January 2018

E R F

E

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Expect a Miracle Five Ways to Manifest Your Desires

8

WAYS TO RESTORE GUT HEALTH

Dial Down

STRESS

How to Stay Calm and Cool

2018

Natural Living

Directory

January 2018 January 2018 | Houston-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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Allow us to guide you on a journey to physical and spiritual cleansing, rejuvenation, and balance

DEER LAKE LODGE & SPA wellness, pure and simple

Unfortunately, when our bodies are overloaded with toxins and stress, they can’t function effectively. The result? We get sick, stressed and tired.

That’s why we created Deer Lake Lodge & Spa — to help our guests push the “reset” button and get back to a healthier way of living.

SEMI-JUICING FAST YOGA/MEDITATION DETOX/CLEANSING LIFE ENHANCEMENT CLASSES RAW FOOD CLASSES

To Book A Stay, Call: 936-647-1383 To book a stay, call:

936-647-1383

10500 Deer Lake Lodge Road, Montgomery, Texas 77316 2

deerlakelodge.com

Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Contents 13 HOW WILL

14

YOU TRUST IN SPIRIT?

14 EAT WHEAT AGAIN Eight Ways to Restore Gut Health

16 DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

19 WHAT IS STRESS WEIGHT LOSS

How Can You Achieve It?

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23 UNDERSTANDING NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements

25 EXPECT A MIRACLE Five Ways to Manifest Our Desires

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ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 713-927-6540 or email Sales@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month..

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month..

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

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

29 MONEY ESTEEM

The Biggest Threat to Our Dreams

31 KICK THE

35

PLASTIC HABIT

Choose Earth-Friendly Alternatives

33 HAROLD KOENIG on Why Science Finds Faith a Healthy Choice

35 10,000 STEPS AND COUNTING Keep Moving to Stay Fit

DEPARTMENTS 5 news briefs 5 event briefs 7 art naturally 7 entertainment

naturally 8 health briefs 9 dining naturally 10 global briefs 12 eco tip 14 conscious eating

21 natural living

directoryural 23 healing ways 25 inspiration 31 green living 33 wise words 35 fit body 38 calendar 43 resource guide January 2018

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letter from publisher

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

G

reetings!

Another year has come and gone.

How fast the time flies! As we begin our fourth year as publishers, it seems like both yesterday and a lifetime ago when we published our first Natural Awakenings.

2017 was an interesting year with lots of new features in the magazine and lots of challenges, but we are still here, still publishing and so proud that in this month’s issue we have our first annual Natural Living Directory. Be sure to pull it out and save it as a reference throughout the year. This is also the first month for several new monthly columns that will review a local artist, entertainment event and offer a positive affirmation for the month.

Cindy and I have never been ones for making New Year’s Resolutions. Too often the resolutions aren’t kept and we feel bad at “failing” to keep them. Instead we set goals to reach toward. Goals are more flexible. If you reach one, you can celebrate and set another one. If you don’t reach your goal, it’s time to reevaluate and maybe give yourself more time, reset the goal lower or even substitute a new goal for the one you didn’t reach. No pain. No guilt.

One of the goals we have set is to increase our digital edition subscriptions. I think Natural Awakenings will always, for the foreseeable future anyway, be a print magazine but many people, especially younger people, prefer to read their content on their tablet or phone. If you’d like to subscribe to the digital edition, just text NAHTX to 66866 and share this with your family and friends. If you prefer to read the print edition but have trouble finding it just email us at mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com with your zip code and we will either point you to one of our current distribution points in your area or set up a new one in your zip code.

In closing, remember to always be kind. It doesn’t usually cost anything and may just make someone’s day.

Bright blessings,

Mike & Cindy Hart

HOUSTON EDITION PUBLISHER Cindy & Mike Hart EDITORS Barbara Silberg Sarah Gish

Carrie Harmon Cherie Ray DESIGN & PRODUCTION Paul Scott Helene Leininger Marsha Baker Stephanie Herriman Tammy Leal CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Doyle Ward

Sarah Gish

Linda Sechrist

SALES & MARKETING BARBARA SILBERG TATYANA MARTIN

WEBSITE Mike Hart

CONTACT US 448 West 19th Street #419 Houston, TX 77008 Ph: 713-927-6540 • Fax: 713-880-9979 NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Sign up to receive our free digital ezine!

Subscription form on website. naturalawakenings-houston.com

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman PRESIDENT Patrick McGroder

NATIONAL EDITOR Alison Chabonais

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett SR. ART/MKTG. DIRECTOR Steve Hagewood FINANCIAL MANAGER Mary Bruhn FRANCHISE DIRECTOR Anna Romano FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Scofield Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Mike & Cindy Hart

© 2018 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

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

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

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

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Houston

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event briefs

news briefs

Affirming Naturally Loving Yourself

by Doyle Ward ou have about 55,000 thoughts each day. Every single one is an affirmation; this includes everything that you say. By reducing your negative thoughts and words and increasing the positive ones, you can reshape your life. Expecting a better day helps to create a better day. This month’s affirmation can help create a better life.

Y

I love myself right where I am; exactly as I am.

Loving yourself is powerful. It boosts your confidence and selfesteem in all areas of your life—it is one of the biggest things you can do for self-care.

The only thing that you are guaranteed in life is this moment. Working with positive affirmations can radically change your mindset. Say them and write them repeatedly with the feeling that they are your truth.

Doyle Ward is a successful life coach, workshop leader and lecturer in the field of personal development. Blissful Quests®, 832-628-4113.

BlissfulQuests.com. See ad on page 20.

Lunar New Year 2018: Forever Spring!

Sunday February 4 from 10am-8pm

W

e welcome everyone to join us to celebrate “Forever Spring” Lunar New Year 2018 at our new Awake Center!

Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, Awake teacher and founder of Universal Door Meditation Center, has a goal to help everyone Wake Up, break the system of ego, and live in Awakened happiness always, hence the theme “Forever Spring!” Come celebrate with us, discover something new you may not have known before, and experience the cultural atmosphere of an Awake New Year’s marketplace. Enjoy fresh authentic Vietnamese food and drink. Meet our Zen Master. Listen to live music and watch our Dragon Dance. Shop at the many craft booths. Bring the whole family and celebrate Lunar New Year with us!

Universal Door Meditation Center, 15202 Dora Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498. Universaldoor.org. See ad on page 7.

Experience face-face hypnotism training & practice with Path Foundation Texas, LLC

Call for the 2018 schedules and to register: (281) 359-PATH Claudia@pathtexas.com I www.pathfoundation.com January 2018

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Listen • Share • Learn

“Whole Mother”

Every Sunday at 7:30pm Join us every Sunday as we discuss the political & practical aspects of being a MOTHER The Guide to Good Divorce - January 27

This Radio Program is hosted by Pat Jones

helps women prepare for divorce and start over

T 90.1 KPFT is Houston’s Community Radio Station

Thermography can be used to visualize & document temperature patterns and changes.

Before you can feel it, Thermography can see it!

Breast Screening

Half Body Screening

Full Body Screenings

Thermal Imaging Services ThermalimagingTexas.com 713-621-4406 24550 Kingsland Blvd. Katy, TX 77494 Our Locations:

Katy *Houston *Kingwood/Humble *The Woodlands *Beaumont *Tyler *Tomball *Texarkana

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Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

he Guide to Good Divorce seminars, launched in 2012, is a unique and increasingly popular Houston program designed to help women transition legally, financially and spiritually through the divorce process to a healthier, happier life — post-divorce.

“Divorce is rarely easy -- yet navigating these rough waters with a road map based on knowledge, preparation and support can be transformational,” explains Trey Yates, a Houston- based, board-certified family law attorney and founder of the program.

“Our seminars are holistic in scope and provide women with vital information they need to make informed decisions about the divorce process and putting their lives back together,” says Yates. “The program addresses the legal and financial challenges of divorce, and also its potential as a time of self-discovery and personal growth. Our program also encourages attendees to build support communities, and address spiritual wellness needs.”

For more information on Guide to Good Divorce seminars, visit www.GuideToGoodDivorce.com, or call 713-932-7177. See ad on page 36.

entertainment naturally

Lukas Beck

art naturally

Vienna Boys Choir

by Mike Hart Drew Spencer Wolod

C

Jaz Henry’s Cyanotype

by Mike Hart

C

indy and I met artist Jaz Henry at an event at Avant Garden this past month and were immediately drawn to her striking works of art. She was born and raised in Houston and while in school in New Mexico, she discovered a pre-silver photographic process called Cyanotype or Sunprint. It was originally invented by John Hershel in 1842 and was used mainly as a method of copying notes and architectural blueprints. The deep blue hue and high contrast images are striking and what attracted Jaz to the process. She took her photography and dissected it into its basic form of composition and process to take it where she wanted to go. In her work she creates digital collages from found imagery as well as her own images and uses the cyanotype process to invoke an esoteric feel that reflects on historical, spiritual and societal references.

We were drawn to the sometimes nostalgic, sometimes futuristic, sometimes very gothic images in her art. Follow her on Facebook at JazHenryArt and on Instagram jaz. henry.art. Her current portfolio is at jazhenry.com and her new brand, Stone and Sigil that revolves around art, history and mysticism at StoneandSigil.com.

indy and I were privileged to attend this winter’s concert by the Vienna Boys Choir as a guest of Scott Brogan the president of Brilliant Lecture Series which hosted the concert. The choir is composed of boys ages 10 to 14 from all over the world. It’s hard to describe the experience.

Words like wow, amazing, angelic come to mind but don’t really capture the degree of perfection that the boys of the choir exhibit. The program included classical and folk pieces and ended with some modern pop songs. Both the boys and their conductor Manolo Cagnin, obviously took what they were doing seriously but they also seemed to really enjoy their work and had a great deal of fun with a couple of the pieces. I’m thinking particularly of one called Duetto buffo per due gatti, which was a duet between a couple of the boys who voiced it as cats. Meow!

The Vienna Boys Choir is not likely to return to Houston any time soon, but Brilliant Lecture Series will be bringing other equally exciting events to Houston in coming months. Check their website for program updates.

Experience Your Special Delivery

Brilliant Lecture Series, brilliantlectures.org In A Comfortable Intimate Setting

When The Inner Light Is On, EVERYTHING IS CLEAR True happiness & true freedom are already within us.

However, our perceptions & holdings block us from living with it. Realize the source of these blocks to live truly happy… anywhere, anytime, always.

Universal Door Meditation Center 281-565-9718 • UniversalDoor.org 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498

• Personal, Private Care • Mom & Baby Never Separated • Home Visits For Follow Up Care • Licensed & Accredited Birth Center • Houston’s Most Experienced Midwives Call Today & schedule a complimentary consultation to tour our facilities, meet our staff and talk about the care you envision:

(713) 472-5525 3210 Strawberry Rd • Pasadena, Texas • www.BayAreaBirthCenter.com Pasadena Birth Center, offices in Houston Heights and Beaumont

January 2018

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A Swiss study gave volunteers $25 a week for four weeks, and told half of them to spend the money on themselves and the others to spend it to benefit others. Subsequent brain scans revealed a link between the altruistic acts and feelings of contentment, activating neurons in the ventral striatum associated with happiness. Even the intention alone to be more generous was enough to create these changes, and the amount spent did not influence the increase in levels of well-being. The discovery sheds fresh light on why many people feel gratified when giving, even when it costs them something.

Mercury/Autism Brain Research Alert As the debate rages between health officials and vaccine critics about possible links to autism, mercury seems to be a specific bone of contention. It has long been present in the form of thimerisol, a preservative that inhibits bacterial contamination. Under government pressure, amounts have been reduced by the pharmaceutical industry to trace levels or eliminated, except in commonly recommended flu vaccines, some of which contain the food emulsifier polysorbate 80, which disrupts the bloodbrain barrier and helps create an extremely effective delivery system for escorting neurotoxic ethylmercury and other heavy metals straight to the brain.

The U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences reports that ethylmercury, in particular, gets metabolized into even more toxic inorganic mercury and remains in the brain for years.

Sugar Linked to Depression The journal Scientific Reports recently published a study that confirmed a link between a diet high in sugar and common mental disorders. In 2002, researchers from Baylor College found that higher rates of refined sugar consumption were associated with higher rates of depression. A 2015 study that included nearly 70,000 women found a higher likelihood of depression in those with high added sugar intake, but not in those with a high intake of naturally occurring sugars such as those found in fruit.

The World Health Organization recommends that people reduce their daily intake of added sugars to less than 5 percent of their total energy intake; Americans typically consume three times that much. Meanwhile, one in six people worldwide suffers from a common mental problem such as a mood or anxiety disorder.

Widi Design/Shutterstock.com

Generosity Cheers Mind, Body and Spirit

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zhuk _ ladybug/Shutterstock.com

health briefs

Eating fish at least twice a week may significantly reduce the pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis,in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, creating swelling and pain. Studies have already shown the beneficial effect of fish oil supplements on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, but a new study of 176 participants at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, found that increasing the amount of fish containing omega-3 they ate weekly as a whole food lowered their disease activity.

The Arthritis Foundation estimates that about 1.5 million people in the U.S. have the disease; women far more often than men.

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Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Stephen VanHorn/Shutterstock.com

FISH OIL TWICE WEEKLY EASES ARTHRITIS

gpointstudio/Shutterstock.com

dining naturally

Govinda’s Vegetarian Cuisine

by Mike Hart

AEROBICS KEEP THE BRAIN YOUNG Simple movement turns out to be the best way to lift mood, improve memory and protect the brain against age-related cognitive decline, according to Harvard Medical School researchers in an article, “Aerobic Exercise is the Key for Your Head, Just as It is for Your Heart.” Even brisk walking or jogging for 45 minutes can alleviate depression. The Journal of Physical Therapy Science notes that aerobic workouts can help people feel less stressed by reducing levels of the body’s natural stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.

Cindy and I have been regulars at Govinda’s since it opened because the food is really good, their prices are reasonable and it’s the only vegetarian Indian restaurant near The Heights. It has the added advantage since it is a temple restaurant that we can visit the temple before or after we eat.

It is located on West 34th Street in the west wing of the ISKCON Temple. Govinda is another name for Krishna so it makes perfect sense. The restaurant is spacious and beautifully decorated with wall murals.

There is plenty of parking and you will be cheerfully greeted at the door and escorted to your table or booth. Govinda’s is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and is an “all you can eat” buffet. The food is lacto-vegetarian but most of it is actual vegan. The vegan dishes are labeled as are those with or without gluten. If you think all Indian food is fiery hot, you may be in for a surprise. A few of the dishes have some heat but most are rather mild so you can fully appreciate all the other Indian spices. If fiery hot is what you like, there is a bowl of fresh sliced jalapenos on the salad bar.

I selected several of my favorite items from the salad bar and topped it with cucumber yogurt dressing. For my main course, I chose the balsamic rice, dal makhini, mixed vegetables, saag paneer and sweet and sour tofu. For dessert, I chose the khir. The dal makhini was savory while the mixed vegetables was quite spicy with a nice heat. The saag paneer is my favorite and the only item that wasn’t vegan. It is creamed spinach with cubes of farmer cheese. I know, but I like spinach. The sweet and sour tofu was tangy, slightly hot with sweet pepper slices, so it was a good combination of several flavors.

While I was eating, my waitress brought me a vegetable samosa and some chapatti. Chapatti is an Indian flat bread that is a little like a soft whole wheat tortilla. I’m not practiced enough to eat my food with a chapatti but its nutty flavor makes it an important part of the meal even if you eat it like a westerner. The khir is sweetened rice with milk, almond slivers and fruit. Very nice ending to a very satisfying meal.

If you are in The Heights during the lunch or dinner times, be sure to stop by Govinda’s. Enjoy a nice meal, walk around the beautiful temple grounds, and visit the temple and temple gift shop while you are there. You will be glad you did.

Govinda’s Vegetarian Cuisine, 1320 W 34th Street, Houston, TX 77018. govindas-vegetarian-cuisine.business.site.

January 2018

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global briefs City Greenery Boosts Public Health

Urban trees help reduce obesity and depression, improve productivity, boost educational outcomes and reduce incidences of asthma and heart disease for residents, yet according to The Nature Conservancy, American cities spend less than a third of 1 percent of municipal budgets on tree planting and maintenance. As a result, U.S. cities are losing 4 million trees per year.

