Living Well Magazine August 2019

AUGUST 2019

LIVING WELL MAGAZINE™

THE ABC’S OF CBD’S CBD DICTIONARY

BIOLUMINESCENT ORGANISMS

DESTINATION DETOX IN KOH SAMUI THAILAND

RENOVATIONS

UPSIDE DOWN PEACH OATMEAL CAKE

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words from the editor:

It feels like yesterday we were writing about summer excitement: pool, BBQ, lawn games, fireworks, vacations, you name it. Now, here we are writing about the last month of summer. But guess what: we still want to talk about the pool, BBQ, lawn games, fireworks, and vacations.

Although, August inches us closer to the end of summer, there is plenty of time to enjoy all that summer has to offer in the 302. Send us pictures of you reading LWM while doing your favorite summer activity (e.g., lounging by the pool, hanging out on your deck, eating at your favorite restaurant, etc.), and it may be featured on our Instagram page!

For us, August is a continuation of summer fun. We just returned from a family vacation at the Jersey Shore. A very close friend of the family was recently married in Asbury Park (yes, we know, home of the “Boss”), and we spent the week leading up to it hanging out on the beach and swimming in the ocean. Aside from the wedding, the other highlight was spending fun in the sun with our newly-minted one-year-old grandson, Bennett! He loved playing in the sand, splashing in the ocean, climbing on all objects in the beach house, and eating dinner with the family. We loved every second of it. Now, our older son has a birthday, and the summer fun rolls on. Maybe we will be ready for a break from summer break when all the events wind down?

This issue of LWM covers a host of topics. We have an amazing end-of-summer desert recipe from one of our favorite local chefs, Andrew Thorne of Home Grown Café. Cucumber and yogurt soup with walnuts and rose petals from the newly re-released book, A Change of Appetite, Where healthy meets delicious by Diana Henry, along with two other outstanding summer time recipes. Our resident health expert, Ann Wilkinson, delivers another informational piece about wellness and well-being. There are articles about the earth and its natural sources of energy, sexual health and healing, and detoxing in Thailand.

Welcome back to school everyone! Have a great year, University of Delaware returning students, new students and staff.

We hope you enjoy this issue under the sun, and can’t wait to hear from our readers about all of the fun they had in August!

—Enjoy & Share Everything! Diane Strauss

The only thing Bengali is lacking is a home.

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Editor / Publisher Diane Strauss Associate Editor: Michael Strauss puppy love™ Creator Sean Strauss Media Development Jonelle Strauss Resident Artist and Creator of the Valentino caricature.

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LIVING.WELL MAGAZINE (ISSN 2325-2448) published monthly by Savendale Media Group, 1519 Old Coach Road Newark, Delaware 19711 Phone:302-355-0929 Fax:302-454-1867 www.livingwellmagazine.net

LIVING.WELL MAGAZINE© is a monthly publication distributed regionally. All articles and advertisements are accepted in good faith.

Living Well Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for any claims, conditions, products, services, errors, and/or opinions expressed through articles and advertisements appearing in this publication. Please check with your primary health care provider before making any changes. Living Well Magazine welcomes your comments and suggestions. No part of LIVING WELL MAGAZINE™ may be reproduced in any form without permission and written consent. Copyright, All rights reserved. 2018 Various Trademarks used

By Permission of Their resPecTiVe owners

puppylove™ Being deaf doesn’t hold Bengali back one bit. He’s gorgeous, outgoing and sweet with everyone he meets. He also enjoys the company of other cats, having lived with two other cats in a home and now hanging out with his roommates in the BVSPCA free roaming cat room. Bengali is just three years old and can’t wait to spend the rest of his life with a family who will cherish him for the special kitty he is. (Brandywine Valley SPCA, 600 South Street, New Castle, DE 302-516-1000, www.bvspca.org). www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

Cover Design: by dcstrauss For more content, photos, and special give-aways you can find and follow us on most social media forums.

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inside Mind Training Grows Authenticity Karen Verna Carlson

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It’s All Good Suzanne E. Eder

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Hands on Health: Ann Wilkinson P.T.M.S.

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Sexual Health and Healing: The Most Common Barrier to Intimacy with Dianna Palimere

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EARTH TALK: Is there any way to harness the light from bioluminescent organisms for everyday lighting and other practical purposes?

Follow our Instagram page for an up close and personal look. www.instagram.com livingwellmagazine/

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Upside Down Peach Oatmeal Cake Recipe From Chef Andrew Thorne, The Executive Chef at Home Grown Cafe

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When Is The Best Time To Sell My House Madeline Dobbs

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Let’s Talk About Sex, Baby

By Liz Abel, Licensed Integrative Nutritionist, 20 with Dr. Joanne Kakaty-Monzo, BoardCertified Obstetrician/Gynecologist Destination Detox in Koh Samui Thailan

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RENOVATING When renovating a kitchen or bath, take it to a whole new level of beauty with Cambria®

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RECIPES BY THE BOOK

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CBD DICTIONARY

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Many of the items appearing in LWM can be found and purchased from local retailers.

We have included product website addresses when available so you can type in your zip code on their site to locate local buying options and or direct purchasing if not available in your area. Most books are available at Barnes & Noble or Amazon.com

The prestigious— Living.Well Magazine Tried and True award is given only awarded to products and companies that we have used and can honestly say they were great! If it has the LWM Tried and True Award on it, we are sure that you will too.

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LWM TRENDS 8 4

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August 2019

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RENOVATIONS W

hen renovating a kitchen or bath, take it to a whole new level of beauty with Cambria® .

Not surprisingly, kitchen and bath remodels are by far the most popular home renovation projects in the U.S., with consumers spending upwards of $180 billion on updating their spaces last year alone. It can be a complex and costly process to remodel a kitchen or bath, but when done well, you'll be hard pressed to find any regrets. As far as the complexity...there are a few core tips that you can apply to any bath and kitchen project that will make things just a little easier.

First, determine the overall scope of your project; are you starting from scratch or sticking to some smaller updates. This determines what type of pro you need or if you can tackle it yourself. If you are committing to a full project, there are a few types of pros to choose from. An architect, contractor, and/or an interior designer with an expertise in kitchen and bathroom design will all be the best bet if you’re looking to transform a space entirely.

The pros can also help you determine how best to utilize the space; flow, layout, function and the feel of a fresh kitchen or bath changes not only the aesthetic of the space but how it's lived in. All great reasons to commit to such a worthy investment.

When considering a full renovation, start with the 3 C’s: Color, Cabinets, and Countertops. Color can be daunting, but don't overthink. Go with what you already love. Still not sure? Check out your closet, see what you gravitate towards. Cabinetry should be the epitome of form and function. It needs to look good but work hard for you. Think maximized storage with the ability to display those collectibles and beautiful dishware.

Countertops...the key to countertops is beauty backed by durability. Keep in mind, there are more choices out there than ever, but most don't combine both qualities.

This is your workhorse, so you want a surface that will look beautiful and hold up to the wear and tear that a kitchen or bath will dole out. Quartz continues to gain popularity as the go-to choice due to its wide array of design options combined with its durability and maintenance-free qualities.

A great looking kitchen's shine will quickly dim if it's not highly functioning. This is where a pro can help in the planning. What kind of space are you working with? Is there ample room for a center island? Are you limited by a galley or peninsula? How does traffic flow into your kitchen? Think about how your family lives and take that into consideration with the flow and layout of your space.

If you’re not quite ready to invest in a major renovation, opt for a few small updates that can instantly update a space. Painting your cabinets, switching out pulls, or upgrading light fixtures are a few updates that don't break the bank, but can give any space instant style.

