December 2013 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

H E A L T H Y

FREE

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

Special Holiday Edition

Awakening Humanity

Mindful Eating

for a More Peaceful World

Green Holidays

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

Gift Guide Local Ideas for Conscious Giving

December 2013 | Mobile/Baldwin Edition | www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Fish River Christmas Tree Farm

Home of the Living Christmas Trees Don’t discard your Christmas tree after the holidays, plant it!

Living Christmas Trees are an environmentally-friendly option that outlive the short holiday season. Decorate your living tree for Christmas and then plant it in your yard for years of enjoyment.

OPEN: Nov. 29th-Dec. 23rd

Fresh Wreaths, Garland & Centerpieces

HOURS: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM Daily

Choose & Cut Trees

Fresh-Cut Fir, Spruce and SnoTip Trees

ContainerGrown Living Christmas Trees

A Family Christmas Tradition Visit with Santa (weekends from 10am-4pm) for FREE See our FREE Manger Scene with live animals FREE farm tour aboard the Tannenbaum Express Camel and pony rides for a small fee

13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd. East • Summerdale, AL 36580 251-988-8114 • www.fishrivertrees.com

We’ve always been your guide to healthy living and a healthy planet. Now, we’re putting together a directory of local resources that you can refer to all year long.

Health & Wellness•Green & Sustainable Living•Fitness & Nutrition•Personal Growth

Coming in February 2014

The 2nd Annual Mobile/Baldwin

Healthy& GREEN Living

DIRECTORY ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS! Reach our health-conscious readers with year-round distribution of this special edition, both in print and online.

Learn more: www.TinyURL/DirectoryNA.com EXAMPLE

PRICING:

ACUPUNCTURE

$99 for 1 listing

INTEGRATIVE MED SOLUTIONS Dr. Jan Smith, ND, LAC., RH, CHT 123 Main St., Mobile 251-123-4567 • YourWebsite.com

$149 for 3 listings (3 different categories)

Therapeutic solutions to acute and chronic conditions.

Acupuncture is an intelligent medicine, gentle enough for pregnant women, and powerful enough to treat serious conditions like high blood pressure or chronic pain. See ad pg 25.

Each Listing Includes: • Category & 4 Contact Lines • Description (30 words) • Photo or Logo

$200 for business profiles (200 words plus a photo or logo)

$450 ad packages (1/4 pg ad, business profile and 3 listings)

More options online!

Deadline: January 10, 2014

Reserve your space today! 251-990-9552

Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Happy Holidays

to you and your families from

B-Butterfly SALON

Organic Hair Color & Products

What’s NOT in our product Ammonia Formaldehyde Parabens GMO’s Phthalates Mercury VOC’s

What IS in our product Orange Chamomile Grapefruit Aloe Comfrey

contents 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.

13 GO NATURAL

WITH REAL CHRISTMAS TREES

16

by Steve Mannhard

15 HUMANITY’S

ETERNAL QUEST

Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

16 GREEN MERRY MAKING

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

18 THE LOCAL GUIDE

22

TO CONSCIOUS GIVING

by Meredith Montgomery

22 PET FIRST-AID KITS

All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

24 PEACE ON

OUR PLATES Mindful Eating for a

More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

Call today for a free consultation.

251-990-9934

103A North Bancroft Street, Fairhope www.BButterflySalon.com

27 TOO MUCH

TOGETHERNESS?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

Lots of new wellness resources coming in 2014! Stay tuned!

4

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

24

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

27

10 7 newsbriefs 10 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 13 localinsight 15 wisewords 16 greenliving 18 consciousgiving 22 naturalpet 12 24 consciouseating 27 fitbody 13 29 calendar 32 classifieds 33 naturaldirectory

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. calendar submissions Submit calendar events and ongoing classes online at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

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.

Stop Itching Within Seconds!

Introducing DermaClear,

TM

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

29.99

$

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

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

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

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

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

4-oz spray bottle

19.99

$

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

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

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

NAWebstore.com or call 888-822-0246

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

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com natural awakenings

December 2013

5

letterfrompublisher Dear Santa, How has your night been so far? I bet you were disappointed to find that we still don’t have a fireplace. I hope the dog door wasn’t too much trouble for you again this year.

It’s been another busy year for us, but for the most part I think we’ve been pretty wellbehaved. I’ve been working hard in the garden to grow more of our own food and I recently started volunteering with Mays’ preschool class to do some conservation education programs.

Josh has been diligently balancing family time with graduate school, teaching and coaching, and adjusted well to sitting on the parents’ side of the field during Mays’ first season of soccer.

Mays continues to grow up incredibly fast.

He helps around the house, is kind to his peers and enjoys flossing his teeth every night. Lately, he’s been brightening my day with little notes that he leaves in my office. I especially like it when he embellishes his signature with a peace sign. Aside from the occasional snack swiping and late-night interrogation of unseen creatures in the backyard, the dogs have been well-meaning, too. They constantly remind us about unconditional love and simple living.

Do you ever find yourself going overboard with your gift-giving to all the good little boys and girls of the world? It’s so tempting to spoil Mays with material gifts each Christmas. This year Josh and I decided to simplify our family’s gift exchange by implementing the four gift rule: something to wear, something to read, something you want and something you need (see page 20). We hope you’ll still leave us one or two things if we’ve made your good list, but for our family gifting, we’re looking forward to focusing on quality and limiting the quantity. Plus, isn’t the true spirit of Christmas about peace, love, hope and joy?

We left you a couple copies of this month’s Natural Awakenings to enjoy with some homemade cookies and Alabama organic milk. We hope that Rudolph and company enjoy the bell peppers and lettuce that we picked from our garden. Did you notice that our Christmas tree from last year is thriving in the front yard? It’s the one decorated with the cranberry garland and birdseed-covered pinecone ornaments.

The birds love it! We get our living Christmas trees from Fish River Trees, and the owner, Steve Mannhard, wrote about the benefits of real trees versus plastic trees this month in “Go Natural with Real Christmas Trees.”

There are some healthy recipes in “Peace on Our Plates” that I think Mrs. Claus would enjoy, so please share a copy with her. And maybe you guys could come back in town for some New Year’s yoga? I’m sure downward dog and savasana would really help counteract the physical effects of your 24-hour chimney hopping, sleigh riding and cookie-eating adventure. The local studios have been doing a good job of providing us with opportunities to stay active during this season of indulgence (see page 27 for a list of events). And remember our annual Local Guide to Conscious Giving is in this issue, in case you need a few last-minute gifts while you’re in town.

Thanks for making a stop at our home! May the rest of your evening be safe, merry and bright!

Cheers!

contact us Publisher/Editor Meredith Montgomery Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com Assistant Editor Martin Miron Contributors 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. © 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers.

It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call 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.

6

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

newsbriefs Bottoms Up for the Planet The local chapter of Green Drinks (GreenDrinks.org) kicks off the return of monthly meetings with a Green Drinks holiday celebration from 5 to 7 p.m., December 10, at Fairhope Brewing Company, with complimentary light fare from Sweet Olive, beer specials, music and a mini farmers market.

Mobile Bay Area Green Drinks is a community group that hosts informal, engaging happy hours for environmentally thoughtful folks. The group’s goal is to connect progressive people in the area that are working to address environmental issues in some capacity, professionally or at home. There is no charge to attend, but attendees are responsible for the cost of their own drinks.

Regular meetings take place every second Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m., at Fairhope Brewing Company. Drinking is optional and attendees are welcome to stay for as little or as long as they like.

For more information, email MobileBayAreaGreenDrinks@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/MobileBayAreaGreenDrinks.

Social Justice...

We don’t just talk about it.

united church of christ

Sunday worship at 5 pm 1050 Azalea Rd, Mobile (at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church) opentableucc.org (251) 545-1011

Enrollment is Open at Alabama Healing Arts Alabama Healing Arts is now accepting applications for enrollment. Current certification programs include massage therapy, yoga and Reiki.

All programs can be utilized well together, and package rates are available for those seeking a multi-modality practice.

The 650-hour massage therapy curriculum meets all state requirements to help students become licensed massage therapists. The interactive learning program includes fundamental sciences, a variety of hands-on technique classes and student clinic and outreach practicums.

Daytime and evening classes are available.

The 200-hour and 500-hour weekends-only yoga curriculum will be registered with Yoga Alliance, so that graduating students may become registered yoga teachers (RYT-200/RYT-500). This immersive hatha yoga teacher training utilizes props to ensure proper body alignment and safety. It includes fundamental sciences, various teaching methodologies, breath and meditation practices and indepth yogic philosophy study. Special rates apply for those wishing to participate for self-development purposes only.

The Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki curriculum certifies participants to offer professional Reiki treatments. Beginning at 16 hours, participants may take each of the three levels of Reiki individually or purchase them as a package. These continuing education courses are approved by the state of Alabama.

For more information or to apply for enrollment in a certification program, call 251-753-1937, email KellyLaurendine@gmail.com or visit Alabama HealingArts.com.

Experience the gifts of the Earth.

Healing Acres A Place of Wellness Massage • Reflexology Body Treatments Reiki • Ear Candling Colon Hydrotherapy Detox Spa System DŌTerra Oils Distributor Wellness Classes & More Gift Certificates Available

22355 Price Grubbs Rd in Robertsdale 251-423-1863

Do you have your NAN Discount Card yet?

Get 2 for $40 with Coupon Code: HOLIDAY13! Tinyurl.com/NANCard

natural awakenings

December 2013

7

newsbriefs Study to Become a Yoga Teacher A Yoga Alliance-certified teacher training and advanced studies program will begin in January 2014, meeting on Tuesday nights and occasional Saturdays throughout 2014, in Fairhope. Sponsored by a partnership between Prana Health and Wellness and Yoga Birds, the program is taught

by Yoga Alliance-certified instructors, and upon completion of the entire training, students are automatically eligible for Yoga Alliance RYT-200 registration.

The program covers history, anatomy, asana and more.

Aspiring teachers, those already teaching or students with a dedicated, consistent practice wishing to deepen their Becky Ardrey understanding, experience and articulation of yoga may enroll in any or all sessions.

Becky Ardrey, owner of Prana Health and Wellness, states, “A balanced, consistent yoga practice can be life-changing. The teacher training and advanced studies program that we will be offering can help you refine your practice, bring more awareness to your body and make you a more skillful instructor and practitioner.”

An easy payment schedule is available. Location: Prana Health and Wellness, 209 S. Section St., Fairhope. For more information, call 251-455-9359 or visit PranaHealthandWellness.com. See ad, page 17.

&

WANT TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST? GET YOUR VITAMINS FROM THE BEST! mediStat Pharmacy—your —your everyday health and wellness resource—provides nutritional and mineral base supplements, vitamins, body care, sports nutrition and much more. Not sure where to start? Take advantage of our private consulting and educational programs.

Visit us today and learn about our “Custom Made For You” approach to your nutritional wellness.

Like us on Facebook!

Or visit us on the web at mediStat.com

110 E. Azalea Ave • Foley, AL 36535 (855) 737.2550 8

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Open Table Reprises Painting the Stars Video Series in Midtown Open Table: A Community of Faith (United Church of Christ), is offering the chance to participate in a free, sevensession DVD- and discussion-based series celebrating the communion of science and faith. Painting the Stars explores evolutionary Christian spirituality, featuring leading theologians and progressive thinkers.

