August 2012 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

BAREFOOTIN' Going Shoeless Reboots Health

Tips & Tricks for

Kid-Friendly

HEALTHY

EATING

SOCCER

Kick-Around Fun & Fitness for the Whole Family

AUGUST 2012 | Mobile/Baldwin Edition | www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

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Try yoga for free at studios and events throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Kick-off Event: Community Yoga Practice

Cathedral Square in Downtown Mobile from 3-5pm on Sunday, September 16 Watch for details and a schedule of events in the September edition of Natural Awakenings and online at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

Teachers and yoga studio owners...Want to get involved?

Call us at 251-990-9552 or email MobileBaldwinYoga@gmail.com

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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contents 5 5 newsbriefs 11 healthbriefs 14 globalbriefs 15 ecotip 16 inspiration 17 wisewords 19 fitbody 22 naturalpet 24 NANdirectory 27 healingways 29 calendar 32 classifieds 33 resourceguide

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advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 251-990-9552 or email Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month prior to the month of publication.

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Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

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 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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

12 KID-FRIENDLY AND

12

HEALTH-CONSCIOUS EATING Local Experts Share Tips

by Meredith Montgomery

16 COME BACK

TO YOUR SENSES

A Childlike Spirit Shows the Way

by Clint Kelly

17 BALANCE BLESSES OUR YOUTH

Wise Parenting Insights from Wendy Mogel

17

by Meredith Montgomery

19 SOCCER’S A KICK

21

FOR FAMILY FITNESS

Summer Olympics Highlights the Excitement

by Randy Kambic

21 FINDING YOUR FEET

AROUND MOBILE BAY The Local Soccer Scene

by Josh Montgomery

22

22 CANCER PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

An Integrative Approach for Pets

by Dr. Shawn Messonnier

27 BAREFOOTIN’:

IT GROUNDS US Reap Earth’s Energy for Wellness

by Debra Melani

27

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com natural awakenings

August 2012

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letterfrompublisher This month we focus on healthy living for the whole family. From staking my space in the bed with two dogs, to sharing bathrooms with my husband and toddler, I am constantly reminded that family living is made easier with compromise and a good sense of humor. While respecting each other’s space plays a big part of cohabitation, a sense of team is also necessary when it comes to healthy living as a family.

Our local feature, Kid-Friendly and HealthConscious Eating, page 12, reveals ways to persuade even the youngest mouths to enjoy nutritious eating habits. In our home, we’ve grown accustomed to centering our meals around the local produce we receive each week from Mae Grace Farm. Our 3-year-old son Mays is always more eager to try something if Ms. Angel grew it for him!

Even so, it’s often a challenge to satisfy all of our individual food preferences. To name a few, my husband Josh doesn’t like zucchini or eggplant, I don’t eat meat (except for seafood) or olives and Mays doesn’t like onions or tomatoes (including red sauce).

While I sometimes find myself plating a couple different versions of the night’s meal, dinner is most enjoyable when we can all sit down together and eat the same food. It’s easier to prepare and more fun to talk about at the table. I’ve found that fish or seafood based dishes as well as Indian-inspired recipes are the most popular at our table.

In a similar fashion, staying active often requires juggling the needs and wants of multiple family members. Josh grew up playing soccer and runs to stay in shape. In addition to toddler chasing, I rely on yoga to keep me active. It can become a scheduling hassle when attempting to make time for Josh’s runs and my yoga classes, especially when someone needs to stay with Mays.

Fortunately, we’ve discovered an activity that we all enjoy—stand up paddle boarding. The workout from paddling is a good one, but the challenge is hidden by the delight of walking on water. Physical and mental focus are required to stay balanced so the mind is automatically quieted. For Mays, riding on the boards is a time to sit still and take in nature’s beautiful views; providing a break from his body’s seemingly constant activity. This family sport has proven to be the perfect prescription of exercise for all of us, and something that we can enjoy doing together.

In this issue of Natural Awakenings we explore topics of healthy living for everyone in the family, many of which can be enjoyed together by all members of the household.

For an excuse to go barefoot, turn to Barefootin’: It Grounds Us, page 27; for some down to earth parenting advice, read Balance Blesses Our Youth, page 17; and for some insight to the game of soccer, enjoy Soccer’s a Kick for Family Fitness, page 19.

As for the Montgomery household, we’re strapping the paddle boards to the car and packing up our organic, local produce for a weekend on the water. Summer will be over before we know it. Take some extra time to spend with your loved ones, soak up the last days of the season and enjoy a favorite meal or warm weather activity together.

Cheers!

contact us Publisher/Editor Meredith Montgomery Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com Assistant Editor Gabrielle Wyant-Perillo Editor@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com Contributors Martin Miron Josh Montgomery Anne Wilson Michael Wilson Design and Production Meredith Montgomery Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin P.O. Box 725, Fairhope, AL 36533 Phone: 251-990-9552 Fax: 251-281-2375

HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe to the free digital magazine at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Mailed subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. © 2012 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 to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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newsbriefs Mindfulness Meditation Class Offered The Practice of Meditation will be offered by Dr. Zemula Camphor Bjork, from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday evenings, starting September 12 through October 17, at the University of South Alabama. The course is open to all college-age students and adults.

Bjork, who has been practicing meditation for 25 years, says, “There are many styles of meditation practice and the word, meditation, is loosely used.

The Practice of Meditation class emphasizes mindfulness, which gives the mind a rest from the fixation on discursive and rambling thoughts. With practice, the mind becomes quiet.”

Health benefits of meditation can include the elimination of anxiety, stress, pain and depression. Mindfulness meditation also teaches the mind to be more reflective as opposed to reactive, and can therefore provide a sense of well being, improved relationships, improved focus and self-confidence.

Along with learning how to meditate, the course focuses on the science of meditation, including how new pathways are created within the brain; what meditation is and is not; stress and it’s effects on the body; how to develop a sustaining practice; qigong (meditation in motion); and current research. Throughout the course, students are required to keep a journal and meditation log.

A former Practice of Meditation student says, “This class is about giving respite to our minds, just as we try when we can to give rest to our physical selves. With the alarming incidence of dementing illness these days, the practice of mindfulness meditation gives a real measure of promise for helping to strengthen our minds; and for protecting them against insult.”

The cost is $99. For more information, call University of South Alabama Special Courses at 251-405-9928 or email CDrake@SouthAL.edu. See ad, page 16.

Massage Therapist Offers Reflexology Jennifer Adams recently became registered in reflexology by the International Institute of Reflexology and is eager to add this offering to her menu of services. Adams is a licensed massage therapist and Reiki master of the Usui Shiki Ryoho tradition. She is available by appointment.

Adams says, “Natural healing is my passion. I've been practicing and studying natural healing through the arts of aromatherapy, gemstone therapy, flower essence therapy, sound healing and color therapy since 1992.” She is also one of the few providers in Alabama for Hands For Heroes, an organization of health care professionals that donates their time and skills to provide therapeutic bodywork for veterans.

Her unique style is gentle enough for the severest sufferers of pain and deep enough for the most rigorous of athletes. Guided by her motto, “Healing bodies one touch at a time,” Adams reads the bodies of her clients to determine their needs. She then treats the individual by customizing each session with the appropriate combination of techniques.

“I want my clients to leave feeling much better than they did when they arrived. I don’t believe in the policy of ‘no pain, no gain,’” she says.

Location: 22787 Hwy. 98, Ste. D5, Fairhope. For more information call 251-6164201, email JenAdams.Massage@gmail.com or visit JenAdamsLMT.MassageTherapy. com. See ad, page 11.

Christian Augustin, D.C.

New Fairhope Chiropractic Office Offers Laser Therapy Christian Augustin, D.C. recently opened Bayside Chiropractic Rehab and Laser Therapy, in Fairhope, and offers K-Laser Class IV therapeutic laser treatments for advanced pain relief and enhanced tissue healing. He is offering new patients a free consultation and 25 percent off their first laser treatment.

Augustin says, “It is very exciting to help people get the results they want, and with virtually no side effects. Laser therapy is non-invasive and clinicallyproven to be effective.”

Widely used in Europe since the 1970s, laser therapy received FDA clearance for therapeutic pain relief in 2002 and is now routinely used by U.S. Olympic and professional sports teams.

It works at the cellular level to promote the healing of injuries and the resolution of chronic conditions such as arthritis.

There is little to no sensation during treatment, and most patients begin to see results after the first session. A typical treatment takes a few minutes and many patients with acute injuries receive desired results in less than 10 visits.

Formerly practicing in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Augustin treats a variety of injuries and conditions stemming from sports, motor vehicle accidents, repetitive usage and old age. In addition to laser therapy, Augustin also provides spinal manipulation, extremity adjusting, physical therapy and taping. He notes, “I believe in conservative, non-invasive treatment when possible and prudent, to limit unwanted side effects and usually decrease the cost of treatment.”

Location: 8355 Gayfer Rd. Ext., Fairhope.

For more information, call 251-990-8388 or visit MyFairhopeChiropractor.com. See ad, page 2.

newsbriefs

La Leche League Fundraiser at Art Walk

Babywearing Mamas of South Alabama Courtesy of Katrina Breeland

Babywearing Mamas of South Alabama now meets from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., once a month at the Daphne Recreation Center. Meeting dates vary each month. The group also maintains an online forum on Facebook. Although it is a closed group, new members are happily added upon request.

The group’s intention is to build a community of baby wearers in South Alabama while promoting safe babywearing practices. The meetings introduce parents and their children to the benefits, various techniques and equipment (ring slings, woven wraps, soft structured carriers, etc.) of babywearing.

The group also has a lending library of carriers available for parents to borrow, so they can determine what carrier works best for them. There is a small fee to borrow from the library and all funds collected go towards the purchase of new carriers.

Founder Maggie Stickney says, “I started this group because I love babywearing and realized there were lots of other people that also shared this love.”

She points out that there is a huge variety of carriers and methods available but many people are unaware of them. “I figured there surely must be something for everyone, depending on your likes and dislikes, your size and your baby's/toddler's size. Babywearing has made my life so much easier and more enjoyable and I hope I can spread this love of babywearing throughout our community.”

For more information, call Maggie Stickney at 251-298-7486 or Facebook: Babywearing Mamas of South Alabama.

Bhakti Caravan Comes to Mobile Plantation Antiques and Yoga Birds are hosting Bhakti Caravan for an evening of blessed food, music, dance, yoga and story telling from 6 to 9 p.m., September 1, at Plantation Antiques, in Mobile.

Held on the first day of National Yoga Month, the event will begin with a vegan-friendly Indian meal blessed with love and manBhakti Caravan tras. Participants will then experience a sound bath featuring 40-plus crystal bowls, a giant gong and love song lullabies (bhajans). A passionate kirtan (call and response chanting) will follow with two singers, a harmonium, Mridanga drums, kartals, guitar and more. The evening will also include dance and drum performances while Bhakti Caravan will encourage participation from everyone in both song and dance.

All proceeds generated by Bhakti Caravan will go towards the funding of Good Karma, New Orleans’ first Bhakti conscious restaurant.

Cost is $25 for the meal and $15 for the show. Location: Plantation Antiques, 604 Bel Air Blvd., Mobile. For more information call 251-604-3924 or visit Facebook. com/BhaktiCaravan.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

A fundraiser for La Leche League Mobile Bay Area will be taking place from 6 to 9 p.m., August 10 at Lunatix and Company in Mobile as a part of LoDa’s monthly Art Walk. Breastfeeding-related art, as well as handmade accessories for mothers and babies will be sold by the group. A dinner for two at True Midtown Kitchen will be raffled off and the first 50 people to register for the raffle will be able to redeem their ticket for a free appetizer.

La Leche League International provides mother to mother support, advice and encouragement for women who are breastfeeding or interested in breastfeeding.There are currently three monthly meetings in the area. Mobile meetings take place at 10:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the last Monday of each month.

Daphne meetings are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. There is no cost to attend and babies and children are welcome. Additionally, phone, email and Facebook support are available at any time.

For meeting locations and more information, call 251-689-2085 or 251-654-3880; email ErinLLL Mobile@yahoo.com, MeghanLLL@ yahoo.com or AmandaLLLMobile@ yahoo.com; or Facebook: “La Leche League Mobile Bay Area” and “La Leche League Eastern Shore.”

Awakening Journeys Debuts Travel Adventures of Self-Discovery

A Call to Participate in Cancer Research

With the recent creation of Awakening Journeys, friends and readers of Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin can enjoy several opportunities for self-discovery and adventure, beginning in fall 2012.

Travel excursions to Peru and China, offered in a special 10-day tour format, will be the first destinations available.

Sheryl Miller, a traveler from St. Petersburg, Florida, who recently toured China says, “This is a fabulous journey—an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

China will fill up your senses and expand your heart.” Likewise, visitors to Peru’s many historic sites, such as Machu Picchu and the Inca ruins surrounding Lake Titicaca, speak of remarkable vistas and extraordinary memories.

Travelers with Awakening Journeys will find themselves immersed in the varied cultures and traditions of each destination country. These one-of-a-kind trips are intended to inspire and enrich participants through purposeful travel, camaraderie and diverse activities.

Local group rates are available, and local nonprofit organizations can participate and use the trip as a fundraiser. For groups and local fundraisers call 251-9909552 or email Publisher@HeatlhyLivingHealthyPlanet.com for details. For more information and trip itineraries or to register for an Awakening Journey, visit AwakeningJourneys.net. See ad, page 29.

