree,” says Jennifer Keats Curtis, author of the children’s book Squirrel Rescue. “Mom will rebuild the nest before coming to get her baby. If it’s cold, put it in a box with a towel. Once squirrels have been treated as a pet, they can’t be released.”

Tiny, not-yet-feathered nestlings should be returned home; it’s a myth that human scent poses a problem.

If the nest is out of reach or can’t be located, make one with a box and soft cloth. Put it in the tree, so the parents can resume feeding. Leave the area so as not to frighten them.

“After young robins, scrub jays, crows and owls leave the nest, they

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

typically spend up to a week on the ground before they can fly,” says Campbell. “At night, the parents will escort the fully feathered fledglings to safety beneath a bush.”

In parks, ducks and geese may nest away from the water. Mama will lead her babies to the pond, even across busy streets. If it’s safe, stop the car to halt traffic, act as their crossing guard, and then resume driving.

A box turtle operates on innate GPS. “It lives in an area the size of a football field,” explains Curtis. “It will go onward, no matter how many times people try to redirect it. If injured by a car or lawn mower, the shell can be mended by a rehab center.”

Bunnies eat at dusk and dawn. Inbetween, the nest may look abandoned.

“Wild baby rabbits are difficult to keep alive if injured,” says Curtis. “At sundown, see if mom returns; if not, they need a wildlife rehab expert.”

A lone, young raccoon is either old enough to climb a tree by itself or the mother will carry it. If we feed a raccoon, it will become a beggar.

Opossums are dramatic actors. When cornered, they hiss and fall over and play dead in a coma-like state for up to four hours. Check back later. If a mother possum has been killed by a

The best outcome for injured animals is rescue, rehabilitation and return to the wild. car, call a rehab official to check her pouch for potential babies.

“If you find a young deer fawn or moose calf, leave it. The mother comes back several times each day to nurse,” advises Amanda Nicholson, director of outreach for the Wildlife Center of Virginia, in Waynesboro. “Its coloring helps it remain undetected by predators.”

Other Unexpected Encounters “Don’t feed wild animals or leave out food or accessible comestible trash.

Bobcats, wolves, bears and coyotes will avoid people unless food is involved,” cautions Jennifer Place, program associate for Born Free USA, a nonprofit in Washington, D.C. “Wild animals protect their space, food and young, so stay on marked trails when hiking and never turn your back on them.”

For unexpected meetings, stay calm. “Make sure there’s an escape route for the animal,” says Place. “With foxes or coyotes, throw sticks or small rocks, but don’t hit the animal. Make yourself look large and yell.” With snakes, sidestep away slowly for more than six feet before walking in the other direction. Bears require a different response. “Speak in a low voice so the bear realizes you are not prey. Never climb a tree,” says Place. “Bears know the terrain, can run faster than a horse and can climb trees, too. Sidestep away, remaining carefully upright, calm and unthreatening. If the bear moves toward you, keep talking until he moves away.

Running kicks in its prey drive.”

Yellowstone Park regulations require visitors to stay 25 yards away from most wildlife and 100 yards away from bears and wolves. Selfie photos with animals can result in injury or death for humans and animals through carelessness; safety depends on good judgement, respect and common sense.

Friends of wildlife know beforehand how to contact local rehabilitators if there’s an emergency, observe before taking action, and protect pets. “Always

Wildlife Transport Tips If a wild animal is injured, wear heavy gloves in its vicinity to avoid being bitten or scratched. Completely cover the animal with a blanket so it stays relatively calm, and place it in a carrier for transport to a rehabilitation facility. A warm hot water bottle can help ward off shock.

Do not give the animal water, milk or food. Time is of the essence to ward off dangers of stress. Wild animals can carry disease without appearing to be ill. Fleas, ticks and mites are likely, so keep injured wildlife away from pets and children. leash dogs when going into the yard at night and keep cats indoors,” says Place. “Peaceful co-existence allows for the safety of both people and animals, domestic and wild.”

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

natural awakenings August 2016

35

leadingedge

MTHFR

Gene Mutations and the Importance of Methylation

by Dr. Isabel Sharkar

W

e are in the age of increased awareness about our unique genetic makeup that can support or hinder our ability to process what we consume, as well as the environmental toxins we face on a daily basis. If there is a mutation in our genes, which is a common occurrence, our ability to fight disease and feel vibrant is compromised, as we are unable to detoxify and absorb nutrients as our amazing bodily machines were meant to do on their own. To comprehend a body’s full potential is to understand about the methylation system and realize how best to seek guidance to discover each individual’s capacity to enhance this process.

MTHFR, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, is an enzyme that adds a methyl group to folic acid or folate (vitamin B-9) to make it usable by the body. Folic acid, essential for human growth and development, encourages normal nerve and proper brain functioning and helps reduce blood levels of the amino acid, homocysteine. It is

36

Washington, D.C.

given to women who are pregnant or as a part of a prenatal vitamin to help prevent birth defects of the baby’s brain and spinal cord like Spina Bifida.

Homocysteine is a breakdown product of protein metabolism. Elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with inflammation and heart disease, strokes, increased risk of plaque formation, birth defects, difficult pregnancies and potentially an impaired ability to detoxify.

