Natural Awakenings Ocala/Gainesville December 2019

E R F

E

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

JOYFUL GIVING How Generosity Transforms Us

Building Better Bones How to Eat and Move for Bone Health

The Evolution of Community

Gathering to Make a Difference

December 2019 |

Ocala/Gainesville FL | GoNaturalAwakenings.com

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from publisher

Hi Everyone!

A

OCALA/GAINESVILLE FLORIDA

s this year comes to an end, I would like to extend my sincerest wishes to you and yours for a happy holiday and PUBLISHER Sheila Mahan wish you all a very happy new year. A special thanks goes out to EDITOR Martin Miron Martin M., Martin F., Chelsea, Nancy and everyone at the cor DESIGN & PRODUCTION Martin Friedman porate office for their continued support that allows us to create

Chelsea Rose a monthly publication where each issue is better than the last.

Since taking on the role of publisher four months ago, I CONTACT US envisioned adding content that truly reflects what sets our local Ph: 352-366-0088 GoNaturalAwakenings.com community apart from the rest. Because Ocala is the “horse capital of the world”, it made Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com sense to add an equine section to highlight topics from holistic horse care to horseassisted therapy for humans. Our very first equine article, by Nancy DeVault, discusses SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available for $24 the benefits of equine yoga as practiced by certified yoga therapist Melissa Montilla, of (for 12 issues) email the address above.

Sanctuary Yoga, in Gainesville. You’ll also find an equine events calendar that will be Digital subscriptions are free visit our website to sign up. continuously updated. I am excited to anticipate the growth of this section in the coming year and invite you to be a part of it by submitting your stories and events.

Also in this month’s issue, we feature the importance of community in Linda NATIONAL TEAM Sechrist’s article, “The Emerging Power of We’: Awakening to the Evolution of Com CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman munity.” Here you’ll find a compelling argument that collective wisdom, collaborative COO/ FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne change and the need to evolve from a culture of “me” to a culture of “we” may be the

NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth key to addressing the major challenges that confront humankind. I am a firm believer

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist that we are stronger as a community made up of individuals that work together to NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ward common goals.

ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert

We focus on nourishing ourselves with Earth-friendly holiday practices from FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs updating family traditions and serving vegan treats to reducing food waste and choos WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy ing safe and eco-smart pet toys. The holidays are a great time to start new traditions that NATIONAL ADVERTISING Lisa Doyle are health-conscious and promote sustainability. My family and I are going to try and Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation use fewer plastics and more recyclable/reusable items. What new traditions will you be 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 starting this season?

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Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Happy Holidays and enjoy your December issue!

Sheila Mahan

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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Contents 14 THE MERRY VEGAN

14

People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets

17 WASTE-FREE FEASTING How to Reduce Holiday Food Waste

18 PRESENCE IS THE BEST PRESENT FOR PEOPLE AND THE EARTH

20 THE EMERGING POWER OF ‘WE’

26

Awakening to the Evolution of Community

22 SURGEON MARY NEAL On Lessons From Heaven

23 THE GENEROUS HEART How Giving Transforms Us

26 REFRESH HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Making the Old New and Green

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28 INHALING THE ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 352-366-0088 or email Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

JOY OF LIFE

Conscious Breathwork

30 BEYOND CALCIUM Full-Spectrum Bone Health

32 PERFECT PET PRESENTS Safe and Eco-Smart Toys

DEPARTMENTS 6 news briefs 7 kudos 8 health briefs 10 global briefs 13 eco tip 17 green living 22 wise words 23 inspiration

24 equine

spotlight 25 equine events 28 fit body 30 healing ways 34 calendar 37 resource guide 38 classifieds December 2019

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news brief

Hogtown Downtown Holiday Treats

T

he annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., December 7, at the historic Thomas Center, in Gainesville, featuring a visit from Santa, caroling and holiday music from local groups and light refreshments. The Duck Pond Neighborhood Association sparkles with luminaries lit for the occasion. The heart of the celebration comprises the holiday decorations on the giant tree and around the building, which are annually provided by Thomas Center associates.

Participants will rock out the old and ring in the new with friends at Bo Diddley Plaza for the Gainesville Downtown Countdown on December 31. The concert will begin at 9:30 p.m. and run until 12:30 a.m. At the stroke of midnight, noisemakers distributed to the audience earlier in the evening will herald the New Year.

Admission is free. Locations: Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave.; Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. For more information, call Gainesville Parks Recreation and Cultural Affairs at 352-334-5067.

Maintain, Don’t Gain15 Holiday Challenge

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lorida Department of Health in Marion County is partnering with the Active Marion Project and North Carolina State University to offer a free Maintain, Don’t Gain!

Holiday Challenge through December 31. It provides tips, tricks, and support to help participants maintain their weight throughout the holidays.

They get weekly newsletters, challenges and healthy holiday recipes via email, along with social media support. Employers can obtain worksite holiday challenge guides and marketing materials to encourage participation at their businesses. The challenge will focus on topics like holiday nutrition, stress management, sleep and physical activity.

Health educator Jessie Driggers says, “Fun, family, friends and get-togethers tend to also bring decadent foods, high-calorie drinks and stress, so it’s not uncommon for the average person to struggle with weight maintenance and health from November to January. Many Americans gain between one to five pounds during the holiday season.”

First, visit SurveyMonkey.com/r/Y7SDTBK, then register at esmmweighless.com/sign and join Active Marion Project’s Facebook page to be eligible for prizes at Tinyurl. com/AMP-Holiday-Challenge. For more information, call 352-644-2624.

Global Peace Dance to End the Year

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n International Network for the Dances of Universal Peace New Year’s Eve Global Peace Dance led by DiAnahita will take place on December 31 at United Church of Gainesville Doors open at 7 p.m.; dancing begins at 7:30 until 10 p.m..

She says, “In a sacred and joyful candlelit atmosphere, live music, singing and dancing bring the year to closure and welcome the new as we ring bells in a spirit of harmony and optimism. The simple, multicultural, interfaith circle dances will be taught and everyone joins in.” No experience or partner is necessary.

Admission is a $10 donation. Location: 1624 NE 5th Ave., Gainesville. For more information, call 352 546-1345, email FLRetreats@gmail.com or visit PeacockParadise.org.

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Three Weeks of Profound Workshops at Cabo Breath Fest

I

n celebration of Natural Awakenings’ commitment to promoting higher consciousness during the last 25 years, the Cabo Breath Fest will offer many life-changing workshops plus other activities from February 1 to 21, in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

Some of the 20-plus international experts offering workshops include event founder Dan Brule, author, breathwork pioneer the creator of Breath Therapy; Stig Avall Severinsen, champion free diver and author of the bestselling book Breatheology – The Art of Conscious Breathing; Dr. Jim Morningstar, author and founder of the School of Integrative Psychology; and Lena Kristina Tuulse, Breathwork pioneer and author of Passion for Life, who introduced conscious breathing to much of Europe.

As this historic event is a co-creation of the trainers and guests, attendees are also invited to make presentations during some of the 100 available sessions. There’ll also be yoga on the beach, drumming circles, concerts, social gatherings, great food, dances, art and other enriching activities.

Tickets: $100 for any or all workshops.

For more information, tickets and cheap accommodations, call 800-5687957 or visit CaboBreathFest.com or Facebook.com/cabobreathfest.

kudos The Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA) has formed a new partnership with the Kautter Wenhold Management Group, LLC (KWMG), in Altamonte Springs, to provide timely and efficient professional services and support to the organization’s 20 chapters in the areas of continuing education, career development, community support, and legislative advocacy.

FSMTA President Joyce Prahasky says, “I am confident this new collaboration with KWMG will provide the stable structure we need for FSMTA’s longstanding institutional activities as well as a springboard for new and exciting developments we haven’t even imagined yet.”

For more information, visit fsmta.org.

What a

to sitesee!

NATURAL AWAKENINGS HAS A NEW WEBSITE GoNaturalAwakenings.com

of World Premiere

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Carol Christmas usic Hall M m h lis ha ra ng An E Ricky G son Lyrics by fery Rober ef J Book and by l ia gis er ar at H M e l

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thehipp.org •(352)-375-4477•25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville, FL 32601 thehipp.org •(352)-375-4477•25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville, FL 32601 SCROOGE IN ROUGE was originally presented at Le Chat Noir, New Orleans, on December 7, 2007.

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December 2019

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Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight to Lower Cataract Risk A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition used adherence to dietary guidelines and total diet scores to assess the effects of diet on cataract risk.

The researchers followed 2,173 older Australians for five and 10 years in two phases. They found that maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) of less than 25, combined with a healthy diet, reduced the risk of developing cataracts.

Eat a Better Diet to Improve Gut Bacteria Researchers at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center tested stool samples of 858 men and 877 women in Los Angeles and Hawaii with a mean age of 69—regarded as an ethnically diverse study population with varied food intakes. The study found that those with higher quality diets also had significantly better gut bacteria diversity, a factor linked to reduced risk for a variety of diseases. Diet quality and a reduced risk of developing chronic disease is strongly associated with fecal microbial diversity.

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New research offers potential paths for treatment for the nearly 20 percent of patients with high blood pressure that don’t respond well to medications. University of Florida College of Medicine researchers, testing 105 volunteers, found that the populations of gut bacteria differed between hypertensive individuals with depression and those without depression. A second study by Italian researchers found that patients with heart attacks had different bacteria in their guts than patients with stable angina.

Hong Vo/Shutterstock.com

Researchers followed more than 36,000 Japanese men older than 40 for an average of 13.2 years.

They found that those that consumed culinary mushrooms three times a week had a 17 percent lower chance of developing prostate cancer compared to those that ate mushrooms less than once a week. Participants that ate mushrooms once or twice a week had an 8 percent lower risk. The trend was even greater for those men over the age of 50 and was unrelated to other dietary habits.

SK Design/Shutterstock.com

Eat Mushrooms to Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer

Reduce Blood Pressure and Heart Attacks With Better Gut Bacteria

Train Students in Mindfulness to Reduce Stress and Improve Grades Sixth-graders that received mindfulness training each day for eight weeks experienced lower stress levels, less depression and improved academic performance compared to their peers in a control group that studied computer coding, report Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers. In addition to that 100-student study, researchers surveyed 2,000 students in grades five through eight and found those that showed more mindfulness tended to have better grades and test scores. They also had fewer absences and suspensions.

Daxiao Productions/Shutterstock.com

health briefs

dencg/Shutterstock.com

Marry to Halve the Risk of Dementia

Diabetes Is a Serious Public Health Risk

Wedlock tends to stave off dementia, according to a new Michigan State University study. Analyzing 14 years of data on 15,000 people older than 52, researchers found those in all unmarried groups—cohabiting, divorced, separated, widowed and never married—had significantly higher odds of developing dementia than their married counterparts. The differences were most acute for those divorced, separated or widowed—about twice as prone as married people to develop dementia, with the men faring worse cognitively than the women.

In Florida, it is estimated that more than 2.4 million people have diabetes and more than 5.8 million have prediabetes. Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death for all races according to state data. The number of people diagnosed with diabetes has more than tripled in the last 20 years in the U.S.

“Diabetes is one of the significant health challenges our community will continue to face in the years ahead.

The good news is that it’s easy to identify if you are at risk for diabetes, and there are simple changes you can make in your day-to-day life that can help prevent the onset of diabetes or manage your diabetes if you already have it,” says Mark Lander, Florida Department of Health Marion County administrator.

There isn’t a cure yet for the disease, but a healthy lifestyle can reduce its impact on the lives of those who have it. Thanks to better treatments, people with diabetes are now living longer with a better quality of life than ever before. The three most common types of diabetes are Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant). Prediabetes can lead to Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, but it’s a lifelong condition. If people have this type of diabetes, the body does not make insulin, so individuals must take insulin every day.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In this form, the body does not make or use insulin well. In those that have Type 2 diabetes, the body generally produces less and less insulin over time. This means that they may need to start using insulin or taking other medications to keep diabetes under control.

Gestational diabetes occurs when a woman is pregnant, and is caused by a change in the way the body responds to insulin during pregnancy. This change results in elevated levels of blood glucose. A woman that has gestational diabetes during pregnancy is at greater risk for Type 2 diabetes later.

Prediabetes occurs when a person’s blood glucose levels are elevated, but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Prediabetes is a serious health condition that increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It’s estimated that 86 million Americans have prediabetes, but only one in 10 realizes it. Prediabetics are five to 15 times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than people with normal blood glucose levels.

A blood test from a health care provider can determine if someone has diabetes or prediabetes. Early treatment can prevent serious problems such as loss of eyesight, kidney damage, stroke, nerve damage and foot problems.

Extreme Weather Events Affect Mental Well-Being People that experience storm and flood damage to their homes are about 50 percent more likely to experience depression and anxiety, British researchers report. Surveying more than 7,500 people after the 2013-2014 season of severe weather, they found that those with homes damaged by wind, rain, snow or floods had mental health risks similar to living in a disadvantaged area. This occurred even when the effects of the extreme weather were relatively minor and did not force people to leave their homes.

