July 2016 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

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Female Farmers

Growing Numbers Emphasize Eco-Values

Just Chill Out

Downtime Reinvigorates Mind, Body and Spirit

Real News that Matters Independent Media Tell Us the Truth

Locavore

LINGO What All the Food Labels Really Mean

July 2016 | Gulf Coast AL/MS Edition | HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

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natural awakenings July 2016

3

letterfrompublisher This month, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in one of my favorite topics—food. I wrote about Sunflower Café’s mouthwatering organic dining experience, interviewed local female farmers that are growing pesticide-free produce for our community, learned about homemade baby food classes in Gulfport and so much more.

About halfway through the production of this issue, my mood was suddenly dampened by the news of the Orlando shootings. As I worked through my own emotions of sadness, confusion and a sense of helplessness, I found myself weeding through media reports. It was a perfect demonstration of this month’s article Real News That Matters, where Linda Sechrist emphasizes the value of independent media outlets that resist the sensational in favor of the meaningful. While some journalists quickly started exploring the tragedy’s influence on the presidential race and other hot button political issues, I sought out reports of mile-long lines at Orlando blood banks and a candlelight vigil organized by locals in Downtown Mobile.

In my search for a silver lining, I was reminded of my grandmother’s experience during World War II—one that exemplifies faith and hope during difficult times. In 1943, she graduated as the valedictorian of Amache Senior High School, in Colorado. Amache was an internment camp for Japanese Americans that were forced to relocate from their Pacific Coast homes following the attack on Pearl Harbor. A few months ago, at 91 years old, my grandmother returned to Amache for the first time since she was a teenager.

Before the relocation, Grandma believed without hesitation that “America means freedom, equality, security and justice.” As an incarcerated citizen living in adverse conditions, she questioned the moral fabric of her country in her high school commencement speech. She tried to recall all that was taught to her in school, referencing events that marked the country as a symbol of hope, freedom and democracy.

Despite being relocated from her home because of her ethnicity, my grandmother concluded that she did still have faith in America, “faith in the American sportsmanship and attitude of fair play that will judge citizenship and patriotism on the basis of actions and achievement and not on the basis of physical characteristics.” She asked the graduating class if they could still believe that America meant freedom, equality, security and justice.

In closing, she gracefully answered, “Yes, with all our hearts, because in that faith, in that hope, is my future, our future and the world’s future.”

I continue to see hope in our future through individuals that are impacting our community and beyond. Whether they’re creating wholesome dining options for allergensensitive patrons, nurturing plant-based food for the health of our community, or pulling the brightest moments of hope out of cultural despair, the actions of these forward-looking individuals are drowning out those who promote fear and insecurity.

As we celebrate America’s 240th birthday this month, may we celebrate with food, friends and fun, but may we also not take for granted signs of progress, hope and our connection to each other. Written when she was only 17 years old, my grandmother’s speech inspires me to live in gratitude for the present moment, while maintaining optimism for a promising future.

Grandma Collectively, our faith in the human spirit will (Marion drive the positivity that lies ahead.

Konishi Takehara) With gratitude, in 1943 and 2015 4

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

contact us Publisher/Editor Meredith Montgomery Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com Marketing Manager Marcia Manuel Distribution Manager Stephanie Klumpp Editing Team Michelle Bense, Anne Wilson, Michael Wilson, Gabrielle Wyant-Perillo, Josh Montgomery Design and Production Meredith Montgomery Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi 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. © 2016 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.

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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.

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contents 6 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 11 globalbriefs 14 ecotip 8 15 community

spotlight 16 consciouseating 20 greenliving 22 healthykids 24 wisewords 11 28 healingways 30 fitbody 32 naturalpet 34 calendar 39 classifieds 40 naturaldirectory

14 advertising & submissions

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

16 LOCAVORE LINGO

What All the Food Labels Really Mean

by Judith Fertig

20 SOIL SISTERS

Female Farmers Come of Age

by Lisa Kivirist

22 MOM’S KITCHEN

COUNTER COOKING SCHOOL

Kids That Learn to Cook Grow Up Eating Healthier

by Jen Haugen

24 LIZA HUBER ON

HEALTHY MEALS AND HAPPY KIDS

Start with Homemade, Organic Baby Food

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.

by Gerry Strauss

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.

by Linda Sechrist

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.