Participants will gather Sunday mornings from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., from December 1 to January 12, 2014, in the chapel of All Saints Episcopal Church at Government and Ann, in Midtown Mobile. Each program will begin with a 20-minute video, followed by facilitated discussion from varied perspectives.

The title of the series comes from Vincent Van Gogh, who said, “When I have a terrible need of dare I say, ‘religion,’ then I go outside at night and paint the stars.” The goal of this curriculum is to explore the way science is shaping religion.

Childcare will be provided for those that call in advance. To register and receive a free participant guide, call 251-5451011 or email Rev. Ellen Sims at Pastor@ opentableucc.org. See ad, page 7.

Search iTunes app store for “Natural Awakenings” and download our FREE app!

Chasing Fresh Offers Retail Storefront Shopping New Mobile Studio Chasing Fresh has a new location at 19176 to Offer Kids Highway 181, in Fairhope, where shoppers can Aerial Camp purchase healthy, local produce and groceries in the store and also pre-order for future pickup or delivery. The store is open during regular business hours, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Offering produce, meat, seafood, bread, milk, cheese, sauces and more, the market is a one-stop shop for family grocery needs. Many organic options are available.

Chasing Fresh focuses on the local economy with a heartfelt drive to support local farmers in Alabama, embracing the farm-to-table movement. Head Forager Chase Corte says, "We are local, but we are much more. Everything at Chasing Fresh comes from Alabama soil, Alabama people. We aren't just local, we are indigenous."

For more information, call 251-210-6011, email CCorte@chasingfresh.net or visit ChasingFresh.net. Also on Twitter and Facebook. See ad, page 10

Gulf Shores Yoga Studio Expansion and Teacher Training Glow Yoga is expanding to double their practice space and allow room to create an environment for the community to gather.

Owner/instructor Jennifer Guthrie says, “I am extremely grateful for the community supporting Glow Yoga and am excited about the expansion to spread the light of yoga.”

Phase one of the 200-hour teacher training will be held from December 8 through 15. Sid McNairy, who has been described as authentic and empowering, will be leading the training. Guthrie says, “We are honored to have such an inspirational and international yogi do the training in our neck of the woods. Like most teacher trainings, it is just overall a great opportunity to take the time to do the work on your mat and on yourself to springboard into your own greatness.”

For more information, call Guthrie at 615-739-7306 or visit Glow-Yoga.com/ teacher-training-2 or SidYoga.com. See ad, page 17.

The Fit Nest, Mobile's premier yoga, aerial yoga/silks and fitness studio is now open for practice at 2569 Dauphin Street, three miles east of I-65, in Mobile. The studio offers classes in yoga, aerial yoga/silks, kids aerial yoga, total barre, Pilates, athletic conditioning, adult ballet classes and much more. In their fitness and dance boutique, Fit Nest carries apparel from HardTail, LVR, Blake Brody, Ballera and otherse.

An Aerial Kids Camp will be held for five weeks from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. every Thursday in January. Cost is $100.

Jennifer Hunt, owner/instructor, who won the 2013 Nappie Award for Best Yoga Instructor/Studio, says, “My goal is to share my passion for movement and body awareness with everyone. We have created a space that is positive, fun and energetic to practice in. Everybody is a yoga body!”

For more information, call 251-4709642, email TheFitNest@ yahoo.com or visit Facebook. com/jennifer huntfitness.

See ad, page 17.

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 $33.95.

Free demonstration with appointment.

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

December 2013

9

Redefining Local.

healthbriefs

Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’s

C

Cultivating and demonstrating a sustainable way of life

innamon is known as an excellent antioxidant that improves fasting blood sugar levels and prevents heart disease. Now new research offers yet another benefit and reason to add this potent spice to our daily diet.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Alzheimer’s disease. They found that the cinnamon compounds cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memory-robbing neurodegenerative disease.

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cinnamon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the university’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap,” protecting against tau proteins.

The findings suggest that sufficient cinnamon consumption might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even prevent it.

...for the health of the planet and her inhabitants.

Cocoa Calms Inflammation

The only produce market in South Alabama where everything is grown, caught and made in Alabama.

NOW OPEN: CHASING FRESH MARKET

Mon-Sat, 9am-7pm•19176 Hwy 181, Fairhope Delivery available to Mobile & Baldwin Counties.

FRUITS, VEGETABLES, HERBS, HONEY, BREAD, MILK, MEAT, SEAFOOD, EGGS, CHEESE & MORE! Facebook.com/ChasingFresh•ChasingFresh.net 251-210-6011 • ccorte@chasingfresh.net

M

F

iddle Earth

Healing & Learning Center Middle Earth is dedicated to the practice of Deep Ecology. We are grounded in the belief that the health and well being of each individual is interconnected with their living and working environment, as well as to the health and sustainability of the planet herself. The philosophy of the center is to have respect for all life, to feel the Divine Presence in all living things, and to honor that Presence by the way we go about our daily lives.

20205 Middle Earth Rd., Citronelle, AL 251-866-7204 MidEarthHealing@yahoo.com www.MiddleEarthHealing.com

Do you have your NAN Discount Card yet?

Get 2 for $40 with Coupon Code: HOLIDAY13! Tinyurl.com/NANCard 10

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

ew can say no to a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night. “Enjoy!” say Penn State researchers. They have found that a little bit of cocoa may be a powerful diet aid in helping to control inflammation and ameliorate related diseases, including diabetes. Numerous current studies link obesity to inflammation in the body.

Cocoa, although a common ingredient of chocolate, by itself has low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber content. The researchers fed laboratory mice the human equivalent of 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder—about four or five cups of hot cocoa—along with a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. The control group ate the same diet without the cocoa.

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

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

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Meditation Helps Heal Traumatized Veterans

Make the Switch to Natural Body Care!

All-Natural,Handcrafted Bath & Body Products Made in Mobile Using Natural & Organic Ingredients

T

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

TM—a technique to avoid distracting thoughts, decrease stress and promote a state of relaxed awareness— reduced PTSD symptoms in combat veterans by as much as 50 percent in just eight weeks, according to a study from Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C., published in the journal Military Medicine. The veterans also reported decreased depression and improved quality of life, with a greater ability to come back to their civilian lives after returning from duty.

Vietnam War vets randomly assigned to TM sessions at a Denver Veterans Center also experienced greater reductions in alcohol usage, insomnia and depression than those in conventional counseling. At the conclusion of a landmark three-month study, 70 percent of the meditating veterans felt they no longer required the services of the center.

A separate American Heart Association report on the general U.S. population showed that the practice of TM generally reduced systolic blood pressure in subjects by five points and diastolic by three points, enough to put many of them into normal range. Previous clinical trials have shown that lower blood pressure through TM practice is associated with significantly lower rates of death, heart attack and stroke.

TM is usually practiced for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day by sitting comfortably and focusing on an individually selected word or series of words.

Soaps • Body Polish & Lotions • Lip Care Bath & Body Oils • Mineral Bath Salts Herbal Bath Bags • Gift Sets

Call today or order online and enjoy free shipping! www.ZapahNaturals.com 251-776-4382 • CS@ZapahNaturals.com 20% OFF Online Orders Coupon Code: DEC13 expires Jan. 1, 2014

Don’t Stress the Holidays!

The Holidays are meant for Joy. Give yourself the gift of relaxation.

Try a soothing bath with lavender and magnesium, or a cup of chamomile tea. For higher stress levels there are herbs like lemon balm and passion flower or amino acid based products. Come in today and see our wide variety of mood enhancing products.

The Health Hut

Mobile: 251-633-0485 Daphne: 251-621-1865 680 S. Schillinger Rd. (across from Home Depot)

6845 Hwy 90 (across from Fresh Market)

The Health Hut specializes in:

• Vitamins, Herbs & Minerals • Sports Nutrition • Weight Loss Products • Children’s Health

• Antioxidants • Kangan Water • Organic & Whole Foods • Local Honey

• Gluten-Free Products • Essential Oils/Aromatherapy • Womens Health Products • Mens Health Products

HEALTH HUT DECEMBER SPECIAL: 20% Off Lavender & Peppermint Oil 15% Off 5-htp, Lemon Balm and GABA

Expires 12/31/2013.

Stay Connected!

Keep up with all things healthy and green. Like "Natural Awakenings" on Facebook and follow @NaturallyAwake on Twitter and Instagram. natural awakenings

December 2013

11

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

Genuinely Greenwashed Six Ploys to Avoid in Eco-Purchases

A report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping: 1. Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.

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

3. Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemical- free” or “no hormones added”.

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

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

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

Tagging Toxins

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

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

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

12

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Escalating Thirst Endangered Western Tree Habitats

A team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree. They exposed the gel to an artificially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss.

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

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

localinsight

Go Natural with Real Christmas Trees

by Steve Mannhard

A

debate continues about whether artificial Christmas trees are better for the environment than natural trees, much to the amazement of our nation’s Christmas tree farmers. “Why cut down a tree?” the manufacturers ask.

Farmers might reply, “Why harvest and eat an ear of corn or a juicy ripe tomato?

Do you want to eat a plastic peach?” Real Christmas trees are a renewable crop like any other, and a cut tree is immediately replaced with a new one. Plastic trees are not renewable.

If a family chooses a container-grown “living Christmas tree”, the environmental value is greatly increased, because the tree may later be planted in the landscape for years of enjoyment. Educational experiences for children also result when they plant and care for the tree. For those lacking the yard space for a new evergreen each year, living Christmas trees can be given to neighbors and friends or donated to parks and businesses with suitable locations for planting.

A real, live tree makes a perfect symbol of the miracle of “new life” that Christmas represents because it actually lives on after the holiday is over. Living Christmas trees also have an added safety factor over even cut trees, because they don’t dry out or shed if properly watered.

More than 300 million Christmas trees are grown in the U.S, a wonderful environmental benefit that any tree farmer will gladly compare to a polluting factory in China producing a petroleum-based PVC plastic product, along with other metals, like lead. Trees take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, playing a key role in balancing the natural environment. A Chinese factory smokestack does only harm.

Fake plastic trees are not biodegradable, placing another burden on landfills, while 93 percent of cut trees are recycled as mulch, fish habitat or even used for sand dune restoration on our beaches, adding nutrients back to the soil. Real Christmas trees also reduce soil erosion and provide excellent habitat for wildlife such as birds, rabbits, deer, foxes, armadillos and gopher tortoises, to name a few, that make their home on Christmas tree farms.

Families will likely create a fonder memory of enjoying a fun-filled family outing at a tree farm than pulling a box out of storage and tinkering with it. It’s an adventure, not a chore—a cultural tradition that binds families together and a celebration of life.

Steve Mannhard is the owner of Fish River Trees, in Summerdale, a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm and evergreen nursery that produces thousands of living Christmas trees. Learn more at FishRiverTrees.com. See ad, page 2.