The MTHFR enzyme is important for converting homocysteine into methionine, which the body needs for proper metabolism, protein synthesis, muscle growth and glutathione creation. Glutathione is the most important master antioxidant and detoxifier of every cell in your body. It is the antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and prevents cellular damage. Regular glutathione intravenous therapy is a terrific idea for boosting your body’s ability to detoxify.

The process of methylation also involves the MTHFR enzyme, so those with a mutation may have trouble ef-

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

fectively eliminating all toxins from the body—environmental, internal, heavy metals and alcohol. With the persistent growth of environmental toxins surrounding us, keeping our methylation optimally functioning is vital for health.

Research estimates that as much as half of the population may have an MTHFR gene mutation, which leads to a highly reduced ability to convert folic acid or folate into its usable form 5-MTHF. This can cause folic acid to build up in the body and raise homocysteine levels.

Methylation is a vital metabolic process that happens in every cell and every organ of our body. It is the process of taking a methyl group from the activated form of folate 5MTHF, and applying it to countless critical functions in your body that include thinking, repairing DNA, turning genes on and off, fighting infections and getting rid of toxins. 5MTHF is also used to create neurotransmitters and immune cells, and to process hormones like estrogen.

Lingering fatigue, fogginess, anxiety, sleep issues and inability to effectively deal with alcohol and other toxins can be a result of an underlying gene mutation like the MTHFR mutation. Stress in all forms inhibits methylation. For example, when you drink alcohol, it is your liver’s job to process it using methylation and if you are deficient in nutrients or are stressed, you will experience hangover symptoms because your liver is unable to complete the methylation process effectively.

The right healthcare practitioner can take your 23andMe saliva test and evaluate the raw data by developing a report and creating an individualized supplementation protocol based on your genetic variants and conditions. The 23andMe report discusses genetic variants based on the five methylation pathway cycles: the urea, neurotransmitter, folate, methionine and the transulfuration.

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 IndigoHealthClinic.com. See ad, page 4.

yogaspotlight

The Oneness Festival Celebrating the Summer Solstice in Style

by Scarlett Salem

T

imed to align with the summer solstice, the weather did not disappoint as the sun shone bright on the third annual Oneness Festival held at Bikram Yoga Ivy City (BYIC) June 25 and 26. The festivities reciprocated giving attendees all things health, yoga and wellness that could be packed into the extra daylight. Sessions kicked off Saturday bright and early with 7:30 a.m. hot Pilates followed with back-to-back workshops all the way through Sunday with Bikram yoga, hot barre, beginner’s vinyasa, yoga sculpt, belly dancing, chair yoga and more.

“The [hot] barre is what’s killing me, it was so good and so challenging—it was creative. Other than these cramps I am having in my legs, it’s been awesome,” joked attendee Paula Gueory, who also took the Kundalini yoga and hot Pilates classes at the festival.

The instructors could sense

the positive vibrations and openmindedness of festival participants.

“The audience was receptive and I could sense that most of them would have stayed for at least another hour,” stated Kwesi Karamoko, an instructor who offered the festival’s Kemetic yoga class and who regularly teaches yoga throughout the DMV. “I think the yogic nuances and the pace resonated with them.” This experience was particularly unique for participants since very few area venues offer Kemetic yoga, along with many of the other classes offered at the festival.

The Kundalini yoga workshop instructor, Chelsea Xeron, echoed these sentiments. “At the end of the class, several of the students that were skeptical about trying Kundalini came up to me asking for the name of the meditation. Others said they felt they like they were floating on a cloud. Everyone

seemed to have a great experience.”

Local artist DJ AphrosouI, a constant festival presence, DJ-ed a dance party held Saturday night. “I love it, it’s my third year and I love bringing music and good vibrations to the people,” he enthused.

In addition to working the body, attendees worked their mind with panel discussions ranging from yoga as a healing therapy to the power of pranayama: mantra and meditation.

Yogis also lined up for henna, face painting, acupuncture and blended juices while browsing sustainable clothing vendors and clean beauty products.

“We are glad to be here. People [at the festival] are interested in making and sustaining connections,” commented Kyle Corcoran, an environmental restoration captain with MOM’s Organic Market Ivy City, located just around the corner from BYIC, who greeted festival-goers and gave away free apples, bananas and reusable grocery bags on behalf of MOM’s at the store’s vendor booth.

“We do these events because the wellness community in the DMV is large, diverse and culturally rooted, meaning to me that this population readily embraces whole, clean foods with a variety of flavor profiles, Indian, Asian, Jamaican, etc., along with a whole spectrum of other wellness approaches, Eastern and Western,” added Laura Gabriszeski of the Marylandbased Stuck on Ginger: Functional Juice Blends, who offered the company’s increasingly popular blended juices at the event. “We know that, when we attend an event like this one, we’re going to meet people who are ready to have a conversation about the health benefits of our ingredients.”

Oneness Festival founder, Vernita Parker, considered the event a success.

“It was a beautiful day. The weather was amazing. The energy was great and everyone had a wonderful time.”