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As kitchen and bath renovations continue to grow, there are a few design trends to watch out for according to LouAnn Haaf, editorin-chief of Cambria Style magazine and it’s hard-working supplement, Kitchen & Bath Design Inspiration: The Ultimate Design Planner: • Classic and timeless doesn’t mean that you can’t shake things up a bit with splashes of color on your cabinets and islands. From espresso brown, blues, greens and natural woods, to dark gray and saturated jewel tones, colors that you may have felt were off-limits are popping up in varying cabinet styles in kitchens everywhere. Cabinet styles to look for this year? Some favorites are floor- to-ceiling cabinets or “walls of storage”, contrasting colors, and hidden storage areas combined with perfectly placed shelves to display dishware and collectibles.

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• More and more designers are opting for veining that contrasts against the main shade of the stone. It’s more random and larger in scale than speckled patterns, leaving ample space between the veining to create dramatic movement. The feel is very organic and natural – without the upkeep you get with granite and marble. Cambria® has everything from gorgeous, marble-like slabs with dramatic veining, to versions that mimic wood grain so accurately you’ll need to take a second look. Cambria also gives you the option to go with a high polish, or a honed matte look that provides the perfect finishing touch. The best part? Regardless of which design or finish you prefer, you get all the beauty without any of the upkeep that natural stone.

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• Lighting is all about creating a mood that also serves a purpose. And with the wide array of new fixtures now available, you can accomplish both goals with ease at a price point that fits your budget. The key is thoughtful placement for function and letting your imagination run a little wild with style choices. This year’s newest trends include structured fabrics, micah, woven, caged, clear glass in any possible shape, oversized and, my favorite, structural fixtures that literally look like art

• When it comes to finishes and hardware, monochromatic days are long gone. The sky’s the limit for cabinets and finishes in the kitchen. So what hardware styles will be popping up throughout 2019 and beyond?

The rule seems to be there are no rules.

Oversized hardware in the form of long streamlined bars that span the length of the drawers and cabinets create a super modern effect. Glass and gunmetal or pewter offer a vintage feel. And when it comes to the question of layering finishes, the answer is yes, please.

Cambria® -Winner of the LWM 2018 Tried & True Award.

Cambria® prides itself on being the leading family-owned, American-made producer of natural stone surfaces. www.cambriausa.com

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August 2019

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LWM TRENDS

CBD DICTIONARY

Cannabidiol– Also known as CBD, cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Because of the many endogenous cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body, many people believe CBD promotes restful sleep, supports normal cartilage and joint function, relieves occasional inflammation and nausea, enhances relaxation, and more.

Cannabis-A genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae comprised of three species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.

Cannabinoid-A classification for a chemical compound found in a cannabis which acts upon cannabinoid receptors. CBD is an example of a cannabinoid.

Carrier Oil-Refers to the type of oil CBD is dissolved in. Commonly used oils are coconut oil, MCT oil, and olive oil. CBD isn’t naturally water soluble, so it must be dissolved in a carrier oil in order to be delivered in a liquid form.

CBD-Also known as cannabidiol, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. Because of the many endogenous cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body, many people believe CBD promotes restful sleep, supports normal cartilage and joint function, relieves occasional nausea, enhances relaxation, and more.

Decarboxylation-A reaction which removes the carboxyl group from a chemical compound. This is a necessary step in the CBD extraction process, as CBD naturally occurs as CBD-A before undergoing decarboxylation. This process “activates” the CBD molecule, allowing the CBD to have the desired effect when consumed orally.

Isolate-CBD in crystalline form. Isolate is comprised of >98% CBD by mass. (Buy CBD Isolate) RSO-Also known as “Rick Simpson Oil”, RSO is an extremely concentrated oil made from cannabis extracts. Although it’s inventor originally used high THC cannabis to make his extract, our RSO is made from hemp which makes it available across the U.S. (Buy CBD RSO) Sublingually-This term refers to the method of using an eyedropper to place a CBD solution beneath the tongue. Held underneath the tongue, the CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessels beneath your tongue.

Endocannabinoid System-A biological system composed of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoids, which are internal neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. Depending on the receptor and where it is located, endocannabinoids can have different effects. Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells.

Terpene-A class of organic compounds found in a variety of plants, including all forms of cannabis. Often terpenes have a strong fragrance and can have their own specific effects when ingested.

Entourage Effect-Refers to a concept and proposed mechanism by which the various compounds present in cannabis can work together to cause a greater effect than they would individually.

Tincture– A solution of CBD dissolved within an oil or another carrier. Tinctures are often taken sublingually, using an eyedropper to place the solution beneath the tongue. However, tinctures can also be added to drinks and incorporated into recipes. (Buy CBD Tincture)

Full Spectrum-A term used to describe CBD extracts which include all of the peripheral cannabinoids and terpenes found alongside CBD. By contrast, CBD isolate consists of 98-99% CBD by mass, with no other terpenes and trace (sometimes undetectable) levels of other cannabinoids comprising the remaining 1-2%.

Hemp-A variant of the Cannabis Sativa plant species specifically grown for the industrial uses of its derived products. Hemp has low concentrations of THC and high concentrations of CBD. CBD products derived from hemp are legal for purchase in the United States as well as over 40 countries.

THC-THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the principal psychoactive chemical of cannabis. All of our products contain less than 0.3% THC.

Whole Plant Extract– When you see this term referring to a CBD product, it means the product contains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes naturally found within hemp were extracted from the plant alongside CBD in its creation. In contrast, isolates include only CBD and all other terpenes are excluded.

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High Potency-A term used to describe products with a high concentration of CBD. The CBD potency of a product is usually measured in mg/ml. (Buy High Potency CBD Tincture)

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V

ALENTINO!

Wow! There are thousands of readers who are searching for Valentino.

He is hidden somewhere on the pages of each issue.

We hope you have fun looking and will continue your quest to find Valentino. When you find him please email us at: info@livingwellmagazine.net [Please type “Valentino” on the subject line — keep searching and entering the “Where’s Valentino!”

Contest every month for a chance to be entered to win some great gifts from our Holiday Gift Guide!

Below Is The Answer To Last Month’s Where’s Valentino!

In July, Valentino can be found on page 36, on the Meals on Wheels “ ad!

Valentino can be found in one of the balloons. Valentino loves to celebrate especially his grandparents. You can Celebrate too with Meals on Wheels on September 15th!. Remember Valentino is always hiding in one of our advertisers ads. Please make sure we have your mailing address & Phone Number included in your email. Because if you are a winner we can send out your prize! If you need a hint you can always email us and ask:

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Upside Down Peach Oatmeal Cake 1 ½ cup old-fashioned oats 1 ½ cup buttermilk 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ¾ teaspoon salt ¾ teaspoon baking soda 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened 1 ½ cups light brown sugar 3 eggs Cooking spray, for greasing 6 to 8 fresh peaches ¼ cup brown sugar 1. In a small bowl, soak the oats in the buttermilk for 1 hour.

2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees; cover an 9-inch Springform pan with cooking spray.

3. Cut the fresh peaches into slices (approximately 8 slices per peach) Toss in ¼ brown sugar.

4. Lay the sliced peaches flat in the bottom of the pan, just over lapping the one next to it.

5. Mix together the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda in a bowl.

Andrew Thorne, Executive Chef, Home Grown Cafe Chef Andrew has over 18 years of being in the food industry and holds a degree from the New England Culinary Arts Institute in Vermont (2007). Andrew was born and raised in New Hampshire which helped cultivate his love of gardening and supporting local farmers. He infuses that passion into the cuisine at Home Grown Cafe.

6. In the bowl for an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together at medium speed with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy, 1 to 2 minutes.

7. Add the eggs and mix at low speed until just incorporated.

8. Alternate adding the flour mixture and oat mixture. Scrape down the bowl occasionally with a rubber spatula to make sure you incorporate the flour mixture completely.

9. Mix on low until just incorporated. Pour the batter into the square pan, making sure the batter is level in the pan. Bake until the cake is golden brown and springs back when you press it in the center, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool for at least 30 minutes and then remove from the pan.

