Jan/Feb 2009 NATURAL AWAKENINGS

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January/February 2009

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. Our mission is to provide information designed to improve readers’ quality of life physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural healing, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression, and products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

DEPARTMENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

newsbriefs

Abundance & Prosperity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Reach for the Stars

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by Shelley Riutta, MSE, LPC

healthbriefs

Valentine’s Day Every Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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Presents, or Presence?

by Diana Daffner

naturalpet

Birthing a Career As a Midwife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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by Kaitlin Earley

globalbriefs

Becoming an Acupuncture Practitioner . . . . . . 19

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by Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine

eventscalendar

Making Hypnotherapy a Career . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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by Matthew Brownstein, CHt

Curvy Or Skinny? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

resourceguide

The Perfect Fitness Plan for Your Body/Mind Type

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by David-Dorian Ross

Breathing Easy: Clean Air Indoors . . . . . . . . . . 26

by Mary Alford

The Power of Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

by Janet Slimak

New Year’s Resolutions (No Joke!) . . . . . . . . . . 29

by Jolaine Jones

Be the One Who Knows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

by Cynthia Christianson

EFT and New Year’s Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

by Sandy Wilson, EFT-ADV

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise, please call 352-629-4000 or e-mail Info@NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com.

Deadline for ads in the March/April 2009 issue is February8th.

For your convenience, our media kit, including sizes and rates, is online at www.NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com.

Design services available!

Advertisers are included online at no additional charge.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS For submission guidelines, please visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com.

E-mail articles/News Briefs to Info@NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com, or snail-mail to Box 1140, Anthony, FL 32617.

Deadline for articles to be considered for March/April 2009 issue is February 1st.

News Briefs deadline is February 8th.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS E-mail calendar listings to Info@NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com.

Deadline for calendar events in the March/April 2009 issue is February8th.

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publisherletter Redesign!

Publisher Carolyn Rose Blakeslee

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e are thrilled to introduce to you a fresh new cover design. We believe it’s time for an updated look to reflect who we have become— mainstream! Remember when the “natural” field was populated by hippies and forward-thinking people who were thought of as eccentric and weird? Not any more.

Today, the natural, holistic, alternative and integrative market is growing by leaps and bounds.

Online search-engine inquiries increased by more than 10% during 2008, and a recent New York Times story reported that one in nine children are using natural therapies from chiropractic care to homeopathy and everything in between. Doctors are jumping onto the bandwagon too, and more and more are offering integrative approaches to health care.

Natural Awakenings is your reliable source of information as the field grows. We believe health insurance companies are going to become more scarce as they become more difficult to work with, and we believe that people like us—patients, parents and other health-service consumers—are now taking a much firmer command of their health care.

People are hunting for information, learning who the providers are, and asking for word-ofmouth recommendations of practitioners who are good at what they do, provide health care without side effects, and provide it perhaps less expensively than the “traditional” medical system has in the past.

It’s an exciting time for Natural Awakenings and our readers and advertisers.

— Carolyn

Regional Editors Diane Childs Kim Marques, Calendar National Editors Sharon Bruckman S. Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Design + Production Suzzanne Fil Jim Rehrer Advertising Carolyn Rose Blakeslee Corporate + Development Larry Levine John Voell II Contact Us Natural Awakenings P.O. Box 1140 Anthony, FL 32617 352-629-4000 Fax 352-351-5474 www.NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com Info@NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com Subscriptions One-year, First Class mail subscriptions are available by sending $18 to the address above.

Natural Awakenings NCFL is published every two months. 18,000 copies are distributed to health food stores, medical offices, fitness facilities, educational and spiritual centers, public libraries, restaurants and cafes throughout North Central Florida.

Natural Awakenings does not necessarily endorse the views expressed in its articles or advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products or services contained herein. To determine whether a particular product or service is appropriate for you, consult your family physician.

Copyright ©2009 Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted if that permission has been obtained in writing.

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newsbriefs Raw Food Potluck Dinner

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tarting in January, on the third Tuesday of every month, Gentle Waters will be hosting a raw and living food potluck dinner.

The potluck is open to everyone, from the casual/curious to the seasoned raw food enthusiast. Energizing, delicious living food will be shared along with recipes, information, concerns and techniques.

Participants are asked to bring the following: a raw organic dish (with its recipe) in a quantity sufficient to serve six to eight people; utensils and a plate or bowl; and a $2 admission donation. The sponsors request that all items be re-useable, as they want to make this a zero-waste event, and on behalf of chemically sensitive people they ask that attendees not wear scents of any kind.

The potluck will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Gentle Waters Healing Center, 1215 N.W. 23rd Ave., Gainesville. Information: 352-374-7756; RSVP to marina3@ufl.edu.

Integrative Relaxation

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earn simple techniques to help release stress and its causes.

Join John Ernest Hiester, Senior Instructor/Amrit Yoga Institute, for this free Integrative Relaxation Class. Through discussion and guided experiences, you will learn effective and easy ways to begin to bring relaxation into your life. It’s so simple, this can be done sitting in a chair or lying down.

Wear loose comfortable clothing. You may wish to bring a floor mat, pillow and light blanket.

Friends and family are welcome.

The free class will be offered Thursday, January 29th and Thursday, February 26th, at Gainesville Downtown Public Library, 401 E. University Ave., 7:00-8:30 p.m. Information: jehiester@amrityoga.org.

An Introduction to Yoga Nidra

abundance. It doesn’t matter what you want to heal, become better at or transform in your life: the key that opens the door to your transformation is the relationship with yourself.

Free Guided Visualization events for relaxation, self empowerment and balance will be held on Thursday nights from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For a schedule of other ongoing classes, call Teri Perrin at 352-361-5505 or Sonya Lamarre at 352-239-3557.

The classes will take place in Ocala. Visit www.ocala hypnotherapy.com.

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oga Nidra is a conscious relaxation process that is simple to learn, yet profound in impact. Discover how to release the blockages that hold you back from living life joyously and fully.

Tap into the extraordinary powers of your own intuition, inspiration, creativity, health and abundance.

Receive direct guidance from Yogi Amrit Desai as you learn these powerful, transformative practices.

The January 10-11 (SaturdaySunday morning) workshop will be held at The Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs FL. $150 per person includes the program, lodging and meals. Register at www.amrityoga.org, e-mail info@amrityoga.org or call 352685-3001.

Guided Visualization

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ove is the answer. It starts with loving yourself and moves you to appreciate and love others.

Learn to awaken to harmonic balance with your true power; then life begins to flow in ways that bring great joy, healing and

Total Immersion Intuitive Eating

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elease your stress and guilt about food. Eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re satisfied, and deal with your emotions in ways more effective than eating.

JoLaine Jones, Certified Wellness Life Coach, guides you through this life-changing approach to food in a nurturing, supportive environment, using the book Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole, MS, RD and Elise Resch, MS, RD, FADA. TIIE meets for seven consecutive Monday evenings beginning January 12, from 7:008:30 p.m. at the facilities of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Gainesville, 4225 NW 34th Street. Or, sign up for the new teleclass version on Tuesday evenings. Save by registering early.

The early bird price is $90. After January 5, the price will be $115.

Register at www.genuineyou.org, call 352-338-8385, or e-mail jolaine@genuineyou.org.

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newsbriefs New Book: Tantra for Busy Couples

Traditional Thai Massage Certification Program

ichard and Diana Daffner, M.A., leaders of Intimacy Retreats for couples, announce the release of their book, Tantric Sex for Busy Couples: How to Deepen Your Passion in Just Ten Minutes a Day. It will be available at bookstores, online, and at the Daffners’ workshops.

Many couples, too busy with the activities of life, are challenged to find time to keep intimacy alive and to successfully fulfill the inborn yearning for love, affection and passion.

The book presents some of the teachings and practices from the Daffners’ workshops that they have now shared with thousands of others, including many readers of Natural Awakenings. Written in a personal, easy-to-follow style, the book gives both male and female views on how to keep intimacy alive in a relationship. It shows how sexual energy can be nurtured to induce emotional closeness as well as a spiritual experience of bliss and joy.

In January, the Daffners will lead Intimacy Retreats in Sarasota and in Mexico. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, workshops are offered in February in Siesta Key, Tampa, and Ft. Lauderdale.

Details, and autographed copies of the book at a reduced price, are available at www.IntimacyRetreats.com or by calling 941-349-6804 (877-2824244).

he Florida School of Massage is now offering a 90-hour acredited five-level workshop in Thai Massage. The workshop will be taught by Ariela Grodner,a local instructor who offers trainings nationwide and in India.

For more information, visit www.arielasthaimassage.com.

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Introduction to The Big Grid

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harron Britton, proprietor of the High Springs Emporium, has developed a new modality of crystal-energy work, The Big Grid.

Clients will receive an individual consultation with Sharron, who has more than 30 years’ experience working with stones and crystals, and guidance to select the stones to be used during the session. Each client will relax within a grid of large Earth Keeper crystals from the Lemurian Mine in Brazil.

Fran Oppenheimer, RN, LMT, esoteric healer, will be working with Sharron to release old patterns and promote positive growth and healing. T he Big Grid healing will be unveiled January 17 from 1-4 p.m. at the High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd., High Springs, 386-454-8657.

Valentine’s Day Celebration

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he High Springs Emporium will be hosting a mini affair to add sparkle and clarity to your love life, Saturday, February 14, 12 - 5 pm.

All romantic stones and jewelry will be 20% off. Get some inspiration with a reading from Mary Alice Warren, Shenna Benarte, and/or Donna “Lady Tara.”

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage with Fran Oppenheimer, RN, LMT, and/or Janet Idoyaga, LMT, RMT. All readings and massages will be 15 minutes for $20. Stones of Love will be on sale.

The event will happen at the High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd., High Springs, 386454-8657.

Becoming a Certified Hypnotherapist: A Career in Health and Happiness

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he Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy (FIH) begins its next 410-hour training program in clinical hypnotherapy on March 6th. FIH offers a comprehensive training program to become a professional certified clinical hypnotherapist.

The school is licensed by the Florida Department of Education and is also approved by the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners, meeting and far exceeding the ACHE’s standards.

See our free lecture schedule and free class listings in the

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newsbriefs Calendar of Events and our ad in this issue. To learn about a truly wonderful career call 352-3785746 or visit www.tfioh.com for more information.

EFT Tapping Circle

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FT Practitioner Carla Burkle invites you to join her at the facilities of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Classroom 4 for “Tapping the Void: an EFT Tapping Circle.”

Carla says, “’Tapping the Void’ has sprung from my desire to meet with members of my community who are looking to improve their lives with EFT. Not everyone needs or can afford one-on-one EFT sessions, and ‘Tapping the Void’ is a great middle ground. The name is inspired by the void we feel between where we are and where we wish to be in our lives. Through our EFT practice we unite the two hemispheres of what is and what is possible.”

There is a suggested donation of $10 to attend, and the circle meets every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. The Fellowship is located at 4225 NW 34th Street in Gainesville. Call 352-283-3909 or visit www.carlaburkle.com/events for more info.

Weight Loss Study and Wealth Attraction Support Groups

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t’s All Perfect is now hosting two support groups. Each group is designed to promote self-love,

understanding and acceptance, enhance soul communication and spiritual enlightenment, reach goals, find inner peace and mind, body, spirit balance.

Learn how to manifest with a gratitude attitude, the Laws of Attraction and Allowing, visualization techniques, goal energy accelerators and many other tools each first and third Tuesday at the Wealth and Abundance Group.

The Weight Loss Group, held on second and fourth Tuesdays, will focus on inner beauty, releasing emotional weight, insightful inner journeys, mental reprogramming, honoring the body, self-confidence and more.

Registration is suggested as all groups are by donation and space is limited. Held at 6:30 p.m. by It’s All Perfect in Wakeup With Makeup, 2106 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. For more information visit www.ItsAllPerfect.com or call Kim Marques at 352-804-9006.

Janet Slimak Returning to Ocala

Hoggetowne Medieval Faire

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he spirit of the Middle Ages will be celebrated at the 23rd Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire on January 24-25 and January 30- February 1. For two consecutive weekends, at the Alachua County Fairgrounds in Gainesville, a medieval marketplace will come to life.

Eight stages will feature the forgotten skills of full flight falconry, gripping aerial acrobatics and magic acts. Jugglers, musicians and dancers fill the streets and stages with gypsy dancing, ancient music, mystifying magic, knife throwing and fire eating. Mounted knights will joust in full armor on the tournament field. Enjoy your day by watching a chess game played out with human chess pieces, or test your own skills in games of chance and strength.

At the medieval marketplace, artisans will demonstrate their skills and sell medieval wares including blacksmithing, weaving, leatherworking, woodcarving, pottery and more. Children may visit the royal

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anet Slimak, LMT, CHT, NLP, has returned to Ocala to resume her practice at The Natural Health Institute focusing on energy balancing using Cranio-Sacral Technique and conscious-language feedback. She will be teaching Mastery Languaging at several locations, the first of which is at Mystic Realms, Chelsea Square, Ocala, beginning Feb 11th for five consecutive Wednesdays. For more information or to sign up, call 352732- LIFE (5433).

Carla Burkle EFT Practitioner Find Emotional Freedom ... Finally!

Often Works When Nothing Else Will 352-283-3909 www.carlaburkle.com Free introductory session!