Fascinadora/Shutterstock.com

Eat Nuts to Reduce Odds of Death From Heart Disease Adults that ate nuts two or more times per week had a 17 percent lower risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke, reports an Iranian study that followed 5,432 adults for 12 years. The research was presented in August at the European Society of Cardiology.

“Nuts are a good source of unsaturated fat and contain little saturated fat,” says study author Dr. Noushin Mohammadifard, of the Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute. “They also have protein, minerals, vitamins, fiber, phytosterols and polyphenols which benefit heart health.”

For more information, call Florida Department of Health public information officer Christy Jergens at 352-6442677 or email Christy.Jergens@FLHealth.gov Desk. Take a risk test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org.

December 2019

9

Nature Cure

global briefs

Making Meat Without Animals

Five major food technology companies have converged to form the Alliance for Meat, Poultry and Seafood (AMPS) Innovation, which seeks to create real meat from animal cells without the need to slaughter animals. The founding members of the coalition are both cell-based seafood companies BlueNalu and Finless Foods and meat makers Fork & Goode, San Francisco-based JUST Inc., and Memphis Meats.

AMPS Innovation (ampsinnovation.org) intends to tackle obstacles presented in the cellular agriculture industry and bring products to the consumer faster with transparency and proper regulatory frameworks for cell-based products. Each member company has made significant strides in the development of these products with the hope they will soon be options in the everyday diets of individuals, as well as a nutrition source for a human population projected to grow to 10 billion by 2050.

A new study based on the National Land Cover Database of 3,086 of the 3,103 counties in the continental U.S. published in the journal Urban Forestry and Urban Greening found that increases in forest and shrub cover corresponded to decreases in Medicare health care spending, even when accounting for economic, geographic or other factors that might independently influence healthcare costs.

Urban and rural counties with the lowest socioeconomic status appeared to benefit the most from increases in forests and shrubs. University of Illinois graduate student Douglas A. Becker, who led the new research with Matt Browning, a professor of recreation, sports and tourism, says, “It occurred to me that low-income communities are getting the biggest bang for their buck because they probably have the most to gain.”

Other studies have shown that people in intensive care units recover more quickly and have fewer complications after surgery if their hospital rooms look out over trees rather than parking lots and that forest walks can influence potentially health-promoting hormone levels or anti-cancer immune cells in the blood.

BK foto/Shutterstock.com

Lab Steak

Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com

Forests and Shrubs Lower Medical Costs

Charge It

The RS Automotive gas station, in Takoma Park, Maryland, has been around since 1958, and Depeswar Doley has been running it for 22 years. Now, frustrated by the complicated rules, requirements

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and contracts of oil and gas companies, he has completely transitioned away from offering petroleum and become the country’s first exclusively electric vehicle (EV) charging station.

Because there has been a shortage of EV charging stations in the state, the station’s changeover was partially funded by the Baltimore-based

Electric Vehicle Institute and the Maryland Energy Administration. Its new 200-kilowatt electrical system will now be able to recharge up to four vehicles at a time while drivers wait inside. Doley says, “It’s not something that I expect to become rich overnight or something like that, but it’s a good cause [and] good for the environment.”

Petair/Shutterstock.com

Electric Vehicles Get Their Own ‘Gas’ Station

Animal Rescue

Lung Relief

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler has signed a directive reducing the animal testing that the agency has long required on such animals as dogs, birds, rats and fish to gauge the toxicity of chemicals before they can be bought, sold or used in the environment. The agency also authorized $4.25 million in funding for five universities to research the development and use of alternative test methods and strategies that reduce, refine or replace vertebrate animal testing. He says, “Today’s memo directs the agency to aggressively reduce animal testing, including reducing mammal study requests and funding 30 percent by 2025 and completely eliminating them by 2035.”

Any mammal studies requested or funded by the EPA after 2035 will require administrator approval on a case-by-case basis. It directs leadership and staff in the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention and the Office of Research and Development to prioritize and direct existing resources toward measurable impacts in the reduction of animal testing while ensuring protection of human health and the environment.

A 2016 study at the University of British Columbia revealed that air pollution is the fourth-leading cause of death worldwide, with at least 5.5 million air pollutionrelated fatalities every year.

A new cultivation system developed by researchers from Imperial College London collaborating with the startup Arborea have created the world’s first Biosolar Leaf technology to purify and improve the air in London. They hope it’ll boost environmental outcomes not only in the UK, but all over the world. The process works by purifying the air through photosynthesis of microscopic plants, which removes the greenhouse gases from the environment and generates breathable oxygen at the same time.

The startup’s innovative cultivation system can facilitate the growth of microalgae, phytoplankton and diatoms on large, solar panel-like structures that can be installed on buildings and other infrastructure to improve the quality of the atmosphere. Arborea’s cultivation system also creates a sustainable source of organic biomass from which nutritious food additives can be extracted for plant-based food.

laymanzoom/Shutterstock.com

Tati9/Shutterstock.com

Government Order Reduces Animal Testing

Heave Ho

Photo Port/Shutterstock.com

Worachat Sodsri/Shutterstock.com

Cruise Line Abandons Plastic Bottles

As a result of its partnership with Just Goods, Inc., the Norwegian Cruise Line will replace single-use plastic bottles across its fleet by January 1, 2020, beginning with the Norwegian Encore. The company’s ships will feature JUST, which is 100 percent spring water in a plant-based carton made of 82 percent renewable materials from trees grown in responsibly managed forests. The cap and shoulder are made from a sugarcane-based plastic. It’s refillable and recyclable.

Just Goods, located in Glen Falls, New York, has a global presence with bottling facilities in New York, Northern Ireland and Australia, allowing the company to meet demand around the world without shipping water from a single production source. It plans to replace more than 6 million single-use plastic bottles every year. CEO Ira Laufer says, “The company is pushing the boundaries of what’s always been done because it knows we all need to do better.”

Biosolar Leaf Purifies Air in London

Repurposing Weeds

Pond Plants Offer Protein Strategy

Fast-growing lemna, or duckweed, a flowering green plant that blooms on the surface of still and slow-moving bodies of water that is often mistaken for algae, is finding new utility as a protein source. California-based Plantible Foods claims that duckweed, traditionally the enemy of pond owners, is superior to other alternative proteins like pea, wheat and soy. The unusual crop naturally contains higher amounts of the complete protein RuBisCo and is easier to digest than some other popular plant proteins. It can be used as a substitute for egg white, is free of the top eight allergens and has a neutral color and taste. Due to its rapid growth, duckweed is less vulnerable to climate change. Plantible Foods co-founder Tony Martens says that duckweed grows reliably and can typically be harvested daily, no matter what the weather may be.

December 2019

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eco tip

Burn Notice

Safe and Sustainable Fireplace Practices

One of the charms of winter is enjoying the warmth and glow of indoor fireplaces and wood stoves. It also emphasizes the need for sustainable, safe and healthy practices—especially when it comes to maintaining air quality.

Try to buy wood from providers that use good forest management practices such as harvesting during sustainable months, reports WoodHeat.org. Environmentally sound woodlot operations include thinning out dying, less desirable and damaged trees, and including a blend of species.

“Have a high-efficiency, properly installed stove that meets local building codes that’s sized for the area to be heated,” says Brad Harr, senior environmental scientist and president of Summit Environmental Inc., in Boise, Idaho. “Use dry, 10 to 12 percent wood moisture. Water sucks up heat to get to combustion temperature. Run at

high heat, generally over 1,000° F in the firebox, to effect complete combustion of the wood and gases.”

Denser woods such as ironwood, rock elm, hickory, oak and sugar maple burn longer and conserve resources.

Use a higher British thermal unit (BTU) per cord of wood to maximize heat production. (WorldForestIndustries.com has tips per region.)

Harr adds, “Don’t starve the fire to extend burning time, as smoldering can cause incomplete combustion.”

This leads to more carbon monoxide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) being released that can cause flu-like symptoms, and at high levels, unconsciousness and even death. To help maintain proper airflow and prevent soot buildup, shovel excess ash into a covered metal container, store it outside and dispose of it in a few days.

Smelling smoke can indicate the fireplace may be backdrafting and needs to be inspected. Harr also suggests checking periodically for potential cracks or rusting in the joints of a stovepipe. Make sure children and the elderly don’t accidentally touch the stove while in use and keep furniture a suitable distance away. Periodic inspections by a professional can address potentially dangerous creosote (tar deposit) accumulations, assure the catalytic converter is operating correctly and detect trapped debris in escape shafts that can force toxic gases back into the home and clog spark-arresting screens on tops of stovepipes or chimneys.

If buying a new unit, make sure it’s U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-certified, which requires two-thirds less wood to generate heat and emits fewer harmful particles—two to seven grams per hour—compared with 15 to 30 grams for models manufactured before 1992, according to MotherEarthLiving.com.

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December 2019

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conscious eating

Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy.

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In addition to medical offices and local businesses, Natural Awakenings magazine can be picked up at the following locations: The Diner 645 NW Santa Fe Blvd, High Springs Sunflower Health Foods 3424 W. University Ave, Gainesville McCalisters 3236 SW 35th Blvd, Gainesville The Bagel Bakery 4113 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville Wards 515 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville Fairy Dust Crystals & Such 11781 SE Hwy 441, Belleview Belleview Library 13145 SE CR 484, Belleview The Vitamin Shoppe 480 N US 441, Lady Lake Too Your Health 995 HWY 441, Lady Lake Freedom Library 5870 SW 95th St, Ocala B-Healthy 8449 SW Hwy 200, #139, Ocala Marion County Tax Collector 503 SE 25th Ave, Ocala Marion County Public Library 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala Earth Origins 1917 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala Silver Springs Ace Hardware 2015 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala Thoroughbred Hardware & Feed 250 SE County Hwy 484, Ocala

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~Pamela Reed

THE MERRY VEGAN

People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets

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by Julie Peterson

he holidays may send too many sugar plums and frosted gingerbread figures dancing in the heads of people with dietary restrictions. Anyone that chooses to avoid highly processed flours or sugars, artificial ingredients and loads of butter will typically be presented with all of this and more at social gatherings this time of year. They arrive on visually appealing cookie platters that tempt with their cute shapes, vibrant colors and sparkle.

Some, like the gingerbread and reindeer cutouts, will beckon with glazed eyes: “Just one,” they whisper. But one can turn into nine and make someone that may normally avoid sugar or gluten feel bodily regrets. Someone that is vegan or allergic may feel they can’t have treats.

Making healthier choices about food is difficult for reasons many don’t understand. “People have relationships with food—involving family, comfort and traditions—and they don’t want to give that up,” says James Brandon, of Tampa, founder of Facebook’s Vegan and PlantBased Beginner’s Community. Brandon says that holiday treats are tough to resist, but staying true to health goals is most important in the long run.

The best defense to avoid frustration at social food events is to bring a dish to

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share that meets your dietary needs, says Megan Gilmore, the author of No Excuses Detox: 100 Recipes to Help You Eat Healthy Every Day and a blogger at Detoxinista. com. “That way, you can introduce something delicious to your friends, family or co-workers and be sure you’ll have something to eat!”

A batch of simple, delectable, visually appealing and healthful cookies can be that plate to share, a gift to give or something to keep on hand for guests. Keep the focus on simple, advises Pamela Reed, who blogs at BrooklynFarmGirl.com. There are plenty of recipes that will satisfy the sweet tooth and decorate the holiday buffet (until they’re all eaten, that is). Don’t increase holiday stress by trying a new recipe at the last minute.

“Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy,” she says.

Transitioning to a more conscious way of eating isn’t about deprivation or leaving tradition behind. Bring on the new and healthful cookie recipes and name one after your grandma.

Julie Peterson writes from her home in rural Wisconsin. Contact her at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

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NATURAL AWAKENINGS IS

Oh-So-Healthy Holiday Treats Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Gluten Free)

photo by Pamela Reed

Yields: About 18 cookies 1 cup creamy peanut butter ½ cup coconut sugar ½ cup brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla ⅔ cup oat flour 1 tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt ¼ cup almond milk Additional sugar to roll cookies in Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and sugars with a hand mixer. Once combined, add vanilla and continue mixing.

Add flour, baking soda, salt and almond milk into the bowl and mix for a few seconds, until combined. The cookie dough will be a little crumbly.

Prepare 2 cookie sheets with silicone baking sheets or spray with nonstick spray. Roll the dough into large balls, and then gently roll in sugar to cover them. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie a little bit—not too much, or they will crumble.

Bake cookies for 12 minutes. Once out of the oven, allow to cool for 15 minutes. This is important, as the cookies will be very soft when they come out of the oven, but they will harden up as they cool.

Store in an airtight container or freeze.

Recipe courtesy of BrooklynFarmGirl.com.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible.