Each summer, thousands of unnecessary deaths result from heat waves in urban areas. Studies have shown that trees are a cost-effective solution. Too often, the presence or absence of urban nature and its associated benefits is tied to a neighborhood’s income level, resulting in dramatic health inequities. In some American cities, life expectancies in different neighborhoods located just a few miles apart can differ by as much as a decade. Not all of this health disparity is connected to the tree cover, but researchers are increasingly finding that neighborhoods with fewer trees have worse health outcomes, so inequality in access to urban nature can lead to worse health inequities.

Cigarette Cutback Higher Prices Lower Use

Research from the Medical University of Vienna found in a 30-year study that increasing prices for tobacco products by 5 percent reduced tobacco use by 3.5 percent.

LilKar/Shutterstock.com

puhhha/Shutterstock.com

Urban Trees

Veggie Doctors

Cardiologists Urge Plant-Based Hospital Meals

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is advising hospitals in improving patient menus by adding healthy, plant-based options and removing processed meats, which have been linked to 60,000 cardiovascular deaths annually.

The ACC Heart-Healthy Food Recommendations for Hospitals states, “At least one plant-based main dish should be offered and promoted at every meal.” ACC also urges that processed meats such as bacon, sausage, ham, hot dogs and deli meats should not be offered at all. These guidelines extend to hospital cafeterias and onsite restaurants.

The American Medical Association has also passed a resolution that calls on hospitals to provide similarly healthy meals. Processed meats are now considered carcinogenic to humans, according to the World Health Organization. A 50-gram serving a day—one hot dog or two strips of bacon—increases colorectal cancer risk by 18 percent.

“Too many heart disease patients have had their recovery undermined by bacon and hot dogs on their hospital trays,” says Dr. Neal Barnard, president of the nonprofit Physicians Committee.

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Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Gods_Kings/Shutterstock.com

To read the white paper, visit Tinyurl.com/FundingTreesForHealth.

Plumbing Progress

Tim UR/Shutterstock.com

Peter Bernik/Shutterstock.com

monticello/Shutterstock.com

Recycled Plastics Put to Good Use

Australia’s Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training at Deakin University is practicing an affordable way to increase the availability of potable (drinkable) water in needy areas of the world. The project involves collecting plastic garbage from around the Pacific Islands and turning it into pellets, which are then extruded as 3-D printer filament to make replacement plumbing parts, often in short supply in those locations. That effort is called 3D WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene), and the children’s charity Plan International Australia will be the first recipient (Plan.org.au).

Wellness Works

Corporate Programs Boost Health and Bottom Line

Corporate wellness programs are linked to a 25 percent reduction in absenteeism and sick leave, 25 percent reduction in health costs and 32 percent reduction in workers compensation and disability costs, according to a 2016 meta-analysis of corporate wellness studies by Edelman Intelligence.

For details, visit Tinyurl.com/EdelemansAtWork.

Eco Pesticide

Safer Product Controls Citrus Pests

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California Department of Pest Regulation have approved CRS Plus, an aerosol pheromone biopesticide product that disrupts the mating cycle of Aonidiella aurantii, also known as California Red Scale (CRS). Pheromones do not kill or damage the target insects, and are species-specific, so pollinators and other beneficial insect species are not affected.

CRS attacks all aerial parts of citrus trees, including twigs, leaves, branches and fruit. Heavy infestations can cause reduced fruit quality, yellowing and dropping of leaves, dieback of twigs and limbs and even death of the tree.

We Care for More than Just Your Teeth….

Biological Dentristy

As a true Biological Dentist, Dr. Jones combines modern technology, safe protection protocols, advanced knowledge of biological dentistry and medicine, and a patient-centric approach to enhance wellness through dentistry.

Amalgams (silver fillings) are removed using safe protective protocols.

Zirconia white ceramic implants are offered to replace missing teeth when appropriate.

Our services include: • Safe protective protocols for Mercury Amalgam removal • Biocompatibility Testing • Advanced Diagnostics • Oral Cancer Screening and Detection • Z-Systems Zirkolith Dental Implants • Modern Skills and Techniques • Life-Long Patient Care • Over 30 Years Experience

“Studies have concluded a link between gum disease & heart health, diabtes, & pregnancies. However, many dentists are not trained in the long term effects of what dentistry does (or possibly could do) to the whole body. I educate my patients on the importance of how dentistry can play a role in their overall health. I put emphasis on a more natural or holistic approach to dentistry.”

Dr. Marilyn K. Jones DDS Marilyn K Jones DDS | (713) 785-7767

800 Bering Dr Suite 204 | Houston, TX 77057 | www.marilynkjonesdds.com January 2018

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Recreate Comfort

Secrets to Better Furniture

A new year can prompt us to refresh the look and feel of our home. Eco-minded individuals may wish to spruce up a treasured piece of furniture or find a replacement that’s light on environmental impact.

MConsider wood furniture made from sustainably harvested forests and tree

farms or reclaimed wood. Find explanations of Forest Stewardship Council certification requirements at US.FSC.org.

MChoose vintage and secondhand furniture to extend its life with a bonus of nostal-

gia. Avoid painted furniture from the early to mid-20th century, which may contain lead, or use a paint-testing kit.

MLook for furniture with organic substances such as natural wood finishes, naturally tanned leather or organic cotton.

Look for Greenguard product certification to ensure low toxicity (Greenguard.org).

Some businesses, like Upholstery on Broadway, in Arlington, Massachusetts, conduct money-saving classes for people that want to learn to repair or restore their own furniture. Owner Kevin Kennedy finds, “People bring in their own projects, often wing chairs and side chairs, along with stray pieces of materials. As long as they have ‘good bones’ [solid wood frames], new fabric can add many years.” For those afraid of making mistakes in cutting fabric, “We help them measure carefully first, and that relieves their anxiety.” A carpenter’s rule is to measure twice, cut once.

MGet creative. Treehugger.com cites Pentatonic, a furniture line made from 100 percent recycled materials, including glass, plastics and metals, for easy assembly without tools. Standardized components deliver efficient manufacturing and shipping; each part has an identification number with the manufacturer’s date and location, and the type of waste used in production.

MIn replacing furniture, make sure the old piece gets reused, as well. Sell it via CraigsList.org, eBay.com, local classifieds or a yard sale; donate through Freecycle.org or a local thrift store; or just give it away.

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Houston

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Visual3Dfocus/Shutterstock.com

eco tip

Geoffrey Gish, who died of alcoholism. I’m 32 years sober, so having “Trust in Spirit” as the first of the “12 Ways to Ignite Your Life” – with its double meaning – was perfect. And “trust” is first because I believe it’s just that important to turn to a greater something out there for help and for guidance. I trust in spirit through prayer and meditation.

I’m continuing this series of writings on my I9NITE YOUR LIFE art project that I started in January of 2017. Last year I expounded on the concepts and how they can help you ignite your life. This year, I will go deeper into why I chose each phrase and I will also suggest a site in Houston to visit that I love and that connects to the Way. I believe in not only understanding these concepts in your head and in your heart but also experiencing them first-

How Will You Trust in Spirit?

by Sarah Gish

I

was making bracelets for my I9NITE YOUR LIFE art project (www.Ignite YourOwnLife.com) with sober teens and one of them proudly handed me her creation that said “God” on it. I thanked her and then told her that wasn’t one of the “12 Ways to Ignite Your Life Daily,” which was what I was having the teens use. Those Ways are concepts which are the backbone of my art project and I had been madly writing, editing, and updating them for 10 years and was happy with them. I had phrases like “Always be grateful (thank)” and “Connect with love (love).” But that “God” bracelet got me thinking: why didn’t I have something about spirituality?

I gave the bracelet to my friend Victoria to carry her through chemo (she still wears it every single time she goes!) and I started brainstorming with friends for a phrase that had the idea of God but that wasn’t specifically religious. I want my project to be global (yes, I really do!) and I knew that keeping the word “God” was too limiting. I wanted something expansive.

“Trust in spirit” was the phrase I chose, and the word associated with it is “Trust.”

I was thrilled that two HUGE concepts, trust and spirit, could be found in such a

simple 3-word statement. Isn’t the English language amazing?!

Another thing that I liked about that phrase was “spirit.” Bill Wilson, the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, wrote to Carl Jung for advice about helping drunks, something Dr. Jung was famous for doing.

Jung wrote back a simple phrase: “Spiritus Contra Spiritum” – “Spirit over Spirits.”

The Holy Spirit is more powerful than the spirits of alcohol and that’s how he was curing people, by making the Spirit more important than spirits. I9NITE YOUR LIFE was created in honor of my brother,

hand. For “Trust in spirit (trust),” I suggest that you visit the Rothko Chapel (www.

RothkoChapel.org). “The eternal quest of humankind has been to reach out to something greater and wiser than our limited self,” wrote Dr. Larry Dossey, author of Prayer is Good Medicine. Praying and trusting will help you connect to spirit and you can practice plenty of both in the peace of the Chapel.

Sarah Gish is an igniter, a connector, an artist, a mother – and much more! See her work at www.GishCreative.com and contact her at sarah@gishcreative.com and 713-4921173. She produces a weekly blog highlighting unique cultural activities for adults and kids in Houston – GISH PICKS: CURATED CULTURE FOR KIDS & ADULTS (www.

GishPicks.com). Her I9NITE YOUR LIFE! art project (www.IgniteYourOwnLife.com) is a nonprofit organization and is anchored by a list of “12 Ways to Ignite Your Life Daily,” which are on the website. Sarah sells her IYL bracelets at the Unity of Houston bookstore and she also does private intuitive guidance sessions on Mondays at Body Mind & Soul; to schedule one, please call the store at 713993-0550. See ad on page 30.

January 2018

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5 second Studio/Shutterstock.com

conscious eating

EAT WHEAT AGAIN Eight Ways to Restore Gut Health

T

by John Douillard

he New York University Langone Medical Center recently reported that 74 percent of Americans experience some form of digestive distress, a quarter are obese and more than 100 million U.S. adults are pre-diabetic and don’t know it. While many blame such problems on eating wheat, some food scientists disagree, including those citing two major studies by Harvard researchers; following more than 100,000 people for 25 years, they concluded that those eating the most wheat compared to low-gluten folks had a 13 percent lower diabetes risk and no greater risk of heart disease.

While the standard American diet, which includes highly processed wheat, is likely responsible for many of these health concerns, plenty of science links a diet rich in whole grains, including whole wheat, to weight loss, better digestion and lower blood sugar. The Mediterranean Diet, replete with whole grains and wheat, is still

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Houston

revered as one of the healthiest-known diets. Centenarians that live in the famed “blue zones”, recognized for their longevity-enhancing environment and lifestyles, eat a non-processed, whole-food diet rich in whole grains and wheat.

Many Americans that are gluten-sensitive today digested wheat fine when they were young. At some point, our ability to digest foods that are a bit harder to digest, like wheat and dairy, became compromised. It’s possible to reboot.

Delete Processed Foods

The first step toward reestablishing digestive strength is avoiding all processed foods. A study in the journal Diabetes Care linked a processed food diet to a 141 percent increase in belly fat, high blood sugar and high cholesterol. It further showed that a diet of whole grains, including wheat, reduced the risk of these health concerns by 38 percent. www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Monitor these ingredients to achieve a healthier diet. n Avoid all added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Allow nothing more than six grams of naturally occurring sugar per serving. n Avoid fried foods and baked goods made with refined cooking oils used to preserve them like bread, muffins, cookies, energy bars, most packaged foods and chips. n Eat bread that’s only made of organic whole wheat, salt water and starter.

Restore Liver and Gallbladder Function

Highly processed vegetable oils are used as preservatives in most packaged foods, including bread. Processing these oils renders them indigestible. Linked to congestion of the liver and gallbladder, they disable liver bile so it can’t break down either good or bad fats, also making it insufficient to buffer stomach acids. Without adequate bile production to neutralize stomach acid, the stomach won’t produce the needed acid to digest proteins like gluten and the casein in dairy. This malady has effected a huge spike in gallbladder surgeries and epidemic levels of obesity, high blood sugar and food intolerances.

To boost bile flow, enjoy these foods daily: n Eat one red beet and one apple a day— either raw, cooked, juiced or blended. Add celery and make a bile-flow smoothie. n Consume one teaspoon of both coconut oil and high-quality olive oil per day. n Eat more artichokes, bitter roots and leafy greens. n Drink fennel and fenugreek tea with meals.

Strengthen Stomach Fire

Instead of taking digestive enzymes or a hydrochloric acid-based stomach acid pill, stimulate the stomach to make its own acid and the small intestine and pancreas to produce digestive enzymes. This is best done regularly with the following five spices: n Use ginger, cumin, coriander, cardamom and fennel.

Studies published in journals such as Molecular Nutrition & Food Research and the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry suggest that when these five spices are used together —as a supplement, in cooking or to flavor food—they act as a total upper digestive reset. These five-star spices: 4 Stimulate digestion 4 Increase bile flow, pancreatic and small intestine enzyme activity, and fat and sugar metabolism 4 Decrease H. pylori, an opportunistic acid-producing microbe, from adhering to the stomach 4 Decrease gas and bloating 4 Support optimal weight, microbiology health, growth of good gut bacteria and elimination 4 Act as powerful free-radical scavengers

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Following these simple steps of nutrition will set gluten sufferers on the right path to retraining the body to digest and enjoy wheat again.

John Douillard, a Boulder, CO, doctor of chiropractic and creator of the wellness website LifeSpa.com, is the former director of player development and nutrition advisor to the New Jersey Nets NBA team. He is author of the book Eat Wheat: A Scientific and Clinically-Proven Approach to Safely Bringing Wheat and Dairy Back into Your Diet.

Learn more at EatWheatBook.com.

January 2018

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ESB Professional/Shutterstock.com

DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

W

hether from natural disasters, divisive politics, unmanageable workloads or a smartphone culture that makes it tough to unplug, U.S. adults are feeling more strain now than they have at any other time in the past decade, according to the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Stress in America Survey. One in three say their stress has increased in the past year and one in five rate the level at eight or more on a scale of one to 10. About three in five, or 59 percent, say they believe this is “the lowest point in the nation’s history” and nearly two-thirds say concerns about our nation’s future (including its health care, economy and international relations) are key sources of their stress.

“We’re seeing significant stress transcending party lines,” notes Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D., the association’s CEO.

All that stress is having a powerful impact on health, with as many as 80 percent of visits to primary care physicians

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by Lisa Marshall

Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one. ~Hans Selye characterized as stress-related, according to the American Medical Association.

Workplace stress accounts for 120,000 deaths a year—more than influenza, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease combined—according to a 2015 Stanford University study.

Yet, empowering news has emerged amid this epidemic of anxiety-related illness. Research shows that by eating right, exercising and changing our mindset about stress itself, we can buffer our bodies from many health hazards.

“Unfortunately, you can’t always avoid the things that stress you out. But you can control how you respond to stress before it takes over your life,” says Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D., a Mill Valley, California, www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

psychologist and author of the recent book The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity.

Our Brain on Stress

Whether it’s an urgent email from the boss or a rude motorist driving unsafely, tense situations elicit a physiological response remarkably similar to what might occur if we were chased by a lion.

Deep inside an almond-shaped region of the brain called the amygdala, an alarm goes off, signaling the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that boost heart rate, usher extra blood to muscles, hasten breathing and spike blood sugar to provide more fuel for the brain to react.

Evolutionarily, this response was key to early human survival, providing the energy boost needed to flee predators. Even today, it has its upside, says Greenberg. “In the short term, stress can be exciting and even beneficial, revving you up so you can put your

passion and energy into something.”

But chronic excess can lead to high blood pressure and blood sugar, inflammation, cognitive problems and a hair-trigger response to stress, in which our body overreacts even to mild annoyances. It can also, research suggests, accelerate aging by eroding the protective caps on our chromosomes, called telomeres.

“Think of the stress response as an elastic band,” says Dr. Mithu Storoni, a Hong Kong physician and author of the new book Stress Proof: The Scientific Solution to Protect Your Brain and Body — and Be More Resilient Every Day. “If you pull it and it snaps back immediately, that’s fine. But if you pull it too intensely or too frequently, it doesn’t snap back, and there are lots of downstream consequences.”

Stress-Proofing Our Body

Eating right can better protect our bodies, says New York City Registered Dietitian Malina Malkani. She recommends loading up on nutrient-dense, high-fiber foods like leafy greens, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds during stressful times, because they can slow our rate of digestion and minimize unhealthy dips and spikes in blood sugar.

Beneficial, bacteria-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi are other foundational foods for stressresilience, says Storoni, because they can dampen bodily inflammation that arises from chronic tension. They can also replenish bacterial strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria which, according to studies of college students, tend to decrease when we feel pushed beyond our limits to handle what’s coming at us.

