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Awakening Humanity GREEN Merry-Making Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

Peace on Our Plates

Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

Near Death Experiences Proof of Afterlife

December 2013 | Pocono, PA - Warren Co., NJ Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com natural awakenings

December 2013

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

www.healthylehighvalley.com

contents 10 5 newsbriefs

10 healthbriefs 13 globalbriefs

15 ecotip

13 16 wisewords 17 inspiration 18 greenlivng 19 eventspotlight 24 fitbody

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

16 HUMANITY’S

ETERNAL QUEST

Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

19 TEACHER TRAINING

by Beth Davis

30 consciouseating

20 NEAR DEATH

32 naturalpet

Proof of Life after Death

33 resourceguide 36 calendars 38 classifieds

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 610-421-4443 or email LVPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: LVPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 15th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: LVPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 15th 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.

EXPERIENCES

by Linda Sechrist

23 ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE WISE

A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

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by Lane Vail

24 TOO MUCH

TOGETHERNESS?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

25 WHEN THE STUDENT IS READY, THE 26 TEACHER SHOWS UP

by Elizabeth Daniels

26 GET SOME GOOD ZZZs

by Amber Lanier Nagle

28 GREEN MERRY MAKING

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

30 PEACE ON OUR PLATES

Mindful Eating for a

More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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Himalayan Institute and Moondog Yoga Present

natural awakenings

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letterfrompublisher

contact us Publisher Reid Boyer Local Editor Beth Davis Local Writer Beth Davis - Linda Sechrist Assistant Editors S. Alison Chabonais Design & Production Patrick Floresca Ad Production Marci Molina www.MarciMolinaDesigns.com Advertising Sales Reid Boyer LVsales@naturalawakeningsmag.com To contact Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley Edition: PO Box 421 Emmaus, PA 18049 Phone: 610-421-4443 Fax: 610-421-4445

LVpublisher@naturalawakeningsmag.com www.HealthyLehighValley.com

© 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available for $36 (for 12 issues).

Please call 610-421-4443 with credit card information or mail a check made out to Natural Awakenings – Lehigh Valley, to the above address.

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

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

Seven years ago, when I first inquired about publishing a Natural Awakenings magazine in the Lehigh Valley, the first person I spoke with at company headquarters was John Voell, Jr. Our initial phone conversation began with my seeking an opportunity to use my marketing experience and belief in the efficacy of natural healing to help local healers educate and promote themselves to the larger community. John was particularly enthusiastic about working with me to establish the magazine’s first presence in Pennsylvania.

To his credit, John’s kind support and encouragement continued unabated as I scraped together the start-up money and rearranged my life to take the plunge.

We spent hours on the phone as he patiently walked me through my fear of making such a big change, ultimately inspiring me to take a “leap of faith.” He made it clear that becoming a Natural Awakenings publisher must be a decision of the heart, because when we take action from a place of love our fears dissolve.

Love and fear simply cannot co-exist. The way kept unfolding and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

I again spoke with John this past winter as I contemplated combining the Pocono area with some of the northern communities in the Lehigh Valley and Warren County, New Jersey territory to create a new Stroudsburg centered edition. Again John was Mr. Optimism. He told me that he believed that we could help the natural living community expand and grown just as we helped in the Lehigh Valley.

In the end, he said, we must ask ourselves: “How many souls can I help in this lifetime?” Imagine if everyone asked that question each day. Over the years, as a company catalyst for personal and business development, John has helped 100+ publishers and millions of readers in the U.S. and Puerto Rico change their lives and their communities for the better. It was his idea to franchise CEO Sharon Bruckman’s original Natural Awakenings magazine, starting in 1999.

Now, 3.8 million readers nationwide are living the principles of natural, sustainable health for people and the planet and spreading word of the benefits.

Together we are contributing to a major paradigm shift in wellness that is influencing mainstream thinking and is set to rock the world for generations to come.

Our friend John passed in October, leaving our franchise family sad, yet grateful for the ability to carry on. He left us a world-changing legacy that I am honored to be part of. How glad I am that he saw the potential for the Lehigh Valley and welcomed us into the family.

Our December issue theme is, appropriately, Awakening Humanity. My hope is that it provokes thought on issues that are often not discussed or explored; there is so much more to life in the grander scheme than anyone realizes.

Thank goodness spiritual maturing enables us to grow beyond limiting views.

I for one am enjoying opening up to consider the possibilities of the bigger picture. Every month I encounter glimpses of more I do not know. I find that to be a life-affirming adventure.

May your holiday season brim with outpouring love,

Reid Boyer, Publisher www.healthylehighvalley.com

newbriefs

Registration open for 2014 St. Luke’s Half Marathon

Itsy Sweeney Joins Healing Arts Center Staff

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tsy Sweeney, a holistic health practitioner who holds a bachelor’s degree from the Clayton College of Natural Health, is now practicing at the Healing Arts Center, in Tannersville, Pennsylvania.

A licensed massage therapist specializing in neuromuscular therapy, Sweeney is also a professional raw food chef who enjoys teaching others how to prepare simple and delicious meals. She received her certifications, including in raw food nutrition science, from Sprout Raw Food Education, in Roswell, Georgia, in 2011.

The vision of the Healing Arts Center is to bring together a highly trained, multi-disciplinary team, of dedicated holistic healers for the purpose of promoting optimal wellness for our community. The center offers holistic practices including Osteopathic, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Rolfing-Structural Integration, Psychotherapy, Somatic Therapy, Homeopathic Medicine, Nutritional Counseling, and Therapeutic Massage for maximizing the patient’s health and well-being.

Location: 2937 Rte. 611, Merchants Plaza, Ste. 10. For more information, call 570-332-4365 or visit Facebook.com/HealingArtsPA.

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egistration for the 2014 St. Luke’s Half Marathon and 5K races on April 27, 2014, is now available.

The Half Marathon Weekend, produced by the Lehigh Valley Road Runners, is one of the largest races in the country with an all-volunteer staff. The 2014 events mark the fourth year that St. Luke’s University Health Network has been the presenting sponsor.

Registration the St. Luke’s Family Fun Walk, a free, 1.5-mile, non-competitive walk that begins immediately after the half marathon and 5k is also available.

The 2014 St. Luke’s Half Marathon will mark the 30th running of the event, securing its place as one of the region’s oldest and most beloved road races. With a record 3,343 finishers in 2013, the 13.1-mile race is one of the largest single-day participatory athletic events in Lehigh Valley. All proceeds benefit youth running and fitness programs in the area. More than $30,000 was raised in 2013.

The St. Luke’s Half Marathon and 5K typically sell out nearly three months before race day. All runners must register online. For more information, visit StLukesHalfMarathon.com.

Taking Reservations Now!

the victorian connection Add a unique touch to your business or personal event at our Victorian home in the Poconos • • • • • • •

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December 2013

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Herbal Studies with a Master Peace on Earth will come to stay, When we live Christmas every day. ~Helen Steiner Rice

If you are a seeker who desires a heart-based and experiential path of study, we are looking for you to join our excellent instructors on a journey of personal development and spiritual transformation.

Apply Now! Classes start January 2014!

“I chose this school because it cherishes all faiths and honors the spirit of Tikkun Olam (healing the world).” ~ F. Leibman Call or email to reserve your space now.

(267) 772-7301 • www.ssminfo.org contact@ssminfo.org 6

Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

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avid Winston’s Center For Herbal Studies is accepting applications for the twoyear Clinical Herbalist Training Program that begins in September 2014. Class will be held in Washington, New Jersey and online via live webcast and is scheduled to be the last program with the renowned herbalist as the primary instructor

David Winston, RH (AHG), an internationally respected herbalist, is the dean and teaches throughout the U.S., Canada, and the UK. He has been teaching the two-year program for 34 years.

Winston’s philosophy is, “Good herbalists treat people, not diseases, and in our program we strive to teach the skills necessary so that each student can accomplish that goal. We focus on differential diagnosis skills, materia medica and therapeutics which are essential to individualize treatment and help patients to not only resolve symptoms, but create constitutional change needed for physical, emotional and spiritual wellness.”

The comprehensive program includes case histories and clinic, phytochemistry of medicinal plants, therapeutic protocols, diagnostics, herbal pharmacy, therapeutic use of nutritional supplements, field botany and nutrition/diet. Unique to this course is the breadth of traditions studied, including Traditional Chinese medicine, Eclectic/Western herbal medicine and others.

For more information call 908-8350822, email office@dwherbal.com of visit HerbalStudies.org. See add on page 43

Orb Photography Field Trip

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he Circle of Intention, In High Bridge, New Jersey, is hosting a special field trip for conducting a form of attunement called orb photography. On December 21, there will be a slide show at 3 p.m., the photo field trip at 4 p.m., and a photo share and pot luck dinner at 6 p.m.

An orb may show up in a photo of someone's birthday, a picture taken in a garden or the kitchen or any number of mundane locations. Teacher and healer Christina Lynn Whited explains, “It means you are blessed with the presence of spirit. Orbs are essentially a point of light; they are the way a spirit will travel, the way your own spirit travels while in the dream state. Individual orbs are individual units of consciousness in most cases. That is why you can often see faces or other images within the circle of an orb.”

Cost is $30. Location: Circle of Intention, 76 Main St., High Bridge, NJ. For more information, call 908-638-9066 or visit CircleOfIntention.com.

Low-Level Laser Stops Pain at Cellular Level

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ethlehem Naturopathic Doctor and natural health practitioner Michael Jude Loquasto has been successfully treating patients using the Erchonia Low-Level Laser (3LT) for chronic pain, and states, “The laser ‘reactivates’ the cells and gets them to perform their intended function almost instantaneously. The Low-level Laser is one the greatest breakthroughs in drug-free treatment I have seen in my 50 years of practice.”

The Erchonia Low-Level Laser was the first to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance as a noninvasive, safe way to manage chronic pain without negative side effects. In a double-blind clinical trial, the Erchonia laser was proven to reduce pain by 66 percent. Its actions are photochemical, not thermal. Hot lasers in the medical world are used for surgical precision, while cold lasers are used for healing precision.

Dr Loquasto offers a free Natural Health Open Forum at 6 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month at 2571 Baglyos Circle in Bethlehem. For a consultation or to register for the forum please call 484-821-1460.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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Stop Itching Within Seconds!

newbriefs

Introducing DermaClear,

TM

the Amazing New Skin Repair Salve from Natural Awakenings All-natural DermaClear will simply feel good when applied. The proprietary blend of clays and homeopathics brings cool, soothing relief to sufferers of: • Shingles • Psoriasis • Allergic Rash • Eczema • Jock Itch • Surface Burns • Insect Bites • Stings • and more 4-oz jar

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Have a Happy, Pain-Free Holiday You’ve tried the rest, now try the best!

Dr Emu’s Rx for Pain, STOPS PAIN PLUS is formulated with pure essential oils, known for their abilities to increase circulation by promoting detoxification that can restore a positive mood and increase energy levels.

STOPS PAIN PLUS is designed to alleviate: • Neuropathy • Sore Muscles • Sciatica • Knee & Foot Pain • Sports Injuries

• Arthritis • Fibromyalgia • Stiff Joints • Neck & Back Pain • Inflammation

STOPS PAIN PLUS works faster, penetrates deeper and lasts longer than any other topical product or your money back!

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FREE trial size of Dr Emu’s STOPS PAIN PLUS included with each order of DermaClear or STOPS PAIN PLUS to share with a friend or family member. Buy one of each and get two trial sizes – a $13 value.

• SPECIAL SHIPPING - $5 for up to 5 jars or 8 bottles •

This season, shop online for these and other natural or green products at:

NAWebstore.com or call 888-822-0246

*to receive 10% off on these products, use coupon code SAVE10 Offer ends 12/31/2013

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Protect Local Farmers and Food Supply

Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently finished accepting comment on the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which has the potential to suffocate small food producers while giving corporate agribusiness an unhealthy pass.

With over 14,803 comments submitted to the FDA on the 'Standards for the Growth, Harvesting, Packing and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption', the next step for concerned citizens is to call on the FDA to offer a Second comment period before finalizing the FSMA regulations.

Given the significant inconsistencies with the proposed regulations and the long-term impact they will have on our foods, farms and choice of sustenance, another round of citizen input is critical to help the FDA get it right.

The Kutztown-based United Sludge Free Alliance refutes the premise behind the new regulations; that one in six Americans gets food poisoning from community supported agriculture, co-ops and farmers' markets requiring stricter rules. USFA contends that the culprit is not small farming but corporate Agribusiness and the use of toxic waste and water from city sewer plants.

An important issue not addressed in the new FSMA regulations is the use of sewage sludge and biosolids as a fertilizer. Fruits and vegetables 'take up' both heavy metals and pathogens from soil. Exemptions for these waste products, which are known to contain pharmaceuticals, viruses and chemicals and are the true threat to human health. Also, the FDA continues to allow irrigation water treatment that may contain antimicrobial agents, such as Triclosan, which destroy necessary soil bacteria and continue to evade testing for health impact.