For information on next year’s festival, visit OnenessFest.com. For more information about Bikram Yoga Ivy City, visit BikramYogaRiverIC.com.

Scarlett Salem covers yoga events in the greater Washington, D.C. area. natural awakenings August 2016

37

calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 MUIH Webinar: Workplace Wellness: Developing a Culture of Health – 7-8pm. This webinar will provide participants with an overview of the strategic components that drive wellness initiatives and programs in a corporate setting. Free. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel, MD. Info: Events@MUIH.edu.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5 Contacting Your Spirit Guides – 7-8:30pm. Your spirit guides are waiting to send you messages. Find out what helpful advice they have for you and if it is time to make a change in your life. See what encouragement awaits you. $40. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC.com/Psychic--SpiritualDevelopment.html.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Daylong Retreat – 9am-3:30pm. Part of the eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction class. See Ongoing Calendar for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Register: IMCW.org/Calendar/ EventId/369/e/Class-Series-Mindfulness-BasedStress-Reduction-mbsr-28-Jan-2016.

The Human Journey – 10am-4pm. Full-day workshop led by renowned integrative medicine educator Maura Singer, introduces a five-step process for navigating illness, grief and loss. $45 (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7 Psychic Dreaming Workshop – 10am-4pm. This is a beginning class to get you started with remembering and understanding your dreams. Bring three dreams or dream fragments to class. $110. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC. com/Dreams.html.

38

Washington, D.C.

Recognizing, Understanding and Removing Entities: Sacred and Rare Knowledge from the East – 10am-12pm. With Guruji Sri Yogacharya Arun Kumarji. Entities can be a sentient being or just a platelet of negative energy. In this powerful workshop, Guruji Arun will share with us how to remain free and clear of these distressing and inhibiting energetic disrupters. $75 for the Entities class, $200 for the Emotional Seed Healing workshop or $235 for both plus a catered meal at Chef Bon’s Yum Truck. Register: BonitaWoods.org. Info: 703-992-9606 or Bonita@BonitaWoods.org.

Kids Foundation Yoga Class – 11:30am-12:30pm.

Children’s classes not heated. Ages 4-9 years old. $12. Bikram Yoga Riverdale, 6202 Rhode Island Ave, Ste 200, Riverdale Park, MD. Info: Info@ BikramYogaRiveric.com or BikramYogaRiveric.com.

PeanaShakthi Emotional Seed Healing: Sacred and Rare Knowledge from the East – 1-5:30pm.

With Guruji Sri Yogacharya Arun Kumarji. Emotional Seed Healing deprograms your emotional impressions and reprograms your Emotional Seeds with higher emotions and vibrations. They are detoxified, purified and take your emotional consciousness and intelligence to greater heights. $200. Bonita Woods Wellness Institute, 140 Little Falls St, Ste 111, Falls Church, VA. Register: BonitaWoods.org. Info: 703-992-9606 or Bonita@ BonitaWoods.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10 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, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel, MD. Info: Events@ MUIH.edu.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training with The Mindfulness Center – 6-9pm. This program is perfect for the avid yoga student who wants to be-

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

come a yoga teacher or anyone that wants to deepen their personal practice. Scholarships available.

The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301-986-1090 or Roxanne@ TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 Singles Sangha – 7-10pm. A welcoming community of people who gather to experience a shared connection with others who are, by choice or by circumstance, single at this time in their lives. All varieties and ages of single people are encouraged to join. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org.

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. Info: 301986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 2-Day Tarot Immersion Workshop for Beginners – 9am-1pm. Through Aug 14. This class is for anyone that has little to no tarot knowledge.

You will be provided with your own original Rider-Waite Tarot deck and a Beginner Basics Tarot workbook. You will have eight hours of training. $130. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC.com/Spiritual-Tools.html.

“plant-vs-implants”

formula for breasts you never thought possible the best without surgery or setbacks! Implants are a kept ticking time-bomb, while fat transfer secret re-absorbs 40-60%, both needlessly injurious in light of the dramatic, perennial results that can be organically achieved with Natural Woman®. Renders all other formulas unwholesome and obsolete.

BeautyVantage.com

Brochure: 1-800-967-2177

Start Permaculture Design Certificate Course – 9am-5pm. Through Aug 15. Also Sept 3-5 and Oct 8-10. Introduction to permaculture principles, applications and design practices by Eric Kelly. Composting, natural building, small crop production and much more. $720. Centro Ashé Farm, 1620 Chester Ave, Bryans Road, MD. Info: CentroAshe.org.

Pranayama Breathwork – 12-2pm. The practice of pranayama leads to improved health, emotional state and quality of life. Learn pranayama to cultivate optimal well-being. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter@gmail.com.

Cooking in the Inspired Kitchen – 1-4pm.

Hands-on cooking class demonstrating simple vegetarian meals with health and healing. $20 (suggested donation). Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Yoga for Balance – 2-4pm. Tune- up and balance the entire glandular system with Kundalini yoga.

Learn the principle elements of the body through movement, meditation and breath. Open to all levels. Love Grow Yoga Studio, 124 Bay Ave, North Beach, MD. Register: LoveGrowYoga.com. Info: 443-646-5701 or Info@LoveGrowYoga.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14 Sunday Afternoon with Spiritual Intuitive – 2-4pm. With Annemarie Heckert. Join Annemarie as she introduces you to your guardian angels.