Contributing source: Utne.com natural awakenings

December 2013

13

Coming Next Month

FAIRHOPE

SPECIAL EDITION

Health & Wellness Rev Up Healthy Choices in the New Year

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

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

14

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

THRIVE YOGA & MASSAGE Billie Reinhart, RYT, LMT 251-379-4493 Thrive@ThriveFairhope.com ThriveFairhope.com

FOLEY

Local & National Experts Show You How

251-990-9552

REIKI CENTER OF FAIRHOPE LMTs- Julie E. Brent & Chester Schmidt Call for location 251-281-8811 ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com

MONTROSE JEN ADAMS, LMT 22787 US 98 at Parker Rd., Bdg. D, Ste. 5 251-616-4201 JenAdams.Massage@gmail.com JenAdamsLMT.info

ROBERTSDALE HEALING ACRES Massage, Reflexology, Colonics, Reiki 22355 Price Grubbs Road 251-423-1863 See ad, page 7.

WEST MOBILE

BELLA SUNDRIES WELLNESS STUDIO 6576 Airport Boulevard, Building C 251-458-8884 Bella.Sundries.Massage@gmail.com MOBILE BellaSundries.Webs.com ELEMENTS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE See ad, page 22.

6920 Airport Boulevard, Suite 111 CYNERGY MASSAGE & WELLNESS 251-342-6415 Cynde Greer, LMT AL1987 Mobile@TouchOfElements.com 2090 Schillinger Rd S, Suite G ElementsMassage.com/Mobile 251-633-2828 See ad, page 21.

CynergyMassage.com This logo identifies businesses that offer discounts to Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cardholders. Visit www.TinyURL.com/NANCard for details.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

LUKE FONDREN LMT #423 Specializing in Pain Relief Olena Wellness Center 6925 Cottage Hill Road, Suite D Call/Text: 251-298-9520

wisewords

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

by Eric Nelson

T

photo by David Ellingsen

the present moment, with o listen to Eckhart Tolle is to be reminded that no more future to escape anything is possible— into mentally. The result is for anyone. a lot less suffering.

We’re not talking about “That is the real spiritual living a life of leisure, filled awakening, when somewith expensive cars, beach thing emerges from within homes and extravagant vayou that is deeper than who cations, but an experience you thought you were,” brimming with the kind of says Tolle. “So, the person spiritual insights that make is still there, but one could this life not only worth almost say that something living, but decidedly more powerful shines Spiritual insights aren’t through the person.” more fulfilling.

The problem is The good news, acthe least bit ethereal that when people hear cording to Tolle, is that or elusive, but the words “spiritual in order to experience insight”, there’s often this awakening, “You decidedly practical. an assumption that it’s don’t have to wait for about something too the diagnosis by the ethereal to be practical or too elusive to doctor or to be put in prison… nor do you be achieved in this lifetime. have to do 30,000 hours of meditation or

This is exactly the point that Eckhart live in an ashram for 20 years. Once you Tolle, one of the world’s most well-known get a glimpse of it, you can invite it into spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed your daily life.” during a talk earlier this year at Califor- For a growing number of people, it’s nia’s Stanford University. this understanding of the always present

“Some people awaken spiritually “spiritual you” shining through that has led without ever coming into contact with to significant improvements in their lives, any meditation technique or any spiritual not the least of which is better health. This teaching,” he says. “They may awaken would seem to indicate that these kinds of simply because they can’t stand the suf- spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal fering anymore.” or elusive, but decidedly practical.

He went on to cite examples of those “Spirituality and religion belong that have either been told they have a in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre short time to live or have been given an Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern exceptionally long prison sentence. In Cross University, in a study published in both cases, any thought of a future has the Journal of the Australian Traditionalbeen effectively dashed, forcing these Medicine Society. “They are determinants individuals into what Tolle describes as of health and they are factors in recovery, an intense awareness that there is only well-being and longevity.”

So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable, more effective than that? “Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimension’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we retranslate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’”

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

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

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

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

digital MAGAZINE

automatic. free. green. subscribe online: HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

natural awakenings

December 2013

15

greenliving

GREEN Merry Making Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

Gift Giving

by Claire O’Neil

T

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

The season seems consumed by uptempo decorating, feasting, shopping, gift-giving and merrymaking at any cost.

Yet, creative green living experts show us how easy it is to tweak time-honored family traditions to align with the green way we wish to live and feel even more satisfied with festivities.

Decking the Halls

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

Michele Johansen, a lifestyle writer in Bellevue, Washington, suggests bringing in the outdoors. Instead of decorating the tree with tinsel and the home with plastic faux greenery, she suggests stringing popcorn and cranberries on the tree and decking the halls with fresh wreaths and garlands accented 16

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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

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

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

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

Buy a live tree to later plant or recycle, Seo suggests. This supports regional Christmas tree farmers while retaining the integrity of local forests. Many communities offer recycling of holiday trees to provide mulch or habitat for aquatic life in local lakes.

Keeping the Feast

Organize a cookie exchange to get together and save time and energy on holiday baking, suggests Sara Novak, a food policy and health writer at SereneKitchen.com, from Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina.

Generally, a hostess asks guests to bring several dozen of their favorite cookies.

Once gathered, attendees share the treats and recipes, taking home several of each variety. To “green it up”, Novak recommends emailing the recipes rather than printing them, encouraging invitees to use fresh and local ingredients and bring favorite reusable containers from home, like a colorful, time-honored cookie tin.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

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

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

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

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

“Giving loved ones experiences reduces wrapping paper, ribbon and packaging and is an easy way to be a bit more personal over the holidays. Your teenage niece may love a spa day, complete with hair styling, while your favorite aunt and uncle may be thrilled to attend a local wine tasting. If you think a young child can tolerate a few less presents in exchange for a pass to an ice show or dance class, go for it.”

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

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

Masters of Yoga & Pilates

Mobile's Premier Yoga, Aerial Silks, & Fitness Studio Featured Event: Aerial Kids Camp

Thursdays in January • 4:30-5:30 PM

Cost: $100 • Register NOW, space is limited!

2569 Dauphin Street • Mobile

251-470-9642•TheFitNest@yahoo.com

Facebook.com/JenniferHuntFitness

SYNERGY D M Dana B. Garrett

MS, ACSM, RYT Stott IM and IR Certified Stott CCB, ISP, and Core Barre Trained PhysicalMind Institute

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

251.473.1104

Y

Private Sessions

Offering a full schedule of yoga classes for all ages and levels.

D

IN

O

Group Classes

PRANA Health and Wellness

B

Yoga & Pilates

Teacher Training

SPIRIT

(Yoga Alliance RYT-200)

Trinity Yoga

Enjoy Yoga in a Rural Setting!

Come Home to Yourself.

Rise & Shine Yoga Energize & Relax Yoga

& Advanced Studies Program starting in January 2014

Contact the studio or see website for class schedule and details.

21441 Highway 98 East in Foley 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541 natstrinityyoga@gmail.com www.tinyurl.com/trinityyogafoleyal

209 South Section Street in Fairhope

251-455-9359

www.PranaHealthAndWellness.com

Yoga & Pilates Classes Corporate Wellness Personal Training Health Coaching locations throughout Mobile and Daphne info@KulaYogaCommunity.org 251-591-7094

Lynette Staggers, IHC, LPTA, RYT-200 www.InHealthWell.com 456 Morphy Ave, Fairhope 251-554-4121

natural awakenings

December 2013

17

The Local Guide to

Conscious Giving

by Meredith Montgomery

W

e know it as the most wonderful time of the year, yet too often the holiday season pushes wellness to the back burner and heightened consumption trumps efforts to go green. For this year’s giftgiving season, Natural Awakenings has gathered meaningful and practical gift ideas from local businesses to ease the stress of holiday shopping.

To make gifting even simpler, pair our suggestions with creative themes that initiate new traditions. Try the four-gift rule with kids: one thing they want, one thing they need, one thing to wear and one thing to read (see sidebar, page 20).

Suggest exchanging locally crafted items with out-of-town family members, so everyone receives a unique gift they’ve never encountered before. Or, turn from packaged products to gift certificates, prepaid memberships and charitable donations.

With friends and family in mind, have fun practicing conscious consumerism with these ideas for gifts of wellness and sustainability.

Favoring Fair Trade

in store. Owner Donna Ratajczak says, “When you buy and sell fair trade, you are making a difference in the world. You are helping the people in these thirdworld countries to be self-sufficient and maintain a stable way of life.” Ratajczak also works with Doctors Without Borders, Hands of Hope and many missionaries.

Some featured items include their large selection of handmade Indian jewelry, Nepalese purses, beaded water bottle holders and handmade bath and beauty products. Kids enjoy Cadeaux Cachés’ collection of scientific toys, from the affordable balance dragonflies that make fascinating, portable ‘pets’ to globes with illuminated city lights around the world.

For Mom and Baby

If there’s a new mom or mom-to-be on your list, Babytalk ES (BabytalkES.com) is a one-stop shop for practical, eco-friendly maternity and baby gifts. Specializing in Medela breast pumps, nursing supplies and cloth diapers, with a lactation consultant on staff, Babytalk is a serviceoriented business and a valuable resource for bay area moms.

At Cadeaux Cachés (Facebook.com/ Fairhope.FairTrade) in downtown Fairhope, customers can shop with a clear conscious knowing that their purchases are supporting sustainable business practices. This unique gift shop carries fair trade items that represent 50 countries and 12 Indian nations, in addition Nepalese purse and balance to the 40 local artists featured dragonflies from Cadeaux Cachés 18

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

For a functional and fashionable gift, Chew Beads jewelry comes in modern designs with babies in mind. These dishwasher-safe accessories are nontoxic and safe for the mouths and hands of teething babies. All Chew Beads are free of BPA, phthalates, lead, cadmium and metal.

For planet-friendly moms, Babytalk ES carries cloth diapers by GroVia and Bum Genius. Cloth diapers have evolved significantly in recent years, now providing a convenient, user-friendly alternative to disposable diapers. Available in a wide range of colors and prints, a cloth diaper makes a nice addition to any new mom’s stocking.

According to owner Jerri Carlisle, Magnificent Baby’s magnetic layette is a popular item that’s drawing in repeat customers.

“Moms that h av e t h e s e

Chew Beads and GroVia diapers from Babytalk ES

Man Cave Box from Chasing Fresh; bath and body products from Zapah Naturals magnetic infant clothes are coming in to buy the next size up. They say that the dads, in particular, love these easyto-fasten outfits!” Additional gift items available at Babytalk include Itzy Ritzy car seat accessories, game day baby attire and So Easy cookbooks and supplies to make homemade baby food.

Gifts for Guys

For the male foodies in the house, stop by Chasing Fresh’s market (ChasingFresh.net), in Fairhope, and order a Man Cave Box. Like all the products available at Chasing Fresh, everything in the Man Cave Box is grown or made in Alabama: Conecuh sausage, Conecuh bacon, farm fresh yard chicken eggs, Wickles Pickles, sweet potatoes, Viper Sauce, boiled peanuts and organic whole milk. If refrigeration is a concern, gift certificates are available.

For a stocking-sized gift, pick up a bottle of Viper Barbecue Sauce, available at Chasing Fresh in Mild BBQ, Chipolte, Sweet No Heat, Cry Baby (habanero), Original Spicy and Devil’s Butt (extra spicy). While this southern gourmet sauce is becoming popular all over the country, it is homemade with natural ingredients in Fairhope.