A Challenge to End Hunger A Challenge to End Hunger, Bay Area Food Bank’s 14th annual Chef Challenge, takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m., September 6, at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. Sponsored

by TRAX Tires, the event features 2011 Chef Challenge cuisine from some of the area’s most celebrated chefs, live music from Roman Street and a vast silent auction.

September has been designated Hunger Action Month by Feeding America (FeedingAmerica.org) and the annual Chef Challenge is the local organization’s kickoff to this nationwide initiative. The aspiration of Feeding America is to mobilize every American in the fight against hunger. All proceeds from the event will be used by the food bank to continue distributing food to those in need throughout the Central Gulf Coast.

Residents of South Alabama have an opportunity to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3). CPS-3 will enroll a diverse population of up to half a million people across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Enrollment will take place in Mobile and Baldwin counties from August 21 to 25. Interested individuals can visit CPS3SouthAlabama.org to secure an enrollment appointment.

“Taking an hour or so every few years to fill out a survey—and potentially save someone from being diagnosed with cancer in the future—is a commitment that thousands of volunteer participants have already made. We're looking for more like-minded individuals throughout the South Alabama community to join this effort,” says Alpa V. Patel, Ph.D., principal investigator of CPS-3.

The opportunity for local residents to enroll in CPS-3 is being made possible through partnerships with Infirmary Health, the YMCA of South Alabama and Meyer Vacation Rentals. In-person enrollment takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete and includes a brief survey, waist measurement and small blood sample. Individuals will take home an initial comprehensive survey that will take an hour or less to complete. Followup surveys are expected to be sent every few years.

For more information, call 1-888-6045888, email SouthAlabamaCPS3@gmail. com or visit CPS3SouthAlabama.org.

Admission is $50 per person. Location: 30945 Five Rivers Blvd., Spanish Fort. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at BayAreaFoodBank.org or by contacting Mary Candace Vegliacich at 251-653-1617, ext. 118, or MVegliacich@ BayAreaFoodBank.org. natural awakenings

August 2012

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newsbriefs Free Yoga Classes and Events in September In celebration of Yoga Month, a national observance each September, local yoga teachers and studio owners are teaming up to offer free yoga classes and events throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties.

During the 2nd annual Mobile/Baldwin Yoga Week, from September 16 through 22, local studios will participate in National Yoga Month’s One Week Free Yoga program. Individuals will be able to print a card from YogaMonth.org/ OneWeekFreeYoga to be redeemed for unlimited, free yoga classes at participating studios throughout the week. Cards are only valid at studios where the cardholders have not previously taken classes.

To kick off Yoga Week, a free, community yoga practice will be held September 16, in Cathedral Square, in downtown Mobile. Local yoga teachers will set up informational booths onsite for attendees to visit before and after the beginnerfriendly practice. Teachers will answer questions about yoga and their class offerings, as well as provide demonstrations.

Throughout the entire month, additional donation-based and free yoga events will be offered to the Mobile/Baldwin community.

For more information, see next month’s Natural Awakenings, call 251-990-9552, visit TinyURL.com/YogaWeek or Facebook: Mobile/Baldwin Yoga Week. See ad, page 2.

The League of Women Voters of Mobile Receives National Award The League of Women Voters of Mobile (LWVM) recently won the 2012 Strengthening Democracy Award from the League of Women Voters (LWV) of the United States, at the organization’s 50th national convention in Washington, DC.

Standing out among almost 800 local and state leagues, Mobile’s League was awarded this honor for their grassroots work using Vote 18, an interactive, non-partisan voting program and empowerment tool. In one class period, participants learn the history of voting, see the relevance of voting in their lives and are engaged in the world of politics. The purpose of the program is to energize young Americans to be involved citizens and leaders, motivate students to register to vote and empower them with an understanding of the significance of their vote.

More than 3,500 students have participated in Vote 18 across Mobile County since it launched in 2008. There is no cost for schools and groups to schedule a Vote 18 session led by LWVM.

“Projects like this, by the Mobile, Alabama League of Women Voters, build upon the League’s 92-year mission of ensuring all citizens have the information and tools they need for making an informed vote,” says national League President Elisabeth MacNamara.

For more information, visit LWVMobile.org and Vote18.org.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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Saturday Paint Days with Dennis Heckler The Fairhope Artists Gallery is offering Saturday Paint Days with Dennis Heckler, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., August 11 and September 8. This class is geared for beginner painters or casual oil and acrylic enthusiasts that are ready to take their observation and painting skills to the next level. All oil or acrylic supplies are included.

“Learning a few basics to start a painting makes a big difference,” says Heckler. “We will define the essence of what you choose to paint. We will learn dramatic use of color, perspective, light direction, how to make backgrounds recede and the point of interest stand out.”

Heckler, an artist who lives in Yazoo City, Mississippi and Fairhope, began drawing at the age of 3. As an adult, he explored countryside vistas of the northeastern U.S., where he fell in love with American landscapes, the country houses that dotted them and the play of light on rooftops, trees, water and rocks. Today, he expresses his personality and passions through landscapes and commissioned house portraits that capture scenes from the American West, the Gulf South and the Mid-Atlantic region.

Cost of class is $100 or $75/each for two classes. Location: 18 South Section St., Fairhope. For more information call 251-990-8763 or visit FairhopeArtistGallery.blogspot. com. See listing, page 33.

Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin is for sale!

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Good Yoga and Good Karma With the Good Hike

Local photographer Victoria Webb shot Trey and Jessica Wright with their kids, Brayden, 5, and Eva, 3, at her home studio. The photos feature produce from Jimmy Lowe's Produce Stand in Mobile.

Jessica says, "We love to eat natural and organic food every chance we get. It tastes better and is much better for us!" Fruit is a staple in their West Mobile home. "I can't feed my kids enough of it—they would eat it all day every day if they could!"

Webb specializes in family and wedding photography and her photos are also featured in Kid-friendly and Health-Conscious Eating, page 12.

For more information, call 251-7169699 or visit VictoriaWebbPhotography. com.

The cost is $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Raffle tickets are $5 each or five for $20. Location: 2065 Old Shell Rd., Mobile. For more information contact Heidi Pritchett at 251-776-4069, visit TinyURL.com/GoodHike or QuietMindMassageTherapy. com. See ad, page 17.

Art Lessons for Homeschoolers and Adults Starting in September, Katrina Breeland will offer private art classes for homeschool students and adults between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. In Mobile, classes are currently taking place at Westminster Presbyterian Church; Baldwin County locations will soon be determined.

Offerings include beginner drawing classes for 12-year-olds to adults and art lessons for 4-to-11-year-olds, emphasizing creative freedom and the exploration of materials.

Parents can also enroll in a one-time class about facilitating artistic growth and creativity in the home.

With a Bachelor’s degree in art therapy and a master’s degree in Art Education, Breeland was previously employed as an elementary art teacher and an art educator at the Mobile Museum of Art.

Breeland says, “I love teaching beginner drawing and elementary art classes because learning to draw and think like an artist compels us to investigate the people and things around us. Development of imagination and problem solving skills are natural byproducts of visual arts experimentation. Students connect these thought processes to other areas of learning and respond with the same innovation and imagination.”

Courtesy of Katrina Breeland

About the Cover

Quiet Mind Massage Therapy and Yoga Studio is pairing with the Good Hike to host a benefit event in support of Conscious Alliance (Conscious Alliance.org), August 11. Guest teachers Eric and Sabrina Schmidt of Swan River Arabi Seva, from New Orleans, will lead an all-levels yoga class from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Quiet Mind.

An open house will follow until 12:30 p.m. when attendees will enjoy healthy snacks, smoothies, chair massages, a chi machine demonstration and a drawing for raffle prizes donated by Virginia’s Health Foods, Thermography Advantage, The Pure Vegan, The Footbath Lady, Green Clean and several local massage therapists. Individuals do not have to be present to win.

The Good Hike is a small group of individuals raising funds and awareness for the deserving nonprofit organization, Conscious Alliance. Donations will be used in the organization’s hunger relief efforts by supporting food banks nationwide. Conscious Alliance recently donated 30,000 pounds of food to the Bay Area food Bank.

The organization also focuses on economically isolated Native American Reservations and raises awareness of the extreme poverty that exists in these communities.

For more information, call 251-554-5704, email KatrinaBreeland@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/StudioGarageArtClasses. See listing, page 33.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Cheap Bling is Bad News

healthbriefs

Training Helps Bust Teacher Burnout

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T

eaching is tough, and teachers that stick with the profession have higher than average rates of stress and burnout than most other college-educated workers. A new study published by the journal Emotion explores how Cultivating Emotional Balance (CEB), a training approach that combines Buddhist practices of meditation and compassion with education drawn from Western psychology about emotion, can help. Teachers that participated in an eight-week CEB program showed a strong drop in feelings of depression and an increase in positive states of mind.

Elderberry Elixir: Backyard Medicine Chest

N

ew research is turning up another natural remedy to mend what ails us. Native to both North America and Europe and historically appreciated by Hippocrates as “nature’s medicine chest,” elderberries are especially rich in antioxidants, putting them near the top of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) list. Both the flowers and fruit are used to make tea, juice, wine, preserves and nutraceutical products to treat a variety of ills.

International herbalist James Duke, Ph.D., author of The Green Pharmacy, recognizes the elderberry’s age-old reputation as a remedy for viral infections and for treating cough, flu and tonsillitis. It’s even being studied for its activity against HIV and for regulating blood sugar.

Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia are examining its potential for preventing strokes and prostate cancer, reducing inflammation and boosting resistance to infectious diseases. They’re set to host the first International Symposium on the Elderberry, from June 9 to 14, 2013.

Terry Durham, a farmer and conservationist in Ashland, Missouri, describes elderberries—which are typically harvested in late August through early September—as “the superfruit in our own backyard.”

Serving sushi made with organic, locally-grown vegetables...

Come TASTE the difference.

Baldwin County Veggies from Mae Grace Farm New Gluten-Free Menu $5.00 Martini Specials Monday-Thursday 1410 US HYW 98 Ste J, in Daphne • 251-621-1906 • www.SamuraiJ.com

esearch from the Ecology Center, a nonprofit environmental organization, discloses that more than half of lowcost metal adult and children’s jewelry contain large amounts of toxic chemicals, including lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium and chlorine (from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC). The report notes that these chemicals have been linked in animal and some human studies to acute allergies and long-term health impacts such as birth defects, impaired learning, liver toxicity and cancer. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, young children should not be given or allowed to play with cheap metal jewelry, especially when unsupervised.

Source: HealthyStuff.org

WALKING + TEXTING = FORGETTING

T

alking on a cell phone or texting might have an unexpectedly troubling downside. Researchers at Stony Brook University, in New York, studied young people that were texting while walking and discovered that they walked slower, veered off course more and experienced decreased working memory.

Jen Adams LMT Healing Bodies One Touch at a Time Massage Therapy, Reiki, Aromatherapy & Reflexology Call or Book Online • Gift Certificates Available 251-616-4201 • jenadamslmt.massagetherapy.com natural awakenings

August 2012

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Local Experts Share Their Tips & Tricks

by Meredith Montgomery

A

s families juggle the busy schedules of kids with the long workdays of parents, it’s hard to make healthy eating a priority. When Gulf Shores-based Personal Transformation Coach Adwiti Haffner (AliveWithAdwiti.com) was growing up in Darjeeling, India, the doorbell rang at the break of dawn each morning.

“We’d open the door to our smiling milk man who had a personal relationship with each of the households that he delivered milk to,” Haffner recalls. “Fresh green vegetables were brought to the door step by vegetable vendors from the farm or we would get them from the daily farmers’ market.”

Processed foods were rarely a part of Haffner’s diet when she was young and that way of eating has shaped her food choices today, especially when cooking for her 7-year-old daughter.

The luxury of daily grocery deliveries from a local producer is not available to most, while finicky taste buds of toddlers and school age children are often hard to please. But the recent figures on childhood obesity illustrate the importance of this timely topic. Natural Awakenings 12

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

consulted local moms and healthy living business owners for first hand advice on how to get even the youngest at the dinner table to eat a more health-conscious diet.

Start Young “Just like with adults, once kids have grown accustomed to fried, salty, sugary foods, it’s harder to convince them to give those things up,” says holistic health coach and owner of The Pure Vegan, Tracey Glover (ThePureVegan.com). “Introducing new foods to kids is always a gamble, so the earlier you get them started on a healthy diet, the better.”

Processed baby foods often taste little like their real food counterparts. It may take a couple more hours a week, but preparing homemade baby food will pay off in the long run. By feeding tots steamed and pureed produce, they become accustomed to the real flavor of fruits and veggies from an early age.

Encourage a diverse diet by introducing a wide variety of foods and flavors to young children. Experiment with different types of grains such as quinoa and barley, or cook everyday favorites like rice in new

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flavors such as coconut milk, a staple in Indian dishes. Because eating preferences often change in kids, reintroduce previously rejected foods several times, trying different types of seasoning to persuade young taste buds.

Grow and Cook Together “I think getting children involved in growing their food is extremely important,” says Mae Grace Farm (MaeGraceFarm. com) owner Angel Martin. “Even if they don't fully understand the biology of growing a seed to mature fruit, they're observing the process and connecting with their food source. They get a better understanding of how difficult it can be to care for something that you will eventually eat.” Children are often excited to eat fruits and vegetables that they’ve helped care for.