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newsbriefs pavilion, where they will become lords and ladies of the court, or ride on a camel, pony or elephant.

Faire hours: 10-6- on Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30-3 on Friday.

Admission: $12/adults, $6/age 5-17 and free/children 5 and younger.

For more information, call the City of Gainesville Dept. of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs at 352-334-ARTS or visit www.gvlculturalaffairs.org.

Deepak Chopra’s Series

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nity Church of Ocala is offering a five-week class entitled “Jesus and the Awakening to God-Consciousness.” The class

will be facilitated by Reverend Bill Dodd and is based on best-selling author and spiritual leader, Deepak Chopra, who teams up on video with leading Unity minister Wendy Craig-Purcell for this bold series.

The class is based on Chopra’s recent book “The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot Ignore.”

Through six provocative conversations, they take an indepth look at how Christianity fits within a context of contemporary spiritual beliefs and practices.

The class will be offered on five consecutive Wednesday evenings January 21-February 18 from 7-9 p.m. on a love offering basis. All classes will be held at Unity Church of Ocala, 101 Cedar Road in Silver Spring Shores, 352-6872113.

Be Still and Know

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ary Dodd leads a class in “Meditation as Our Guide to Life.” She says, “Our happiness relies on our will to live in the Now. Each moment of care produces another good moment.

Meditation is stilling our mind in the Now, so we can be more aware of our true self. The words of Jesus confirm this truth, when He said, ‘Be still and know.’ We bring ourselves home in the moment of awareness. We develop our intuition and love of our true self.”

The Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) Meditations are held at Unity of Ocala every Thursday evening at 7:15 p.m. Yoga class is also offered on that evening at 6 p.m. Call 352687-2113 for additional info.

Yoga Teacher Training

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nspiration Yoga Institute will be holding a 200-hour yoga teacher training beginning in May at the Ayurveda Health Retreat in Alachua. The 28-day program will be taught by Krista Freymann of Shakti Yoga in Philadelphia.

Freymann, an RYT teacher in vinyasa flow tradition, has studied with Siva Rea and Gary Kraftsow.

The 200-hour program is designed to provide the training, practice and teaching experience for yoga students to gain the skills and confidence necessary to become effective yoga teachers.

The students will also receive a foundational education in Ayurveda from Richard Masla, director of the Retreat.

For more information, visit www.ayurvedahealthretreat.com or call 352-870-7645.

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healthbriefs

Season and Sniff to Shed Pounds

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For Kisses So Sweet

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ad breath can spoil any kiss. But instead of reaching for the traditional peppermint breath mints, some Illinois scientists encourage us to consider the benefits of bark extract from the sweet magnolia tree. A recent study published by the American Chemical Society found that mints infused with the bark extract killed 61 percent of the germs that cause bad breath within 30 minutes compared with only a 3.6 percent germ-kill for the same mints without the extract.

More, magnolia bark extract showed a strong antibacterial activity against a group of bacteria known to cause cavities.

Sweet magnolia has more to offer than beautiful, fragrant blossoms, researchers say. Breath mints made with magnolia bark extract could be a boon for oral health as an additive to chewing gum and mints.

Source: ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 11/14/07.

Keep Love Alive: Take a Walk

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ean, physically active men have a 30 percent lower chance of impotence, say Harvard researchers. Why? Exercise keeps all the body’s blood vessels flexible and free of plaque.

fresh tactic for shedding unwanted holiday pounds is to first season our food, take a sniff before biting and then chew well, suggests a new study that put the theory to the test. Researchers asked overweight and obese participants to sprinkle a variety of flavoring crystals—savory or sweet “tastants”—on neutral-tasting foods before eating them. A control group was given crystals with no flavor.

Follow-up measurements of the volunteers’ weight and body mass index during a period of six months revealed that those using the flavored crystals lost an average of 30.5 pounds. The control group reported an average drop of just two pounds. The researchers theorize that flavorful food enhances our senses of smell and taste, helps us eat less, savor more and ultimately control our weight.

The hidden flavors of the saltless savory tastants were cheddar cheese, onion, horseradish, ranch dressing, taco or parmesan. Sweet but sugarless flavors were cocoa, spearmint, banana, strawberry, raspberry or malt.

Despite the tastant crystals not yet being commercially available, Alan Hirsch, MD, director of the study and the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, said that people can use these techniques of enhancing their senses of smell and taste, to lose weight now. “Sniff your food before you eat it. Chew it a lot. Choose low-calorie foods and season them,” he suggested.

Source: The Endocrine Society, 2008, www.endo-society.org.

Oregano Fights Inflammation, Infections, Insects

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regano does more than give pizza and spaghetti an unmistakable Italian flavor. German and Swiss scientists have discovered that this herb also contains substances that help alleviate inflammation in the body.

In fact, a 2001 Georgetown University Medical Center study found that oregano oil (particularly, carvacrol, one of the chemical components of oregano) is an effective treatment against antibiotic-resistant staph.

Oregano is even known to be an effective natural insecticide, with none of the side effects on the environment of traditional synthetic products. Oregano is prolific and extraordinarily easy to grow, making it a contender in the race to develop effective insecticidals that don’t violate increasingly stringent federal standards.

Sources: Bonn University and ETH Zürich, 2008; www.sciencedaily.com, 2001; www.georgetown.edu/gumc.

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healthbriefs FOOD FACT… >>> Did you know that certain chemicals found in turmeric, an exotic yellow spice used in curries, and in onions have been found to reduce both the size and the number of precancerous lesions in the intestinal tract, thus helping prevent colon cancer?

Journal o al G off Clinic Clinical Gas astr troen oentter erology as tr oen ology at ology ((A Augus 006) Hepat atology ugustt 2 2006) and Hep

Work Out joint pain

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on’t let joint swelling and other arthritis symptoms stop you from being active. A strength-training program can actually reduce joint pain and stiffness, according to a study in Arthritis Care & Research. For two years, patients with early arthritis did two sets of strength exercises twice a week, working all the muscle groups in their arms, legs and trunk. The subjects had a 67 percent drop in pain and a 50 percent decrease in limitations in their daily activities. Study author Arja Hakkinen, Ph.D., offers these strategies: • Do strength moves for major muscle groups for 30 minutes once or twice a week. Build intensity by decreasing reps but adding weight; do 2 to 3 sets per exercise with enough weight to tire the muscles. Alter your program every six weeks for better results.

• Perform regular aerobic exercise for about 30 minutes three or four times a week. “Do something that makes you sweat,” Hakkinen says. “This shouldn’t be a Sunday stroll.”

DID YOU KNOW? >>> That breakfast really is the most important meal of the day? Here is why: Individuals who skip breakfast often feel tired, irritable and restless in the morning.

Skipping breakfast reduces concentration and muscle coordination.

People who eat breakfast regularly tend to eat less fat throughout the day.

Meditation Boosts Brain Power

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arly research from Harvard Medical School’s Massachusetts General Hospital suggests that daily meditation can alter the physical structure of the brain and may even slow brain deterioration related to aging. Research scientist Sara Lazar reports that parts of the brain known as the cerebral cortex were thicker in 20 people who meditated for as little as 40 minutes a day, compared with 15 people who did not meditate. “This region plays a critical role in decision making, working memory and brain-body interactions,” Lazar says.

According to WebMD sources, the Harvard study is not the first to suggest a relationship between meditation and brain function. Recent studies of Tibetan Buddhists who devote their lives to meditation suggest the practice alters key electrical impulses in the brain. Yet Harvard Medical School psychology professor Stephen Kosslyn cautions that it’s still too early to draw conclusions.

Source: WebMD Medical News

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healthbriefs

Healthy Pick Cloudy Apple Juice’s Clear Benefits

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HEN IT COMES TO DISEASE-FIGHTING ANTIOXIDANTS, cloudy apple juice appears to be the clear winner according to a new study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. Research shows that cloudy, or unclarified, apple juice contains up to four times the polyphenols as some types of clear apple juice. Yet clear apple juices continue to dominate store shelves and sales due to their longer shelf life as well as consumer misperceptions that they’re purer.

Researcher Jan Oszmianski at the Agricultural University of Wroclaw in Poland says the clarification process may remove solids and other compounds rich in polyphenols. Plant polyphenols are believed to help fight heart disease and cancer, among other health benefits.

Additional sources include red wine, dark chocolate, and red berries.

352-861-1200

Source: WebMD Medical News

SkinWins Toxin Cut from Nail Polish

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OWING TO CONSUMER PRESSURE and a grassroots Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, Orly International, OPI Products and Sally Hansen have eliminated dibutyl phthalate (DBP) from their nail polish and nail treatment products. This common ingredient has been linked to birth defects, and was found in 100 percent of hundreds of Americans tested. The highest levels—exceeding federal safety standards—appeared in women of childbearing age. DBP is considered a reproductive toxin in California. Europe has banned its use in all cosmetics.

For a complete rundown of health and beauty product safety ratings by brand, visit the Environmental Working Group’s website at ewg.org/reports/skindeep.

Mention Natural Awakenings magazine for FREE GIFT

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naturalpet

No Bones About It Arthritis in pets can be helped with nutrition

by Paula Hunt

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erhaps you’ve noticed that Rover’s gotten a little stiff in the hind legs or that Spunky is having trouble jumping in and out of her litter box. These problems may be more serious than you think. Difficulty performing routine movements and reduced mobility may be indications that your pet is suffering from arthritis.

This progressively degenerative joint disease usually affects larger breeds of dogs, like retrievers, but it can also occur in cats. The most common form, degenerative osteoarthritis, is characterized by the erosion of the joints’ normally smooth cartilage surfaces. Rough new surfaces develop in their place and cause joint pain and inflammation.

Arthritis can stem from a variety of factors including poor diet, genetics,

aging and even Lyme disease. Since many other conditions, from heart disease to anemia, produce similar symptoms, have your veterinarian diagnose the condition with an X-ray.

The good news is, whether you’re looking to prevent the onset of arthritis or alleviate the symptoms, there are plenty of natural remedies to turn to.

“Nutrition is the most important thing you can do to prevent your pet from developing arthritis,” says Gerald Buchoff, a holistic veterinary practitioner in North Bergen, N.J. Most canned and dry commercial pet foods lack the minerals needed for maintaining ideal health, so Buchoff recommends adding a supplement to your pet’s diet that contains digestive enzymes, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. “Digestive enzymes help the body break down

food more completely and thereby unlock the essential nutrients,” he explains. “Antioxidants act as soldiers that patrol the body for the free radicals that are by-products of inflammatory processes such as arthritis. And essential fatty acids, like omega-3, cannot be made by the body but have been shown to aid in the prevention of arthritis.”

If your animal is already symptomatic, John Heinerman Ph.D., author of Natural Pet Cures: Dog & Cat Care the Natural Way (Prentice Hall Press, 1998), suggests giving him mineral-rich anti-inflammatories like alfalfa and yucca. Add them in powdered form to food once a day (1/4 teaspoon tsp. each for cats, 1/2 to 1 tsp. for dogs). He also recommends cold-pressed flaxseed oil (1 tsp. for cats, 1 tablespoon for dogs) to reduce swelling.

Physical therapies, such as acupuncture, Shiatsu and chiropractic, can also relieve arthritic pain when performed by a licensed practitioner.

According to Buchoff, chiropractic adjustments every six months, especially for large animals, can halt the onset of arthritis. Pain and stiffness can also be reduced by giving a gentle daily massage with your thumbs and fingertips on the pet’s affected joints.

Exercise is also important for prevention and symptom management.

It helps maintain muscle strength, which enhances joint support, and keeps off extra weight that can put pressure on the joints. (Take your dog for a walk or have a play session with your cat using a ball or pull toy.)

Finally, be sure to give your pet a warm, dry bed that’s far away from joint-stiffening drafts.

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abundance&prosperity

Reach for the Stars “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

—Walt Disney “Whatever you can do, or believe you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.”

—Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

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hat if you had a door beyond your current thinking that took you to a life you thought you could only dream about? What if the only way you could get there was to first believe it is even there to begin with? Could you open up to this idea—or does a negative voice shoot this down? (“Yeah, right— me living a big dream, fat chance!”)

We all have conditioned thought patterns that dictate how we perceive the world around us, and what possibilities are open to us and which are not.

These thought patterns are handed down to us from generation to generation. If your parents lived their dreams and were filled with joy and fulfillment, then you probably inherited some thought patterns that will lead to the same experience for you. But if your parents were unhappy and struggled with fear, addictions, lack of purpose, or lack of deep connection with others, then watch out—your inherited conditioned thought patterns may be hazardous to your life!

The interesting thing about these thought patterns are that they are invisible to us. They are so much a part of us that they feel normal and we don’t even notice the ways they are limiting our life. You are probably even shaking your head right now wondering “What is she talking about?”

The signs that you are under the influence of these limiting patterns can be one or more of the following: A sense that there is something more to life, that something is missing

Feelings of depression and hopelessness about life (“What is the point”) Feelings of envy or jealousy about the lives of other people (“I wish my life could be more like that”) Lack of Joy and excitement Lack of deep fulfillment and satisfaction with life Lack of any deep connection with yourself and others Lack of a sense of a larger purpose for your life Lack of a sense of spirituality and feeling of spiritual connection If you are feeling some of the things I listed above, I have good news for you: these are signals that more in life is awaiting you.