Chilling Out Revives Body and Soul

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.

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26 REAL NEWS

26 28

THAT MATTERS

Independent Media Tell Us the Truth

28 MAKE TIME

FOR DOWNTIME

by April Thompson

30 ZEN GOLF

32

Master the Mind to Master the Game

by Aimee Hughes

32 COOL CHOW

Icy Treats for Hot Summer Days

by Sandra Murphy

natural awakenings July 2016

5

newsbriefs Fascia BodyWork Workshop in Mobile A Fascia BodyWork workshop for massage therapists will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., July 23 and 24, at Alabama Healing Arts, in Mobile.

Taught by Marsha Mathes, a licensed massage therapist and National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork approved provider and instructor, this class helps therapists work smart, not hard.

Fascia BodyWork is a deep tissue massage that is fascia specific, not muscle specific. Fascia is the soft tissue component of the connective tissue that permeates the human body. It interpenetrates and Marsha Mathes, LMT surrounds muscles, bones, organs, nerves, blood vessels and other structures, and is an uninterrupted, three-dimensional web of tissue throughout the whole body. It is responsible for maintaining structural integrity, providing support and protection and acts as a shock absorber.

There is no digit work in Fascia BodyWork and it is performed with flat, smooth surfaces such as the back of the fist, flat of the palm and back of the forearm. This modality creates a drag on the tissue instead of a gliding stroke, which assists the fascia to become more fluid, allowing muscles better function, flexibility and range of motion.

Cost: $325 before July 10. Provides 16 continuing education credits for massage therapists. Location: 6304 Cottage Hill Rd., Mobile, AL. To register, or for more information, call 256-698-2151, email Mathes79@knology.net or visit MarshaMathes.

SkinCareTherapy.net.

Aromatherapy Adds to Elements Experience Elements Massage, in Mobile, now offers aromatherapy services to enhance the massage experience.

One of four fragrant essential oils can be added to any massage session to relax, soothe or enliven.

“We have lavender, vitality, radiance and eucalyptus scents available, and our experienced therapists can explain how the different oils can benefit you. Relax, breathe and enjoy,” says owner Claudia McClure.

Elements is open seven days a week. Same-day appointments are available, walk-ins are welcome and appointments can be made online. Members of Elements’ wellness program enjoy benefits such as a monthly massage and discounted rates.

Location: 6920 Airport Blvd., Ste. 111, Mobile, AL. For more information, call 251342-6415 or visit ElementsMassage.com/Mobile. See ad, page 29.

New Things to Come for Windmill Market Dennis and Rachel Nicholson are bringing new energy to Windmill Market. “We are most excited about the opportunity to promote and support people who are excellent in the fields of fresh local foods, great entertainment and local art, while emphasizing family, community and a sustainable lifestyle,” says Dennis, who’s vision includes fresh juices and blended drinks, plus locally sourced super food snacks and a super food bar.

Starting with their family at Papa’s Pizza in Fairhope 23 years ago, the couple has since owned and operated nine local restaurants. During that same time, more than 60 family members have been born or migrated here, opening 29 restaurants in the area, including Papa’s Place, Pinzone’s, Vitollis, Pintoli’s and Janino’s.

The enthusiastic couple says, “We are looking forward to turning our passion to Fairhope’s most loved spot, the Windmill Market.”

Location: 85 N. Bancroft St., Fairhope, AL. For more information, call 251-990-8883.

NEWS TO SHARE?

Send submissions to Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com or call 251-990-9552 before the 10th. For submission guidelines, visit www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

6

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

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Soul Shine Yoga & Kudzu Aerial Fitness Align Soul Shine Yoga and Kudzu Aerial Fitness are collaborating to offer their clients a seamless experience on the mat and in the air. Working together, the two studios offer a variety of classes that can’t be found anywhere else along the Alabama Gulf Coast.