To get involved in your food future comment at www.regulations.gov. For specific information on the sludge issue contact darreesicher@gmail.com or visit www.usludgefree.org.

www.healthylehighvalley.com

Conscious Holiday Gift Bazaar

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tillPoint Yoga Studio in Blairstown NJ is holding a Holiday Gift Bazaar featuring gift offerings from local artisans and a variety of other beautifully crafted items on Friday, December 6 for 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Enjoy yummy Holiday treats as you browse the vendor tables and find beautiful pashmina shawls, bags of all types, jewelry, handcrafted woodwork, watercolor prints, greeting cards, and other wonderful gift ideas.

Unsure what to give your loved ones? Consider giving the Gift of Health. Gift certificates for yoga classes, healthy cooking classes or The Body Rejuvenation Cleanse, will be available. By shopping locally you support your community and small business owners; plus you save on gas and fuel while staying close to home.

StillPoint Yoga Studio is located in the Blairstown Trades complex on Rt. 94 across from the A&P. Call 908-902-4082 for more information.

Mindfulness Training for Teens and Tweens

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t is easy for teens and tweens to become overwhelmed with expectations, electronic distractions and pressure from friends, family and school. Mindfulness gives teens and tweens the clarity to live their life in the moment, without judgment or fear. RCG Counseling, in Easton, offers a fun mindfulness training program for teens to learn a simple and healthy way to cope with these daily stressors.

The training program combines skills training, counseling and biofeedback computer technology. Teens and tweens learn to become aware of the mind/body connection as an interactive approach shows them how to maintain control of their emotions and thoughts.

The program starts with an hour-long introduction and four, 30-minute follow-up sessions, where teens and tweens learn how to make mindfulness work for them to increase focus in the classroom, improve sports performance or feel a sense of peace.

Free consultation and a $99 introductory rate are available.

For more information, call 610-258-5000. natural awakenings

December 2013

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healthbriefs

MEDITATION HELPS HEAL TRAUMATIZED VETERANS

Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’s

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ranscendental Meditation (TM) has a dramatic healing effect on people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can also result in lower blood pressure, according to two new studies. innamon is known as an

TM—a technique to avoid distracting thoughts, decrease excellent antioxidant stress and promote a state of relaxed awareness—reduced that improves PTSD symptoms in combat veterans by as much as 50 perfasting blood cent in just eight weeks, according to a study from Georgesugar levels and town University, in Washington, D.C., published in the jourprevents heart nal Military Medicine.

The veterans also reported decreased disease. Now depression and improved quality of life, with a greater ability new research offers to come back to their civilian lives after returning from duty. yet another benefit and reason

Vietnam War vets randomly assigned to TM sessions at a to add this potent spice to our daily diet.

Denver Veterans Center also experienced greater reductions in

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Baralcohol usage, insomnia and depression than those in convenbara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Altional counseling.

At the conclusion of a landmark three-month zheimer’s disease. They found that the cinnamon compounds study, 70 percent of the meditating veterans felt they no longer cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of required the services of the center. “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memo A separate American Heart Association report on ry-robbing neurodegenerative disease. the general U.S. population showed that the practice

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s of TM generally reduced systolic blood pressure Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cinin subjects by five points and diastolic by three namon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function points, enough to put many of them into normal in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of range.

Previous clinical trials have shown that oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the univerlower blood pressure through TM sity’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental practice is associated with sigBiology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like nificantly lower rates of death, heart attack stroke.

2011andIssue a cap,” protecting against tau proteins. Ad Proof #1 - April

TM is usually practiced for 15 suggest that sufficient cinnamon consump The findings ® to 20 minutes twice a day by sitting aken i ngs tion might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even precomfortably and focusing on an vent it. individually selected word or series of words. lley Edition r, Publisher maus, PA 18049 • F: (610) 421-4445 wakeningsmag.com akeningsMag.com

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layout fee is 25% nted rate of ad size. sign/layout changes 10 Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ at $40 per hour, 5 minimum.

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Cranberries Support Healthy Circulation

TO GET MORE, GIVE MORE

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iving away egularly drinking cranberry juice may help control money or blood pressure, according to new findings prespending it sented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood on others Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions. Cranberry increases juice, the researchers note, is rich in antioxidants—naturally occurring molecules the giver’s that have been associated with the blood pressure-lowering benefit. sense of

U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers discovered a moderate systolic personal pressure reduction—about three points—for people that drank two eight-ounce Box 421 Emmaus, PA 18049 • P: 610-421-4443 • F: 610-421-4445 wealth, glasses of cranberry juice every day for eight weeks. Because of the sugar calories LVEditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com • www.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com according in juice, consider the alternative of a whole-food cranberry supplement. to research Ad Proof for byNatural MichaelAwakenings Norton, of Harvard Business School, and co-author Elizabeth To: P: 610-421-4443 Dunn, of the University of British Email: F: 610-421-4445 Columbia.

The latest in a series of studies Please sign your proof andshowed complete following information: utton-type lithium batteries are all around us, powering thatthe people that support oth(Ad is shown at actual size. larger ads.) remote controls, keyless entry devices for cars, flameers, See fromsecond helpingpage with for homework to less candles, watches, greeting cards and other devices. Parents shoveling a neighbor’s driveway, feel should be aware that these batteries are attractive to small children and if swallowed, that they had more time in general Ad is approved: contact information and spelling is correct can dissolve and cause serious damage to the esophagus in as little as two hours. and that giving time away relieved Ad is approved changes

The National Safety Council reports that the number of children swallowing thewith sense of “not indicated having enough these batteries quadrupled between 2005 and 2010, to 3,400 cases, yet 62 percent time,” even more than gaining unexAd is not approved – make changes indicated of parents are unaware of the danger. pected free time.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

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Cocoa Calms New Holistic Pain Treatment for Inflammation F Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy healthbriefs

C

omplex regional pain syndrome/reflex sympathetic dystrophy CRPS/RSD is an insidious disorder of unknown origin of the nervous system that also can affect the musculoskeletal system and the body’s internal organs. The hallmark of the disorder is pain which is often out of proportion to the inciting event.

The pain is usually described as burning, but can also be sharp or dull and is sometimes referred to as deep bone pain. Other symptoms may include swelling, color change, temperature change, hair and nail growth changes and movement disorders.

A holistic approach to treatment is accomplished through the evaluation of the role of neurotransmitters and other body systems, including hormones, gut ecology, gluten intolerance, and vitamin deficiencies.

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers, so nervous system imbalances affect communication between the nervous, endocrine and immune systems, resulting in a wide range of health challenges. Neurotransmitter testing can untangle complex and recurring health conditions and get to the root problem underlying symptoms.

Dr. Philip Getson, is an osteopathic physician and pioneer in the field of ketamine infusion therapy for the treatment of CRPS/RSD. Contact him in Marlton, NJ, at 856-983-7246.

Happy Life, Healthy Heart

F

eelings matter when it comes to protecting a person’s physical health. Researchers at Boston’s Harvard School of Public Health reviewing more than 200 studies published in two major scientific databases found a direct correlation between positive psychological well-being and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. They concluded that positive feelings like optimism, life satisfaction and happiness are associated with the reduced risk, regardless of a person’s age, weight or socioeconomic or smoking status.

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

www.healthylehighvalley.com

ew can say no to a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night.

“Enjoy!” say Penn State researchers. They have found that a little bit of cocoa may be a powerful diet aid in helping to control inflammation and ameliorate related diseases, including diabetes. Numerous current studies link obesity to inflammation in the body.

Cocoa, although a common ingredient of chocolate, by itself has lowcalorie, low-fat and high-fiber content.

The researchers fed laboratory mice the human equivalent of 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder—about four or five cups of hot cocoa—along with a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. The control group ate the same diet without the cocoa.

Lead researcher Joshua Lambert, Penn State associate professor of food science, says the study results surprised the team, which did not expect the “dramatic reduction of inflammation and fatty liver disease” associated with obesity. Although the animals lost no weight, the cocoa powder supplement reduced liver triglycerides by 32 percent and plasma insulin levels by 27 percent, indicating it might be a powerful obesity-fighting tool.

But there is a catch: Adding sugar, an inflammatory substance in itself, to healthy cocoa will likely neutralize the benefits. Try stevia as a sweetener instead; it’s been used for decades to lower blood sugar.

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

Genuinely Greenwashed Six Ploys to Avoid in Eco-Purchases A report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping:

1

Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.

2 3 4

No Proof: Can a third party verify claims such as “organic” or “all-natural”?

Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemicalfree” or “no hormones added”.

Irrelevance: Claims that have no relationship to the product or might be made with any other product in the same category, such as [chlorofluorocarbon] CFC-free shaving gel.

5

Fibbing: A falsehood that can’t be backed up, such as “certified organic” for products for which no such certification exists.

6

Lesser of Two Evils: An attempt to put a green twist on a product that’s inherently harmful to humans and the environment, such as organic cigarettes.

Escalating Thirst

Endangered Western Tree Habitats A team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree.

They exposed the gel to an artificially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss.

Douglas firs and pine trees can repair this damage as frequently as every hour, says Katherine McCulloh, a plant ecophysiologist at Oregon State University. However, the bubbles are deadly for other species.

Today, the typical forest in the often thirsty American West contains an unnaturally high density of 112 to 172 trees per acre. Besides intercepting rain and snow that would otherwise enter the groundwater supply, such an overabundance threatens native species. “Deprived of [the effect of] low-intensity, naturally occurring fires, aspen, lupine, sequoia and fireweed can’t reproduce,” notes Jamie Workman, of the Environmental Defense Fund. “Deer lose edge habitat. Threatened owls and raptors can’t navigate through increasingly dense thickets.” Workman argues that thinning out small trees is the answer.

Contributing source: Utne.com

natural awakenings

December 2013

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Tagging Toxins

Intuitive Generosity

Online Database Identifies Safe Products

SafeMarkets.org offers a new clearinghouse of information gathered by advocates investigating toxic chemicals in food, baby products, toys, furniture, construction materials and other consumer goods. Families, municipalities, builders and businesses can use it to identify potentially harmful products and find safer alternatives.

Hosted by the Workgroup for Safe Markets (WSM), it’s a one-stop shop to provide information for consumers, retailers and manufacturers that are demanding safer products, says Beverley Thorpe, a WSM co-leader and consulting codirector for Clean Production Action.

Mia Davis, vice president of health and safety at Beautycounter, who is expecting her first child, sees it as a resource for parents to find a full complement of safe products for their families. “More than ever,” she says, “people understand how important it is to shop with companies they trust and to support businesses working to create truly safe products.”

Spontaneity Sparks Altruism

What makes people put “we” ahead of “me”?

To find out, a group of Harvard University researchers enrolled thousands of people to play a “public good” game in which subjects were divided into small groups, given some money and the choice to keep it or contribute it to a common pool that would grow and benefit the entire group. Researchers discovered that those that made their decisions quickly were more likely to contribute to the common good.

Taking it a step further, the researchers applied time pressure to the decision-making process. They then found that those faced with making a quick decision most often chose the “we” option, while those that spent more time deliberating ended up giving less money to the group kitty.

The Massachusetts research team, which tested thousands of online worldwide participants, concluded that spontaneity and intuition guide people into rapid acts of kindness.

Sustainable Solutions

Competition Launched to Measure Ocean Acidification As part of their mission of “making the impossible possible,” organizers of the XPrize, a global leader in incentivized competitions, have launched the $2 million Wendy Schmidt Ocean Health XPrize contest. Schmidt is president of the Schmidt Family Foundation, which strives to advance the development of clean energy and support wiser use of natural resources.

The program aims to spur innovators to transform our understanding of ocean acidification—a grave problem associated with the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide—via breakthroughs in ocean pH-sensing technologies designed to monitor and sustain ocean health.

For information and to register, visit xprize.org or Facebook.com/xprize.

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

www.healthylehighvalley.com

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ecotip Family Games Generate Goodwill All Year Fun family games based on cards, trivia and charades are quintessential holiday activities.

Now a new generation of games adds fresh dimensions of interest and goodwill. Online games—some are free—extend good tidings to people around the world, as well as our environment. Santa is thrilled.

Eco games galore: From determining our family’s carbon footprint to making ethical decisions as a business leader or learning how to help child populations vulnerable to pneumonia, EcoGamer. org is a gateway to enriching experiences. More than 20 entertaining websites employ informative, eco-related calculations, games and quizzes.

Assist African farmers: Heighten awareness and empathy by experiencing on a virtual basis the immense challenges of life on an African farm, including dealing with disease, drought, a lack of resources and war, at 3rdWorldFarmer.com/About. html. Free trials are available, plus links to international nonprofit organizations and relief groups.

Become a citizen scientist: At FilamentGames.com/projects/citizen-science, players travel back in time to investigate how a lake became polluted and what can be done today to protect our waterways. Developed by the National Science Foundation, in partnership with the University of Wisconsin, it illustrates business, lifestyle and social factors that can harm the environment.

Learn and feed: FreeRice.com allows players to automatically help feed hungry people with rice donations through the United Nations World Food Program. Players select from specific subjects: art, chemistry, geography, English, other languages and math. Each correct answer donates 10 grains of rice as participants watch the contents of a virtual bowl gradually fill.