These feelings are indicating that conditioned thought patterns are holding you back from more that is wanting to be expressed inside of you.

Here are some tips to help you break out of these patterns.

Realize that your limiting thinking is not true.

That negative thinking has no basis in reality, even though it feels very real. It feels real because you have been saying these things to yourself for a long time and as a child you probably got this message over and over as well. Remember, just because

by Shelley Riutta, MSE, LPC

the voice is loud does not mean that it is true.

If you have the dream, you have what it takes to manifest the dream.

Your dreams are in your heart for a reason. They would not be there if they were not something you were meant to have. They are there to be a beacon, a guide for you to move towards and pursue.

Your dreams are not wishful thinking, but important thoughts and images to pay attention to because they are the guides to the incredible possibilities of your life.

If you didn’t have the capability to achieve your dreams, they would not be in your consciousnesses to begin with.

Trust that because your dreams are there, all of the necessary things for their manifestation are present as well.

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Believe in your dreams.

When you were growing up, if your parents didn’t honor and pursue their own dreams—or discounted the dreams you shared with them—you might have learned to do the same thing with your own dreams. Pay attention to your dreams and treat them as beautiful and sacred. Honor them, value them and pursue them.

Think of the belief in your own dreams as a warm flame that you surround your dream with—warming, nurturing and fueling it. Belief activates a dream and is a catalyst for its manifestation.

As you move towards your dream, you will move through fear.

Your conditioned thinking is your comfort zone. These thoughts feel “normal” and familiar to you. As you move towards your dream, you will be bumping into your conditioned thinking, which will want to hold you

back in your comfort zone. You are moving into new territory, and it can be as if an alarm goes off in your conditioned thinking saying “Red Alert—we are doing something different! We need to stop and go back to safety.” Bob Proctor, a noted life coach, calls this the terror barrier.

Many people, when they get to this point, feel that these uncomfortable feelings are an indicator that they are making a mistake and they stop pursuing their dream. This terror is actually a good thing: it is letting them know that they are moving out of their limited thinking patterns and into the freedom of living from their true self.

Pursuing your dream helps you grow and expand.

We are meant to move toward dreams that might initially feel out of reach, because these dreams cause us to stretch, grow and expand into the highest expression of our unique essence. To achieve our dreams, we need to move through inner and outer barriers that have kept us living small.

As you move through these barriers you will start to feel more energized and confident in all areas of your life.

It has a ripple effect of freeing up the energy that was keeping you limited.

If you are going to dream, dream big.

The bigger the dream, the bigger the growth and expansion you will experience. What I find is that people set their initial dream, and as they move towards it they begin to grow,

expand and release their limited thinking. Then, their experience is that they are in a new realm of open space and incredible possibilities. It is from this space that they can have even greater clarity about their dreams—and oftentimes these dreams will expand and get even bigger.

Let go of what others think and get positive support.

To pursue your deepest dreams, it is important to let go of what others think of you. Because there are so many people walking around with unlived dreams in their hearts, it is easy for them to project their own limiting thinking onto you. It is important to notice this for what it is and not to take it seriously and buy into their concerns or negativity.

Find people who are dreamers—and, more importantly, people who are taking their dreams seriously and taking action to achieve these dreams.

Ongoing positive support is essential in reaching your dreams. You are not meant to do this alone. You need lots of support, and the right kind of support, from people who believe in the beauty and possibility of your dreams. Perhaps in the past you hadn’t been able to make progress towards your dream simply because you didn’t have enough support around you.

Begin today to believe in the beauty of your dreams and the incredible possibilities for your life.

Take action to move towards them.

Watch doors open, and enjoy the unique gifts that come out—all leading you to life, a big life that until now you have only dreamed about.

Shelley Riutta, MSE, LPC is a Holistic Psychotherapist specializing in transformational individual counseling, presentations, groups and workshops.

For her free workbook visit www.RadiantLifeCounseling.com.

Shelley will also be giving a three-day Workshop in Ocala Feb. 26, 27 and 28.

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Valentine’s Day Every Day

Presents, or Presence?

by Diana Daffner

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alentine’s Day. Fancy dinners, candy, cards, gifts, flowers. Endless expressions of love.

Yes, let’s celebrate love, shouting aloud our passion and devotion! Let’s enjoy romantic dinners, cards, flowers, presents. (No candy, please, unless it’s dark chocolate!)

However, what I most treasure as a gift, not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day, is the gift of my beloved’s presence.

What does that mean, presence? At one level it means physical nearness—sitting together reading, watching TV or at a theater, walking a beach, feeling the closeness of my beloved’s body, knowing we are a unit, that we belong together. The comfort that such nearness brings is often envied by those who dance alone.

Other levels of presence can provide even greater joy, deeper intimacy and more nourishing spiritual bonding.

Consciously or unconsciously, all humans crave this deeper level of presence. We yearn to be truly seen and heard. A caring and compassionate counselor often fulfills this need, listens to our emotional self-discovery, and focuses exclusively on us. When we stand before others in an AA meeting, the undivided attention allows us to speak about ourselves honestly and from the depth of our being.

This power of being in the present moment is also experienced in spiritual and wisdom circles. Drawing on ancient customs, we may each speak in turn, as others in the circle listen to our personal expressions of self. When we trust that we are being listened to, we can to drop our public face and reveal our inner soul.

Even alone, we can experience the power of revealing ourselves by imagining or sensing our spiritual guide, guardian angel or our own higher self, or even “the man in the moon.” We can speak to them; and their presence, real or imagined, but attentive and unwavering, will allow us to say what needs to be said. As the old cliché reminds us, when we share our pain with another, it lessens—and when we share our joy, it doubles.

And going deeper still, we can move beyond a presence that permits emotional disclosure to a level of exquisite presence that simply is. This deeper level of presence invites us to into the soft essence of our own beingness. The quiet peacefulness of a meditation group, a yoga or tai chi class, reflects this shared presence, as we each rest in our own sense of self. No longer separated by our stories, we are joined by our mutual participation in an all-pervasive, everpresent intelligent energy.

What does all this have to do with Valentine’s Day? In a love relationship, at our side every day is someone who

loves us—someone who is not our therapist, casual classmate, fellow workshop participant, co-worker or spirit friend—but a flesh and blood human who has chosen, to the best of their ability, to be close to us, to be intimate. While as individuals we walk, talk and experience life differently from one another, when we come into open presence with each other, our differences slide away. Only oneness remains. It is here, in our love relationship, that we can really learn to walk this path, to give presence instead of just presents.

How do we do that? When we approach our beloved with reverence, we touch the divine that lives in each of us.

When we gaze upon our beloved with eyes that are open to our own soul, we see the spiritual nature that lies beneath our separateness. And when we breathe with our beloved, letting the breath move in and out of our bodies, mingling in the space between us, returning over and over again to the source of sacred breath deep within us, we stand naked in the mystery and joy of holy union. This is the gift of presence that we can share with our beloved.

Valentine’s Day is a reminder to celebrate, but every day is an opportunity to share presence with your beloved.

Begin by adding a few extra seconds to each kiss, to each touch. Create pauses in your togetherness; make time for when there is nothing to do, nothing to say. Abide in the love that circulates between you. Ask for, and give, the time necessary to make this a purposeful, daily practice. Listen to one another, listen with your heart. Look at each other in your moments of passion. Recognize and appreciate that when you share your vital life force with another, a cellular transformation takes place that energizes you from the inside out. And, because we are all connected, your evolution contributes to the ongoing presence of love in our whole world.

The giving and receiving of presence is truly a gift that keeps on giving.

Diana Daffner, M.A., is a marital coach and the author of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples: How to Deepen Your Passion in Just Ten Minutes a Day. With her husband, Richard, she leads workshops for couples in romantic locations. For more information, visit www.IntimacyRetreats.com or call 941349-6804 (877-282-4244) for a brochure.

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Birthing a Career as a Midwife

by Kaitlin Earley

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lorida Licensed Midwives (LMs), also called direct-entry midwives, are autonomous maternity care providers for women with low-risk pregnancies who work in a variety of settings including home birth practices, birth centers and clinics, and are eligible to be insurance and Medicaid providers. Licensed midwives are experts in low-risk, natural childbirth.

LMs are specifically trained to provide care in an out-of-hospital setting, and so typically conduct their care in the homes of their clients or in free-standing clinics or birth centers.

They care for women who desire natural childbirth and a minimum of interventions, and usually emphasize the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle to nurture the fetal growth of a healthy baby. Midwives typically offer nutritional and lifestyle counseling, childbirth education, continuous labor support, and education on the issues surrounding childbirth and becoming a parent. Extensive one-on-one consultation between midwife and mother effectively supports the mother in adopting healthy behaviors for herself and her family.

Midwives excel in watching over the normal process of a low-risk birth.

They have been called the “guardians of normal birth” because they essentially stand guard over a process that is completed by the mother and her family.

As part of this guardianship, they watch for complications that might arise during pregnancy and birth, and consult with other medical experts as necessary. Midwives also give advice on comfort measures for pregnancy and birth, and many specialize in water birth, which helps to reduce pain and discomfort for the mother and creates a gentle transition for the baby from womb to world.

Florida LMs are licensed by the state of Florida through a branch of the Department of Health, the Council of Licensed Midwifery. The Florida Statute that governs the practice of Licensed Midwifery is No. 467, the Midwifery

Practice Act, and is one of the most progressive in the United States.

In order to become a Florida LM, interested applicants must complete a three-year midwifery program approved by the state of Florida, such as the program at the Florida School of Traditional Midwifery.

Then they must sit for the national midwifery exam called “the NARM,” which is administered through the North American Registry of Midwives. The state of Florida utilizes the NARM exam as its state licensing exam.

Once a student has completed an approved program and passed the NARM exam, she or he is eligible to apply to the state of Florida for a license. Licensed midwives are required to carry malpractice insurance, which starts at about $3,000 per year, depending on the number of births attended per year and location of the practice. After licensure, the midwife is free to set up her own independent practice and care for healthy women in their childbearing years.

A midwife’s salary will largely depend on the type and size of her midwifery practice. Some midwives are hired in existing birth centers and receive a yearly salary.

Others choose to open their own birth center and hire staff to assist with the many jobs associated with a busy practice. Since they have a stationary practice with staff to help, they can take more clients than an independent home-birth midwife. Midwives who run a birth center are also subject to an additional set of regulations, as there is a separate statute for birth centers, Florida Statute 383.

Finally, some midwives will choose to operate independently as home-birth midwives. These practitioners may work alone or with a partner, and usually attend about 4-6 births a month. A homebirth midwife is typically on call 24/7, and must see to all aspects of the practice herself, but with little overhead, her yearly income may be higher than a salaried midwife in a birth center. It all depends on how many clients she has, which varies from month to month.

All in all, midwifery is a dynamic, exciting and extremely demanding profession. Those women, and sometimes men, who become midwives feel a calling for the work they do, beyond that of a simple “occupation.” They work and sacrifice to pursue a vocation that is a passion and a great love, as they receive the future into their hands.

Kaitlin Earley is the Academic Director of the Florida School of Traditional Midwifery, Inc. Visit www.midwiferyschool.org.

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Becoming a Licensed Acupuncture Practitioner

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uriosity, adaptability, a keen yet flexible mind, strong people skills and study skills, creativity, resourcefulness, intelligence, great sense of humor, and good health— that’s what one student, graduating senior Lisa Braren, says it takes to be a successful student of Chinese medicine.

Her classmate, Katharine Morse, says it takes dedication, determination, and a passion for helping others to learn how to live healthier lives.

Another student, Candice Nelms, points to the patient-practitioner relationship: “When students are able to transform what they have learned and understood into their being, they express a unique and genuine approach to each individual patient.

Knowledge transforms the student’s core essence into real confidence that the patient can feel. When the patient is confident in the care being offered, I believe the student has become a successful practitioner.”

Acupuncture is becoming a more popular career choice as the profession becomes better accepted in the medical community and as schools become accredited and available to students. Today, more than 50 schools around the country teach acupuncture, and no school survives very long without becoming accredited. States require transcripts from accredited schools, as well as passing grades on national board exams, in order to issue licenses.

Students attend a minimum of three years to complete a thorough study of the basics of Chinese medicine. The discipline has been in existence for thousands of years, so it is a deep and subtle approach to the healing of body, mind and soul. A student of acupuncture can graduate from an excellent school but will never

stop studying and learning the intricacies of the medicine. Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine, located in Gainesville, FL, requires a 40-month program that includes acupuncture, herbal studies, qi gong, clinic practice, Oriental history and philosophy, and of course, the unique teachings of Dr. Hammer. His in-depth pulse diagnostics teachings can be found only at this college.

After graduation, practitioners entering work will earn from $20,000 to $50,000 per year for the first three years, depending on whether they work part-time or full-time, work with others, have multiple rooms going (style and pace of practice), the area in which they practice (urban vs. rural), and just how much they network and promote their practice.

After the business start-up period, based on the above conditions, acupuncture practitioners can make up to $150,000 a year. One recently graduated acupuncturist was hired into a western medical practice for a beginning salary of $70,000.

The school’s graduating seniors have a variety of plans. Candice says she will intern for the next year with two of her teachers here in Gainesville, while working on a grant to fund recoveries from neurological diseases/ traumas using Oriental medicine.