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.com

Yields: 12 balls

Note: If you’d prefer to roll the balls in coconut sugar or shredded coconut, roll them in one of those options before freezing, so the coating will stick better.

Chocolate Topping: ¼ cup cocoa powder ¼ cup melted coconut oil 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup

Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to two weeks for best texture.

Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper and set it aside. In a medium bowl, stir together the chocolate crust ingredients until a moist dough is formed. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the lined loaf pan and place it in the freezer to set.

Source: Detoxinista.com/no-bake-pecansnowballs-paleo-vegan

1 cup pecan halves ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted (about 10 dates) 1 Tbsp coconut oil ½ tsp sea salt ½ tsp vanilla extract ½ cup arrowroot or tapioca starch Extra arrowroot for dusting, or coconut sugar Place the pecans and shredded coconut in a large food processor fitted with an “S” blade, and process until the pecans are broken down and crumbly. Add in the rest of the ingredients and process again, until a sticky dough is formed. (It should stick together when pressed between two fingers.)

Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons and roll the dough between your hands, forming balls. Arrange the balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then place them in the freezer to

To prepare the filling, you can use the same bowl to stir the peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil and salt. Depending on whether you’re using salted or unsalted peanut butter, consider adding more salt to taste. Store-bought peanut butter cups are quite salty, so I like to add a generous pinch of salt to mimic that flavor. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the peanut butter filling over the top, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Return the pan to the freezer to set.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Bars (Vegan, Gluten Free) Chocolate Crust: ¾ cup ground almond meal 2 Tbsp cocoa powder 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil Pinch of sea salt

Rinse the mixing bowl and use it again to make the final layer. Combine the cocoa powder, melted coconut oil and maple syrup, whisking well to break up any clumps. Once the mixture has become a smooth chocolate sauce, pour it over the peanut butter layer, and return the pan to the freezer to set until firm, about an hour or two.

Once the bars are firm, grab the edges of parchment paper to easily lift the solid bar from the pan, and use a sharp knife to slice the bars into your desired size. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to a month. (The bars become very firm if frozen for too long, so I prefer serving them from the fridge after the initial firming-up time.)

Source: Detoxinista.com/no-bake-peanutbutter-cup-bars-vegan

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November 2015

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photo by Megan Gilmore

Peanut Butter Filling: ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil Pinch of sea salt

photo by Megan Gilmore

No-Bake Pecan Snowballs (Grain-Free, Vegan)

set, about 1 to 2 hours. For a “snowball” look, roll the balls in additional arrowroot or tapioca starch—just a light coating will do—since the starch will not enhance the flavor. It’s just for looks!

Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com

green living

Waste-Free Feasting How to Reduce Holiday Food Waste

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by Yvette C. Hammett

he heaping platters that cheerfully mark the holidays have an unfortunate downside: Americans increase their waste by 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The discarded food and packaging burden landfills with an additional 1 million tons of waste each week.

That’s in addition to the 40 percent of food Americans typically waste each year— nearly half of all the food prepared at home or in restaurants. Monica McBride, senior manager of food loss and waste for the World Wildlife Fund, notes that squandered bounty is grown in areas that were converted from natural habitat into farm fields, so it’s also a waste of natural resources.

“Once you start cooking, you realize the impact on the planet,” says chef and caterer Steven Laurence, owner of Vegan Commissary, in Philadelphia. “My grandmother was the kind of person who, if there was one pea left over, she put it in a container and some-

one ate it the next day. That kind of informs my cooking. The way I was trained, you didn’t waste anything. You used everything.”

In individual households, small changes can have a big impact, especially during the holidays; all it takes is awareness and a plan. Frugal cooks can make room for a holiday waste reduction strategy by taking inventory of the pantry and boxing up a load for the local soup kitchen or food bank.

Then, design a menu with the environment in mind, using portion control to avoid food waste and whipping up dishes that can easily be upcycled into new creations that can be used as appetizers in the coming days or tucked in the freezer for future enjoyment.

Start with the Guest-imator at SaveTheFood.com, a great way to determine portions for a holiday party, says Cheryl Coleman, director of the EPA Resource Conservation and Sustainability Division in the Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery.

In individual households, small changes can have a big impact, especially during the holidays; all it takes is awareness and a plan

The Guest-imator and Save the Food, a program of the Natural Resources Defense Council in conjunction with the Ad Council, tells cooks how much to make to keep guests happy and includes recipes for leftovers, such as Crispy Sheet Pan Hash, made with leftover roasted vegetables, and Ugly Vegetable Pasta, made with zucchini, tomatoes and eggplant.

Spoilage is another way food finds its way into the garbage can, and that too, can be avoided, Laurence says, pointing out that most food goes bad because it’s not cooked properly or is mishandled in storage. “Mix animal protein with starches and grains in a container and it goes bad because of two different sorts of enzymes. It is a fuel for bacteria.” He also recommends using as many organic ingredients as possible for longer-lasting leftovers. “We guarantee all of our dishes for two weeks,” he says.

Encouraging visitors to take home leftovers is another effective food-saving strategy, says McBride. “Have Tupperware or to-go boxes you could provide to your guests.”

Reilly Brock, content manager at Imperfect Produce, in New York City, agrees. “Just like repurposing excess product requires creative thinking, food waste around the holidays requires out-of-the-box ideas to keep impact low,” says Brock, whose company delivers imperfect produce to customers’ doors for a cost savings. “Why end the fun when the meal ends? The best part about leftovers—and the holidays—is keeping the celebration going.”

“Also, make sure you keep food safe,” McBride says. “The CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] has a really great overview of how to do that for parties. Standard guidance is not to leave food out for more than two hours. So, as a party planner, make sure you mentally note when you put food out.”

Coleman recommends taking it a step beyond the holidays by joining a movement to cut food waste year-round.

She suggests visiting FurtherWithFood.org to learn more. “Through that and additional outreach, we might be able to start to change,” says McBride.

Yvette C. Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. Connect at YvetteHammett28@hotmail.com.

December 2019

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Presence is the Best Present for People and the Earth

of the word. One popular alternative is charitable giving instead of gift giving. Each person contributes whatever amount they see fit to a chosen nonprofit. Each year, a different person gets to choose the organization. Do-good/ feel-good gifts are amazing.

by Nancy DeVault

Reason for the season. People

exchange gifts for many reasons, including obligation, tradition and joy. Maybe we really don’t want to get anything for the boss, and backing out of the family secret Santa swap could seem rude, but finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be priceless.

Good Tidings of Time. Holiday gifts

D

and more stores offer receipts via text or email. This decreases paper copies that end up trashed.

can connect us to the time when three wise men brought gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus to celebrate his birth in the manger. It is said that Saint Nicholas gave gifts to the poor. Today, Santa Claus rewards children that have behaved well.

We are not necessarily being a Scrooge without material presents. Distributing fewer presents can actually grant us the opportunity to be more present during the holidays than ever before.

For many busy people, time is much more valuable than stuff that comes with a receipt. Instead of spending hours shopping for loved ones, we make more time to experience jolly jubilation together. Rather than spending hours in big box stores, we can spend quality time marveling at neighborhood Christmas lights, attending holiday happenings and building gingerbread houses.

Become a sustainable shopper.

Seasonal Sanity. Holiday stress can

uring the most wonderful time of the year, we may notice iconic green and red hues everywhere.

But, in reality, the holidays can be far from green. Think about all the waste that accumulates during the season and harms our plant. Global warming will impact the temperature of the North Pole, so we’re “making a list and checking it twice” for ways to truly embrace being green. Here are some ideas.

center to see if area programs convert used Christmas trees into mulch.

Double-click on card sending.

Don’t leave a paper trail. More

This digital greeting of e-cards via social media is eco-friendly, plus it’ll save both time (with the elimination of penning cards/envelopes) and money (no need for postage stamps). Receiving Christmas cards snail-mail style is still nice, so use cards made from recycled paper or go with a photo card that could be kept as a keepsake. Plus, cards can be repurposed into homemade gift tags.

Do good with decorations. Don’t

just toss old decorations, explore donation options. Pass them along to a friend, secondhand store or nonprofit.

Extend tree trimmings beyond Christmas. Contact a local recycling 18

Ocala/Gainesville FL

Curtail excessive wrapping paper use. Gift bags may be a better choice

compared to wrapping paper because bags can be reused, whereas paper is commonly ripped and tossed. And don’t shy away from using household alternatives like newspaper and paper grocery bags.

We’re in control of our purchasing power.

Choose brands that use eco-friendly materials. When applicable, gift homemade presents crafted with love.

Gift no gifts. We all like giving pur-

poseful gifts on occasion and receiving them, too. But holiday shopping can be all-consuming; evaluate why we purchase so many gifts. We may buy for our partner, children, colleagues, neighbors, relatives, friends and household service workers. It can be a lot, in every sense

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bring out the worst in people, such as Black Friday stampedes and parking lot

scuffles. Instead, eliminate the angst of return lines, bargain bins and a lengthy shopping checklist. Preserving our sanity may be something of a Christmas miracle.

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Festive Fun. Instead of investing in gifts, invest in one another

by embracing old traditions and making new ones. On Christmas morning, for example, without time spent opening gifts, we can enjoy lounging in matching pajamas, making Santa-shaped pancakes and listening to little ones sing carols. We’ll be able to get to the family party earlier too, which will increase opportunities for more connecting. Limit the number of gifts and be conscious of the nature of the gifts (large plastic toys) they give. Research indicates that experiences make us happier than things do because they create bonds and memories. For example, children love getting a membership to the science center; and adults may indulge in a Christmas-colored mani-pedi with gal pals.

Frosty Financials. According to the American Research

Group, shoppers around the country spend an average of $1,000 on holiday gifts. Couples may decide to redirect funds from stocking stuffers to connective date nights, enriching vacations and necessary home repairs. As for group gift exchanges, consider setting clear guidelines about budget and gift types.

Nancy DeVault is an award-winning writer/editor contributing to local and national publications.

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19

Awakening to the Evolution of Community

by Linda Sechrist

Z

en master Thich Nhat Hanh’s suggestion that the next Buddha would likely not take form as an individual but rather as a sangha, a community practicing mindful living, led many people to ask, “Why a community?” The author of more than 100 books that explore the Buddha’s core teachings on mindfulness, kindness and compassion, Hanh clarified the meaning of sangha as a good community necessary for helping individuals learn how to encounter life in the present moment, resist the unwholesome ways of our time, go in the direction of peace and nourish seeds of enlightenment. Even the best intentions, he noted, can falter without such a group of trusted family, friends and co-practitioners experiencing mindfulness together.

A Migration to Forming Community

Today’s trend toward collaborative processes and opportunities for transformation through online communities is made easier by the availability of affordable video conferencing providers such as Zoom, Skype and Mighty Networks, as well as online platforms like Facebook and MeetUp. 20

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Although many groups form for marketing, political, civic or social purposes—allowing participants to share values and common interests—thousands more gather as online intentional communities associated with personal growth and spiritual awakening.

Myriad individuals have been able to experience some aspect of community through international organizations such as MindValley, Hay House, the Shift Network and Dr. Deepak Chopra’s Jiyo, a wellness-focused mobile app intended to extend the reach of his ideas on health and social transformation from millions of people to more than 1 billion.

In MeetUp, spiritual awakening groups recently comprised 1,113,972 members in 3,631 groups worldwide. Additionally, co-housing communities, spiritual residential communities and eco-villages continue to form around the intention of designing and implementing pathways to a regenerative future.

The Old Story Versus the New Story

The increased interest in intentional communities may hint at a possibility that the

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human desire for community might be nature’s evolutionary nudge toward a collective leap that helps us to survive a changing climate and Earth’s potential sixth mass extinction. If so, this possibility needs a new supportive story that includes humans as part of nature, with its evolutionary impulse as a guide for body, mind and soul.

With our modern scientific worldview, when people talk about nature, they typically mean animals, plants, geological features and natural processes, all happening independently of humans. A more suitable new story is cultural historian Thomas Berry’s moving and meaningful narrative in The Great Work: Our Way Into the Future, in which humans aren’t above nature by virtue of superior intellect, but instead are equal partners with all that exists in a materially and spiritually evolving universe.

From Berry’s perspective, humans are the eyes, minds and hearts through which the cosmos is evolving so that it can come to know itself ever more perfectly through us.

Apollo 14 astronaut Edgar Mitchell shared Berry’s perspective. Traveling back to Earth after walking upon the lunar surface, Mitchell gazed out of the spacecraft

Franzii/Shutterstock.com

THE EMERGING POWER OF ‘WE’

window, whereupon he was flooded with an ecstatic awareness. “I was a part of the universe I was observing, and I became aware that everything that exists is part of one intricately interconnected whole,” recounts Mitchell, who founded the groundbreaking Institute of Noetic Sciences to explore the nature of human consciousness.

A Guiding Light

Seijaku Roshi, the abbot and founder of the Pine Wind Zen Community, aptly named for its location in a pine forest in Shamong, New Jersey, advises, “People are searching and hungering for community, which is number one on my agenda. If we aren’t talking about community, we’re squandering the moment.