Martin suggests growing squash with children, because the seeds are large and easy to handle, and they’re less susceptible to disease than many other vegetables, such as tomato plants. This time of year, any kind of winter squash, such as butternut, acorn or spaghetti, holds up well

Photo by Victoria Webb Photography

Kid-Friendly & Health-Conscious Eating

Get Creative Creativity goes a long way in a vegetable’s campaign for consumption. A study funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that pre-schoolers are twice as likely to eat “X-ray Vision Carrots” than just plain carrots. Samurai J (SamuraiJ.com) Manager Michele Vasquez

was inspired by this data to make veggies more appealing to her picky eater, Vincent. “I call vegetables by different and fun names, or imply that they provide superpowers,” she says. Power peas, bunny food (carrots) and trees (broccoli) are a few examples. “Once he enjoyed a salad, and so I now refer to anything green that I prepare as salad, and he’s more willing to eat it.”

Arranging food in an unexpected manner on the plate makes healthy eating more fun. Try a palm tree fruit salad by using two banana halves as trunks, kiwi slices as fronds and tangerine slices as mounds of sand. Peanut butter or cream cheese topped with raisins and stuffed in celery make a tasty snack of ants on a log.

Glover suggests using favorite kid foods as a vehicle for healthy ingredients.

“It’s quite easy to make traditional meals more healthy with a few simple substitutions. A delicious cheese sauce for mac n’ cheese can be made entirely from veggies, cashews and spices; pot pies can be made using nut milk, veggies, and tofu; a bacon substitute for BLTs can be made with the soy product, tempeh.”

Martin says, “I like the idea of taking something nutrient-dense and earthy, like kale, and turning it into a snack such as kale chips. It turns into something really fun and tasty instead of just another green thing on the dinner plate.” Smoothies are another tasty way to consume nutrientrich fruits and veggies. Throw a handful of spinach into the blender with fruit to sneak in a serving of leafy greens.

Don’t Forget the Drinks A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that individuals are now consuming an average of 300 calories of sweetened beverages daily, 50 more calories than two decades ago.

Drinking that amount of sugar has been proven to have a negative impact on health, including reduced immune function. Encourage kids to reach for a glass of water instead of sodas and sweetened juices.

Lotus Doula (MobileDoula.com) owner Angela Comer says, “I have found that my kids will drink water if they have a cute, reusable water bottle that they like.

They each have their own, with their name on it, but the rule is that they can only use it to drink water.”

Young Living distributer Judith Wilson (Oil-Testimonials.com/759523) suggests making flavored waters with 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils such as lemon, orange, grapefruit, tangerine and peppermint. "We all need to drink plenty of water, and with our kids playing outside, water is especially crucial," she says. "The peppermint can also be used to help cool the body during hot weather."

Healthy eating for the whole family is about more than trim waistlines and proper nutrient consumption. Haffner learned from her relatives that one of the best ingredients is less tangible. “My aunt always said that her secret ingredient was love." Armed with love and superpower producing veggies, call the kids into the kitchen to see how delicious and fun healthy eating can be.

Photo by Victoria Webb Photography

in the heat of the late summer and early fall.

The versatility of squash also makes it a preferred choice in the kitchen, because there are many things that can be made from one plant: casseroles, soups, breads or just pureed and canned squash.

Martin also points out that freezing excess squash to enjoy during the winter months offers a teaching opportunity for parents to explain the seasonality of produce to children.

Shopping at local farmers markets with kids has a similar effect. By introducing them to the grower of their food and by including them in the shopping experience, children have a greater sense of connection to what’s on their plate.

Whether or not vegetables are growing in your backyard, consider involving children in the preparation of meals.

Researchers at Teachers College, at Columbia University, found that children were more likely to eat and try new foods when they helped cook them. Toddlers enjoy dumping pre-measured ingredients into the mixing bowl and placing toppings on a homemade pizza. Pre-schoolers can help shell peas and peel vegetables with a peeler. Older siblings can learn to prepare simple recipes on their own with a little supervision and guidance.

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

Danger Signs

Monsanto Weed Killer Causes Animal Mutations The world’s most popular weed killer, Monsanto’s Roundup, a systemic, broad-spectrum herbicide, can induce morphological changes in vertebrate skeletal animals, say U.S. biologists studying its effect on amphibians. A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers says the poison, tested in environmentally relevant concentrations, caused the shapes of two species of amphibians to change.

The study is the first to show these dangerous consequences.

The presence of predators can cause tadpoles to change shape by altering their stress hormones, but similar shape changes seen after exposure to Roundup suggest the weed killer may interfere with the hormones of tadpoles, and potentially, many other animals. The development is important because amphibians not only serve as a barometer of an ecosystem’s health, but also as an indicator of potential dangers to other species in the food chain, including humans.

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God is the one Living Spirit which dwells within us all. We invite you to join us as we learn to live life with grace, wisdom, gratitude, and love.

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Knowing Gratitude Oneness Acceptance Celebration Personal Responsibility Affirmative Prayer Awakening

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Better Doggie Bags Want Not, Waste Not

The New York Times estimates that 78 million dogs produce more than 10.6 million tons of dung annually.

To tackle the growing problem of unhygienic doggie doo-doo, about which USA Today reports, “At some beaches, dogs help raise bacteria levels so high that visitors must stay out of the water,” operators of Allan H. Treman Marine State Park, in Ithaca, New York, started a project in 2009 to compost the waste in its dog park.

Plastic bags that don’t decompose easily end up in landfills, so park officials began placing corn-based, compostable bags in dispensers. A local company, Cayuga Compost, picks up the waste weekly for processing and deposits it into a pile mixed with yard and wood waste at a nearby composting site.

In 18 months, the company composted 12 tons of dog waste from the park. Lab tests have shown that the compost is pathogen-free and has a high-nutrient profile that is perfect for flowers, shrubs and trees. Cayuga Program Manager Mark Whiting calls it a great example of upcycling—taking something that is otherwise considered worthless and turning it into a product with higher value.

Note: ZeroWasteUSA.com and similar entities provide complete sustainable systems for pet waste disposal; biodegradable bags are widely available at retailers.

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How to Green Everyone’s Wardrobe Every fall, even with back-to-school sales, buying clothes can be costly for families. Also, new togs take a toll on the planet: Most common synthetic fabrics are petroleum-based; and according to the Sustainable Cotton Project (Sustainable Cotton.org), 25 percent of all insecticides applied in this country, including known carcinogens, are used to grow cotton.

Perceived as a disposable commodity, garments purchased for growing children are typically discarded after serving only a fraction of their useful life, while teens dismiss outfits when fashions change. Adults often have closets full of items from when they weighed less.

Here are 10 commonsense ways to redress the problem and lighten the family’s ecological footprint.

Wash only as needed. Avoid wasting energy and water by washing clothing only when it’s dirty, rather than after a single gentle wearing; then drip- or line-dry.

Go unisex for tots. Siblings can wear family hand-me-downs and share basic items like shirts and pants.

Share. Family members, friends and neighbors can swap perfectly wearable fashions when they tire of them.

Help strangers. Charitable nonprofits, detailed on websites like DressFor Success.org (women’s business attire) OneWorldRunning.com (athletic gear sent to developing countries) and SalvationArmyUSA.org (caring for the homeless), all have on-the-ground networks in place to redistribute goods.

Give it back. Some brands take back and recycle their products. Nike (NikeReuseAShoe.com), for instance, repurposes any brand of worn-out athletic shoes in the making of new sports facilities.

Shop where you drop. When dropping off donated clothing and other items at a thrift or resale store, walk inside and see what’s for sale.

Read labels before purchasing. Some clothes require more maintenance that isn’t eco-friendly, such as special detergents, ironing or even dry cleaning, which typically uses toxic perchloroethylene (PERC)—unless it’s a green cleaning process.

Look for alternatives. Clothing made from organic, low-impact or recycled materials such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo and recycled fibers, is available in stores and online.

Dress casually. Dress suits for men and women require dry cleaning, so whenever possible, leave such fine attire in the closet.

Buy the good stuff. Brand names often live up to their advertising. Prestigious trademarks often get that way by producing better-made, more durable clothing and also protecting their image by avoiding exploitive practices. Check them out online via third-party evaluators.

Source: Adapted from BigGreenPurse.com.

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inspiration

Come Back to Your Senses A Childlike Spirit Shows the Way

by Clint Kelly

C

hildren know that the wonders of creation may be comprehended through the five senses; for what are the senses really, but five portals, or ways, of knowing? Watching any group of children for a time brings a distinct sense that they are closer to understanding all that the senses have to teach us.

They don’t just smell a flower; they inhale it. An ant is best observed not from a standing position, but on one’s belly. They do not simply taste something good and move on, they roll it around the tongue, lick it gradually and make it last. Children savor their senses, patiently waiting for the full story to emerge.

A child’s imagination is embellished by the senses to the point of celebration.

Children are teachable because they are hitting on all cylinders of human sensory perception and can never get enough. A child at play is a child with portals wide open.

If adults lived that way—hilariously, at full speed, unencumbered—how much more might they perceive and how much more might others perceive in them? To that child at play, there is something of God that is also in the rain, the mud and the untethered laughter that rings out from the puddle-splasher.

So, how do we come back to our senses? Revel in the little things. Cook together and discuss how every sense comes into play. One of many people’s favorite activities is to make organic popcorn, a wonderful object lesson in how all the senses work together to yield a pleasurable result. Hear it pop, smell its mouthwatering goodness, see how the kernels expand, taste the yummy results and feel the difference between popped and unpopped corn, lightly topped with natural salt.

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“Feely” bags are fun. Place a fruit or vegetable in a small sack or clean sock and have kids guess what’s inside by listening to the sound it makes when shaken, what it smells like, what it feels like and with eyes closed, what a small bite tastes like. Lastly, let them look inside.

We do well to keep our eyes peeled too, like children, and be amazed by all the ways life is continuously communicating with us.

Clint Kelly is the author of the Sensation series of thrillers, based on the human senses. He lives with his wife in the hightouch beauty of Washington State.

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Good Karma, Good Yoga, with the Good Hike

Balance Blesses Our Youth Wise Parenting Insights from Wendy Mogel

Race to Nowhere reveals the problems associated with America’s academic testing culture. What are the most critical weaknesses of today’s public school system?

It is breaking my heart to see enrichment programs sacrificed on the altar of standardized testing and such extreme focus on the core academic skills. We certainly want our children to have these skills, but we are losing sight of how much is learned through play, imagination, art and music.

High school students feel tremendous pressure to succeed. It seems that as a society, we are displacing our own

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linical Psychologist and author Wendy Mogel, Ph.D., is known for the practical parenting advice featured in her books, The Blessing of a Skinned Knee and The Blessing of a B Minus. She is a leading expert appearing in Race to Nowhere, a documentary film examining the achievementobsessed culture permeating America’s schools, and serves on the advisory board of Challenge Success, an organization that supports schools and families in reversing and preventing the unhealthy tolls assessed by our current educational system.

Speaking from the perspective of her “compassionate detachment” philosophy, Mogel explores the educational challenges that students face today and offers some solutions.

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anxieties about the unstable economy and the condition of the planet onto our children. As we try to arm them with a set of skills to face an uncertain future, we are also losing sight of who they are as individuals. Too often we overlook the reality that some young people are not natural scholars, athletes or gregarious leaders, but possess other equally worthy abilities.

How are such blind spots affecting our youths?

Students are paying the price for the pressure being put on them on multiple levels: Heavy backpacks are damaging their spines, sleep deprivation interferes with their learning process and expectation of perfection can lead to girls with eating disorders and demoralized boys with a desire to give up.

I routinely speak with students that feel compelled to personally end hunger in Rwanda while they must also score high grades in several advanced placement classes, excel in multiple extracurricular activities and maintain a slender figure.

Some of these same high school kids tell me they fear that scoring a B- on a quiz may cause their parents to divorce or drive their mothers into depression, partly based on some sense that adult pride and security rest on their children’s accomplishment.

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of work-life balance, exuberance and involvement for young people, healthy teacher-parent relationships are vital, as well. Anxious parents can sometimes act like bullies to teachers when they are concerned about their child’s success.

I encourage teachers to work with parents in a respectful and diplomatic way, without becoming defensive or taking anything too personally; I remind them that parents are often just nervous.

What advice do you have for parents of young children?

Encourage learning via this wonderful, natural world. Children are natural theologians, biologists, seekers of social justice, artists, poets and above all, explorers and inventors. We serve children well if we see them as seeds that came in a packet without a label. Our job is to provide sufficient food and water and pull the biggest weeds. We don’t know what kind of flower we’ll get or when it will bloom.

How can parents foster learning and success in all of their children at home?

A big piece of a parent’s responsibility is to clearly see each of their children for who they are, independent of parental preconceptions and dreams, and to foster that individual’s strengths and enthusiasm for life, instead of struggling to fit him or her into society’s narrow definitions of success.

A snapshot taken of a child today should not be confused with the epic movie of his or her entire life.

Good parents model balance; but the default position in our culture has become overindulgence, overprotection, overscheduling and expectations of perfection. When parents pick their kids up from school, instead of cross-examining them about test scores and who they sat with at lunch, a mom or dad can share something delightful about their own day; something interesting they saw or did or thought that reminded them of their son or daughter.