Courtesy of GroVia.com

Presents That Pamper

Everyone can use a little pampering this time of year. What better way to do so than with a good massage? By giving gift certificates for a massage session, you contribute to the recipient’s wellbeing. Mountain Massage and Day Spa (MountainMassageDaySpa.com), in Fairhope, has been serving residents and tourists of Mobile and Baldwin counties for more than seven years. Owner Nikki Jones, LMT, says, “We pride ourselves on excellent service. We have quiet and

relaxing treatment rooms where we a portion of profits is donated to help use only natural and organic massage less fortunate kids all over the world. and spa product lines.” Their massage During the month of December, online services include transformational neu- shoppers can receive 20 percent off their romuscular, deep tissue, Thai yoga, pre- purchase with coupon code DEC13, and natal, couples, infant, teen and geriatric. shipping is always free. Local retailers The spa menu includes face and scalp include The Health Hut and Lucedale treatments, facials, paraffin dips, steam Herbal Shop. treatments, body polishes and body wraps. Inquire about special massage Stocking Stuffers and spa packages, as well.

Resist buying clutter-enhancing trinkets

Until a spa day can be scheduled, and opt for conscious stocking stuffers pamper your recipient with some luxu- this year. The Willow Tree at Rosie rious bath and body products for home Bluum (RosieBluum.com) offers gifts that use. Zapah Naturals’ (ZapahNaturals. “nurture your spirit and make it smile.” com) handcrafted products are made in This Fairhope store has many handmade Mobile with all natural and organic in- items, from Felt Happy wall hangings gredients. Their soaps, body lotions, oils and locally made jewelry and art to and herbal bath bags come in a variety one-of-a-kind journals. Their Himalaof scents from lemon-eucalyptus and yan salt lamps and organic Soul Flower simply herbal to lavender passion and clothing, for men and women, are also citrus delight. Seasonal products include popular items.

Peppermint Stick moisturizing soap bars To stuff stockings, shop from The and ‘Tis the Season herbal bath bags and Willow Tree’s wide selection of aromasoap made with organic herbs such as therapy products, including Bach Flower cinnamon, clove, basil and peppermint. Essences and Tisserand’s essential oils.

Women love Zapah Naturals prod- Owner Julie Wagner suggests bergaucts, but the company caters to everyone mot essential oil, which has a citrusy on your list. Their specially formulated men’s soap is made with Shea butter, olive and coconut oils, pure essential oils and rosemary leaf for an exfoliating effect.

The fragrance-free baby soap nurtures an infant’s sensitive skin in a natural way and is suitable for all ages.

Zapah Naturals supports the Orthodox Christian Mission Center, and Baudelaire dry brush and Tisserand essential oils from The Willow Tree natural awakenings

September 2013

19

Sunfood snacks from The Willow Tree scent. “It lifts the spirits and brings cheeriness into the home. Use it in a diffuser or in the shower or bath,” she says.

The Baudelaire dry brushes make great stocking stuffers for both men and women. These Japanese-style brushes have natural bristles and are used prior to bathing to detoxify and exfoliate, resulting in polished, smooth skin.

The newest line at The Willow Tree is Sunfood’s raw, organic, non-GMO superfoods. Goji berries, golden berries, cashews and almonds are available in small sizes, and make the perfect tasty addition to anyone’s stocking.

For Furry Family Members

Consider conscious gift alternatives for Fido, too. Instead of rawhide bones purchased from big box stores, try My Happy Dog 123’s (MyHappyDog123.com) locally made gourmet dog treats. Mobilebased owner Viviane Hentschel says, “I bake healthy 'people' food into healthy

dog treats, grainfree of course!

They’re all made fresh, by hand and with love.”

These affordable baked goods are made with fresh produce and beneficial herbs and spices. A range of flavors are regularly available, including peanut butter, salmon tuna, sweet potato and beef liver, and seasonal recipes are developed, as well. Orders can be customized to meet the needs of an individual client, such as allergies, weight control and picky taste buds. Because they’re healthy and delicious, these treats keep the human and the dog happy.

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Virginia’s and Fairhope Health Foods (Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com) offer a wide range of teacher-friendly gifts.

Explore their aisles to assemble an ecofriendly classroom survival kit: natural hand sanitizer, organic coffee and some healthy snacks, packaged in a reusable shopping bag. For do-it-yourselfers, the stores carry essential oils and ingredients for making your own lotions, massage oils and soaps. Locally made candles from Fairhope Soy Candle Company offer an easy option, and you can’t go wrong with a gift certificate towards an organic meal from Sunflower Cafe.

It’s time to make your list; check it twice. Have fun supporting and getting to know these local businesses!

Simplifying Gift Giving with the Four Gift Rule

by Meredith Montgomery

E

veryone loves opening a great present or the gratification of giving a well-received gift. But too often, the meaning of family gift exchanges is watered down by sheer extravagance. It’s easy for parents to go overboard with holiday shopping when faced with extensive wish lists and tempted by copious toy aisles.

For many, implementing the “four gift rule” can help rein in spending and refocus the whole family on the true spirit of the season. The philosophy is simple: in addition to Santa’s delivery, each child is given something to wear, something to read, something they want and something they need.

The Knowles family, in Mobile, turned to the four gift rule last year to focus more on family and giving to others during the holidays. When the concept was presented to her five children Kimberly Knowles expected to hear heavy sighs and moans of disapproval. She recalls, “We talked to them about the nature of giving and

Dog treats from My Happy Dog 123 20

Teacher Gifts

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

the spirit of Christmas. I presented the four gift rule as a poem to them to help them with their Christmas list and was pleasantly surprised by their favorable attitude toward simplifying Christmas and keeping the gift-giving to a minimum.”

Because the four gift rule can greatly reduce the amount of gifts being given, parents might fear disappointment from their kids on Christmas morning. In the Knowles household, the approach made gift-giving more meaningful.

Kimberly explains, “Not only had our children put a lot of thought into their Christmas lists, but we really focused on the individual needs and wants of each of our children. After all the gifts were opened, the kids exclaimed that the four gift rule was a great idea. The joy of what they had received was not about the quantity, but about the quality and thoughtfulness of the gift, something I definitely wanted to impart to my children.”

Conscious Giving Meaningful gifts for the most meaningful people in your life. This holiday season give gifts of health, wellness & sustainability.

Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) DISCOUNT CARDS: Buy 1, Get 1 Free!

Order online with Coupon Code: HOLIDAY13

TinyURL.com/NANCard

A gift of wellness that lasts all year long!

Fair Trade Gift Store

Your one-stop shop for affordable gifts!

Handmade Beauty Products•Ornaments Local Art•Educational Toys•Accessories Jewelry•Home Decor•Local Honey 15% OFF Your Purchase Excludes sale/clearance items & local art. Expires 1/1/14.

Get 2 Cards for $40!

Expires January 30, 2014

337 Fairhope Avenue • 251-990-6460 Facebook.com/Fairhope.FairTrade

We’ve got gifts!

Fair-Trade Jewelry Aromatherapy Products Natural Soaps and Candles Organic Wine Handmade Cards Gift Certificates

Fairhope: Mobile: 251-928-0644 251-345-0494 VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS

BUY ONE, GET ONE HALF OFF 55-MINUTE SESSION GIFT CARDS

May not be combined with any other offers.

Walk-in rates apply. Expires 12/31/13.

Mobile - 6920 Airport Blvd, Ste 111 across from Providence hospital

251.342.6415 - elementsmassage.com/Mobile Find out why people love us at facebook.com/elementsmassage

Pamper loved ones this holiday season...

Therapeutic Massage • Couples Massage Thai Yoga Massage • Prenatal Massage Facials • Body Treatments & More

Gift Certificates Available www.mountainmassagedayspa.com

251-928-0214 • mountainmassagedayspa@gmail.com 209 South Section St in Fairhope

Good enough for you, but made with LOVE for your dog!

Grain-free, gourmet dog treats.

Locally-made with fresh produce and holistic herbs & spices. myhappydog123.com myhappydog123@gmail.com•251-447-9040

Nurture Your Spirit with Retail Therapy for the Soul!

Tisserand Armotherapy•Bach Flower Essences•Books Baudelaire Brushes & Bath Accessories•Himalayan Salt Lamps Jewelry•Shoyeido Incense•Kittrell’s Honey•White Sage Soulflower Organic Clothing•CD's & Music•Local Art and a Full Menu of Services!

6A South Bancroft St, Fairhope 251-517-5326 • RosieBluum.com

relax, you’ve found the perfect gift

What are your pets trying to tell you??

www.HearThemSpeak.com

Heart-Centered Telepathic

Animal Communication & Counseling

Resolve behavior issues and discord between household members of all species through agreeable compromise.

Babette de Jongh is a Reiki master and Body Talk practitioner trained in advanced-level animal communication.

Call 251-424-4944 to schedule a session.

Now Open in Fairhope!

smoothies • enhancers • supplements • snacks 199 Baldwin Square in Fairhope (old Blockbuster building)

28841 Hwy 98, Ste E in Daphne

251-626-5464

Buy a 32 oz smoothie with enhancer, Get one 20 oz smoothie FREE!

Embark upon a healing journey

to a healthier self

and invigorated sense of well-being.

Bella Sundries Wellness Studio Massage • Acupuncture • Reiki Ionic Foot Detox • Shamanic Healing Reflexology • Spiritual Counseling

Make an appointment today! 251-458-8884 6576 Airport Blvd in Mobile www.BellaSundries.Webs.com

digital subscribe to our

MAGAZINE

automatic. free. green.

Subscribe today:

HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com 22

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

naturalpet

Pet First-Aid Kits All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

F

“

irst-aid is the first thing you can do to help an injured animal if you are prepared,” says Dr. Jason Nicholas, owner of The Preventive Vet, in Portland, Oregon. Attention in cases of injury or sudden illness can help a dog or cat stay more comfortable, stop bleeding and provide temporary relief.

A pet first-aid kit can resemble a pantry more than a medicine cabinet.

Natural components include:

Cool water. Purified water kept in a spray bottle can cool overheated pets.

For the fastest results, spray near the pulse points, the “armpits” and where fur is the thinnest. Further, a vet will assess if clinical hydration is needed beyond the water bowl.

Saline solution. Versatile saline is available at the vet’s office or any pharmacy, and also easy and inexpensive to make at home. Use it to flush debris from eyes, clean wounds and promote healing from incisions. Two teaspoons of non-iodized salt in four cups of boiled water mimics body fluids.

The Ohio State University Medical Center website provides a recipe for normal saline solution at Tinyurl.com/SalineRecipe.

Vinegar. It acts as a drying agent, especially for floppy-eared dogs taking a dip in a pool or natural waterway, which can leave the inner ear moist. “Don’t use vinegar if the skin is red or broken because it will be painful,” says Dr.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Jules Benson, vice president of veterinary services at Petplan Pet Insurance, in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Never use it more than twice a week.

Honey. Apply this sweet unguent to gums to help counteract low blood sugar and shock, particularly when a diabetic pet’s insulin levels are off. Maple syrup is a good substitute.

Sugar. Although not recommended in a regular pet diet, sugar can be a topical antibacterial for the short term.

Sugar draws water from the wound and dehydrates bacteria, supporting growth of new tissue.

Plain yogurt. Adding this healthy refrigerated topping to dry food will activate a sluggish appetite and supply needed cultures to help balance the digestive system.

Cornstarch. This non-toxic remedy helps stop minor bleeding from cuts, scrapes and pedicure accidents.

Calendula. Also known as pot marigold, calendula cream may be used as an anti-inflammatory. Bug bites, scrapes, sunburn and itching from allergies also benefit from its application.