Katharine will be spending time enjoying her family, studying for boards, and taking some time to rest before opening a part-time practice in Lake City and Gainesville in January. Lisa will develop a practice in Jacksonville, utilizing all that she has studied—acupuncture, herbs, guasha, cupping, moxa, auricular, heat therapy, Tuina (Oriental bodywork), lifestyle consultation, and other Oriental medicine healing modalities.

What was it that prompted these students to make a dramatic change in the course of their professional lives?

We asked the question: How and why did you come to start a second or even third profession by studying acupuncture?

Candice responded that for her it was timing. She has always enjoyed working with people and came from a medical family, even though she knew

she didn’t wish to pursue western medicine. Through a series of events and meeting people, she was inspired to commit to a healing path when she found acupuncture and Dragon Rises College. She believes it is a true calling.

Lisa decided to pursue a Masters in Oriental Medicine from Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine because she found success from her own personal experience. An early appointment with an acupuncturist quickly and effectively resolved her chief complaint. Moments later, she noticed her energy had become more balanced and she was very relaxed. After research, seminars, and discussions with her acupuncturist, she realized that for her, acupuncture would be a promising career to transition into from her longtime career as a public relations professional.

Katharine’s experience came from a combination of factors. Her children were “leaving the nest” and she was looking for a new career she could be passionate about. At that same time, a daughter was diagnosed with an illness and western medicine was unable to alleviate her pain. She tried acupuncture and it worked! After trying acupuncture herself, Katharine realized that Oriental medicine was a fantastic medical option and has since devoted herself to becoming a practitioner.

“Every day I hear success stories of how acupuncture changed someone’s life by easing their pain or stabilizing an ailment,” says Ruth Hayes-Morrison, Dean of Admissions at Dragon Rises College. “The medicine works. When people are looking for a career in a healing, helping profession, more often they are considering Oriental medicine. There are not many careers that are flexible enough for you to choose between working in a medical setting or having your own business and time schedule. There are also not many careers that allow you to make a real difference in the lives of others while making a good living yourself.”

This article is the combined effort of Autumn Grubb, Ruth Hayes-Morrison, Kate Ellison, and the students quoted in the article. Visit www.dragonrises.edu.

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Making Hypnotherapy a Career

By Matthew Brownstein, CHt

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magine a career where you can set your own hours, be your own boss, and go home every day knowing that you truly transformed the lives of those you encountered.

Having been a hypnotherapist for 12 years, I can honestly say that this is the most rewarding and fulfilling career I could ever have imagined. I have now logged more than 10,000 hours of clinical practice and never cease to be amazed at the miracles that occur through the use of the hypnotic state, combined with truly effective transformational techniques, which create aweinspiring change.

The decision to become a hypnotherapist or to add hypnotherapy to your existing healing practice has to come from a place of truly wanting to be of service to others. The hypnotherapeutic relationship is one of deep rapport, compassion and intimacy. It involves two people coming together to grow, to heal, and to reach greater states of wholeness and happiness. This happens not just for the client, but for the hypnotherapist as well.

The field of hypnotherapy is relatively new even though the hypnotic state has been used under various names for thousands of years.

Today, modern hypnotherapy employs powerful techniques that help others to reach their goals, overcome limiting behaviors, and achieve greater states of

prosperity and fulfillment in all areas of life.

To become a hypnotherapist, one must attend a school that is licensed by the Florida Department of Education.

Many trainings in hypnotherapy are not licensed by the state, which makes their diplomas meaningless and their business practice illegal.

Schools also should be certified by an agency that requires the highest standards in the industry. Many trainings in hypnotherapy only require 25 to 150 classroom hours to become “certified” and many are offered online without any direct one-on-one supervised practical hours. The American Council of Hypnotist Examiners is one of the oldest and

most respected organizations in the industry and it requires a minimum of 300 hours to become a clinical certified hypnotherapist.

The Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy was the first school in the state of Florida to become state licensed and is the only school in Florida certified by the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners.

The school offers a sixmonth training program with 400 classroom hours, making up a highly evolved curriculum consisting of some of the most ancient and modern techniques available. The Institute itself only offers training “in-house” under our firm belief that hypnotherapy should be learned under direct supervision through qualified teachers and approved examiners, and in a caring and loving setting that promotes personal growth, excellence in training and the highest standards in the industry.

Matthew Brownstein, CHt is the Director and Lead Instructor of the Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy in Gainesville, Florida. He is a clinical certified hypnotherapist, approved instructor and certified examiner through the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners. For more information about the Institute’s statelicensed programs you can call 352378-5746 or visit www.tfioh.com. Next class begins March 2009.

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Curvy OR Skinny?

Design the perfect New Year’s fitness plan for your

BodyMind Type

by David-Dorian Ross

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ccasionally, if we are lucky, we experience extraordinary moments when we see ourselves as we could be, struck by a sense of connection to the universe. Psychologist Abraham Maslow called these “peak experiences.” Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi calls them “flow states.” Psychotherapist Thomas Moore called them “soul.” Whatever you call them, something remarkable happens in these moments.

In my first T’ai chi class, I was dropped unexpectedly into one of these moments. And when I began teaching this martial art, I assumed everyone would want to experience the same thing. Why, then, didn’t more people sign up for my classes? Were they in such denial about what their lives were missing? Then one day I asked myself, “Is T’ai chi really for everyone?”

“What’s the best workout for me?”

Many people have asked wellness life coach and T’ai chi expert David-Dorian Ross this question. His answer is always the same: “The one you’ll do again tomorrow.”

Find F Fi ind nd o out utt w whi which hich hi hw workouts orko orko or kout uts ts wi will w ill ll m most ostt li os llikely like ike kely k ely y sa ati t sffy yo y u ph phys y ic ys ical a ly al y, em emot ottio ona nall lly, ll y y, satisfy you physically, emotionally, in nte tell llec ll e tu ec t al a ly ya nd ds sou oulf ou lfful u ly y, ba b se ed on intellectually and soulfully, based y ur u yo n qu ni q e ps p y ho yc h -p phy hysi s o pr si p ofi fille. e. e. your unique psycho-physio profi

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The 5-Season BodyMind Types

MOST-EFFECTIVE WORKOUT IS RELATIVE

Spring | The Lion | The Warrior Spirit

Humans experience the world Procedure Intervals Notes on all human levels simultanePsycho-physio profi le: ously—physically, emotionally, Typical fitness club member/trainer; good intellectually and spiritually. You competitive athlete; large-boned mesomorph and your spouse or friend may expe(naturally muscular and able to shed weight); rience the same event in profoundly strong musculature different ways. Part of that experience is created by the way you’ve learned Intrinsic motivator: Achievement/action to process information. Another part is given by the way you are genetically Most compatible workouts: predisposed to process information.

Conventional, highly physical or active exercise For example, while T’ai chi ch’uan, the internal soft martial art for health and Springs are the quintessential go-getters. Their number one intrinsic motilongevity, is beneficial to everyone, each vator is their initiative and drive for achievement. Springs are mavericks, individual will experience it differently, pioneers, adventurers and entrepreneurs—‘take charge’ people. and not everyone will enjoy it. If you aren’t Springs have a strong mental component to their temperament and like to enjoying yourself, you probably won’t slide think they have logical reasons for everything they do—although decisions into that flow moment that reveals your soul are just as likely to be based on emotion and instinct. They are competito your inner eye. tive and impatient; others may sometimes interpret this as being pushy or I do many things—I surf, ski, practice controlling. yoga and dance a lot, aware that it’s not the Springs love conventional strength/cardio workouts, which satisfy dance performed that is important; it is the their need for stimulation and a sense of achievement. Their best intrinsic experience of the dance, one’s appreciation of motivator toward regular exercise is a sense of competition—if only against its depth and meaning—its soulfulness. All of themselves. these activities nurture the bodymind. If you Springs tend to lose focus or get distracted by the next challenge steer toward experiences that are more comthat comes along. So, while Springs are the least likely to enjoy T’ai chi, fortable and successful for you, you’ll make the practice can help them stay in tune with their body’s signals, balancyour efforts to stay fit and healthy irresistibly ing their tendency to ignore their intuition and even physical warnings fun, and therefore effective. If any given activlike pain. It also can help them stick with an exercise routine through its ity doesn’t transport you to an “Aha!” moment, depth, both of different exercises and principles, which provide logical try something else that will. reasons to work out.

KNOW YOUR TYPE, FIND YOUR WORKOUT

Summer | The Horse | The Free Spirit

One way I help people identify what fitness/ Psycho-physio profile: wellness pursuits would be irresistibly fun Will try new, fun things; small to medium-boned for them is through a 5-Season BodyMind mesomorph; lean dancer’s body Typology. I developed this system with other Intrinsic motivator: Spontaneity experts based on meta-analysis of dozens of different typologies, including Ayurvedic Most compatible workouts: typing, Chinese 5 Element theory, MeyersHatha yoga, low-impact aerobics, dance, jazzerBriggs and Human Dynamics. cise, Nia, circuit-training, walking, hiking It also factors in the truth that people feel better about exercise when they Summers are spontaneous, fiery, charismatic and draare successful doing it. Also, that your matic, but also intensely loving and empathetic. They body may feel better or more natural feel emotions strongly, whether their own or another’s. in a workout that most efficiently uses They are great communicators, the life of the party, and often solve problems the type of muscle fiber of which you by talking things out.

Summers tend to think of problems in terms of the people have the most: fast-twitch fibers, involved and how they are feeling.

Some may view Summers as touchy-feely. which are especially good for anSummers tend to make good athletes, dancers and gymnasts. They love to have aerobic, strength-type movement; fun, to do activities that involve other people, but not necessarily with any particuor slow-twitch fibers, which are lar end result in mind; it is the process that inspires them. Summers are about more most efficient at aerobic, endurthan the goal.

They often stick with an activity because of the people involved, not the ance-type movement. activity itself.

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Mo st people ar eh ybrids ving a Mos are hybrids ybrids,, ha having ... Continued from the previous page Workouts like aerobics can draw out the strong feelings on which Summers thrive. Because pouring out their inner energy sends Summers out of balance, they also need inner-directed activities to conserve their energy. Group classes in yoga and T’ai chi can satisfy their dual needs for connection and meditation; solo activities like walking give Summers the chance to hear their own soul.

Indian Summer | The Bear | The Nurturing Spirit Psycho-physio profile: Systematic thinker; down-to-earth; typically larger-boned endomorph with slower metabolism (gain weight easily); a curvy female; a male Teddy bear

Intrinsic Motivator: Relationship

Most compatible workouts: Walking, jazzercise, swimming, tennis, cycling, circuit training Indian Summers find their identity in terms of a group, whether it is family, church, occupation or politics. They are patient listeners, extremely empathetic peacemakers and often have trouble saying no. Indian Summers know exactly where they are going and are not likely to swerve from their path. They see things from a holistic point of view. They take their time gathering information and once they see the whole picture, act decisively.

If Indian Summers get active upon awakening, they will do well and feel energetic for the rest of the day. Their sense of group connection makes them interested in just about any activity, as long as they do it with other people who are important in their lives.

Autumn | The Fox | The Thinker Psycho-physio profile: Logical and linear thinker; appears a smart competitor; ectomorphic with faster metabolism (smaller-boned, slim, with compact musculature and low fat storage)

Intrinsic motivator: Love of values and personal integrity, “doing the right thing”

Most compatible workouts: T’ai chi ch’uan, weight training, hatha yoga, Pilates, cycling Autumns are deep thinkers and, while logical and linear, may also be quick, sharp and witty (vs. the deep, slower thinkers, Winters). They tend to internalize

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primar y and s ec ondar y body ttype ype primary sec econdar ondary ype.. their emotions or put them to one side. Others may see them as aloof or unemotional. Autumns feel their emotions deeply, but keep them in perspective.

Because of their physical body type, their movements, like their thoughts, tend to be quick, precise and linear. Exercise education often works well as a motivator for them. Becoming fit, well or healthy is the right thing to do, for themselves and their family.

If they work with a coach or trainer for the first few weeks, Autumns are more likely to religiously follow their exercise routine, almost as if inertia was keeping them from stopping. Yet, Autumns have a high tolerance for discomfort, and so may ignore pain or other warning signals and end up overtraining or getting injured.

Workouts to balance this tendency include T’ai chi ch’uan, swimming and ballroom dancing—opportunities to help them get out of their heads, find calm and have fun.

Winter | The Ox | The Strategist Psycho-physio profile: Systematic thinker, appears aloof; endomorphic with strong musculature and may tend toward a slower metabolism (gains weight easily)

Intrinsic motivator: The big picture Most compatible workouts: Body building, Ashtanga yoga, martial arts, cardio-kickboxing, tennis, golf, swimming, Chen-style T’ai chi ch’uan Like Indian Summers, Winters see things from a holistic point of view. They take their time gathering information and once they see the whole picture, act decisively.

Winters are patient listeners—not necessarily to understand another’s emotions, but to gather information. Some may perceive the inwardly directed Winter as aloof, even cynical, but more likely, Winter is simply processing information and creating strategies for setting and attaining goals.

Winters want to know, “What will this workout do for me? How will it fit in with everything else I’m doing?” A logical approach to working out using a systematic schedule is effective for them.

Early mornings make the best times for Winters to exercise. Especially as they get older, they settle into themselves, like bears getting ready for hibernation. They need constant, regular stimulation, change and challenge.