Tabletop games: Bioviva (Bioviva.com), Destruct 3 (UncleSkunkleToys.com), ReThink: The Eco Design Game (PlayReThink.com), Xeko (Xeko.com) and Endango (search Amazon.com) are all new takes on the traditional pastime of board games.

Some are made of recycled materials, to boot.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

15

wisewords

Spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal

Humanity’s Eternal Quest Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

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forcing these individuals into what Tolle describes as an intense awareness that there is only the present moment, with no more future to escape into mentally. The result is a lot less suffering.

“That is the real spiritual awakening, when something emerges from within you that is deeper than who you thought you were,” says Tolle. “So, the person is still there, but one could almost say that something more powerful shines through the person.”

The good news, according to Tolle, is that in order to experience this awakening, “You don’t have to wait for the diagnosis by the doctor or to be put in prison… nor do you have to do 30,000 hours of meditation or live in an ashram for 20 years. Once you get a glimpse of it, you can invite it into your daily life.”

For a growing number of people, it’s this understanding of the always present “spiritual you” shining through that has led to significant improvements in their lives, not the least of which is better health. This would seem to indicate that these kinds of spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but decidedly practical.

“Spirituality and religion belong in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre photo by David Ellingsen

T

o listen to Eckhart Tolle is to be reminded that anything is possible— for anyone.

We’re not talking about living a life of leisure, filled with expensive cars, beach homes and extravagant vacations, but an experience brimming with the kind of spiritual insights that make this life not only worth living, but decidedly more fulfilling.

The problem is that when people hear the words “spiritual insight”, there’s often an assumption that it’s about something too ethereal to be practical or too elusive to be achieved in this lifetime.

This is exactly the point that Tolle, one of the world’s most well-known spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed during a talk earlier this year at California’s Stanford University.

“Some people awaken spiritually without ever coming into contact with any meditation technique or any spiritual teaching,” he said. “They may awaken simply because they can’t stand the suffering anymore.”

He went on to cite examples of those that have either been told they have a short time to live or have been given an exceptionally long prison sentence. In both cases, any thought of a future has been effectively dashed,

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or elusive, but decidedly practical.

Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern Cross University, in a study published in the Journal of the Australian TraditionalMedicine Society. “They are determinants of health and they are factors in recovery, well-being and longevity.”

So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable, more effective than that?

“Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimension’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we retranslate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’”

“And then Jesus said—when they asked him, ‘Where is the kingdom of heaven and when is it going to come?’— he said, ‘The kingdom of heaven does not come with signs to be perceived. You cannot say, ah, it’s over there or look, it’s over there, for I tell you the kingdom of heaven is within you.’”

How comforting it is to be reminded that the proverbial “kingdom of heaven” we’ve been hearing about for at least two millennia—this “dimension of spaciousness”, or what might be characterized as the understanding of our true spiritual identity—is “within you.” It’s within us all, here and now.

All that remains is the willingness— and the humility—to put this insight into practice.

Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Los Altos, CA, whose articles on the link between spiritual consciousness and health appear regularly in national online publications. Connect at norcalcs.org.

inspiration with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. As a result, many developed illnesses apparently related to the bitterness and resentment they carried.

BE HAPPY RIGHT NOW The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. Many were disappointed they had not truly realized the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks, and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip away.

Many deeply regretted not giving important friendships the time and effort that they deserved.

by Bronnie Ware

P

eople grow a lot when faced with their own mortality. As a palliative caregiver for many years, I learned never to underestimate someone’s capacity for personal growth. After wrestling with a variety of intense emotions, every patient I saw found their peace before they departed.

When questioned about regrets or what they would have done differently, five themes emerged.

I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled.

Most people had not honored even half of their dreams and died knowing that it was due to choices they had made or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize until they no longer have it.

I wish I hadn’t worked so hard. Every male patient that I nursed felt they had missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. They deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

Women also spoke of this regret, but because most were from an older generation, many had not been breadwinners.

I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace

I wish that I had let myself be happier.

Many did not understand until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits.

The so-called comfort of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others and to themselves that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh with gusto and cultivate some silliness in their life.

Bronnie Ware is the author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing, a memoir of how people she cared for changed the way she lives. She blogs at InspirationAndChai.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

17

greenliving

Go Plastic-Free Game On: Ways to Shrink Our Footprint

by Randy Kambic

State University’s Energy & Sustainability Office, in Ogden, Utah. Plus, unrecycled plastic materials can enter waterways and kill marine life through ingestion or entanglement (ocean garbage patches are major examples).

Reducing our own plastic footprint can both safeguard family health and prove that we are serious about pressuring industry to produce less of it.

The key, according to Terry, is not to be intimidated or overwhelmed by plastic overload, but persist in taking baby steps (see MyPlasticFreeLife.com).

How to Begin

B

esides the customary food and product packaging, plus store bags, consider all the nooks and crannies of our lives that plastic now permeates: eating utensils; baby and pet toys; computer keyboards and accessories; pens; eyeglasses; athletic footwear; backpacks; lighters; beauty care and pill containers; household cleaning bottles; ice cube trays; shaving razors; tool handles; hairbrushes and toothbrushes—even some facial scrubs, shampoos and chewing gum.

Beth Terry, author of Plastic Free: How I Kicked the Habit and How You Can Too, points out compelling reasons to take personal action. In 2007, this Oakland, California, resident saw a photo of the decomposed carcass of a Laysan albatross riddled with plastic bits in an article on water pollution.

“For several seconds, I could not breathe,” she writes. This seminal moment led her to further research, by which she realized, “This plague of plastic chemicals is harming everyone, and especially the most vulnerable members of our planet—children and animals—and that is both unacceptable and unfair.” She’s been working on going plastic-free ever since.

“I made a game of it; a fun, creative, step-by-step challenge,” she advises. “You can’t go through the house and think you can get rid of all plastic immediately. As items get used up, you’ll find alternatives.” Once we are in the habit of staying alert to the plastic

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scourge, we’ll naturally spot opportunities for healthy change-ups.

Science Sounds the Alarm

In 2011, Harvard School of Public Health researchers made news by discovering that consuming one serving of canned food daily for five days led to significantly elevated urinary levels of bisphenol-A (BPA). This plastic and epoxy resin ingredient is found in the liners of many food and drink cans and sometimes in plastic bottles. It’s known to be a serious endocrine disrupter.

Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, altered functions of reproductive organs and other ailments have been linked to high BPA levels in several studies, including one cited in Endocrine Reviews journal. The Manchester Guardian also recently reported that the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety has stated that an unborn baby’s exposure to BPA through the mother could be linked to many health problems, including breast cancer later in life.

When plastics are subjected to stress—like heat, light or age—undisclosed additives used in their production for strength, flexibility and color can leach out and even contaminate lab results, as the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry found.

Such chemicals can migrate into our digestive systems and through our skin; they can also off-gas into the air, according to a recent study by Weber

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As a starting point, Terry notes that plastic enables the long-distance food distribution system. Reducing food miles associated with our meals helps cut down on the use of plastic. In the kitchen, use airtight stainless steel containers or glass jars or simply refrigerate a bowl of food with a saucer on top to hold leftovers for the next day. Compost food waste. Reuse empty plastic food bags and line garbage cans with old newspapers instead of plastic bags.

Terry cautions, “People assume everything that carries the triangular symbol is accepted at all recycling facilities. This is not the case. What isn’t accepted is landfilled or even incinerated.” Also, according to the city of Oakland’s Waste Management Department, she learned that “Much of what we put out for recycling goes to China, and their processing standards are not as strong as ours.”

In Plastic Free, the author provides scores of tips for borrowing, renting and sharing products; buying used plastic equipment if it’s a necessity; and avoiding disposable packaging and paper products. Areas for improvement range from personal care and household cleaning products to bags, bottles, grocery shopping, takeout food, portable leftovers and lunches, plus durable goods. Activists will move on to also participate in area cleanups, donate to green organizations and write their legislators.

Randy Kambic, a freelance editor and writer in Estero, Florida, regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings.

eventspotlight

Himalayan Institute and Moondog Yoga Present

Teacher Training

by Beth Davis

T

he Himalayan Institute is offering a 200-hour Teacher Training Program beginning January 10, 2014. Certification classes will be held one weekend per month, with July and August off, through December 2014. Moondog Yoga, a fresh, upbeat yoga studio in the heart of Quakertown, will present the program. Owner and instructor June Hunt received her 200 teacher training certification through the Himalayan Institute Teacher Association and is currently pursing her 500-hour certification.

Participants will learn how to practice and teach all major classes of asanas, including the principles of structural and energetic alignment; anatomy and physiology for yoga teachers; yoga model of the subtle (pranic) body; structuring and sequencing classes; and will practice teaching in small and large groups. Next, they will learn how to practice and teach pranayama, pratyahara and meditation through systematic breath training; pranayama practice and teaching; relaxation techniques and teaching; and theory and practice of meditation. Finally, students will learn to understand and apply yoga philosophy and yoga psychology by studying the Yoga Sutra, the Bhagavad Gita, the yogic model and functions of the mind and the Introduction to Sanskrit.

To take part in the training program, participants must be at least 18 years of age and have at least two years prior experience in hatha yoga and a regular practice.

A leader in the field of yoga, meditation, spirituality and holistic health, the Himalayan Institute is a nonprofit, international organization dedicated to serving humanity through educational, spiritual and humanitarian programs.

The Institute and its varied activities and programs exemplify

the spiritual heritage of mankind that unites East and West, spirituality and science and ancient wisdom and modern technology. Its peaceful wooded 400-acre campus in the rolling hills of the Poconos in northeastern Pennsylvania is a refuge from the stress of today’s hectic world and offers a place to rest, reflect and renew.

Dedicated to a tradition of excellence in teaching the Institute offers yoga teachers comprehensive and systematic training in classical yoga. The Institute teaches yogic techniques for body, breath, mind and spirit in 200-hour and 500-hour certification programs. Programs include meditation, asana instruction, training in pranayama and relaxation techniques, therapeutic yoga and yoga philosophy and psychology. It is a registered school with Yoga Alliance, meeting the requirement for national registration at both the 200- and 500-hour levels.

Through its internationally acclaimed Yoga International website (YogaInternational.com) and educational platform, individuals can connect with practitioners of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. Beginners and seasoned pros will find immersive residential and self-transformation program, fulllength online seminars, spiritual excursions, correspondence courses, inspiring articles, healthy recipes and more. The art of joyful living lies at the core of the Institute’s teachings. In fact, all of the programs lead to one common goal: living a peaceful and happy life.

Moondog Yoga, is located at 44 Front Street, Quakertown. For more information including cost and financing options, call 267-374-4046 or visit MoondogYoga.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

19

Near Death Experiences Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

T

he advice that the White Queen gave to young Alice in Lewis Carroll’s Through the LookingGlass might be some of the best to offer non-believers and skeptics that question the credibility of near-death experiences (NDE). When Alice protests, “One can’t believe impossible things,” the White Queen famously retorts, “I daresay you haven’t had much practice.

When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

Glimpses of Grace

The majority of physicians and clinical researchers in the medical community continue to consider NDEs as impossible and merely pure fantasies generated by a surge of electrical activity as a dying brain runs out of oxygen. However, according to a Gallup poll, the 8 million Americans whose transcendental NDEs freed their consciousness to leave the body and enter into a wondrous reality that exists completely free of physicality, believe them to be real, meaningful 20

Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

I was overwhelmed by the realization that God isn’t a being, but a state of being… and I am that state of being… pure consciousness. ~ Anita Moorjani and life-changing experiences.

Recently, the renowned NDE narratives of Anita Moorjani, author of Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer to Near Death, to True Healing, and Dr. Eben Alexander, author of Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, have sparked fresh public interest in NDEs, a word coined by Raymond Moody, Ph.D., in his 1975 classic, Life After Life.

Moody, a psychiatrist and professor of philosophy who has spent nearly 50 years investigating what happens when people die, has interviewed thousands of individuals that have personally experienced an NDE.

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“Over the past 20 years there have been enormous strides in resuscitation technology. Defibrillators and public access defibrillation programs, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are major factors that allow modern medicine to bring people back from a state that 100 years ago would have been labeled death,” observes Moody.

Through his research, he has identified numerous common elements that occur in NDEs—an out-of-body experience, the sensation of traveling through a tunnel, encountering a bright light (usually interpreted as God, Jesus or an angel), communicating with deceased relatives, feeling emotions such as profound peace, well-being and love, plus a flood of knowledge about life and the nature of the universe. Perhaps the most significant element he reports is the supremely conscious and superbly blissful state that exists beyond both limitations of the senses and intellect and the confines of space and time— the pure conscious form of each one’s truly real Self.

Life as Love

Rushed to the hospital in a coma, Moorjani, whose body had been devoured for four years by cancer of the lymphatic system, describes the real self that she discovered during her NDE. “There I was, without my body or any physical traits, yet my pure essence continued to exist. It was not a reduced element of my whole self; in fact, it felt far greater and more intense and expansive than my physical being.