In addition to more than 50 classes each week, the two studios will offer an increasing number of workshops for continued personal and professional development, as well as multiple meditation opportunities. Classes and workshops for both studios can now be booked at TheSoulShineLife.com and class packages can be used at either studio.

Soul Shine owner Emily Sommerville says, “Over the past eight months, I’ve gotten to know Megrez Mosher and the vision that she has for Emily Sommerville Kudzu Aerial. We share common interests, comand Megrez Mosher mon values and complementary talents. These are the key components of positive synergy and as we move forward, Soul Shine Yoga and Kudzu Aerial will support each other in building one expanding, cohesive community.”

For more information or to register for classes, visit TheSoulShineLife.com or KudzuAerial.com. See ads, page 3 and 31.

kudos

On Earth Day, Mobile Baykeeper launched the Reduce The Use Campaign to challenge local restaurants, bars, businesses and individuals to cut back on single-use plastic straws, plastic bottles and plastic bags. Participants are promoting their involvement on social media by using the hashtags #HoldTheStraw, #BYOBottle and #BYOBag.

So far, Serda’s Coffee Company, The Noble South, Red or White Wine & Gourmet Center, Buck’s Pizza, Café 219, Mediterranean Sandwich Company and Panini Pete’s have committed to the campaign.

For more information, email JBullock@MobileBaykeeper.org or visit MobileBayKeeper.org.

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natural awakenings July 2016

7

healthbriefs

Calcium Pills Don’t Build Bone Health

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esearchers reporting in the British medical journal The Lancet, analyzed 44 studies on calcium supplementation or dietary calcium and bone fractures and concluded, “Dietary calcium intake is not associated with risk of fracture and there is no current evidence that increasing dietary calcium intake prevents fractures.” Qualifying studies included more than 44,000 people.

A different meta-study from New Zealand’s University of Auckland, also published in The Lancet, reviewed 59 clinical and observational studies of calcium and bone density. The meta-analysis compared the effect of calcium doses of 500, 800 and 1,000 milligrams per day and found that bone density improvements ranged between 0.6 and 1.8 percent throughout the body during the first year of supplementation, but did not increase over time.

They concluded that the improvements in bone mineral density from calcium supplements were small and that results mirrored the increases seen from dietary sources, suggesting that neither method significantly improves bone health.

Energy Drinks Harm the Heart

I

n addition to alertness, energy drinks may also trigger abnormal heart rhythms and increased blood pressure. Researchers from the School of Pharmacy at the University of the Pacific, in Stockton, California, tested 27 healthy adults. The volunteers were split into three groups—one drank two cans of an energy drink per day, another consumed the same amount of a drink with Panax ginseng and the third a similar-tasting placebo beverage.

The subjects were given cardiovascular testing before and after the trial. After three weeks, the group imbibing the energy drinks had a significant increase in abnormal heart rhythms and higher blood pressure. The ginseng and placebo groups saw no change in their heart conditions.

Sachin A. Shah, a doctor of pharmacy and professor at Pacific’s School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, says, “Our findings suggest that certain energy drinks may increase the risk of having an abnormal heart rhythm when consumed in high volumes. While we wait for more data, some consumers should exercise caution and not blindly follow the buzz.”

The Center for Science in Public Interest, a consumer health advocacy group, has reported that as of June 2014, 34 deaths have been associated with energy drinks.

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Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

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Colorful Produce Slows Cell Aging

A

new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition finds that an increased intake of carotenoids, powerful antioxidants found in plantbased foods, is associated with slower aging. The research tested 3,660 U.S. adults and measured blood levels of five common carotenoids: alphacarotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, combined lutein/zeaxanthin and trans-lycopene.

The researchers found that those with levels that were in the highest quarter had 5 percent to 8 percent longer telomeres compared to those with the lowest quartile of carotenoid levels.