Who they are, how they assist you, how you assist them and when you should ask for your angel’s

of the well endowed

help. Many participants will receive brief readings. $20. Illuminate Frederick, Unity in Frederick, 1 West 9th St, Frederick, MD. Info: 575-519-5883 or IlluminateFrederick.com.

Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixHC.com/Spiritual-Tools.html.

Children’s Sangha – 4:15-5:30pm. For 5-12-year-olds, accompanied by parents. The class provides young children with a Buddhist framework to explore their inner life, understand the causes of emotional stress and develop peace, wisdom and kindness. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Info: Living-Mindfully.org.

Foraging and Wildcrafting Food, Medicine, Herbs - 9am-4:30pm. Practical class by Eric Kelly identifying wild plants, foraging basics for food and medicine, processing for safety, flavor and digestion and more. $55. Centro Ashé Farm, 1620 Chester Ave, Bryans Road, MD. Info: CentroAshe.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 Weekend Meditation Retreat (Advanced Meditation Seminar M200 - 8hrs) – 6:30-9:30pm. Through Aug 20. 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. Info: 301-986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 Growing Herbs for Medicine and for Sale – 9:30am-3:30pm. Tour on medicinal plant farm and their processing facility used to produce teas, including the nation’s first solar thermal herb dryer. $55. Habanera Farm, 2916 Whitehaven Rd, Tyaskin, MD. Info: CentroAshe.org.

Beginner Intuitive Pendulum – 10am-12pm. In this class we will explore why and how the pendulum works as a tool for inner knowing and learn multiple practical ways for use. $40. Rising Phoenix Holistic

SUNDAY, AUGUST 21

Usui Reiki Certification Level I – 10am-4pm.

Enhance your level of energy nutrition by channeling life force energy into your own body from the unlimited universal energy source. $120. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: http://www.Rising Phoenixhc.com/Energy-Healing.html.

Young Adult Cancer Meet Up and Support Group – 5-6:30pm. Enjoy a light dinner and facilitated group session. Free. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

MONDAY, AUGUST 22 Laughter Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. 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, AUGUST 23 Moving Dialogues: Healing with Contradiction

natural awakenings August 2016

39

Dance – 6:30-8pm. Explore and share personal beliefs and experiences through writing, dance and discussion in mutually supportive and respectful environment, no dance experience needed. $15 (suggested donation).

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

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25 Movie Night – Neck Back and Beyond is taking a summer break this month. Please join us on the last Thursday of September for our next Movie Night.

Neck, Back and Beyond, 10560 Main St, PH 1, Fairfax, VA. Info: NeckBackandBeyond.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26 Sound Medicine Journey Through the Chakras – 7:30-9pm. Guided by a lush array of instruments and the voice, participants will visit each of the chakras as they are bathed in the nourishing vibrations of music, mantra and sacred healing songs. $25/advance or $30/door. East Meets West Yoga, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Info: AngelaBlueskies.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 RPHC Second Birthday – 10am-4pm. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center is turning two. Join us to celebrate and enjoy free talks, readings, gift shop sales and more. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Info: RisingPhoenixHC@ gmail.com or RisingPhoenixHC.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 Seichim Level One – 10am-4pm. Seichim (SayKeem) is an ancient Egyptian system of healing energy and wisdom. It is made up of seven initiations, corresponding to the seven chakras. $150. Rising Phoenix Holistic Center, 9028 D Prince William St, Manassas, VA. Register: RisingPhoenixhc.com/Energy-Healing. html. Info: RisingPhoenixhc@gmail.com.

Yoga Nidra – 6-7pm. Yoga Nidra is a great way to experience deep relaxation. One hour of this powerful meditative yogic sleep practice is worth four hours of sleep. Take a moment to step out of the busy-ness of your life for an effortless practice.

Bikram Yoga Riverdale, 6202 Rhode Island Ave, Ste 200, Riverdale Park, MD. Info: Info@Bikram YogaRiverIC.com or BikramYogaRiverIC.com.

plan ahead

40

Washington, D.C.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

savethedate Sacred Munay-Ki Initiation An Intensive Weekend

Receive all nine Rites of the Munay-Ki, inspired by the shamanic healing rites of the high Andes Mountains of Peru. Participants must attend all three days to complete the initiation.

Fri., Sept. 2–6 to 9pm Sat., Sept 3–10am to 5pm Sun., Sept 4–12 to 6pm

$375. East Meets West Yoga, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Register: AngelaBlueskies.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Gong Medicine Journey – 7pm. Through the intense vibrations of the sound, the body and mind are able to relax and surrender to the healing energies of the gong and as the waves of sound wash over participants, a deep energetic clearing occurs, leaving the participant feeling balanced, peaceful and light. $20.