“I felt eternal, as if I’d always existed and always would, without a beginning or end. I was filled with the knowledge that I was simply magnificent,” explains Moorjani, whose cancer completely disappeared within five weeks after her release from the hospital.

“Not only did I come back with a clean slate, I brought back one of my biggest lessons—to love myself and be an instrument of love. I also returned to life here with a sense of purpose—to fearlessly be as authentically me as I can be. This means,” she clarifies, “that in whatever I do, I am acting from my sense of passion and the sheer joy of doing it.”

During Alexander’s seven-day coma in a hospital, brought about by antibiotic-resistant E. coli meningitis that attacked his brain, he left his mortal identity behind. “My brain wasn’t working at all,” he relates. “My entire neo-cortex, the part that makes us human, was entirely shut down. I had no language, emotions, logic or memories of who I was. Such an empty slate granted me full access to the true cosmic being that I am, that we all are,” says Alexander. He further recalls that as his NDE unfolded, it occurred to him that he was being granted a grand overview of the invisible side of existence.

He also had a lovely ethereal companion that floated along on a butterfly wing, telepathically teaching him to accept the universal truth that, “You are eternally loved and cherished, you have nothing to fear, and there is nothing you can do wrong.”

“If I had to boil the whole message down to just one word, it would be Love—the incomprehensibly glorious truth of truths that lives and breathes at the core of everything that

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness.” ~ Dr. Eben Alexander

exists or will ever exist. No remotely accurate understanding of who we are and what we are can be achieved by anyone who does not know it and embody it in all their actions,” Alexander now understands.

Prior to his life-threatening illness, this neurosurgeon’s sophisticated medical training had led him to dismiss the possibility of NDEs. Today, he works at returning to his NDE state of oneness and unconditional love by using meditation and sacred acoustics, as well as quantum mechanics, to explore the nature of consciousness and higher brain function.

Like Moody, Alexander studies the ancient Greek philosophers Parmenides, Pythagoras and Plato, who took the notion of an afterlife seriously and questioned “what” survives bodily death. Alexander’s consequent nonprofit organization, Eternea, fosters cooperation between science and spirituality by sponsoring research and education about spiritually transformative experiences and holistic consciousness beyond conventional definitions.

“I had to learn a whole lot more about consciousness than I had to know about neuroscience,” quips Alexander, who now believes that the brain blocks access to knowledge of higher worlds.

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness. That it is, instead, a kind of reducing valve or filter that dumbs down consciousness for the duration of our human experience.

“Neuroscience can’t give you the first sentence about how the physical brain creates consciousness,” he states, while many are finding how science and spirituality strengthen each other.

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natural awakenings

December 2013

21

At age 37, a blood vessel exploded in the left hemisphere of Jill Bolte Taylor’s brain. A Ph.D. Harvard-trained scientist specializing in anatomy of the brain, she was fascinated to observe the breakdown of her brain-related functions.

As described in her book, My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey, she became the witness to her stroke, which initially left her unable to talk, walk, read, write or remember anything prior to that occurrence.

As her left brain shut down, Taylor lost her ability to process all language; with her mind suspended in newfound silence, she experienced an unprecedented sense of deep peace. She also experienced an inability to visually distinguish edges and boundaries between herself and the outer world.

Absent conventional orientation, “I could actually see that my skin was not my physical boundary.

“As a result of such a glorious state of blissful realization that I am—as we all are—connected to everything and everyone around us, I no longer see myself as a single, solid entity, separate from other human beings,” advises Taylor. “Although my left mind still thinks of me as a fragile individual, capable of losing my life, my right mind realizes the essence of my being as eternal life.” She now understands that she is part of the cosmic flow of energy, which she characterizes as a tranquil sea of euphoria.

Present Possibility

In The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth, author Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., suggests that each of us is a part of the universe seeking and finding itself. Could it be that without the mental filter and self-limiting beliefs, we are free to consciously know our higher state of wholeness and the truth of our magnificence?

Upwards of 8 million people that have experienced their own NDE are trending the world toward a tipping point into the comforting awareness that anything is possible.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe.com for the recorded interviews.

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INSIGHTS WORTH SHARING

by Linda Sechrist

A

sked why she just my own en“I’ve become focused thought she ergy manifesting had cancer, on seeing the perfection of as cancer, because Anita Moorjani, my fears weren’t author of Dying to allowing me to exlife in this moment.”

Be Me, sums up press myself as the her answer in one word: Fear. “I was magnificent force I was meant to be,” killing myself, and cancer saved me,” advises Moorjani. says Moorjani, whose book documents She hopes that her presentaher near-death experience (NDE) and tions to medical professionals and the higher realm she encountered public speaking will influence how when her body shut down. Allowed the health profession views cancer to identify with her true magnificence, and other diseases and illnesses. undistorted by the fear generated “Treatment needs to be about more by her own lifelong self-judgment, than medicine, because so much of self-criticism, worry and lack of selfdisease has to do with our emotions,” forgiveness, she returned with a vital, she imparts, “especially the ones we heartfelt message. direct toward ourselves.”

“Everyone is an amazing, mag Through this life-enhancing expenificent being, with great capacity for rience, Moorjani came to understand health, happiness and joy. Although why she owes it to herself, everyone we’ve been conditioned to believe that she meets and life itself to always exwe need to pursue success and learn press her own unique essence. “Trying to improve ourselves to be happy, such to be anything or anyone else doesn’t steps are unnecessary, because we make me better—it just deprives me already are all we are trying to attain,” of my true self and keeps me from she says. interacting authentically with others,”

“I’d spent a lifetime feeling she explains.

Moorjani now knows that all life inadequate, beating myself up for not meeting my own expectations,” in the universe is one and our core she continues. Through the clarity is love. “I was overwhelmed by the of dwelling in the NDE realm, she realization that God isn’t a being, but understood that the cancer wasn’t a state of being… and I am that state a punishment for anything. “It was of being… pure consciousness.”

www.healthylehighvalley.com

Reflect on Water

‘Tis the Season to Be Wise A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

by Lane Vail

F

or California acupuncturist Daniela Freda, counseling patients that grapple with low energy during winter is routine. “They’re often concerned something is wrong, since our society expects us to feel the same way year-round,” says Freda, who maintains a private practice in San Francisco. “But in fact,” she adds, “everything is right.”

According to a study published in Psychiatry Research, only 4 to 6 percent of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by a predictable seasonal pattern of major depressive or bipolar disorder.

For the vast majority of the population, a slight seasonal variance in mood and behavior is normal, confirms Kathryn Roecklein, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and prominent SAD researcher at Pennsylvania’s University of Pittsburg.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), like Freda, view decreased energy in nature’s wintertime as a reflection of the season’s energy. In this philosophy, rising (yang) and falling (yin) energies cycle as the seasons turn. Winter is governed by quiet, slow, introspective and creative yin energy. As winter yields to spring, the bright, fast, expansive and extroverted yang energy gains momentum to peak in summer.

“Nature expresses universal energies in a big way,” says research psychologist and mind-body medicine expert Joseph Cardillo, Ph.D., author of The Five Seasons. Who can ignore a blossoming spring or an abundant autumn?

“Those same energetic cycles,” says Cardillo, “are mirrored in the microcosmic human body and human experience.”

Chill Out

Although the December 21 winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, temperatures in most of the U.S. continue to fall through February.

Cardillo advises embracing winter’s chill because it diverts our attention from daily activities so that we pause to consider what’s important. “The effect is similar to splashing cold water on our face,” he remarks.

As the cold draws animals into hibernation and plants into dormancy, it also beckons us to enjoy extra sleep, notes Freda, as we follow the sun’s path: Earlier to bed; later to rise. She encourages her clients to incorporate restorative activities into daily routines.

“Intentionally set aside time to connect with the breath and quiet the mind,” she counsels. Try gentle yoga or t’ai chi, listen to relaxing music, curl up with a cozy book or take nature walks, flush with fresh sensory experiences.

Cardillo explains that slowing down naturally creates space for the contemplative and creative qualities of yin energy to rise. Meditating, visualizing and journaling promote access to one’s inner wisdom. “Winter is a perfect time to examine the myriad ideas you’ve dreamt up and assemble them into a new you,” says Cardillo. “Now you are prepared to use the robust energy of spring to scatter those ideas abroad.”

In TCM, the element of water, symbolizing focus and purity, is closely associated with winter. Highly adaptable, water can be solid, liquid or formless vapor; it can flow over, under, around or through obstacles with ease; and it can be still and contained. Contemplating the power of water in any of its forms can help synchronize one’s consciousness with the season’s gifts.

“When your mind is unstuck and flowing like water, your dreams start becoming real to you, simply because you’re in the flow, the present moment,” observes Cardillo, who also authored Be Like Water. He suggests looking to water for guidance in creating solutions, sharpening focus or moving effortlessly on to the next step.

Find Balance

Freda points out that within the strong yin energy of winter, “There are yang moments, celebratory moments, to keep us going.” An imbalance can occur when the slowness of winter is completely counteracted by too much high-energy socializing, working or rushing through the day. “An excess of yang during the winter,” counsels Freda, “rather than a glimpse of it, can deplete us,” contributing to stress, fatigue and depression.

Conversely, for those with an already predominantly yin personality (quiet, introverted, low energy) that overindulge in the yin energy of winter, an attempt at restoration and quietude can lead to lethargy and isolation. “I see this clinically,” says Freda. “Instead of embracing a little extra rest and relaxation, some people become exhausted and lose their motivation altogether.

They become stuck in the yin.”

Cardillo recommends that such individuals engage in mood-brightening outdoor activities to help restore balance. Roecklein agrees, noting that SAD sufferers undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (which emphasizes positive thinking and beneficial behaviors) likewise are encouraged to participate in physical and social activities that bring joy and meaning.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.

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December 2013

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fitbody

Participating in friendly family competition is

Too Much Togetherness?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

G

iven family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly, holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University. Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern modality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter.

To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga workout. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treating family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook.

The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness. Yogic breathing patterns also are shown to lower resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intra-family disagreements or other stressors.

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For a quick, relaxing yoga routine, begin with a few breathing exercises before moving into a sun salutation—a sequence of full-body poses, or asanas, performed in a smooth, continuous flow. Begin standing, palms pressed together in the tadasana, or mountain, pose. Then move through a series of motions that sweep the arms over the head, expanding the chest, before dipping into downward dog and plank poses, which help increase flexibility and strength. End lying down in the shavasana, or resting, pose with eyes closed and let the quiet settle in.

Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up tension by pushing against a wall. Stand about three feet away, lean in and push. Position feet at an angle so that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor.

This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us to walk away feeling light and limber.

While some people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday

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healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later. family times, others may feel a bit anxious. For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try a cardiovascular workout like running, which German researchers published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue.

A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthening the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay.

Before heading for the door, those stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sedentary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor cardiovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pumping. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack during holiday loafing a chance to flex.

Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.

After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness.

For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hiking, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee.

Participating in friendly family competition is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brooklyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.

When the Student is Ready, the Teacher Shows Up

by Elizabeth Daniels

W

hen Helene Leonetti left corporate medicine after 50 years, she had some doubts that she, a longtime employee of a medical center, could make it on her own without the cocoon of protective chairmen of the many disciplines that surrounded her: obstetrics, gynecology, general surgery, oncology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology and psychiatry, to name but a few. Three years later, and her practice—focused on joining the best of conventional medicine and holistic treatment—is thriving.

Five months ago, a woman came to visit Leonetti who had developed severe pain in her neck, shoulders, arms and fingers—so severe that she needed to take Vicodin. A visit to her family doctor and endocrinologist gave her the diagnosis of polyarthritis rheumatic, and she was given prednisone, a potent anti-inflammatory medicine that affects our bones, our glucose metabolism, our emotions, our weight and our adrenal glands, which keep our immune state vibrant. Leonetti says it makes the pain better and is a wonderful bandage for one of the hundreds of diagnoses that we have with “no known cause and no known treatment,” other than cortisone and pain medicines.

“Not only did her patient receive no information on the many side effects of this potent medicine (she had to explore them online), but more importantly, she was given no guidance and help on what may have started the pain in the first place,” explains Leonetti. “However, this wellness warrior has had the courage to look at all aspects of her life and has made notable changes: she is back to regular exercise; she has begun purchasing her animal protein hormone/antibiotic free-range; and whenever possible, she buys and grows her vegetables organically, without harmful pesticides.” Plus, after a lifetime of soda, she is finally off it entirely and makes water her drink of choice. She also stopped taking Crestor (a statin drug) to lower cholesterol, which has been implicated in causing pain, weakness in joints and muscles, and inducing diabetes in women, in addition to causing aggressive behavior, depression, suicide and cancer.

Leonetti states that, “Courage and fearlessness are the qualities of a wellness warrior.” That means choosing doctors that listen; those that incorporate complementary modalities and natural healing rather than always choosing drugs for chronic life issues.” The last piece of the patient’s journey was the most difficult: learning to understand that every thought and every word, as well as every behavior, creates a molecule in the body and has identical effects on cell tissue as if we had an accident, a heart attack or a stroke.