Telomeres are located at the ends of DNA chromosomes and get shorter as we age. Longer telomeres indicate greater longevity.

Carotenoids are found in the yellow-to-red pigments in many yellow, red and orange foods. They are also contained in green foods where chlorophyll shields the yellow-red color. Alpha-carotenes are present in carrots, cantaloupes, mangoes, kale, spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Beta-carotene is found in some of the same foods, and also tomatoes, apricots and watermelons.

Beta-cryptoxanthin is found in papayas, apples and orange peels. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in some of the same foods, along with kiwifruit, grapes, oranges, zucchini and squash.

Some of the highest levels are in corn.

Lycopene is in tomatoes, watermelons, papayas, apricots and other redto-yellow foods.

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Neurotoxins Identified in Everyday Items

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esearch published in the British medical journal The Lancet has newly identified six neurotoxins: manganese, fluoride, chlorpyrifos, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene or PERC) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).

Manganese exposure is found in welding and high-octane gas fumes, among other sources; fluoride is used in many municipal water supplies, glass etching and chrome cleaners. Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate contained in many pesticides, including Dursban and Lorsban. While DDT has been banned from insecticides within the U.S., it is still contained in other agents, including petroleum distillates. DDT is also still used in some areas to spray for mosquitoes. PERC has often been used in dry cleaning and for degreasing metals. PBDEs appear as flame retardants and to make electronics, household goods, building materials, polyurethane foams, plastics and more.

The same researchers previously identified lead, methylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls, arsenic and toluene as neurotoxins. The neurotoxin label means they affect the nervous system and can cause neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, attention deficit disorders, dyslexia and others.

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AUG

ADHD Meds Weaken Kids’ Bones

A

new study announced at the 2016 annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons shows that drugs prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can weaken bones in children during a time of critical growth. This study tested 5,315 kids between 8 and 17 years old and compared the results to a subgroup of 1,967. Each child was given a bone mineral density scan on the femur, femoral neck and lumbar spine.

The children taking ADHD medications of Ritalin, Focalin, Dexedrine, Strattera and Vyvanese had lower bone mineral density in the femur, femoral neck and lumbar spine. At least 25 percent of the youngsters taking these medications were categorized as having osteopenia.

According to a 2014 Express Scripts study, prescriptions of ADHD medications to children in the U.S. grew by 36 percent between 2008 and 2012.

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Osteopathy Alleviates Low Back Pain

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Advertise your products and services in Natural Awakenings’

Empowering Youth and Creativity Issue

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ore than 600,000 people undergo surgery for back pain every year, yet back surgery is often unsuccessful. Safer manual therapies provide a viable alternative, according to recent research.

A study of 455 people with low back pain found that osteopathic manipulation therapy (OMT) helped with their symptoms. The research, published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, gave each patient six osteopathic manual therapy sessions or a placebo treatment over a two-month period. Patients were tested before and a month afterward to assess the success of the treatments, using pain severity and mobility as the main criteria.

The research showed that those that started with higher disability scores of 17 or more prior to therapy had significantly less pain and more mobility. Patients with scores of seven or greater also improved, but not to the same degree.

Lead researcher and Osteopath Dr. John Licciardone says, “Subgrouping patients according to chronic low back pain intensity and function appears to be a simple strategy for identifying patients that can attain substantial improvement with OMT. From a cost and safety perspective, it should be considered before progressing to more costly or invasive interventions.”

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

Moth Misery

Bright Lights Drive Them to Extinction National Moth Week, held from July 23 to 31 (visit NationalMothWeek.org for podcast), has prompted the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to encourage cities to install motion-sensitive dimming streetlights and is working to designate dark-sky parks that could provide a refuge for nocturnal species. The giant silk moth and other insects pollinate 80 percent of our food crops. In turn, their bodies sustain innumerable birds, rodents and bats. Entire ecosystems rest on their delicate, powdery wings.