Serve warm with your choice of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. www.livingwellmagazine.net

July August 2019 2019

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It’s All Good Suzanne E. Eder One of the trickiest things on the journey of consciously creating lives we love, as we commit to more deeply understanding how the process of creating our reality works in this vibrational universe, is this:

I want to share with you an experience that one of my clients recently had to illustrate what I’m talking about. I’ve changed the name and other details that could reveal personal identity, but the elements I describe are representative of this person’s experience.

When things show up in our experience that we don’t want, our kneejerk reaction is often to ask ourselves, “How did I create that?!” On the surface it’s a perfectly logical question, especially given that our intention IS to create consciously, rather than by default. We need to understand how it all works.

Daryl is a school teacher by profession who also has a natural gift for building and repairing things. He loves embarking on home improvement projects around the house, and because of his generous nature – and his love of the work - he often helps his friends with theirs.

But what’s usually underneath our simple query for understanding is a judgment of whatever is in front of us as bad or wrong, and often a judgment of ourselves as having made some kind of mistake. Judgment creates vibrational static which interferes with the natural unfolding of what we want, so if we’re not aware of that vibration, asking the question can actually slow us down.

Daryl’s friends almost always offer to pay for his labor on these projects in addition to reimbursing him for the cost of the materials, even though he’s not doing the work for money. In the beginning he refused their offers, but over time he has learned to accept them graciously.

He lets his friends decide how much to give him. In the past two years or so, people have been referred to Daryl who are outside of his circle of friends. They see him as the accomplished craftsman that he is and insist on paying him fair market value for his work. Welcoming the additional income, Daryl began to say Yes to these opportunities, and through them he is beginning to recognize the immense value he’s actually providing.

What I’ve learned is that, once we understand the fundamental dynamics of how our consciousness – the composite of our beliefs, thoughts, ideas, hopes, imaginings, assumptions, conclusions, etc. – creates our reality, we don’t need to analyze every unwanted manifestation to figure out what we did wrong. In fact, doing that only perpetuates a false belief in our wrongness, which can never lead us to the creation of a joy-filled life.

What we can do is lovingly invite insights to surface which further our understanding and – this is really important - even if no such insights arise, we can do something else: we can remind ourselves that it’s all good.

I can imagine what you might be thinking at this point. God knows I’ve raised my eyebrows a time or two when people have glibly uttered those words when something unwanted has occurred, and it seems to be a mere habit of speech – what I call a pasteover - rather than a genuine understanding.

But what if it IS a genuine understanding?

It can be. And if it is, that understanding can help us release resistance to the unwanted things showing up in our experience, which opens a vibrational path for more of what we want to flow to us.

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He still helps his friends when he can. One of them, whom I’ll call Sandy, pays him significantly less than his other friends, and she asks him for help quite often. He admitted to me that each time he does work for her, a part of him feels a teensy bit resentful. Time and again, though, as he reflects on whether he’s genuinely willing to do work for Sandy at such reduced rates, he concludes that he is. Her friendship is invaluable to him and as long as he has the time and energy, he is happy to help her.

Recently, Daryl’s home improvement work has increased to the point where he’s considering doing it full-time. He’s no longer excited about teaching and would love for the work that lights him up to become his primary channel for income. He feels some internal pressure to talk to Sandy about charging her more for the work he continues doing for her regularly, but he just can’t bring himself to do it.

In our last session Daryl told me about a potential client who was recently referred to him with a substantial project they wanted him to take on. As he reviewed his calendar to see how and when he could

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accommodate their needs, he realized the timing would overlap with a smaller project Sandy had asked for his help with. He needed to make a choice.

And so he finally had the conversation with Sandy he had known in his heart of hearts he needed to have. He spoke truthfully to her about his desire to expand his home improvement work and his delight in attracting clients who were willing to pay fair market value for it. He explained that, because of the growth of what he now considered to be his business, he needed to prioritize the new client.

Not surprisingly, because of the gracious way he presented all of this to Sandy, and because of the strength of their relationship, she understood completely. She said she would be happy to pay him more and to work with him regarding the timing of projects.

Daryl could not have been more pleased with the outcome of that conversation.

Fast forward to a few days ago. Daryl emailed to tell me that the prospective client had chosen someone else for the work. He wondered how he’d created that and what the Universe was trying to tell him. I knew he was feeling a little wobbly about it all, otherwise he wouldn’t have reached out to me.

So I gently reminded him that the Universe always responds to our dominant vibration and that the underlying purpose of that response is a loving one. I also reminded him that it wouldn’t be helpful to go digging for the specific beliefs that generated this specific experience while he was feeling doubtful or frustrated, and I suggested that it likely reflected one of the following scenarios – or possibly two or three of them. Perhaps…  …his doubts about both his pricing and his ability to grow the business were stronger than he’d realized, and in reflecting those doubts back to him, this experience was helping him recognize his desire to stand more firmly and confidently in the value of his work.  …deep down he had an intuitive knowing that this particular client wasn’t a good fit for him, and that knowing was stronger than his hope had been to secure the client.

No matter what, he was learning to appreciate his skills and his talents more fully.

No matter what, he was seeing his fears and doubts more clearly and so had a choice about how to respond to them.

No matter what, he was deepening his trust in his intuition and in a loving Universe.

No matter what, good was coming through this.

In the recognition of these things all resistance was released, and Daryl understood that through the release, good would continue to flow.

As it can for all of us, as we release resistance to our present experience and stop assuming something has gone wrong.

I want to be clear that it’s tremendously helpful and, yes, necessary, to reflect on our experiences for the purpose of understanding the relationship between what we’re holding in our consciousness and what’s showing up in our lives. But it’s essential to do that with loving curiosity and a sincere desire to understand, not with a suspicious eye looking for all of the mistakes we’ve made that prove how inept we are.

And once we genuinely understand that relationship, we can move through unwanted experiences with more Grace and ease - and maybe even a little affectionate humor – rather than with painstaking critical analysis.

We can ask ourselves lovingly, “What good might be coming from this?” and invite our intuitive insights to arise.

We can allow the experience to reveal more clearly what we truly want.

We can use the experience as a reminder to take a break and do something delightful for ourselves.

We can remind ourselves that the Universe is always on our side, using every experience to celebrate our magnificence or awaken us further to it.

We can say to ourselves, “It’s all good.” And we can actually mean it.

 …its purpose was to provide the perfect synchronization of circumstances to prompt him to have the much-needed conversation with Sandy.  …something else was on its way to him that’s even better than this specific opportunity.

Daryl could immediately see that, no matter what constellation of beliefs and thoughts was being reflected in this experience, the Universe is supporting him at all times and at every turn.

No matter what, he was expanding his awareness of his true desires, including his desire to work with clients who are ideally suited to his temperament and methods of working. www.livingwellmagazine.net

Formerly a successful finance director in the corporate world, Suzanne Eder is now an award-winning writer, healer, transformational teacher and personal guide. She completed a comprehensive 4-year program in mind-body-spirit healing at the Barbara Brennan School of Healing, and she has devoted her life and work to an ever-deepening understanding of how to create deeply fulfilled lives through an understanding of our spiritual nature. She was a featured speaker at the 2015 TEDxWilmington conference and her popular talk is available on YouTube. She offers inspired and practical counsel in all areas related to personal growth and transformation. Visit her at www.suzanneeder.com or email her for more information at suzanne@suzanneeder.com.

August 2019

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Destination Detox in Koh Samui Thailand

By Travel Host & Lifestyle Expert Linda Cooper

Nestled on a steep hillside inland, about 10 minutes from the coast this well-known retreat haven provided me the perfect holiday detox with its easy-going program of workout sessions, relaxing yoga classes and sumptuous guilt-free food.