“Harboring, often unconsciously, stinkin’ thinkin’—envy, anger, resentment, hurt, jealousy, non-forgiveness—of self

and others is responsible for dis-ease that no doctor can touch; only the doctor within—the one whose pharmacy produces healing hormones, such as oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine,” she adds. “On the other hand, negative emotions produce inflammatory cytokines and pain-causing prostaglandins.”

In fact, the last thing Leonetti told the patient before she left was get back to lovemaking with her beloved. This generates happy hormones, as well as morphine-like painkillers, and bathes the immune state in healing.

Leonetti encourages patients and physicians to develop a partnership toward wellness. That includes teaching patients how to prevent the chronic diseases for which they fall victim.

Dr. Helene Leonetti is located at 3330 Hamilton Blvd, Allentown. For more information, all 484-707-8927 or visit HelenebLeonettimd.com.

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healingways

Get Good

by Amber Lanier Nagle

Establish a schedule. For regular ZZZs, “Stick to a regular schedule; go to sleep and wake up at around the same times each day, even on weekends,” urges Drobnich. “Our bodies are on a 24-hour clock. Consistency strengthens our biological rhythm and helps us sleep soundly.”

ZZ

Zs

You lie awake at night, tossing and turning, your mind racing.

Some nights you have trouble falling asleep; on others, you wake in the wee hours and can’t return to sleep. If you aren’t getting a full night of restful slumber, you’re not alone.

A

ccording to the National Sleep Awareness Roundtable, more than 50 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems, while 20 million more report spells of insomnia related to heightened anxiety, stress and depression. Whatever the cause, lack of sleep can be simply maddening.

Darrel Drobnich, chief program officer of the roundtable, affirms that sleep is just as important as diet and exercise to our overall wellness.

When we sleep soundly, our bodies and minds perform more efficiently.

When we don’t, we lose the ability to concentrate on daily tasks, struggle with moodiness, experience problems with memory and fail to manage stress gracefully. More, sleep scientists worldwide are evaluating the correlation between lack of sleep and heart disease, obesity, diabetes, immune system dysfunction and other serious illnesses.

According to the American Sleep Association, the amount of sleep needed depends on the individual.

On average, adults require seven to eight hours a day; infants, 16 hours; teenagers, nine.

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The sleepless often seek relief with over-the-counter and prescription medications, but several more natural sleep-inducing habits may be just as effective at facilitating better shuteye.

Before reaching for a sleep aid, try these suggestions:

Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Professionals agree that avoiding these substances for at least four hours before bedtime helps settle the body for a good night’s rest. Caffeine, found in coffee, teas, sodas and chocolate, is a stimulant that works to keep us awake or interrupt sleep later in the night. Although alcohol, a depressant, might make falling asleep easier, it can disrupt deep sleep later in the cycle. While tobacco products tend to make us feel relaxed, the nicotine they contain acts as a powerful stimulant that increases heart rate, blood pressure and breathing, making the smoker feel more alert, not ready for sleep.

Create the perfect sleep environment. “Make your bedroom a sleep sanctuary,” counsels Drobnich. “Make sure that it is conducive to sleep and nothing else.” Keep the bedroom at an

Natural Ways to Stop Snoring About 90 million Americans snore, according to a National Family Opinion poll. Supporting studies show that most snorers are men, but any snoring can disrupt one’s own and loved ones’ sleep. Researchers at Cleveland’s Louis Stokes Veterans Affairs Medical Center sleep disorders program report that, while the average volume of snorers is 60 decibels, loud snorers can reach 80 decibels.

According to AirportNoiseLaw.org, that’s the same decibel level as a garbage disposal or freight train, which has the potential to cause hearing damage. Short of surgery that may tighten throat tissues to reduce the sound, try these alternatives.

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• Sleep on your side. Forego a pillow to flatten out the neck.

• Stay fit. Overweight is a common denominator among snorers.

• Axe the alcohol and sedatives.

Relaxants cause throat muscles to lose tone.

• Snuff out smoking. It compromises the respiratory track.

• Try acupuncture or acupressure.

Consult a licensed practitioner.

• Avoid food triggers. Dairy, wheat and sugar may produce excessive yeast in the body, which can inflame the throat.

optimal temperature setting—neither too hot nor too cold. Use a comfortable mattress and pillow. Also, ensure that the room is as dark and quiet as possible. In homes and neighborhoods with lots of outside noise, try to block out sounds with a fan, white-noise machine or recordings of ocean waves or rain.

“People who have trouble falling or staying asleep also should avoid watching television, playing video games or working while in bed,” advises Drobnich. “You don’t want your brain to associate the bedroom with anything other than sleep and relaxation.”

Wind down. Drobnich also recommends establishing a relaxing bedtime routine to wind down in the hour before going to bed: soak in a warm bath, read a book, meditate or listen to calming music. By doing the same things each night and avoiding stimulation, we signal the body that it is time to rest.

Avoid eating and drinking near bedtime. A full stomach may keep some people awake at night, so don’t eat a heavy meal within two to three hours of bedtime (this also supports weight loss).

To prevent sleep from being interrupted by a trip to the bathroom, don’t drink fluids after 8 p.m.

Exercise regularly. Studies show that regular exercise can improve nighttime rest, but try to finish the day’s workout at least five hours before bedtime.

Fight the urge to nap. If you already have trouble sleeping at night, a nap may aggravate the problem. If a nap is absolutely necessary, limit it to a brief, 15-to-20-minute snooze.

If these sleep-inducing techniques fail to solve sleeplessness, experts advise that we see a health care professional. The problem may involve sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome or a more serious health problem.

Remember that almost everyone has trouble sleeping from time to time, but good habits set the stage for a restful night’s sleep. By making sleep a wellness priority, you will get back to getting some good ZZZs. natural awakenings

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GREEN Merry Making Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

Gift Giving

T

hroughout the year, Santa’s good girls and boys of all ages make every effort to buy only what’s needed, plus recycle, reuse and repurpose. Then the holidays hit and discipline often gives way to indulgences.

The season seems consumed by uptempo decorating, feasting, shopping, gift-giving and merrymaking at any cost. Yet, creative green living experts show us how easy it is to tweak timehonored family traditions to align with the green way we wish to live and feel even more satisfied with festivities.

Decking the Halls

For Danny Seo, author of Upcycling Celebrations: A Use-What-You-Have Guide to Decorating, Gift-Giving & Entertaining, “Upcycling is basically a form of recycling that elevates something to a better level than before.” Based in New York City and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Seo always has an eye out for green possibilities. “Opt for vintage pieces and re-imagine them in new and interesting ways,” he advises. For example, he likes to upcycle a vintage glass cake stand with a collection of bright ornaments for a unique holiday focal point.

Michele Johansen, a lifestyle writer in Bellevue, Washington, suggests bringing in the outdoors. Instead of decorating the tree with tinsel and the home with plastic faux greenery, she suggests stringing popcorn and cranberries on the tree and decking the halls with fresh wreaths and garlands 28

Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

match settings of plates, glasses, linens and cutlery. “Use the real thing,” Eisenberg recommends, “and recruit guests to help wash up afterwards.” She recalls that while growing up, her mother supplemented her silverware with grandmother’s for large holiday dinners.

Save your own energy (and sanity) by asking family and friends to bring an appetizer, side dish or dessert. The hostess can assign a dish and corresponding recipe or use a potluck approach, says Eisenberg. Leftovers go home in non-plastic, reusable containers.

accented with boughs of holly. “Local nurseries are good sources for holiday décor that you can later mulch or put in yard waste bins,” she says. “The smells are much more authentic and festive.”

Save energy by using LED lights whenever possible, suggests Sheryl Eisenberg, a writer for the National Resources Defense Council. Plug lights and electronics into a power strip, and then unplug it when not in use to save “ghost” energy pulled by electronics that are plugged in, but not activated.

Buy a live tree to later plant or recycle, Seo suggests. This supports regional Christmas tree farmers while retaining the integrity of local forests.

Many communities offer recycling of holiday trees to provide mulch or habitat for aquatic life in local lakes.

Keeping the Feast

Organize a cookie exchange to get together and save time and energy on holiday baking, suggests Sara Novak, a food policy and health writer at SereneKitchen.com, from Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. Generally, a hostess asks guests to bring several dozen of their favorite cookies. Once gathered, attendees share the treats and recipes, taking home several of each variety.

To “green it up”, Novak recommends emailing the recipes rather than printing them, encouraging invitees to use fresh and local ingredients and bring favorite reusable containers from home, like a colorful, time-honored cookie tin.

For the holiday table, mix and

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Many families enjoy giving traditional gifts to children at certain ages, like dollhouses or train sets. Re-imagine these and, when possible, buy local to save energy and support area businesses, suggests Eisenberg.

Cintia Gonzalez, an Australian mom, crafted a dollhouse from an old suitcase, inventively using black chalkboard paint for the exterior, wooden shelves as floors and fast food ketchup cups as lampshades (Tinyurl.com/ UpcycleDollhouse). Another mom transformed a discarded coffee table into a painted train table for her boys.

Upcycle paint chip cards into colorful gift tags, suggests Seo. Plus, use gift wraps that become part of the gift itself, such as placemats swaddling a bottle of wine, fabric to encase quilting supplies or sheet music enveloping concert tickets.

As a general rule, “Give experiences, not gifts,” counsels Eisenberg.

“Giving loved ones experiences reduces wrapping paper, ribbon and packaging and is an easy way to be a bit more personal over the holidays.

Your teenage niece may love a spa day, complete with hair styling, while your favorite aunt and uncle may be thrilled to attend a local wine tasting. If you think a young child can tolerate a few less presents in exchange for a pass to an ice show or dance class, go for it.”

“It’s the holiday experience that counts,” counsels Seo. “It’s what makes memories.”

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer from Kansas City, MO.

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Peace on Our Plates Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

A

s Earth’s population grows to a projected 9 billion people by 2050, can our global community keep eating flesh like we’ve been doing for centuries? No, according to a 2010 report by the United Nations

Environment Programme, an international panel of sustainable resource management experts. Examining the food demands of a growing population and associated environmental and sustainability issues, Assessing the

Healthy World Shopping List

by Madeleine W. Tuttle Allow an hour to explore and buy the following basics to stock the pantry, always choosing organic and foods that have no genetically modified (GM or GMO) ingredients. In certain Asian traditions, only the most enlightened members of a monks’ community are allowed to cook food for their fellows, with good reason. The more love that goes into meal preparation, the better the outcome will be.

Grains: rice, millet, whole-grain spaghetti or angel hair noodles, couscous, quinoa, buckwheat, wild rice, cornmeal Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

Proteins: tofu, tempeh, seitan; lentils, split peas, beans and other legumes Dried herbs: peppermint, Italian seasoning mix, basil, dill, cilantro, paprika, cayenne, curry, turmeric, pepper, nutmeg powder, cumin seeds, rosemary, nutritional yeast Fruits: citrus, apples, bananas, grapes, berries, avocado and others

Staples

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Veggies: (in season) pumpkin/squash, leek, onions, garlic, kale, cabbage, ginger, horseradish, broccoli, peppers, mushrooms, carrots, lettuce/greens, sprouts, edamame, spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, avocado, cilantro, peas (fresh or frozen), yams, potatoes

Additions Meat analogs: Gardein, Tofurkey,

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photo by Stephen Blancett

Environmental Impacts of Consumption and Production recommends “substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products.”

Making the case for a holistic view, Will Tuttle, Ph.D., suggests in World Peace Diet: Eating for Spiritual Health and Social Harmony that we start to see the connections between our food choices and the health and well-being of ourselves, our families, communities and the world.

Web of Understanding

At the center of the web of life is the food we all share to sustain our bodies. Tuttle insists that we celebrate this and regard each meal as a feast. “Food preparation is the only art that allows us to literally incorporate what we create.

It is also the only art that fully involves all five senses,” he says. We honor this wonderful activity most by sharing our cooking efforts with others, blessing the food and eating mindfully.

The problem at the center of life, maintains Tuttle, is that we involve animals in our food chain, an act that “introduces suffering, whether physical, mental or emotional.” This is a truth we try to hide from, what he calls the

Field Roast, Beyond Meat, Sun Burger, Fakin’ Bacon Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts; raisins; flax, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds Oils and sauces: tahini (sesame butter), Vegenaise dressing, tomato sauce, olive oil, coconut oil, tamari or shoyu Sweeteners: Sucanat, stevia, coconut sugar, rice syrup, date syrup/sugar, agave nectar Dairy: plant-based milks (e.g., soy, rice, hemp, coconut, almond, oat, tapioca), cheeses, yogurts, and creams; and nut butters such as almond, cashew, and peanut butters and sesame tahini Others: spelt flour, Celtic salt, vanilla, cacao powder, shredded coconut

Tip: Cook whole-grain or spinach pasta, potatoes, rice or another recommended grain in a large quantity to store in the refrigerator for use in stir-fries, salads and other meals later in the week.