Aloe. Easily grown in a garden or pot and available in gel form, aloe sooths burns, prevents blisters and speeds healing.

It also serves as canine Chapstick. “Older dogs often have cracked skin on their noses,” notes Benson. “Aloe helps to heal the skin and keeps the dog comfortable.”

Rescue Remedy.

Illness or injury brings stress, and one common solution is Rescue

Remedy. To relieve fear or anxiety, rub it onto a paw, nose or ears or add the recommended number of drops to water, a treat or food. It helps dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish and even iguanas. Dosage relies on the extent of stress rather than weight or species.

Clean cloths. For bee stings or insect bites on the body, cool compresses can reduce swelling and itching. Wet a washcloth with cold water or for larger welts, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply for a few minutes at a time. For stings on the face or mouth, it’s best to go to the vet’s office immediately, so that airways don’t swell up and hinder breathing.

Miscellaneous supplies. Keep on hand gauze, tape, small scissors, tweezers (for removing objects from the roof of the mouth or splinters), a small flashlight,

clean socks to cover a bandage and disposable gloves to keep human germs out of open wounds. A dog in pain may bite without realizing it. Nicholas recommends a basket muzzle, so the dog can easily breathe and pant.

When a pet eats or drinks non-food items or foods they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, grapes or onions, head to the local vet. Veterinarian Jeff Levy, in New York City, who is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist, counsels, “Always keep contact information for your vet, an emergency hospital and animal poison control center handy.” Also, find out where emergency services are located when traveling.

Pets can go into shock just like humans. To prevent or reduce the impact, keep the animal warm and provide a deep

massage of the ears, at the base, where ears meet the head. A couple of drops of lavender oil on a collar or bandana will help everyone relax. Do not put essential oils directly on the pet, especially cats, as it can be toxic.

Just like children, pets may have accidents or get sick after office hours. Stay calm, head for the natural pet pantry and then call the family’s holistic veterinarian.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLSandyM@ yahoo.com.

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!

Farmers Markets CHASING FRESH MARKET

19176 Highway 181, Fairhope 251-210-6011 • ChasingFresh.net Open 9am-7pm, Monday-Saturday The only produce market in South Alabama where everything is grown, caught and made in Alabama.

Fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, dairy and meats.

Organic and hydroponic options. Delivery to Baldwin and Mobile Counties available. See ad, page 10.

PRODUCE Clubs Windmill Market's Produce Club

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-8883 Info@WindmillMarket.org A weekly delivery of local and seasonal fruits, veggies, organic milk, cheese, grass-fed beef and more delivered from Baldwin County farms to your table every week!

Six box sizes to fit your family's needs. Home delivery and Mobile pickup option also available!

This logo identifies businesses that accept Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) discount cards.

Learn more: www.TinyURL.com/NANCard.

GRoCERY STORES

Restaurants

Fairhope Health Foods

Sunflower Cafe I

Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, organic milk, meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad, back cover.

Organic cafe serving lunch and Sunday brunch.

Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu online. See ad, back cover.

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

320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Sunflower Cafe II

Virginia's Health Foods

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

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, back cover.

Organic cafe and juice bar. Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu online. See ad, back cover.

Sweet Olive bakery & Cafe

WestSide Grocery

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-8883 SweetOlive.co

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-8883 WindmillMarket.org Local grocery sells the area's best produce, grassfed meat, Alabama's Organic milk, locally made cheeses, Gulf seafood, local honey, sweets, baked goods and more! Best prices in town on produce, too!

Open for breakfast and lunch every day until 5 p.m. serving European-style, artisan baked goods; freshly squeezed fruit and veggie juices; smoothies; daily lunch specials like fish tacos and poboys; delicious food to go; hot breakfast plates, and more!

natural awakenings

December 2013

23

Happy, Healthy Living

consciouseating

from the day they’re born.

Medela Breastpumps

(covered by most BCBS policies)

Cloth Diapers & Diapering Supplies Premature & Newborn Clothing Baby Carriers, Gift Baskets & More!

29891 Woodrow Ln, Daphne•www.BabytalkES.com 251-298-TALK • BabytalkES@gmail.com

Give a gift of wellness that lasts all year long:

by Judith Fertig

Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Discount Cards!

HOLIDAY GIFT SPECIAL

Buy 1, Get 1 Free!

Pay only $40 for 2 cards.

Order online: www.TinyURL.com/NANCard

NAN Cards are accepted at more than 75 local businesses.

Health Food Stores, Yoga & Fitness Studios, Eco-Friendly Retailers, Chiropractors, Essential Oil Distributors, Massage Studios, Restaurants and more!

View a complete list of discount providers and order your cards online today!

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

A

s Earth’s population grows to a projected 9 billion people by 2050, can our global community keep eating flesh like we’ve been doing for centuries?

No, according to a 2010 report by the United Nations Environment Programme, an international panel of sustainable resource management experts. Examining the food demands of a growing population and associated environmental and sustainability issues, Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Consumption and Production recommends “substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products.”

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

Web of Understanding

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

Coupon Code: HOLIDAY13 Expires Jan 30, 2014 24

Peace on Our Plates Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World porate what we create. It is also the only art that fully involves all five senses,” he says.

We honor this wonderful activity most by sharing our cooking efforts with others, blessing the food and eating mindfully.

The problem at the center of life, maintains Tuttle, is that we involve animals in our food chain, an act that “introduces suffering, whether physical, mental or emotional.” This is a truth we try to hide from, what he calls the ”cultural shadow”. “The worst examples include factory farming, but even the best methods ultimately involve killing other animals for food,” he says.

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

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

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

photo by Stephen Blancett

A Maternity, Breastfeeding and Baby Store with a Certified Lactation Consultant on staff.

aggressive and violent behavior.

One recent study seems to support his claim. Dr. Neil Barnard, in his book, Foods That Fight Pain, remarks that, “Plant-based diets also help tame testosterone’s activity.”

Barnard cites a Massachusetts male aging study of 1,552 men ages 40 to 70, which indicated that men eating more fruits and vegetables than meat were less domineering and aggressive, because the increased sex hormone-binding globulin produced by plants helps keep testosterone in check.

“If we continue the meat-centric way of eating, we’re going to continue to have the problems that come with it,” says Tuttle. “The way forward is plant-based agriculture.”

Practicing a World Peace Diet

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

For a typical breakfast, for example, Tuttle and his wife, Madeleine, will make a green smoothie that includes kale, banana, apple, grapes, ground flax, chia seeds, cinnamon and fresh ginger. “It’s a flexible drink,” says Tuttle. “We will swap out whatever organic fruits and vegetables we have so that we vary the flavor from time to time.” For example, they might use parsley, spinach, or chard leaves in place of kale, or citrus in place of grapes.

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

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

Learn more at WorldPeaceDiet.org/ articles.htm.

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

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

Green Smoothie

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

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

Yields two servings

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

Place the tortillas on a flat surface.

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

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

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

Yields two servings Rice: 1 cup brown rice 2¼ cups water

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

Whole Wheat and Vegetable Wrap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

natural awakenings

December 2013

25

It’s Always a Bright, Sunshiny Day When You Love Your Work.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own one of Lower Alabama’s most exciting businesses.

Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin is For Sale

This is a turnkey business. The current owners wish to transition the publication to someone with similar passion, enthusiasm and vision.

Huge Income Potential • No Experience Needed • Training Provided Well-established, growing business since 2003 • Business includes the NAN discount card program 30,000+ loyal readers • 425+ distribution points Work from home on your own schedule • Professional editorial and design support team in place

Work together with a supportive, franchised network of 90+ Natural Awakenings publishers

call 239-530-1377 today for more information

w w w . N a tu r alAw ak enings Mag.c om

GET ACTIVE!

fitbody

Local Holiday Events

Too Much Togetherness?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

G

iven family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly, holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University.

Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern modality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter.

To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga workout. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treating family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness.

Yogic breathing patterns also are shown to lower resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intra-family disagreements or other stressors.

For a quick, relaxing yoga routine, begin with a few

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

Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up tension by pushing against a wall. Stand about three feet away, lean in and push. Position feet at an angle so that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor. This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us to walk away feeling light and limber.

While some people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit anxious. For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try a cardiovascular workout like running, which German researchers published in Cere-

Couch to 5k Running Program Sole2SoulSisters.com 4 p.m. on Sundays, December 8 to February 2 Daphne High School, Spanish Fort High School

For ladies wanting to get active. After this free, nine-week training program, you will be running a 5k! A great way to ease into running in a non-intimidating atmosphere.

Holiday Practice and Prasad Party KulaYogaCommunity.org 2 to 4:30 p.m., December 15 Centre for the Living Arts, Mobile Join the Kula Yoga Community for a Sunday afternoon celebration of yoga, food, fellowship and holiday fun. The yoga practice is beginner-friendly. The $10 class fee will be donated to the Yoga Health Foundation.

Holiday Stress Relief Saturday Kundalini Series Synergyoga.net 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., December 7 and 14 Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile Kundalini yoga is a dynamic system combining posture, breath, movement and concentration. The exercises and meditations aim to improve physical health and vitality, as well as mental focus. $15 per class.

Christmas Eve Holiday Celebration PranaHealthAndWellness.com 9 a.m., December 24 Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope Celebrate the season with this free yoga class open to all levels. Families are welcome.

New Year’s Day Yoga Class PranaHealthAndWellness.com 11 a.m., January 1 Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope Welcome 2014 with a healthy start. This is a free community yoga class open to all levels.

New Year’s Detox at Glow Yoga Glow-Yoga.com January 1 Glow Yoga, Gulf Shores All regularly scheduled yoga classes will be designed to detox and cleanse to start the New Year off right.

For a full list of December classes and events, see the Community Calendar in this issue.

TYPHOON HAIYAN

Since 1945, CARE has worked to deliver lasting change to families and communities in need around the world. When disaster strikes, like super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, CARE is among the first to arrive and the last to leave, bringing immediate relief to those hardest hit.

Your donation to CARE will give survivors a chance to rebuild their lives.

DELIVER LASTING CHANGE Visit care.org or call 800.521.CARE

Photo Credit: REUTERS/Erik De Castro, courtesy Trust.org

© CARE 2013

Healthy& GREEN Living

DIRECTORY 28

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

bral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue. A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthening the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay.

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

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor cardiovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pumping. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack during holiday loafing a chance to flex. Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.

After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness. For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hiking, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee. Participating in friendly family competition is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

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

Coming in

FEBRUARY 2014 Fitness & Nutrition•Health & Wellness Personal Growth•Green Living

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

www.TinyURL.com/DirectoryNA

calendarofevents Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Go to TinyURL.com/NACalendar to submit entries.

Friday, December 6

Master Gardener Greenery Sale – Dec 6-7.

9am-4pm, Dec 6, 9am-1pm, Dec 7. Fresh, fragrant Fraser Fir wreaths from North Carolina, Fraser Fir garlands, mailbox saddles, mantel toppers, centerpieces, greenery bundles, paperwhites, Christmas cacti and more. Proceeds go to horticulture education and horticulture scholarship. Free. Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Dr, Mobile.

251-574-8445. MobileMasterGardeners@gmail. com. ACES.edu/Mobile/mg.