The island of Koh Samui is a delicious slice of picturesque paradise located in Thailand, known as a destination hotspot for those who wish to press the reset button and rejuvenate from their busy lives.

Since I travel so much, often my nutrition, sleep and exercise go completely off my normal routine so during our recent whirlwind travels through Thailand, I set aside a few days to recharge at Absolute Sanctuary; one of Asia’s top wellness and fitness retreats.

Armed with a suitcase of athleisure wear ready to strike my first tree pose, I entered its Moroccan influenced grounds and was welcomed at the first set of colorful stairs by its smiling staff.

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Unlike other wellness retreats where leaving the property is frowned upon, at Absolute Sanctuary I was refreshingly encouraged to get out and experience the beauty of the island. With its offered scheduled shuttles to and from a variety of beaches, shopping jaunts and purveying the scene at nearby Fisherman’s Village, its relaxed attitude offered the perfect blend to holiday and recharge at my own pace.

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August 2019

Wide Range Of Retreat Programs All of the programs at Absolute Sanctuary approach individuals from three levels, nurturing mind, body and spirit, inspiring change from within and helping you to transform your life.

Most retreats are available in 3-, 5-, 7- or 10-day options, but can go up to 30 or 60 days. I chose the three day “Be Fit” program, taking full advantage of its Pilates reformer studio, the two Yoga studios for ashtanga, hatha, hot, vinyasa, restorative and meditation classes, beautiful spa and infinity edge pool, five hydrotherapy rooms, sauna, herbal steam room and dedicated fitness center with personal training sessions.

Other retreat programs include Yoga Holiday, Spa Holiday, Lifestyle Change, Ultimate Fitness, Weight Management, Pilates Reformer Bootcamp, Anti Stress & Burnout, Sleep Well, Rest & Balance, Body Realignment, Mindfulness and various types of Detoxes.

Since I love to mix things up with my own fitness routine, I really enjoyed my workout with trainer Sari Sigurd Bonilla who accommodated my request with a wide variety of exercises from kick-boxing to weights, pushing me while keeping things light and fun in the fitness studio.

With 22 programs, spanning 15 categories, you will be spoiled for choice. Their selection offers something for everyone and includes interesting options that not only address the fitness and nutrition side of one’s lifestyle, but also a move towards mental wellbeing.

Guests ranged from solo travelers to couples mixed with several girlfriend groups during my stay, everyone I encountered was friendly, down-to-earth with a common comradery to “do you” during your wellness stay, it was very embracing.

Another added wellness benefit that was included in my package was my Bio Impedance Analysis and Consultation with onsite nutritionist Stephanie Rault who provided me with some eye-opening details as well as some great beach recommendations during my stay. My biggest takeaway was to start eating breakfast (which I typically skip because I’m not hungry in the morning) but to at least TRY for increasing my energy and metabolism.

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August 2019

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Healthy Food AND… A fun fact I was proud to learn is my “Metabolic Age” is a good nine years younger than my actual age reflective of my active, healthy lifestyle. I left my session feeling empowered by my newfound knowledge and validated that I must be doing something right with my high-scoring health analysis :)

The Love Kitchen was perhaps my favorite feature at Absolute Sanctuary since I love healthy, tasty cuisine and was served a variety of mouthwatering dishes that included international, as well as Thai recipes.

Packed with nutritious ingredients including superfoods the produce is locally harvested and organic where possible, the dishes are low in calorie and crafted to support individuals who are on a detox retreat.

Not entirely vegetarian, offering fish, seafood and chicken menu options all the meals are free of chemical additives, refined sugar, and trans fats. Cleansing juices and energy-boosting smoothies are also readily available and I was obsessed with their Life Blood Juice cocktail of beetroot, carrot, cucumber and parsley.

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August 2019

DETOX SPA CENTER An equally favorite spot on property was the Detox Spa Center. My body was pummeled to perfection daily by a workforce of powerhouse therapists whose diminutive size belies the vigor with which they worked their fingers, elbows and feet deep into my muscles.

The memorable pleasure of openair Thai massages while listening to the hypnotic sound of cicadas, the limpid warmth to wake up to, the hours of mind-rinsing sunshine each day and balmy nights in this heavenly Sanctuary left me “Absolutely” recharged, rejuvenated and utterly blissed out ready to conquer the world once again….

Linda Cooper is an award-winning TV Host, Producer and Writer serving as a brand ambassador to worldwide travel on her national luxury lifestyle series “Travel Time with Linda” and as a contributor to several lifestyle and travel publications. Her specialties include television and in lifestyle publications include the travel; lifestyle; luxury; tourism; hotels; restaurants; food/wine; fitness; spas; and retail shopping industries. Season One of ‘Travel Time with Linda’ aired nationally on AXS TV Network winning a 2018 Telly Award and is now available on Amazon Prime Video.

Season Two featuring “Bucket-List Destinations” airs nationally Sunday mornings 8am ET on AXS TV Network and soon on Amazon Prime Video.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

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Mind Training Grows Authenticity Karen Verna Carlson

rampantly lack authenticity these days. Auto repairs are usually charged by a universal time-for-task menu. When my car’s tie rod and ball joint took an hour less than the formula 3½ hours, I didn’t think to ask for the $132 I should have saved, so commonplace is that industry’s lack of authenticity. Same with the fast food business—those juicy full color glossy photos do not even closely resemble what you unwrap. On this subject of food haven’t we all graciously eaten food we didn’t like or want, just to please our hosts?

More Authenticity Is Better These slight social exceptions to authentic behavior can still be mindful and minimal even if they are not genuine. However, there are severely unhealthy side affects if too much authenticity is abandoned to garner acceptance and attention from those we admire or from those who pay our salaries. Do you too frequently sacrifice fulfilling your basic survival needs to win approval by helping others achieve their elective desires?

Social Lies Have you lied about having had a great time? Pretended someone’s annoying child or pet was a delightful entertainment? Proffered a totally false compliment? Verbally forgiven an inconsideration while harboring resentment? Most work and social situations consist of masked perfunctory interactions. Social media perpetuates the lack of authenticity, often among family members. I mean, how genuine really can you be with selections limited to “like” or “don’t like?”

Clarify Priorities

What does it mean to be authentic? Dictionaries summon the word “genuine” as its first definition. My expansion of this concept is to suggest that a person who is authentic or genuine exemplifies consistent alignment of thoughts, words and actions. That’s about as genuine as you can be. Seems simple enough. Please take a moment to estimate your general level of authenticity. Give it a percentage. Now do the math and consider the percentage of your life where your behavior is not authentic or genuine.

Polite Scripts Are you one of the people who habitually tacks on to a verbal greeting, the inquiry, “How are you?” with little or no interest in receiving an honest response? When bank tellers or store clerks ask that question, we all know it’s just part of a customer service script, so we respond with the expected “okay” or “fine” or “pretty good,” sometimes politely continuing with that question for them to answer with some meaningless generality.

These are long standing traditions of living in society, not bad or good, but not always authentic. Authenticity rarely has a place these days in commercial consumption, or even in personal interactions.

Warped Time Estimates Have you been asked on the phone recently to hold “a minute” for something that always takes at least five? Or have you declared something would just take “a few seconds?” A friend of mine texted her 12-year-old she was leaving my place in five minutes to pick him up, and 15 minutes later was still here talking to me. Time projections 18

Can you grasp that being authentic has dropped dangerously low on our priority scale? Given those few widespread examples above, can you come up with a few more? Realtors stage houses for sale. Chameleon politicians is an obvious oxymoron. Now, please recalculate your authenticity percentage to more accurately reflect reality.

An Invitation to Grow This is not a manifesto to revolt against an unhealthy, faulty system.

Rather it is an invitation to grow authenticity from the inside of where you are today. Nature’s bountiful fruits and veggies right now this month can be an inspiration to us all to plant and nurture seeds of authenticity.