”cultural shadow”. “The worst examples include factory farming, but even the best methods ultimately involve killing other animals for food,” he says.

One of Tuttle’s more controversial claims is that the herding culture—raising, dominating, selling, killing and owning animals—sets up a harmful physical, emotional and cultural dynamic, extolling domineering and aggressive behavior. “The herding culture requires male dominance and a mentality that might makes right,” observes Tuttle. “It also sees females as primarily breeders, not beings.” Based on contemporary research in anthropology, sociology and psychopathology, he maintains that the actions required

to both dominate animals and eat their meat can lead to more aggressive and violent behavior.

One recent study seems to support his claim. Dr. Neil Barnard, in his book, Foods That Fight Pain, remarks that, “Plant-based diets also help tame testosterone’s activity.” Barnard cites a Massachusetts male aging study of 1,552 men ages 40 to 70, which indicated that men eating more fruits and vegetables than meat were less domineering and aggressive, because the increased sex hormone-binding globulin produced by plants helps keep testosterone in check.

“If we continue the meat-centric way of eating, we’re going to continue

to have the problems that come with it,” says Tuttle. “The way forward is plant-based agriculture.”

Practicing a World Peace Diet The Tuttles shop for fresh, organic and non-GMO (genetically modified organism) foods and favor what they call “blueprint recipes”, that vary from day to day. Each outlines the makings of a dish and encourages cooks to be intuitive in how they fill in the details.

For a typical breakfast, for example, Tuttle and his wife, Madeleine, will make a green smoothie that includes kale, banana, apple, grapes, ground flax, chia seeds, cinnamon and fresh ginger. “It’s a flexible drink,” says Tuttle.

“We will swap out whatever organic fruits and vegetables we have so that we vary the flavor from time to time.”

For example, they might use parsley, spinach, or chard leaves in place of kale, or citrus in place of grapes.

Lunch is usually a wrap-type sand-

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wich, sometimes using fresh leaf lettuce or a whole-wheat tortilla. One recent example of such a wrap combined tomatoes, peppers, sprouts, walnuts, tempeh and avocado. A dinnertime blueprint recipe involves a base of cooked rice, quinoa, pasta, mashed potatoes or polenta, topped with a vegetable ragout, cooked or raw.

“You could live the rest of your life mixing and matching these ingredients and never have the same meal twice,” notes Tuttle. “We have been doing it for 30 years. If we all choose to eat like this, the world could feed everybody on a fraction of the land now consumed by agriculture.”

Learn more at WorldPeaceDiet.org/ articles.htm.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Peace Blueprint Recipes When sitting down to eat, look at what’s been created to nourish all those gathered. Enjoy the colors, smells, tastes and love that blesses the food. May the principle of Oneness govern all beings.

Green Smoothie

To start the day, use a high-powered Vitamix-type blender to reduce whole fruits and vegetables to a smooth juice.

If using a regular blender, cut the fruits and vegetables into small pieces and strain the purée after blending.

Yields two servings 1 banana, sliced 1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped ½ cup seedless green grapes 1 cup chopped kale leaves 1 cup baby spinach leaves 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds ¼ cup ground chia seeds ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 1 cup purified water

Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Strain, if necessary, to remove larger pieces; pour into two glasses and serve.

Whole Wheat and Vegetable Wrap

For lunch, a simple wrap can provide a daily change-up mixing in different fresh ingredients plus a plant-based flavoring like dried herbs, spices or garlic stirred into the Vegenaise or homemade eggless mayonnaise.

Yields two servings 2 10-inch whole-wheat tortillas 2 Tbsp Vegenaise 1 tsp prepared horseradish, or to taste 1 cup fresh lettuce, torn into pieces ½ cup sprouts ½ cup chopped fresh tomatoes ½ cup shredded fresh carrots ½ cup diced fresh cucumber 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced ¼ cup toasted walnuts 32

Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

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Toast walnuts by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Cool, and then chop.

Place the tortillas on a flat surface.

In a small bowl, mix the Vegenaise and horseradish together. Spread the mixture on the tortillas. Top each tortilla with half the lettuce, sprouts, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, avocado and walnuts. Roll each tortilla into a wrap and serve.

Raw Vegetable Ragout with Brown Rice Start dinner with a base of cooked rice, potatoes, quinoa or polenta and top it with a vegetable medley.

Yields two servings Rice: 1 cup brown rice 2¼ cups water Raw Vegetable Ragout: 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips ½ cup finely chopped celery ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped ¼ cup finely chopped Italian parsley ¼ cup toasted, chopped walnuts 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp coarse kosher or sea salt

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat and simmer covered until tender, about 40 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, combine the red bell pepper, celery, Kalamata olives, Italian parsley and walnuts in a medium-sized bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, stir until well blended, and then let rest until the rice is done.

To serve, spoon the cooked rice onto each plate and top with the raw vegetable ragout.

Source: Adapted from Intuitive Cooking, by Madeleine Tuttle (WorldPeaceDiet.org).

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Call ahead to take a walk in the forest with the goats.

JOSIE PORTER FARM

Cherry Valley CSA 6332 Cherry Valley Rd., Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-992-0899 JosiePorterFarm.com CVCSA@ptd.net Josie Porter Farm offers 22 week CSA full and half share programs and buying clubs programs with a variety of produce grown on the farm and many other products in collaboration with other regional and local farms, using organic and biodynamic practices. Our on-site farm store is open Saturdays from 9am-2pm from May to December. See ad page 32.

HAIR RESTORATION – NATURAL LEHIGH VALLEY INSTITUTE OF REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Mikhail Artamonov, MD 1004 Van Buren Rd., Easton, PA 18045 610-438-4460 LehighValleyIntituteOfRegenerative Medicine.com We offer a cutting-edge therapy to grow your own hair without surgery or medication. Platelet Rich Plasma from the patient’s own blood stimulates the growth of blood vessels in the scalp, enhancing and creating new hair follicles. This procedure reverses hair miniaturization and pattern baldness with a safe, natural and simple procedure. See ad page 40.

HYPNOTHERAPY HENSEL HYPNOSIS

Fred Hensel Healing Art Center 2937 Route 611, Tannersville, PA 18372 570-236-8064 HenselHypnosis.com

Natural, easy, safe & effective. Reduce or eliminate your suffering. Attain your goals. Medical Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, pain management & chronic disease treatment support (cancer). Certified Hypnotherapist, Master NLP Practitioner certified by the American Hypnosis Association.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE MJA HEALTHCARE NETWORK

Mikhail Artamonov, MD PhD 5195 Seven Bridges Road East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-872-9800 MJAHealthcare.com

Combining Allopathic (Western) medicine, Oriental medicine and the newest medical technology to offer patients complete and personalized health care. Certified in Physical medicine and rehabilitation, Pain medicine, Independent Medical Examination and Addiction Medicine, Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Medical Acupuncture, Functional and Anti-Aging Medicine. See ad page 40.

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MUSIC INSTRUCTION JEMINI MUSIC STUDIO

SUNRISE NUTRITION CENTER

Dr. John Harrigton 149 Route 94 Blairstown, NJ 07825 908-362-6868 SunriseNutritionCenterNJ.com

Sharing the Gift of Music!

Ruth and Jim Ratliff Hope, NJ 908-459-4050 • JeminiMusic.com Offering private voice and piano lessons to children, teens and adults since 1995. We are committed to nurture each student’s unique selfexpression through professional, personalized instruction in a comfortable, supportive, state-of-the-art studio environment, conveniently located in Hope, NJ only 2 miles off Exit 12 on Route 80 in NJ.

NATURAL DENTISTRY COSMETIC AND NATURAL DENTISTRY Carol Sherman DDS, William Baron DDS 2600 Newburg Rd., Easton, PA 18045 610-252-1454 • BeataCarlson.com

Nutritional Healing at its Best! We treat your body as a “whole,” instead of its parts. Our Natural, Drug-Free Programs using Nutrition, Botanicals, Homeopathy and Alternative Medicine focus on removing the true barriers to health and healing. Your health problems are quickly identified and weakened organs are given the right nutrients to further enhance their function. Call for a free consultation with Dr. Harrington. See ad page 11.

NATUROPATH NATURAL HEALTH PROMOTION LLC

Enhance your physical health and appearance with a natural, holistic approach to dental care.

Eliminate any compromise to the immune system. Mercury free, nonsurgical periodontal treatment, tooth whitening, cosmetic makeovers and herbal support in a gentle, relaxing and caring atmosphere. See ad page 7.

NATURAL FAMILY MEDICINE A NATURAL MEDICINE CLINIC

DR. MICHAEL JUDE LOQUASTO, ND, PHD, DC Lehigh Valley Professional Center 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B-27 Bethlehem, PA 18020 • 484-821-1460 DrMichaelLoquasto.com Specializing in Natural Medicine for over 25 years, Dr. Loquasto holds doctorates in Naturopathy, Nutrition and Chiropractic Internal Medicine. He is also a Master Herbalist as well as a certified Clinical and Dietitian Nutritionist. Dr. Loquasto offers custom formulations for specific conditions and non-invasive chelation therapy. In addition the following tests are done at the clinic: live cell microscope, circulation testing, EKG, pulmonary lung testing, bone density, x-ray, scanning for foot & ankle problems, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels and blood testing for diabetes and other health issues, Cold Laser therapy for pain and targeted healing. The goal is to restore and/or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Tina Stashko, N.D. PhD MIfHI Emmaus, PA 18049 • 610-965-8132 NaturalHealthPromotion.net

Specializing in preventative healthcare, digestion and nutrient absorption, and thyroid and adrenal health. Modalities such as iridology, sclerology and biochemical balancing enable the development of your unique program for optimum health. These programs are easy to follow and incorporate into your daily life.

Reach your full health potential! See ad page 13.

NUTRITION & EDUCATION WELLNESS SIMPLIFIED DIAN FREEMAN

Morristown, NJ • 973-267-4816 www.WellnessSimplified.com Nutritionist Dian Freeman and staff nutritionists LuAnn Peters - Brenda Woodruff of Dian’s Wellness Simplified in Morristown, NJ, offer private nutritional consultations, Applied Kinesiology and Ondamed biofeedback sessions. Dian also teaches classes and a nutritional certification course in preparation for the national Certified Nutritional Counselor (CNC) exam. Also, to address energetic and vibrational healing, a variety of crystal and energy healers are available by appointment and LuAnn mixes personalized formulas combining various Bach flower remedies.

NUTRTIONAL COUNSELING

NATURAL HEALTH MINERVA EDUCATIONAL AND WELLNESS TREATMENT CENTER

ALL BETTER CENTRAL

Live your best life and take charge of your health with guidance from a registered nurse and holistic health professional.

Dr. Betty offers individualized protocols in conjunction with your physician to support your optimal wellness using health counseling, stress management, Reiki, energy therapy, aromatherapy and flower essences. Also offering Reiki certification classes.

Through examining your medical, social and dietary history, as well as using Nutrition Response Muscle Testing®, Masha determines nutritional needs and develops dietary and supplemental program to fit individual requirements and lifestyles, resulting in balance and better health. See ad page 9.

Betty Demaye-Caruth, RN, PhD, CHTP, RM/T 52 Deer Lane, Honesdale 570-253-8060 • MinervaEd.com

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Masha Levina, CCN 224 Broad Street, Suite 205, Milford, PA 18337 570-832-2123 • Info@AllBetterCentral.com AllBetterCentral.com

www.healthylehighvalley.com

STILLPOINT SCHOOLHOUSE

Delia Quigley 155 State Road 94, Blairstown, NJ 07825 908-902-4082 • DeliaQuigley.com We help you make a positive change in your physical and emotional well-being through food. Whether this involves weight-loss, feeling younger, added vitality, stress release, mental clarity or your life’s purpose we support and empower each individual in their evolution through life. Workshops, Women’s retreats, nutrition and yoga immersion programs to support your personal transformation process. Classes, both onsite and online.

See ad page 31.

PAIN RELIEF - NATURAL HYPNOSIS & LONGEVITY CENTER

ST. ANTHONY’S PAIN CLINIC Dr. Anthony F. Mullen, DCT(P) Village Park Center Rte 940, Pocono Lake 570-504-1681 HypnosisLongevityCenter.com Decrease pain and maximize wellness.

Anthony F. Mullen, Licensed healer, specializes in pain relief and offers affordable services to improve quality of life. Offering low level laser therapy; painless, non-invasive, drug-free treatment used to treat injuries and neurological conditions, such as, fibromyalgia, muscle and join pain, nerve pain/sciatica, carpal tunnel, TMJ, migraines, and more.

PHYSICAL THERAPY TANNERSVILLE & MARSHALL’S CREEK PHYSICAL THERAPY

Georgine Todd Rte 715 S, Reeders • 570-629-6073 25 Fox Run Ln, E. Stroudsburg • 70-223-8477 TannersvillePT.com

Overcome physical limitations and injury. Two locations offer a mixture of both traditional exercise-based physical therapy and manual physical therapy techniques for more effective results. These techniques include myofascial release, joint mobilization, craniosacral therapy and massage therapy. Our highly trained staff works one-on-one to educate our clients toward healthy lifestyle changes.