One 2016 study of 171 volunteers, published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, found that those that ate yogurt containing lactobacillus plantarum daily for two months had fewer markers of stress in their blood. Another study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2007 found that when 132 adults drank a probiotic-infused milk drink daily for three weeks and were then subjected to an anxiety-prone situation, their brains reacted more calmly than those of a control group.

“Probably the most important thing

Seven Ways to Banish Stress

by Lisa Marshall

W

e can take charge and do even more things to keep stress at bay in the first place, says Christine Carter, Ph.D., a University of California, Berkeley, sociologist and author of The Sweet Spot: How to Accomplish More by Doing Less. “I’m all about prevention,” she says. “There are many ways to set up your life to be less stressful.”

1

Multitask less, monotask more:

“The brain was not evolved to multitask and it can be stressful when we try to do so,” says Carter, referencing a Stanford University study. “At the end of the day, we end up feeling fried.” She recommends setting up a “fortress against interruption” for an hour or two each day when we feel most alert. Put the phone on mute, don noisecanceling headphones and ask coworkers or family members to not interrupt your focus on an important priority.

2

Don’t be a chronic media checker: Eighty-six percent of

Americans say they constantly or often check their email, texts or social media accounts, according to the latest Stress in America Survey. Half of U.S. workers say they respond to every email within a half-hour. Carter recommends instead scheduling a block of time at the beginning and end of each day for the task.

During weekends and evenings, disable email and social media notifications.

Research shows the more often we check, the more stressed we are. One recent study of British office workers found that checking email almost immediately boosts heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels, while refraining causes the stress response to subside.

3

Limit choices: Making decisions can

be stressful, and we are all faced with an increasing number of them every day.

To limit a personal decision-making load, get boring. Devise a meal plan that doesn’t vary from week to week (unless it’s a happy creative outlet). Stock the wardrobe with favorite styles of shirts and shoes in different

colors. Select and stick with one brand of natural toothpaste or granola.

4

Don’t overthink things: Rumi-

nating on past events and relationship problems can be a great source of stress in the present moment. If there’s nothing that can be done about it, stop thinking about it. Literally visualize a stop sign when the thought bubbles up.

5

Daydream: Idle times, like standing

in line, sitting in traffic or showering can allow our brain to rest and recover from hassles. Embrace such opportunities and don’t clutter them up with technology; leave the phone and radio off.

6

Meditate: Invest 10 minutes daily to

sit still, focus on breathing, visualize an image or stare at an object and try to keep thoughts from drifting. Brain imaging studies published in the Brain Research Bulletin show that “Through [such] meditation, it’s possible to rewire your brain to create a new, stronger circuit that keeps your emotional reactivity under control,” says Dr. Mithu Storoni, who has published a book on the topic.

7

Heighten spirituality: Whether

it’s regularly attending religious services, yoga meditation sessions or quiet walks in the woods, a spiritual practice can be a powerfully effective means of coping with stress and mitigating its health impacts. Duke University research shows that people regularly engaged in a spiritual practice are more likely to survive heart surgery, recover better from stroke, have shorter hospital stays and become depressed and stressed less often.

“Spirituality connects you to the broader world, which in turn enables you to stop trying to control things all by yourself,” explains Dr. Roberta Lee, an integrative physician, in her book The SuperStress Solution. “When you feel part of a greater whole, it’s easy to understand that you aren’t responsible for everything that happens in life.”

January 2018

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pathdoc/Shutterstock.com

People with a stress-hardy mindset may temper stress as an “excite-and-delight” challenge in adventurous situations. Others “tend-and-befriend”, reaching out to help and comfort in times of tragedy. Studies show that when participants are told, “You’re the kind of person whose performance improves under pressure,” it does— by as much as one-third. ~Harvard Medical School Healthbeat you can do to make your body stressresilient is to maintain a healthy ecosystem of bacteria in your gut,” advises Malkani, who recommends exchanging dessert for low-sugar yogurt every day and taking probiotic supplements as well as steering clear of sweetened beverages and refined carbohydrates. The spice turmeric is also a good stress-buster due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help normalize blood sugar, Storoni notes.

Despite our natural craving for comfort food, it’s a good idea to go easy on saturated fats in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic situation, because stress slows fat metabolism. In one recent study, Ohio State University researchers asked 58 women about their previous day’s stressors, and then fed them the fat-loaded equivalent of a

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double cheeseburger and fries; the stressedout women burned 104 fewer calories.

“If a woman had a stressful day at work every day and ate a meal like this, she could easily gain seven to 11 pounds in a year,” says study author Jan Kiecolt-Glaser, a professor of psychiatry and psychology and director of the university’s Institute for Behavioral Medicine.

Exercise, too, can help combat stress-related illness. But Storoni attests that not all exercise is created equal. One recent study in the Journal of Physiology found that in animals daily moderate exercise (the equivalent of a light jog) can boost levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a critical brain protein diminished by stress and sleep deprivation, significantly more than weight train-

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

ing or intense exercise. On the flip side, excess strenuous exercise (laps around the track or an intense gym workout) can boost inflammation, whither brain cells, and aggravate the physical impacts of stress, says Storoni.

“If you want to exercise to relieve the stress you just experienced, keep it at low intensity,” counsels Storoni. If possible, work out in the morning, as it can boost melatonin levels at night, helping you get to sleep faster, she notes.

Stress-Proofing Our Mindset While diet and exercise can buffer our body from the impacts of chronic stress, a shift in mindset can keep it from becoming chronic in the first place, says Greenberg.“The goal is not to eliminate stress, but to put it in its

place—to use its energizing and motivating aspects to take care of what needs to be done, and then relax,” and stop paying attention to it. This, she says, requires being mindful of what’s happening in the present moment.

“When you feel your heart racing at the sight of another urgent demand at home or work, stop what you are doing, take a deep breath and tune into what’s happening in your body,” advises Greenberg.

She notes that when the highly reactive amygdala “hijacks the brain”, we often say and do things in the heat of the moment that we later regret. Waiting just a moment (like counting to 10) allows the more rational part of our brain (the prefrontal cortex) to kick in. “It allows you to go from panic to, ‘I’ve got this.’”

Greenberg observes that we often feel most stressed when we feel out of control.

When faced with a daunting task, it may help to make a list of the things we have control over and a list of the things we can’t control—then make a plan to act on the manageable one and let the others go.

“Mindfulness is also about keeping our self-judging and ruminating mind at bay, which may keep repeating, ‘I’m not doing enough,’” she says. “Realize that you do not have to listen to every thought that comes into your head. Ask yourself, ‘What is the most important thing for me to focus on right now?’”

Greenberg also says it’s important to aim to broaden and brighten our view in tough times, explaining, “Feeling stress biases your brain to think in terms of avoiding threat and loss, rather than what you can gain or learn from the situation.” Start by jotting down three ways this challenging situation may be beneficial in the long run; also make a list of things and people we are grateful for, she suggests.

“Practicing gratitude helps you realize that you have a choice about what to focus your attention on and you don’t have to let stressors take all the joy out of life,” according to Greenberg. As an added bonus, “You’re less likely to take your stress out on loved ones when you think about what they mean to you and how they have helped you,” she says.

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

What is Stress Weight Loss

How Can You Achieve It?

by Christina De Jesus, Wellness Therapist

A

ny source of stress placed upon the body, whether physical or emotional, triggers the production of the hormone cortisol, which is often referred to as “the stress hormone.”

Some experts estimate that a whopping 70-90% of doctors’ office visits are re-

lated, either directly or indirectly, to conditions caused by stress. I believe that stress is a major problem in today’s modern world, thanks to social media, long working hours, lack of physical activity, dietary factors and toxins in our environment, which leads to a build-up of toxic waste in our lymphatic

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system that needs to be removed to maintain a healthy weight. Our Stress Weight Loss Program targets the Lymphatic System through Lymphatic Drainage Therapy that will eliminate 2-3 inches of toxic fluid loss per session in some cases.

The problem is that when we are under constant stress, our cortisol level remains elevated and studies have shown that chronic high cortisol production is tied to ailments including anxiety, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances, fertility problems, and, of course, weight gain.

1

Stress Makes it Harder to Get Good Sleep

Cortisol is a hormone related to alertness, so one of its most important jobs is to help keep us motivated and awake. Cortisol levels are typically highest in the morning, decreasing throughout the day, and then dropping to their lowest at night, around the time we should be headed to bed.

When levels of cortisol, and other stress hormones like adrenaline, are abnormally elevated throughout the day, it can be difficult to fall asleep or you may wake up very early (about 3 a.m.) This lack of sleep can directly impact weight gain and bloating, our Stress Weight Loss Program gives

you several tools to help give you a solid night’s sleep, which in turn helps maintain a healthy weight.

2

Stress Increases Cravings

You may notice the more hectic and overwhelming your lifestyle is, the harder it is to stick to a healthy diet plan. This is especially the case when it comes to stress sneaking in on a daily basis, your first impulse is to reach for the comfort foods to sooth away pain or mental discomfort.

Our Stress Weight Loss Programs gives you a healthy eating plan that’s simple to stick with and gives you food suggestions that eliminates bloating, improves skin conditions and overall a stable healthy weight.

3

Stress Contributes to Digestive Disorders

Stress is one of the leading causes of digestive complaints and disorders, including constipation and abdominal bloating. That’s because stress can increase inflammation, which can damage tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, thus interfering with proper nutrient absorption. All of these problems can make it tough to continue eating a variety of high-fiber, whole foods, which are critical for healthy weight loss.

4

Stress Makes it Difficult to Stay Active

While it’s possible to lose some weight simply by eating a healthier diet, staying active is essential for weight maintenance.

Because stress increases inflammation and weakens the immune system, it can also contribute to symptoms that interfere with sustaining an active lifestyle, like lack of energy, slowed workout recovery and the development of pain, soreness stiff muscles and joints due to the lymphatic system not being cleared on a regular basis.

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HEALTHY

LIVING

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2018 Natural Living

Directory

Houston-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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2018 Natural Living Directory

BOOKS THE POWER OF AWAKE

by Thich Dieu Thien

Known internationally as a very inspiring teacher full of wisdom, clarity, and compassion, Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien easily engages people of all ages, cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and helps them to discover more about who they really are, transform all stress and conflict in daily life, and return to the Awake already within each person. Based on her own personal experience, she reminds readers that our goal is not just to recognize ego but to fully realize the source and nature of it, break the system of ego, and live truly happy and free in any situation.

In Awake, ego doesn’t exist; in ego, Awake cannot appear.”You are not the voice in your head, or the emotions, or the stress... You are what can recognize the voice, the emotions, and the stress. You are Awake.” -- Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien. Available on Amazon. Com

YOGAMASS: EMBODYING CHRIST CONSCIOUSNESS

by Gena Davis

BIOENERGETICS EVERLASTING HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC In the River Oaks Tower 3730 Kirby Drive, Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098 713-834-1113 everlastinghealthwellness.com

Suffering from chronic issues or want to improve your energy and performance on all levels, we offer several revolutionary, holistic methods that can help. We use the NES Provision Advanced Software, to examine your body-field to identify bio-energetic and bio-informational distortions. The MiHealth device may then be used to address energy blockages and alleviates symptoms immediately. We have nutritional screening and counseling, and offer quality supplements and NES Infoceuticals to meet your needs. We also offer Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Check this month’s calendar listings for our grief group workshops and call today to schedule a consultation.

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BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY MARILYN K. JONES, DDS

Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 712-785-7767 marilynkjonesdds.com

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences.

Setting the stage for the body to heal itself includes removing infection and toxins, correcting structure, and providing the best dental materials for you which will promote an outstanding environment for your overall health. Dentistry is my true love and as a true Biological Dentist, I combine modern technology, safe protection protocols, advanced knowledge of biological dentistry and medicine, and a patient-centric approach to enhance the wellness of all my patients. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment.

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YogaMass: Embodying Christ Consciousness is an inspirational book that builds a bridge for Christians who practice yoga to authentically embody their spirituality and faith. The author, an ordained Episcopal priest and certified yoga educator, weaves together yogic principles and practices and spiritual practices from different traditions with her own discovery that yoga’s ancient truths are complementary with Christian beliefs—taking one deeper into the spiritual life in ways that people of diverse faiths can embrace. On and off the yoga mat, this book points the way to discovering a whole self—body, mind, soul, and spirit—spiritual experience and connecting with God through an awakened open mind and heart.

The book outlines The Reverend Gena Davis’ spiritual journey to create an exciting and powerful new practice of spiritual ritual and celebration called YogaMass®, an experience that integrates yoga, breath work, meditation, and Holy Communion and leads to embodying Christ Consciousness and awakening the soul. YogaMass® is held monthly in Houston. See YogaMass.com for more information and upcoming events.

YogaMass: Embodying Christ Consciousness can be purchased at YogaMass® events, Brazos Bookstore on Bissonnet, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Balboa Press.

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14 years in the business of helping business owners get out of their own way to create measurable, predictable, sustainable growth. Tina Marie’s system is taught through an easy 6 month program that immerses entrepreneurs in all they need to produce 10X growth in customers, revenue and brand visibility. The depth of her knowledge includes mindset coaching, marketing, prospecting, sales, finance, business development, product delivery and staffing. She has personally created over 10M in revenue for her own businesses and for her clients. We also teach how to be a BitCoin based business for those interested in the crypto-currency market.

If you are looking for a strong, soul centered business coach who values your work life balance, call her for a Complimentary Consultation or go online to TinaMarie.com today. Fill out your own Business Growth Potential Assessment to see how much revenue you are leaving on the table and how many people need your services. Tina Marie holds 3 degrees, 4 certifications and a license in EpiPerformance.

CENTERS METAPHYSICAL MATRIXCENTERPOINT BODY MIND & SPIRIT 2727 Fondren Rd. Suite 5M Houston, TX 77063 713-932-7224 metaphysicalmatrix.org

Metaphysical Matrix is a space for people to come together to grow, reflect, share and transform. Our Key Offerings are: Centerpoint Holistic Healing Expo & Psychic Fair, every Sunday Connect with alternative healing modalities and get new insights toward your life, career and relationships. Holistic Integrative Clinics on 2nd and 3rd Sundays. We also host a variety of classes and workshops. Visit our website for more information, and specific times and dates.

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TINA MARIE ST.CYR CERTIFIED BUSINESS & LIFE COACH STRATEGIC INTERVENTIONIST

UNDERSTANDING NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements

by Linda Sechrist

Savvy consumers seeking products that might help them achieve and maintain good health may be noticing two new categories: medical food and nutraceuticals.

M

edicalized terminology is now being used to describe certain products we may already have been buying from brand-name dietary supplement companies and retailers, and they have a higher price tag. One common example: powdered protein meal-replacement shakes that can cost up to $16 more than a retail store brand, as nutraceutical and medical food purveyors want to differentiate their products as having clinical research and development behind them. This raises the bar on the quality of contents and assures consumers of third-party testing for proof of ingredients.

Although both are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, there is no legal distinction between dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, yet each serves different purposes. Dietary supplements, comprising vitamins, minerals and/ or herbs and botanicals, are intended to enhance wellness among healthy adults.

Nutraceuticals encompass nutrients, foods or parts of foods used as medicine to provide health benefits beyond nutrition and combat chronic disease. Some of the most popular formulations involve botanicals like ginseng, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort and echinacea.

“Medical foods, formulated for dietary management of a specific medical condition for which nutritional needs are unmet by a normal diet, are regulated under the Orphan Drug Act of 1983,” explains Bill Shaddle, senior director of medical education at Metagenics, Inc. “Our nutraceuticals and medical foods are supported by verifiable science that provides solid evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits produced by ingredients in our products.”

The word nutraceutical, blending nutrition and pharmaceutics, was coined in 1989

by Stephen L. DeFelice, the founder and chairman of the nonprofit Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, in Mountainside, New Jersey, which promotes clinical research and development of dietary supplements and January 2018

23

foods specifically for their health benefits.

Reputable companies that manufacture private-label nutraceuticals, such as Metagenics and Xymogen, among others, research and develop products for functional nutrition and quality. While such products are solely distributed through partnerships with healthcare professionals such as medical doctors, nutritionists and pharmacists, some of the evidence-based, professional-grade formulas are available through online physician websites.

Metagenics and Xymogen collaborate with institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, Bastyr University and National College of Natural Medicine in conducting clinical research that demonstrates how their formulas impact healthy aging, cognitive function and overall health.