Tennis, fencing, swimming and martial arts all are recommended, as well as the more vigorous Eastern practices, such as Chen T’ai chi and Ashtanga yoga.

David-Dorian Ross is America’s T’ai chi champion, whose competitive performances have won him seven U.S. gold medals and three World medals. He is the owner of Full Circle Fitness and the Full Circle T’ai Chi Academy, and is the talent behind the book, Exercising the Soul, award-winning educational DVDs and a PBS series. Visit DrTaiChi.com.

In the Next Issue: Create the Life You Want!

Ask what makes you come alive, and make it come true.

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Breathing Easy: Tips for Clean Air Indoors

by Mary Alford

D

uring these cold months, we tend to keep our windows and doors closed, concentrating pollutants in our homes and even introducing more pollutants by lighting fires and candles. It seems cozy and warm, but in today’s tighter homes you will find that air quality decreases this time of year and adds to the risk of breathing problems and potential illness.

To clean up your air there are three main areas of focus.

1. Clean the air in your home.

Many effective air cleaners are on the market, from simple tabletop models to very expensive whole-house models. One of the most cost effective ways to clean the air is to install high efficiency filters on your air conditioner and furnace. Important: check with a qualified professional before installing the very high efficiency filters to verify that your system can handle the extra draw.

However, do not despair if you can’t afford one of these expensive systems, as other options are available to you.

Studies show that various houseplants can assist in removing toxins from indoor air. Some common and popular houseplants that have been shown to remove benzene, formaldehyde and carbon monoxide include the peace lily, the gerbera daisy and English ivy. Integrating houseplants into your décor is an inexpensive and easy way to potentially lower these toxins in your home. All plants use carbon dioxide, converting it to oxygen—and houseplants have been shown to improve mood and even immunity, so you can’t go wrong!

2. Improve ventilation.

Ventilation is bringing fresh air into your home. In older homes, this was never a concern, as windows and doors were not as tight and small amounts of fresh air came in all the time (bringing colder temperatures with it). Newer homes with the best insulation may require what professionals call “make-up air” which adds a percentage of fresh air as your AC or furnace is running. However, you can accomplish the same thing by opening windows and doors when the weather is pleasant.

It is particularly important to improve ventilation when you are adding to the pollutants inside the house. Painting or refinishing wood; using some chemical cleaning products; installing new carpet, drapes or furniture; welding, soldering, sanding or gluing; cooking or heating using natural gas, propane or kerosene all require improved ventilation to protect your health, so make sure your windows are open. Be aware, however, that this increased ventilation can affect your utility bill, so try to time these activities to occur on warm days.

3. Reduce or eliminate the pollution source.

The first tip suggested buying equipment to clean already dirty air; the second covered diluting the dirty air to safe levels; and this suggestion is to try to eliminate the source of the pollution altogether.

Truly, this should be your first priority, but I placed it third because many of these steps happen in the planning,

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building, and purchasing phase, and most of us are in the position of finding Steps 1 and 2 to be most realistic.

That said, below are some common pollution sources and some suggestions for eliminating them or reducing the level of contaminants.

Formaldehyde: Particleboard, plywood and pressed woods can contain high levels of formaldehyde. Seal all edges of pressed wood products before putting them together by painting them with a low- or no-VOC sealant or paint (ask at your paint store). In addition, the rate at which the formaldehyde is emitted is temperature dependent—more is put into the air as the temperature increases. Maintaining a moderate temperature and humidity level will decrease the concentration, and if your house has been shut without AC during the summer, air it out well when you open it up.

Organic Gases (Volatile Organic Compounds): Many products that dry to hard finish—paints, adhesives, lacquer finishes—typically contain volatile organic compounds.

They have been linked to asthma and other health problems, and are often regulated when used in a commercial setting.

Look for “Low VOC” or “No VOC” on the labels of the products you are buying, particularly paints and finishes.

Also, when you buy new furniture, drapes or carpets, add ventilation for a week or so after they have been installed.

If you can smell it, it is usually not good.

Mold and Mildew: Controlling moisture is the key to keeping mold and mildew at bay. Vent your dryer and stove to the outside if possible, and watch for moisture problems with your AC system. If mold is growing in your vents, don’t just clean it out, look for the cause (usually a leaky duct in the attic causing condensation inside the vent).

Carbon Monoxide: When a fire burns completely, carbon dioxide is produced. However, even our most efficient appliances produce a small amount of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly in large quantities. Carbon monoxide is generated in a home by the use of unvented gas appliances, fireplaces and candles, and from connections with a garage. Installing a carbon monoxide detector/alarm will let you know if carbon monoxide has built up to dangerous levels, but venting your appliances, closing your garage door after turning off your car, and making sure your fireplace is drawing properly will keep carbon monoxide from building up in your home.

Other obvious sources of indoor air pollution include cleaning products (look for “green” versions, and avoid commercial products) cigarette smoke (keep it outside) and pesticides (if necessary, use passive systems like baits and traps rather than sprays or fogs).

I hope these tips will help everyone breath easier during the new year!

Mary Alford, P.E., is an environmental engineer with a background in everything from water and wastewater to power generation. Currently she helps develop green and sustainable homes, businesses and neighborhoods. To contact her, please email mary.alford@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.sustainabledesigngroup.com.

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The Power of Words

by Janet Slimak

J

ust how important is your word? To most, your word is your “bond” to be taken seriously and with credibility. Beyond that, why bother to pick and choose your words?

Words all have a vibratory quality, some of which enhance and some of which detract from who we are. This may sound like stating the obvious; however, it is much deeper than one might think. That “quality” can go deeper to affect not only your emotional body but your physical body. Imagine healing your body just by changing the words you choose!

Prayers are words strung together with meaning with the hope of an outcome. What do you suppose the difference is between your nightly prayer and what you just said in the

last five minutes? Would you like what you just said to happen or come into being right now? If not, perhaps you’d like to form another “prayer” in this moment before the last one hits home.

Indeed, is there any difference between a prayer and any word you utter? Does The Universe or God stop listening when he/she thinks you really

didn’t mean it? Does the vibratory quality you send out stop working when you are just babbling? Is there a chance everything you say regardless of intent actually materializes?

On the outside chance this could be true (this means the Law of Attraction is always working and is not intermittent), perhaps it’s time to examine your choice of words and put your thoughts in a more conscious form.

For fun, think about the things that are happening now in your life. Even the things you swear you didn’t conjure up yourself. Do some soulsearching and see if possibly you said something, even in jest, that you now realize might have returned to you the thing unwanted. I’m sure you can remember how you got the things you like and asked for, right?

For those who have explored and spoken with a consciousness of “speak as though every word were a prayer,” life has changed dramatically. Give it a whirl and see what happens!

May God bless you and all you say.

Janet Slimak, Life Coach, offers classes to help participants listen to themselves and others and learn a more conscious way to interact with their Higher Power. For information, call 352-732-LIFE (5433) or e-mail slimak3@comcast.net.

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New Year’s Resolutions (No Joke!)

by Jolaine Jones

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ew Year’s resolutions are just a joke for most of us. We’ve made, and broken, so many that we laugh to keep from crying! But it is possible to make a resolution that will make a positive change in your life—and is one you will keep.

The first step is to find a resolution you truly want to make rather than one you think you ought to make. Most of the common resolutions—lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking—are things that we’ve been told that we should do. I’m not saying that those goals are unworthy, but those goals are often just the outward manifestation of something deeper that needs to change. If the resolution is not in alignment with your own deepest desires and values, it is doomed to fail.

As a Wellness Life Coach, one of the first things I do with a new client is to help her get really clear about what she wants. She may come to me saying that she wants to lose 35 pounds and spend at least 30 minutes each day on her treadmill, but soon it becomes clear that what she really wants is to end an abusive relationship, or finish her degree, or find her life’s purpose.

In the process of reaching her heart’s desire, she will find that she is more interested in taking care of her body, but taking care of her heart must come first.

How can you tell if your resolution is from the heart? Here is one process that can help: Take a sheet of paper and draw a big plus sign on it, dividing the paper into four quadrants. Across the top of the page, write your resolution—for example, “I will stick to my diet and lose 30 pounds.”

Now, write “Current Pain” in the upper left quadrant. In this section of the paper, list everything that pains you about the current situation. You may

list things like: “I look disgusting,” “there are no nice clothes in my size,” “my spouse hassles me about my weight,” “I will die young,” etc.

Now, in the bottom right quadrant, write “Future Gain” and list all the benefits of reaching your goal. You might say things like: “I will feel beautiful,” “I can wear great clothes,” “my spouse will love me,” “I will be healthy.” You notice that the Future Gains are pretty much the opposite of the Current Pains. When we think about changing something in our life, we think about what we hate about how life is now and how wonderful life is going to be when this thing changes. But that isn’t the whole picture.

To understand if you want to change something, you have to look at the other two quadrants on this paper.

In the upper right quadrant, write “Current Gain.” How does it benefit you to not change your life? In the bottom left quadrant, write “Future Pain” and list everything it will cost you to make this happen.

If there weren’t a pain and cost involved, there would be no struggle— our goals would miraculously happen!

These two quadrants pose deeper questions that might be more difficult to find the answers to, but once you get started, they will come pouring out. The listings in these two quadrants will often reveal what your heart really wants. Maybe what you really want is to make peace with your body. Maybe you want to stop stressing about food, drop the guilt, and end the selfcriticism. Maybe you want to learn to eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re satisfied, and deal with your emotions in ways more effective than eating. This is a much more positive resolution than to put yourself on another diet. This is a resolution that you can keep, because it is nurturing, not punitive.

One definition of insanity is “doing the same things while expecting different results.” So this year, don’t do the same thing. Do something different and get positive results!

JoLaine Jones is a Certified Wellness Life Coach, creator of GenuineYou Coaching, LLC (www.genuineyou.org).

Her passion is helping women get off the diet roller coaster and create a loving, nurturing relationship with their bodies. She can be reached at 352338-8385 or jolaine@genuineyou.org.

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Be One Who Knows

by Cynthia Christianson

I

n a recent coaching session, my client said she wanted her husband to be more demonstrative in showing his love for her. She felt she needed more validation. Even though she was certain he did love her, she really wanted to have more heart-felt conversations with him. It was becoming a wedge in what was once a happy relationship.

My intuitive sense about this need was that it was more about her, than what he wasn’t giving to the relationship.

The first step I knew my client needed to do was to start with

the acceptance of what was showing up for her. Being present with what she felt was the beginning of her healing.

I knew that any judgment, critical thinking, blame or expectations only locked in what wasn’t working.

Focusing her attention, and allowing the disappointed feelings to exist without judgment, helped her to bring quiet presence in relieving the pain quite a bit. This relief opened the door for her to let go of controlling how she thought her husband should love her. Now she was able to step back, detach her emotions from a desired outcome, and become the observer in the issue instead of the subject. I could feel her relaxing, letting go of the anger she had felt before.

“What do you want to feel in this relationship?” I asked.

“I want to feel safe.” she responded.

So here we have the true issue. She thought hearing certain words from her husband would make her feel wanted, safe, or special. After more discussion and clarity, she understood what was behind this need. She understood the sponsoring thought that was driving her behavior.

“So, how do I achieve feeling safe?” she asked.

“Be the one who knows you are safe,” I responded.

I continued explaining that when you want to create change, you must be this change. You hold the space “being” this change that you want. You show up to others how you want to be treated. As you give this energy, you then can receive it from others.

The concept here, though, is to make sure you really feel this desire inside yourself first. You know, without a doubt, how good this feels and to be in this feeling is easy, effortless, and natural. It’s profoundly simple but it takes practice and a concentrated effort at first.

If you are having trouble creating this feeling you seek, you can bring it forward from a past experience where you felt this way before—or find a pet, place, person, or song that conjures up the feeling/change you are wanting.

I encourage you to apply this process to many areas of your life. If you are having trouble with a co-worker or a family member, ask yourself how you want to feel with this person. Then work on showing up this way with them and watch how they respond. It’s magical.

Being the one who knows you are loved, taken care of, trusted, believed in, respected, honored, is what our purpose here is. The more you generate energy from within first, the more the world will respond in kind, creating all sorts of wonderful changes in your life and for others too. Can you imagine the possibilities?

Start with accepting what is showing up for you, right now. Be present with these feelings and allow them to be without judgment. Ask and listen without judgment: What is sponsoring these feelings, or what is it you really want?

Then, shift or allow these feelings to show up (using the methods above) and hold the space for others to do so also.

Be the one who knows ______. You fill in the blank and have fun with this exercise.

The results are so worth it!

Cynthia Christianson, M.A., CCC, is a self-help coach based in Gainesville, FL. Visit www.AvantiCoaching.com.

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New Year’s Goals

by Sandy Wilson

H

appy New Year! What comes to mind when you hear those words? Do you say to yourself, “I’m going to keep my resolutions this year!”?

What makes this year any different than those of the past? Did any of us get a holiday gift box full of willpower?

Are our circumstances different from last year? Or the year before? Exactly what makes 2009 so unique that we will keep the resolutions we make?

In order to keep resolutions and have evidence of success, we must change something inside of us. How do we do that? We do it by changing thought patterns and beliefs, by removing the negative emotions we have attached to those aspects we wish to change. Have you been trying to lose those 20 pounds? Have you been trying to pay off debts and save some money? Have you been trying to give up smoking? Have you been trying to pass that test that keeps you from graduating or advancing? Have you been trying to improve your golf game?