Saturday, December 7

Quantum-Touch Level I with Julie E Brent – 9:30am-5:30pm. Dec 7-8. QT works deep on the cellular level, raising your energy, this creates an environment for the innate healing intelligence of the body to activate. No experience necessary, anyone can do this. 13 NCTMB CEs included, Nurse CEs available.

QuantumTouch.com. $350 prepaid/$400 at the door.

Reiki Center of Fairhope (location details at registration). 251-504-5328. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail. com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

Santa Visits Fish River Trees – 10am-4pm. Dec 7-8.

Visit Santa at the tree farm! Pick out a Christmas tree, ride the free Tannenbaum Express, visit the live manager scene and take a camel or pony ride ($5). Home of the “Living Christmas Trees.” Fish River Trees, 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd E, Summerdale. 251-988-8114.

FishRiverTrees@gultel.com. FishRiverTrees.com.

Holiday Stress Relief Saturday Kundalini Series – 11am-12:15pm. Dec 7 and 14. Kundalini yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is a dynamic system combining posture, breath, movement and concentration.

The exercises and meditations aim to improve physical health and vitality as well as mental focus. Come and revel in the experience! $15/class. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Tuesday, December 10

markyourcalendar Green Drinks Kick-Off

Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks who are concerned about the environment.

With a local drink in one hand and environmental concerns in the other, connect with other progressive people in our area. Complimentary food from Sweet Olive, beer specials and music. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks.

December 10 • 5-7pm

Fairhope Brewing Company 914 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope MobileBayAreaGreenDrinks@gmail.com Facebook.com/MobileBayAreaGreenDrinks

Friday, December 13

InsideUp Open House – 6-9pm. During LoDa Art Walk. Featuring live music by saxophonist, Jerry Robbins. Home accents, apparel, hand-made jewelry, handbags, all occasion and seasonal gifts, spa products, greeting cards and other stationery items. Over 25 local artisans! Free. 7 N Conception St, Mobile (across from Bienville Square). Becky Nance: 251-438-6788

Saturday, December 14

Usui Reiki I & II Certification with Julie E Brent – 9:30am-5:30pm. Dec 14-15. Two Reiki attunements, plenty of practice time, learn to use Reiki to the fullest upon completion of workshop. Julie studied with the International Center for Reiki Training teaching energy healing since 1994. You will learn self-healing techniques. $299 prepaid/$350 at the door. Reiki Center of Fairhope, Fairhope. Call Julie: 251-504-5328. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@ gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

Santa Visits Fish River Trees – 10am-4pm. Dec 14-15.

Visit Santa at the tree farm! Pick out a Christmas tree, ride the free Tannebaum Express, visit the live manager scene and take a camel or pony ride ($5). Home of the “Living Christmas Trees.” Fish River Trees, 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd E, Summerdale. 251-988-8114.

FishRiverTrees@gultel.com. FishRiverTrees.com.

The 2nd Annual Mobile/Baldwin

Healthy& GREEN Living

DIRECTORY Fitness & Nutrition Health & Wellness Personal Growth Sustainable & Green Living

Promote your business all year for only $99!

Reach our health-conscious readers with year-round distribution of this special edition, both in print and online.

Sunday, December 15

Holiday Practice and Prasad Party – 2-4:30pm.

You are invited to join the Kula Yoga Community for a Sunday afternoon celebration of yoga, food, fellowship and holiday fun. 90-min all levels, beginner-friendly style yoga practice. 100% of donations going to the Yoga Health Foundation. $10.

Centre for the Living Arts, 301 Conti St, Mobile.

KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Wednesday, January 1

New Year’s Detox Day at Glow Yoga – All regularly scheduled classes will be designed to detox and cleanse to start the new year off right. Glow Yoga, 824 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores. 251-216-4569.

Jennifer@Glow-Yoga.com. Glow-Yoga.com.

Thursday, January 2

Aerial Kids Camp – 4:30-5:30pm. Thursdays, Jan 2-30. A fun flying time for kids ages 6 to 12! First come, first swing! $100. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile. 251-470-9642. TheFitNest@yahoo.com.

Facebook.com/JenniferHuntFitness.

Sunday, January 12

40 Days to Personal Revolution – This is the first class of a 6-week yoga detox program. Open to all levels. Glow Yoga, 824 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores. 251-216-4569. Jennifer@Glow-Yoga.com.

Glow-Yoga.com.

Some of the options: $99 for 1 listing $149 for 3 listings (3 different categories)

$200 for business profiles (200 words plus a photo or logo)

$450 ad packages

(1/4 pg ad, business profile and 3 listings)

Deadline: January 10, 2014

See sample listings and learn more: www.TinyURL.com/DirectoryNA

Reserve your space today!

251-990-9552

natural awakenings

December 2013

29

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

OpenTable@gmail.com. OpenTableUCC.org.

ongoingevents Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Go to TinyURL.com/NACalendar to submit entries.

sunday Discounts on Supplements – Every Sunday get 15% off supplements at Fairhope Health Foods (251-928-0644) and Virginia's Health Foods (251345-0494). 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope and 3952 Airport Blvd, Mobile. VAFairhopeHealthFoods.com.

Roots & Wings – 9:30am. Class focuses on stretching, breath and creating the strength and stability needed to challenge ourselves. All of this is done in a safe, supportive environment honoring your body and practice. All levels are welcome. $10 without membership. Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope.

251-455-9359. PranaHealthandWellness.com.

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.

monday

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

Vinyasa Flow Yoga – 8:30am. Likened to a dynamic dance, this is a practice where postures are connected through the breath. This class will build heat, endurance, flexibility and strength. $15. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile. 251-470-9642.

TheFitNest@yahoo.com.

Unlimited Horizons of the Emerald Coast – 2:30-5:30pm. 2nd Sunday. Open to public. All are invited to join this forum of open-minded seekers of Universal truth. Share knowledge & promote enlightenment. Monthly speakers present on a variety of metaphysical topics. $7. Gulf Breeze Recreation Center, 800 Shoreline Dr, Gulf Breeze, FL. 850-610-0919. UnlimitedHorizons1@gmail. com. Unlimited-Horizons.org.

Doggie Happy Hour – 5-7pm. First Mondays.

A rescue networking event hosted by My Happy Dog 123. Bring your dog for drinks and live music while raising money for a local rescue foundation.

Q&A with local vets. Free grain-free dog treats.

Raffle prizes. Puppy photo booth. Free. OK Bicycle Shop, 661 Dauphin St, Mobile. Viviane Hentschel: MyHappyDog123@gmail.com. MyHappyDog123. com. Facebook.com/myhappydog123.

Live Pain-Free – 4pm. Third Sun. Is chronic pain hindering your lifestyle? You can be pain-free. Join certified massage therapist Luke Fondren for an informational seminar on drug-free pain relief and learn techniques that you can begin using immediately!

Free. Olena Wellness Center, 6925 Cottage Hill Rd, Ste D, Mobile. Call/text to confirm 251-298-9520.

Total Barre – 5:30pm. Barre based fitness class that is designed to tone, strengthen and lengthen the body. $15. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile.

251-470-9642. TheFitNest@yahoo.com. Facebook. com/JenniferHuntFitness.

Sole2Soul Sisters Couch to 5k Running Program – 4pm. Sundays, Dec 8-Feb 2. Ladies who are wanting a more active lifestyle can come out and join this Couch to 5k group starting in December. After this nine week training program you will be running a 5k!

Just show up to the first meeting ready to walk/run your way to a 5k. Free. Daphne High School Track and Spanish Fort High School Track. Contact Katrina: Sole2SoulSisters@yahoo.com. Sole2SoulSisters.com.

Mindfulness Practice and Meditation – 5:45pm.

Mindfulness Meditation Practice in the tradition of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. No experience necessary. $5 donation. Plantation Antique Galleries, 604 Bel Air Blvd. (back entrance). $5 suggested donation. Plantation Antique Galleries, 604 Bel Air Bvld,

PUBLISH YOUR OWN Natural Awakenings publishes in over 88 NATURAL AWAKENINGS markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico • Oklahoma City, OK • Indianapolis, IN • Birmingham, AL • Portland, OR* • Lafayette, LA • Huntsville, AL MAGAZINE • Bucks/Montgomery • New Orleans, LA • Mobile/Baldwin, AL* WORKING TOGETHER TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE

• • • • • • • • • • • •

For more information contact Anna Romano at: (239) 530-1377 or go online to: NaturalAwakeningsMag.com 30

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Little Rock/Hot Spg., AR* Phoenix, AZ Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA Los Angeles, CA* San Diego, CA Denver/Boulder, CO Fairfield County, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/St. Aug., FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & Florida Keys* Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL* Orlando, FL Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL FL’s Treasure Coast Atlanta, GA* Chicago No. Shore, IL

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Boston, MA Western, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Grand Rapids, MI Wayne County, MI Minneapolis, MN Asheville, NC* Charlotte, NC Triangle, NC Central, NJ Hudson County, NJ Mercer County, NJ Monmouth/Ocean, NJ North NJ North Central NJ South NJ* Santa Fe/Abq., NM Las Vegas, NV Albany, NY Central NY Long Island, NY Manhattan, NY Rockland/Orange, NY Westchester/ Putnam Co’s., NY • Central OH • Cincinnati, OH • Toledo, OH

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Counties, PA Harrisburg/York, PA Lancaster, PA Lehigh Valley, PA Pocono, PA/ Warren Co., NJ Rhode Island Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Grand Strand, SC* Greenville, SC* Chattanooga, TN Knoxville, TN Memphis, TN Nashville, TN* Austin, TX* Dallas, TX Dallas/FW Metro N Houston, TX* San Antonio, TX Richmond, VA VA’s Blue Ridge Seattle, WA Madison, WI Milwaukee, WI Puerto Rico

*Existing magazines for sale

Mobile. 251-422-5474. JoanWSDixon@gmail.com.

Meetup.com/MindfulnessMobile/.

Outstretched Christ-Centered Yoga Class – 5:45pm. Also at 8:15am on Wed. Each week Pneuma offers two donation-only yoga classes open to the public. Classes are appropriate for all levels and include a Christ-centered devotion. Donation only.

1901 Main St, Daphne. See website for more info: Pneuma-Yoga-Movement.com.

Pranic Healing and Meditation Session – 6:30pm.

Experience healing for your mind, body and soul followed by the Meditation on Twin Hearts for inner peace and planetary blessings. Let us take the stress off and balance your aura. We all have the ability to heal ourselves and others! Classes available! Free. Center for Spiritual Living-Mobile. Deana Lannie: 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. $8/drop-in, $60/10 class package, $85/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Highway 98 East, Foley. 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541. TinyURL. com/TrinityYogaFoleyAL. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area – 10:30am. La Leche League meetings are open to all women with an interest in learning about and supporting breastfeeding. Meetings are always free and babies/children are welcome. 251-689-2085. For location information or breastfeeding help contact AmandaLLLMobile@ yahoo.com or MeghanLLL@yahoo.com.

Grief Recovery Meeting – 1-2:30pm. This is a Christian-based grief recovery program for all losses. Experienced, professional and compassionate staff members support you through the grief process with the goal of transitioning into a renewed life of purpose and fulfillment. Ascension Funerals & Cremations, 1016 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile. 251-6348055. AscensionFuneralGroup.com.