Nourishing Journey, 10440 Shaker Dr, Ste 105, Columbia, MD. Register: AngelaBlueskies.com.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Laughter Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. 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.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Sound Medicine Journey Through the Chakras – 7:30-9pm. Guided by a lush array of instruments and the voice, participants will visit each of the chakras as they are bathed in the nourishing vibrations of music, mantra and sacred healing songs. $25/advance or $30/door. East Meets West Yoga, 8227 Old Courthouse Rd, Ste 310, Vienna, VA. Info: AngelaBlueskies.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 The Power of Healing Sound: A Sound Medicine Workshop for Yoga Teachers and Healing Arts Practitioners – 1-4pm. This workshop introduces

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

core principles and practices in working with sacred sound and sound healing, as well as hands-on exploration of powerful Sound Healing tools and is open to all yoga practitioners and teachers, as well as anyone with an interest in exploring Sound Healing for personal or professional reasons. $45/advance or $60/door. The Studio DC, 1710 Connecticut Ave, NW, Dupont. Info: AngelaBlueskies.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Spread Joy in a Weary World – 6-9pm. Through Sept 25. 10th YogaLaughs Certified Laughter Yoga Training and Retreat. A weekend like no other. Laugh, learn, connect and deeply relax in a beautiful setting. YogaLaughs at Bridge Between the Worlds Retreat Center, Keswick, VA. Info: Leigh@YogaLaughs.com or YogaLaughs.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Chesapeake Herb Gathering – 8:30am-10pm.

Through Sept 25 at 3pm, Weekend-long, familyfriendly event full of workshops, plant walks, art,social justice talks, artisans market, campfire and much more. $70 before August 1 or $95 before September 22 or $110 after (all include camping). Piscataway Indian Cultural Center, 16816 Country Ln, Waldorf, MD. Info: CentroAshe.org.

DC VegFest 2016 – 11am-6pm. DC VegFest is the largest vegetarian celebration in the nation’s capital, proudly presented by Compassion Over Killing. This free festival features special speakers, free food samples, cooking demos, more than 130 vendors, kid’s activities’ and more. Leashed dogs welcome. Free and open to the public. N St. SE and First St SE, outdoors at Yards Park (Lot H/I, across from Nationals Stadium). Info: DCVegFest.com.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 Intro to Herbal Medicine Series – 5:30-7:30pm.

Also Oct 12 and 19. Learn to make herbal home and body products that are good for your health, the earth and your budget. $75. Emergence Community Arts Collective, 733 Euclid St, NW. Info: CentroAshe.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 Herbal Medicine Making Workshop – 10am4pm. Hands-on class including plant walk, background in herbalism, folk medicine making techniques, herbal preparations. Start your own herbal medicine kit. $55. Centro Ashé Farm, 1620 Chester Ave, Bryans Road, MD. Info: CentroAshe.org.

ongoingevents

thursday

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month Early Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. See and adhere to our guidelines. Email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com for guidelines Mon for details. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. and to submit entries.

Info: Living-Mindfully.org.

sunday

tuesday

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.

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 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. $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.

Pilates Mat – 10:30am-11:30am. Small size Pilates mat format. $19. Elements ter, 2233 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 217, NW. ister: FrontDesk@ElementsCenter.com.

ElementsCenter.com.

class CenRegInfo:

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.

Women’s Community Mindfulness Class – 7:30pm. The aspiration of the Women’s Community Mindfulness Classes (WCMC) is to create a safe space where women can practice mindfulness for the development of wisdom and compassion.

We provide both guided meditation and independent practice time followed by a talk, with time for questions and comments. Beginning and experienced meditators are welcome. Chairs and cushions are provided. The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown.

Info: IMCW.org.

wednesday

Gentle Yoga – 10:15-11:30am. See Mon for details. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, 1632 U St, NW. Info: 202-483-8600 or SmithCenter.org.

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction – 7-9:30pm.

An eight-week program that assists people who want to learn to use their own internal resources to respond more skillfully to stress, medical and psychological conditions and promote healthy living. Intentional, present-moment awareness, developed through mindfulness meditation practices, helps us experience whatever is happening in our life as it unfolds.

The Center for Mindful Living, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 200, NW, Tenleytown. Register: IMCW.org/ Calendar/EventId/369/e/Class-Series-MindfulnessBased-Stress-Reduction-mbsr-28-Jan-2016.

friday EEarly 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, Learn, 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.

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.

saturday

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.

Mind-Body Yoga, Level 2 – 9am. Deepen the Mind-Body connection through mindful movements. Release tension, improve blood-flow and strengthen muscles. $20. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda, MD. Info: 301986-1090 or TheMindfulnessCenter@gmail.com.

Gentle Yoga – 6-7pm. 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.

Introduction to the Transcendental Meditation Program: The Technique for Inner Peace and Wellness – 6:30pm. The TM technique is easy to learn, enjoyable to practice and cultural neutral. It takes 20 minutes twice daily, reduces stress and cultivates transcendence. Bethesda Transcendental Meditation Center, 11300 Rockville Pike, Ste 408, Rockville, MD. Register: TM.org/Bethesda.

Introduction to the Transcendental Meditation Program: The Technique for Inner Peace and Wellness – 12:30-2pm. This introduction to the TM technique explains why it is easy to learn and enjoyable to practice. TM effectively reduces stress and anxiety and cultivates transcendence. Bethesda Transcendental Meditation Center, 11300 Rockville Pike, Ste 408, Rockville, MD. Register: TM.org/Bethesda.