We see how abundant gardening benefits can be, but there are risks: only a small percentage of tomato seeds grew into the prolific plants whose fruits embellish the burgers and salads we’re eating. Here are some high yield, low risk suggestions for daily living in a manner that models genuine congruity of thoughts, words and actions.

Gentle Transitions The biggest risk or challenge is dealing with discomforts arising from placing less importance on what other people may think, what negative judgments they may fabricate. That challenge pales in the dazzling light of the benefits, which are: discovering, claiming and living your true nature, feelings, beliefs and values. It is difficult to let go of long standing habits cultivated to fit what other people want us to be. It takes courage to trust that our relationships will continue to thrive on deeper connections of common strengths and struggles. Allow gentleness and time to soften behavioral transitions.

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August 2019

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Set Up For Success

Joy Is Present

Start with setting yourself up for success with a few stock authentic responses. “How are you?” Truth may be I feel like crawling into a hole because I’m still depressed about my best friend’s sudden mysterious death a year ago. Authentic response, “I’m grateful for today’s beautiful weather.” Or, “Just getting some errands done.” Being authentic doesn’t require complete disclosure, but it does require something genuine in that moment. When I was at the bank Friday morning writing a withdrawal slip the perky teller chirped, “Do you have any plans for the weekend?” I simply did not want to engage in future speculations. I wanted to be fully present with the task at hand.

I now see how for decades those subliminal dominating fears of possible rejection prevented full involvement with the present, where authentic joy resides. Fear I’d be judged incompetent, fear someone might feel disappointed, fear of being misunderstood, fear of losing independence—all these little nagging fears escalated to imaginary, unproductive calamitous projections of discord, poverty, illness.

Outwardly, my life looked great, while my worry-filled inner life felt painfully, relentlessly tumultuous.

Comfortably Maintain Values

Softening that negativity is not a bad payout for investing less than an hour a day calming mental activity with mindful breathing. All the hundreds of hours of seminars, courses, therapies and growth groups certainly paved the way for this liberating revelation to gently come to light after consistently meditating. Nature wastes nothing. Meditation calmed my mind enough for me to recognize a faulty irrational survival pattern that had functioned since childhood under my awareness radar.

I kept writing, “Ummm, I really need to focus on this right now.” I was impressed at how smoothly and easily I maintained my agenda in a manner comfortable for us both. Not a moment of awkwardness. A few months ago, I would have faked some phony answer, and resented caving in to superficial time-killing, energy-draining chit chat. Mind training practices help me pause before jumping through hoops other people offer. Mind training keeps my mind clear enough to thoughtfully respond, to say what I mean without saying it in a mean way. And sometimes I feel authentically eager for a bubbly interactive conversation.

Wait Another set up for success is the practice of delaying all decisions involving activities with others no matter how mundane. No matter how thrilling an option may seem, I express the interest that I’m genuinely feeling and say I will sleep on it and get back to them in the morning.

My stock answer if I’m not enthusiastic is to say, “Probably not, but I’ll get back to you in the morning.” No explanations needed unless that feels right. Simply, “That doesn’t fit for me right now, thanks for asking.”

Declare Boundaries When my last birthday approached I specifically told friends and relatives to please refrain from giving me any gifts—I’m decluttering and need nothing. I did say I’d welcome cards especially handmade ones, which fed the festive celebratory spirit.

Negativity Diminishes

Benefits Grow Exponentially I wonder what breakthrough benefits you’ll have after daily practicing mindfully breathing in, breathing out. Bottom line guarantee is that the more you meditate, the more authentic you become as benefits grow exponentially. All it takes is five or ten minutes right now right here to begin to grow and harvest ongoing abundant benefits.

Karen Verna Carlson, N.D., Ph.D. (Hon.) is a naturopathic physician and professor credited with “the first major breakthrough in Swedish Massage—research demonstrating energetic interconnections”—since Peter Ling systematized massage in the early 19th century. After 35 years running her own nationally accredited school of holistic healing and massage she has retired to continue holistic research and education through lectures, study groups, and writing as well as with individual women clients. Karen has received international recognition for holistic healing and educational work, an honorary degree, silver Prix Hippocrate medal, and Who’s Who Listing. She has presented programs for television, radio, professional symposia and public conferences. Her work has been featured in professional publications as well as in mass media.

To reach Karen: karenvernacarlson@gmail.com Phone 302.777.3964

“Helping you change your world, one breath at a time”

Cell: 302.383.5500 Email: ellynh@rcn.com

YOGA for STRONG BONE Thurs 11am and 6 pm Ellyn Stanek Hutton bsn, rn, lmt & certified holistic nurse mind/body skills facilitator pregnancy yoga certified in yoga for osteoporosis

KUNDALINI YOGA Sundays at 3:30

Putting an end to osteoporosis... one class at a time.

Location: Fit Studio 62 Rockford Road Go to: www.wellnesswithinbe.com To Register for classes, updates and more info. www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

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Let’s Talk About Sex, Baby

By Liz Abel, Licensed Integrative Nutritionist, with Dr. Joanne Kakaty-Monzo, Board-Certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Those words are easier said than done according to a staggering statistic that more than 60 percent of medical practitioners don’t ask their female patients about sexual health. Within the privacy of extended appointments at the First State Health & Wellness Integrative Health Center, we’ve recognized that women not only need, but want a place to vent, talk, and find answers to their most intimate concerns—not just physically but emotionally. Intimate health is a core component of your overall well-being and to find balance, optimal health and contentment…we need to go there!

I had a frank conversation with our own Dr. Joanne KakatyMonzo, Board-Certified Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology and renowned vaginal health expert specializing in peri- and post-menopausal issues and sexual dysfunction, in hopes of empowering you to initiate a conversation with a trusted practitioner and to receive the support you deserve: Liz: Let’s start with the basics: How do you define menopause?

Dr. Jo: “Many women begin to feel the effects of fluctuating hormones during perimenopause--the transitional time leading up to the cessation of menses. Menopause is when you haven’t had a menses for 12 consecutive months during these years.”

Liz: A lot of peri- and post-menopausal women complain that they experience pain, dryness, itchiness and spotting especially during intercourse. Some women are frustrated that they don’t reach orgasms like they used to. What is going on?

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Dr. Jo: “As we age, our vaginal tissue changes. Multiple factors may be responsible for this change including menopause-related hormone changes, having given birth, or simply the aging process—all of which can leave us with symptoms that make intimacy difficult or uncomfortable. In the case of dryness, itching and pain during sex, it’s likely due to a woman’s estrogen levels decreasing during peri-menopause and into her menopausal years.

It’s mostly estrogen that is believed to keep vaginal tissue healthy.

When estrogen levels fall, vaginal tissue becomes thin, dry and looses its elasticity and this can worsen symptoms.”

Liz: Why would a woman who hasn’t had her period in two years still be experiencing hot flashes?

Dr. Jo: “Hot flashes or night sweats, also called Vasomotor Symptoms, are due to hormonal changes and can unfortunately last longer than the peri-menopausal phase. There are a variety of non-prescription herbal supplements available to help relieve symptoms, such as Evening Primrose Oil, Black Cohosh, Red Clover or over-the-counter Promensil. Functional nutrition is also helpful in identifying nutrition and lifestyle modifications that can help women find relief.”

Liz: I remember when Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) became undesirable. Can you remind us why? And what’s happened in the world of HRT since then?

Dr. Jo: “In 2002, a very large study conducted by the World Health Initiative raised concerns over hormone replacement therapy and the possible increased risk of cancer and cardiovascular events in women. At that time, physicians and patients began to significantly decrease their use of HRT, leaving us with a void in options for treating a range of peri- and postmenopausal symptoms including vaginal health, bone health, dementia and vasomotor symptoms.

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August 2019

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Bio-identical hormones and localized estrogen were among the attempts to treat these symptoms, but nothing was tremendously successful without risk...until now.