Yoga Conditioning – 1pm. Spend an hour focusing on conditioning, building strength and flexibility. Designed to enhance and support your yoga practice. $10 without membership. Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope.

251-455-9359. PranaHealthandWellness.com.

Gentle Stress Relief – 4:30pm. Slow flowing, joint opening movement with emphasis on breath awareness and meditation. Appropriate for beginners or anyone who wants a soothing and gentle yoga practice. $10. Center for Spiritual Living, Mobile.

KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Pilates Mat & Equipment Combo – 5:15pm. Join Dana and use controlled movement to develop core strength, increased flexibility and improved posture. A variety of mat exercises will be combined with work on the Reformer and EXO Chair to develop and challenge the core. Reservations are required. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

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. $8/drop-in, $60/10 class package, $85/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Hwy 98 East, Foley. 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541. TinyURL.com/TrinityYogaFoleyAL.

Positive Parenting Class – 6-8pm. Also Wed. at 9:30am. 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. 1st Tues. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort.

Ask the Doctor: Nutrition Information Class – 6:30-7:45pm. Second Tues. Food is your best medicine and small changes can dramatically improve your health, but where do you start? Don't get overwhelmed! Bring your questions to Brian Smith, DC and Gaie Feuerstein, DC. $5. Olena Wellness Center, 6925 Cottage Hill Rd, Ste, D, Mobile. Call/ text to confirm: 251-300-1335.

Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. 1st 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.

wednesday Early Morning Flow – 7am. Jumpstart your day with an hour of vinyasa. $10 without membership.

Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope. 251-4559359. PranaHealthandWellness.com.

$5 Yoga Flow & Chair – 9:15am, Flow. 10:30am, Chair Yoga (seated or holding onto chair to practice balance). Beginners welcome. Bring your own mat.

Enjoy exercise at every level. Improve balance, strength and flexibility. $5. Fairhope UMC CLC. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com.

Fowl River Tai Chi – 10am. Join certified Qigong/Tai Chi teacher, Jude Forsyth, for this 1.15 hr class in the ancient Chinese moving meditation exercise. Perfect for beginners. $10. 5401 Fowl River Rd, Theodore.

850-226-9355. BlueWillowWellness.com.

Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis – 12-1pm. This chair yoga class is free to participants and funded by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Build strength and flexibility while improving balance and circulation. Enjoy exercise at every level, even in a wheelchair. Improve balance, strength and flexibility. Free. Fairhope UMC CLC. 251-379-4493.

ThriveFairhope.com.

Beginners Yoga – 5pm. This is the perfect class for the beginning or returning yogi. Learn the fundamentals of yoga in a safe, supportive environment.

Taught by Wayne Kent, RYT. $10 without membership. Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope. 251-4559359. PranaHealthandWellness.com.

Total Barre – 5:30pm. Barre based fitness class that is designed to tone, strengthen and lengthen the body. $15. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile.

251-470-9642. TheFitNest@yahoo.com. Facebook. com/JenniferHuntFitness.

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.

Mid-Week Breather – 6-7:15pm. Join Amanda Barfield for alignment-based yoga with attention to breath, form and fun. Beginners are welcome, as we explore the components of assorted poses and offer variations that best serve you. Seasoned yogis enjoy the opportunity to revisit their foundation. $12/drop-in. $5/first class. Integrated Health & Wellness, Fairhope. InHealthWell.com.

Near Death and Related Consciousness and Spiritual Experiences – 6pm. 2nd Wed. Mobile affiliate group of IANDS. All are welcome to share experiences and support. Beginning our 11th year. Free. West Regional Branch, Mobile Public Library, Grelot Rd (near University Blvd). 251-340-8565. IANDS.org.

Guided Meditation – 7pm. Guided meditation with Betsey Grady. Meditation is a wonderful way to quiet the mind, still the body and relax your being.

Suggested donation of $5. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope.

251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

thursday 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. $8/drop-in, $60/10 class package, $85/family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Highway 98 East, Foley. 251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541. TinyURL. com/TrinityYogaFoleyAL. Qigong Tai Chi Mobile – 10am or 6:30pm. Two times to choose from to join Jude Forsyth, certified teacher, in the ancient Chinese moving meditation exercise. Perfect for beginners. $12. Quiet Mind Studio, 2065 Old Shell Rd, Mobile. 850-226-9355.

BlueWillowWellness.com

Yoga with Dana – 10am. Is your week driving you crazy? Take a break in your busy morning and join Dana to transform the body, relieve stress and relax the mind. Leave feeling on top of the world!

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

Synergyoga.net.

On-The-Go Flow – 1pm. Have an hour before the kids get picked up? Why not spend it doing an hour of yoga? Practice will consist of traditional asana and flow. Appropriate for most levels. $10 without membership. Prana Health and Wellness, Fairhope.

251-455-9359. PranaHealthandWellness.com.

Gentle Stress Relief – 4:30pm. Slow flowing joint opening movement with emphasis on breath awareness and meditation. Appropriate for beginners or anyone who wants a soothing and gentle yoga practice. $10. Center for Spiritual Living, Mobile.

251-591-7094. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

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. $8/drop-in, $60/10 class package, $85/ family. Trinity Yoga Studio, Hwy 98 East, Foley.

251-987-1147 or 251-609-5541. TinyURL.com/ TrinityYogaFoleyAL. Gentle Stress Relief – 6pm. End your day with a slow flowing joint opening movement with emphasis on breath awareness and meditation. Appropriate for beginners or anyone who wants a soothing and gentle yoga practice. $10. Daphne Recreation Center, 2605 Hwy 98, Daphne. 251-591-7094. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

natural awakenings

December 2013

31

classifieds Fee for classified listings is $1 per word. 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 and support available. Be in business for yourself but not by yourself. See ad, page 26.

MASSAGE THERAPIST NEEDED – LMT part time position available in Fairhope Day Spa. Please call 251-928-0214.

VOLUNTEER opps AZALEA CITY CAT COALITION – Volunteers needed in any capacity. Contact Susan Young: 251-648-7582. SusanYoung@ AzaleaCityCats.org.

DOG RIVER CLEARWATER REVIVAL STORM DRAIN MARKER 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.

Body, Mind, Spirit, Coffee, Tea & Conversation Social Meet-Up Group – 6:30-8:30pm. 1st Thurs.

The Body, Mind & Spirit Group of Florida: Emerald Coast. Each meet-up will have an array of activities, speakers, products, samples, demonstrations, practitioners and networking opportunities. $5. Pensacola, FL. Call for details: 850-941-4321. BMSFL.com.

It's a Skinny Wrap Party! – 6:30-7:45pm. Skinny Wraps are herbal body wraps that can be applied from the neck down to help tighten, tone and firm the skin in 45 minutes. Come learn about this amazing product and sample free nutritional products while we discuss healthy weight loss options. $25/wrap.

Space is limited. Olena Wellness Center, 6925 Cottage Hill Rd, Ste D, Mobile. Call/text to confirm: 251-554-0854.

friday Vinyasa Flow Yoga – 8:30am. Likened to a dynamic dance, this is a practice where postures are connected through the breath. This class will build heat, endurance, flexibility and strength. $15. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile. 251-470-9642.

TheFitNest@yahoo.com.

Core Barre with Dana – 10am. Give yourself the best seat in the house with Core Barre—work your body to a fusion of ballet, Pilates, yoga and classic fitness. Move to fun music and really change your shape! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-4731104. Synergyoga.net.

Friday Evening Yoga – 5:45pm. Our Evening Yoga Rotation: Join Brooke, Stacy or Leigh and wind down the work week in grand style. Get ready for the busy weekend ahead—enhance the body's potential while refreshing and renewing the spirit. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Meditation Flash Mob – 6-6:30pm. First Fri. First Fridays before Art Walk. No experience is necessary. Come sit in peace with us to invite the world to the benefits of meditation and collective prayer.

Kids and pets are welcome, too. Free. Corner of

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.

Hoping Praise Duality Judging Worship Victimization Fearful Thoughts Unconsciousness Sundays: 9:30am Meditation and 10:00am Service 1230 Montlimar Drive (off Airport) Mobile, Al 36609 251-343-0777 Email: cslmobile09@gmail.com www.centerforspiritualliving-mobile.org facebook.com/centerforspirituallivingmobile

32

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Knowing Gratitude Oneness Acceptance Celebration Personal Responsibility Affirmative Prayer Awakening

Center for Spiritual Living-Mobile It’s like night and day.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Fairhope Ave and Bancroft Ave (in front of the small fountain next to Julwin's), Fairhope. 251-517-5626.

Facebook.com/MedMobGCA.

saturday Saturday Morning Yoga with Augusta – 7:308:45am. All levels. 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.

Free Train Rides – 8am-5pm. Nov 29-Dec 23. The Tannenbaum Express, our tree train, is up and running for free farm tours on weekends. Come join the fun! Free. Home of the “Living Christmas Trees.”

Fish River Trees, 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd E, Summerdale. 251-988-8114. FishRiverTrees@ gultel.com. FishRiverTrees.com.

Saturday Morning Yoga – 9am. Join Beverley, Leigh, Faye or Angela and start your weekend with a revitalizing class. Refresh and renew the spirit while you recharge the body—bring the joy and zest back as you kick start your day! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Aerial Swing Yoga – 9:30am. Aerial swing yoga class. $23. The Fit Nest, 2569 Dauphin St, Mobile.

251-470-9642. TheFitNest@yahoo.com. Facebook. com/JenniferHuntFitness.

Meditation – 10am. Meditation with Betsey Grady.

Meditation is a wonderful way to quiet the mind, still the body and relax your being. Suggested donation of $5. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope. 251-517-5626.

RosieBluum.com.

Open Flow Yoga – 11:15am. Join Kula Yoga community at Space 301 for an open flow all levels practice. Postures may be more advanced and move more quickly than gentle or basic classes. Appropriate for fit beginners and beyond. $10. Centre of the Living Arts, 301 Conti St, Mobile. 251-591-7094.

KulaYogaCommunity.org.

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity. To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect. ~Oren Arnold

naturaldirectory

ECO-friendly Products

Connecting you to the leaders in healthy and green living in our community. To be included in the Natural Directory, email Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

Did you miss our 2013 annual Healthy and Green Living Directory?

Contact us to find out where you can pick up a copy of this expanded edition, or read it online now at TinyURL.com/NAFeb13.

ACUPUNCTURE BELLA SUNDRIES WELLNESS STUDIO 6576 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-458-8884 BellaSundries.Webs.com

Offering auricular acupuncture which utilizes 108 points in the ear that correlate to different parts of the body. Therapeutic for physical, emotional, digestive and respiratory problems. See ad, page 22.

BABY PRODUCTS & SERVICES BABYTALK EASTERN SHORE

TKR Center, Daphne 251-298-8255 • BabyTalkES@gmail.com BabytalkES.com • Facebook.com/BabytalkES A maternity, breastfeeding and baby store specializing in Medela breastpumps (covered by most BCBS policies), cloth diapers, premature & newborn clothing and baby carriers. Certified Lactation Consultant on staff. See ad, page 24.

beauty B-BUTTERFLY SALON

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

B-Butterfly offering organic products, SALON

and services including hair color, perms and shampoo. Visit us for a free hair exam today and go organic! Manicures, pedicures and eyebrow waxing also available.

See ad, page 4.