The Mystical I – 7-9pm. Exploration of the book The Mystical I by Joel Goldsmith. Emphasis on attaining, maintaining, and living spiritual consciousness. Love offering. Unity of Fairfax, 2854 Hunter Mill Rd, Oakton, VA. Register: Goo.gl/ Forms/SLvG9weMMcXRTjGd2. Info: UnityOf Fairfax.org.

natural awakenings August 2016

41

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

.

AROMATHERAPY

MOTHER NATURE’S STORE

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 24.

703-851-0087 Laina_Poulakos@hotmail.com MothersNatureStore.com

C e r t i f i e d 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 14.

BEDROOM FURNITURE

SHAWNA SNYDER

Rose Wellness Center 2944 Hunter Mill Rd, Ste 101, Oakton, VA 571-529-6699 Info@RoseWellness.com RoseWellness.com Shawna Snyder is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain management. She effectively relieves pain by custom tailoring a comprehensive treatment plan to achieve optimal results. See ad, page 10.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE NOVA CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

4635 Chain Bridge Rd, Ste 100, McLean, VA 703-229-3106 NOVAAlternativeMed.com Our holistic approach gets to the nexus of your pain and treats your pain’s cause, not just your symptoms. Dr. Craig Sanford’s approach and treatment will greatly improve your quality of life. Specializing in peripheral neuropathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutrition, physical therapy and functional medicine. See ad, page 11.

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 9.

BOTANICAL GARDENS MEADOWLARK BOTANICAL GARDENS 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 703-255-3631 KTomlinson@Nvrpa.org • Nvrpa.org

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, a public garden for all the senses, a place of peace and reflection.

Near Wolf Trap in Vienna.

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 27.

42

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

CHIROPRACTOR ASHDALE CHIROPRACTIC AND PHYSICAL THERAPY

Dr. Craig Sanford, DC 12801 Darby Brooke Ct, Ste 120, Woodbridge, VA 703-583-1222 • AshdaleChiropractic.com Ashdale Chiropractic and Physical Therapy offers chiropractic care, acupuncture, peripheral neuropathy and physical medicine. See ad, page 11.

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 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 27.

COACHING FREE YOUR VOICE

AngelaBlueskies@gmail.com AngelaBlueskies.com/Free-Your-Voice Yoga of voice workshops and private coaching that offers a refreshing perspective for people who want to release personal blocks and sing from their hearts.

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY 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 35.

CONSULTING GRACE PRODUCTIONS

Grace Ogden, Principal 301-445-6771 • GraceProductions.co Grace Ogden leads this consulting and event production firm that supports progressive social change with an awareness of why spiritual principles and practices matter.

See ad, page 20.

EDUCATION BONITA WOODS WELLNESS INSTITUTE 140 Little Falls St, Ste 105, 110, 111, Falls Church, VA 703-992-9606 • BonitaWoods.org

BWWI promotes mind-bodyspirit wellness education and personal health evolution. Holistic medical, nutritional and spiritual counselors offer private sessions, workshops and classes. See ad, page 32.

GARDENING PRIOR UNITY GARDEN

Fairfax, VA 703-281-7743 Gardeners@PriorUnityGarden.com PriorUnityGarden.com From containers to whole home-sites we help you create organic, abundant and beautiful gardens. Classes, courses, workshops, presentations, consultations, coaching, designs, installations, maintenance, work-study, products. See ad, page 9.

GROCERY GLUTEN-FREE/VEGAN COUNSELING FOUR CORNERS COUNSELING, LLC Hetty Irmer, LCSW-C, The Thinking Woman’s Counselor 10000 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD 301-960-8960 HettyIrmer.com

Tap into your deeper wisdom and sense of purpose. Understand your moods and manage them better.

Hetty works with women, couples and offers groups to learn and practice skills of self-understanding and leadership. See ad, page 29.

DENTISTRY-CERAMIC IMPLANTS MILES OF SMILES IMPLANT DENTISTRY

801 Wayne Ave, Ste G200, Silver Spring, MD 301-588-0768 PureImplants@MilesOfSmilesDental.net Our integrative approach addresses your body’s readiness for dental implants, we systematically test and optimize your immune system prior to implant placement. With 18 years’ experience in implant dentistry, Dr Noumbissi developed the Natural and Keramik Koncept, a safe protocol for teeth replacement with metal free ceramic implants coupled with naturally optimized and accelerated bone and gum healing to enhance your smile and improve your quality of life. See ad, page 10.

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 14.

HOLISTIC HEALTH COUNSELING GREEN GLOW GIRL

Sara McCoy Integrative Nutrition Health Coach GreenGlowGirl@gmail.com Providing one-on-one coaching to feeling inner vibrancy and awareness through healthy eating and self-care. See ad, page 24.

HOLISTIC PARENTING HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK ARLINGTON/ALEXANDRIA CHAPTER

BONITA WOODS WELLNESS INSTITUTE

HolisticMomsArlAlex@gmail.com HolisticMomsArlAlex.blogspot.com

BWWI promotes mindbody-spirit wellness education and personal health evolution. Holistic medical, nutritional and spiritual counselors offer private sessions, workshops and classes. See ad, page 32.