Communicate that it’s a pleasure to be a parent and an adult. Show them that as grownups, we continue to learn new things. Inspire them to want to be happy adults and parents.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Championing a Broader Vision of Success

by Meredith Montgomery

C

hallenge Success (ChallengeSuccess.org), a project of Stanford University’s School of Education, works with schools, parents and youths to develop and institute customized action plans to improve student well-being and engagement. According to the nonprofit organization’s cofounder, Denise Pope, Ph.D., “We recognize the great pressure being put on today’s kids in regard to performance, tests and grades. Unfortunately, this is keeping many of them from becoming resilient, motivated, active contributors in society. Our initiative provides a voice of reason, translating research into actions that allow students to thrive.”

Offerings include practical and engaging classes, online courses and videos for parents that help them learn best practices for their children. As one example, “We encourage parents to avoid overscheduling,” says Pope.

“Every child needs playtime, downtime and family time every day.”

For schools seeking reform, Challenge Success offers dynamic conferences in which a team of administrators, teachers, parents and students, led by a consulting coach, creates site-specific strategies for change.

Proven tips for fostering balance at home: Have fun: Unstructured playtime for young children is important, as is free time for teens to socialize and pursue hobbies.

Relax: Permit time for rest and rejuvenation. Encourage self-directed relaxation through reading and playing or listening to music, while moderating screen time.

Connect as a family: Aim for at least 20 minutes of daily family time. Enjoy meals together, consider going for a family walk or designate an “unplugged” time for everyone.

Ideas for schools and teachers to explore: Revise school schedules and homework policies. Consider block schedules, trimesters or a later start to the school day. Schedule quarterly “no homework” nights and/or “off weeks”, when no testing is allowed.

Emphasize projects and problem-based learning. Achievement improves when students are engaged in hands-on learning. Make daily assignments relevant to students’ lives and try assigning a final project in lieu of a final exam.

Explore alternative and authentic forms of assessment. Because not all students perform well on tests, multiple forms of assessment, such as narrative reports, writing assignments or creative projects, can augment scores to more effectively reveal where teachers need to focus attention.

Enhance the climate of care. Encourage positive student/faculty relationships, so that teachers are approachable and accessible. Establish stress reduction and relaxation techniques, plus mindfulness activities.

Educate students, parents and teachers to work together. Sponsor professional development workshops for faculty on the causes of student stress and coping strategies. Empower students to find the “right fit” college or post-secondary path, while debunking the myth that there is only one path to success.

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SOCCER’S A KICK FOR FAMILY FITNESS

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Summer Olympics Highlights the Excitement

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by Randy Kambic

In many other countries, soccer is known as football, or even “the beautiful game,” because the grace and style of play is often considered as important as the final score. While less popular than other professional sports in this country, soccer’s suitability and benefits for today’s children have spawned its own American subculture.

W

ith the 2012 Summer Olympic Games underway from July 27 through August 12, in London, many soccer moms and dads will be watching live or recorded matches with their children gathered around the TV. Among the 28 national male and female teams competing internationally, the U.S. women’s team brings special excitement as the defending Olympic champions in their division. Their shared enthusiasm is sure to inspire some family soccer ball kick-around action in the yard or a local park.

Soccer is an ideal physical outlet for boys and girls because it’s considerably less violent than football; provides a great cardio workout; builds thought processes

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in employing strategies; instills teamwork, camaraderie and sportsmanship; and can facilitate meeting youngsters of various backgrounds. It also provides an easy and enjoyable way for parents to get some exercise while bonding with their children.

US Youth Soccer, as part of the U.S. Soccer Federation, the national governing body, involves 3 million-plus youngsters ages 5 through 19 in soccer leagues, camps and local programs annually. Its yearly Youth Soccer Month, in September, will feature many community events, tips and discussions.

Susan Boyd, of Mequon, Wisconsin, spent 15 years taking two of her sons to and from practices and matches from junior games all the way through high school teams. “Every time they play is a highlight for me,” she says. “Win, lose

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August 2012

19

or draw, they have such a passion for the game. You all get caught up in the power of the play and the magic of the moment.”

A part-time writing instructor at Carroll University, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Boyd has been posting weekly parental advice blogs on USYouthSoccer.org for four years. One suggests that if field conditions are damp, parents should bring gallon-size baggies to protect the car’s floor from the mud of soccer shoes, plus a change of clothes for the players. In another, she asks parents “not to be snooty or pompous” if their child’s team is better than the opposition and to “have more patience with referees that don’t meet your standard of perfection in calls.”

Because soccer calls for near-constant movement—running with or toward the ball or walking into a better position on the field—it’s an effective antidote to childhood obesity. The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition (Fitness.gov) suggests that children get one hour or more a day in either moderate or vigorous aerobic physical activity. For adults, the recommendation is at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day, or 75 minutes a

The number of youth soccer players in the United States has doubled since 1990, to more than 4 million players. ~U.S. Soccer Federation week of vigorous aerobic activity. Playing or practicing soccer skills definitely meets the criteria.

Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics Association (HealthyChildren. org) cited soccer as a way for children to be physically active while they learn teamwork and sportsmanship. It also noted that the most common player injuries are minor sprains and strains, followed by bruises.

Boyd advises, “Most of these require rest, ice, compression and elevation for the injured area, and a week away from the sport. Don’t rush children back onto the field; think long-term.”

Current and longtime U.S. national

Olympic team member Christie Rampone, of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, notes that because soccer doesn’t involve the hands, “Youngsters get used to using other, different muscle groups, allowing for optimal strength and coordination.” She suggests that parents have children also note some non-action elements of the sport, such as the communication occurring on the soccer field.

Even when people in the stands are loudly shouting encouragement, players are talking with each other and using body language to enhance their team play. “Point out to kids the positive emotions and energy expressed when things don’t go well. Even though the game can be frustrating at times, learn from how the players stay poised and focused throughout the match.”

Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , a l s o v i s i t USSoccer.com and nbcOlympics.com.

Randy Kambic, who played soccer in school, is a freelance writer and editor in Estero, FL, and a copyeditor for Natural Awakenings.

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that while the experience of winning is a healthy one, the value of life-lessons learned from playing sports far surpasses that of any victory. “I can hardly remember the result of any youth game I participated in; however, I can remember the name of the coach and how he positively influenced my life.”

Traditionally a primarily international sport, the game of soccer is a growing force in America, and Baldwin and Mobile Counties provide ample evidence of the love that exists for the game locally. Tie up your boots, head to the field and join in the fun.

Finding Your Feet Around Mobile Bay

by Josh Montgomery

O

n any given Tuesday or Thursday night under the lights of Trione Park, in Daphne, you can catch a glimpse of the local soccer community.

High-schoolers, college students and adults of all ages come together to play in an adult league that runs for three to six weeks, three times a year. Organized by Fairhopian Steven Hazelwood, this open, co-ed league highlights all the best qualities of soccer and fosters a true passion for the game for those involved.

“We encourage participation of all skill levels,” says Hazelwood. “We play in a 7 versus 7 short field format, that encourages fair play with a strict no-slide tackle rule.”

Teams are comprised of fathers and sons, longtime friends, ex-teammates, brothers and sisters and even coaches and their former players. Spectators on the sidelines enjoy seeing their parents, siblings and friends play "the beautiful game."

With soccer's rich tradition in Mobile and Baldwin counties, this scene is regularly replicated throughout the Gulf Coast region.

Opportunities for youth to get involved in the sport locally are bountiful, as well.

Fairhope and Daphne both have vibrant recreational soccer programs for youth ages 4 to 17, and a larger recreational program for Mobile residents is currently in the works. Children that are new to the game will find enjoyment in these programs, and parents can be directly involved in the fun by serving as volunteer coaches. The Catholic Church is also involved in running local leagues on both sides of the bay through the Catholic Youth Organization.

The newly formed Mobile Bay Football Club (MBFC), which combined Fairhope's Blast Football Club and Mobile Soccer Club, offers more competitive levels of play through its academy and travel programs.

MBFC provides professional coaching for players that are looking for a higher level of play and are willing to take on a bigger commitment. Tryouts are held for youth ages 8 to 17 each summer.

Jamie Ferguson, the director of coaching at Mobile Bay Football Club, points out

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Josh Montgomery holds a USSF National C coaching license and USSF National Youth Coaching license. He teaches upper-school history and is head of the girls soccer program at Bayside Academy, and also coaches for MBFC.

LOCAL RESOURCES Catholic Youth Organization MobileArchdiocese.org Daphne Strike Soccer Club DaphneStrikeSoccer.com Eastern Shore Adult Soccer Club Facebook: Eastern Shore Adult Soccer Club Mobile Bay Football Club BlastFC.net Mobile United Soccer Club MobileUnitedFC.com Perdido Bay Football Club PerdidoBayFC.com

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naturalpet

Cancer Prevention and Treatment

An Integrative Approach

by Dr. Shawn Messonnier

O

f all pet diseases, cancer is the most feared. While modern science has been able to cure some variations—most commonly by surgical removal of small tumors—many cancers have usually advanced and spread by the time they are diagnosed. Most pets in advanced stages cannot be cured, but can be successfully treated, thus prolonging their life.

Through choosing an integrative approach that combines natural therapies with conventional techniques, most cancer patients in my practice live one-and-a-half to two times longer than if the owners relied solely on conventional methods. Targeted natural therapies can not only make the conventional more effective, they work to reduce side effects and allow pets to feel much better.

Conventional Thinking

Cancer develops from damage to a cell’s DNA. Conventional therapies for pets include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. When feasible, applications quickly kill as many cancer cells as possible, putting the pet into remission. Deciding on the preferred treatment depends on such factors as the type of cancer, age of the pet, ease of administration of the treatment, cost and owner concerns.

When considering such a step, pet owners should have a serious discussion with their veterinary oncologist about the pros and cons of each option, including potential benefits for the pet. In general, pets experience fewer side effects from conventional cancer therapies than their human counterparts.

Natural Therapies

Numerous natural therapies can be integrated into a holistic treatment protocol to help pet cancer patients. Pivotal basics 22

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

outlined in this article are included in a more thorough explanation of options in The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs.

Diet is vital. Most pet foods, especially dry foods, contain excess grain carbohydrates and inadequate amounts of protein and fat. Most cancer patients do better when grain-based carbohydrates are reduced and protein and fat, specifically fatty acids such as fish oil, are increased. Fish oil is highly beneficial in killing cancer cells and inhibiting their spreading, along with relieving inflammation that can cause further cancer cell growth.

Simply following the label’s dose for fish oil is not adequate, as this dose is designed to maintain normal-looking skin and hair, but not work medically to reduce inflammation and cell damage. The correct dosage varies with the weight of the pet, but in general, pets with cancer benefit from 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams of EPA+DHA twice daily, based on the veterinarian’s recommendation.

Antioxidants are also crucial in reducing oxidation that causes cell damage and creates cancer. Good supplements contain several different antioxidants, including vitamins and minerals, quercetin and other bioflavonoids, and Coenzyme Q-10. Adding antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits to the pet’s regular diet is similarly helpful. Good choices include dark green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts and brightly colored vegetables such as carrots and peppers.

Similarly, supplements to boost the immune system can help a patient stay cancer-free as long as possible. Supplements such as green tea, medicinal mushrooms such as maitake or coriolus, vitamin D, astragalus and arabinogalac-

tans are particularly helpful.

Detoxifying herbs such as milk thistle and homeopathic detoxifying remedies such as berberis, nux vomica and lymphomyosot are also useful.

Because cancer is a toxic disease, when conventional therapies add further toxins (such as chemotherapy and radiation) to the equation, the body can become easily overwhelmed. Therefore, an aggressive detoxification protocol is helpful, as well.

These elements comprise a general protocol that is beneficial for most, if not all, pets diagnosed with cancer. Individualized therapy and choosing supplements specific to the type of cancer afflicting the pet are important. Every cancer is different, so every treatment will be different.

Cancer Prevention Tips

Pet parents can take several steps to reduce the risk of a pet contracting cancer. Feed them the best diet possible, devoid of chemical additives and byproducts. Reduce vaccinations as much as possible, which can damage a pet’s immune system. Also, avoid unnecessary prescription medications, including chemical flea and tick control products, which can also negatively affect functioning of the immune system. In combination, these measures work to reduce the toxic load to a pet’s body and support optimal health.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier has authored numerous books, including The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs and Breast Choices for the Best Chances. For more information on health care for people and pets, visit PetCareNaturally.com.

The Natural Awakenings Network (NAN)

Directory of Discount Providers Enjoy using your NAN Card to save at all of the businesses listed below!

YOUR NAME HERE

BEAUTY & SKINCARE

The directory of local providers is published quarterly. A current list of providers and details of the discounts they offer is always available at NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com. To search local providers, use "MBAL" in the keyword search. Going on vacation? Cards are valid at businesses throughout the country and in Puerto Rico.