ZAPAH NATURALS

251-776-4382 CS@ZapahNaturals.com ZapahNaturals.com All-natural, handcrafted bath and body products made in Mobile using natural and organic ingredients. Soaps, lotions, oils and more.

Call today or order online. Free shipping! See ad, page 11.

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

THE WILLOW TREE AT ROSIE BLUUM 6A South Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-517-5326 or 251-751-6945 RosieBluum.com

Offering gifts and services that nurture your spirit. Books, card decks, essential oils, Bach Flower Remedies, crystals, salt lamps, incense and organic clothing. Meditation, yoga, massage, MARI, intuitive readings.

See ad, page 21.

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

Center for Spiritual Living 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile 251-343-0777 CenterForSpiritualLiving-Mobile.org

Rev. Sherrie 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. Sundays at 10 a.m. See ad, page 32.

CADEAUX CACHÉS

337 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope 251-990-6460 Facebook.com/Fairhope.FairTrade A unique gift store featuring fair trade items from around the world and over 40 local artists. Handmade beauty products, home décor, jewelry, scientific toys and more. See ad, page 21.

FOODS & nutrition CHASING FRESH MARKET

19176 Highway 181, Fairhope 251-210-6011 • Facebook.com/ChasingFresh Open 9am-7pm, Monday-Saturday The only produce market in S out h A l a b a m a w h e re everything is grown, caught and made in Alabama. Fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, dairy and meats. Delivery to Baldwin and Mobile Counties available.

See ad, page 10.

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

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 p.m.

Childcare provided.

See ad, page 7.

DENTISTRY DR. DAYTON HART, DM

IAOMT Protocol 225 West Laurel Avenue, Foley 251-943-2471 • DrDaytonHart.com Free book for new patients: Mercury Free Dentistry. Offering ozone; laser (no-suture) gum surgery; testing for compatible materials and cavity-causing bacteria; examine for gum disease and bacteria; laser cavity diagnoses; saliva pH check; oral galvanic screening; no fluoride.

fairhope health foods and the sunflower cafÉ

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.

See ad, back cover.

NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses.

Visit www.TinyURL.com/ NANCard for details.

Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings at these businesses!

natural awakenings

December 2013

33

FOODS & nutrition Cont.

THE HEALTH HUT

pranic healing in mobile Deana Lannie 251-454-0959

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

680 S. Schillinger, Mobile: 251-633-0485 (Across from Home Depot) 6845 Hwy 90, Daphne: 251-621-1865 (Across from Fresh Market)

able staff. See ad, page 11.

For 30 years The Health Hut has been the go-to place for high quality, whole-food vitamins, herbs and sport supplements at great prices. Service-oriented, knowledge-

virginia’s health foods AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II 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 37 years. See ad, back cover.

GREEN BUILDING EARTHSTONE CONSTRUCTION

Natural, Energy-Efficient Structures 153 Cedar Ridge Road, Lucedale, MS 601-818-9600 • Vaughn_2@bellsouth.net EarthStoneConstruction.com

SPIRIT ENLIGHTEN

Renee Adcock, B.Div. Reiki II, Essential Oils Therapy 251-279-0298 • SpiritEnlighten.com Authorized owner and operator, John of God Crystal Light Healing Bed a modality to cleanse, balance and align your energies to promote healing. Call for more information or an appointment.

PET SERVICES HEAR THEM SPEAK

Telepathic Animal Communication Babette de Jongh 251-424-4944 • HearThemSpeak.com Babette is a Reiki master and Body Talk practitioner trained in advanced-level communication and counseling for professional animal communicators by Penelope Smith, a pioneer in the field of animal communication. See ad, page 22.

sustainable living MIDDLE EARTH HEALING AND LEARNING CENTER

20205 Middle Earth Road, Citronelle 251-866-7204 • MiddleEarthHealing.com 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 10.

Massage JEN ADAMS, LMT

22787 US 98, Bdg D Ste 5, Montrose 251-616-4201 • JenAdamsLMT.info JenAdams.Massage@gmail.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.

TAI CHI JUDE FORSYTH

Qigong/Tai Chi Teacher 850-226-9355 BlueWillowWellness.com AM/PM Qigong and Tai Chi classes in Midtown Mobile and Theodore; private and company classes also available.

Locally sourced material and virtually indestructible!

Healthy, green and beautiful. Homes, patios, pizza ovens and more. Free estimates.

metaphysical GREEN HOLIDAYS

UNLIMITED HORIZONS

FISH RIVER CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Road East Summerdale, AL 36580 251-988-8114 • FishRiverTrees.com

Home of the Living Christmas Trees.

Don't discard your tree after the holidays, plant it! Fresh-cut fir, spruce and sno-tip trees; choose and cut trees; wreaths, garland and centerpieces; container-grown living trees. See ad, page 2.

HEALING ARTS BODY IN SPIRIT

Rev. K Laurendine, ERYT, LMT, RMT, BA 251-753-1937 • KellyLaurendine@gmail.com BodyInSpirit.com Spiritual counseling, movement/yoga, energy and empowerment workshops, EFT, Reiki certifications, ministerial services, pet blessings.

34

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 850-610-0919 • Unlimited-Horizons.org UnlimitedHorizons1@gmail.com A monthly forum for open-minded seekers of Universal truth through the metaphysical, holistic, paranormal, cryptozoological and extraterrestrial.

PEST CONTROL

WELLNESS OLENA WELLNESS CENTER

6925 Cottage Hill Road, Suite D. Mobile, AL 36695 251-300-1335 • Find us on Facebook Our practitioners give your body the support it needs to function as it was designed. We offer chiropractic, ANA, applied kinesiology, acupuncture, QRA, body wraps, detox and all-natural pain relief.

HOUSEHOLD TERMITE & PEST CONTROL Serving Mobile and Baldwin Counties 866-943-7874 HouseholdPest.com

Full service, environmentally responsible pest management company and do-it yourself store specializing in termites, general pests, bed bugs, thermal remediation, mosquitoes, wildlife rem o v a l , m o i s t u r e c o n trol, TAP insulation. See ad, 12.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

YOGA GLOW YOGA

824 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores 251-216-GLOW Glow-Yoga.com Hot and cool vinyasa style yoga. Work hard and work up a sweat, rejuvenating the body and calming the mind as you flow to energizing music. Our classes empower students of all levels. See ad, page 17.

A DV E RTO R I A L

Natural Iodine Supplementation W

A Must for Most Americans

e all need iodine, yet most of us don’t get enough of it through our diet. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that iodine deficiency in the developed world has increased fourfold in the past 40 years and now affects nearly three-quarters of all adults.

Numerous U.S. practicing physicians quoted widely in the media estimate that the incidence of hypothyroidism in our adult population may be between 30 and 70 percent.

Thus, we can’t efficiently produce the thyroid hormones that serve as chemical messengers triggering nearly every bodily function. The presence or absence of iodine affects our every cell.

Natural Awakenings Detoxifed Iodine is 100 percent natural, raw iodine in an ethyl alcohol solution. We thank all those that are benefiting from this product and enthusiastically telling us their great results.  Available only at NAWebstore.com  My wife, who suffered from extreme fatigue and other symptoms, saw a dramatic increase in energy after just a few days of taking the natural iodine drops. Now if she misses a day, she’ll end up falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon, like she used to do before taking the iodine. It works! ~ Aaron My doctor told me that I had a hypothyroid condition, prescribed medication and was happy with the follow-up test results, yet I noticed no positive effects on my overall wellbeing. Within two weeks of using the Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine, I had more energy, felt more awake and enjoyed clearer thinking and greater peace of mind. People even comment that I look younger. I am a fan! ~ Larry

Be Aware of Hypothyroidism Symptoms Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, is the most recognized and obvious indicator of low iodine intake because the thyroid gland contains more concentrated iodine than other organs.

Symptoms can range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and a variety of skin and hair problems.

Hypothyroidism can further cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers. In children, insufficient iodine has been strongly linked with mental retardation,

deafness, attention deficient and hyperactivity disorder and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University, China’s Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and France’s National Academy of Medicine.

The answer is simple: Taking the right kind of iodine in the right dosage can rebalance thyroid function and restore health to the thyroid and the whole body.

Reasons Behind Iodine Deficiency Radiation: Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation emitted by cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwave ovens and other electronic devices.

Iodized table salt: The human body cannot utilize the iodine added to this product.

Low-sodium diets: Failure to use healthy salts to fulfill sodium requirements, plus over-

use of zero-nutrient table salt in foods, leads to iodine depletion.

Bromine: This toxic chemical overrides iodine’s abilities to nourish the thyroid, adrenal and other hormone-producing glands.

A known carcinogen, it is used as an anticaking ingredient found in almost all baked goods, unless the ingredients specifically cite unbromated flour.

Iodine-depleted soils: Due to poor farming techniques, iodine and other minerals in soil have declined, so most foods today are devoid of naturally occurring iodine.

Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and other endocrine glands and restoring proper hormone production.

A Few Drops Can Change Your Life!

You could feel better, lose weight or increase energy and mental clarity with a few drops of Natural Awakenings DETOXIFIED IODINE daily in water or on your skin when used as directed.

An essential component of the thyroid, iodine replacement has been reported to give relief from: • Depression • Fibromyalgia • Hypothyroidism • Radiation

• Weight Gain • Low Energy • Hyperthyroidism • Bacteria & Viruses

4-6 week supply ONLY $19.99

Order Online Today at

NAWebstore.com Or Call: 888-822-0246

FREE trial size of Dr Emu’s STOPS PAIN PLUS included with each order of Detoxified Iodine to share with a friend or family member. Also buy new Natural Awakenings DermaClear and get two trial sizes, a $13 value.

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

This Season, Shop Natural Awakenings’ Online Webstore for More Special, Green and Natural Products

*to receive 10% off Detoxified Iodine, use coupon code SAVE10 - offer ends 12/31/2013

Stress less, celebrate more.

For all your holiday needs...

Fair-trade jewelry for Mom • Books for Dad • Natural dog treats for Fido Eco-friendly goods for kids • Gift certificates for friends Free-range turkey for Christmas dinner • Organic wine for gatherings Virginia’s Health Foods • 3952 Airport Blvd in Mobile • 251-345-0494 Fairhope Health Foods • 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Ctr in Fairhope • 251-928-0644

20% Off Irwin Naturals, Nature’s

DECEMBER SPECIALS: Secret and Natural Vitality Products!

Garden of Life supplements are 20% off everyday!

15% off all regularly priced supplements every Sunday!

The Sunflower Cafés offer full organic lunch menus. Featuring freerange meats, farm-fresh produce, organic wines and options for special dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free).

Catering and take-out available. Menus online. Call for specials.

The Fairhope location has new menu items!

Holiday Catering is back!

All dishes are made to Green Bean Casserole order and can be prepared Sweet Potato Casserole vegan and gluten-free.

Corn Casserole Place Christmas orders by December 20.

Creamed Cauliflower

Eggplant Casserole Squash Casserole Cranberry Chutney Stuffing

Gravy Pies & Cheesecakes Carrot Cakes Chocolate Gateau

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

Fairhope: 251-929-0055

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

36

Mobile: 251-345-0495

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

Visit VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com and Natural Awakenings Network Cardholders Mobile / Baldwin Edition www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com receive 10% off of all store & cafe purchases! follow us on Facebook for Monthly Specials!