Liz: Are there effective non-hormonal options for women who can not or will not use hormone replacements?

Dr. Jo: “There are! New procedures use a form of gentle radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production in vaginal tissue. This alleviates dryness, painful intercourse, laxity, orgasmic dysfunction, and urine leakage to help women renew the pleasure of sexual intimacy. There is minimal discomfort and no downtime. When I get patient phone calls post-procedure to tell me they no longer have pain or that they’ve finally been able to have sex for the first time in years, I’m thrilled! Knowing we’re making a difference, without medication or surgery, is why I chose to be a leader in introducing this technique on the Main Line.”

Liz: Is this radiofrequency technique widely available?

Dr. Jo: “While most gynecologists should be aware of this procedure, many do not perform it themselves. Instead they refer out to another physician, like myself, who specializes in the procedure and can spend about an hour with each patient. I am passionate about making sure patients are in good hands. I advise finding a highly-qualified practitioner who will do a full gynecological history and exam to be sure this treatment is right for you.”

Liz: How can women learn more?

Dr. Jo: “Schedule a consultation at the First State Integrative Health Center or attend one of my information sessions and let’s talk! I’ve been practicing women’s health for 25 years and this alternative to hormone replacement therapy to reduce peri- and post-menopausal issues is one of the most impactful solutions I’ve seen. It should be a consideration for all patients who complain of the symptoms we’ve been talking about – dryness, painful intercourse, laxity, orgasmic dysfunction and urine leakage.

Dr. Joanne Kakaty-Monzo, Director of Intimate Health Services at the First State Integrative Health Center, is a teaching attending for Main Line Health’s OB/GYN residency program and is on staff at all four Main Line Health Hospitals. She is the Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia and Atlanta campuses.

Liz Abel, LDN, CNS, MS, MA, is a Licensed Integrative Nutritionist at the First State Health & Wellness Integrative Health Center in Wilmington and Rehoboth, Del. She leads a dynamic, team-based Functional Nutrition program that encompasses food, lifestyle, lab testing, natural supplementation, mindfulness and movement to support your health and well-being.

Call 302.384.7104, e-mail Wellness@FirstStateHealth.com or visit FirstStateHealth.com to schedule your comprehensive intimate health or functional nutrition consultation today.

From the Main Line of Philly to the Heart of Wilmington: An Alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy Reduces Peri- and Post-Menopausal Issues

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August 2019

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The Most Common Barrier to Intimacy Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW

A client recently asked, “What do you think is the number one issue couples struggle with?” At first, it seemed impossible for me to imagine all the issues people struggle with and try to distill them down to one, single commonality. My thoughts circled around what I hear most from couples: issues with attraction and desire, sexual interest, sexual responding, sexual functioning, problems with communication, broken trust… Indeed, each of these do carry a common thread.

Fear...We are afraid that we aren’t good enough or are not attractive enough. We are afraid that we aren’t big enough or are too big or, if we are the right size that we last long enough. We fear that we want too much or sometimes we don’t push ourselves and want enough. We’re afraid of being alone, or being together and eventually abandoned. We’re afraid that we might leave or, if we don’t leave, that we will stay and be trapped.

We are afraid of not being able to have children and simultaneously afraid about the prospect of having children. We are afraid of getting married, of staying single, of having thoughts, desires and fantasies or not having them…..it goes on and on. This fear overwhelms us and dominates us.

Over time, we attach different stories to these fear-based thoughts; which eventually manifest themselves as symptoms of anxiety and depression. What is anxiety, if it’s not fear and worry about something that might happen, or could happen (but is not actually, in this moment happening)? It’s a story we’re telling ourselves about a hypothetical future. What is depression, if not fear and regret around things that have happened in our past?

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In one of her blog posts, Elizabeth Gilbert wrote, “YOUR FEAR IS BORING. I can say this with all honesty and authority, because I know for a fact that my fear is the most boring thing about me.” She goes on to say, “My fear wants me to stop, because my fear wants me to be safe, and my fear perceives all motion, all inspiration, all work, all activity, all passion whatsoever as potentially life-threatening. My fear wants me to live a smaller life. The smallest imaginable life, ideally. My fear would prefer that I never got out of bed” (Oct, 2014). For some people, their depression and anxiety have become so crippling, that they don’t get out of bed. For the rest, I wonder how much of our lives are lost to the pain, agony and worry about things that never come to pass? Or worse, things that once happened that we ruminate over, forcing ourselves to relive it, over and over.

To clarify, I’m not saying that we don’t all have ‘real’ issues and struggles-we do. Moreover, the brain doesn’t know the difference between experiencing and imagining. In fact, there can be just as much suffering in the imagining as there is in experiencing the actual event. However, in my experience, our suffering isn’t stemming from the events or real-time experiences. More often than not, our suffering is born out of thinking about those events after they’ve happened, reliving all of the pain and hurt, and fearing that it’ll happen again. Or fearing various outcomes that could happen. The mind has an uncanny ability to think of every possible eventuality for how a situation or relationship could ‘go wrong.’

Not to mention, all of the ways that our fears can and do become a selffulfilling prophecy.

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HANDS ON HEALTH by: Ann Wilkinson P.T.M.S,

Q:

Even though I have recovered from a long term illness, I am left with neuropathy in my legs and fingers. I do not feel it is true that I cannot recover from this as well. What modalities have you heard about in your travels concerning neuropathy?

A:

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For example, someone who struggles with a negative body image. This person fears that their partner won’t find them attractive so they go to extraordinary lengths to hide their bodies during sex. After some period of time, their partner starts to create their own story about why they only have sex in complete darkness. This story the mixes with reality, perhaps because it’s difficult for them to maintain sexual desire when all they experience is darkness. After several times, the story for the person who struggles with their image becomes: “My partner isn’t attracted to me. They lose interest shortly after we start becoming intimate.” The reality for their partner may be that they simply can’t maintain desire in complete darkness. In truth, the reality is actually the opposite of the fear--not only do they want to see your body, they need to see your body to remain interested. Of course, none of this will come to light (no pun intended) unless there is some level of insight, awareness and communication between them.

Fear can show itself in many situations, taking couples away from the intimate moments that make their lives worth living. To live in the moment takes time and practice. It requires us to have humility around knowing that we do not know. We have to choose to live with intention-to live deliberately; to respond not react. It’s a commitment to living a life based on the information of today, not yesterday or tomorrow.

Sexual Health and Healing with Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW Dr. Dianna Palimere is a Psychosexual Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has been working in the field of mental health for the past 18 years, dedicating the past 16 years to specializing in clinical sexuality. She holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology, a Masters degree in Social Work, a Masters degree in Human Sexuality Education, and a PhD in Clinical Human Sexuality. Utilizing a holistic approach to therapy, she incorporates a variety of clinical interventions in her work with individuals, couples, and families. She is devoted to helping people achieve sexual health and healing through her work as a psychotherapist in her private practice in Pike Creek, DE; as well as in her work with local nonprofit organizations. To learn more, visit her website: www.SexTherapyInDelaware.com Join her on Facebook, keywords: Sex Therapy in Delaware. www.livingwellmagazine.net

In my travels I have come to know that for almost every ailment there is a cure that is most often in the plant world. We are learning so much about that which has been naturally gifted to us. All of the “primitive medicine” is on the come back as Truth never dies.

Neuropathy is very debilitating and may be an indication that detoxification is necessary. There may be need for fairly drastic life style changes and or damaged cellular tissues that need repair. Being Happy, followed by recognizing the body as an electropmagnetic entity are the first two issues I address when creating healing. Education as to how to take care of the energetic body is key. Homeopathy, frequency medicine and acupuncture are all aspects of electromagnetic health. Diet is very important and should be custom to the needs of your unique biology and cells. Access to non toxic herbal support is foundational. Last resorts include pharmaceuticals, nerve root oblations and numbing agents.