Green Clean

Mobile, 251-767-5230 20% discount

Baldwin County, 251-508-3796 15% off every 4th cleaning service, 10% off cleaning kits with each deep clean service

Locs of Soul

Household Termite

Glow Wellness Studio

and Pest Control Mobile, 240-515-4388 $10 off natural styles, $4 off barber cuts Mobile & Baldwin Counties, 251-943-7874 Made in the Shea 3 mos free with 1 yr pest control MadeInTheShea.com, 251-408-2148 agreement; $100 termite bonds Free shipping on online orders Mami Creations

MamiCreations.com, 925-215-0545 10% off all orders, Free shipping on orders of $75+

Warlocks Hair Salon

Fairhope, 251-929-1899 10% off laser therapy (hair restoration)

CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS & SERVICES Lily Pads Children’s Consignment Boutique

Daphne, 251-621-0337 15% discount (excludes special orders)

The Little Gym

Fairhope, 251-626-9858 10% discount on enrollment, $15 off Birthday Bash

Planet Gymnastics

Mobile, 251-650-0699 20% off first session, $10 off all birthday parties

CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractic Life Center

Institute for Sustainability Education and Development Mobile, 251-404-3924 25% off coaching packages; 20% off seminars and workshops; Free business listing in Coastal Woman magazine

Rosie Blu

David’s Gallery

Gulf Shores, 251-948-7862 25% off inhalation therapy products

ESSENTIAL OILS Healthy Living with Essential Oils

Mobile, 251-656-6696 10% discount, Free shipping on orders over $150

Laurie Azzarella

Daphne, 251-625-0080 Save $80 on an essential oil starter package

FITNESS & YOGA 5th Line Gyrotonic Studio

Fairhope, 251-209-9864 Fairhope, 251-517-5326 10% discount 15% discount, extra 5% on your birthday

Salt Removers Inc.

ACSaltRemover.com, 877-725-8851 15% off Air Conditioner Salt Remover

Coastal Ballet

Foley, 251-979-9851 Free first class, 10% off for new students

Sweet Home Cleaning Service everyBODY Solution Mobile & Baldwin Counties, 251-895-7185 10% discount

EDUCATION/SCHOOLS Good Shepherd Learning Center Bay Minette, 251-937-6001 10% off enrollment fee

Hermes Enchanted Garden Montessori-Influenced Childcare

Mobile, 251-380-0477 Daphne, 251-269-0022 1/2 off initial exam, 15% off office visits, 15% off first month’s tuition 10% off supplements and supplies

ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Lake Forest, 251-259-5037 Hillcrest, 251-344-8755 Midtown, 251-478-7219 Tillman’s Corner, 251-653-4707 10% off enrollment fee

Ocean Camp

Gulf Shores, 205-936-9892 $25 off summer camp session

Weinacker’s Montessori Daphne, 888-967-2445

Daphne, 251-621-3030 Zero enrollment on any personal training package

Fairhope Fitness 24

Fairhope, 251-929-2450 2 for 1 unlimited yoga and unlimited spinning for one month

Gulf Coast Martial Arts Foley, 251-979-6019 Free class for new students

Trinity Yoga

Foley, 251-609-5541 Buy 1 block of classes, get a second 1/2 off

The Yoga Center

Gulf Shores, 251-975-8687 10% discount on all group and private yoga sessions

FLORISTS Stemz

Foley, 251-943-2837 $10 off purchases of $50 or more

FOODS & NUTRITION Fairhope Health Foods

Fairhope, 251-928-0644 10% discount on regularly priced items

Grow Alabama

Statewide, 205-991-0042 10% off Grow Alabama Store purchases

The Health Food Center

Mobile, 251-661-3065 10% discount on Tuesdays

The Health Hut

Spanish Fort, 251-621-1865 Mobile, 251-633-0485 10% off non-food items

JusTeas & Peace Tea

Fairhope, 251-517-5626 15% discount, additional 5% on your birthday

Pneuma Yoga and Movement Studio

Lopez Family Chiropractic

Daphne, 251-458-6506 20% off class packages

Fairhope, 251-928-5058 20% off nutritional supplement or organic food item

Thrive Yoga and Massage

Orlando and Sons Produce

Fairhope, 251-379-4493 25% off yoga and massage

Contact us today! 251-990-9552

Gulf Shores, 251-948-4538 $5 off purchases of $25 or more

The Pure Vegan

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

Mobile, 251-510-2418 10% off personal chef services and wellness coaching

Blissful Massage

SouthPaws Pet Spa

Fairhope, 251-928-0750 5% off products, 10% off grooming

Eastern Shore and Mobile, PHOTOGRAPHY 404-822-4469 20% off massage and Pilates sessions Victoria Webb Photography Virginia’s Health Foods Mobile and Baldwin Counties, Mobile, 251-345-0494 Cynergy Massage 251-716-9699 10% discount on regularly priced items & Wellness Center 15% off portrait session; Free 11x14 Mobile, 251-633-2828 canvas print with wedding package GARDENING $10 off 1-hr massage

Blue Flower Gardens

Elements Therapeutic Massage

Fairhope, 251-929-3593 30% off organic, perennial garden installation

Mobile, 251-342-6415 $10 off any massage session

Healing Acres

HEALING ARTS

Robertsdale, 251-425-1863 $10 off colonics; $15 off massage

Alive with Adwiti Life Strategies Coach Foley, 251-609-1251 10% off all services

Momentum Massage Mobile, 251-470-9944 20% off any service; $5 off an extra treats

Delta Institute

Mobile, 251-219-4574 25% discount for first-time clients; 10% off for returning clients

Healing Arts

Rosie Bluum

Bon Secour, 251-979-9851 20% off single service; free consultation

MARI by Rosie

Fairhope, 251-517-5626 15% discount, additional 5% on your birthday

MEDITATION Meditation Center of Alabama

Mobile, 251-623-4485 Fairhope, 251-752-6509 Get 1 month free when you buy a 6 10% discount with an additional 5% on month membership your birthday

PET CARE

Reiki Center of Fairhope Fairhope, 251281-8811 $10 off any service

Heavenly Hounds

Loxley, 251-964-2750 $10 off training sessions

PREGNANCY & BABY PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Birthing From Within Childbirth Preparation Mobile, 251-554-5704 $50 off 8-week series of childbirth classes

Grassroots Holistic Health Coaching

Mobile, 256-282-1391 15% off classes & seminars, 20% off 6-month programs

Lotus Doulas

Alabama PaddleSports

Baldwin County, 251-279-0703 20% off stand up paddle board and kayak rentals

Coastal Dreams Travel

Gulf Shores, 205-936-9892 Free travel journal and insider tips

RESTAURANTS Bangkok Thai Cuisine

Hwy 90W, Mobile, 251-666-7788 Airport Blvd, Mobile, 251-344-9995 Daphne, 251-626-5286 15% discount at dinner with entree order

Moo Che Che Frozen Yogurt Spanish Fort, 251-626-9992 15% discount

Samurai J Sushi Bar Daphne, 251-621-1906 Mobile, 251-433-7644 10% discount

Smoothie King

Mobile, 251-300-5778 Airport Blvd, Mobile, 251-479-5464 20% off services; excludes photography University Blvd, Mobile, 251-341-0605 Daphne, 251-626-5464 My Baby Wears Cloth Foley, 251-981-1370 MyBabyWearsCloth.com, 1 Free enhancer w/smoothie purchase 251-423-8808 Free diaper with purchase of Sunflower Cafe $75 or more Fairhope, 251-929-0055 Mobile, 251-345-0495 RECREATION & TRAVEL 10% discount

5 Rivers Delta Safaris

Spanish Fort, 251-259-8531 $5 off any regular priced guided safari (tour boat or canoe/kayak)

Thai Orchid

Mobile, 251-639-9990 15% discount at dinner with entree

Learn more and order your card today: Tinyurl.com/NANCard.

How does it work? It's Easy!

Order your card online or over the phone, check the directory to find out where NAN Cards are accepted, present your card at time of purchase and enjoy discounts for 12 months!

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Create a balanced, healthy lifestyle with the Natural Awakenings Network (NAN).

DAPHNE

FOLEY

STUDIO WHITE LOTUS 1710 Main Street, Daphne 251-445-4225 StudioWhiteLotus.com

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Charlene Rester, RN, LMT Located inside Align Chiropractic 117 W Orange Avenue 251-952-5555

FAIRHOPE

MOBILE

EASTERN SHORE MASSAGE James Horechny, LMT 811 Fairhope Avenue 251-458-8477 JamesHorechny@yahoo.com MOONSTONE MASSAGE Therapeutic Massage and Energy Work 17048 Scenic 98 251-517-5383, See ad on page 21.

ROSIE BLUUM 6A Bancroft Street 251-517-5626, RosieBluum.com See ad, page 28.

BELLA SUNDRIES WELLNESS STUDIO 6576 Airport Boulevard, Building C 251-458-8884 Bella.Sundries.Massage@gmail.com BellaSundries.Webs.com ELEMENTS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 6920 Airport Boulevard, Suite. 111 251-342-6415 TouchOfElements.com/Mobile Mobile@TouchOfElements.com

The Pure Vegan Wellness Services {A Shanti Warrior Company}

Health & Wellness Coaching Yoga Group Classes & Private Sessions Plant-Based Cooking Classes, Meal-delivery & Menu Consulting Tracey Winter Glover JD, RYT 200 AFPA Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Learn more at www.ThePureVegan.com tracey@thepurevegan.com • (251) 510-2418 Mobile / Baldwin Edition

MONTROSE JEN ADAMS, LMT 22787 US 98 at Parker Road Building D, Suite 5 251-616-4201 JenAdamsLMT.MassageTherapy.com JenAdams.Massage@gmail.com See ad on page 11.

ROBERTSDALE HEALING ACRES Massage, Reflexology, Colonics, Reiki 22355 Price Grubbs Road 251-423-1863 See ad on page 17.

This logo indentifies businesses that offer discounts to Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cardholders. See page 24 for details.

Eat Well. Live Well. Be Well.

26

KRISTIN M. ANLAGE, LMT 319 Pinehill Drive 251-753-6513 KristinAnlage@att.net

SCIATICA? BACK PAIN? HIP PAIN? POOR POSTURE? Relaxing 20 minutes daily on the Sacro Wedgy® may

be all you need. Placed under the sacrum, it allows the hips to suspend and relax, letting go of nerves and ultimately “rebalancing.”

The SACRO WEDGY®

For individual self-care and therapists.

Only $29.95.

Free demonstration with appointment.

www.sacrowedgy.com 251-653-9258 or 800-737-9295

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

healingways

BAREFOOTIN’: IT GROUNDS US Reap Earth’s Energy for Wellness

by Debra Melani

Imagine feeling the surge of well-being that comes from strolling barefoot on a moist, sandy beach or sinking all 10 toes into a cool, lush lawn on a warm summer day. Both comprise an experience known as “grounding” or “earthing”. Recent research suggests that these tempting life experiences offer more than feel-good frolics; they might help reboot health.

“B

y the end of the day, I could hardly walk. My feet would be screaming,” relates Lynn Deen, 66, of Mio, Michigan, describing dealing with Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis in both heels. “I struggled with it for four years. I tried everything, from conventional treatments to complementary therapies.

Nothing touched it.”

Then Deen listened to an online interview about earthing, a therapy that involves connecting with the Earth’s electrical field, either through skin-to-ground contact (barefoot strolls) or by using home grounding products available online. Motivated by a yearning to maintain her active lifestyle, she decided to try it. Three months later, she attested, “My heels were completely

normal.” And because she opted to use a special earthing bedsheet, Deen says her husband benefited, too. “We have better sleep, less snoring and a better sense of well-being,” she reports.

Theoretically, because the waterabundant human body is a good electrical conductor, such grounding allows negatively charged free electrons, which are rife on the Earth’s surface, to enter the body and scour it for free radicals: those positively charged particles that may cause disease and inflammation.

“Most of the diseases today are related to chronic inflammation,” says Dr. Martin Gallagher, a physician and chiropractor who heads Medical Wellness Associates, a large integrative medicine clinic in Jeannette, Pennsylvania. “That inflammation is considered to be the buildup of positive electrons. The Earth’s free electrons neutralize these chemical buzz bombs, called free radicals, bringing the body back to homeostasis. It is that state of equilibrium that allows the body to heal.”

Today’s lifestyles have nearly eliminated that natural healing effect, says James Oschman, director of the Nature’s Own Research Association, in Dover, New Hampshire. “When I was a kid, my shoes came off in the spring and didn’t come back on until fall,” Oschman recalls. Today, almost everybody wears plastic-soled shoes, rides in vehicles and hangs out indoors on carpet and wood or tiled floors, completely blocking these free electrons, which Oschman maintains are the most effective and efficient antioxidants available. He states, “We’ve experienced a total disconnect.”

His claim is supported by small studies that are beginning to accumulate, indicating the potential benefits of grounding. Here is a sampling of the findings, from The Journal of

Eco-Friendly Marketing Ask us about stylish e-newsletters, recycled paper options and more.

Web Sites | Design | Marketing

info@opteracreative.com | 251. 960 . 5438 opteracreative.com natural awakenings

August 2012

27

B-Butterfly THE SALON

Keeping You & The Earth Beautiful Come in and try our new organic hair treatments to repair your dry scalp and summer, sun-bleached hair!

Visit B-Butterfly for organic hair color, perms & shampoo.

Pedicures, manicures and eyebrow waxing also available.

Call today for a free consultation: 251-990-9934 103A North Bancroft Street in Fairhope www.bbutterflysalon.com

A CENTER FOR HEALING ... A CENTER FOR LEARNING Permaculture Design Passive and Active Solar Rainwater Collection Humanure Composting Greywater Recycling Shiitake Cultivation Biodynamics

Holistic Consultation Energy Work Color Therapy Essential Oils Flower Essences Qi Gong Chartres Labyrinth

Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center Citronelle, AL 251-866-7204

MidEarthHealing@yahoo.com * www.middleearthhealing.com

Celebrate Summer...

Have fun. Shop funky. Be free.