Federal Regulations Medical foods and nutraceuticals, orally administered dietary products formulated to support the management of conditions such as compromised gut function, age-related muscle loss, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are subject to standard food and safety labeling requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Although they may be used under medical supervision, patients don’t need a prescription. Many healthcare practitioners, including dietitians, currently recommend them under a physician’s direction.

Unlike pharmaceuticals, which are accountable to the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, patent-protected and supported by expensive testing documentation, nutraceuticals are not. However, many manufacturers

do choose to undergo costly testing. Like all dietary supplements, the majority of which do not undergo third-party testing, they are regulated by DSHEA, which defines and regulates labeling and claims of benefits related to classic nutrient-deficiency diseases.

Private Quality Control Xymogen is strictly a physician’s line of nutraceuticals, explains Cheryl Burdette, a doctor of naturopathy and director of clinical research and outreach for the company.

“In our manufacturing process, to avoid contamination and validate ingredients, every batch is third-party assayed by an independent laboratory, whereas some companies only do this for every fifth or 20th lot.

Xymogen’s validation extends to packaging and controlling the level of humidity because it affects how ingredients oxidize,” says Burdette.

Gary Kracoff, a registered pharmacist and naturopathic doctor at Johnson Compounding & Wellness, in Waltham, Massachusetts, researches the nutraceuticals that he carries and recommends for his clients.

“I like professional-grade nutraceuticals because their formulas are researched and science-based. They are excellent products for specific purposes. Individuals that take the medical foods come to appreciate their disease-modifying therapeutic results.

While pricier, they include healthier sources of carbohydrates and fats, as well as natural, rather than synthetic nutrients to provide what the body needs to return to a state of balance,” says Kracoff.

CHIROPRACTIC DR. JACKIE ST.CYR, D.C. INNATE CHIROPRACTIC HEALING ARTS CENTER 230 Westcott St. Suite 220 Houston, Tx 77007 (713) 521-2104 n8chiro.com

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Dr. Jackie’s gentle NeuroStructural approach to health and healing incorporates “fullspine, wholeperson” attention and is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced forms of chiropractic care sought after by world leaders, celebrities and beautiful people just like you. Dr. Jackie has received the highest level training in Network Care available. Our center offers regular classes, community events and complimentary consults.

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THREDZ offers a wide selection of hand woven unstitched fabrics, ready to wear clothing for both men and women as well as formal wear. They provide simple, but timelessly cut pieces that have set the bar high as a prestigious fashion label in Pakistan and now world-wide. Whether you need a brand-new outfit, or an entire wardrobe, their in-house stylists are more than happy to provide you with assistance to make you look your very best. Visit our website or come by our store, today and wrap yourself in style!

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

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Five Ways to Manifest Our Desires

by J. Marie Novak

A

ccording to a Pew Forum study, nearly 80 percent of Americans believe in miracles. When we think we can’t handle burdensome difficulties on our own, we often seek help from a higher power, pleading: Cure me or my loved one of this illness. Aid me in providing for myself and my family. Bring me someone to love. Help me resolve this intensely painful situation. Protect loved ones from the harm they’re subjecting themselves to.

If we want miracles to unfold in our lives, we must actively participate in their manifestation. Here are five ways to manifest more miracles in our lives.

1

Be Grateful for Everything

Gratitude deserves its positive buzz.

When we’re grateful, our energy changes and our light shines. Our perspective shifts from scarcity to abundance. We bring forth divine blessings by being tuned into the giving nature of the creator of all. When we live in a state of gratitude, good people, opportunities and blessings arrive.

2

Stop Using Excuses to Do Nothing

When we take a positive step in our lives—it can be anything—a way forward will often appear that may be unrelated to the blessing we receive. For example, clearing out clutter may clarify a career move.

Taking a course to build a new skill may introduce us to a new friend. In beginning a new exercise routine, we may discover self-confidence in other areas of life.

3

Step Beyond Routine

Step out of routines, broaden horizons and bust through comfort zones. Bumps and bruises may occur, but bravery is rewarded. Miracles are not beyond our grasp, but we may need to extend our reach in ways we’ve never done before.

4

Help Others Receive the Miracles They Pray For

Experience the bliss of being a giver. Share what others need. Sponsor a child’s education.

Give unused belongings to people that desperately need them. Offer words of encouragement. It all matters more than we realize.

5

Trust Intuition

When we listen to our intellect instead of our inner heart-and-soul guidance system, we get turned around and off course. We all have an inner knowing that can help us get where we want to go. Divine wisdom always trumps the human mind. When we tune into it and trust what it’s telling us, we invite miracles into our lives.

We all have the power to participate in creating miracles for ourselves and others by bringing to fruition what did not seem remotely possible. It’s easy to start by practicing these five miracle-creating strategies.

J. Marie Novak is an author, life transformation mentor and founder of the Believe and Create online community. Learn how to believe in and create the life you were born to live at BelieveAndCreate.com.

January 2018

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METAPHYSICAL SHOPS PIXIE’S INTENT 2727 Fondren, Suite 5B Houston, TX 77063 Pixiesintent.com

Pixie’s Intent is a New Age shop with an eclectic mix of handmade products featuring a wide variety of handmade items, incense, stones, oils, herbs and candles. The shop also features daily readers, biweekly fairs and a wide variety of classes from yoga to poetry night. The shop is a multi-path retail facility that is accepting of all beliefs, traditions and rituals. They provide tools, resources, and a community for all walks of life and try to have a little something for everybody, so come on in and check them out!

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188

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They feature both premium Zeise lenses cut in house and generic lenses starting at $99 along with a wide selection of the latest frames. Alex and his staff also do eyeglass repair and offer lifetime adjustments for their customers. Experience their friendly, professional one on one service the next time you need new eyeglasses or need your eyeglasses repaired. Factory Eyeglass Outlet accepts most insurance plans.

Enlightened Spiritual Solutions Joelle Miller 2727 Fondren 5M Houston, TX 77063 713-782-8087 Enlightenedspiritualsolutions.com

Joelle offers private one-on-one consultations by phone, in person by appointment and is a regular at the weekly fairs at Centerpoint Body Mind & Spirit. She is available to read for special events such as private, non-profit and corporate parties, conferences, and conventions throughout the year. Joelle has established, repeat clientele throughout the United States as well as abroad. She has a unique style with a high degree of accuracy. In addition, Joelle also offers in-absentia Reiki for you or your pet. Visit her website for more information or to schedule a consolation.

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Copper

Natural device stops a cold before it starts

New research: Copper stops colds if used early.

N

ew research shows you can stop a cold in its tracks if you take one simple step with a new device when you first feel a cold coming on.

Colds start when cold viruses get in your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you don’t stop them early, they spread in your airways and cause misery.

But scientists have found a quick way to stop a virus. Touch it with copper. Researchers at labs and universities worldwide agree — copper is “antimicrobial.” It kills microbes, such as viruses and bacteria, just by touch.

Four thousand years ago ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. Now we know why it worked so well.

Researchers say a tiny electric charge in microbe cells gets short-circuited by the high conductance of copper. This destroys the cell in seconds.

Tests by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show germs die fast on copper. So some hospitals switched to copper touch surfaces, like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When he felt a cold coming on he fashioned a smooth copper probe and rubbed it gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold went away completely.” It worked

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 nighttime stuffiness if they use it just before bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years.”

Users also report success in stopping cold sores when used at the first sign of a tingle in the lip. One woman said, “I tried every product on the market over 20 years. Some helped a little, but this stopped it from happening in the first place.”

The handle is sculptured to fit the hand and finely textured to improve contact. Tests show it kills harmful microbes on the fingers to help prevent the spread of illness.

again every time he felt a cold coming on. He reports he has never had a cold since.

He asked relatives and friends to try it. They said it worked for them, too. So he patented CopperZap™ and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it and given feedback. Nearly 100 percent said the copper stops their colds if used within 3 hours of the first sign.

Even up to 2 days after the first sign, if they still get the cold it is milder and they feel better.

Users wrote things like, “It stopped my cold right away,” and “Is it supposed to work that fast?”

Pat McAllister, age 70, received one as a gift and called it “one of the best presents ever. This little jewel really works.”

Sinus trouble, stuffiness, cold sores.

People often use CopperZap Copper may even help stop flu if for prevention, before cold signs apused early and for several days. In a pear. Karen Gauci, who flies often for her job, used to get colds after crowded lab test, scientists placed 25 million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. No viruses flights. Though skeptical, she tried it were found alive soon after. several times a day on travel days for The EPA says the natural color 2 months. “Sixteen flights and not a change of copper does not reduce its sniffle!” she exclaimed. ability to kill germs.

Businesswoman Rosaleen says CopperZap is made in the U.S. of when people are sick around her she pure copper. It carries a 90-day full uses CopperZap morning and night. money back guarantee and is available “It saved me last holidays,” she said. for $49.95 at CopperZap.com or toll“The kids had colds going around and free 1-888-411-6114. around, but not me.”

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MONEY ESTEEM

the BIGGEST THREAT to our dreams

by Tina Marie St.Cyr

O

ur internal money conversation can empower or ruin our lives.

Of all the resources we have in our lives, money can be the fuel for our dreams coming true or the fire, when we are unsure about it, to devastate us. We are honestly not raised with ways to openly speak of money, earn it, honor it, grow it and respect it.

Ever feel like money is that thing you are supposed to naturally know everything about but never talk about it? Like there was some instruction book that maybe others got to read yet it did not make it to your house when you were growing up?

Our hidden beliefs about money, our habits, reactivity, and fears become the basis of our internal money conversation, what I call our Money Esteem. Money, like it or not, does make our world-go-round.

I truly believe Universal Intelligence uses money to keep humans in relationship, growing and interacting. After all, have you ever found a way to make money that does not involve another human?

In the past 24 hours I have worked with 3 business owners who, in our assess-

ment of their business and processes all tested off the charts positive on having poor money esteem.

What is money esteem?

Money Esteem is the respect of money.

The ability to openly speak about it, earn

it, understand it, use it, grow it and feel absolutely worthy of it.

With these three business owners, two female and one male, the unconscious agreements they have made with money have undoubtedly kept them near broke, living month to month and stressed or without a safety net or measurable budget, let alone visions of a long vacation, retirement accounts or ways to give to others in abundant amounts.

Look at your plans for 2018… if they involve humans, somewhere they will also involve money. Do you wonder what your money esteem would be? Have you ever wondered how much more you could serve, help, and contribute to others if you have more money esteem?

What is your Money Esteem?

Do you have hesitation when talking about how much your services or products cost?

Do you ‘make a deal’ and lower your prices to meet a client where they are? Is your mind ready for being rich or is it sabotaging your efforts? When I help my clients shift this inner blockage, they usually double, if not triple their business in a matter of months.

■ How esteemed are you around money?

■ Are you asking for your true value or are you underpriced?

Live with resilience and creativity, not just managing anxiety and burnout.

Live in the unpredictability of life, with confidence.

Coaching•Consulting Executives•Teams•Individuals Cherie Ray, MLA Cherieray.com

832.545.8488 Trueyoucreativity.com

January 2018

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Listen • Share • Learn

“People of Earth”

Every Thursday at 9:00pm Join us every Thursday as we Provide Native American and non-Native people with timely news and information about culture, news & realities

This Radio Program is hosted by Jacquelyn Battise

90.1 KPFT is Houston’s Community Radio Station

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www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

■

■

■

■

When asked “What do you charge?” do you feel angst inside or pride?

Are you absolutely 100% over-the-top confident in your services, quality and results you create for your clients?

Would they RAVE about your services and products?

Would they RAVE about you?

Can you (yourself, not another person in your firm) sell your services and products on a sales call with a cold prospect easily?

When someone ducks and dives and does not pay, do you call them and discuss payment options or press to get your payment?

Increasing Your Money Esteem - An Exercise This is an easy exercise to increase your money esteem. Look at your business, or your career. What do you typically charge or get paid? Imagine yourself in front of a new client prospect or a new employer.

Look into the mirror at your ‘imagined prospect/employer’ and answer the question: “How much would it cost to work with you?” If your fee is $50, answer in the mirror, “$5,000”. If your salary is $50,000, answer “$5,000,000” … feel the up leveling of your internal money esteem. It will feel odd at first, yet, with practice, your nervous system will regulate to a bigger number.

Once we get comfortable with 100x’ing our rates… claiming our true value and stating our true fee becomes easy.

It’s been proven the primary difference between a wealthy, successful business person and one who struggles is their mindset. Transform your Money Esteem and transform your life!

If you are ready to up-level your 10X income, transform your money esteem and learn which of the main money saboteurs are holding you and your business back, reach out to Tina Marie St.Cyr, a degreed professional Personal and Business Coach dedicated to helping her clients serve others through amazing abundance and soul shifting transformation. Tina Marie’s full bio is on her website. Complimentary consultations available Wednesdays after 2 pm. This is the year to 10X your life! www.TinaMarie. com, 888-721-4204. See ad on page 34.

green living

Kick the Plastic Habit Choose Earth-Friendly Alternatives

Mohamed Abdulraheem/Shutterstock.com

by Avery Mack

G

rocery bags, bottles, cups and straws comprise much of the 9.1 billion tons of plastic manufactured worldwide in the past 65 years. Once discarded, 79 percent resides in landfills and litters the environment, with more created daily.

Annually, the equivalent of five grocery bags of trash for every foot of coastline worldwide enters the oceans, killing 100,000 marine animals. A 2016 World Economic Forum report says that by 2050, the world’s seas could contain more plastic than fish.

At the 2017 Our Ocean Conference, the Ocean Conservancy and its partners announced a $150 million preventive plan. “This is a major breakthrough for trash-free seas,” says Susan Ruffo, the conservancy’s managing director of international initiatives. “Our research found improved waste management in Southeast Asian countries [Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and China] can halve plastic going in the ocean by 2025.”

When the United Nations launched the Clean Seas campaign in 2017, Indonesia pledged $1 billion to reduce plastic waste by 70 percent within eight years through education, taxes on plastic bags and investing in alternative products. Increased awareness is crucial to buy and discard less, create alternatives and recycle more to support the planet’s overall health.

#6, Polystyrene, in Styrofoam, plastic utensils and disposable or carryout containers, is toxic to our brain and nervous system; ask what restaurants use.

#7, Polycarbonate, found in the lining of canned foods, sports drinks, juice drinks, ketchup bottles and clear sippy cups, contains bisphenol A (BPA), a proven endocrine disruptor.

Small Changes Make a Difference Recycling weakens plastic grocery bags, necessitating double-bagging to avoid spills. Average families annually accumulate about 1,500 plastic bags, with 99 percent ending in landfills, as litter or stuffed in the pantry, according to the Center for Biological Diversity. Worldwide, many countries ban or tax bags.

“Annually, 50 billion water bottles are sold globally, including 30 billion in the U.S. That’s 1,500 individual water bottles thrown away per second,” says Deanna Latson, co-founder of ARIIX, which makes water purification systems, in Bountiful, Utah. “One filter can purify the equivalent of thousands of them a year.” The U.S. annual bottle recycling rate is 23 percent.

Beth Terry, of Oakland, California, author of Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too, offers 100

Expanding Footprint

Lacking space, technology and equipment to transform waste into reusable materials, U.S. municipalities typically ship it to a sorter for processing elsewhere; often to China, where new regulations restrict what’s accepted, leaving trash haulers scrambling. Although recyclable, these are the worst plastics:

#3, Polyvinyl chloride, used in plastic wrap, toys, squeeze bottles and packaging for peanut butter, contains lead and phthalate esters (chemical compounds) that affect development of testosterone, according to a study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

January 2018

31

Lin Weiss MH, MHT, CYT Holistic Practitioner Energy Healer Life Coach Yoga Therapist

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tips at MyPlasticFreeLife.com, including this planet-saving advice: 4 Opt for bar soap instead of liquid, soap nuts in lieu of plastic-packaged powders, and baking soda and lemon or vinegar rather than sprays to clean.

4 Ask the butcher to wrap meat in paper, forgoing trays and plastic wrap.

4 Buy fruit and vegetables at farmers’ markets; return containers for reuse.

4 Turn out-of-fashion garments into cleaning rags; skip plastic scrubbers.

4 Carry reusable water bottles and cloth shopping bags.

4 Avoid over-packaged frozen foods.

4 Use glass jars for leftovers and storage.

4 Buy kitty litter packaged in paper.

4 Choose stainless steel pet food and water bowls.

As a substitute, glass is endlessly recyclable, but facilities are few. Find resource centers at gpi.org/glass-resource-locator.