National nonprofit organization supporting parents in their natural lifestyle choices. Local chapters: Arlington/Alexandria, Burke/Springfield, Loudoun, NoVA/Fairfax, Montgomery County and Harford County. National: HolisticMoms.org. Local: Bit.ly/1rHHgaT.

140 Little Falls St, Ste 105, 110, 111, Falls Church, VA 703-992-9606 • BonitaWoods.org

HEALTHY PETS WHOLE PET CENTRAL

Info@WholePetCentral.com WholePetCentral.com 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 16.

MINDFUL HEALTHY LIFE

571-358-8645 Jessica@MindfulHealthyLife.com MindfulHealthyLife.com Online lifestyle magazine for DC-area naturalminded families. Event calendar, resource directory, blog. News, events, giveaways, profiles, tips for holistic healthy living and mindful parenting.

MindfulHealthyLife.com.

natural awakenings August 2016

43

HOLISTIC PROMOTIONS EARTHLIGHT PROMOTIONS 703-401-9663 BeverlyNickerson@comcast.net EarthLightPromotions.com

Bringing back the indigenous wisdom to our modern world. Organizing sacred retreat, reconnect with nature and sacred sites travel. Promoting holistic healers, traditional ancient medicine and wellness workshops. See ad, page 16.

HOMEOPATHY 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 10.

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 10.

Class is more important than a game. ~Pat Summitt

44

Washington, D.C.

SUSHMA HIRANI, MD

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 and emphasizes nutrition, 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 10.

INTEGRATIVE NUTRITIONIST 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. See ad, page 10.

MEDICAL BARNARD MEDICAL CENTER

INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC 1010 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 660, DC 202-298-9131 IndigoHealthClinic.com

The body has an innate ability to heal itself and achieve balance from everyday stressors through non-toxic, non-aggressive and highly effective modalities. See ad, page 4.

OPTIMAL HEALTH DIMENSIONS 703-359-9300 ContactLHZ@OHDDrz.com OptimalHealthDimensions.com

We offer integrative medicine led by Dr. Leila H Zackrison, M.D. Along with offering modern medicine and technologies, we offer time tested, powerful profound healing techniques developed centuries ago.

This is what makes us uniquely effective in the ever-expanding region of health care.

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 10.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

5100 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 401, NW 202-527-7500 BarnardMedical.org

The Barnard Medical Center partners medical care with the latest advances in prevention and nutrition to create a healthcare plan designed just for you. If you need to treat and reverse diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, we will help you revolutionize your health. Better eating habits are often the key to better health. See ad, page 2. .

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

CANNX

800-462-0715 MyCannX.com Providing safe, legal and affordable access to medical marijuana for D.C. residents suffering from chronic illnesses. Schedule an appointment today. See ad, page 26.

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 35.

POLARITY THERAPY NECK BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

Janice M Johnson 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.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 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 17.

SACRED RETREATS

SHIATSU THERAPIST NECK, BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

Natalie Depastas 10560 Main St, Ste PH-1, Fairfax, VA 703-865-5690 NeckBackAndBeyond@gmail.com NeckBackAndBeyond.com Nathalie Depastas is a highly skilled acupuncturist and Shiatsu therapist with 30 years of experience in Chinese medicine, including medical qigong. See ad, page 24.

SOUND MEDICINE ANGELA BLUESKIES & SOUND MEDICINE JOURNEYS

AngelaBlueskies@gmail.com AngelaBlueskies.com/Free-Your-Voice Angela Blueskies & Sound Medicine Journeys ~ offering sacred music events, workshops and sound healing for groups and in private sessions throughout the MidAtlantic region. See ad, page 33.

SPIRITUAL LIVING UNITY OF FAIRFAX

HeartoftheMotherRetreats@gmail.com HeartoftheMotherRetreats.com

2854 Hunter Mill Rd, Oakton, VA 703-281-1767 • UnityOfFairfax.org Admin@UnityOfFairfax.org

Guiding transformational journeys in power centers around the world, including the Sacred Valley of Peru, we offer safe, supported Ayahuasca experiences combined with mindfulness practices. See ad, page 33.

At Unity of Fairfax, we offer a welcoming, safe environment to explore one’s own relationship with God in a community of likeminded individuals. See ad, page 31.

UNITY OF GAITHERSBURG

TRIBE OF BELTWAY SHAMANS

RumiWasiSanctuary@gmail.com Meetup.com/Tribe-of-Beltway-Shamans Washington, D.C.’s premier community for all those interested in shamanic practice, indigenous spirituality and Native American traditions. We offer meetups, workshops, classes and trainings.

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.

VETERINARY HOLISTIC CARE 4820 Moorland Ln, Bethesda, MD 301-656-2882 Info@VHCDoc.com VHCdoc.com

A holistic veterinary clinic focused on keeping your pet healthy by promoting quality of life while providing excellent integrative medical care in an exceptional environment. See ad, page 35 .

WOMEN’S HEALTH

BEAUTY VANTAGE, LLC

HEART OF THE MOTHER RETREATS

SHAMANIC PRACTICES

drainage and more. See ad, page 24.