Whether it’s an evolutionary nudge or not, it appears that our tragic world situation is pushing us towards an alternative vision for living a meaningful life that meets the needs of people, society and the environment. We are awakening to the fact we’re interconnected, interdependent and need community, which is the spirit and guiding light whereby people come together to fulfill a purpose, to help others fulfill their purpose and to take care of one another.”

Conscious Evolution

Craig Hamilton, the guiding force behind the movement known as Integral Enlightenment, is the founder of the telecourse training program Academy for Evolutionaries. His spiritual guidance and teachings reach a growing international online community spanning 50 countries. “Transforming ourselves in the deepest possible way is, in fact, an evolutionary imperative, and we need to be able to identify the indicators of emergent shifts and participate creatively with change as an evolutionary force. Evolution up to this point has been playing out unconsciously. We’re now waking up and realizing that we can collaborate and participate in an emerging future.”

Hamilton’s experience is that where humans awake to the one that is expressed through the many, they also begin to engage together. “Practicing community isn’t as simple as it seems. In online communities, a lot less can go wrong. The stakes aren’t as high. People come and go, share and engage as they like.”

A Community of Sisterhood

Laurie McCammon, author of Enough!

How to Liberate Yourself and Remake the World with Just One Word, feels certain that humans are evolving. “We were last to the party with our big brains, and now we’re trying to intellectualize our way to an uncertain future without important feminine values such as feeling, intuiting, nurturing, interdependency and vulnerability,” says McCammon, who is deeply involved in the circle movement, in which women gather in small groups to empower each other.

A regular participant in Gather the Women Global Matrix, a worldwide sisterhood that connects thousands of women sharing meaningful conversations and celebrating the divine feminine with the intention of bringing about personal and planetary transformation through cooperation and collaboration, McCammon says, “No one of us can bring about large-scale transformation alone. It’s time to tell the new story wherein our lives and actions demonstrate that together we are enough.

Non-hierarchical circles that encourage authentic communication are part of this new story.”

Citing other important circle communities such as Tree Sisters and The Millionth Circle, McCammon suggests that women tap into The Divine Feminine app, which allows them to find circle communities and events anywhere in the world.

Co-Creating With the Intelligence of Nature

Teacher and futurist Peter Russell writes books that are focused on consciousness and contemporary spirituality. His lectures help humans free themselves of limited beliefs and attitudes that belie many of humanity’s personal, social and global problems. The author of The Global Brain: The Awakening Earth in a New Century, Russell posits that the evolutionary process naturally draws humans together. “Humans are social creatures that need community, which I find very energizing,” says Russell, who cites the Findhorn Foundation eco-village, in Scotland, as a dynamic experiment in community.

“Although residents went through hard times, they recognized the need for

honest communication so they could attune to one another in loving ways that would allow everyone to work through their difficulties. Today, life at Findhorn is guided by the inner voice of spirit, and residents work in co-creation with the intelligence of nature,” he says.

The Collective Wisdom of Community

An uncertain future is emerging, making it necessary for new and more intuitive methods and spiritual practices for developing collective wisdom, human potential and the skills for practicing community. “I’m in the process of finalizing 118 chapters from 90 different authors for a Collaborative Change Library: Transforming Organizations, Revitalizing Communities, Developing Human Potential,” says associate editor Carole Gorelick, who clarifies that spiritual practices are now playing a part in bringing about collaborative change. She notes that several chapters are updated versions of The Change Handbook: The Definitive Resource on Today’s Best Methods for Engaging Whole Systems (2007 second edition), which included modalities such as World Café, Open Space Technology, Art of Hosting, Appreciative Inquiry and many others.

A living handbook for developing human potential and the skills to practice community, Fred Eppsteiner has been teaching Buddhism for 23 years. A student of Hanh’s since the 1960s, he is the founder of the Florida Community of Mindfulness, in Tampa. Eppsteiner sums up why the next Buddha could be a community: “A better future will be created by people who are living the values they want for the world, not just abstractly using only the intellect. In community, we ask ourselves, ‘Can I be what I want to see in the world?

Can I practice these things mindfully in community with love, acceptance, deep listening, compassion and kindness?’ These are values that every Buddha has lived for centuries, and certainly ones we need to evolve from a culture of, ‘It’s all about me’ to a culture of, ‘It’s all about we’.”

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

December 2019

21

wise words

Surgeon Mary Neal on Lessons From Heaven

by Kajsa Nickels

Did you know that the Florida School of Massage hosts a Six Level Certiication course in Traditional Thai Massage? Do you want to learn a transformational and prootable healing modality that promotes the health and longevity of the practitioner as well as the recipient?

I

n 1999, while kayaking on the Fuy River in Chile, orthopedic surgeon Mary Neal became trapped beneath a waterfall and drowned.

She was underwater for 30 minutes before the current pulled her out. During that time, Neal experienced what she believes to be a miraculous event in which she penetrated the veil dividing the physical and spiritual worlds. There, she was told that it was not yet her time, and of the future death of her eldest son, a prediction that was fulfilled 10 years later. The experience gave her a new perspective on the purpose of our Earthly existence and life after death.

She has since written two books on the subject: To Heaven and Back: A Doctor’s Extraordinary Account of Her Death, Heaven, Angels and Life Again; and 7 Lessons from Heaven: How Dying Taught Me to Live a Joy-Filled Life. Her life-altering experience prompted her to pay more attention to those things that are truly important: faith, family and relationships with other human beings. She lives with her family in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she continues to mend broken bones.

How do you think your medical background makes you uniquely qualified to speak on near-death experiences (NDE)?

I am a very concrete thinker and analyze everything. Being a doctor also gave me ac22

Ocala/Gainesville FL

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cess to many resources that the common person would not. I spent many months researching scientific and medical literature to try to come up with a logical explanation of what had happened to me. I was forced to conclude that my experience fell outside of the parameters of both science and medicine. I could not find any examples to disprove what happened, especially when the predicted death of my oldest son came to pass.

What was the most profound moment of your experience?

It’s hard to pinpoint the most profound moment of the entire experience, but what impacted me most was the realization that God is real, and He is present to each and every one of us every moment of our daily lives. I realized to the depths of my soul that all God’s promises are true, not just wishful thinking or a vague hope.

How has your NDE made you a better wife, mother and medical professional?

You can’t have an NDE without having your entire life changed. When you realize that there is more to life than what you can see with your physical eyes, it changes your entire perspective on every moment of every day. The things we say and the things we do create a ripple effect that spreads beyond the boundaries of our human sight. Love

Choen photo/Shutterstock.com

is ultimately the only thing that matters, to reflect love to the world and other people.

I was a “good person” before my NDE, but I now see differently. I see that each human being is incredibly loved, and that we are all one: We are them, and they are us.

Everything else in the world is secondary to God’s love and presence in our lives.

How is your approach to everyday life different than it was prior to your NDE?

I am able to be entirely present in every moment of my life. I can experience deep and abiding joy regardless of my circumstances. I am able to trust that grace covers my past, that there is life after death and a plan for my life. No matter what is happening, even if it is terrible, beauty will come out of it. Most people are trapped in regrets of the past and worry about the future.

With complete trust in God, I am able to fully have joy in each and every moment.

Is there a difference between joy and happiness?

Absolutely. Happiness is an emotion based on circumstances. Happiness can accompany joy, but not always. Joy is a state of being, of trusting in God, of believing that his promises are true. Joy comes from freedom—freedom from disruptive emotions like guilt, remorse, unforgiveness. Even in the devastation of my oldest son’s death, I can honestly say that I experienced a deep joy from trusting in God’s love and promises.

Why do you believe heaven is written in our hearts?

As a scientist, I firmly believe that we are created beings with physical bodies and spiritual souls. I believe that our spiritual self remembers heaven and remembers joy. Part of our journey here on Earth is to rediscover our connection with God. As adults, we often feel that we have to choose between science and spiritualism. The truth is that they coexist, answering questions in different ways.

Kajsa Nickels is a freelance author who lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Connect at fideleterna45@gmail.com.

inspiration

The Generous Heart How Giving Transforms Us

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by Cindy Ricardo

ne of the ways we come into balance and connection with each other and with life is by giving from the heart. When we give to others, whether it’s an act of kindness, generosity or compassion, it helps us live from the heart instead of the ego.

Living from the ego is painful and exhausting. It’s like feeding a hungry monster that’s never satisfied. Ego craves, pursues and clings to status, approval, material wealth and control. It views the world through the eyes of fear—constantly evaluating, judging and acting in ways that are self-centered, defensive and protective.

Like with Scrooge, ego closes our heart and makes us small, fearful and contracted.

By contrast, generosity requires that we open our hearts to the world and each other. We allow ourselves to be vulnerable.

In doing this, we open ourselves fully to life, love and relationships. We let go of striving and pursuing things. When we stop striving, we begin to see, value and respond to what’s happening in the present moment in ways that are healthy and healing. Our priority shifts from acquiring things to appreciating what we have and being open to sharing with others.

Generosity is a quality of kindness, of living from a place of abundance. We see the world through a clear lens that isn’t clouded by fear, wanting or clinging. When we interact with others, our connection is

genuine. We see people instead of judgments or labels.

Being generous arises from the heart, not the wallet. We don’t need to have material wealth in order to be generous.

The only requirement is a willingness to open our hearts, to see life as it is and to interact with others from a place of compassion and love. Some examples of generous acts are: n Doing a household chore without being asked. n Setting aside what we’re doing and listening to someone in need of emotional support. n Telling loved ones what we appreciate about them. n Listening to children and trying to see the world through their eyes before offering advice. n Smiling at a stranger. n When asking, “How are you?” looking into the person’s eyes and taking time to truly listen with an attitude of curiosity and compassion.

Generosity awakens goodness in the heart, and this helps us open to life, love and relationships.

Cindy Ricardo is a Coral Springs, Floridabased psychotherapist who blogs at ACaringCounselor.com.

December 2019

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equine spotlight

Horse Around in an Equine Yoga Class

by Nancy DeVault

Y

oga is an ancient practice that engages our physical, mental and spiritual being through mindful poses and conscious intentions. It can strengthen the mind, body and soul. In recent years, classes have stretched far beyond the confines of traditional studio settings and facilitation. This includes the popular trend of outdoor yoga, featuring animals like goats, bunnies, kittens and now locally, horses.

Animals have always been an essential part of yoga—downward dog, cat-cow, cobra, pigeon and many other creaturethemed poses. Some believe that these asanas help us connect with nature and mimic the natural, strong mechanisms of our animal counterparts.

Many people have taken yoga classes and practiced these stances, but not practiced alongside a motivating mammal such as a horse. Research shows that animals invoke positive health benefits for humans. Animal-assisted therapy is commonly used to lower blood pressure, reduce stress and stimulate overall well-being. According to Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, comparable benefits are achieved via equine-assisted activities. Horses are now incorporated into an array of therapeutic environments for total body engagement. For instance, a person with cerebral palsy may gain core strength, a person with autism spectrum disorder may hone communication skills and a person with addiction or PTSD may learn to identify emotions.

“Animal yoga makes participants responsible for connecting with themselves before they connect with others,” says certified yoga therapist and horse lover Melissa Montilla. As the owner of Sanctuary Yoga, in Gainesville, she defines her teaching technique as “movement therapy” inclusive of diverse somatic practices beyond the yoga mat like dance and horseback riding.

According to Yogapedia, the horse pose is an intermediate asana that requires flexibility in the hips, as well as a strong core and resilient knees. The body resembles the face of a horse in this posture, hence the name.

Montilla has partnered with the Wild Horse Rescue Center (WHRC), in Webster, to host Wild Horses + Yoga. This all-levels

workshop will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., December 8. Montilla proclaims, “At our core, we are all wild things; and the horses at WHRC are incredible teachers to guide us toward a stronger relationship with our breath, balance and intuition.” She says that horses can physically impact our core strength, pelvic wellness, hip stability and ultimately allow us to feel taller and stronger.

In a tranquil space, participants flow through three components: ground work, grooming and mounted movement. The initial steps focus on breath, centering movement and body language skills. Connection is then enhanced through grooming. “Grooming is a mindfulness practice… a moving meditation,” Montilla explains; and she also notes the impact of this body language: “In horse culture, grooming is a sign of affection and connection.”

Next, participants can either mount with a saddle or bareback. Montilla asserts that this course isn’t about using the horse as a yoga mat; rather, “The way you breathe invites them to move in different ways. It becomes like partner yoga when mounted,” with the goal of building awareness through movement both on the ground and in mounted position. “On the horse, we’ll focus on placement of the pelvis, upper body work and lengthening and extending,” she says.

Priced at $85, Wild Horses + Yoga is also a fundraiser for WHRC, with 100 percent of event proceeds benefiting the nonprofit’s mission to the welfare, rescue and preservation of America’s wild horses—the mustangs. There are a limited number of available slots, but future Wild Horses + Yoga sessions are in the works. It is best for participants to wear long yoga pants and sneakers or a flexible paddock boots, and helmets are required for mounted riders.