Is it time to stop trying and get it done?

Research shows that the cause of unattainable change we truly desire is due to some hidden root cause with a strong emotional tie. And these root causes are usually buried beneath what we think are the reasons for broken resolutions. Does the word “resolution” itself bring up negativity?

“Goal” is a more positive word for us to start using for changes we wish to make.

How can we get to the root cause of our problem and make headway toward achieving our goals? There are many possibilities, but one of the quickest methods is EFT. EFT is painless—it is similar to acupuncture without the needles. A round of EFT begins with a set-up phrase while tapping the side of the hand, followed by repeating a reminder phrase while

tapping energy points on the face and upper body. Root causes are often uncovered and neutralized in just one EFT session. After an EFT session to neutralize emotions, we can use EFT daily to instill positive choices and to stay focused on our goal.

EFT is the painless, drug-free method to help create positive change.

Why wait? Check the website www.MasteringEFT.com to find an EFT practitioner near you and make your appointment for change today. 2009 can be the year you do attain your goals. Happy New Year!

Sandra Wilson has received the EFTAdvanced certificate. She can be reached at 352-454-8959. For more information on EFT, go to www.emofree.com.

TOTAL MIND AND BODY WORKOUT

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globalbriefs

Digit al S wit ch Digital Swit witch B e s t Ener gy Choic e s in TV Energy Choice Technologie s echnologies

A

s the mid-February deadline looms for conversion of U.S. television broadcasts to digital signals, millions of people will take advantage of the government coupon program for buying an Energy Star digital-to-analog converter for their existing set (dtv2009.gov). But others will see the switch as a signal to purchase a new TV, making it time to recycle the older set. In addition to screen size, resolution and auxiliary connections, it’s also time to consider energy use.

The Union of Concerned Scientists, at ucsusa.org/ publications/greentips, spells out the best options. First look for an Energy-Star rated model.

Then choose a rear-projection microdisplay mode (commonly known as DLP, or digital light processing).

According to a study by technology reviewer CNET, a DLP consumes only .13 watt per square inch of screen.

LDC TVs use more than twice that, at .28 watt per inch, with plasma TVs dead last at .33 watt per inch.

Other energy-saver tips: Turn off the quick start option to cut standby power consumption.

Turn down brightness settings.

Unplug the TV when not in use.

For a detailed Q&A, visit fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/ digitaltv.html. Note: Cable and satellite subscribers must contact their provider for any special equipment needs.

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globalbriefs Solar Boost: Sunshine State Breaks Ground on Big Solar Plant Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest utility, has launched construction of what it says will be the first utility-scale solar investment in the state. With a generating capacity of 75 megawatts, the solarthermal station, matched with an existing combinedcycle natural gas plant for cloudy day service, will be the second-largest of its kind in the country when fully activated in 2010. It will put out enough power to serve 11,000 homes, while preventing 2.75 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions. That’s the equivalent of keeping 18,700 cars off the road each year.

Located in Martin County, the new plant will operate via 180,000 mirrors, spread over 500 acres. FPL already operates the 310-megawatt Solar Electric Generating System in California’s Mojave Desert, the largest solar thermal plant in the world.

Projects like this will “not only do good things for the environment, but drive costs of renewable power down,” says Lew Hay, chairman and chief executive of the FPL Group. He acknowledges the higher cost of solar energy over fossil fuels.

“But you can’t just look at the cents per kilowatt today,” he adds, “because there’s a cost for fossil fuels that’s not being reflected.”

Natural TLC: Indoor Pollutants Take Toll on Pets The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recently studied 20 dogs and 40 cats, and found them contaminated with 48 of the 70 industrial chemicals for which they tested.

Average levels of many chemicals were substantially higher in the companion animals than is proportionally typical for people.

Dogs tested 2.4 times higher for perfluorochemicals, used in stain- and greaseproof coatings. Cats tested 23 times higher in fire retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs), which the Environmental Protection Agency notes may be linked to hyperthyroidism. Cats also ingest five times the amount of mercury.

“Pets’ high levels of exposure come about because they spend their days in direct contact with floors and the ground, where dust, dirt, chemicals and pesticides concentrate,” says EWG’s Jan Houlihan. She also points to a 20-year body of scientific literature, “showing that pets can be sentinels for human problems.”

Animal lovers can protect pets by: testing food and water; selecting nontoxic shampoos, flea repellents and bug repellents; housecleaning with fragrance-free natural products; placing an organic cotton towel or rug on the pet’s bed; choosing safe toys; opening windows; replacing lawn with groundcovers that need no chemicals; sticking to organic fertilizers; and supporting the banning of unsafe chemicals.

For more tips, see PetsForTheEnvironment.org/takeaction/eddiestips.

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healthbriefs

The Perks of a Happy Marriage A happy marriage comes with the unexpected advantage of lower blood pressure, say researchers at Brigham Young University (BYU). They found that happily-married adults experienced lower blood pressure than singles who have supportive social networks.

The study, newly published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, evaluated 204 married and 99 single adult volunteers who agreed to wear portable blood pressure monitors for 24 hours. “We wanted to capture participants’ blood pressure doing whatever they normally do in everyday life,” says BYU professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad, who notes that the monitors were concealed by their clothing. She adds, “Getting one or two readings in clinics is not really representative of the fluctuations that occur throughout the day.”

The volunteers also were asked to complete rosters of friends in their social networks and answer questions about the quality of their relationships with friends and spouses.

Researchers were surprised to learn that the blood pressure of adults who considered themselves in a happy marriage dipped more during sleep than that of singles. This finding is particularly important, because other research has shown that higher blood pressure throughout the night produces a much greater risk of cardiovascular problems.

Double Whammy What’s good for the heart is good for the prostate. New research suggests that men who eat a diet low in fat and red meat and high in vegetables and lean protein, and who drink alcohol in moderation, are doing both their hearts and prostates a favor.

Source: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 2008

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healthbriefs

A Spicy Approach to Diabetes Prevention Turmeric, a spice found in curries and other Asian delights, has a long history of use in reducing inflammation, healing wounds and relieving pain. Because inflammation plays a big role in various diseases, including Type 2 diabetes, scientists at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center at Columbia University Medical Center have put the rich, golden spice to the test.

The inflammation associated with obesity was shown several years ago by researchers in the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center to be due in part to the presence of immune cells called macrophages in fat tissues throughout the body. These cells produce “cytokine� molecules that can cause inflammation in organs such as the heart, and islets of the pancreas, while also increasing insulin resistance in muscle and liver. Researchers hypothesized that by suppressing the number and activity of these cells, with turmeric or a drug with similar actions, it may be possible to reduce some of the adverse consequences of obesity.

Working with obese laboratory mice, they discovered that turmeric-fed mice were less susceptible to developing Type 2 diabetes, based on measures of glucose and insulin tolerance tests. The mice also showed significantly reduced inflammation in their fat tissue and liver, compared with the non-turmeric-fed control group. The scientists speculate that these benefits can be attributed to curcumin, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substance found in turmeric that lessens insulin resistance and thus, helps protect against Type 2 diabetes.

Sources: www.cumc.columbia.edu; www.eurekalert.org, June 2008

Fibromyalgia Relief Patients suffering from the painful symptoms of fibromyalgia could benefit significantly from exercise in a heated pool, according to a new study reported in BioMed Central, an online publisher of scientific articles.

Source: Arthritis Research & Therapy, 2008

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calendarofevents JANUARY Friday, January 2 Bring In The New Year By Celebrating Your Love Couples New Years Retreat and Workshop - Jan 2, 7:30 pm-Jan 4, 1:45 pm, $595/couple.

Richard & Diana Daffner, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. www.Intimacy Retreats.com, brochure.

Mahasamadhi: A Celebration Of Service & Devotion w/Yogi Desai & staff – Jan 2-4, $150/weekend incl lodging & meals, $75/Sat only incl meals. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. 352-6853001.

Saturday, January 3 2009 Annual African Shell Divination w/Omialadora Ajamu - Jan 3, 2-6 pm, $70/year or $50. High Springs Emporium 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Annual Vision Board Goal Poster Potluck – Jan 3, 11-2 pm, bring food to share. It’s All Perfect, SE Ocala location.

352-804-9006.

Tuesday, January 6 Exercise: Get Started & Sticking With It – Jan dates; Jan 6 &13, 6-7 pm, Friendship Baptist Church, 426 NW 2 St; Jan 14, 6-7 pm, Springhill Baptist Church, 120 SE Williston Rd; Jan 28, 121 pm, Oak Park Apartments, 100 NE 8 Ave; Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Keep It Down, Blood Pressure – Jan dates; Jan 6, 6 pm, Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church, 804 SW 5 St; Jan 22, 12 pm, Springhill Baptist Church, 120 SE Williston Rd; Jan 29, 6 pm, New Salem Baptist Church, 5707 SW 62 Blvd; Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Nutrition – Jan 6 & 20, 6-7 pm.

Cornerstone Community Center, 100 Castle Dr, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Wednesday, January 7 Bowl Burning and Intention Setting for 2009 - Jan 7, 7:15 pm, Love Offering.

OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Exploring Your Mystic Gifts, Christine Rossiter - Jan 7-Feb 11, 6-8 pm,

$20, pre reg req’d. All About Art, Belleview. 352-625-6924.

Past Life Regression Playshop, Christine Rossiter - Jan 12, 11 am-2 pm, various costs, pre reg req’d, Villages College. 352-753-3035.

Thursday, January 8 The Secret to Weight Loss w/Vickie Haren - Jan 8-Feb 12, 5:30-7:30 pm, $100/6 classes, pre-reg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

Saturday, January 10 Introduction to Yoga Nidra w/Yogi Desai & Chandrakant – Jan 10-11, $150 incl lodging & meals. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. www.amrityoga.org One Heart Energy Balancing w/ Nena Elantra Roberts - Jan 10, 2-6 pm.

High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Orbs: What are they? Christine Rossiter - Jan 10, 17 & 24, 1-3 pm, $20/ class, pre reg req’d. All About Art, Belleview. 352-625-6924.

Reiki Circle w/Vickie Haren - Jan 10, 3- 4 pm, Free. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview.

352-502-3898.

Sunday, January 11 Past Life Regression w/Rev Louise Link – Jan 11, 3-7 pm, $35. Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

Qi Gong: Grounding & Connecting to the Earth w/Bill Smith - Jan 11, 1-4 pm, $20. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386454-8657.

Friday, January 16 Contacting your Angels and Guides w/Rev Louise Link - Jan 16, 6-10 pm, $90. Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

Couples Beach Retreat & Workshop - Jan 16, 7:30 pm – Jan 18, 1:45 pm, $595/couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. www.IntimacyRetreats.com, brochure.

Thai Couples Massage - Jan 16, 6-8 pm, $40/couple, no exp nec, loose clothing. Ayurveda Health Retreat. 352870-7645.

Saturday, January 17 General Health Fair - Jan 17, 12-2 pm. Springhill Baptist Church, 120 SE Williston Rd, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Introduction to: The Big Grid w/ Sharron Britton - Jan 17, 1-4 pm, $20.

High Springs Emporium 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Monday, January 19 Past Life Regression w/Vickie Haren - Jan 19, 10-1 pm, $30, pre-reg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

Monday, January 12 Displaced Homemaker Program: Focus on the Future Empowerment and Employability classes – Jan 12-30 or Feb 9-27, 8:30–12:30 pm, M-F, Free. Santa Fe Community College NW campus, Gainesville. 352-395-5047.

Manifesting Your Heart’s Desire w/ Vickie Haren - Jan 12, 10-1 pm; $30, pre-reg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352502-3898.

Open Question Psychic Call-In w/ Rev. Kim Marques – Jan 12, 3-6 pm, 10 min. Free. It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-804-9006.

Wednesday, January 21 Jesus and the Awakening to GodConsciousness 5-week class – Jan 21-Feb 18, 7–9 pm. Love Offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-6872113.

Saturday, January 24 Mexico Beach Retreat & Workshop Jan 24, 7:30 pm – Fri 2/6, $1,195/ couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, EcoTulum Resort and Spa, Yucatan, Mexico. www.IntimacyRetreats.com, brochure.

Quantum Touch Energy Healing Workshop w/Patricia Wagner - Jan 2425, 10-5 pm, $295 prepaid, Lemire Natural Family Medicine Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Bldg 90, Ocala. 352-3693029.

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calendarofevents Reiki Level Two w/Richard A Masla Jan 24, 8-4 pm, Jan 25, 8-2 pm, $250, 6 mon Reiki I pre-req. Ayurveda Health Retreat. 352-870-7645.

Self-Awareness/Self-Esteem 5 Week Workshop - Jan 24, 3-6 pm, $175.

Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

Yoga Day USA Celebration Classes w/Susan – Jan 24, 10 am, Free. Yoga for Kids & 3 pm Chair Yoga for the mat challenged. Wellness Spa of High Springs, 340 NW 1 Ave, High Springs.

386-454-8889 Sunday, January 25 The Peace of Personal Presence: Meditating with Spirit Crystals w/Nena Elantra Roberts - Jan 25, 1-3 pm, $15.

High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Universal Worship Service - Jan 25, 10 am followed by potluck, Donations.

Dancing Peacock Paradise, Ft. McCoy, 352 546-1345.