“Plastic innovations stop at invention and don’t follow through to end-oflife solutions,” says Tom Szaky, CEO and founder of TerraCycle, in Trenton, New Jersey. It accepts both basic and difficultto-recycle waste including pens, laboratory waste, cigarette butts, art supplies, small auto parts, bathroom cleaning waste, toys, candy wrappers and coffee pods (TerraCycle.com).

Contact Influencers

Tell companies when products have excessive or harmful packaging. In Delray Beach, Florida, Saltwater Brewery created biodegradable, safely edible wheat and barley six-pack rings to replace traditional plastic rings that are hazardous to wildlife.

Restaurants routinely provide fresh plastic straws with refills. BYOS (bring your own straw), whether plastic, stainless steel or paper, and let management know why.

Americans daily discard 500 million plastic straws (StrawlessOcean.org/alternatives).

“Consumers are willing to change if options are available,” observes Szaky. “Manufacturers need to offer high-quality, reusable products designed for reuse equal or superior in value to single-use, disposable items.”

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

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www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

wise words

HAROLD KOENIG on Why Science Finds Faith a Healthy Choice

P

by April Thompson

hysician Harold G. Koenig, an international authority on religion, health and ethical issues in medicine, has dedicated his career to understanding the relationship between faith and health. Koenig, who has surveyed the scientific literature, shares the mounting evidence linking the power of faith to better health and well-being.

Koenig struggled for three decades to determine his life’s purpose before a spiritual transformation in 1984 set him on a Christian path. “As I’m able to surrender my will and follow God’s lead, I’ve found an increasing flow of blessings. Even in those times when I’m self-centered, the blessings continue. I can only attribute it to the incredible undeserved grace and mercy of one who understands and forgives,” he says.

He’s the director of Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health, an associate professor of medicine at the Duke University Medical Center, in Durham, North Carolina, and author of nearly 50 books. Titles include The Healing Power of Faith, The Handbook of Religion and Health, and the recent You Are My Beloved. Really?, musings on the nature of divine love.

What maintains people’s faith in the face of worldly adversity?

Adversity can increase people’s faith; when things are going well, people don’t feel the same urgent need for religion.

Why do hurricanes happen? Why do people experience chronic pain? When someone is in the midst of challenges, there is no easy explanation, even though there can be many answers. Sometimes all you can do is to have faith that a good God reigns, despite appearances. That can lead to a sense of well-being and spiritual purpose, even in the midst of bad material experiences.

How you’ve dealt with life prior to a challenge matters. If you follow a spiritual path and practice, when bad things happen, you can lean on your foundation of faith; you’re better prepared. Once you’re in the middle of it, all you may feel is the pain and a desperate desire to get rid of it.

One of the most precious gifts we have as humans is the freeJanuary 2018

33

dom to choose. We can be selfish and strictly pleasure-seeking, or we can be kind and altruistic. We can turn toward or away from our divine source.

What have you concluded from decades of studying the relationship between faith, prayer and health?

Our research and that of many other major academic institutions, including Harvard and Columbia universities, shows that people of strong faith enjoy better social, physical and mental health, all else being equal. It drives healthy behaviors and attitudes, which leads to better health.

A person’s religious beliefs and spiritual practices affect them across their lifespan. It begins in utero, based on parental behavior and care, and shows in the sense of trust we have as infants. In this way, parents’ faith-based moral values also can favorably affect their children’s levels of stress, depression and drug use later on.

Is there a tension between the yearning for scientific certainty and the intuitive nature of faith?

I feel that tension constantly as a scientist and a believer. I’m always challenging myself; you have to be objective as a scientist, to observe without reading into things. But the wisdom of the scriptures has endured through thousands of years, applied by believers through

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the ages in many different groups and cultures. About 80 percent of Americans today believe in God, nearly 90 percent in a higher power, and 84 percent of the world’s people have religious faith.

Such faith must serve some kind of function for it to have persisted throughout the millennia.

There is much that is still unknown, and may not be knowable from a scientific perspective. You need to use common sense and intuition. It requires a leap of faith, but once you do it, everything falls into line—though I admit as a scientist I keep trying to understand things from a rational perspective.

What are the pathways by which spirituality contributes to health?

Science supports firsthand experience; that the virtues instilled by a religious path ultimately lead to better decision making, relationships and greater well-being. They help to neutralize negative emotions. These benefits accrue through adulthood and yield fruit into old age. The coping mechanism that spiritual practices provide is also important. It helps us to tolerate and navigate difficult situations and integrate meaning and purpose into daily life.

I don’t think science can prove to us that faith leads to divine healing. But through natural mechanisms alone, ones that we can understand and study, tremendous evidence exists to show that it benefits health and maybe even longevity.

Connect with freelancer April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

fit body

10,000 Steps and Counting Keep Moving to Stay Fit

W

by Kathleen Barnes

Odua Images/Shutterstock.com

e have become a nation of couch potatoes. The average American takes only 5,900 steps a day, somewhat better than the sedentary Brits that average less than 4,000. The notion that overall we need to take 10,000 steps a day to be physically fit started with manpo-kei, a 1960s Japanese marketing tool to sell pedometers.

While the 10,000 steps concept lacks specific supporting science, it’s widely acknowledged that we are healthier the more that we move. Affixing a target number to it helped spread the notion of the benefits of walking, says Catrine Tudor-Locke, Ph.D., a walking behavior researcher at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Tudor-Locke is a proponent of the walking goal, although she readily admits the real objective is to get people moving more. “Any opportunity to walk more, more frequently and farther, wherever that is—it all adds up,” she says.

Making 10,000 Steps Possible For those already physically fit and physically active, 10,000 steps is a no-brainer. However, it’s never too late to start for those with exercise programs that have been supplanted by a too-busy-to-workout lifestyle.

There’s probably no easier exercise than walking, says Dr. Melina Jampolis, the Los Angeles author of The Doctor on Demand Diet.

“Walking is the number one exercise I recommend to most of my patients, because it is exceptionally easy to do, requires only a supportive pair of quality sneakers and

has tremendous mental and physical benefits that increase just by getting outside in the fresh air.”

The biggest bang for the increased effort is the first 3,000 to 4,000 steps between the sedentary baseline and 10,000 steps, Tudor-Locke explains.

“Still, 10,000 steps is the magic number for the average American,” says Dr. Michael Roizen, chief wellness officer at the Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, Ohio. “That specific number of steps seems to help break down insulin resistance, an underlying cause of Type 2 diabetes. We’re not exactly sure how this happens, but we know that this amount of exercise takes the glucose from the blood where it is a hazard to the cells, so that it becomes less hazardous.”

Exponential Health Benefits Many more well-documented health benefits of a walking program include: 4 increased heart health 4 lower blood pressure 4 stronger muscles 4 improved balance 4 weight control 4 natural stress relief

Several studies from places like Harvard Medical School’s affiliate Brigham and Women’s Hospital also show that a brisk walking program nearly cut in half the risk of early death in breast cancer patients.

Most exercise experts note that a walking pace that leaves the walker only slightly out of breath reaps the greatest rewards. “One hundred steps a minute is a good cadence,” advises Tudor-Locke.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly, or 30 minutes five days a week, for virtually everyone. Many experts don’t believe it’s necessary to move for 30 minutes straight. Ten-minute increments work fine; so a quick morning walk around the block, another outing during the lunch hour and a refreshing walk with the dog after work can do the trick. Some evidence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion suggests that varying walking speed is even more effective in overcoming insulin resistance and burning calories.

Counting Up Roizen recommends wearing a pedometer or using a free iPhone app (no need for a fitness band), mainly to keep up awareness of our daily step count. There’s no age when we don’t need to walk anymore.

If a consistent 10,000 steps does wonders for health, some ask if more would be better. “Ten thousand is the answer for health and longevity, but 12,000 or more makes a difference for fitness and calorie burning, so go for it!” Roizen says.

Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous books on natural health, including Our Toxic World: A Survivor’s Guide. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

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Breathwalking Adds Benefits

Divorce Happens.

T

The Guide to Good Divorce program is designed to empower women to successfully navigate through divorce toward a fuller, healthier and happier life.

The program offers information and advice from uniquely qualified experts on the law of divorce in Texas, divorce financial planning, life skills, and wellness.

Join other women and discover the keys to unlocking your next best life!

The Guide to Good Divorce Seminar Saturday, January 27, 2018 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 111 N. Post Oak Lane Houston, Texas 77024

Unlock the door to your next best life.

For details on seminars and upcoming events, visit or call 713-932-7177.

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GTGD NA_AD_Jan_2018.indd 1

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com 12/5/17 12:32 PM

How to Do It Wave breath: Inhale steadily through the nose to the count of four while taking four steps, exhale through the mouth to a count of four while taking another four steps.

Stair breath: Make four distinct inhalations through the nose to a count of four while taking four steps; and then exhale through the mouth in four sharp exhalations while taking another four steps.

Dr. Jim Nicolai, who is affiliated with the University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, in Tucson, has created a helpful instructional video at Tinyurl.com/HowToBreathwalk.

mimagephotography/Shutterstock.com

The end of a marriage often leaves us feeling flawed, enraged, anxious and lonely. Yet, in the midst of this uncertainty and pain, there are opportunities for self-discovery, personal growth and new beginnings.

his kundalini yoga breathing technique, when combined with a brisk walking program, changes the basic rhythms of the body, even at cellular levels, according to the Kundalini Research Institute, in Santa Cruz, New Mexico.

Breathwalking, a particular combination of breathing and walking, improves several brain functions, according to research the institute conducted with the University of Arizona. Breathwalking, compared to normal walking, increases executive function by as much as 80 percent and improves cognitive function, judgment and mental focus.

Other findings by the institute are that breathwalking improves vision, including depth of field and clarity of detail, as well as muscle balance and heart function.

“If aerobic exercise resembles the pure power of a single frequency emanating from a strong radio station, then breathwalking looks like many frequencies mixed into complex and richly textured patterns. One is a tone; the others add melody, chords and harmonies. It is like comparing loud noise to sophisticated music,” notes the organization’s website.

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January 2018

37

calendar of events

FRIDAY JANUARY 26TH

NOTE: All Calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Email Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please.

THURSDAY JANUARY 4 Grief & Loss Support Group. 10:30am-12noon. In your time of loss you can lean on us for support. If you have had a death of a loved one, divorce, loss of a job or home/assets, please join us. FREE. Everlasting Health & Wellness LLC in the River Oaks Tower 3730 Kirby Drive Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098.

EverLastingHealthWellness.com 713-834-1113.

SATURDAY JANUARY 6TH Marva’s Holistic Fair. 10:00am-5:00pm. Psychics, tarot readers, palmists, healers, vendors of all sorts.

Admission Free. LaQuinta Inn-Galleria on 610 West Loop North between San Felipe and Post Oak, 77027. psychicfairs.com 713-444-3581

SUNDAY JANUARY 7TH Bayou Bikers. 8:00am. Meet at Market Square Park for 25-40 mile bike rides exploring the bayous of Houston. Rides are open to all. Mountain bikes or bikes with fat tires are necessary. This is an informal group whose purpose is to show Houstonians and visitors the beauty of Houston’s waterways.

Market Square, 301 Milam, 77002. 713-845-1000 marketsquarepark.com Spiritual Sundays: Manifesting Your Dreams Using the Power of Your Mind and Hypnosis.

12:15am-2pm. Learn how your mind works for you and against you and how to kick those bad habits that are keeping you from living your dreams using hypnosis. Free and open to the public. Lady Tegwen’s Healing Center, 2642 Forge Creek Rd, 77067.

Contact Claudia Autry at(281)849-4610

TUESDAY JANUARY 9 Weight Loss & Healthy Lifestyle Discussion.

6:30-7:30 pm. Find the cause of weight struggles and learn how to lose weight and keep it off. FREE. Everlasting Health & Wellness LLC in the River Oaks Tower 3730 Kirby Drive Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098. EverLastingHealthWellness.com 713-834-1113.

SATURDAY JANUARY 13 Grief & Loss Support Group. 10:30am-12noon. In your time of loss you can lean on us for support. If you have had a death of a loved one, divorce, loss of a job or home/assets, please join us. FREE. Everlasting Health & Wellness LLC in the River Oaks Tower 3730 Kirby Drive Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098.

EverLastingHealthWellness.com 713-834-1113.

SUNDAY JANUARY 14TH Half-day Retreat. 9:00am-12:00pm. Chan/Zen Meditation Classes guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568

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TUESDAY JANUARY 16TH

mark your calendar Ecumenical Prayer Service. 7:00pm. In observance of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church will hold this ecumenical service with 10 denominations represented and Dr. Harvey Clemons of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church preaching. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org

THURSDAY JANUARY 18TH Learn to Meditate for Stress Release and Emotional Healing. 6:30pm-7:30pm. Join us for a powerful introductory talk to learn the purpose of meditation and how it can help you in your daily life! Free. The Health Museum, 1515 Hermann Dr., 77004.

SATURDAY JANUARY 20TH

mark your calendar YogaMass ®. 4:00pm-5:30pm. A unique and participative worship experience engaging the senses and integrating body, mind, and spirit through the combined practice of yoga, breath work, meditation, and Holy Communion. Bring your mind, body, soul and mat. All levels are welcome. Chairs are available for those who wish to sit. St. Andrews Episcopal Church in the Heights, 1811 Heights Blvd., 77008. For more information, contact Grace at 832-667-8601, info@graceinhouston.org or yogamass.com.

SUNDAY JANUARY 21ST Blessing Ceremony. 9:30am-12:00pm. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568 Choral Evensong at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. 4:00pm. This service of Evensong (a sung service focusing on prayer and scripture) recognizes the conversion of St. Paul. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org

THURSDAY JANUARY 25TH “Invisible No More: Reclaiming the Significant Roles of Prehistoric Women.”6:30pm. Dr. James M. Adovasio presents a free Discovery Series Lecture hosted by the Archaeological Institute of America, Houston Society, on the significant societal contributions of prehistoric women. Free and open to the public. Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Brown Auditorium Theater, 1001 Bissonnet, 77005.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Critical Mass-Houston. Assemble at 6:30 pm.

Roll at 7:15pm. A casual bike ride starting from downtown Houston and going wherever. Cars rule the road every day, but one day a month we get together to celebrate our love for bicycles and have fun riding. Free. Market Square, 301 Milam, 77002. criticalmasshouston.com A Special Kundalini Meditation. 7:30pm-8:45pm.

Awakening your kundalini and cleansing your chakras leads to states of higher consciousness, well-being and freedom from the tyranny of the monkey mind. This leads to a greater bond with your Higher Sacred Self and the discovery of true happiness. Kundalini: The vital force lying dormant within one until activated, which leads one toward spiritual power. Everyone is welcome. Love offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057.

713-782- 4050. unityhouston.org

SATURDAY JANUARY 27TH

mark your calendar The Guide to Good Divorce. 8:30am-2pm. Join other women and discover the keys to unlocking your next best life! The Guide to Good Divorce program is designed to empower women to successfully navigate through divorce toward a fuller, healthier and happier life. The program offers information and advice from uniquely qualified experts on the law of divorcein Texas, divorce financial planning, life skills, and wellness. The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 111 N. Post Oak Lane, Houston, Texas 77024. Call 713-932-7177 or visit guidetogooddivorce.com for more information or to register.

A Weekend of Release and Renewal: An EMDR and Hypnosis Approach. 9am-6pm - Jan 27th & 28th. Join Claudia Autry Consulting Hypnotist and Reiki Practitioner and Dee Gardner LMSW, LCDC,EMDR-II, CSAT-C, Learn about relieving anxiety with Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming (EMDR), rewiring the brain, reprogramming trauma, improving sleep, digestion and uplifting hopelessness with hypnosis in this highly intensive, experiential and uplifting workshop.

Space very limited for individualized experiences. $350. 3207 Mercer, 77027. Contact Claudia Autry 281-849-4610.

mark your calendar YogaMass on the Labyrinth & YogaMass: Embodying Christ Consciousness Book Signing. 4:00pm-6:00pm. The Hines Center for Spirituality and Prayer, 500 Fannin St., 77002.