Location: 12103 SE 47th Dr., Webster. For more information, visit YogaGainesville.com. Call Montilla at 352-538-7537 or email Melissa@YogaGainesville.com.

Nancy DeVault is an award-winning writer/editor contributing to local and national publications.

At our core, we are all wild things; and the horses at WHRC are incredible teachers to guide us toward a stronger relationship with our breath, balance and intuition. ~Melissa Montilla 24

Ocala/Gainesville FL

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equine events

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 Gallop on the Greenway – Dec 27-29. 7:30am6:30pm. Three days of endurance riding. Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. Hwy 475, Ocala. Register: 352-816-2353. DCShearer29@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 3rd Florida Thoroughbred Expo – Dec 6-8.

7:30am-6:30pm. Hosted by Run for the Ribbons Thoroughbred Horse Show and Florida Horse Park. Competitions in barrel racing, dressage, working ranch, show jumper, show hunter, crosscountry, polo, freestyle and OTTB In-Hand.

Expo to include vendors/fair marketplace, and educational seminars. Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. Hwy 475, Ocala. 774-328-1760. RunForTheRibbons.org, RunForTheRibbons@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 2019 Florida 4-H/FFA Horse Judging School – Dec 7. 8am-4pm. School purpose is to assist in the preparation of judging teams for the State Contests. Registration begins at 8am. $5/person.

UF Horse Teaching Unit, 1934 SW 63rd Avenue, Gainesville. 352-392-9059. WTaylor@ufl.edu.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Goin’ for Gold! – Dec 8. 5-9pm. $100/person.

Charity benefit for Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center to expand programs and facilities to meet the needs of persons with disabilities through horses helping humans. Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club, 8300 Northwest 31st land Road, Ocala. 352-427-3569. StirrupsNStrides.com.

Cirque Ma’Ceo – Dec 27, 7pm. Dec 28, 4pm and 7pm. Equestrian performance hosted by Cirque Ma’Ceo by Cavallo Equestrian Arts and Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. Tickets: CirqueMaCeoTickets.com. Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 Majestic Oaks Ocala Horse Sale Event –7am5pm. $35/class. Entries begin at 7am the day of the show. Class times are subject to change depending on final entries. Call ahead to verify times. Majestic Oaks Ocala, 17500 N. US Hwy 441, Ocala. 559917-3046. MajesticOaksOcala.com

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Majestic Oaks & Englert-Farren Sporthorses Schooling Jumper Show –7am-4:30pm. Horses include hunters, jumpers, eventing prospects, dressage and pleasure. Horse show environment to showcase all disciplines and training levels. On-site trials in the ring of your choice. Veterinarian onsite for PPEs. Majestic Oaks Ocala, 17500 N. US Hwy 441, Ocala. 559-917-3046. MajesticOaksOcala.com

plan ahead FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 Everything Equine Expo Florida – Jan 24-26.

8am-4pm. Colt starting competition featuring Lost Creek Cattle Company Quarter Horses. $8-$25 Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite. Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center, 23100 W. Newberry Rd, Newberry. 252-235-7645.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 Grandview Invitational 2020 –8am-5pm. Jan 31-Feb 2. $10-$250. Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite. Florida Horse Park, 14000 Co Hwy 475A, Ocala. 260-388-4279. FreshFuel@gmail. com. GrandviewInvitational.com.

December 2019

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healthy kids

Refresh Holiday Traditions Making the Old New and Green

C change

can do you good Join the Natural Awakenings Franchise Family

For more info visit: NaturalAwakenings.com

26

Ocala/Gainesville FL

by Ronica A. O’Hara

elebrating classic holiday traditions the same way we always have—and maybe the way our parents and grandparents did—is part of the rich family heritage we pass on to our children. These family rituals are binding, grounding, memorable and much more, says Saul Levine, M.D., professor emeritus in psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego.

A survey of 50 years of family research published in the American Psychological Association’s Journal of Family Psychology found that family holiday rituals, as well as everyday routines like family dinners and bedtime stories, build stronger family relationships, enhance children’s health and academic achievement, help teenagers’ sense of personal identity and even boost marital satisfaction.

It’s also natural and perhaps inevitable that these traditions undergo changes over the years. “If people from only five or six generations ago could see our modern Christmas, they’d barely recognize it,” says Brian Earl, host of the popular Christmas Past podcast that chronicles holiday traditions. “New trends and customs become traditions in time; every generation has its opportunity to add new chapters to the narrative and continue the story.”

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For Elizabeth Newcamp, Christmas festivities took an eco-turn for her military family of five when they were living for a few years in the Netherlands, where “Sinterklaas” traditionally delivers gifts in reusable burlap bags. “In an effort to reduce wrapping paper, we now use the sacks on Christmas,” says Newcamp, who blogs about family travel at DutchDutchGoose.com.

She and her husband Jeff also ask for and give experiences as gifts whenever possible; their 7-year-old son asked if he could organize a little library for their Navarre, Florida, neighborhood. Anyone that wants to send gifts to their sons is asked to find them used. “I don’t think we’ve lessened any of the fun of the holidays, but hopefully we are eliminating some of the waste,” she says.

For many years, Ginny Underwood’s family in Bluffton, South Carolina, would dress up and go to a restaurant on Christmas Eve, exchange gifts and then return home to watch a movie or play board games. Last year, they tried something new: staying home, putting on pajamas, eating cottage pie and playing handmade “Minute to Win It” games that Underwood, a professional organizer who blogs at VirginiasEasyLivingSolutions.com, created. “We had a blast; we didn’t stop

LightField Studios/Shutterstock.com

New trends and customs become traditions in time; every generation has its opportunity to add new chapters to the narrative and continue the story. ~Brian Earl laughing all night,” she says. “We saved hundreds of dollars and we had a lovely time.”

Lighting red, green and black candles while focusing on principles like unity, self-determination or purpose are key in the seven-day Kwanzaa celebrations; but, “Instead of just lighting the candle amongst friends and family and discussing, I want my family to spend that day exemplifying the principle,” says Vanessa Davis, executive director of the nonprofit African Village International, in Jacksonville, Florida. Now her children meditate, journal and practice mindfulness to learn about self-determination; volunteer or pick up trash outdoors to learn about collective work and responsibilities; and buy something at a locally-owned store and discuss future finances for cooperative economics. “I was inspired to change because Kwanzaa isn’t really a religious holiday, but it is a darn good way to reflect on the past year and goal-set for the future,” she says.

“Giving children more hands-on experiences for Hanukkah and taking the emphasis off of ‘What am I going to get?’ makes the holiday more meaningful for the kids,” concurs Pamela Morris, early childhood education director at the East Valley Jewish Community Center, in Chandler, Arizona. Each Hanukkah evening, her family of five lights a menorah and says traditional prayers while also volunteering to wrap food packages at a local Feed My Starving Children event, crafting personal menorahs at a pottery studio, going to see Phoenix ZooLights and gathering to make the traditional potato latkes or jelly donuts. “Each night is a focus on family time and welcoming friends to join us,” she says.

By observing and evolving traditions, family bonds can strengthen through time, relates Earl: “By participating in holiday rituals, children are learning about who they are. And by passing them down, parents reaffirm what’s important to them and keep the connection to the past intact.”

Ronica A. O’Hara is a Denver-based natural-health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

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Energy For Life

Updating Favorite Traditions n Instead of buying a Christmas tree or Hanukkah bush in a store lot, get one in a pot that can be replanted later. n Take a family holiday photo, either serious or wacky, and recreate it every year with members in the same poses and expressions. n Invite someone to a holiday dinner that’s not part of the family, such as an international student or newcomer in town. n Cook up a batch of healthy, vegan cookies with the kids and organize a neighborhood cookie swap. n Have a $10 or $20 gift exchange challenge in which everyone competes to come up with the most useful, creative or ecoclever use of the money. n String together popcorn and cranberries to make a tree garland or door decoration, and later drape it on outdoor trees to feed birds and wildlife. n Give kids $10 to donate to a carefully selected charity of their choice. n Take a favorite holiday story, parable or song and have the kids (and adults) act it out with costumes and all.

Practical teachings to help you lead a healthy, prosperous, and meaningful life.

101 Cedar Road Ocala, Florida 34472 www. unityocala.org Sunday Celebration & Youth Program 10 a.m.

A Positive Path for Spiritual Living December 2019

27

Many people have found that a regular breathing practice has helped them increase energy and decrease anxiety.

To promote the Religion, Science and Philosophy of Spiritualism

~Rachael Walter

Psychic Medium Spiritual Development Classes New 1 Year Series of on-going monthly classes in The Villages/ Belleview Choice of dates/ times ~ Dec. 10th, 11th or 17th

See Website for details.

Check our complete program on the website.

www.ifsk.org ~ 407-247-7823

INHALING THE JOY OF LIFE

Conscious Breathwork

O You can either see yourself as a wave in the ocean or you can see yourself as the ocean. ~Oprah Winfrey

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Ocala/Gainesville FL

by Marlaina Donato

ur first breath is instinctual and belly-deep, but as we grow into life, everyday stress and trauma can bring us into the shallows. Mindful breathing can help guide our breath back to its original, healthy rhythm. Both the brain and organs benefit from increased oxygen, and the vagus nerve that connects the two—prompted by changes in the body’s pH levels—releases acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for lowering heart rate.

Breathwork can improve vagal tone, a major component in a wide range of conditions like depression, pain syndromes, sleep disturbances, anxiety disorders and chronic inflammation. A 2016 study by the Medical University of South Carolina published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows a lower number of proteins associated with inflammation in the saliva of participants that employed breathing exercises. A study that appeared in the journal Psychophysiology in 2015 found that 20 minutes of mindful breathing at bedtime fostered a good night’s rest for people with insomnia.

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Breathing Breaks

From traditional rebirthing techniques using circular breathing to Middendorf Breath Work for somatic awareness, there are many styles of conscious breathing.

The gentler approaches best suit everyday needs and taking a breathing break can actually provide more refreshment than one featuring coffee.

“Many people have found that a regular breathing practice has helped them increase energy and decrease anxiety. It is a powerful tool to reset the nervous system when we’re overwhelmed and stressed,” says Somatic Breath Therapy (SBT) practitioner Rachael Walter, owner of Breathe-HereNow, in Keene, New Hampshire. Like many forms of breathwork, SBT bridges the chasm between mind and body. “Conscious breathing can also help people access and understand their emotions,” notes Walter.

Pranayama, an ancient technique of yoga that focuses on breath control and employs alternate nostril breathing, can be performed while lying down, seated or on the yoga mat. Kundalini yoga teacher Melissa Crowder, owner of 4 States Yoga, in

Robert Kneschke/Shutterstock.com

fit body

Joplin, Missouri, advises students to start out slowly, three to six minutes a day, and then work up to a longer practice. “Alternate nostril breathing is a great practice for everyone.

As little as six minutes of yogic breathing, as needed, can make a profound difference in decreasing pain and stress,” she says.

and in turn, presses upon the stomach and helps to churn the gastric juices. For this reason, it can aid earlier stages of digestion.”

When used in conjunction with other modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, diaphragmatic breathing might be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome.

Belly Benefits

Breathing Into Feelings

The American Lung Association recommends a variety of exercises, including diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, for conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Engaging the diaphragm is key in breathing to fullest capacity.

Walter explains, “An open, healthy breath is one in which we use the diaphragm to initiate the breath, followed by the belly expanding and the breath moving into the chest.”

Most of us unconsciously fall into shallow and sometimes self-conscious breathing patterns at an early age. “During my training, I read that by age 6, we pick up on cues telling us to tuck in our tummies.

This simple, bad habit begins a cascade of physiological responses. Upper chest breathing can create anxiety symptoms and poor digestion,” explains Colleen Breeckner, owner of Colleen Lila Yoga, in New York City. “Diaphragmatic breathing causes the diaphragm to become flat and wide,

The depth and quality of the breath can help us to become aware of emotional states that include “holding patterns”. “Conscious breathing is a doorway into deep meditation, which can help alleviate anger and insecurities. It can also be helpful in dropping addictions,” says Crowder. “Linking pranayama with physical movement [asanas] helps to release tension and emotions that can be held in the body’s soft tissues.”

Breeckner agrees, “Developing this awareness can help us to move unpleasant and stuck emotions through the body.”

Well-being can be just a breath away, says Walter. “When we open up our breath, we open ourselves to a fuller experience of being human. It has the capacity to bring us into the present moment to access our joy and our life’s purpose.”

Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

Noteworthy Breathwork Styles Clarity Breathwork: Developed from the groundwork of Leonard Orr, with a focus on accessing the subconscious mind for self-awareness Holotropic Breathwork: Developed by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof, M.D., and his wife Christina and employs deep, rapid breathing to initiate an altered state of consciousness; training in the Grof method is required Integral Breath Therapy: Gentle technique for an altered state of consciousness that works with the body’s natural healing capacity Middendorf Breath Work: Named after German-born Ilse Middendorf, a gentle technique that does not include forcing the breath to promote healing Rebirthing Breathwork: Pioneering and well-known form of breathwork that was also developed by Orr with a focus on releasing unconscious energy blocks imprinted during the birth process Shamanic Breathwork: Uses specific breathing methods, chakras or energy centers, music and movement to overcome emotional blocks for deep-level healing Transformational Breath: Developed by Dr. Judith Kravitz using uninterrupted breathing, Kundalini yoga and other elements of physical and energetic healing; recommended by Dr. Christine Northrup and Dr. Deepak Chopra

Go-to Breathing Exercises From Rachael Walter: The Three-Breath Sigh Place one hand on your lower belly and the other on your chest. Breathing in through your nose, let your breath start in the belly and move up to the chest. Then exhale through your mouth while making an audible sighing sound.

Repeat two more times.

The Four-Eight Relaxing Breath Place one hand on your lower belly and the other on your chest. Using a belly breath, inhale to the count of four and exhale to the count of eight, making your exhale twice as long as your inhale to facilitate relaxation. Feel free to play with how fast or slow you count to find a comfortable breathing pace. Repeat for six to 10 times as needed.

Breath Walk This is an excellent exercise to do while at work, school or a public place to give your nervous system a break, even when the world is crazy-busy around you.

Walk at a slightly slower pace than normal and breathe in for one step; breathe out for the next step, counting three or four for each breath/step. Continue as you walk, being mindful of your breath, counting and surroundings.

For further inquiry, Melissa Crowder recommends these Kundalini yoga breaths: Shabad Kriya for promoting deep restful sleep Sitali Pranayama for lowering a fever or cooling off a hot temper Breath of Fire for improved brain circulation, stimulating digestion and weight control Right nostril breathing for afternoon slumps Left nostril breathing to quiet mind chatter at bedtime December 2019

29

JANUARY

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ISSUE

healing ways

Coming Next Month

What’s good for muscles is good for bones. ~Susie Hathaway wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com

AgeDefying Habits

Plus: Healthy Immune System

BEYOND CALCIUM Full-Spectrum Bone Health

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352-366-0088 30

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by Marlaina Donato

ur bones are the Osteoporosis can be menopause and if the bone density is very low, foundation that prevented, and I’ve but we can always make supports our seen many patients some improvements in bodies and the quality of our lives. Unlike the brick reverse osteoporosis. bone health. We need to assess diet, exercise, and mortar and bedrock ~Leat Kuzniar gastrointestinal health, of a building, the human hormones, medications, skeletal system is living pH and even stress levels.” tissue that breaks down and rebuilds; this constant remodeling demands much more than just taking an obligatory Synergy of Vitamins calcium supplement. and Minerals

Compromised bone health is most Walter Willett, M.D., chairman of the Deoften associated with postmenopausal partment of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. women, but it can also impact men and Chan School of Public Health, argues that younger adults. Genetics, hormonal the daily recommended 1,000-to-1,200 milchanges and nutritional deficiencies can ligrams of calcium is based on inadequate all foster bone loss. The National Osstudies, and advises half that amount. teoporosis Foundation reports that 44

Other minerals may play an equally million Americans have low bone density critical role. The body robs calcium from and 10 million suffer from osteoporosis, the bones when blood levels of this vital facing a high risk of fracture from this mineral fall too low; but taking a calcium debilitating condition. supplement—especially without co-nutri Fortunately, it’s never too early or ents—can increase fracture risk. “Calcium too late to do right by our bones. “Osteosupplementation is complex; more isn’t porosis can be prevented, and I’ve seen better. Vitamin D is essential for calcium many patients reverse osteoporosis,” says absorption, and vitamin K2 is essential Leat Kuzniar, a Nutley, New Jersey, natufor getting that calcium to your bones and keeping it out of your arteries,” Kuzniar ropath. “It becomes more difficult after

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says. Magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and potassium are also allies in calcium metabolism.

Vitamin C, too, is a key player in bone health, promoting collagen synthesis. Nutrient absorption relies on integrity of gut health, so opting for probiotics is a wise choice across the board.

Bone Up on Superfoods Optimally, the quest for stronger bones begins with a nutrientdense diet. “Plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein and some fats create a physiology in the body to support optimal bone health. Avoiding too much sodium and animal protein also helps,” says Mary Jane Detroyer, a New York City-based nutritionist and certified dietitian. She underscores the importance of mineral-packed kale, collards, mustard greens, bok choy and broccoli, but warns against oxalate-laden spinach and chard, which inhibit calcium absorption. “Other calcium-rich foods like tofu, edamame, yogurt, kefir and cheese are also good, as well as milk substitutes fortified with calcium.” Omega-3-rich chia seeds, walnuts and other tree nuts are heavy hitters that boost both calcium absorption and collagen production essential for bone strength.

A 2016 Brazilian study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that a diet with excessive sweets and caffeinated beverages negatively impacts bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Soda consumption also amps up the risk of fractures. An analysis of female subjects spanning 30 years published in The American Journal of Clinical

Nutrition in 2014 reveals a 14 percent increased risk for fractures with each daily serving of soda, including diet beverages.

Get Moving High-impact activities like jumping rope and jogging build strong bones in our youth, but as we age, low-impact exercise is easier on the joints. Mayo Clinic recommendations include walking, gardening, dancing, stair-climbing and elliptical training.

Resistance also yields significant results. A 2018 Korean study published in the journal EnM reveals that exercise employing free weights, weight machines and elastic bands increases muscle and bone mass in both women and men. American College of Sports Medicine-certified personal trainer Susie Hathaway, in Fairfield, Iowa, explains why. “What’s good for muscles is good for bones.

When a muscle contracts, it gives a beneficial pull on the adjacent bones, stimulating the bone-building cells to be more active.”

Hathaway highlights safety and the importance of bearing weight on the feet. “Gravity is important for bone health. Weightbearing aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, provides a mild stimulus for your bones and helps slow down bone loss.”

Kuzniar reminds us that with the right care, our bones can carry us through life. “Once we know what factors are at play in the patient, we can address the underlying causes.”

Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

December 2019

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A New Generation Spurs Change

Perfect Pet Presents Safe and Eco-Smart Toys

by Julie Peterson

T

he pet aisles are so full of squeaking, plush and colorful toys it can make a dog or cat parent’s head spin like a Frisbee. Add blinking lights, flavors, promises of higher intelligence or cleaner teeth; then toss in concerns about sustainably sourced materials, potentially toxic ingredients and varying degrees of quality. The choices are complex.

It would be nice to look for that gold seal of approval from the Pet Toy Regulatory Agency. But don’t bother: There is no such thing. It’s all up to the consumer to figure it out.

The Problem Is Real

Concern regarding toxicants in children’s toys and the realization that they posed a risk of chemical exposure led to regulatory protections. “Similar safeguards do not exist for pets, even though they exhibit similar chewing and mouthing behaviors,” says Philip N. Smith, Ph.D., associate professor of terrestrial ecotoxicology at Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

“Owner education is key to limiting unintentional chemical exposure.”

According to a 2013 study co-authored by Smith and published in the journal 32

Ocala/Gainesville FL

Chemosphere, common endocrine-disrupting chemical toxins in plastics can enter a dog’s body through saliva. Concentrations of leachable chemicals can increase in older, degraded toys, according to the National Institutes of Health.

For anyone that has ever had a pet destroy a toy faster than it takes to calculate the cost per second, durable construction may be the highest concern. After all, if the toy is vigorously ripped to shreds, pieces may be swallowed. The most immediate issue becomes intestinal blockage.

This is a common problem for cats and dogs with a propensity to eat garbage, plants and holiday decorations. But when we spend good money on actual toys, we would like to think that it won’t lead to surgery. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee. Poorly constructed toys have required many pet owners to watch for the parts to pass through the animal or, worse yet, make a trip to the vet.

Even if a toy seems sturdy, it’s best to observe the animal with the toy. Charlotte Easterling, a graphic designer in Madison, Wisconsin, learned this from her

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The American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey provides insight into the demographics, buying habits and other traits of dog, cat, bird, small animal, reptile, fish and horse owners.

The 2019-2020 survey shows that about 85 million U.S. homes, or 67 percent, include a pet. This leads to a lot of money flowing into the pet toy and care community.

Annually, dog owners spend about $124 and cat owners spend about $89 on treats and toys. The survey also indicates that Millennials are the largest pet-owning demographic.

“The pet care community is doing a great job of meeting the demands of a new generation by offering a range of products made from sustainable, recycled and upcycled materials,” says Steve King, CEO of APPA, in Stamford, Connecticut. King notes it’s expected that as Gen Z pet owners begin to assert themselves in the marketplace, we will see more products based on sustainability and transparency.

New Africa/Shutterstock.com

cat, Hazel, who choked on a common cat toy. “She was playing with a glitter ball and then started meowing kind of frantically, scrambling around and pawing at her face.

I jumped up and pulled the ball out of her mouth,” recalls Easterling. Hazel only gets big glitter balls these days.

Shopping for Safety Experts offer some guidelines for ways consumers can choose harmless toys: 4 Be suspicious of toys manufactured overseas or cheap ones made in the U.S. 4 Contact the manufacturer and ask if toys contain phthalates, BPA, arsenic, bromine, chemical dyes, chromium or formaldehyde.

4 Look for toys made with ingredients from nature (hemp, leather or wool).

4 Find a pet supply store that has natural, safe and sustainably sourced products.

4 Inspect toys periodically for loose parts and watch the pet with new toys.

4 If a pet plays with a toy and then acts oddly, contact the vet.

Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin.

Connect at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

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natural pet

Seven years without a cold?

had colds going round and round, but not me.”

Some users say it also helps with sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus headache. When her CopperZap arrived, she tried it. “I am shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

Some users say copper stops

By Doug Cornell nighttime stuffiness if used just before cientists recently discovered time. He hasn’t had a single cold for 7 bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had a way to kill viruses and years since. in years.” bacteria.

He asked relatives and friends to try Copper can also stop flu if used early Now thousands of people are using it it. They said it worked for them, too, so and for several days. Lab technicians to stop colds and flu. he patented CopperZap™ and put it on placed 25 million live flu viruses on a Colds start the market.

CopperZap. No viruses were found alive when cold viruses Soon hundreds soon after. get in your nose. of people had Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply tried it and given confirming the discovery. He placed fast. If you don’t feedback. Nearly millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, 100% said the “They started to die literally as soon as they spread and copper stops colds they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. if used within 3 People have even used copper on In hundreds hours after the first cold sores and say it can completely of studies, EPA sign. Even up to prevent outbreaks.

New research: Copper stops colds if used early. and university 2 days, if they The handle is researchers have confirmed that viruses still get the cold it is milder than usual curved and finely and bacteria die almost instantly when and they feel better. textured to improve touched by copper.

Users wrote things like, “It stopped contact. It kills germs That’s why ancient Greeks and my cold right away,” and “Is it picked up on fingers Egyptians used copper to purify water supposed to work that fast?” and hands to protect and heal wounds. They didn’t know “What a wonderful thing,” wrote you and your family. about microbes, but now we do.

Physician’s Assistant Julie. “No more Copper even kills Dr. Bill Keevil: Copper quickly kills deadly germs that Scientists say the high conductance colds for me!” cold viruses. of copper disrupts the electrical balance Pat McAllister, 70, received one have become resistant in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in for Christmas and called it “one of the to antibiotics. If you are near sick seconds. best presents ever. This little jewel really people, a moment of handling it may Tests by the EPA (Environmental works.” keep serious infection away. It may even Protection Agency) show germs die Now thousands of users have simply save a life. fast on copper. So some hospitals tried stopped getting colds.

The EPA says copper still works copper for touch surfaces like faucets People often use CopperZap even when tarnished. It kills hundreds of and doorknobs. This cut the spread of preventively. Frequent flier Karen Gauci different disease germs so it can prevent MRSA and other illnesses by over half, used to get colds after crowded flights. serious or even fatal illness. and saved lives.

Though skeptical, she tried it several CopperZap is made in America of The strong scientific evidence gave times a day on travel days for 2 months. pure copper. It has a 90-day full money inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” she back guarantee. It is $69.95. he felt a cold about to start he fashioned exclaimed.

Get $10 off each CopperZap with a smooth copper probe and rubbed it Businesswoman Rosaleen says when code NATA15.

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call gently in his nose for 60 seconds. people are sick around her she uses “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold CopperZap morning and night. “It saved toll-free 1-888-411-6114.

Buy once, use forever. never got going.” It worked again every me last holidays,” she said. “The kids ADVERTORIAL

Copper in new device stops cold and flu

S

December 2019

33

calendar of events NOTE: All calendar events must be submitted via our website by the 10th of the month and must adhere to our guidelines. Visit GoNaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

Crystal Energy Healing Class with JoEllen Blue – 2:30-4:30pm, 5:30-7:30pm. $30. Learn about the healing properties of crystals and how to use them.