Stop by to smell the flowers,

{Now selling locally-grown fresh flowers to brighten your home and spirit.}

and nourish the glow of your summer skin, naturally. {Experience our organic and vegan skin and body care products.}

Rosie Blu

Live your life unedited...

422 Fairhope Ave in Fairhope • 251.517.5326 • www.rosieblu.com

Rosie Bluum An alternative wellness center providing holistic therapies,

products and events that nurture the mind, body and spirit.

Massage • Natural Facials • Reiki • MARI • Meditation Reflexology • Energy Therapies Intuitive Readings Chakra Balancing • Tonal Therapy • Craniosacral Therapy Crystals • Aromatherapy • Flower Essences

6A Bancroft, Downtown Fairhope • 251.517.5626 • RosieBluum.com

28

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

Helped the body’s natural healing response. Researchers compared physiological changes during a two-hour grounding session of 14 men and 14 women and then a two-hour sham session. Changes in respiration and heart rates plus blood oxygenation within 20 minutes of grounding appeared to aid the healing process, reports lead author Gaetan Chevalier, Ph.D., director of the Earthing Institute. He notes that as in previous studies, subjects with acute inflammation experienced less swelling, redness, heat and pain.

Improved sleep and reduced pain and stress. Researchers grounded 12 patients looking for these benefits while they slept.

Comparing their cortisol levels (a stressrelated hormone) prior to the eight-week study with results from periodic retesting and follow-up interviews, they found that grounding reduced nighttime levels of cortisol and better aligned its secretion with the body’s natural 24-hour circadian rhythm, which is important for sleep. Subjects reported improvements in all three areas.

Decreased muscle pain. Researchers looked at blood counts and chemistry in eight active exercisers, following routines that assured muscle soreness. Four subjects treated with grounding techniques showed a boosted immune response and reported reduced pain.

Oschman says that some professional athletes swear by the practice, including members of four U.S. Tour de France teams (between 2003 and 2007) that were grounded nightly during the competitions.

Gallagher, who estimates that 70 percent of his patients consciously practice grounding, sees improvement in conditions including heart disease, arthritis, chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, attention deficit disorder, allergies, asthma, menopausal symptoms, sleep apnea and jet lag. Judged safe for all ages, blood-thinners present the only known complication, so heart patients should consult their doctors.

“This is like the relationship of vitamin D from sunlight,” concludes Gallagher. “We are receiving something that is integral to our design, part of our nature. Earthing isn’t an intellectual concept; it’s a necessity of life.”

Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health, medicine and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at Debra Melani.com or DMelani@msn.com.

calendarofevents All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Go to HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com to submit entries. Mark Your Calendar events are $40.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 10% Discount on Downloads – All downloads are 10% off in August. 251-609-1251. Alive@ AliveWithAdwiti.com. StressReliefCDs.com.

Gulf Shores Meditation Flash Mob – 6-6:15pm. All are welcome to this monthly meditation on the public beach. Meets rain or shine with a nearby pavilion serving as the rain site. Lifeguard chair number 1, Gulf Place Public Beach, Gulf Shores. 251-609-6999.

Facebook.com/MedMobGCA.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 Winged Migration Movie Presentation – 7pm. This critically acclaimed documentary of migrating birds through 40 countries and every continent captured using a variety of airborne vehicles, allows an intimate look at their subjects. From Academy Awardnominated Director Jacques Perrin. 2002 Academy Award Nominee for Best Documentary. $10 donation.

1230 Montlimar Dr, Mobile, 36609. 251-343-0777.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 Quantum-Touch Level One – Aug 4-5. 9:30am5:30pm. Quantum-Touch works deep in the cellular level by raising your energy. This creates an environment for the innate healing intelligence of our body to activate. The results are amazingly fast!

Certified Instructor Julie E Brent. 13 Massage/Nursing CEs available. Prepaid $299.00. Reiki Center of Fairhope. 20730 Hwy 181 Ste B, Fairhope. 251281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com.

ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com.

Remembering Samadhi: Weekend Workshops – 1-4pm, Aug 4 and 9am-12pm, 2-5pm, Aug 5. Moira Anderson, E-RYT 500 of River Rock Yoga in Ocean Springs, MS, will lead exploration through forward folds and twists (Sat), hip-openers and backbends (Sun), and restorative postures (Sun) as a tool to connect with your peaceful true nature. $40/session. $100/weekend. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 5 Vegan 101: Dressing Up Your Main Dish Summer Salads – 12-2pm. Let's re-define the salad! Creative nutrient dense salads make a great main dish during the summer heat. Learn to create a variety of main dish salads and salad dressings including Greek salad with marinated tofu "feta" and creamy dill dressing. $25 or 2 people for $45. Virginia's Health Foods, Mobile. 251-510-2418. Tracey@ThePureVegan.com.

ThePureVegan.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 10 Sunset Yoga on the Bluff – 6:30-8pm. Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month teachers donate their time to lead yoga overlooking the bay to raise funds for a charity of their choice. Bring your own mat and a friend. Beginner friendly classes. Meredith Montgomery’s class will raise money for Ti Bwat Nou (protects the basic human rights of Alabama’s sick-poor by providing access to social medicine and

social justice help). Donation. Fairhope. 251-379-4493.

ThriveFairhope.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 11 Muscle Testing and EFT Workshop – 10am-12pm.

Diana Sturm, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Delta Institute located in Mobile, will be facilitating our essential oil workshop this month. She will be demonstrating and explaining the use of muscle testing, specifically for allergies, and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique). $10. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar Dr, Mobile. Judith Wilson: 251-656-6696 or Sue Sides: 232-2292.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 14 Chickasabogue 2-Miler – 6:30pm. Two mile out and back on paved, flat road; certified course. Old T-shirts will be given free; no awards for race. Grand Prix and Corporate Cup awards given out at great post race party. Bring covered dish. $10. Chickasabogue Park, Saraland. PCPacers.org. 251-473-7223.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 18 Reiki Level I & II Certification Weekend – Aug 18-19. 9:30am-6pm. Usui Reiki Level I & II. Licensed Instructor with International Center for Reiki Training: Dianne Thomas. 18 Massage CEs; 14.75 Nursing CEs. $350.00 with a $150.00 non-refundable deposit. Reiki Center of Fairhope. 20730 Hwy 181 Suite B, Fairhope.

251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com.

ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com.

Global MedMob – 6pm. Imagine the whole world meditating together. On this day MedMobs around the globe will be meditating together. No experience necessary. Please join us. Fairhope Municipal Pier Fountain. Visit Facebook: Meditation Flash Mob: Gulf Coast Alabama.

EXCITE YOUR SPIRIT. SATISFY YOUR SOUL.

Peru

10 Days/$2495* Choose Your

ver y Journey of Disco Marvel at the impossible wonders and beauty of these ancient lands with one of the most fascinating and rewarding travel adventures you will ever experience.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study 3 Enrollment – Aug 21-25. By appointment.

To better understand ways to prevent cancer, the American Cancer Society is recruiting participants for its historic Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3).

Infirmary Health Locations, YMCA of South Alabama Locations and Meyer Vacation Rentals. For more information or to enroll call 888-604-5888 or visit CPS3SouthAlabama.org.

Essential Oil Workshop – 9-11am. Healing Oils of the Bible. Learn about the benefits of essential oils and why they were given to the Christ child. Free. Pete Allen Room at the Westminster Village, 500 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort. Judith Wilson: 251-656-6696.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 24 Sunset Yoga on the Bluff – 6:30-7:45pm. Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month teachers donate their time to lead yoga overlooking the bay to raise funds for a charity of their choice. Bring your own mat and a friend. Beginner friendly classes. Tracey Glover’s class will be taught to raise money for SouthBark. Donation.

Fairhope. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com.

China 10 Days/$2595*

Reserve Your Journey Today 1 (877) 801-7420

AwakeningJourneys.net *Roundtrip airfare from the US to China/Peru is not included in the tour price and can be arranged on your own or with help from Regent Tours.

natural awakenings

August 2012

29

SAUTRDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Bhakti Caravan Kirtan & Dinner Party – 6-9pm.

Bhakti Caravan brings the yoga of sound through high frequency vibrations and the yoga of food with high prana, fresh blessed food. Enjoy a night of kirtan and share a vegetarian meal with friends and yogis. $25/dinner. $15/kirtan. Plantation Antiques Gallery, Mobile. SwanRiverYoga.com.

Gulf Shores Meditation Flash Mob – 6-6:15pm. All are welcome to this monthly meditation on the public beach. Meets rain or shine with a nearby pavilion serving as the rain site. Lifeguard chair number 1, Gulf Place Public Beach, Gulf Shores. 251-609-6999.

Facebook.com/MedMobGCA.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Mobile/Baldwin Yoga Week Kick-off Event – 3-5pm. Celebrate Yoga Month with the Mobile/ Baldwin community! Meet local yoga teachers, learn about yoga and participate in a 60 min all-levels group practice at 3:30pm. There will be a supervised kids yoga area, so bring the whole family. Bring your own mat or towel and a water bottle. Free. Cathedral Square, downtown Mobile. Rain site: Space 301. 251990-9552. TinyURL.com/YogaWeek.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 The Practice of Meditation Class – 6-8pm., Wednesdays, Sept 12-Oct 17. CA course on mindfulness meditation taught by Dr. Zemula Camphor Bjork. Learn to quiet the mind, along with the science and history of meditation. $99. USA Campus. Registration: 251-405-9928.

ongoingevents All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication and adhere to guidelines. Go to HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com to submit entries.

Spirit. Donation. One mile north of US Hwy 104.

Unity on the Eastern Shore, 22979 US Hwy 98, Montrose. 251-990-8934. UnityEasternShore.org.

sunday

Sunday Worship – 11am. Celebrate Spirit in this special and sacred space. Between Hillcrest and Knollwood. Unity Mobile, 5859 Cottage Hill, Mobile. 251-661-1788.

Discounts on Supplements – Every Sunday get 15% off supplements at Fairhope Health Foods, 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope. 251-9280644.

Give Us This Day, Our Daily Bread – Inspirational quotes. We all need a little inspiration from time to time. ShantiWarrior.com/DailyBread.

Center for Spiritual Living Service – 10am. Make every step, every choice, every word, a conscious one. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar, Mobile. Rev. Sherrie Quander: 251-343-0777.

CenterForSpiritualLiving-Mobile.org.

Sunday Service – 10:30am. Explore a spiritual pathway with Mobile Unitarian Universalists, 6345 Old Shell Rd, Mobile. UUFM.org.

Sunday Service – 10:30am. Questioning, understanding and growing together spiritually as we enjoy the adventure of life. Center for Joyful Living, 60 N Ann St, Mobile. 251-391-6960.

Sunday Worth-ship Celebration – 10:30am. Find, strengthen and celebrate a connection with Divine

Foundations Yoga – 2:15-3:30 pm. Learn and practice the basics of yoga in a slow paced class format.

This is a great introduction (or re-intro) to yoga practice. $15. Yoga Birds 209 S Section St, Fairhope.

251-990-3447. YogaBirds.com.

Align & Flow Yoga w/Amanda Barfield – 4-5:15pm.

Alignment based flow class for beginners to seasoned yogis. Opportunity to make the transition from the weekend to the work week one of fluidity and ease.

Come together to breathe, play, laugh & move. $5/1st time, $10/preregister, $15/drop in. Integrated Fitness, Fairhope. 251-554-4121. IntegratedFitnessFairhope.com.

Open Table: A Community of Faith Worship Service (United Church of Christ) – 5pm. Weekly progressive Christian worship. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1050 Azalea Rd, Mobile. 251-545-1011.

Ellen.OpenTable@gmail.com. OpenTableUCC.org.

OrganicProduce OrganicMeats

Holistic Pet Food OrganicWine

Essential Oils

Books

Supplements

AlabamaOrganicMilk Wheat&Gluten-Free

Bath&BodyProducts GreenCleaningProducts dairy-free BabyProducts Sports Nutrition

Offering full organic lunch menus featuring free-range meats, farm-fresh produce, organic wines and options for special dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free).

Asian Fusion • Mediterranean Italian • Tex-Mex • Thai Pizza • Sandwiches • Pasta • Salads Catering & take-out available. Menus online. Call for specials.

Try our delicious Sunday Brunch in Fairhope from 10:30 am to 2 pm!

Bulk Spices, Herbs & Teas

Wellness begins here.

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Ctr 251-928-0644

3952 Airport Blvd in Mobile 251-345-0494

15% off regular priced supplements every Sunday!

August Special:

Located next door to Fairhope Health Foods & inside Virginia’s Health Foods in Mobile.

Fairhope: 251-929-0055

20% off Health Force & New Chapter products. 15% off Barlean’s products

Mon-Sat 10:30am-4pm; Sunday Brunch 10:30am-2pm

Mobile: 251-345-0495

Mon-Sat 10:30am-3pm; Closed Sundays

Visit VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com and follow us on Facebook for Monthly Specials!

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Natural Awakenings Network Cardholders receive 10% off of all store & cafe purchases!

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

monday 10% Discount – Monday appointments receive 10% discount. 251-609-1251. Alive@AliveWithAdwiti. com. AliveWithAdwiti.com.

Yoga in the Yurt – 9-10am. No experience necessary. Increase flexibility, strength and balance through the gentle stretching and poses of yoga.

Instructor Rosie Denton has practiced and taught yoga for many years. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and a pillow. Pay what you can (suggested $7-$12). Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center, Citronelle. 251-866-7204. MidEarthHealing@ yahoo.com. MiddleEarthHealing.com.