(Free parking available in a non-reserved spot in the parking garage at 511 San Jacinto)

SUNDAY JANUARY 28TH Meditation Workshop. 10:00am-12:00pm. Open to everyone - especially for beginners to meditation. The master will give a brief introduction to meditation and guide the participants to do meditation. Free, donations welcome. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org or call 281-568- 1568

“Encourage:Spiritual Practice & Relationships” Workshop. 12:30pm-1:30pm. Free workshop facilitated by Brooke Summers-Perry to find common ground and develop habits that establish deeper connection through practices that increase understanding, resolve conflict, and empower mutual support and growth. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org

mark your calendar Free Pranic Healing Expo. 3pm-5pm. Experience the Power of Pranic Healing at our free Healing Expo. Skilled healers will offer mini healing sessions to anyone interested. Come get your chakras cleansed and aligned. Experience inner peace. Free admission, with a suggested donation $10 to healers. NiaMoves, 508 Pecore St., 77009

plan ahead events SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH Half-day Retreat. 9:00am-12:00pm. Chan/Zen Meditation Classes guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568

mark your calendar Lunar New Year Celebration. 10am-8pm. Join us to celebrate “Forever Spring” Lunar New Year 2018 at our new Awake Center! Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, Awake teacher and founder of Universal Door Meditation Center will be on hand to meet you. Authentic Vietnamese food and drink, dragon dance, live music, vendor booths and games and a bounce house for the children. FREE. Universal Door Meditation Center 15202 Dora Lane, Sugar Land, TX 77498.

UniversalDoor.org

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH AND SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH Oneness Awakening Course. Fri. 2/16 – 7pm-9pm & Sat. 2/17 – 9am-9pm. Awakening is the rising of consciousness where there is greater awareness, joy, love, togetherness, and focus in everything that you do and experience. The course is an intensive journey of inner growth, culminating with participants having the option to be initiated as a Blessing Giver.

For more info, fees, and to register: unityhouston. org or call Janis Shanks at 713-782-4050. Unity of Houston, Wallet Hall, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH

mark your calendar YogaMass ®. 4:00pm-5:30pm. A unique and participative worship experience engaging the senses and integrating body, mind, and spirit through the combined practice of yoga, breath work, meditation, and Holy Communion. Bring your mind, body, soul and mat. All levels are welcome. Chairs are available for those who wish to sit. St. Andrews Episcopal Church in the Heights, 1811 Heights Blvd., 77008. For more information, contact Grace at 832-667-8601, info@graceinhouston.org or yogamass.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH Blessing Ceremony. 9:30am-12:00pm. Free. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072 zen@cthouston.org www.cthouston.org 281-568-1568

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24TH AND SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH

mark your calendar New Enrollment for the PATH Foundation Hypnosis Certification Courses. 9am-5pm.

First class in the certification process to learn basic hypnosis skills. Learn the art of hypnosis for making changes in your life and in others. Learn about using hypnosis for pain relief, self improvement, self confidence, stress management, weight loss and stop smoking and more. Learn about past life regression and the magic behind stage hypnosis. For more information and to register for class, call Claudia at (281) 849-4610. (2nd class Mar 23 & 24, 3rd class April 21 & 22.)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH

mark your calendar Hypnosis Center Open House. 6pm-8pm. Come to the PATH Foundation open house at its new location, meet the instructors, learn about what hypnosis really is, how you can use hypnosis to better your life and what it takes to be trained to help yourself and others with this powerful tool.

Hypnosis demonstration included. Complimentary event, 3207 Mercer, 77027, For directions contact Claudia at 281-849-4610.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9TH Lecture with Dr. Jean Houston - Mapping a New Life of Purpose, Power, and Meaning. 7:30pm9:30pm. Join us for an evening lecture with Dr. Jean Houston, philosopher, author, former consultant to the United Nations and global communities, invites you to clarify your own path to a life with purpose, power, and meaning. She will provide a map for self-discovery through stories, dancing, probing questions, and non-traditional introspection.$40.00 gen admission, $55.00 VIP. http://bit.ly/2ACVYZh

January 2018

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on going events NOTE: All Calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Email Mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

No phone calls or faxes, please.

daily Houston Arboretum. 7am-6:30pm. Walk in nature. Learn about native plants and wildlife. Free.

Houston Arboretum 4501 Woodway Dr., 77024. houstonarboretum.org St. Arnold Brewing Company - Brewery Tours.

Mon.-Fri. Public Tours at 1:00pm and 3:00pm – Sat. Tours at 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm – no admission charge, food and beer a la carte prices. 2000 Lyons Ave, 77020. saintarnold.com 713-686-9494 Rothko Chapel. 10am-6pm (except during special events) The Rothko Chapel is an independent institution, a sacred place open to all people, every day. Free. Rothko Chapel 3900 Yupon, 77006.

713-524-9839 rothkochapel.org Waugh Bridge Bat Colony. Sunset. Every evening at sunset, more than 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from crevices found in the Waugh Drive Bridge. These creatures are nonmigratory and call the bayou home year-round.

Free. Waugh Street at Allen Parkway 77019. houstontx.gov/parks/bats.html Healing Circles at St. Paul’s Houston. Healing Circles bring people together in the midst of difficult circumstances. Whether someone is experiencing grief, going through a divorce or raising a child with special needs, Healing Circles allow renewal to happen in community within a safe, accepting environment. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004.

For available groups, times, and more info visit www.stpaulshouston.org/healing-circles Addiction Recovery. Al-Anon is a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope. Groups meet at St. Paul’s on Sundays at 6 pm in S-109; Mondays at noon in S-109; and Wednesdays at noon in S-105.

Additionally, a Spanish-speaking group meets on Sundays at 5 pm in A-101. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. 5501 Main St., 77004.

save the date Yoga Class. Mon. - Sat. visit site for daily times. Yoga brings the practitioner into intimate relationship with their Self. Every teacher at The Hines Center provides the best class for the practitioners who arrive — helping students grow their practice regardless of experience, strength or flexibility. Sign-up at hinescenter.org/ class-schedule/ or drop-in before class. $15 per session, 10% discount for registering online, or unlimited movement classes $50 per month. The Hines Center, 500 Fannin St., Ste. 100, 77002.

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monday

Tom Turner Band. 5pm-7pm. Live music at The Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-2268563 www.lastconcert.com

Tai Chi at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

9am–10am. Meet in the Activity Center/Gym. No special clothing or gear is necessary. Free and open to the public. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org

HIIT/Yoga. 5:30pm. Join us for 30 minutes High Intensity Interval Training/30 minutes Hatha Yoga.

All levels welcomed. All classes are by appointment only - space is limited. Private sessions available upon request. Please visit yogamixstudio.com or call 713-269-5165 to register. YogaMix, 2601-G Cartwright Rd, Missouri City, 77459.

Hatha Yoga. 9:30am & 6:00pm. All levels welcomed. Bring Yoga mat, meditation pillow, water.

Blankets, blocks & straps available if needed. All classes are by appointment only - space is limited.

Private sessions available upon request. Please visit yogamixstudio.com or call 713-269-5165 to register. YogaMix, 2601-G Cartwright Rd, Missouri City, 77459.

Pilates. 12:00pm-12:50pm. A gentle and gradual approach to Pilates training — for those looking to add variety to their fitness routine! Sign-up online at hinescenter.org/class-schedule or drop-in before class. $15 per session, 10% discount for registering online, or unlimited movement classes $50 per month. The Hines Center, 500 Fannin St., Ste. 100, 77002.

Barre Class. 5:30pm-6:20pm. In Barre Class, we use a ballet barre for isometric strength training.

The class uses elements from Yoga and Pilates to build strength, flexibility, alignment and balance - helping us keep a nice, toned physique. Sign-up online at hinescenter.org/class-schedule/ or dropin before class. $15 per session, 10% discount for registering online, or unlimited movement classes $50 per month. The Hines Center, 500 Fannin St., Ste. 100, 77002.

Beginners Yoga 7-8:30 pm. Discover your strengths and balances through a therapeutic approach to yoga alignment and mind/body integration. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston, 5200 Fannin 77004. stanpolins@hal-pc.org. www.firstuu.org Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). A fellowship of men and women recovering from alcoholism through mutual support and accountability. An open meeting called Calumet Friends meets on Mondays at 7 pm in J-203. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

5501 Main St., 77004.

Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free.

Downtown Library Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org

tuesday Grace2Go. 7:00-8:30 am. On the go? Want a boost to the start of your day? Drive thru for free coffee, a breakfast bite, and a prayer if desired. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www.graceinhouston.org.

Yoga at India House. 11:00-12:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

T'ai Chi Ch'uan. 5:45pm-7:00pm. Intended for serious relaxation, this class concentrates on creating and moving Chi/Qi (vital force) through meditation while moving. Jon Naylor teaches the traditional Yang Style short form with martial arts references.

Beginners are encouraged to arrive early. Free. First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin Street, 77004. firstuu.org Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-7:30pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation, so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free.

South Community Center. 2235 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands, 77380. 832-433-2415. info@Houston-Meditation.org Yoga at Resurrection MCC. 7:00-8:00 pm. Get in touch with your mind, body, and spirit through Yoga! Connect with others in this non-competitive activity suitable for everyone. All body types and skill levels are welcome. Please bring a mat and towel. Extra mats are available for those new to Yoga. Free, donations accepted. Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2015 West 11th Street, 77008. Yoga@ResurrectionMCC.org Oneness Blessing Meeting. 7:30-9pm. Our weekly meeting includes sharing, meditation, Oneness teachings, and the giving and receiving of the Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha. Connect with the Oneness Community to explore deeper experiences of Oneness, Divine Love and accelerated awakening. Child care is available, reservation required. $10 suggested Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr., 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org

save the date Vegan World Radio. 8:00 pm. Hosted by VWR Collective. Telling the story of the vegan revolution that's saving the animals, the planet and our health. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org The Sidemen. 9pm-1am. Live music at The Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

wednesday save the date Tai Chi at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. 9am–10 am. Meet in the Activity Center/Gym. No special clothing or gear is necessary. Free and open to the public. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org

Hatha Yoga. 9:30am & 6:00pm. All levels welcomed. Bring Yoga mat, meditation pillow, water.

Blankets, blocks & straps available if needed. All classes are by appointment only - space is limited.

Private sessions available upon request. Please visit yogamixstudio.com or call 713-269-5165 to register. YogaMix, 2601-G Cartwright Rd, Missouri City, 77459.

Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-8:00pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation, so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free. University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479.

832-433-2415. info@Houston-Meditation.org

Veterans Helping Veterans. 12pm–1pm. Facilitated by Gulf War veteran James Pride, this gathering is for veterans to come together to share their service experience and its impact on their lives.

Veterans also exchange resources with each other and request support. Lunch is provided. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 Main St., 77004. www.stpaulshouston.org/veterans

Blue Line Bike Ride. 7pm. We have multiple rides that leave from our Heights location on Wednesday evening at 7:00pm. Each ride has its own route and distinct pace, so come on out and decide which one works best for you and hop in! Free. Blue Line Bike Lab, 3302 White Oak Drive, 77007. 713-802-1707 www.bluelinebikelab.com/shop-rides

Wednesday Oneness Blessing. 5:30-6:45pm.

The Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha, is a hands-on, direct transfer of energy. Which can strengthen your relationship with your Divine, Spirit, God; however you relate to that. Bring freedom from your chattering mind. And can cause your Authentic You to shine and become present in the moment and experience fullness of life as it truly is. The more blessings you receive, the greater the benefit. Child care available, no reservation required. Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr, 77057. 713-782-4050. unityhouston.org Barre Class. 5:30pm-6:20pm. In Barre Class, we use a ballet barre for isometric strength training.

The class uses elements from Yoga and Pilates to build strength, flexibility, alignment and balance - helping us keep a nice, toned physique. Sign-up online at hinescenter.org/class-schedule/ or dropin before class. $15 per session, 10% discount for registering online, or unlimited movement classes $50 per month. The Hines Center, 500 Fannin St., Ste. 100, 77002.

Christian Meditation. 6:00-7:00pm. Experience meditation and contemplative prayer using ancient prayer practices of the early Christian communities. Explore and study contemporary and ancient texts of the contemplative way. All are welcome.

Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025.

Parking is free and available at the Woodwind St. entrance. www.graceinhouston.org. Questions? info@graceinhouston.org or 832-667-8601.

Urban Ride. 6:30pm. Be ready to roll at 6:30PM. The route is 20 miles. Riders should be comfortable keeping a pace of 18-20 mph. Helmet, front and back light, spare tube, and CO2 cartridges are required. Earphones are not allowed. Speed may vary depending on who shows. Safety comes first.

Free. Urban Bicycle Gallery, 4814 Nett St., 77007. judy@urbanbicyclegallery.com Sahaja Yoga-Meditation. 6:30-7:30pm. Come around and try our free weekly yoga-meditation classes. Simply turn up, and make yourself comfortable. Each session includes the basics and a practical guided meditation so that you can start meditating at home straight away. Free. Kingwood Library, 4400 Bens View Lane, 77339. 832-433-2415. info@Houston-Meditation.org

Beginning Zen Meditation. 7:30-9:30pm. Feeling stressed? Want something to help you feel better?

Try meditation with us. Free, registration required.

Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston. 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org Diamond Way Meditation. 7-7:45 pm. Free.

Diamond Way Buddhist Center, 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D. 281. 77018. 281-436-6081. diamondway.org/houston/ Hellina Bucket Band 8:00 -10:00pm. Free dinner music. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St. 77002.

713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free.

Downtown Library Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org Pot Roast. 10:00pm-12mn. Late night music outside under the stars. Cover charge. Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Drum Circle at Midnight 12mn-2am $7.00 Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

thursday Grace2Go. 7:00-8:30 am. On the go? Want a boost to the start of your day? Drive thru for free coffee, a breakfast bite, and a prayer if desired. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www.graceinhouston.org.

Yin Yoga. 9:30am. Slow, deep stretch practice addressing stamina and the connective tissues. Appropriate for all levels. Extremely therapeutic. Increase flexibility. Facilitate peace of mind. $20 drop-in.

River Oaks Wellness Center, 2202 W. Alabama, 77098. Lin Weiss, Certified Yoga Therapist - 713858-8595, linweiss@conscioushealingnow.com Museum of Fine Arts-Houston. 10am-9pm. If you have not spent time enjoying the art exhibits at MFAH, what are you waiting for? Free. MFAH, 1001 Bissonnet, 77005. 713-639-7300 mfah.org Yoga at India House. 11:00-12:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst

Buffalo Soldiers Museum. 1-5pm. Buffalo Soldiers Museum is the only museum dedicated to preserving the legacy and honor of African American soldiers in the United States. Free. Buffalo Soldiers Museum, 3816 Caroline Street, 77004.

Buffalosoldiersmuseum.com 713-942-8920.

Houston Museum of Natural Science. 2-5pm.

Roam the Serengeti, walk with dinosaurs and discover the world's mineral wonders. Free. HMNS 5555 Hermann Park Drive 77030. hmns.org Free Family Thursdays at The Health Museum.

2:00pm-7:00pm. Free entry into The Health Museum to enjoy permanent and traveling exhibits (DeBakey Cell Lab requires a $3 fee) on Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Health Museum, 1515 Hermann Dr., 77004. thehealthmuseum.org 713-521-1515 Children’s Museum of Houston. 5-8pm. Enjoy all the interactive exhibits at the museum with your children. Free. Children’s Museum, 1500 Binz, 77004. 713-522-1138 cmhouston.org Shorin Ryu Karate.6:00pm. Join us for Traditional Okinawan Karate. All classes are by appointment only - space is limited. Private sessions available upon request. Please visit yogamixstudio.com or call 713-269-5165 to register. YogaMix, 2601-G Cartwright Rd, Missouri City, 77459.

Meditation Class: Discovering the Awake Within.

7-9pm. Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien closely guides and interacts with students to realize Awake Mind is already within, they have the capacity to Wake Up, and how to apply meditation. This class provides a stable foundation for those who are ready to move to the next level, go deeper in their meditation practice, and touch with the Awake within. Suggested donation $50/month. Pre-registration required. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, 77498. universaldoor.org. 281-565-9718

save the date People of Earth. 9:00 pm. Hosted by Jacquelyn Battise. A program created to provide Native American and non-Native people with timely news and information about culture, news and realities. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

friday HIIT/Yoga. 5:30pm. Join us for 30 minutes High Intensity Interval Training/30 minutes Hatha Yoga.

All levels welcomed. All classes are by appointment only - space is limited. Private sessions available upon request. Please visit yogamixstudio.com or call 713-269-5165 to register. YogaMix, 2601-G Cartwright Rd, Missouri City, 77459.

Houston International Folk Dancers. 7:30-10pm.

Houston International Folk Dancers is a recreational folk dance group that celebrates ethnic dances from around the world: Eastern and Western Europe, Middle East and Mediterranean, and the Americas.