Please call the store to register. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. 352693-4592. FairyDustCrystals.com.

Sound Bath with Your Phoenix Is Rising – 7-8pm.

Free. Be bathed in the sound of Singing Bowls, Spirit Drum, Kirimba and Tibetan Bowls. Stay after to play the bowls yourself. Dress comfortably and bring a blanket and pillow. Center for Spiritual Living Ocala. 1009 NE 28th Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897. CSLOcala.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

Yoga with Julie – 6-7pm. $12. All levels. Experience peace, love and light during this soul flow session. Soul Essentials of Ocala, 805 SE Ft. King St, Ocala. 352-236-7000. SoulEssentialsOfOcala.com.

Gainesville Art Walk – 7-10pm. Free. Self-guided tour with visual art, live performance and events downtown. Local galleries, eateries and business participating. ArtWalkGainesville.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Little Run on the Prairie 5k – 7am-Noon. $30 Adults, $20 Youth 18 and under.. Trail run through the holistic and pristine Paynes Prairie. Friendly dogs welcome on a leash. Alachua County 4-H, 2800 NE 39TH Ave, Gainesville. 352-955-2402.

LittleRunOnThePraire.ItsYourRace.com.

Yoga in the Park – 8:30-9:30am. $12 cash only.

Open to all levels. Yoga class to be led by Haley Miller in the beautiful state park. Silver Springs State Park, 5656 East Silver Springs State Park, Ocala.

Gainesville Craft Festival 2019 – 10am-5pm. $2-$5. Annual craft festival with authentic crafts by talented artisans and crafters. Plenty of unique merchandise and gifts from hundreds of different vendors. Exactech Arena at the Stephen O’Connell Center. 250 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville. 352392-5500. OConnellCenter.UFL.edu.

Psychic/Medium Spiritual Development Class – 2-4:30pm. $30. Includes meditation, lesson and practice. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville. 407-247-7823. IFSK.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Transcendence Is Our Personal Path – 10:30am.

With guest speaker Rev. Patricia Wagner, Divine Science minister and founder of LookingFor Light.net. Sunday message “Transcendence Is Our Personal Path.” Center for Spiritual Living Ocala. 1009 NE 28th Ave, Ocala. 352-629-3897.

CSLocala.org.

Transcendance – 1pm. Dance as Spiritual Practice, led by Abby David. Join in the dance or simply enjoy watching others. Love Offering. Center for Spiritual Living Ocala. 1009 NE 28th Ave, Ocala.

352-629-3897. CSLOcala.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm.

Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561.

DrLoraColeman.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Psychic/Medium Spiritual Development Class – 6-8:30pm. $35. Includes meditation, lesson and practice. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. Holiday Inn Express, 1205 Avenida Central, Lady Lake. 407-247-7823. IFSK.org.

Empath Support Group with Patricia Squires – 11am-1pm. $20. Will discuss what is to be an empath, tools to deal with it, share with like-minded people. Please call to register. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. 352693-4592. FairyDustCrystals.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11

Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

Sound Healing with Crystal Singing Bowls Presentation and Sessions with Lynn Janoski – Presentation, Noon-1pm. Free. Sessions available 2-5pm, $35/half hour. Please call to sign up. High Springs Emporium, 19765 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs. 386-454-8657. HighSpringsEmporium.net.

Psychic/Medium Spiritual Development Class – 2-4:30pm. $35. Includes meditation, lesson and practice. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. Holiday Inn Express, 1205 Avenida Central, Lady Lake. 407-247-7823. IFSK.org.

Sounds of the Season: An American Holiday – 5pm. Free. The University of Florida College of the Arts and the School of Music presents its annual holiday concert. 3201 Hull Rd, Gainesville.

PerformingArts.UFL.edu.

Nadi Om Holiday Open House – 1-4pm. A time for community. Visit the studio, meet the owner, shop for the holidays and enjoy the afternoon. Free. Nadi Om Wellness. 6118 SW Hwy 200, Ocala. 352-5250247. NadiOmWellness.com.

Food Truck Rally – 5pm. Free. 18+ only. High Dive Beer Garden & Venue to host local food trucks during SEC Championship Game. High Dive Beer & Garden. 210 SW 2nd Ave, Downtown Gainesville.

HighDiveGainesville.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

34

Ocala/Gainesville FL

GoNaturalAwakenings.com

Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

Working with Angels Class with JoEllen Blue – 2:30-4:30pm, 5:30-7:30pm. $30. Find your guardian angel, learn about archangels and doing angel card readings. Please call to register. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. 352693-4592. FairyDustCrystals.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12

MONDAY, DECEMBER 23

Full Moon Drum Circle – 7-11:30pm. Free. Safe place where anyone from any background is welcome to join, play an instrument, dance freely or simply sit and meditate to the positive energy of the collective group. Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St, Gainesville.

Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25

Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

Full Moon Drum Gathering – 8pm-midnight. Must be 18 and older. Co-hosted with Ocala Drum Circles.

Drums and percussion only. Extra drums provided first-come first-serve. Outdoor bonfire, dancing and fire spinning. Muddy Lotus Tea, 520 NE 1st Ave, Ocala. 352-559-3003. MuddyLotusTea.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Reiki Share with Rev. Kathleen Cairns – 11am1pm. Free. Mini healing sessions with Rev. Cairns and her students. Please call to register. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. 352-693-4592. FairyDustCrystals.com.

Darkness into Light: Transmuting Energy with the Stones of High Ascension Workshop with Sharron Britton – 2-4pm, $20. Call to sign up. High Springs Emporium, 19765 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs. 386-454-8657. HighSpringsEmporium.net Introduction to Palmestry with Rev. Bobbie Roberts – 2-4pm. $30. Learn all the basics about palmestry. Please call to register. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. 352693-4592. FairyDustCrystals.com.

Ocala Sisterhood Tribe Women’s Circle – 6-8pm.

Ladies only. Free, RSVP/Donation appreciated.

Share, support, drum, sing, dance, craft and enjoy games during this sacred circle centered around an altar. Each meeting is unique to itself.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

Thermography Imaging – 10am-5pm. A healthy alternative to mammograms. The only way to detect inflammation in the human body and screen for

early signs of disease. Imaging service provided by Certified Clinical Thermographer. Space is limited, call to reserve your spot. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200 Suite 301, Ocala. 352-291-9459.

LemireClinic.org.

Patient Education – 6pm. Learn what we do and time to ask questions. Free. Seating is limited, call to reserve your seat. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Suite 301, Ocala. 352-291-9459.

LemireClinic.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Psychic/Medium Spiritual Development Class – 10:30am-1pm. $35. Includes meditation, lesson and practice. Fairy Dust Crystals and Such, 11781 SE US Hwy 441, Belleview. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. Fairy Dust Crystals & Such, 11781 SE Hwy 441, Belleview. 407-247-7823. IFSK.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary – 10am-1pm. Holiday shopping. Specials on jewelry, herbs, teas and essential oils. Verify holiday hours on the website. Martha’s EarthChild Apothecary, 810 E. University Ave, Suite B, Gainesville. 305-298-6561. DrLoraColeman.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Peace on Earth - Annual Holiday Celebration – 11am-6pm. Free. Spend a day of peace and bliss with live music, free relaxing BioMat sessions, crystal gifts for everyone, champagne and holiday goodies and all of our Countdown to the Holiday sale prices honored. High Springs Emporium, 19765 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs. 386-454-8657.

HighSpringsEmporium.net.

Dances of Universal Peace – 2:30-9:30pm. $10 suggested donation. All are welcome to join in spiritual dance hosted by Dancing Peacock Paradise. Come early to enjoy the property and sign in. Call to register and get directions. Dancing Peacock Paradise. 352-546-1345.

FLRetreats@gmail.com. PeacockParadise.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28 Rocks for Kids with Travis Hetsler - 11am-Noon. $10. Learn about rocks and minerals and get some cool free stuff. Parents are welcome to attend for free. Please call to sign up. High Springs Emporium, 19765 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs. 386-4548657. HighSpringsEmporium.net.

plan ahead WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1 Wednesday Bird Walks at the Wetlands – 8:3011:30am. $5. Discover a rich diversity of birds in one of Florida’s birding hotspot. Birding field trips to be led by volunteers from the Alachua Audubon Society.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Rd, Gainesville. 352-393-8520. SweetwaterWetlands.org.

Barnyard Buddies Nature Program – 3-4pm. Free.

Vegetable donations appreciated. Children are invited to meet farm animals at the Living History Farm. Morning Side Nature Center, 3540 E University Ave, Gainesville.

352-334-5067. CityOf GainesvilleParks.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2 Thursday Night Poetry Jam – 8-11pm. Free. Family friendly. All styles invited. Gainesville’s longest running open mic poetry reading. All forms of word based art are welcome. Civic Media Center, 433 S Main St, Gainesville. 352-373-0010. CivicMediaCenter.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 Ocala Eats - 5-9pm. Free. All welcome to enjoy new foods from multiple food vendors, music and entertainment. Ocala Downtown Market, SE 3rd Ave, Ocala. 352-629-8051. OcalaMarion.com.

Remember, PLANS CHANGE! Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

(352) 559-3003 • 520 NE 1ST AVENUE, OCALA December 2019

35

ongoing events

Commerce office. 14801 Main Street, Alachua.

386-462-3333. Alachuafarmersmarket.com.

NOTE: All calendar events must be submitted via our website by the 10th of the month and must adhere to our guidelines. Visit GoNaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

Fit In The Park: Zumba – 5:30-6:30pm. Ages 10+. Free. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-368-5517.

sunday

ACA Meeting – 6pm. Adult Children of Alcoholics. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd. 352-687-2113.

Mail@UnityOcala.org. UnityOcala.org.

Embodiment 101 – 6:30-8pm. Body awareness movement followed by meditation. Shambhala Gainesville, 1899 NE 23rd Ave. 352-214-1334.

Gainesville.Shambhala.org.

A Course in Miracles – 9:30am. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave. UnityGainesville.org.

A Course in Miracles – 6:30pm. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave. UnityGainesville.org.

Karaoke – 8-11pm. Muddy Lotus Tea, 520 NE 1st Ave, Ocala. 352-559-3003. MuddyLotusTea.com.

Spiritual Service – 9:30am. Let the spirit guide you with hands-on healing, meditations, messages and more. Conscious Awakening, 301 SR26, Melrose.

352-262-0078. BackToBasicsLiving@gmail.com.

tuesday

friday

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free. Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala.

352-401-3920.

Health Happens Farmers’ Market – 9am-2:30pm.

Shop for fresh produce, seafood, honey, baked goods, gluten-free snacks and prepared meals for lunch. McPherson Governmental Complex field, 601 SE 25th Ave, Ocala. 352-438-2360.

Sunday Spiritual Service – 10am. Unity of Ocala, 101 Cedar Rd. 352­-687­-2113. Mail@UnityOcala. org. UnityOcala.org.

Guided Meditation and Sunday Service – 10am (meditation); 10:30am (service). Rev. Cindy Grimes, Senior Minister. Awaken and live. Center for Spiritual Living Ocala, 1009 NE 28th Ave. 352629-3897. CSLocala.org.

Meditation and Book Discussion – 10:30am-noon.

Shambhala Gainesville, 1899 NE 23rd Ave. 352214-1334. Gainesville.Shambhala.org.

Brewery Yoga at First Magnitude – 1-2pm.

Bring your own mat for yoga in the warehouse.

All experience levels. Suggested $5 donation. First Magnitude Brewing Co, 1220 SE Veitch, Gainesville. 352-727-4677.

Newberry Farmers Market – 4-7pm. A local producer only market focused on food with additional vendors. Located on the corner of Newberry Road and 254th St. 352-472-2112. nmsoinfo@gmail.com.

Newberrymainstreet.com Fit In The Park: Zumba – 5:30-6:30pm. Ages 10+. Free. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 368-5517.

Meditation Instruction and Orientation – 7-9pm.

Meditation, book discussion, refreshments to follow.

Shambhala Gainesville, 1899 NE 23rd Ave. 352214-1334. Gainesville.Shambhala.org

monday

wednesday

Amethyst Bio-Mat – By appointment. Seating is limited. Reduces stress, relieves pain, and improves the immune system. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ste 301, Ocala. 352­-291-­9459.

LemireClinic.com.

Qigong – 10am. With Dr. Neil Crenshaw and Dr. Don Mederios. Donations go to Connected Warriors. Van Ness Park Civic Center, G Ave and 7th St, McIntosh. 352-425-2975.

Ionic Foot Detox – By appointment. Seating is limited. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ste 301, Ocala. 352-­291-­9459. LemireClinic.com.

Latest in IV Therapies – By appointment. Seating is limited. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ste 301, Ocala. 352­-291-­9459. LemireClinic.com.