Monday, January 26 Introduction to Kinesiology w/ Vickie Haren - Jan 26, 10-1 pm, $30. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview, 352-502-3898.

Wednesday, January 28 Hypertension - Jan 28, 6-7 pm.

Springhill Baptist Church, 120 SE Williston Rd, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Saturday, January 31 Living Laughter Yoga w/Kathleen Smith Beaudreau - Jan 31, 10-4 pm, $35.

Ayurveda Health Retreat. 352-870-7645 Reiki I w/Vickie Haren - Jan 31, 9-5 pm, $85 + book, pre-reg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

Shamanic Healing w/Shenna Benarte- Jan 31, 1-4 pm & Chord Cutting Ceremony, 5 pm, $20. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

FEBRUARY Sunday, February 1 Dream Interpretation Workshop w/ Robyn Murfin-Roberts - Feb 1, 1-3 pm, $20. Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

From Recovery to Self Discovery – Feb 1, $10 incl lunch. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. www.amrityoga.org.

Tuesday, February 3 Serious As A Heart Attack – Feb dates; Feb 3, 6-7 pm, Victory Temple, 908 SE Williston Rd, Gainesville; Feb 4, 6-7 pm, Archer Church of God in Christ, 520 Busy Ave, Archer. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Wednesday, February 4 Forum – 7:15 pm, Love Offering, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala, FL, 352-629-3897 Friday, February 6 Reiki I & II Certification – Feb 6-8, $229 incl lodging & meals. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. 352-685-3001.

Wynne Paris Kirtan – Feb 6, 4-9:30 pm, Love offering. Ayurveda Health Retreat. www.AyurvedaHealth Retreat.com.

Saturday, February 7 Inner Outer Beauty Expo & New Age Fair w/Makeup, Color Demos, Weight Loss Readings, Jewelry & More – 10-4 pm, Free. It’s All Perfect at Wakeup With Makup, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-804-9006.

Relationship Reading with African Shells w/Omialadora Ajamu - 2-6 pm, Jan 3, $50. High Springs Emporium 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386454-8657.

601 NE 9 St; Feb 12, 6-7 pm, Church of God By Faith, 735 SE 15 St, Gainesville.

352-334-7900 x3600.

Wednesday, February 11 Healthy Choices Teens - Feb 11, 6-7 pm. New Beginnings Church of God by Faith, 2800 NE 59 St, Gainesville. 352334-7900 x3600.

Secondhand Smoke - Feb 11, 1-2 pm. Gainesville Job Corp, 5301 NE 40 Terr, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Thursday, February 12 Keep It Down, Blood Pressure – Feb dates; Feb 12, 12 pm, Signature Healthcare, 4000 SW 20 Ave; Feb 17, 1 pm, Gainesville Job Corp, 5301 NE 40 Terr; Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Friday, February 13 Centering Within Yoga, Meditation and Breathwork w/Monica Grey, LCSW & Ann Gill, LCSW, LMT – Feb 13, $89.

Monica Grey 352-222-8126.

Finding Love: Myths, Rituals & Practical Tips – Feb 13, 7-8:30 pm, Donation, pre reg req’d. It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352804-9006.

Rest and Renew Couples Weekend w/Savita – Feb 13-15, $129 incl lodging & meals. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. www.amrityoga.org.

Valentines’ Beach Retreat & Workshop - Feb 13, 7:30 pm – Feb 15, 1:45 pm, $595/couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. www.IntimacyRetreats.com, brochure.

Saturday, February 14 Valentine’s Day Love Mini- Readings & Massage – Feb 14, 12-6 pm, $20/15 min. High Springs Emporium 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-4548657.

Monday, February 9 Introduction to Reflexology w/ Vickie Haren - Feb 9, 10-1 pm, $30. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

Monday, February 16 EFT (Tapping Technique) w/Vickie Haren - Feb 16, 10-1 pm, $30, pre-reg.

All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-5023898.

Tuesday, February 10 Cooking for the Heart and Soul Feb 10, 6-7 pm, Open Door Ministries,

Tuesday, February 17 Diabetes Epidemic - Feb 17, 6-7 pm.

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calendarofevents Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 2905 SE 21 Ave, Gainesville.

352-334-7900 x3600.

Wednesday, February 18 Heart Disease Women – Feb 18, 6-7 pm. PASSAGE Family Church, 2020 NE 15 St, Gainesville or Greater Bethel AME Church, 701 SE 43 St, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

Friday, February 20 Heal Your Heart, Reverse Heart Disease w/Savita – Feb 2022, $129 incl lodging and meals. Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. 352-685-3001.

Saturday, February 21 Chord Cutting Ceremony w/Shenna Raven Moondance Feb 21, 5 pm, $20. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Messages from the Other Side w/Rev Louise Link - Feb 21, 6-9 pm, $35. Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

One Heart Energy Balancing w/Nena Elantra Roberts - Feb 21, 2-6 pm. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

Reiki II w/Vickie Haren - Feb 21, 9-5 pm, $85 + book, prereg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

ONGOING Sunday Celebrating Community and Inspiring Message – Sun, Meditation 9:45 am, Sharing the Science of Mind and Spirit 10:30 am, Youth Celebration 10:30 am, Love Offering.

OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. www.olec.org.

Free Opening the Heart with Hypnosis w/Madhavi – Sun, 7 pm. Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy, 4051 NW 43 St, suite 37, Gainesville. 352-283-0175.

Guided Meditation and Spiritual Lesson – Sun, 9 am & 11 am (children’s service & care 11 am only), Love Offering.

Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Prosperous Living - Sun, 6-8 pm, Free. 1135 NW 23 Ave, Suite F/2, Gainesville. www.prosperouslivinggroup.com.

Spiritual Living – Studying the Science of Mind and Spirit – 1st Sun, 2 pm, Love Offering. Call for location. 352-3369783.

Sunday Inner Peace = World Peace Services – Sun, 11 am.

Seraphim Center at the Florida School Of Massage, 6421 SW 13 St, Gainesville. 352-339-5946.

Monday, February 23 Spiritual Healing Techniques w/Vickie Haren - Feb 23, 101 pm, $30. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352-502-3898.

Tuesday, February 23 Exercise: Get Started & Sticking With It - Feb 24, 12-1 pm.

Johnson Chapel Baptist Church, 1334 NE 4 Ave, Gainesville.

352-334-7900 x3600.

Friday, February 27 Couples Beach Retreat & Workshop - Feb 27, 7:30 pm – Feb 29, 1:45 pm, $595/couple. Richard & Diana Daffner, Ocean Sands Resort and Spa, Pompano Beach (Ft. Lauderdale).

1-877-282-4244.

Saturday, February 28 3rd Quarterly Parapsychology Fair. Mystic Realms, 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-857-9398.

Reiki I Certification w/Rev Kim Marques, Reiki M/T – Feb 28, 10-5 pm, $100 incl lunch, book & 2 attunes, pre reg req’d.

It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-8049006.

Stones for the New Millennium: Sharron’s Back from Tucson w/Sharron Britton - Feb 28, 1-4 pm, $20. High Springs Emporium, 660 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs. 386-4548657.

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calendarofevents Monday Amrit Yoga w/Prakash, Prestige 55, Gentle Yoga – Mon, starts Jan 12 & Feb9, 10-11 am, member fee $25/4 classes.

Collins Health Center, Timberidge. 352-867-9660.

Amrit Yoga & Yoga Nidra w/Veda - Mon, 5:30-6:30 pm, Free. Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2 Pl, Gainesville. vedalewis@aol.com.

Free Wuji Gong Instruction w/Miranda Smith - Mon, 7 pm instruction, 7:30 pm practice. Florida Institute for Hypnotherapy, 4051 NW 43 St, Suite 37, Gainesville. 352-6426477.

Gentle Hatha Yoga Classes w/Marilyn – Mon, Gentle Yoga, 8:30-10 am, Hatha Yoga. 10:30 – noon & 7-8:30 pm, 8/$80, 8/ $56 if over 60. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28

Ave, Ocala. 352-369-0055.

Hot Yoga - Mon, Tue & Thu, 5:30-6:30 pm.

YogaByJenKing.com. 352-361-3619.

Yoga w/Pishi – Mon & Tue, 6-7 pm, $8. Yoga, Ayurveda & Meditation w/Richard – Mon & Tue, 8-9:15 am, $8. Ayurveda Health Retreat & Spa, 14616 NW 140 St, Alachua. 352-8707645.

Yoga Classes Level I Beginner w/Susan – Mon, 6-7:30 pm, $10/class. Wellness Spa of High Springs, 340 NW 1st Ave, High Springs. 386-454-8889.

ZUMBA fitness w/Shannon – Mon, Wed, Fri, 9-10 am, $5/ class. Wellness Spa of High Springs, 340 NW 1 Ave, High Springs. 386-454-8889.

Tuesday Amrit Yoga w/Prakash & Savita - Tue, 7-8:30 pm, donation.

The Amrit Yoga Institute, Salt Springs. prakash@amrityoga.org.

Amrit Yoga & Yoga Nidra w/Shivani - Tue, 9-10 am (yoga), 10:00-10:30 am (yoga nidra), Free. Turkey Creek Golf Club, Alachua. feryle.wright@sfcc.edu.

Crystal Healing – Tue, 6 pm, $15. Mystic Realms, Mystic Realms welcomes all to our 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala.

352-857-9398.

Free Beginner’s Yoga w/Lori Hunt – Tue, 7 pm. Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy, 4051 NW 43 St, suite 37, Gainesville. 352-378-5746.

Free Spiritual Reiki Mini-Sessions – Tue & Thu, by appmt.

It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-8049006.

Gluten Free Support – 2nd Tue, 6-7:30 pm. Ocala Regional Medical Center, education room #6. Jeannie Tyler 854-1100.

Hatha Yoga Classes w/Marilyn – Tue, 10–11:30 am, 8/$80, 8/$56 if over 60. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-369-0055.

Sivananda Yoga w/Vaisnavananda – Tue, 6-7 pm, $8.

Ayurveda Health Retreat, 14616 NW 140 St, Alachua. www.AyurvedaHealthRetreat.com.

Smoking Cessation Class – 2nd & 4th Tue, 3-4 pm and 1st & 3rd Wed, 6-7 pm. Alachua County Health Depart-ment, 224 SE 24th St, Gainesville. 352-334-7900 x3600.

S.T.A.R.S. (Sticking Together To Reduce Size) Weight Loss Support Group – Tue, 11:45-12:45 pm. GTEC Building, 2153 SE Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville.

The Secret to Weight Loss w/Vickie Haren, CCLC - Tue & Fri, Feb 10-27, 10-12 pm, $100/6 classes, pre-reg. All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 352502-3898.

Wealth & Abundance Support Group – 1st & 3rd Tue, 6:30 pm, Donation, pre reg sug. It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-804-9006.

Weight Loss Study Support Group – 2nd & 4th Tue, 6:30 pm, Donation, pre reg sug. It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352-804-9006.

Yoga Classes Level II Intermediate w/Susan – Tue, 6-7:30 pm, $10/class. Wellness Spa of High Springs, 340 NW 1 Ave, High Springs. 386-454-8889.

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calendarofevents Wednesday Free Anahat Meditation w/Matthew Brownstein – Wed, 6 pm. Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy/Anahat Center.

4051 NW 43 St, #37, Gainesville. 352378-5746.

Free Course in Miracles w/Matthew Brownstein – Wed, 7:15 pm. Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy/Anahat Center.

4051 NW 43 St, #37, Gainesville. 352378-5746.

Goddess Enrichment Group w/Kim Marques – Wed, 11-1 pm, $40/4 wks or $15/wk. It’s All Perfect, SE Ocala location. 352-804-9006.

Meditation and Visioning/Healing – Wed, 6-7 pm, Love Offering. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Ministerial/Ordination Training Class Intro/Orientation – Wed, Classes starting, also correspondence. Seraphim Center, Gainesville. 352-339-5946.

“Science of Mind Magazine” Article Discussion – 2nd Wed, 7:15 pm, Love Offering, OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352629-3897.

Silent Unity Meditation Service – Wed, 12-12:30 pm, Free. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-6872113.

Spiritual Enrichment – Studying the Science of Mind and Spirit– 2nd & 4th Wed, 1:30 pm, Love Offering, Lady Lake Library, 225 W Guava St, Lady Lake.

352-629-3897.

Spiritual Drumming – 3rd Wed, 7:15 pm, Love Offering. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Spiritual Film – 4th Wed, 7:15 pm , Love Offering. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

Tapping the Void: an EFT Tapping Circle – Wed, donation $10. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34 St, Gainesville. 352-283-3909.

Yoga w/Ania – Wed, 6-7 pm, $8.

Ayurveda Health Retreat & Spa. 14616 NW 140 St, Alachua. 352-870-7645.

Thursday Amrit Yoga w/Sidney - Thu, 5:30-7 pm, free. Downtown Public Library, 401

E University Ave, Gainesville. 352-3784423.

Amrit Yoga & Yoga Nidra w/Shivani Thu, 9-10 am (yoga), 10-10:30 am (yoga nidra), free. Turkey Creek Golf Club, Alachua. feryle.wright@sfcc.edu.

Hatha Yoga Classes w/Marilyn – Thu, 10:30–noon & 7-8:30 pm, 8/$80, 8/$56 if over 60. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center, 1009 NE 28 Ave, Ocala. 352369-0055.