Power Yoga with Lynette – 9:15-10:15am. Blends Pilates and yoga (primarily Pilates) and traditional strength training exercises with emphasis on the core. May include the use of stability balls, light weights or resistance bands. Promotes mind-bodybreath connection focusing on quality movements. $5/1st time. $10/preregister. $15/drop-in. Integrated Fitness-Fairhope. 251-554-4121. IntegratedFitnessFairhope.com.

Eyes on Living, Baldwin County Low Vision Support Group – 10-11:30am. Third Mon. Anyone who has or knows someone with vision loss or impairment is welcome in the Single Tax room at Fairhope Library. Free. Shelia Tetley: 251-929-2169.

Gentle Yoga with Dana – 4:15pm. Join Dana for a calming yoga class to ease your stress and both sooth and quiet your mind. Find your bliss in the land of "ahhhhs.” Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile.

251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Align & Flow – 6-7:15pm. Join Amanda Elizabeth Barfield for fun and funky flow! This class is a combination of alignment-based flow yoga, upbeat music, and intermediate level pinnacle poses. Pose variations are available to all levels of practitioners. $5/1st time, $10/preregister, $15/drop in. Integrated Fitness, Fairhope. 251-554-4121. IntegratedFitnessFairhope.com.

Flow & Form Yoga – 6-7pm. Join us for this alignment based vinyasa flow class. Focus is placed on alignment in postures and breath. $10. Yoga Birds 209 S Section St., Fairhope. 251-990-3447. YogaBirds.com.

La Leche League Enrichment Meeting – 6:30pm.

Last Mon. La Leche League provides encouragement, information and support for nursing and expectant mothers. Free. Call for location. 251689-2085.

Mindful Flow Yoga – 6:30pm. Join Nadine Dalati, RYT 200 for a flowing, breath-focused yoga class with emphasis on safety in the postures. Great for beginners. Located on Old Shell Rd near Hillcrest Rd. Pay What You Can. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, on Old Shell Rd near Hillcrest Rd, Mobile.

251-202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Pranic Healing and Meditation – 6:30pm. Come experience healing for your mind, body and soul. We address specific physical and emotional ailments, followed by the Meditation on Twin Hearts. Let us take the stress off and balance your aura. Classes also available. CEU's -LMTs and Nurses. $10 donation.

Mobile. Deana: 251-454-0959.

tuesday Rise and Shine Yoga – 6:30-7:45am. Tues and Thurs. Start the day with an invigorating Hatha Yoga

practice. Class includes a mixture of flow yoga, Pranayama, restorative and meditation. Fellowship, coffee and some of mom's homemade bread follows. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Highway 98 East, Foley. 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541.

Tuesday Morning Yoga with Tracey, RYT 200 – 9:30am. Join Tracey for an all-levels 75 min flow yoga class incorporating all the yogic tools at our disposal to quiet and expand our minds, open our hearts, release anxiety and depression, and find the peace, freedom, and wholeness we all crave. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio, Mobile. Tracey@ ShantiWarrior.com.

La Leche League Series Meeting – 10:30am. Second Tues. La Leche League provides encouragement, information and support for nursing and expectant mothers. Free. Call for location. 251-689-2085.

Gentle Yoga with Martha – 12pm. Take a break in the middle of your day. Join Martha Collier for a relaxing class to sooth your spirit, calm your mind, and replenish your soul. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

LA Hikers Meeting – 6-7pm. First Tues. Free and open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort. LAHikerMeetings.Blogspot.com.

Energize and Relax Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Tues and Thurs. This class emphasizes flow yoga with Pranayama and some Kundalini. Meditation follows the energizing portion to calm in preparation for the day. $7/drop-in, $50/10 class package, $75/family.

Trinity Yoga Studio, Hwy 98 East, Foley. 251-9871147 or 251-609-5541.

Positive Parenting Class – 6-8pm. Kids don’t come with a set of instructions. Learn tools and skills to create a happy, healthy family. Free. The Family Center, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Ste 100, Mobile. 251-479-5700.

Kids101@comcast.net.

Sierra Club Meeting – 6-8pm. First Tues. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort.

Foundations Yoga – 6:15pm. Learn and practice the basics of yoga in a slow paced class format. $15.

Yoga Birds, 209 S Section St, Fairhope. YogaBirds. com. 251-990-3447.

Yoga for Beginners – 6:30pm. Join Kenny Jackson in a safe exploration of basic yoga postures, breathing, and meditation. Step-by-step instructions and modifications make the class appropriate for beginners of all levels. Pay What You Can. Daphne Recreation Department. 251-202-YOGA, KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Creative Spark Writing Group – 7-8pm. Love offering encouraged and appreciated. Rosie Bluum, 6 A Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. First Tues. For pro-paddlers and those brand new to the sport. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort. BayKayaker.

Blogspot.com.

Spiritual Book Study Group, Mobile – 7-9pm.

First and third Tues. Read and discuss spiritual books chosen by the members. Contact Joy: 251-382-4215.

CWG_Mobile_Group@yahoo.com.

Spiritual Cinema Group, Mobile – 7-9pm. Second and fourth Tues. View and discuss spiritual movies received from “Spiritual Cinema Circle.” Contact Melissa: 251-452-0393. CWG_Mobile_Group@ yahoo.com.

wednesday $5 Yoga Flow & Chair Yoga – 9:15am Yoga Flow and 10:30am Chair Yoga. Beginners welcome.

Enjoy exercise at any level. Improve balance, strength, and flexibility. Bring your own mat. $5.

Fairhope United Methodist Church CLC. 251-3794493. ThriveFairhope.com.

Power Yoga with Lynette – 9:15-10:25am. Experience necessary. Vigorous flow based class. May include inversions such as hand stands or back bends encouraging you to move at your own pace. Offers the opportunity to explore poses with a playful mindset with modification options. $5/1st time. $10/ preregister. $15/drop-in. Integrated Fitness-Fairhope.

251-554-4121. IntegratedFitness-Fairhope.com.

Positive Parenting Class – 9:30-11:30am. Kids don’t come with a set of instructions. Get the tools and skills to create a happy, healthy family. Free. The Family Center, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Ste 100, Mobile.

251-479-5700. Kids101@comcast.net.

Prenatal Yoga with Adrienne – 10am. During this blessed journey, let Adrienne assist you in drawing even closer to your baby—cherish this most wonderful of times. Breath and bliss melded together!

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104.

Synergyoga.net.

Lunchtime Yoga Yoga with Tracey, RYT 200 – 12-1:15pm. Feed your Soul! Take time to breathe and reconnect with inner peace on your lunch break while we flow through an all-levels yoga practice that will increase flexibility and balance, build strength and confidence while stilling the mind. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio, Mobile. Tracey@ ShantiWarrior.com.

Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis – 12-1pm. This chair yoga class is free to participants and funded by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. You must have MS to participate. Build strength and flexibility while improving balance and circulation. Fairhope. 251379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com.

Unusual Film Series – 2pm. Third Wed. Adults only. Thought provoking cutting-edge films shown on big screen in meeting room. Free. Popcorn and drinks included. Foley Public Library. 251-943-7665.

FoleyLibrary.org.

Eastern Shore MS Support Group – 5:30pm. Second Wed. Eastern Shore MS Support Group meets each month at Ruby Tuesday in Fairhope. Family, friends and caregivers are always welcome. Weezer: 251-928-7606.

Power Flow Yoga with Angela – 5:45pm. Join associate Baptiste Power Vinyasa Teacher Angela Cain to revitalize and energize your day. Enjoy the sweet sweat and moving meditation of Power Flow and leave class refreshed and recharged! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Basic Yoga and Philosophy – 6pm. Join Amanda Brenner, RYT 200 for a philosophy-based practice of therapeutic yoga postures and breathwork. Suitable for beginners of all abilities. Pay What You Can. Mobile Arts Council, Downtown. 251-202-YOGA. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Gentle Yoga wth Tracey, RYT 200 – 6-7:15pm. 75 min gentle practice appropriate for all levels, ages, shapes and sizes. We will breathe and move and let go of all the distractions and obstacles that obscure the peace, happiness, love and freedom we all have within. Om Shanti. $12 (senior and student discounts available). Quiet Mind Massage and Yoga Studio,

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Mobile. Tracey@ShantiWarrior.com.

International Association of Near Death Studies (IANDS) – 6-7:30pm. Second Wed. Ongoing discussion and support group affiliated with IANDS. Discussion expands to include intuition, after death communication, consciousness studies and related areas of interest to attendees. Free. West Regional Branch, Mobile Public Library. 251-340-8555.

Guided Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 7-8pm.

Practice guided meditation at Rosie Bluum and experience an inner journey which heals the heart, mind, body and soul. Nurture the spirit. Love offering appreciated. Additional days and times coming.

Rosie Bluum, 6 A S Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-5175626. RosieBluum.com.

thursday Sunrise Yoga with Chris – 6am. Join Chris Garrett for an energizing blend of Iyengar and Vinyasa yoga.

Charge the body and focus the mind to start your day—find the joy in the movement! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Yoga with Dana – 10am. Take a break in your busy morning. Join Dana to transform your body, relieve your stress, and relax your mind. Leave feeling on top of the world! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile.

251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Powerful Flow Yoga – 12pm. Challenging postures put together in a creative sequence characterize this yoga class. Lead by rotating instructors. Appropriate for fit beginners and beyond. Also Saturdays at 10:30am. Pay What You Can. Space 301, Downtown Mobile. 251-202-YOGA, KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Yoga with Tracey – 4pm. Revel in Tracey's refreshing energy as she challenges you with a strong emphasis on alignment and focus while still calming the mind. Sink into the joy and experience the bliss!

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104.

Synergyoga.net.

Reiki Exchange – 7pm. “Reiki Exchange” is a way for those who want to practice giving Reiki Treatments can share Reiki with anyone who wants to experience Reiki. What is Reiki? Talk at 7pm sharp! Great for learning about Reiki and recharging your health. No Charge. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 20730 Hwy 181 Ste B, (.2 N of Walmart) Fairhope. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/ Reiki-Exchange.

Rosie Bluum Book Club – 7-8pm. First Thurs.

Like-minded individuals are seeking growth and expansion through good discussions about challenging topics. For our latest book visit website or visit Rosie Blu to pick up a copy. Mention the club to get a discount. Rosie Bluum, 6A Bancroft St, Fairhope.

251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

friday Fab Fifteen Friday – Get an extra 15% off purchases. Back to Health Nutrition and Natural Foods, 1600 N McKenzie, Foley. 251-970-2225.

BackToHealthNutrition.com.

Yoga in the Yurt – 9-10am. No experience necessary. Increase your flexibility, strength and balance through the gentle stretching and poses of yoga.

Instructor Rosie Denton has practiced and taught yoga for many years. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and a pillow. Pay what you can (suggested

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

$7-$12). Middle Earth Healing and Learning Center, Citronelle. 251-866-7204. MidEarthHealing@ yahoo.com. MiddleEarthHealing.com.

saturday Saturday Morning Yoga with Augusta – 7:308:45am. Designed for all levels. The goal is to present movement and mindfulness simultaneously. The movements will challenge you to stay mindful and your mindfulness will allow you to honor your limits without judging yourself. $15 drop-in. $10 students and instructors. Creative Outlet, 66 1/2 S Section St, Fairhope. 251-928-5363. HeartStringsYoga.com.

Flow and Form Yoga – 8:30am. 75 mins. Join Melanie for this alignment based vinyasa yoga. Not recommended for individuals who are more than six months pregnant, injured, or in need of therapeutic

yoga. Experienced beginner/intermediate. $15. Yoga Birds 209 S Section St, Fairhope. 251-990-3447.

YogaBirds.com.

Silent Meditation with Rosie Bluum – 9-9:30am.

Come sit in silence with a group of like-minded people and start your Saturday with tranquility and peace of mind. Gentle meditation music is played in the background. Love offering appreciated. Additional days and times coming. Rosie Bluum, 6A Bancroft St, Fairhope. 251-517-5626.

RosieBluum.com.

Restorative Yoga – 10:30am. This passive practice of yoga is a profoundly relaxing sequence of restful, nourishing postures, breathing techniques, and simple meditations supported by yoga props that provides an effective way to manage the effects of stress & relieve pain of chronic injuries. $15. Yoga Birds, 209 S Section St, Fairhope. 251-990-3447.

YogaBirds.com.

classifieds Rates for classifieds start at $20 per month. Listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com for details. Volunteer opportunities are listed for free as space is available.

OPPORTUNITIES BECOME A PUBLISHER! –Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin is for sale! Own one of the Gulf Coast's most exciting businesses. Training provided.

See ad on page 9 for details.

GREEN DRINKS ORGANIZER – Mobile Bay Area Green Drinks is a local chapter of an international organization that meets informally at local eateries to discuss, promote and network about local and global green issues. A volunteer leader is needed to organize the chapter's monthly gatherings. Email MobileBayAreaGreenDrinks@ gmail.com for more information. Cheers!

JOIN THE GREEN CLEAN TEAM! – Green Clean provides environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning services. If interested in becoming part of our team, please call 251-508-3796 for an interview.

LICENSED HAIRSTYLIST NEEDED – Eastern Shore. Call 251-377-0796 for details.