My suggestion is first attitude alignment. Adjust the attitude to grateful, truth seeking, hopeful and passionate. Next, utilize frequency medicine including BEMER, Rife frequencies, homeopathic constitutional case taking and acupuncture.

Quite often the homeopathic first aid remedy for nerve pain Hypericum is very helpful. Support mitochondrial repair with very specific diet and herbs addressing nerve tissue as well.

Myofascial release and craniosacral therapy at times manual lymphatic drainage may be needed and have been very effective in reversing neuropathic symptoms. This is a problem that can be addressed from several angles at once with graceful dovetailing of modalities avoiding side effects of more invasive and quite often less effective modalities. We can go for the Full Monty: A Cure.

Ann is an award winning writer, teacher and speaker. Ann is the personal body worker of Her Holiness “Sai Maa”. Ann practices osteopathic physical therapy. Ann is also an expert on the use of healing foods, homeopathic and herbal consultations, and therapeutic horseback riding. Ann treats her patients in a beautiful country setting which enables her to utilize all of her learned skills as well as some of the healing properties that only Mother Earth can bestow. Ann is available by appointment. Book online at www.handsonhealthde.com.

August 2019

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HANDS ON HEALTH ANN WILKINSON 302.275.4198 HANDSONHEALTHDE.COM

Celebrating

40 years

RY ANNIVERSARY SA

ER NIV IAL: AN SPECIAL EC FF SP 0 O HIP $200 $20 OFF S ER MB /31/ E 7 M MEMERSHIPS TIL UN

OF RESTORING MINDS AND BODIES TO

VIBRANCY OSTEOPATHIC BODYWORK WATSU MYOFASCIAL RELEASE HOMEOPATHY CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY THERAPEUTIC RIDING

SEX THERAPY IN DELAWARE

Dr. Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW

1601 Milltown Road, Suite 8 ■ Wilmington, DE 19808

A holistic approach to treatment interventions that include, but are not limited to: • Couples Psychotherapy 302.691.3730

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Sex therapy is a specialized area of psychotherapy that • Gestalt Therapy addresses specific sexual • Group Psychotherapy issues and concerns.

• Body-Oriented Psychotherapy There is no physical contact between the therapist and • Erectile Dysfunction the client. The therapist is a licensed mental health • Negative Body Image professional, trained • Low Sex Drive to provide in-depth psychotherapy with a • Postpartum Depression specialization in clinical • Relationships human sexuality.

• Fertility Concerns sextherapyindelaware.com 24

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August 2019

Is there any way to harness the light from bioluminescent organisms for everyday lighting and other practical purposes?

While a few organisms can produce bioluminescent light outside of the oceans (think fireflies), most of the bioluminescence going on is in saltwater. In fact, the vast majority of bioluminescent organisms evolved in order to provide light in deep sea marine ecosystems—either to light up prey or as a warning against predators—far below sunlight’s reach into the water column.

What exactly causes bioluminescence?

Other sources of light (the sun, fire, light bulbs) generate energy from heat, whereas bioluminescent light comes from energy released in a chemical reaction: When two organic chemicals, luciferin and luciferase, combine, they release light-based energy as they oxidize.

While the general process is the same across all bioluminescent organisms, the color of the light in each situation depends on the chemical structures of the different life forms involved. Fireflies most commonly light up as green or yellow—and sometimes red—while

Bioluminescence—defined by

Merriam-Webster as “the emission of light from living organisms [such as fireflies, dinoflagellates, and bacteria] as the result of internal, typically oxidative chemical reactions”—is one of the wonders of nature that just about any of us can witness.

most of the bioluminescence under water comes through as blue-green or green light.

Humans have been putting natural bioluminescence to work for a while—19th century coal miners would trap fireflies in jars and use them as safety lights (instead of openflame candles or lanterns that could cause an explosion). But nowadays researchers are hard at work synthesizing the chemical reactions behind bioluminescence for a range of modern-day applications.

Harnessing bioluminescence to help cure disease is a big focus of some biomedical research companies, given the promise of using heat-free organic light to detect metastasizing cancer cells, stem cells, viruses or bacteria within living tissue. The military also has big hopes for utilizing the chemical reactions of bioluminescence to create light that won’t trigger the heat-seeking sensory equipment of the enemy whether on land, at sea or in the sky. www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

Some other practical applications of bioluminescence, as recently highlighted by Popular Mechanics, include an effort to splice genes from bioluminescent organisms into trees that would light up when the sun sets (as an all-natural alternative to street lights), using bioluminescent bacterium to highlight contaminants in drinking water supplies, and genetically modifying crop seeds to grow fruits and vegetables that could signal their need for more water or other inputs by glowing accordingly.

While none of these “technologies” is yet ready for mainstream implementation, it’s good to know that the future looks bright even if we run out of fossil fuels to power our traditional light bulbs.

CONTACTS: “The emerging use of bioluminescence in medical research,” bit.ly/bioluminescence-med-research; “6 Bright Ideas for Bioluminescence Tech,” bit.ly/6-bright-ideas-bioluminescence.

EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.

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RECIPES BY THE BOOK

A Change of Appetite Where healthy meets delicious Diana Henry An Inspired and eloquent collection of recipes for healthy, delicious eating First published in 2014 and nominated for a James Beard Award, A Change of Appetite, newly re-issued, follows Diana Henry on her year-long culinary journey towards lighter and healthier but no less delicious food.

A Change of Appetite reflects a change in eating habits that so many now seek and an attitude towards food that is increasingly prevalent.

Recipes are organized by season and capitalize on the availability of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Diana equally embraces the bitter greens of winter and dried beans that can be cooked to softness and comfort as she does the white peaches of summer.

From a Cambodian salad of shrimp, grapefruit, toasted coconut, and mint or North African mackerel with cumin to blood orange and cardamom sorbet or a divine cold cucumber soup with dill, mint and yogurt, the magical dishes in this book are bursting with flavor, with goodness and with color. Peppering the recipes is Diana’s inimitable writing on everything from the miracle of broth to the great carbohydrate debate. Above all, this is about opening up our palates to new possibilities. There is no austerity here, simply fabulous food that nourishes body, soul and newfound cravings.

“None of the recipes here are ’cranky’ or punishing (or I wouldn’t eat them),” declares Diana. “This is good food for people who love eating. It’s a great bonus that it’s good for you as well.”

Available: Amazon Barnes & Noble Credits: A Change of Appetite: Where healthy meets delicious by Diana Henry, Photography Laura Edwards November 5, 2019, Mitchell Beazley 26

cucumber and yogurt soup with walnuts and rose petals I always love the look—and the idea—of Middle Eastern cucumber soups, but have never tasted one that actually has enough depth of flavor (not for me, anyway). So this isn’t purely Middle Eastern, because I’ve used some stock, which they wouldn’t do, but it has the right spirit: light, healthy, and “green” tasting. I actually prefer it without the dried fruit garnish, but that is traditional.

Serves 8 For the soup 2 cucumbers, peeled and chopped, plus matchsticks of cucumber to serve 1 cup walnuts, plus extra chopped walnuts to serve 4 garlic cloves, chopped 6 scallions, chopped 3 tablespoons chopped mint leaves 3 tablespoons chopped dill leaves, plus extra to serve pinch of dried red pepper flakes leaves from 5 sprigs of tarragon 1¾ slices stale white country-style bread, crusts removed, torn 1 cup strong chicken stock 1 cup Turkish yogurt (or Greek, Turkish is thinner) 2⁄3 cup extra virgin olive oil, or to taste juice of ½ lemon, or to taste 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar, or to taste salt and black pepper To serve handful of raisins (optional) pink or red rose petals If you will be serving the soup with raisins, put them in a small bowl and cover with just-boiled water. Let stand for 30 minutes to plump them up, then drain.