111 Central Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 301-947-3626 Admin@UnityofGaithersburg.org 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.

THERMOGRAPHY NECK, BACK & BEYOND WELLNESS CENTER

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

207-338-2177 BeautyVantage@MyFairPoint.net BeautyVantage.com In spite of the widespread acceptance of cosmetic and surgical procedures, the drawbacks remain at cross purposes. Breast implants and fat transfer are needlessly injurious in light of the dramatic, perennial results that can be organically achieved with Natural Woman “plant-vs-implants” formula. Stay Natural and stand out in a plastic world! See ad, page 39.

YOGA YOGA WITH NYA

Nya@YogaWithNya.com YogaWithNya.com

yoga with

Nya Alemayhu is a yoga instructor in Washington, D.C., dedicated to building community through sharing the practice of yoga. Nya∙ private ∙ specialty offers private instruction and ∙ sunday commu workplace yoga. See ad, page 13. at Un ∙ wor

yogawit nya@yogawit washington, dc ∙ 202

Neck Back & Beyond in Fairfax, VA offers chiropractic and naturopathic care, acupuncture, massage, colon hydrotherapy (colonics), reflexology, lymphatic

natural awakenings August 2016

45

Publish Your Own Natural Awakenings Magazine

Have a Career with a Lifestyle Franchise!

22+ years of leadership in publishing has made Natural Awakenings the #1 healthy, green living magazine with 98 editions across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic ... ... and we continue to grow!

• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support and Training • No Publishing Experience Necessary

Natural Awakenings recently received the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award. Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!

To learn more, visit:

FranchiseBusinessReview.com

We are currently expanding across the U.S. and Canada. To find out more about starting your own Natural Awakenings magazine or acquiring an existing one,

visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine or call 239-530-1377 Washington, D.C. NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

46

ADV ERTO RIAL

Pamper Your Skin With Natural The Awakenings Best Nature Has To Offer Advanced Healing Skin Cream

Therapeutic Qualities

Natural Awakenings Advanced Healing Skin Cream combines botanicals and a unique blend of essential oils for a deep moisturizing therapy. It soothes and relieves dry, itchy or cracked skin quickly while restoring moisture and provides ultra-hydration protection and soothing comfort to wounds, sores, cuts and burns. Manuka Honey also relieves the pain and itch of psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Besides its potent antibacterial properties, honey is also naturally extremely acidic, and that will eliminate organisms that decides to grow there.

Our Skin Cream Contains:

{

Satisfied Customer

}

Natural Awakenings Advanced Healing Skin Cream is a wonderful product.

The skin cream goes on smooth and absorbs into the skin quickly - it is not “greasy”. I have been plagued with dry skin around my ears, belly button and scalp for over 20 years and this product

has healed those areas in just 3 days of use. The Manuka Honey that is in this product, I was told repairs damaged skin - now I am a believer!!! I continue to use this skin cream to keep my skin soft. I have to mention the product has a wonderful aroma, like peppermint, and when applying the cream one can feel a slight warming sensation and I know it is working into the pores to do it’s work!

Glad I tried this product! ~ Jim

The cold, damp winter days are upon us. Don’t let chapped or dry, flaky skin get in the way of your daily life. Natural Awakenings Advanced Healing Skin Cream, a soothing therapeutic balm made with exclusive Manuka Honey from New Zealand, is the ultimate skin moisturizer for everyone in your family. Order one for the office, too!

Restore Your Skin to Natural Youthful Beauty Hydration is a Must

The skin has a water content of 10 percent to 30 percent, which gives it a soft, smooth and flexible texture. The water comes from the atmosphere, the underlying layers of skin and perspiration. Oil produced by skin glands and fatty substances produced by skin cells act as natural moisturizers, allowing the surface to seal in water. Natural Awakenings Advanced Healing Skin Cream, applied after a shower or bath as daily maintenance, will improve the appearance of skin and heal unwanted conditions. Natural Awakenings Advanced Healing Skin Cream also combines pure botanicals and a unique blend of essential oils for a deep moisturizing therapy.

You’ll love Natural Awakenings’ therapeutic cream’s clean, fresh botanical fragrance.

Discover what our amazing skin cream can do: • Provides Ultra-Hydration of Skin • Enhances Anti-Aging and Skin Renewal • Soothes Dry, Itchy, Cracked Skin • Relieves Most Burns, Including Sunburn • Comforts Wounds and Sores MANUKA HONEY is produced by bees that pollinate New Zealand’s Manuka bush. Advocates cite its antibacterial properties.

What Is Manuka Honey?

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

4-oz jar $21.99 • 8-oz jar $39.99 + ONLY $5 for shipping Order today, available only at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore natural awakenings August 2016

47

Degrees with Meaning for Careers with Purpose Health & Wellness Coaching Graduate Programs Enrolling Fall 2016 and Spring 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 also offers graduate programs in: Health Promotion | Nutrition and Integrative Health Herbal Medicine | Yoga Therapy | Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

Online, on campus, and weekend options available No GREs required muih.edu 800-735-2968 48

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com