SALES PROFESSIONAL FOR HEALTHY AND GREEN LIVING MAGAZINE – Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin has an opportunity for you to generate income through magazine ad sales and healthy living discount card sales. As an independent contractor you’ll have a protected territory and the ability to make your own schedule. Enjoy a generous pay structure, lead generation and participate in ongoing industry training. We have territories in Mobile and Baldwin counties available. Contact Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

SERVICES COLOR THERAPY – Learn to use colors in all parts of your life and create changes you desire.

Discover how they affect moods, emotions and why

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

you’re drawn to certain colors. Rosie Blu: 251-5175326. RosieBlu.com.

MARI ASSESSMENTS – MARI is a comprehensive system using colors and symbols to create a visual snapshot of the self. Reveal your inner voice, find guidance through personal issues and better understand your true self. 251-517-5326 or 251-752-6509. MARIByRosie.com.

YOGA WHEN AND WHERE YOU WANT IT! – YogaSource offers classes at your home or business for fitness and relaxation. Single or groups. Props provided. 251-202-YOGA. Kula YogaCommunity.org.

VOLUNTEER OPPS AZALEA CITY CAT COALITION – Volunteers needed in any capacity: transporting cats, trapping and adoption events. Contact Susan Young: 251-648-7582. SusanYoung@ AzaleaCityCats.org.

BARC! –Baldwin County Humane Society needs customer service volunteers from either 9am-12pm or 12:30-4pm, Mon-Thur. Duties mainly include greeting customers and answering the phone. For a complete list of volunteer opportunities, visit BaldwinHumane.org or call 251-928-4585.

DOG RIVER CLEARWATER REVIVAL STORM DRAIN MARKRE PROJECT– Volunteers needed to educate the public about the storm drain system. Supplies and instructions provided. Work at your convenience. Contact Janet Miller: J46Miller@yahoo.com, 251-654-1827.

MERCY MEDICAL Hospice volunteers needed to provide services such as running errands, offering respite breaks for caregivers and clerical assistance.

251-621-4431, Volunteers@MercyMedical.com.

naturaldirectory

ESSENTIAL OILS

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Natural Directory, email Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com to request our media kit. Rates begin at $36 a month.

ART FAIRHOPE ARTIST GALLERY

18 South Section Street, Fairhope 251-990-8763 FairhopeArtistGallery.BlogSpot.com Come and be inspired by local affordable art in this uniquely creative atmosphere. Look for “ART” and a golden palette above the door. Open Mon-Sat 10-5.

Classes offered.

KATRINA'S ART CLASSES

Serving Mobile and Baldwin Counties 251-554-5704, KatrinaBreeland@gmail.comFacebook.com/StudioGarageArtClasses Beginner's drawing classes for 12 yrs - adults; Art classes for 4 - 11 yrs; Weekly classes in 6-week sessions; Classes are held M - F, 9:30am 12:30pm. Call or email for more details.

BEAUTY B-BUTTERFLY SALON

103A North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-9934 BButterflySalon.com

A certified organic salon offering organic products and services including hair color, perms and shampoo. Keeping you and the Earth beautiful. See ad on page 28.

CHILDBIRTH SERVICES LOTUS DOULA SERVICES

Serving Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast 251-214-2919, LotusDoulas@gmail.com MobileDoula.com Facebook.com/LotusDoula Professional DONA-trained Birth and Postpartum Doula offering natural-minded, holistic services and resources for all stages of pregnancy and parenting.

CHIROPRACTIC BAYSIDE CHIROPRACTIC REHAB AND LASER THERAPY

Dr. Christian Augustin D.C. 8335 Gayfer Road Extension, Ste F, Fairhope 251-990-8388 MyFairhopeChiropractor.com Offering laser therapy as the drug free, noninvasive and painless treatment option for injuries and chronic conditions. See ad on page 2.

CHURCHES CENTER FOR JOYFUL LIVING 60 North Ann Street Mobile, AL 36695 251-391-6960

JUDITH Z. WILSON, MEM. #759523 Healthy Living With Essential Oils 251-656-6696, AromaLife@bellsouth.net Oil-Testimonials.com/759523 Workshops held the 2nd Saturday of every month, 10 a.m., 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile. Join us and learn how essential oils can help you. Call 251-656-6696 for more information.

FOODS AND NUTRITION Questioning, understanding and growing together spiritually as we enjoy life’s adventure. Center for Joyful Living in Mobile. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.

BURRIS FARM MARKET & BAKERY 3100 Hickory Street Loxley, AL 36551 251-964-6464

Hwy 59 on the way to Gulf Shores.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh baked strawberry shortcake, ice cream and much more. Your first and last stop to the beach, or any other time.

CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Sundays at 10am 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile 251-343-0777, CMSpiritualCenter.org Rev. S h er r ie Quander invites you to visit a loving, inclusive spiritual community where we aim to make every step we take, every choice we make, every word we speak a conscious one. See ad page 14.

OPEN TABLE: A COMMUNITY OF FAITH (UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST) 1050 Azalea Road at St Luke’s Episcopal Church, Mobile 251-545-1011, OpenTableUCC.org

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644, Café: 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store and organic café, featuring organic food, free-range meat, vegan options and organic wine. Store open 7 days a week. Serving the public 35 years. See ad on page 30.

OLIVELLA

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here! Pastor Ellen Sims and the congregation invite you to join them on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m. Childcare provided. See ad on page 20.

DENTISTRY DR. DAYTON HART, DM IAOMT Protocol 225 West Laurel Avenue, Foley 251-943-2471, DrDaytonHart.com

The Holiday, Inc. Shopping Center 4513 Old Shell Road, Mobile 251-725-6810 OlivellaMobile.com More than 50 on-tap gourmet extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars. Great gifts for food lovers and those looking for healthier ways to prepare their meals. Come in for a complimentary tasting! See ad on page 15.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II

Free book for new patients: M e rc u r y F re e D e n t i s t r y .

Offering ozone; laser (nosuture) gum surgery; testing for compatible materials and cavitycausing bacteria; examine for gum disease and bacteria; laser cavity diagnoses; saliva pH check; oral galvanic screening; no fluoride used.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0494, Café: 251-345-0495 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store and organic café, featuring organic food, free-range meat, vegan options and juice bar. Store open 7 days a week. Serving the public 35 years.

See ad on page 30.

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HEALING ARTS

OXYGEN THERAPY

MARQUERITE DILLON, RN, BSN, HCN Holistic Mind-Body Therapy 4313 Momote Drive, Mobile 251-463-1570, Dillon@mobilehypnosis.co MobileHypnosis.co Achieve goals, control cravings and conquer personal challenges with natural and holistic therapy.

Individual and group sessions available. Smoking cessation sessions at Synergy Yoga in Mobile.

YOGA

CHI MACHINE

MOBILE BALDWIN YOGA WEEK

A Form of Oxygen Therapy Heidi Pritchett, LMT 251-776-4069 Stress, poor circulatlion, headaches, back pain, insomnia, depression, asthma, weight loss? You name it, oxygen heals! Call for a free demonstration.

Deana Lannie 251-454-0959

YOGA BIRDS

VICTORIA WEBB PHOTOGRAPHY

209-A South Section Street, Fairhope 251-990-3447, YogaBirds.com Fairhope's yoga studio with classes for everyone. View full schedule and sign-up for classes and special events at YogaBirds.com. See ad on page 35.

Lifestyle portraits and wedding photography.

Free healing nights and group meditations every Monday. Pranic Healing classes and the advanced technique of Superbrain Yoga.

SOUND THERAPY MARTHA UMPHREY

251-752-8122 MarthaUmphrey@yahoo.com Offering sound therapy as a natural solution for tinnitus or diminished hearing due to injury, stroke or aging.

MASSAGE

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

JEN ADAMS, LMT

Celebrate National Yoga Month with free yoga classes and events in September. If you are a yoga teacher or studio owner, contact us to get involved! See ad on page 2.

PHOTOGRAPHERS 251-716-9699 VictoriaWebbPhotography@hotmail.com VictoriaWebbPhotography.com

PRANIC HEALING IN MOBILE

251-990-9552 MobileBaldwinYoga@gmail.com TinyURL.com/YogaWeek Facebook: Mobile/Baldwin Yoga Week

This logo indentifies businesses that provide discounts to Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cardholders. See ad on page 24.

MIDDLE EARTH HEALING AND LEARNING CENTER

22787 US 98, Building D Suite 5, Montrose, 251-616-4201 JenAdamsLMT.MassageTherapy.com JenAdams.Massage@gmail.com

20205 Middle Earth Road, Citronelle 251-866-7204 MiddleEarthHealing.com

Unique massage technique that is gentle enough for the severest sufferers of pain and deep enough for the most rigorous of athletes. 14 years experience in the bodywork and natural wellness field. See ad on page 11.

Middle Earth is an evolving education center, modeling permaculture, sustainable living and the interconnection of the health of the planet and the health of her inhabitants. See ad on page 28.

YOUR NAME HERE

Holy Molé Cartoon

See more at HolyMoleCartoon.com.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Facebook.com/HolyMoleCartoon

YOGA & PILATES RESOURCES Synergy

feel good,

D IN

do yoga.

First class is

FREE

for locals

(251)990-3447

209-A South Section St. Fairhope, Alabama

Group Classes

Private Lessons

Dana B. Garrett MS, ACSM, RYT PhysicalMind Institute Stott IM and IR Certified

www.synergyoga.net 3152 Old Shell Road, Suite 2 Mobile, Alabama 36607

251.473.1104

Coming in September

Free Yoga Classes & Events in Mobile & Baldwin Counties Teachers: Contact us to get involved!

www.TinyURL.com/YogaWeek 251-990-9552 MobileBaldwinYoga@gmail.com

Y

M

D

look good,

O

yogabirds.com

B

yoga & Pilates

SPIRIT

Trinity Yoga

Enjoy Yoga in a Rural Setting!

Rise & Shine Yoga Chair Yoga Energize & Relax Yoga 21441 Highway 98 East in Foley 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541 natstrinityyoga@gmail.com

Integrated Fitness Exercise Studio

Providing personal training, small group training and group classes

Fitness-Based Yoga & Pilates Specialty Classes Include:

Youth Exploring Exercise & Nutrition

Explore Your Core Lynette Staggers, LPTA, RYT-200 www.IntegratedFitness-Fairhope.com 456 Morphy Ave, Fairhope 251-554-4121natural awakenings

August 2012

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Eat Fresh. Buy Local.

Treat your locavore palate to farm-fresh foods while contributing to a healthier planet and a more prosperous local economy. Support these Mobile/Baldwin businesses!

CSA’S (COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE)

MEAT & SEAFOOD FIDLER FARMS Highway 55 South to Harris Lane Silverhill, Alabama 36576 251-945-5687

MAE GRACE FARM MaeGraceFarm.com MaeGraceFarm@hotmail.com 251-964-5286

THE PURE VEGAN ThePureVegan.com Tracey@ThePureVegan.com 251-510-2418, Like us on Facebook!

Fresh, healthy and delicious plant-based whole foods, with locally sourced ingredients. Specializing Family-owned grower of grass-finished all natural in weekly meal deliveries. See ad on page 26.

Local organic farm operating a 36 week CSA. Shares beef, Super Jumbo Green and dry peanuts. include produce, herbs and cut flowers. See ad on page 19.

SAMURAI J SUSHI BAR

PRODUCE & FARMERS MARKETS

WINDMILL MARKET'S PRODUCE CLUB

FALL MARKET ON THE SQUARE

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope Info@WindmillMarket.org 251-990-8883

Cathedral Square Downtown Mobile 251-208-1558

Fresh fruits, veggies, milk, cheese, grass-fed beef October 6 to November 17. Local produce (some and more delivered from local farms to your table organic), seafood, flowers, bread, pasta, casseroles, every week! live music and more. Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to noon.

GROCERY STORES

ORLANDO AND SONS PRODUCE

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

SUNFLOWER CAFE I 320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu We are a family-owned business located in the heart online. See ad on page 30. of Gulf Shores. We carry all home-grown produce and we're open all year round!

Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, organic milk, meat, THE PRODUCE OUTLET eggs, honey and soap. See ad on page 30.

2700 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, Alabama 36606 251-476-5001

VIRGINIA'S HEALTH FOODS 3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0494 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, organic milk, meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad on page 30.

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope WindmillMarket.org 251-990-8883

Now using locally-grown, organic vegetables from Mae Grace Farm in Loxley. See ad on page 11.

100 East 20th Avenue Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 251-948-4538, OrlandoAndSons@gmail.com Organic cafe serving lunch and Sunday brunch.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

WESTSIDE GROCERY

1410 US Highway 98, Suite J, Daphne 251-621-1906 SamuraiJ.com

SUNFLOWER CAFE II 3952 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-345-0495 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Offering fresh fruits and vegetables, from local Organic cafe and juice bar. Local produce, herbs sources whenever possible, at 30-50 percent below and meats used. Menu online. See ad on page 30. retail cost.

RESTAURANTS & CATERING LULU'S AT HOMEPORT Under the bridge in Gulf Shores 251-967-LULU LuLuBuffett.com

SWEET OLIVE BAKERY & JUICE BAR 85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope SweetOlive.co 251-990-8883

European-style, artisan baked goods; freshly Local grocery sells the best produce, meat, cheeses, Proudly serving fresh local produce, Gulf Wild Red squeezed fruit and veggie juices; coffee; smoothies seafood and sweets that the area has to offer! and more.

Snapper and Alabama Wild Shrimp.

This logo identifies businesses that are Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Providers.

Visit Tinyurl.com/NANCard to order your card today!

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com