You will delight in the diverse rhythms, melodies and unique dance styles of cultures from over 30 countries. Experienced folk dancers are always ready to help beginners. Singles welcome. Dress comfortably. Admission is $5. First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston, 5200 Fannin, 77004.

Additional info at www.folkdancers.org

January 2018

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Food Not Bombs. 8pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate or just come see what we do. Free. Downtown Library Courtyard, 521 Lamar, 77002. houstonfoodnotbombs.org Dinner Music with Jimmy Deen. 6-8pm. Cover charge. Last Concert Cafe 1403 Nance St. 77002.

713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

saturday Yoga for the Body and Mind. 8-9:30 am. Yoga classes based on the teachings of Swami Ramdev ji including asanas, pranayama and meditation. Free.

Arya Samaj Greater Houston Center 14375 Shiller Rd. 77082. 281-242-5000 aryasamajhouston.org.

Integrative Hatha Yoga. 9:30am. Hatha Yoga addresses the musculoskeletal, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular & endocrine systems of the human body, placing emphasis on correct posture development & healthy anatomy. Increase strength, stamina, vitality & peace of mind. $20 drop-in. Houston Ayurveda Center, 3222 Mercer St., 77027. Lin Weiss, Certified Yoga Therapist - 713-858-8595, linweiss@conscioushealingnow.com Beginning Zen Meditation. 10am-12n. Feeling stressed? Want something to help you feel better?

Try meditation with us. Free, registration required.

Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org Children’s Zen Meditation. 10am-12n. Open to children ages 4-12. Parents must be present and participate. Free, registration required. Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston, 12129 Bellaire Blvd., 77072. 281-568-1568. cthouston.org **Classes begin Jan 8th, 2018** Yoga at India House. 10:00-11:00am. Enjoy relaxing cardio work out at India House. Free. India House, 8888 West Bellfort, 77031. Go to the website, print out the form and email it to the address given. http://bit.ly/2kbWEst Young Writers Workshop. 10:30am-11:30am.

Kids learn to express their thoughts an develop language skills. Presented by Houston Public Library/ HPL Express and Discovery Green. Houston's only free and open writing workshop for kids conducted

by Writers In The Schools. Limited to 25 students, first come first serve. Free. Discovery Green, 1500 McKenney, 77010. discoverygreen.com For more information please call 832-393-1375.

T'ai Chi Ch'uan. 10:30am-12:00pm. Intended for serious relaxation, this class concentrates on creating and moving Chi/Qi (vital force) through meditation while moving. Jon Naylor teaches the traditional Yang Style short form with martial arts references. Beginners are encouraged to arrive early.

Free. First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin Street, 77004. firstuu.org

sunday Yoga for the Body and Mind. 8-9:30 am. Yoga classes based on the teachings of Swami Ramdev ji including asanas, pranayama and meditation. Free.

Arya Samaj Greater Houston Center, 14375 Shiller Rd., 77082. 281-242-5000 aryasamajhouston.org.

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Houston

Sunday at Houston Zen Center. 8am-11am. We start with the practice of Morning Service. This is followed by meditation, then work practice, which involves mindful cleaning and straightening in the Meditation Hall and the Center’s grounds. Then a dharma talk, the teachings of Buddha. You are welcome to attend some or all of the Sunday program.

Free. HOUSTON ZEN CENTER, 1605 Heights BLVD., 77008. 713-869-1952. houstonzen.org Sunday Oneness Blessing. After 9am and 11am services. The Oneness Blessing, also known as Deeksha, is a hands-on, direct transfer of energy.

Which can strengthen your relationship with your Divine, Spirit, God; however you relate to that.

Bring freedom from your chattering mind. And can cause your Authentic You to shine and become present in the moment and experience fullness of life as it truly is. The more blessings you receive, the greater the benefit. Child care available, no reservation required. Love Offering. Unity of Houston, 2929 Unity Dr, 77057. 713-782-4050.

Christian Meditation. 9:00am-9:30 am. Experience meditation and contemplative prayer using ancient prayer practices of the early Christian communities in preparation for receiving Holy Communion at the 10am worship service. All are welcome. Grace Episcopal Church, 4040 W. Bellfort, 77025. www.graceinhouston.org. Questions? info@graceinhouston.org or 832-667-8601.

Free Yoga Lab! 9:00am-10:00am. Join us for this dedicated class for new teachers and teachers in training to practice their classes and express their awesomeness! Free. The Heights Medical Tower, 427 West 20th St., Suite 602, 77008. fourdragonsinstitute.com 713-322-9736 Sunday Celebrations at Creative Life Spiritual Center. 9:30am and 11:00am. Founding minister Jesse Jennings speaks on the basics of the Religious Science path. Love offering. Creative Life Spiritual Center, 5326 Spring-Stuebner Rd., Spring, 77389. Contact info@creativelife.org or visit creativelife.org The Conversations with God Study Group.

9:30am-10:45am. Study materials provided, this ongoing gathering is facilitated by Dr. Obidike Kamau.

Free. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania,77587. carmeltemple.org Sunday Service at Unity of North Houston.

10:15-11:15am Experience joy-filled vibrations and high-energy spirituality in motion that is our Sunday service! With live music, singing, affirmative prayer, and dynamic sermons, this is a Sunday service that will feed your body, mind and heart. Now is the time to stoke your inner spark by sharing in the light everyone brings to our community. Unity of North Houston, 11738 Grant Road Cypress, 77429.

281-374-7085. unitynorthhouston.org Semanal Programa de Meditación 10am-1pm.

Ciencia de la Espiritualidad es una organización global, no religiosa, sin fines de lucro, espiritual dedicado a la unidad del amor y de la paz. Nuestro grupo de meditación Houston ha estado activo durante más de 52 años y se reúne regularmente. Cada semana nuestro grupo se reúne para meditar juntos, reflexionar sobre las palabras de los grandes santos y místicos y pasar algún tiempo con otras personas que comparten el objetivo de llevar una vida espiritualmente enriquecida y satisfactoria. Gratis. Trini Mendenhall Sosa Center, 1414 Wirt Road 77055. houstonSOS.org 832-304-0767.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Acoustic Jams. 10:30am. Easy listening music to brunch by. No cover charge. Last Concert Café, 1403 Nance St., 77002. 713-226-8563 www.lastconcert.com Ecstatic Dance Evolution.10:30am-1:00pm.

Dance. Pray. Sweat. Play. With a growing freeform conscious dance community. Shake out the stress from your week and let your spirit soar with enticing music movement and community! All people welcome. No experience required. Just be your authentic self. $15-adults, $5-kids. MATCH: Midtown Arts and Theatre Center, 3400 Main Street, 77002. ecstaticdanceevolution.com *SPRING* Youth and Teen Program at Universal Door Meditation Center. 11:00am–12:30pm.

Jan 14th - May 20th for youth grades 1-12. Under the guidance of Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, youth are introduced to the Awake Mind within, and through basic meditation as well as other activities and games, they learn how to return to it. Registration required, call for more details. Suggested donation $60/month. Universal Door Meditation Center, 2619 Charles Lane, Sugar Land, 77498. universaldoor.org 281-565- 9718 Carmel Temple All Faith Service. 11:00am. Different guest speaker every week. Free. Carmel Temple, 1208 Pennsylvania, 77587. carmeltemple.org Dawn Mountain Sunday Meditation. 11am12noon. Join us for guided meditation suitable for everyone. Led by senior members of the Dawn Mountain community. Free. Dawn Mountain 2010 Naomi Street, Suite A, 77054. dawnmountain.org Sunday Discussion Circle. 11:30am-12:30pm. You are invited to join us for facilitated, fun, educational discussions on a variety of topics. We practice our UU values of keeping an open mind, listening respectfully, learning from differing perspectives, entertaining new ways of thinking about issues, following guidelines, and being welcoming. First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin St. Rm 304, 77004. 713-526-5200 www.firstuu.org Centerpoint Body Mind and Spirit Expo. 1pm6pm. Angel oracle readings, psychic medium, tarot card readings, soul oracle readings, tea leaf astrology, astrology and past life readings, foot reflexology, energy healers, jewelry, crystals and more! Coffee, lemonade and nutritious snacks. Admission Free. Center Point (in the old Metaphysical Matrix building), 2727 Fondren Suite 5M, 77080.

713-932-7224 centerpointhouston.org Diamond Way Meditation. 5-5:45 pm. Free.

Diamond Way Buddhist Center, 2217 W 34th Street, Suite D., 77018. 281-436-6081. diamondway.org/houston/ Food Not Bombs. 7pm. Help provide free vegan meals for Houston’s homeless. Volunteer, donate, or just come see what we do. Free.

Downtown Library Courtyard 521 Lamar, 77002 houstonfoodnotbombs.org Sunday Love Feast. 7:00pm. A free vegetarian meal for any and all. Free. ISKCON Temple 1320 West 34th Street, 77018. 713-686-4482 iskconhouston.org

save the date Whole Mother. 7:30 pm. Hosted by Pat Jones.

A show that discusses the political and practical aspects of being a mother today. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email cindy@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request our media kit.

ART THERAPY TRUE YOU CREATIVITY STUDIO In The Heights trueyoucreativity.com/

True You Creativity Studio explores the spiritual aspects of Creativity and Play. We offer art and creativity classes in a relaxed, critique-free studio where you can tap into your full creative power - the power that makes you feel passionate about your life. Experience creativity in a new way, a way that gives you more of what you’re longing for. When Your Creativity has permission to be expressed, your life becomes delicious! Please browse our website and contact us with any questions. See ad on page 29.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS SPA BEAUTY & WELLNESS RIVER OAKS SPA 2034 West Gray Suite 101 Houston, TX 77019 832-566-0239 moodylicious.com

Have problems with dry skin, acne, wrinkles, rosacea or just need a quick facial pick-me-up?

Beauty Wellness LED Light Therapy offers huge benefits for a wide variety of skin types. No thermal damage or post treatment inflammatory hyperpigmentation. LED Light Therapy leaves your skin clearer and more luminous. We also offer Wellness Therapy, a natural holistic therapy that focuses on the underlying causes of your symptoms and effects changes through positive affirmation, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes. To keep your Wellness on track we offer various beauty and wellness packages, call or email us today to schedule an appointment or for more information.

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It’s kind of fun to do the impossible. ~Walt Disney

BIOENERGETICS EVERLASTING HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC In the River Oaks Tower 3730 Kirby Drive, Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77098 713-834-1113 everlastinghealthwellness.com

Suffering from chronic issues or want to improve your energy and performance on all levels, we offer several revolutionary, holistic methods that can help. We use the NES Provision Advanced Software, to examine your body-field to identify bio-energetic and bio-informational distortions. The MiHealth device may then be used to address energy blockages and alleviates symptoms immediately. We have nutritional screening and counseling, and offer quality supplements and NES Infoceuticals to meet your needs. We also offer Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Check this month’s calendar listings for our grief group workshops and call today to schedule a consultation. See ad on pages 24 & 37.

FEB

Coming Next Month

Meditation Styles Plus: Living Courageously February articles include: Finding Your Perfect Meditation Style Heart Healthy Foods Pathways Toward Personal Resilience and so much more!

BIOLOGICAL DENISTRY MARILYN K. JONES, DDS

Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 712-785-7767 MarilynKJonesDDS.com

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences.

Setting the stage for the body to heal itself includes removing infection and toxins, correcting structure, and providing the best dental materials for you which will promote an outstanding environment for your overall health. Dentistry is my true love and as a true Biological Dentist, I combine modern technology, safe protection protocols, advanced knowledge of biological dentistry and medicine, and a patient-centric approach to enhance the wellness of all my patients. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment. See ads on pages 11 & 24.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

713-927-6540 January 2018

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BOOKS THE POWER OF AWAKE

by Thich Dieu Thien

Known internationally as a very inspiring teacher full of wisdom, clarity, and compassion, Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien easily engages people of all ages, cultures, religions, and backgrounds, and helps them to discover more about who they really are, transform all stress and conflict in daily life, and return to the Awake already within each person. Based on her own personal experience, she reminds readers that our goal is not just to recognize ego but to fully realize the source and nature of it, break the system of ego, and live truly happy and free in any situation.

In Awake, ego doesn’t exist; in ego, Awake cannot appear.”You are not the voice in your head, or the emotions, or the stress... You are what can recognize the voice, the emotions, and the stress. You are Awake.” -- Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien. Available on Amazon.com

BUSINESS COACH TINA MARIE ST.CYR CERTIFIED BUSINESS & LIFE COACH STRATEGIC INTERVENTIONIST 230 Westcott St. Suite 220B Houston, TX 77007 (888) 721-4204 TinaMarie.com

14 years in the business of helping business owners get out of their own way to create measurable, predictable, sustainable growth. Tina Marie’s system is taught through an easy 6 month program that immerses entrepreneurs in all they need to produce 10X growth in customers, revenue and brand visibility.

The depth of her knowledge includes mindset coaching, marketing, prospecting, sales, finance, business development, product delivery and staffing.

She has personally created over 10M in revenue for her own businesses and for her clients. We also teach how to be a BitCoin based business for those interested in the crypto-currency market.

If you are looking for a strong, soul centered business coach who values your work life balance, call her for a Complimentary Consultation or go online to TinaMarie.com today. Fill out your own Business Growth Potential Assessment to see how much revenue you are leaving on the table and how many people need your services. Tina Marie holds 3 degrees, 4 certifications and a license in EpiPerformance. See ad on page 34.

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Houston

CHIROPRACTIC HEALTHPRO CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE 4101 Greenbriar Dr., Ste. 135, 77098 281-506-0105 9720 Cypresswood Dr., Ste. 130, 77070 281-809-0100 HealthProChiro.com

HealthPro is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients. It is our commitment that we help our patients return to a natural state of health and to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We achieve this by addressing the patient as a whole and not just a condition. We provide a variety of treatment options including adjustments, muscle therapy, acupuncture, nutritional support, and rehabilitation to name a few.

Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron focuses on woman’s health and pediatrics and has her Webster Technique Proficiency Certification and is completing her Pediatric Certification. Visit our website for more information or call to schedule an appointment.

DR. JACKIE ST.CYR, D.C. INNATE CHIROPRACTIC HEALING ARTS CENTER 230 Westcott St. Suite 220 Houston, Tx 77007 (713) 521-2104 n8chiro.com

23 years in practice serving our beloved Houston community.

Houston’s home for Network Spinal Analysis / Light Touch Chiropractic.

Dr. Jackie’s gentle NeuroStructural approach to health and healing incorporates “fullspine, wholeperson” attention and is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced forms of chiropractic care sought after by world leaders, celebrities and beautiful people just like you. Dr. Jackie has received the highest level training in Network Care available. Our center offers regular classes, community events and complimentary consults.

Transform your life today beyond your every expectation! FAMILIES WELCOME. Give us a call today! See ad on page 12.

CLOTHING THREDZ USA

5901 Hillcroft Street Suite B2 Houston, TX 77036 713-785-1600 ThredzUSA.com

THREDZ offers a wide selection of hand woven unstitched fabrics, ready to wear clothing for both men and women as well as formal wear. They provide simple, but timelessly cut pieces that have set the bar high as a prestigious fashion label. Whether you need a brand new outfit, or an entire wardrobe, their in-house stylists are more than happy to provide you with assistance to make you look your very best. Visit our website or come by our store, today!

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

COACHING BLISSFUL QUESTS Positive change starts now!

832-628-4113 http://blissfulquests.com/

Are you ready to achieve your dreams and enjoy balance and success in every area of your life?

Find out how, in just 12 weeks, you could be happier and more successful thanks to Heal Your Life® Coach Doyle Ward, who has already helped hundreds of people achieve their dreams! I offer both online and private one-on-one coaching. What are you waiting for?

Take that first step toward happiness now! See ad on page 20.

COLONICS JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE 1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 JoyceLong.biz

Established 1989 Joyce hasn’t closed. Just relocated. Call to schedule any of the following services: massage therapies, lymphatic drainage massage and facials, reflexology, infra-red sauna, ion cleanse foot or hand baths, Chinese cupping or colon hydrotherapy (prescriptions only- yours or ours).

By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

ENERGY MEDICINE ENERBODYBALANCE

832-423-8318 enerbodybalance.com cecilia@enerbodybalance.com

How often do you find yourself saying you are tired or you just don’t have the energy to do this or that or feel out of sorts or not yourself? We are not just a body and a set of experiences – we are energy. Come for an energy medicine session with Cecilia and see results.

Cecilia Timon is an Eden Energy Medicine Clinical Practitioner and a Reiki Master. EnerBodyBalance is conveniently located in the Montrose neighborhood.