REIKI LIFE HOLISTIC CENTER, LLC

Mountain Top, PA Anthony V Wojnar D.D., RMT, OBT 570-868-6635 ReikiCenterOnline@yahoo.com LifeHolisticReiki.com Our main focus is Reiki, a Spiritual practice which promotes physical, emotional and spiritual healing. We offer Certification in Reiki 1 thru Reiki Master/Teacher Usui and Tibetan Style. Reiki and Reiki/Shiatsu sessions and, also a monthly Reiki Share. Reiki 1,Certification Program, . Dr. Anthony received a Master/Teacher attunement on Kurama Mtn. Japan, the birthplace of Reiki. CEU’s for Massage Therapists.

RETREAT CENTER CIRCLE OF TREES

391 Schocopee Rd, Milford, PA 18337 484-347-7489 • CircleOf Trees.com We host workshops, led by gifted and experienced facilitators, offering opportunities for spiritual renewal, intellectual stimulation and exploring new skills. Our woodland facility comes with a lake, trails, a fire pit and dorm style or private rooms. Rent our 300 acre fully stocked lodge for your next retreat or event. Perfect for yoga, healing, outdoor pursuits or your annual club meeting.

From 1 day to a full week.

THE VICTORIAN CONNECTION 231 Wilkes-Barre St. White Haven, PA 18661

Available for retreats, workshops, meetings and private parties.

Offers a unique and elegant experience for your guests. Located in the midst of the Pocono Mountains near the Lehigh River Gorge, this historic home is easy to find just off I-80 and the PA Turnpike.

A variety of amenities to suit your needs, whether it’s one room or the whole house, from half- and recurring days, to catering or overnight stays, our rental rates are customized just for your event. See ad page 5.

ROLFING ROLFING BY VICKIE KOVAR

Healing Art Center Merchants Plaza 2937 Route 611, Tannersville, PA 18372 570-332-4365 Rolfing-Fascia.com Vickie, an 18 year accomplished Rolfer, works by realigning the pervasive fascial tissue network in the body that can relieve pain in areas such as, Migraines, Sciatica, Bugling Discs, Arthritis, Neck Pain, Carpel Tunnel, Back pain and much more.

Vickie is a Certified Rolfer, Rolf Movement Teacher , Visceral Manipulation and Cranio-Sacral Therapist.

Free 20 minute free consultations available. See ad page 12.

ROLFING® STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION OF NORTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA Richard Paterson, Certified Rolfer™ Practicing in Milford and Scranton/W-B 571-265-9950 Richard@RolfingNEPA.com RolfingNEPA.com

Rolfing improves posture, makes movement easier, and reduces structural pain. It can release longheld patterns or restore movement after injury or surgery. Rolfing has helped dancers, performers, and athletes use their bodies more efficiently. See ad page 31.

SEXUAL HEALTH THERAPY ALEXANDRA T. MILSPAW, M.ED., M.ED., LPC

Bethlehem, PA 484-894-1246 AlexandraMilspaw.com

Sexual health counselor and educator utilizing NLP and Mindfulness-based approaches. Learn easy, quick techniques to move towards healing your life and relationships by reprograming your nervous system’s response to stress and pain. “Breathe.

Believe. Be.” Anything is possible!

SPIRITUAL COUNSELING

VETERINARIAN - HOLISTIC CREATURE COMFORTS VETERINARY SERVICE

Dr. Karin Breitlauch 820-822 Old Route 115, Saylorsburg 570-992-0400 CreatureComfortsVet.net

Give your creature comfort. We integrate the best of traditional and nontraditional state-of-the-art diagnostics and medicine in order to treat the “whole” patient. Offering acupuncture, traditional Chinese herbs, chiropractic, cold laser therapy, food therapy, Tui-Na, and homeopathy. We also feature a full service acute/ critical care facility with 24 hour staffing, as well as extensive medical, dental and surgical options.

KATHY AGATE BROWN

Shooting For The Moon 3200 Hamilton East Road, Stroudsburg 570-992-0943 ShootingForTheMoon.com Agate@ShootingForTheMoon.com Kathy Agate Brown has training and certification in both Aromatherapy and Herbology. Her training in Spiritual Counseling allows her to incorporate Intuitive readings in her sessions as well as Clinical Hypnotherapy. Her intent is to bring all beliefs together through education and communication. See ad page 36.

ANGELS OF LIGHT WORK Jude Goode The Healing Arts Center 2397 Rte 611, Tannersville 917-607-1250

YOGA ARSHA VIDYA

Lance Daniels 651 Rte 115, Saylorsburg 570-992-2339 • Avp@epix.net ArshaVidya.org

Develop strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination among other benefits, including calmness and resolution. Arsha Vidya Yoga Studio teaches traditional Hatha and Iyengar yoga with several weekly classes in a peaceful environment. Arsha Vidya Gurukulam is an institute for the traditional study of Advaita Vedanta, Sanskrit, yoga, Ayurveda, astrology, and other classical Indian disciplines. See ad page 36.

STILLPOINT YOGA STUDIO

Reduce stress, experience deep relaxation, clear emotional blockages and accelerate self-healing. Experience our angel readings, healing energy with angelic touch and other universal energies. Reiki therapy classes and acu-healing. Check calendar for Friday and Saturday Classes.

THE HEALING TOUCH

Ronnie Boyer 570-325-3090 ReikiTheHealingTouch.com Combining Integrated Energy therapies and Reiki to promote relaxation, release emotional stress and remove energy blocks accelerating the body’s n a t u r a l h e a l i n g a b i l i t y.

Effective on chronic and acute illness by allowing your body to rest and receive a good night’s sleep. Helps heal the body physically, emotionally and mentally. I also work with animals and will travel to your location or send distance healing Reiki anywhere in the world to promote peace, calm & healing.

155 State Road 94 Blairstown, NJ 07825 908-902-4082 DeliaQuigley.com

Come to know your physical body through the power of stretch, balance and internalizing your awareness.

Increase flexibility, manage stress and improve conditioning. Over 20 classes weekly including Broken Bodies therapeutic, beginner and advanced classes. New student special of 30 days unlimited yoga for just $30. We also offer Teacher Training certification programs. See ad page 25.

YOGA THERAPY ELEVATIONS YOGA THERAPY Cyndee Gischel Graham CSYT Svaroopa® Yoga Therapist 2230 Corriere Rd. Easton Pa 610-653-0904

Elevate your body, your mind and more.

This therapeutic style of yoga reaches into and releases deep-seated layers of spinal tension by using precise angles, blankets and hands on personalized adjustments so that the body opens gently yet deeply from the inside out. Reduce stress. Relieve back pain. Restore energy and enjoy increased flexibility.

This class is for everyone. No experience necessary.

Classes Mon & Fri 10am. or Wed 1pm. Private sessions also available. Call for evening classes.

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calendarofevents

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 15th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email LVcalendar@naturalawakeningsmag.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit http:// www.healthylehighvalley.com to submit online.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Natural Health Talk – Learn about drug-free ways to be your best. Covers overall health, nervous system, nutrition and the spine. Always time to ask questions. 6:30pm. Free. Please call ahead to RSVP. Life is Good Chiropractic, 1807 Route 209, Brodheadsville. 570-992-2929

Mystic Mall Psychic Fair – Michael Ziakowsky, Joanie Eisinger, & Christina Lynn Whited

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6 Conscious Gift Bazaar – Featuring gift offerings from local artisans and a variety of other beautifully crafted items. Enjoy yummy Holiday treats as you browse the vendor tables and find beautiful pashmina shawls, bags of all types, jewelry, handcrafted woodwork, watercolor prints, greeting cards, and other wonderful gift ideas. 5-8p.m. StillPoint Yoga Studio, Blairstown Trades on Rt. 94 across from the A&P. Y12SR 12-step Program – For anyone working with addictive patterns or affected by those patterns in others. No previous yoga experience is required, please wear comfortable clothing. 7pm. Donation.

Yoga Loft of Bethlehem, 521 East 4th St, Bethlehem. Please call to reserve. 610.867.9642

10am-5pm. 15 minute Readings, $35. Main Street in High Bridge. Book online at www.OneSpiritFestival.org or call 908-638-9066 7 CE’s, Introduction to Reflexology – Kathleen Sterner. Anatomy, physiology, zone therapy, specific massage techniques, reflex points, and pattern for doing work will be taught. Novices and massage therapists will be able to use these techniques on themselves, family and clients. 9 am-5 pm, $119, Open to Public, Twin Ponds Center, West LV, Register 610-395-3355

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 Non-Invasive Laser Pain Clinic – Reduce pain with FDA approved Laser therapy. Clients with limited health insurance and low income only; clients with health insurance please schedule another time.

8 clients per week. Must pre-schedule. No walk-ins.

1-5pm. $10. Hypnosis & Longevity Center, 124 Village Park Dr (Rte 940), Ste 2, Pocono Lake.

570-504-1681

Reiki 1, Certification Program – History of Reiki, Japanese Reiki Techniques, Reiki 1 Initiation, hands-on practice time, includes 179 page Manual Register by Dec 9th CEUs granted for Massage Therapists. 9:30am-5pm. Anthony V. Wojnar, RMT, Life Holistic Center LLC, Mountain Top. 570-8686635. ReikiCenterOnline@yahoo.com.

Easton Yoga Rocks with Iris Kish – Rock your Vinyasa! This special class will be rock inspired music to get your body into the rhythm of the weekend. Easton Yoga will offer this class once per month. Please call or visit website for more details. 6:30–8pm. Easton Yoga, 524 Northampton St, Easton. 610-923-7522

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Holistic Holiday Fair – This event is to raise money for an educational facility to empower local families in the village of Otampa in Nigeria. Visit Facebook page: International Kitchen of Hope. 12:30-5:30pm.

Easton Yoga, 524 Northampton St, Easton. 610923-7522 Yoga Under the Sphere – With Alicia Wozniak. As a collaboration between the Nurture Nature Center and Easton Yoga, Yoga Under the Sphere is a class designed to help you think about the health of our planet and the health of our bodies. Suggested donation $15.5:30-7:30 PM at Nurture Nature Center.

518 Northampton St, Easton. 610-923-7522

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Holistic Chamber of Commerce Meeting – 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dutch treat for dinner/drinks,

Who You Are Makes Us who We Are Become a Care Alternatives Hospice Volunteer!

We are actively recruiting volunteers to impact the lives of our patients: reiki practitioners, certified massage therapists comfort volunteers

To sign up for our training, or for more information, please call 866-821-1212 or visit www.carealt.com

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www.healthylehighvalley.com

community building and networking. Members: Free.

Non-members two meetings free then $5/meeting.

6:30-8:30pm. Perkins Restaurant, 600 Rte 940, Mount Pocono. RSVP to Melissa Luddeni. 570-350-6129.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Non-Invasive Laser Pain Clinic – Reduce pain with FDA approved Laser therapy. Clients with limited health insurance and low income only; clients with health insurance please schedule another time.

8 clients per week. Must pre-schedule. No walk-ins.

1-5pm. $10. Hypnosis & Longevity Center, 124 Village Park Dr (Rte 940), Ste 2, Pocono Lake.

570-504-1681

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 Healthy Thursday – A great day to stock up on healthy products. 20% off all non-sale supplements. Every third Thursday of the month. Ed’s Health Foods, 180 Mountain Ave. Hackettstown.

908-979-0888.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Orb Photography Field Trip – Slide show @ 3 pm, Photo Field Trip @ 4 pm, Photo Share & Pot Luck Dinner @ 6 pm. $30. Circle of Intention, 76 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ. 908-638-9066 Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening – Baseline Medical. Avoid heart attacks, strokes, disability or even death with this noninvasive, no risk screening that assesses blood flow & wall structure of the arteries in your neck. AND learn how these conditions may be corrected naturally! Results in 10 minutes.

8 am-4 pm, $60. Twin Ponds Center, West LV, call for appointment 610.395.3355

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29

savethedate A NATURAL MEDICINE FORUM OPEN FORUM Q&A TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 6PM Join us for a free, informal Question and Answer Forum with Dr. Michael Jude Loquasto ND, PHD, DC. Bring your health related questions and benefit from Dr. Mike’s 50 years of experience in Natural Health. Understand how chiropractic internal medicine, custom herbal formulations and non-invasive oral chelation can benefit you. All are welcome with RSVP. Held at A Natural Medicine Clinic, 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B-27, Bethlehem. Call 484-821-1460 for more information.

savethedate HERBAL OUTREACH CLINIC 1ST MONDAY OF THE MONTH

BY APPOINTMENT This sliding scale teaching clinic is held once per month to offer expert herbal and nutritional advice to economically challenged people seeking relief from chronic disease. The fee for clients is from $0 to $$$ based on what they can afford. The $0 client can even get herbs for free. Do not let lack of money keep you from your best possible health.