Traditional Hatha Flow Yoga – 8:30am. An intermediate yoga class with Johanna Marsan. $12.

Nadi Om Wellness. 6118 SW Hwy 200, Ocala.

352-525-0247. NadiOmWellness.com.

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free.

Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-401-3920.

Hearing Screenings – Afternoons by appointment. Seating is limited. Free. Lemire Clinic, 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ste 301, Ocala. 352­-291-­9459.

LemireClinic.com.

Namasitstay K9 Fit Club Class – 5-6 pm. Now – Nov 18. Ages 18+. You and your pooch will enjoy a form of yoga that combines massage and gentle stretching. Bring yoga mat, towel or blanket and snacks for the pup. Letty Towles Dog Park, 2299 SE 36 Ave., Ocala. 352-401-3918.

Fit In The Park: Zumba – 5:30-6:30pm. Ages 10+. Free. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-368-5517.

36

Ocala/Gainesville FL

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free.

Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-401-3920.

Technology Help Center – 2-4pm. Free. Belleview Public Library, 13145 SE Hwy 484. 352-438-2500.

Fit In The Park: Zumba – 5:30-6:30pm. Ages 10+. Free. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-368-5517.

Game Night – 7:30pm. Muddy Lotus Tea, 520 NE 1st Ave, Ocala. 352-559-3003. MuddyLotusTea.com.

thursday

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free. Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala.

352-401-3920.

saturday Alachua County Farmers’ Market – 8:30amnoon. Open rain or shine. A grower’s only market.

5920 NW 13 th St, Gainesville. 352-371-8236.

441market.com Haile Farmers Market – 8:30am-noon. Open rain or shine, heat or cold. Haile Village Center in Haile Plantation, SW 91st Terr, Gainesville.

HaileFarmersMarket.com.

Ocala Farm Market – 9am-2pm. Locallygrown farm fresh seasonal produce, homemade jellies and jams, crafts and plants. Corner of SE 3rd St and SE 3rd Ave, Ocala. 352-629-8051.

OcalaDowntownMarket.com.

Farmstead Saturday – 9am-­3pm. Free. Crones Cradle Conserve, 6411 NE 217 Pl, Citra.

352­-595-­3377. CronesCradleConserve.com.

Starlab Planetarium Shows – 11-11:30am, 1-1:30pm. Tour our solar system and learn about the stars and constellations. $3/person/session plus exhibit admission of $6/person or $22/family of four. Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave, Ocala. Ocala.org.

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free.

Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-401-3920.

Gentle Flow Yoga – 10am. All levels yoga class that is prenatal friendly with Johanna Marsan. $12.

Nadi Om Wellness. 6118 SW Hwy 200, Ocala.

352-525-0247. NadiOmWellness.com.

Psychic/Medium Spiritual Development Class – 2-4:30pm. With International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. One Saturday each month.

Includes meditation, lesson and practice. $30.

Call or check website to confirm date. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave. 407-2477823. ifsk.org.

Fitness Zone – Noon-8pm. Ages 14+. Free.

Cardio and strength training equipment. E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala. 352-401-3920.

The Third Testament Foundation – 8pm. What is The Third Testament? Introduction to the Third Testament by Martinus. Live Stream with chat. Free.

941-462-3177. Infinite808@gmail.com.

Alachua Farmers Market – 4-7pm. A local producer only market where most foods have been picked or made that day. Behind the Chamber of

Fire Flow – 9pm. Fire spinners and poi with music outside. Muddy Lotus Tea, 520 NE 1st Ave, Ocala.

352-559-3003. MuddyLotusTea.com.

A Course in Miracles – 10am. Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave. UnityGainesville.org.

GoNaturalAwakenings.com

community resource guide

JANUARY

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

COLONICS GENTLE WATERS HEALING CENTER 352-374-0600 Gainesville Info@GentleWatersHealing.com

The therapists at Gentle Waters Healing Center assist each individual with detoxing using colon hydrotherapy and/or far infrared sauna. Call Dawn Brower for more information or visit G e n t l e Wa t e r s H e a l i n g . c o m .

MA41024, MM15426.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE JAMES LEMIRE, MD

Lemire Clinic 9401 SW Hwy 200, Suite 301 352-291-9459 • LemireClinic.com Dr. Lemire is both Board Certified in Family Practice for 40 years and is an Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) Certified Practitioner. Some of the common protocols Dr. Lemire works with are: Thyroid conditions, Chronic Fatigue, MS, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Leaky Gut, Cancer, Hormone Unbalances, Heavy Metal Toxicity, Inflammatory and Auto Immune Conditions, Lyme Disease, Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, and Weight Management. Dr. Lemire sees children and adults. See ad, page 3.

HEALING ARTS SANDY WILSON

EFT, Emotion Code, Body Code, Hypnosis 352-454-8959 EFTSandy@yahoo.com SandraWilsonPositiveChange.com You can achieve your health, wealth and relationship goals.

Certified Energy Healer, Sandy will help you eliminate blocks to be successful in getting fit, having better relationships, reaching business goals. Why wait? See website or call to start your path to success.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ISSUE

Coming Next Month

Healthy Immune System

Plus: Age-Defying Habits

LOCALLY-GROWN PRODUCE CRONES’ CRADLE CONSERVE FOUNDATION 6411 NE 217th Pl, Citra 352-595-3377 CronesCradleConserve.org

The conserve is an ecological preserve, retreat center and organic farm. Local fresh produce can be bought at The Farm Store on property, through Farm to Fare weekly Baskets or delivered to your restaurant. The Farm Store is open 7 days a week. Certified kitchen honey house and event space available. See ad, page 15.

mission

statement

To empower individuals to live a healthier lifestyle on a healthier planet.

To educate communities on the latest in natural health and sustainability.

To connect readers with local wellness resources and events, inspiring them to lead more balanced lives.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

352-366-0088 December 2019

37

NATURAL MENTAL HEALTH DR. LORA COLEMAN, LCSW

810 E. University, Suite B, Gainesville 305-298-6561 DrLoraColeman@gmail.com DrLoraColeman.com As a Doctor of Natural Health and licensed Clinical Social Worker, Dr. Coleman offers traditional mental health and spiritual counseling. Dr. Coleman’s full Apothecary carries herbs, teas, essential oils, nutritional supplements and education to support natural healing. Dr. Coleman offers Reiki, meditation, Past Life Regression, Chakra Clearing, Theta Healing, crystals, stones and jewelry for healing. Insurance is accepted.

REIKI

SCHOOL BODHI SANGHA THAI MASSAGE AND SCHOOL OF TRADITIONAL THAI FOLK MEDICINE 813-417-6745 BodhiSangha.com ArielaGrodner@yahoo.com

Students can advance in their studies of Thai Massage and Tr a d i t i o n a l T h a i F o l k Medicine. Courses offered are; Thai Foot Reflexology, Double Practitioner Thai Massage, and Thai Herbal Bundle Therapeutics. The Bodhi Sangha Shala is a place to grow and learn, to build community, to cultivate mindfulness and compassion, and to deepen one’s studies of the ancient healing art of Thai Massage. See ad, page 22.

VETERINARY CARE

DEBI GOLDBEN, RM/T, LMT

MEDICINE WHEEL VETERINARY SERVICES

MA78069/MM37419 13722 SW 40th Circle, Ocala 352-209-0303 DebiGoldben@gmail.com DebiGoldben.com

As a House Healer and Intuitive Spiritual Teacher/Coach, Debi uses a unique blend of techniques and spiritual guidance to clear t h e c l u t t e r. W h e t h e r i t ’s Geopathic Stress or nonbeneficial energies/spirts, Debi can help reduce or eliminate physical and emotional discomfort.

Shauna Cantwell, DVM Ocala 352-538-3021 ShaunaCantwell.com

Holistic veterinary medicine for small animals and horses. Arthritis, neurologic and hormonal dysfunction, skin, allergies, cancer, pain, immune and chronic disease. Certified veterinary acu-puncture, certified-AVCA animal chiropractic, herbal therapy, tui na medical massage, functional neurology, postural rehabilitation, ozone therapy, homotoxicology and nutrition. Available for workshops. See ad, page 16.

FIND YOUR

classifieds Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $20 for the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word. To place an ad, email Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

ADVERTISING ADVERTISE HERE – Are you: hiring, renting property/office space, selling products, offering services, or in need of volunteers? Advertise your personal/business needs in Natural Awakenings classified ads section. To place an ad, email Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

OPPORTUNITIES START A CAREER YOU CAN BE PASSIONATE ABOUT – Publish your own Natural Awakenings magazine. Home-based business complete with comprehensive training and support system. New franchises are available or purchase a magazine that is currently publishing. Call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/Franchise.

STEM CELL AFFORDABLE STEM CELL TECHNOLOGY – Anti-aging phototherapy patch that activates your own stem cells! – Contact Dianne Purdie, LifeWave Independent Distributor at 352-598-7319, email DiannePurdielw@gmail. com or visit LifeWave.com/abundanthealth and LiveYounger.cc for more information.

DELIVERY DRIVERS WANTED MAGAZINE DELIVERY/DISTRIBUTION OPPORTUNITY – Natural Awakenings magazine is looking for Independent Contractors to deliver/distribute magazines to designated locations in The Villages, Ocala, Gainesville and surrounding areas. Requirements: must have a Florida driver’s license, reliable transportation, car insurance and be organized. For additional details, contact Sheila Mahan at 352-366-0088 or Sheila@GoNaturalAwakenings.com.

Conscious breath control is a useful tool for achieving a relaxed, clear state of mind. ~Andrew Weil

We invite you to join and experience a truly conscious, loving, dating environment with amazing members.

TRY FOR FREE!

Visit us at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com 38

Ocala/Gainesville FL

GoNaturalAwakenings.com

The first combined Anti-Aging, Holistic, and Family Practice Clinic in Central Florida and The Villages

352-750-4333

SERVICES OFFERED:

✦ Peptides ✦ Exosomes: The Next Generation in Regeneration Therapy and Stem Cell Therapy ✦ Amniotic ✦ Adipose ✦ Bone marrow ✦ PRP-platelet Rich Plasma ✦ Prolo Therapy ✦ Prolozone ✦ Neural Therapy ✦ Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

✦ Chelation and IV Nutrient ✦ Urinary Incontinence ✦ Femlift Vaginal Tightening ✦ Soundwave for ED ✦ Laser Therapy for pain ✦ Spectravision (Full Body Analysis Test) ✦ Nutritional Counseling ✦ Weight Loss ✦ Pulse Magnetic Wave ✦ Antioxidant Evaluation ✦ Mineral Evaluation ✦ Heavy Metal Evaluation

Nelson Kraucak, MD, FAAFP “We are committed to aid and promote the body’s innate mechanisms to heal and achieve homeostasis for optimum health by introducing and using natural approaches with innovative and cutting-edge technology.”

Individual responses may vary

Jaclynn Sola, LMT

MA56771 Over 10 years experience Specializing In: • Raindrop Therapy – • Cupping for Aromatheraphy Pain Relief and utilizing essential oils Lymphatic Drainage • Myo Fascial Release • Sports Massage/ • Deep Tissue Golf Massage • Hot Stone Massage • Cranial Sacral • Body Scrubs/Wraps SpectraVision • Reflexology/Foot • Reiki Master Massage Tuning Forks • Cellulite Reduction • Colonics Massage

On-Site Financing Available

Call to Schedule Your Appointment:

352-750-4333

Karin Panyko

Licensed Aesthetician Over 13 years experience Specializing In: • Micro Derm Abrasion • Spa Facial/Galvanic (tightens and tones cheek muscles) • High Frequency Therapy • Light Therapy • Facial Massage – Deep Tissue My passion is to assist others in achieving their balance with inner and outer beauty.

Gretta Ellis, ARNP

Over 10 years experience Specializing In: • Chronic Disease • Gastro-Intestinal Disorders • Alternative Medicine • SIBO/Leaky Gut • Bio Identical Hormone Replacement - BHT • ER and Internal Medicine Experience

Healing Central Florida, One Stem Cell at a Time!

Healthcare Partners Family Medicine 1501 HWY 441, Suite 1704, The Villages, FL, 32159 www. HealthcarePartnersFL.com Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm December 2019

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ISSUE

JANUARY

Age-Defying Habits

plus: Healthy Immune System

Readers are Seeking These Providers & Services:

Energy Healing • Fitness/Health Clubs • Integrative Physicians • Life Coaching Personal Development Tools • Wellness Trainers • Meditation Instruction • Spiritual Healing Yoga Classes • Natural/Organic Foods ... and this is just a partial list!

PLANT-BASED NUTRITION ISSUE

FEBRUARY

MARCH

Cardiovascular Health

Thriving on a Plant-Based Diet

plus: Regenerative Medicine

plus: CBD

CONNECT WITH OUR READERS

THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL CALENDAR & MARKETING PLANNER Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at:

352-366-0088

40

Ocala/Gainesville FL

GoNaturalAwakenings.com