Put all the ingredients for the soup into a blender, in batches if necessary, and process. You will have to stop every so often and move the ingredients around so that all of them get to be near the blade. Taste for seasoning; this soup needs really careful adjusting. You may find you need a drop more lemon juice or white balsamic or extra virgin oil instead of salt or black pepper.

Chill well, then serve in small bowls, with the raisins (if using), chopped walnuts, cucumber matchsticks, dill, and rose petals.

teriyaki salmon with pickled vegetables and sesame seeds I could live on this. It’s so easy and yet utterly beautiful looking, I always feel better after eating it. The pickled vegetables are a great thing to know about. Make extra and keep them in the refrigerator for eating at lunch. You can make this dish with mackerel and chicken breasts, too (chicken needs to be cooked for 20 minutes).

Serves 4 For the salmon ¼ cup soy sauce 1 tablespoon sugar 2 tablespoons mirin 1 tablespoon dry sherry 4 (4½oz) salmon fillets 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds For the vegetables ½ cup rice vinegar 1 tablespoon superfine sugar ½ cucumber, halved and seeded 2 small carrots, peeled 4 radishes, trimmed and cut into wafer-thin slices 1⁄3 daikon radish, peeled ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon pickled ginger (plus whatever liquid clings to it) ¼ cup microgreens For the salmon, mix the soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and sherry and stir to dissolve the sugar. Put the fish in the marinade, turn to coat, cover, and put in the refrigerator to marinate for 30 minutes.

To make the vegetables, heat the vinegar and stir in the sugar until it dissolves. Set aside to cool. (Or, if you are in a hurry, you can just whisk together the vinegar and sugar in a bowl until the sugar has dissolved.) Keeping them separate, cut the cucumber, carrots, radishes, and mooli into matchsticks, each about 2 inches long.

Sprinkle the salt on the cucumber and put it into a colander for 10 minutes, Rinse and pat dry, then add all the vegetables to the vinegar mixture and toss to combine.

When you’re ready to cook the fish, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the salmon, in its marinade, for 12 minutes; it will remain moist and only just cooked in the middle.

Sprinkle with the black sesame seeds. Add the pickled ginger and microgreens to the vegetables, toss, and serve with the salmon.

Offer rice on the side.

Image and a heartier version on right page. . www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

cucumber and yogurt soup with walnuts and rose petals

Try a heartier version Cucumber soup is wonderfully adapatable and can be dressed in all kinds of ways. Instead of rose petals and walnuts, top this with spoonfuls of Salmon tartare (see page 53) or flaked hot-smoked salmon, or even with chopped, still-warm hard-boiled egg and sautĂŠed shrimp. You could also try replacing the dill in the recipe with basil, and the walnuts with almonds, to make a more Italian soup. Top with finely chopped tomatoes and torn basil leaves mixed into a vinaigrette, or Almond and basil gremolata (see page 98 in book). www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

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teriyaki salmon with pickled vegetables and sesame seeds

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August 2019

nectarine, tomato and basil salad with torn mozzarella

One of the best salads in the book, this shows just how perfumed basil is.

You can omit the mozzarella if you are watching your fat intake (although first consider the discussion on fats on pages 284–285), or if you’re not, use burrata, if you can get it, instead of mozzarella (it’s even better).

This is a simple dish, so you do need to buy good-quality ingredie Serves 6 as an appetizer, 4 as a main course

3 nectarines 10 oz tomatoes of mixed sizes and colors 8 oz buffalo mozzarella, drained of whey leaves from 1 large bunch of basil salt and black pepper 1½ tablespoons white balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Halve and pit the nectarines and cut each half into four equal wedges.

Halve smaller plum tomatoes or quarter larger ones, and slice the large tomato. Tear the mozzarella coarsely into pieces.

Get a wide, shallow bowl and layer the salad components, seasoning and sprinkling with white balsamic and extra virgin oil as you work.

Serve immediately. www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

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Jenifer Jurden is the CHO (Chief Happy Officer) of SHOUT b cause, LLC and the creator of JurdyÂŽ, the cartoon hero of hopes, dreams and happy-ness. Jurdy spreads the word about anti-bullying, great choices and living a happy life through the use of humor and positive outlooks. Follow Jurdy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or at: www.jurdy.com

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August 2019

“ WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SELL MY HOUSE? ” This is a popular ques�on. The answer is to sell when you are ready. So, how do you know when you are ready? What I have learned from working with my clients is that there are life events that impact the func�onality of a house.

Life events involve changing numbers of people in your household. This includes having a baby, adding another child, children off to college, marriage, divorce, death, combining households with second marriages (which o�en means two sets of children), and lastly, a mul�-genera�onal change where parents and children opt to live together. Addi�onally, to the human headcount, a popular reason to sell involves the fur-kids that need a backyard and some�mes even a pool!

I cannot personally recall a �me a cat or ki�en prompted a move, but my husband and I put up a beau�ful (and expensive) fence for our new ki�en. She immediately scaled it and found sec�ons she could climb under :) On a more serious note, one reason my clients consider selling and moving into a re�rement community is to take the aging in place burden from their children. Most of the �me this decision is made while they are healthy. They have shared that selling their house now, rather then later, is easier for all. These conversa�ons are difficult. I listen intently to their thoughts and guide them through what can be an emo�onal �me.

This weighs heavily on my mind especially when the client’s children encourage the move with the best inten�ons.

Just like the seasons of our lives, there are prime seasons for selling Spring is the best �me to sell because many sellers would like to move in the summer when they have vaca�on �me. This �ming can also be desirable for buyers; summer means moving before the school year begins. In a balanced market where there are as many sellers as there are buyers, this works perfectly!

In a seller’s market, it may be challenging to find your dream home with less homes for sale. Then, if you find the perfect house, you may find yourself in a bidding war. The same may be true for the home seller who now cannot find their next house.

If a house isn’t found in �me for the start of the school year, some

Join Madeline as she presents:

buyers take a break and just enjoy summer vaca�ons. They return

“How to Sell a House in 30 Days”- Special Edi�on

in my favorite selling season – Fall. It’s a fes�ve �me to sell and buy

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

with beau�ful foliage, cozy fall décor, fire pits and fireplaces. The

In this interac�ve presenta�on, Madeline will share prac�cal advice on how to appeal to picky buyers and also how to make your current home work to get that HGTV feel.

scent of –warm apple pie and Trick or Trea�ng! Buyers dream about sweater weather and nes�ng in their new home. It’s truly become my busiest �me of the year.

Special Guest Jie Huang, from Investment Management & Planning, LLC will share how your decision to stay or go will impact your financial planning.

The goal now is not school year driven, but being se�led by the New Year or when they find the best house! Many buyers, including first-�me buyers, are si�ng on the sideline pa�ently wai�ng for their move-in ready dream home. They will show up to see new

FREE Event at The Montchanin Corporate Center

Sea�ng is Limited!

Refreshment & Lite Fare will be served.

lis�ngs, even in a snowstorm!

Madeline Dobbs is the Founder of More BV Homes, a concierge real estate business, serving friends in the Brandywine Valley of DE & PA. Self-described as the love-child of legendary Interior Designer Dorothy Draper and Mad Men character Don Draper, she is also the biological child of two Realtors. She is the author of 21 Tips to Sell Your House and “How to Sell a House in 30 Days!” www.livingwellmagazine.net

August 2019

20 Montchanin Rd, Greenville, DE 19807

6:30 to 8:00 PM September 18, 2019 (RSVP by emailing) MoreMadelineDobbs@gmail.com

MadelineDobbs, Realtor 302.489.9766 moremadelinedobbs@gmail.com www.moreBVhomes.com Morebvhomes

EVER WONDER IF THERE’S LIFE ON OTHER PLANETS? LUCIANNE WALKOWICZ

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