HAIR DESIGN VENUS HAIR DESIGN

361 West 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008 713-868-4725 venushairhouston.com

Venus Hair Design is a mustsee place on 19th Street in The Heights. Venus and her staff are proud to be able to provide their customers of any age with any style, from a trim to a Mohawk.

She is a wizard at color. If you live in or are visiting The Heights be sure to drop by, say hi and check out her Art Car, the Venus Hairse and mention you saw her in Natural Awakenings magazine.

HEALING COME & BE HEALED 713-302-1313

Rarely will you meet a person so genuinely loving and kind as Josephine. Her work is mental, emotional and spiritual healing for those who are in distress. A consultation with her involves honestly answering questions about your problem that helps her find the likely cause and the course of action you should take to find healing. She has been doing this healing work for years and does it by donation or love gift only so that she can make it available to all regardless of their financial circumstance. She is fluent in both Spanish and English. Call her today to find out if she can help you or to schedule a consultation. Se habla español!

ION FOOT DETOX/ OXYGEN THERAPY HEAL WITH NATURAL HERBS

“The Hippest Little Place in Midtown” 3204 Emancipation Ave., Ste.102 A Houston, TX 77004 832-594-9306/ 281-227-0435/281-788-6494 Healwithnaturalherbs.com

Tired of suffering from muscle aches, chronic pain, inflammation, low energy, migraines, allgeries, bloating gas. Ion Foot Detox Special Saturday allinclusive $50 includes ion foot detox, massage chair, Oxygen Therapy. Call or book online. Saturday appointments only! Available for private parties on days other than Saturday. Call TODAY!

MEDICAL INTUITIVE HYPNOSIS CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST (by appointment only) 281-849-4610 cautry@gmail.com claudiaautry.com

We l c o m e t o y o u r transformation! Whether you are looking to change habits such as smoking or weight or looking to find better ways of relaxing and increasing the joy in your life, I can help you. In addition to hypnosis I have a variety of other modalities to help you, including reiki, ThetaHealing and customized essential oil blends and affirmations which can be combined or used individually. Together we form a partnership for your growth! Call today to book your appointment.

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN HBOT AMERICA 8180 Kirby Drive Houston, TX 77054 832-986-5144 hbotamerica.com

HBOT America has reopened at a new location and provides Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy through the breathing in of 100% oxygen at a greater than normal pressure. HBOT is medically approved by the FDA for 14 uses such as wound healing, osteomyelitis, severe anemia, and more. Our Bio-Density machine, aids in increasing bone density by stimulating the body’s natural bone generation process. Bio-Density is a safe alternative to high impact activity and helps fight effects of Osteoporosis through four Isometric exercises. Our newest addition is our Inferred Sauna for detox, weight loss and pain relief, and our Compression Therapy devises. Call us today to schedule a session.

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES FOR NATURAL HEALING & WELLNESS

LIN WEISS MH, CYT Holistic Healer Medical/ Spiritual Intuitive - Master Teacher Houston, Texas 77025 713-858-8595 linweiss@earthlink.net conscioushealingnow.com

Through her WHOLE-istic approach, Lin weaves inspired wisdom with proven healing traditions for integrating mind/body & soul. ALL NATURAL, ALL THE TIME, she specializes in Homeopathy; Bio-energetic Healing; Neurochemical Analysis/Balance; Chakra Attunement; Nutrition Therapies; Orchid Essences; Zero Energy Balance & more. Addressing a wide range of symptoms, ie: Allergies; ADD/ADHD; OCD: Arthritis; Autistic Spectrum; Chronic Fatigue; Depression; Detoxification; Fibromyalgia; MS; Parkinsons: Trauma Release, etc. Classes: Intuitive Development and Psychology of the Chakras! Call Lin today to find out if she can help you.

MEDITATION CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON

Chan/Zen Meditation Classes Guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery. No fees. Donations are welcome. No prior experience required for beginners.

12129 Bellaire Blvd., Houston 77072 281-568-1568 • zen@cthouston.org CTHouston.org

INNER ENGINEERING

Norris Conference Center – Westchase 9990 Richmond Avenue Houston, TX 77042 ishafoundation.org/us/newsletter/centers/ houston/ houston@ishausa.org

The Isha Foundation is an international non-profit dedicated to human wellbeing.

Founded by Sadhguru who is a yoga, mystic and a visionary, the Isha Foundation/Inner Engineering offers spirituality to every human being, to ensure that each individual can experience the deepest core of life within. The local Houston group sponsors monthly meditation, yoga and instructional meetings. Check their website for dates, times and locations.

UNIVERSAL DOOR MEDITATION CENTER 15202 Dora Lane Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-565-9718 UniversalDoor.org

Are you ready to Wake Up? D i s c o v e r Aw a k e m i n d through Zen meditation. Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien guides students to apply this life-changing tool in all situations. Find out how Awake mind can transform stress, struggles, health issues, and conflicts that you thought were unchangeable facts of life! Attend our FREE Tuesday Meditation 101 class. Tue: Meditation 101, 7-8pm, FREE Drop In Class. Thurs: Meditation Class: Discovering the Awake Within.

7-9pm*. Sun: Movement Meditation for Healing Mind and Body. 9:30-10:30am* Sun: Youth and Teen Program 11am-12:30n*. * = requires pre-registration/class fee. See our ad on page 7.

Optimism is

the faith that leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. ~Helen Keller

Beginning Meditation: (A)Wed, 7:30–9:30pm. (B)Sat, 10am– noon. Children Meditation: Sat. 10am–noon - For children ages 4–12 and parents. Classes begin on January 8, 2018. Half-day Retreat: Sunday, January 14, 9:00 am-noon.

Blessing Ceremony: Sunday, January 21, 9:30 amnoon. Check the web site (event calendar) for the most current information. See ad on page 15.

ISHA FOUNDATION/ January 2018

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NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188

Say goodbye to hot flashes, night sweats, depression, PCOS, thyroid problems, low libido and more. There is a 100% natural way to restore your body’s hormone balance without using either synthetic prescription hormones or bio-identical hormones. Your body already knows how to produce the correct amount of hormones. It’s just a matter of stimulating it to do so. Call me today for your FREE consultation and be on your way to a younger body and a good night’s sleep.

NATURAL WATER FILTRATION & TREATMENT ACCENT NATURAL WATER Whole House Water Treatment 23206 I-45 North Spring, TX 77373 281-773-5441 AccentH20.com

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S I N Y O U R WAT E R ?

Houston has the 6th worst water in the country. Our system takes out chlorine, pesticides and more. Plus, we treat and condition the water to make it healthier for your family. More than a water softener, table top unit or RO alone.

Healthy water from every faucet or shower. Member BBB-A+ rating since the 80’s. Don’t delay. Call Henry today! 281-773-5441

NEW DECISION THERAPY WELLNESS CONSULTATIONS

12900 Queensberry Lane, Suite 201 Houston, TX 77079 281-794-5255 drnettie.net

If you or someone you care about is suffering from addictions, compulsive behavior patterns, unhealthy relationship patterns, anxiety, phobias, depression or f eelin g stuck N ew D ecisio n TherapyTM can help. NDT uses applied and behavioral kinesiology to identify emotional trauma which may be the root cause of the problem. Once the traumatic experience that caused the behavior has been identified, the negative impact on body and mind can be cleared. Call Dr. Nettie Ramsay, N.D. today to schedule your initial consultation.

OZONE THERAPY ACTIVATE OZONE SAUNA THERAPY 2034-A W Gray St Suite 113 In the Phenix Suites- River Oaks Shopping Center Houston, TX 77019 713-294-8075 activateozone.com

Discover the amazing effects of ozone sauna therapy which helps to oxygenate your blood vessels and aids in relieving muscle soreness in athletes, pain due to arthritis, cancer treatment symptoms, and more. Ozone sauna therapy removes harmful toxins from the body while cleansing and refreshing it as well. We are dedicated to providing the best ozone sauna therapy in the Houston area and are open 7 days a week from 10am-6pm. Book your appointment online today.

You will leave feeling more refreshed than ever before!

OPTICIAN FACTORY EYEGLASS OUTLET 7921 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 713-468-5665 factoryfineeyewear.com

Do you need new eyeglasses? Whether you are looking for premium or generic eye ware, Alex Atuesta at Factory Eyeglass Outlet has something for you.

They feature both premium Zeise lenses cut in house and generic lenses starting at $99 along with a wide selection of the latest frames. Alex and his staff also do eyeglass repair and offer lifetime adjustments for their customers. Experience their friendly, professional one on one service the next time you need new eyeglasses or need your eyeglasses repaired. Factory Eyeglass Outlet accepts most insurance plans.

PERSONAL TRAINING FITBODIES

JoeyDiego Stilletto, Master Personal Trainer Houston to Galveston 832-840-4869 DancingDiego@aol.com

General fitness training & cross training for weight loss, muscle strengthening & toning. Also certified in Therapeutic Fitness R e c o v e r y f o r P a r k i n s o n ’s sufferers, stroke & heart attack victims. Model competition training expert. Contact me today to discuss options of how I can help you or your family get FIT!

REIKI & CHAKRA BALANCING ORGANIC RESORT & SPA

Friends

are the siblings God never gave us. ~Mencius

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DEER LAKE LODGE AND SPA 10500 Deer Lake Lode Rd. Montgomery Tx 77316 936-647-1383 DeerLakeLodge.com

Can’t lose weight? Feeling Sluggish? Don’t have the energy you used to have?

Let us help undo the damage from over-consumption and poor food choices. Our program of fasting, juicing, cleansing and colonics is designed to energize, strengthen and enlighten.

All natural, organic, resort and spa. Immerse yourself in personal attention from our staff while indulging in our many body-pampering and beautifying spa treatments. Call of visit our website to book your stay today! See ad on page 2.

www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

PSYCHIC & SPIRITUAL CENTER OF SUGAR LAND 11422 SW FWY Suite 500 Houston, TX 77031 281-988-8000

Are you stressed, tense, anxious?

Reiki, the Japanese energy healing therapy, may help. Do you have questions about love, your job or health. Let me probe into your future. I have 40 years’ experience doing tarot and crystal ball readings to help people. Our newly opened center is conveniently located just off the Southwest Freeway. We also offer chakra balancing to further enhance your mental and emotional state.

Call and schedule an appointment and when you do mention Natural Awakenings for a 50% discount on the first reading or session.

REIKI TRAINING REIKI MASTER JULIA CARROLL, PH.D. SCHOOL of HEALING ARTS 713-822-7380 julia@juliacarroll1.com JuliaCarroll1.com

Julia was the first Reiki Master in the State of Texas, has written 5 healing books and has had university based Reiki research published. Her book, Nu-Reiki Onness, can be found on her website and is FREE. Contact Julia today to schedule an appointment to discuss enrolling in one of her Reiki certification courses.

SPIRITUALITY CARMEL TEMPLE

1208 Pennsylvania Street South Houston 775804. 713-944-0014 CarmelTemple.org

Carmel Temple is a quiet sanctuary far away from the outer world of seeming chaos. It is a place of peace, healing, study, teaching, meditation, love, warmth, and friendship. Opened in 1970, Carmel Temple is a loving place made available for all seekers of the Light. Join us in this welcoming environment this Sunday where enlightenment, healing, and especially love are found.

GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH 4040 West Bellfort Street Houston, TX 77025 713-666-1408 GraceInHouston.org

We are a welcoming Christian community sharing our spiritual journeys through worship, fellowship and outreach. Grounded in both Episcopal worship and ancient practices, we are faithful to the rich traditions of our church while also open to creative expressions of our faith in worship and ministries.

Come and be with us for any or all of our many programs and services.

ST. PAUL’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 5501 Main Street Houston, TX 77004 713-528-0527} stpaulshouston.org

St. Paul’s Houston centers itself around vibrant worship that moves us to Christian mission, hospitality and faith formation for all peoples and communities. St. Paul’s is also home to ProjectCURATE, a multi-ethnic leadership program on race, solidarity and kinship. Weekly worship on Sundays at 8:30 am, 9:45 am and 11:05 am Check out our other offerings in the Natural Awakenings calendars. We hope you’ll respond to the Spirit leading you to connect and grow with us.

UNITY OF HOUSTON 2919 Unity Drive Houston TX 77057 713-782-4050 Unityhouston.org

Unity of Houston offers positive, practical teachings that support spiritual evolution and abundant living. The Unity movement is open and welcoming of all individuals regardless of race, color, gender, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, physical disability or sexual orientation. We take an extremely positive approach to life, emphasizing our Oneness in God and the goodness in people and all of life. We believe…”Life is meant to be good!” Come and discover it for yourself! See ad on page 33.

UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER OF GREATER HOUSTON

Temporary Home – Stage Works Theatre 10756 Grant Road Cypress, Texas 77429 281-374-7085 unityspiritualcenterhouston.org

Ours is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus - as well as other master teachers and the power of prayer.

Unity teaches that each person is a unique expression of God created with sacred worth. Living from that awareness transforms our lives and the world. Unity recognizes that there are many expressions of family life. All are welcome. Unity creates an affirming environment that fosters positive self-image, personal responsibility and unconditional love and acceptance. If you want to know God and to experience God at work in your life, join us on Sundays! You’ll discover a warm, caring community of ordinary people living extraordinary lives.

THERMOGRAPHY THERMAL IMAGING SERVICES

Angel Marlow, CNHP, CAHC, CCT 24550 Kingsland Blvd. Katy, TX 77494 713-621-4406 angel@thermalimagingtexas.com ThermalImaingTexas.com

No Compression, No Radiation, Painless. Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging or Thermography, creates images that illustrate heat patterns in the body. The thermal images are analyzed for abnormalities that may be signs of disease in the body. Thermography can be conducted onsite at your business through Thermal Imaging Services for Corporate Wellness. Locations in: Houston, Lake Charles, LA, Katy, Beaumont, The Woodlands, Tyler and Kingwood. Call for current schedule and to make an appointment. See ad on page 6.

WELLNESS COACHING THE CENTER FOR INTENTIONAL HEALING

Shannon McLain, MS 1728 Bissonnet Street Houston, TX 77005 262-470-8944 thecenterforintentionalhealing.com

Do you ever forget to take care of yourself? I know. You’re busy, and finding the time to take proper care of yourself can be hard. But if you don’t, it won’t be long before you’re battered from exhaustion and operating in a mental fog where it’s hard to care about anything or anyone. Wellness coaching is an empowering and effective way for people to actively engage in their own self-care by collaborating with a professional coach. The Center for Intentional Healing is now offering a holiday special! Sign up today for a coaching package (value $400) for ONLY $295, and self-care sessions (value $100) for ONLY $75. Visit our website today for more information or to book an appointment.

YOGA TRAINING TEX SUN YOGA SCHOOL

200 hour Yoga Teacher Training 12612 Emerald Springs Drive Pearland, TX 77584 713-446-3357 texsunyoga.com

Tex Sun Yoga School is a registered Yoga School with Yoga Alliance at the 200 hour level. All graduates eligible to register at the 200 hour level with Yoga Alliance. Tex Sun Yoga School provides an Alignment and Flow based Yoga Teacher Training program in Pearland, TX. Tex Sun Yoga School is a recognized continuing education provider with Yoga Alliance. Tex Sun Yoga School Teacher Training includes different lineages and styles of yoga in the training, providing a well-rounded objective experience and thus giving graduate’s a greater knowledge base. This prepares the graduate’s in having a wider range of teachings.

The approach used in this training is aimed at feeding the student in all different areas of self: mind, body and spirit. Become a Yoga Teacher or deepen your yoga practice with this training program. Owner and Program Director Melanie Comegys, E-RYT 500 mcomegys@gmail.com or call 713-446-3357.

200 HR YTT January 2018–Every other weekend (Jan-Jun 2018). At Tex Sun Yoga School Pearland, TX. Registration is open please visit www.texsunyoga.com for application.

January 2018

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X A E S T CONFERENCE

FRIDAY-SUNDAY A P R I L 2 0 - 2 2 2 0 18 ANNOUNCES

YOGA F OR HEA LTH TR A IN ING CON F ER ENC E

SPONSORED BY UT’S M.D. ANDERSON CANCER CENTER S P EC I A L I Z I N G I N H E A LT HY H E A RT / C A R D I O VA SC U L A R A N D C A N C ER C A R E

REGISTER AT TEXASYOGACONFERENCE.COM I S M A I L I J A M AT K HA N A A N D C E N T R E

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www.NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com TEXAS

YOGA ASSOCIATION