Appointment required. 908-689-6140. Changewater Wellness Center Changewater NJ. ChangewaterWellnessCenter.com

Relax Deeply – Restorative Yoga using yoga props such as blankets, bolsters, sandbags, and more to elevate and support the body. Use various breathing techniques to quiet the mind and calm the body.

4-6pm.Yoga Loft, 521 East 4th St, Bethlehem.

Please call to reserve. 610.867.9642

MONDAY, JANUARY 6

Highlights:History of Reiki, Japanese Reiki Techniques, Reiki 1 Initiation, hands-on practice time, includes 179 page Manual Register by Jan 6th CEUs granted for Massage Therapists. Member: IARP, ICRT. Contact Anthony V. Wojnar D.D., OBT, RMT, Life Holistic Center LLC, Mountaintop, PA. 570-868-6635. ReikiCenterOnline@yahoo.com.

LifeHolisticReiki.com.

Herbal Clinic – Do not let lack of money keep you from your best possible health. This sliding scale teaching clinic is held once per month to offer expert herbal and nutritional advice to economically challenged people seeking relief from chronic disease. Based on what they can afford. Appointment required. 908-689-6140. Changewater Wellness Center, Changewater NJ.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 Non-Invasive Laser Pain Clinic – Reduce pain with FDA approved Laser therapy. Clients with limited health insurance and low income only; clients with health insurance please schedule another time. 8 clients per week. Must pre-schedule. No walk-ins. 1-5pm. $10. Hypnosis & Longevity Center, 124 Village Park Dr (Rte 940), Ste 2, Pocono Lake. 570-504-1681

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 Healthy Aging Seminar – A lively discussion of the problems of aging including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and lack of energy. The causes are not what you have been led to believe. Chelation therapy will be fully explained. Noon. RSVP 610-682-2104.

Maulfair Medical, 2970 Corporate Court Orefield.

savethedate

REIKI 1 CERTIFICATION PROGRAM JANUARY 11, 2014, 9:30AM-5:00PM

savethedate WINTER SOLSTICE ENERGY HEALING CELEBRATION SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 – 3-5PM Close the year out at this circle with a meditation, energy healing, and assisting in “bringing in the cheer” with relaxation techniques. Tis’ the season to be jolly, joyful, and harmonious. Join us on this exploration of retreating within, letting go, and bringing in peace. Light, healthy organic refreshments will be served. $30. Milford PA. Contact to RSVP. maleineg@yahoo.com or (631) 848-6062

ongoing events daily Care Alternatives Volunteers – Care Alternatives is actively recruiting Reiki Practitioners, Certified Massage Therapists and Comfort Volunteers to impact the lives of Hospice patients. 866-821-1212.

Boys’ and Girls’ Peer Support Groups – Topics include: friendship and bullying, self-esteem, media messages, organization, time management, hygiene, internet safety, communication and body language and emotion management. 45 min. for 10 wks. Call for group start dates. $25 per session, free for Medicaid/NJ Family Care. The Center for Assessment and Treatment. 254B Mountain Ave, Suite 300, Hackettstown. 908-852-5858

sunday Hatha Yoga – 8-9:15am. 1st & 3rd weekends only.

In the tradition of the Mysore school of yoga. Develop strength, flexibility, balance, calmness, and resolution. $12. Activity Center, Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, Saylorsburg. 570-992-2339. MarkHert@ gmail.com. ArshaVidya.org.

monday Hatha Yoga – In the tradition of the Mysore school of yoga. Develop strength, flexibility, balance, calmness, and resolution. $12. 5-6:15pm. Activity Center, Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, Old Rte 115, Saylorsburg.

570-992-2339.

Guided Meditation & Prayer Group – First we meditate then we send out group energy to those who need it. All welcome. Donation. 6:30-7:30pm.

Shooting for the Moon, 3200 Hamilton East Rd, Snydersville. 570-992-0943.

Yoga and More – Learn yoga from an experienced yoga teacher and yoga therapist. Each student is encouraged to explore their personal needs while following a moderate sequence that brings balance to the strength and flexibility of the body. All levels. $10 or 4cl/$35. 5pm. Minerva Wellness, 52 Deer Ln, Honesdale. 570-253-8060 Prenatal Yoga – The body has an innate wisdom about the stages of pregnancy, labor and birth.

Class is designed to reconnect with this natural process. Yoga can alleviate many of the common discomforts of pregnancy. 6:15pm. With Mary Cardinal. $10 or $35 for 4 classes. Minerva Wellness, 52 Deer Ln, Honesdale. 570-253-8060 Yoga Flow – An introduction into the basic vinyasa style of yoga. It includes connecting the movement to the breath for all levels of experience, but is a particularly good class for the beginner or novice.

6:30pm. StillPoint Yoga Studio, 155 RT94, Blairstown. 908-902-4082.

Simply Yoga – Suitable for those looking to improve the physical as well as emotional well being.

Incorporates breathing exercises to calm the nervous system, asanas and sun salutations that support the

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classifieds APEALS Big Brothers Big Sisters – Needs volunteers for children living in Phillipsburg. Please call today to learn how you can help a child grow up. 908-6890436 or INFO@BBBSHSW.ORG Healers Wanted – Help us to aid in the healing environment at Pocono Medical Center. Seeking volunteers for the Complementary & Alternative Medicine Program. Interested practitioners in Reiki and massage, artists and musicians please contact Jill Howell at 570-476-3443 or email JHowell@ pmcHealthSystem.org.

Hunterdon Helpline – Looking for caring volunteers!

Spend an hour a week with a senior, tutor an ESL/ GED learner, or become a translator (looking for all languages). 908-782-4357 literacy@helplinehc.org

COURSES Hypnotherapy Certification Classes - 150 hours.

“At Home” and/or classroom environment and “hands-on” practice experience. Reasonably priced!

Payment plans accepted. For more info or to register contact Bev Bley L.P.N;C.M.Ht. at C.H.A.N.G.E. 610.797.8250. Coopersburg area.

FOR RENT Beautiful Office Space – Offers a quiet and relaxing environment in a holistic healthcare center.

Relatively quiet professions such as business or life coaching, architecture, counseling, therapeutic, are desirable. Handicap accessible. Please call 570-3324365 for more information.

OPPORTUNITIES Chiropractic Practice/Building For Sale – Includes training, access and marketing for unique NRC technique. Located in Bethlehem. Call 609-577-1120.

Vegetarian Café Co-Creator – Seeking invested co-creator for healthy café in South Allentown.

Restaurant quantity food preparation and nutritional expertise required. Investment required. Serious inquiries only. 610-737-4882.

Love scented candles? We are looking for distributors www.getnaturalwaxcandlesnow.com 908-3192455 for more info.

Established Pennsylvania Academy For Sale - DOE Licensed. Growing demand. Call 267-424-4549.

PRODUCTS Tai Chi and Qigong DVDs – Aleve many health ailments by practicing Tai Chi and Qigoing any where and any time with quality DVD instruction. Simple to learn and can be practiced by anyone, young or old. Advanced through Expert levels available at EasternHealth123.com Hypnotherapy CDs and DVDs – Weight Control, Smoking Cessation, Insomnia, Personal Development, Stress Management, Procrastination. Prices: CDs $29- DVDs $49. Call Bev at 610.797.8250 or order through “products” section at www.4change. com Mention this ad for a $5 discount!

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

overall well-being of body and mind. 5:15. StillPoint Yoga Studio, 115 RT94, Blairstown. 908-902-4082.

active meditation designed to relax the body and mind. 6:30-8pm. $8. Effort location. 570-977-0814

tuesday

Silent Meditation Group Meeting – 2nd Thursday.

All welcome. Experience a deep sense of warmth and relaxation as you learn to create a space for deeper silence in your life. A unique opportunity to go deeply inward. No group discussion since it tends to stimulate the mind and ego. 7-8:15pm.

Free. Effort. RSVP & directions call 570-977-0814.

Yoga I: Vinyasa-Style Yoga – 9:45am. $15/drop in or membership. 9am-4pm. Elevations Health Club Marshalls Creek, Meadow Lake Plaza, Rte 209.

570-223-7725.

Modified Ashtanga Class – More advanced poses.

6-7:15pm. $15. The Wellness Works, Rte 390, Mountainhome. 570-242-7283.

friday

Holistic Chamber of Commerce Meeting – 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dutch treat for dinner/ drinks, community building and networking. Members: Free. Non-members two meetings free then $5/ meeting. 6:30-8:30pm. Perkins Restaurant (Back Meeting Rm), 600 PA Rte 940, Mount Pocono.

RSVP to Melissa Luddeni, LMT: 570-350-6129.

Chair Yoga with Nadya – Angels of Light presents therapeutic yoga for every body. Building a healthier you with gentle movement. No experience necessary. 5:30pm. $36. Healing Arts Center2937 Rt 611, Tannersville. Call to reserve 570-656-9713.

Edgar Cayce Group – Discusses the various aspects of Edgar Cayce, dreams, book study, meditation, and more. All welcome. 7-8:30pm. Donation.

Shooting for the Moon, 3200 Hamilton East Rd, Snydersville. 570-992-0943.

wednesday Natural Health Talk – Learn about drug-free ways to be your best. Covers overall health, nervous system, nutrition and the spine. Always time to ask questions. 6:30pm. Free. Please call ahead to RSVP. Life is Good Chiropractic, 1807 Route 209, Brodheadsville. 570-992-2929 Non-Invasive Laser Pain Clinic – Reduce pain with FDA approved Laser therapy. Clients with limited health insurance and low income only; clients with health insurance please schedule another time. 8 clients per week. Must pre-schedule. No walk-ins. 1-5pm. $10. Hypnosis & Longevity Center, 124 Village Park Dr (Rte 940), Ste 2, Pocono Lake. 570-504-1681

TGIF Yoga – All levels. A light-hearted, wellbalanced yoga class with a focus on good alignment.

6-7:15pm. 1st class free. $10. Dingmans Medical, Center for Infinite Health, 1592 Rte 739, Dingmans Ferry. 845-790-3408.

Freebie Fridays – Reiki Share 1st & 3rd Fridays.

Runes/Psychic Defense 2nd Friday. Tarot Circle 1st Friday, guest speaker on other night. 7-9pm.

Donation. Shooting for the Moon, 3200 Hamilton, Stroudsburg. RSVP. 570-992-0943.

Yoga and More – Learn yoga from an experienced yoga teacher and yoga therapist. Each student is encouraged to explore their personal needs while following a moderate sequence that brings balance to the strength and flexibility of the body. All levels. $10 or 4cl/$35. 4:15pm. Minerva Wellness, 52 Deer Ln, Honesdale. 570-253-8060

saturday

Tai Chi – Experience the benefits of this moving, meditative practice. All levels. 5:15pm. Asian Institute, 315 Pocono Blvd, Mt Pocono. 570-839-1898.

Natural Health Talk – Learn about drug-free ways to be your best. Covers overall health, nervous system, nutrition and the spine. Always time to ask questions. 9am. Free. Please call ahead to RSVP. Life is Good Chiropractic, 1807 Route 209, Brodheadsville. 570-992-2929

Sibling Therapy Group – Every other Wednesday.

For children and adolescents with brothers and sister diagnosed with physical, mental, and/or emotional disabilities. Focus on understanding and acceptance and give participants a chance to interact with others.

5:30-7pm. Comprehensive Psychological Services, 274 Rte 940, Ste 103, Blakeslee. 570-643-0222.

Social Skills Group – For children and adolescents ages 5-18 with autism spectrum disorders as well as those with behavioral and emotional difficulties who need to develop communication and interaction skills. Every other Saturday. 9am-4pm. Comprehensive Psychological Services, 274 Rte 940, Ste 103, Blakeslee. 570-643-0222.

thursday

Meditation Workshop – Quiet your mind and enjoy true peacefulness. 1st & 3rd weekends only.

10am-12:30pm. Vegetarian lunch 12:30pm. Tunga Classroom, Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, RR 5 Box 5050 (Old Rte 115), Saylorsburg. 570-992-2339.

Guided Meditation & Prayer Group – First we meditate then we send out group energy to those who need it. All welcome. Donation. 10-11am. Shooting for the Moon, 3200 Hamilton East Rd, Snydersville.

570-992-0943.

Hatha Yoga – In the tradition of the Mysore school of yoga. Develop strength, flexibility, balance and resolution. $12. 6:30-7:45pm. Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, Old Rte 115, Saylorsburg. 570-992-2339.

Silent Sitting – With Bodhi. Bring inner balance and stillness to your life through guided silent or

www.healthylehighvalley.com

Tai Chi –Adults of all ages and physical abilities can partake and gain the many benefits and healing aspects of Tai chi. With Janet Butchko. 3 sessions - 11am, 1pm, 3pm. $40/8 class series or $5/class.

Shooting for the Moon, 3200 Hamilton East Rd, Stroudsburg. 570-992-0943.

Hatha Yoga – Develop strength, flexibility, balance, calmness and resolution. 1st & 3rd weekends. Beginners series. 4:30-5:45pm. $12. Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, RD 5 Box 5050, Saylorsburg. 570-992-2339.

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Pocono, PA / Warren Co., NJ

www.healthylehighvalley.com