Integrative Relaxation w/John Ernest Hiester – last Thu, 7-8:30, Free.

Downtown Public Library, 401 E University Ave, Gainesville. jehiester@amrityoga.org.

Sivananda Yoga w/Hita – Thu, 6-7 pm $8. Ayurveda Health Retreat & Spa, 14616 NW 140 St Alachua. www.AyurvedaHealthRetreat.com.

Self-Realization Fellowship Silent Meditation (practices of Paramahansa Yogananda) –Thu, 7:15 pm, Love Offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Women’s Recovery Support Group – Thu, start 1/15, 7 pm, $20. Mystic Realms, Mystic Realms welcomes all to our 3315 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala.

352-857-9398.

Yoga w/Mary Ann Holden – Thu, 6 pm, $5 love offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Friday Amrit Yoga w/Veda - Fri, 2:30-4 pm, residents Free. Oak Hammock, Williston Rd, Gainesville. vedalewis@aol.com.

Gentle Amrit Yoga w/Veda – Fri, 1112, Turkey Creek Forest Clubhouse, 441 N, Gainesville. vedalewis@aol.com.

Going Green Discussion to Save Money & the World – 4th Fri, 7-8:30 pm, donation, pre reg sug. It’s All Perfect, 2106 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala. 352804-9006.

Guided Meditations - Fri, 8-9 pm.

Soul Essentials, Ocala. Jennifer 352-2367000.

Kirtan – Devotional Singing – Fri, 89 pm, Free. Ayurveda Health Retreat & Spa, 14616 NW 140 St, Alachua.

Labyrinth for Walking Meditation – Fri, 7 pm & by apptmt, Free (call 1st).

Wellness Spa of High Springs, 340 NW 1st Ave, High Springs. 386-454-8889.

Ocala IONS Community Group for the Institute of Noetic Sciences – 1st Fri, 6:30-8:30 pm, $3. OakBrook Life Enrichment Center 1009 NE 28th Ave, Ocala. 352-732-8527.

Spiritual Cinema Night – 4th Fri, 7 pm. Love Offering. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd, Ocala. 352-687-2113.

Saturday Amrit Yoga w/Veda - Sat, 10-11 pm, $10-$12/class. Haile Plantation Community Club, 5400 SW 88 Ct, Gainesville. 352-335-1481.

Amrit Yoga & Yoga Nidra w/Veda Sat, 12-1 pm (yoga), 1-1:30 am (yoga nidra), $10 non-members. Gainesville Health & Fitness Women’s Center, Thornebrook, vedalewis@aol.com.

The “Secret” to Weight Loss Support Group with Vickie Haren; Saturdays, 9am-10pm $5 /$10, All About Art, Belleview; pre-reg; 352-502-3898 Beginning Qi Gong Class – Sat, 10:30-12 pm, Free. Prosperous Living Center, 1135 NW 23 Ave F/2, Gainesville. 352-682-0681 Cleansing “101” Workshop & Support Group w/Maryann Holden & Vickie Haren - Sat, 10-11:30 pm, Free.

All About Art/ Enrichment Room, 5162 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview. 860-3619033.

Dances of Universal Peace (Sufi Dancing) – 4th Sat, 3 pm, followed by potluck dinner & deeper dancing, Donations. Dancing Peacock Paradise, Ft. McCoy, flretreats@gmail.com.

UPCOMING Breathwork w/Monica Grey, LCSW, LMT – Mar 14, $89. 352-222-8126.

North Central Florida Holistic Healing Conference – April 25-26, $250/ 2 day, $125/1 day.

1-877-525-8388.

Calendar listings are FREE for current advertisers and for free events. $15/listing for others. 352-629-4000.

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communityresourceguide Connecting readers to leaders in natural healthcare and green living services in our community. Cost: as low as a Dollar a Day! To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com to view the media kit online, call 352-629-4000, or e-mail info@NaturalAwakeningsNCFL.com to request media kit.

HEALING FACILITATOR Christine Rossiter, MCHt 352-625-6924 1-800-376-0997 cjrossiter@yahoo.com As a healing facilitator, I assist people in discovering ways to help the spirit, mind and body heal. I use hypnosis, energy healing and education. I get to the root cause of problems. See ad, p.31.

ACUPUNCTURE

COLONICS

Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Center Elsa Archbold, AP Dipl., Acu., CH. (NCCAOM) 6160 S.W. Hwy. 200, Suite 105, Ocala 352-291-2554 Vast knowledge and experience in the field of Rehabilitation as an Occupational Therapist, Massage Therapist, Energy Healing. Training in Biofeedback with the EPFX and SCIO.

Gentle Waters Healing Center 352-374-0600, Gainesville info@gentlewatershealing.com The therapists at Gentle Waters Healing Center will assist each individual with detoxing using Colon hydrotherapy, Far Infrared Sauna, and/or Aqua Chi Lymphatic Drainage. We also carry probiotics, digestive enzymes, and other products for overall health. Proud sponsors of Barley Life Nutritional Products. Call Dawn Brower for more information or visit www.gentlewatershealing.com. See ad, p.45.

Alachua Health Services at Stillpoint Dr. Wm. Scott Barnett, AP, PT 2730 N.W. 39th Ave., Gainesville 352-376-1320 Full Service Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Chiropractic, Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, all in one beautiful relaxed setting. If you have insurance, Medicare or are injured, you can choose where you receive your care. Be proactive, call today! Visit www.Alachua HealthServices.org. See ad, p.16.

ANIMAL HEALTH Dr. H. Himani Das, DVM Managing Animals Naturally, Inc. P.O. Box 39, Reddick, FL 32686 352-629-8122 M.A.N., Inc. is dedicated to providing the best holistic veterinary care for horses, including Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Chinese Herbs and Nutritional support.

Aaron Perry, AP, LMT Life Family Practice Center 1501 U.S. Hwy. 441 North The Villages / 352-750-4333 Focusing on your health and well being, I integrate acupuncture, massage, homeopathy, colonics and NAET (allergy elimination) to enhance your quality of life.

Medicare, Insurance accepted.

See ad, p.3.

HOLISTIC MEDICINE Nelson Kraucak, MD, ABCMT Life Family Practice Center 1501 U.S. Hwy. 441 North The Villages / 352-750-4333 Look into Holistic Integrative Medicine for your health.

Chelation is a holistic approach for heavy metal toxicity and is believed to benefit those with heart disease. Neurotherapy, acupuncture, and many other services available. See ad, p.3.

Hanoch Talmor, M.D. Gainesville Holistic Center 352-377-0015 www.betterw.com We support all health challenges and the unlimited healing potential of God’s miracle: your body. Chelation, Nutrition, Cleansing, Homeopathy, Natural Energy Healing, Detoxification, Wellness Education and more. See ad, p.28.

EFT HYPNOTHERAPY Sandra Wilson, EFT-Adv, MCHt Emotional Freedom Techniques Practitioner/ Hypnotherapist 352-694-7255 / www.SandraWilson.org With EFT, you’re just a tap away from a positive change! Improve abundance. Remove anger and fear. Improve self-esteem.

Improve test and sports scores.

See article p.31, and ad p.35.

Matthew Brownstein, CHt Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy and Associates 352-378-5746 / 800-551-9247 www.tfioh.com / info@tfioh.com Offering the complete line of hypnotherapy services and statelicensed training to become a clinical certified hypnotherapist.

Free lectures occur every month.

See article p.20, and ad p.21.

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communityresourceguide Sonya Lamarre, CHt 352-239-3557, www.OcalaHypnotherapy.com We believe everyone can benefit from hypnosis whether for relaxation or working with physical and emotional issues. See us for incredible long-lasting life changes. See ad, p.43.

JEWELRY REPAIR AND LOANS Frank Cafaro Jeweler and Pawn 5445 S.E. 111 St. (Hwy. 441 behind Checkers) Belleview, FL 34420 352-454-2791 Need cash now? Let your Gold, Need Silver, Costume Jewelry, Crystals or other ??? work for you!

Cash Expert jewelry repair on Gold, Now? Silver, and some Costume and Crystal jewelry. On site repairman with respect and concern to necessary time and elemental setting. Whileyou-wait and watch Appointments available.

Always a nice variety of Replacement Gemstones and Crystals in stock. We buy or You Can Trade your unwanted pieces for something from our vast unusual inventory, or you can take a short-term loan using one of your pieces as collateral. Mention this ad for 15% off any repair or loan charge.

LIFE COACHES Cynthia Christianson, MA Certified Personal and Professional Coach www.avanticoaching.com 352-374-7982 I help you create the conditions to spontaneously reclaim your joy. I offer one free 30-minute coaching session. See the article “Be One Who Knows,” p.30.

Vickie Haren , CCLC, CCHt 352-502-3898 / www.VickieHaren.com Office and classroom: All About Art/ 5162 SE Abshier Blvd. (Hwy 441), Belleview Vickie is a holistic health educator and co-owner of Endless Journey Retreats.

Clinically Certified as a Life Coach and Holistic Health Practitioner with studies in Hypnosis, Reflexology, Reiki (Master/ Teacher), Neuro Linguistic Programming, Non-Directive Imagery, EFT, Body Talk, Psych-K and Somatic Healing. “I believe that healing and self-empowerment occurs when the underlying emotional component of an illness or condition is released through education, holistic practices and spiritual counseling.”

Rev. Kim Marques, CHt, Reiki M/T 2106 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 352-804-9006 Change your vibe, change your life!

Free Info and Spiritual Energy by appointment. Embrace the mind, body and spirit with hypnosis, energy sessions and training, spiritual guidance, Life Wise workshops and support groups, meditation, Goddess Weight Loss, attraction power kits and more. See ad, p.35.

MASSAGE Tiara L. Catey, LMT Center for Balance 1705 N.W. 6th St., Gainesville 352-642-4545 / www.TiaraCatey.com Cultivate joy in your life by including Nurturing Massage as an essential part of your selfcare practices. Cherish yourself! Relaxation and Therapeutic Massage, Lomilomi, Shiatsu, Energy modalities.

MA41831

Clark Dougherty Therapeutic Massage Clinic 850 N.E. 36th Terr., Ocala 352-694-7255 / www.ClarkDougherty.com Offering a variety of therapeutic massage techniques for pain relief, improved flexibility, and other terrific benefits. PIP and WorkComp always accepted, also group/private insurance in some instances. All credit cards accepted.

Gift Certificates available. See ad, p.3.

MA27082, MM9718.

PERSONAL FITNESS Hip Moves Fitness Studio Rona Bennett, BS, CPT Holistic Health, Personal Fitness Coaching 708 N.W. 23rd Ave., Gainesville www.hipmoves.com / 352-692-0132 An intimate fitness studio focusing on creativity and holistic health. Classes and private lessons in Belly Dance, Yoga, Pilates, and Personal Training. Rental space available.

PSYCHIC MEDIUM Rev. Louise Link, ADL, UMC, Spiritualist Clairvoyant Channel, Readings and Spirit Messages. 352-378-9943 / Gainesville linklouise@bellsouth.net The Link to your Angels, Guides and Loved Ones in Spirit. More than 25 years’ experience in Metaphysical Research, Education and Spirit Communication. Bringing you Spirit Messages and Healing from your Loved Ones. Readings, Counseling, Classes. Your Spirit Link!

BUILD YOUR HOLISTIC PRACTICE OR GREEN BUSINESS

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF A THRIVING PRACTICE IN 2009.

Advertise! 352-629-4000.

Advertise! 352-629-4000.

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communityresourceguide REFLEXOLOGIST

SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE

Integrated Reflexology and Massage Shayla Blalock, LMT MA51495 Certified Reflexologist 352-871-1944 / www.IntegratedReflexology.com “The soles of the feet are the mirror of the body.” Reflexology improves circulation, cleanses the body of toxins, and balances the whole system. Documented studies show it to be helpful with diabetes, neuropathy, insomnia, and more.

Call Shay Blalock for information.

Rev. Dr. Janet Claire Moore, Medium, DDMS 352-373-8047 JCMoore1@Gmail.com Extraordinary Psychic, Medium, Teacher and Channeler, as well as an Ordained Minister, Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 36 years’ experience. See ad, p.40.

YOGA ROLFING Carol L. Short Certified Advanced Rolfer™, Craniosacral Therapist Gainesville and North Central FL 352-318-0509 Rolfing® is a system of body restructuring through systematic manipulation of muscle and fascial tissues. It promotes the release and realignment of long standing patterns of tension and dysfunction, bringing the body to greater balance, mobility, vitality, and ease. A holistic approach to mobility, vitality and balance. MA16337/MM18921.

Hot Yoga Big Ron’s Yoga College 519-D NW 10th Ave., Gainesville 352-367-8434 / www.bigronsyoga.com Total physical and mental conditioning. 100 minutes, 100° heated class. All fitness levels welcome. Certified instructors. Unlimited classes only $100 per month. Visit www.bigronsyoga.com for schedule. See ad, p.31.

COMING IN THE NEXT ISSUE Holistic careers, Part Two: Costs Length of study Where to go for training State licensing requirements

Emotional well-being: Physical things you can do to help your mental/emotional life Relationships Create the life you want

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Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!

Theodor Geisel (“Dr. Suess”)

Every tomorrow has two handles.

We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith.

Henry Ward Beecher

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