Only two species of moths are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and three others have gone extinct in the past decade. Many populations are seeing declines of up to 99 percent. Between monoculture crops, pesticides, changing climate, urbanization and decreasing darkness due to artificial lighting, the future of night-flying moths is uncertain.

Their only goal is to reproduce, guided to suitable nesting grounds by the shadow of the moon; many moth species do not even have mouths. However, cities now glow brighter than a full moon, and ambient light pollution radiating from urban areas draws moths to their deaths. IDA Program Manager John Barentine says, “Every time a person turns off and shields a porch light on their house, they’re helping.”

Source: Sierra Club

GMO-Free Pioneer

New Grain Transport to be Contaminant-Free Large food companies that are switching to non-GMO (genetically modified) soy and corn products must still worry about their ingredients picking up GMO contamination through conventional supply chains.

Now, Captain Drake LLC, a North Dakota grain plant, has acquired its own million-bushel terminal with dedicated rail cars used exclusively for GMOfree grains. President Mark Anderson maintains, “We’ll be able to obtain the best non-GMO commodities from three regions: North Dakota, Minnesota and Manitoba, Canada.”

In a 2015 Nielsen study of 30,000 consumers, 43 percent rank non-GMO as very important and 80 percent said they would pay more for foods that indicate a degree of healthfulness. Sales of non-GMO products exceeded $10 billion last year and are growing.

Anderson explains, “The supply chain needs to be tightened up and moved domestically. We consider this to be another strategic asset for food and beverage clients seeking suppliers committed to guaranteeing the integrity and purity of non-GMO commodities.”

Farm-to-Work

Fresh Veggies Come Direct to Offices Pioneering employers are now offering fresh vegetables to help employees improve their diet—and their health. Tech companies are even hiring professional chefs to prepare healthful lunches and snacks. In Texas, the Farm to Work program is making it easy and affordable for workers to pick up baskets of local produce at the office.

Participants aren’t required to pay an initial lump sum or commit to buying every week. Instead, they can sign up to receive produce in any given week. Other groups around the country are also looking into workplace produce delivery programs, and while many use the traditional community supported agriculture (CSA) model, others are experimenting with different procedures.

The Farm Fresh Program, in Bellingham, Washington, connects local farmers to employers interested in receiving weekly deliveries. Meanwhile, Farm2Work, in Arkansas, links local purveyors of produce, meat, eggs, dairy, pies, jams and jellies to area employers. New York’s Adirondack Harvest, a branch of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, started by helping a single farmer link to area employers.

The next step, says Teresa Whalen, the group’s southern chapter representative, is working to persuade insurance companies to subsidize workplace CSAs in the same way they’re starting to subsidize gym memberships.

Source: FarmToWork.org

Source: Tinyurl.com/NonGMOGrainTerminal natural awakenings July 2016

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globalbriefs

Buzz Benefactors

Recycling Nutrients

More Retailers Ban Bee-Toxic Products

A paper published in Forest Ecosystems concludes that frugivores, large, fruit-eating animals like toucans, tapirs, curassows and spider monkeys, help to keep the woods healthy by eating fruits and spreading seeds. As traps for carbon and an effective defense against global warming, forests collectively absorb up to 30 percent of the world’s CO2 emissions and store more than 1,600 gigatons of carbon in the soil.

“You have a lot of large birds that play a fundamental role for large trees,” says study author Mauro Galetti. “They increase the likelihood that seeds will turn into actual photosynthesizing plants.”

However, big, tropical birds are constantly under threat of hunting, poaching and habitat loss; the International Union of Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources’ Red List notes that 14 of the world’s 16 toucan species, for instance, are decreasing in population. The study found that without the help of high-capacity frugivores, there would be no way for larger seeds to grow into the towering trees that store carbon best.

Scientists now want to research individual species to calculate how much each animal’s services are worth in terms of battling climate change. Putting a dollar amount on a species, say Galetti, could be the only way to persuade governments to protect it.

Amidst the growing pollinator crisis and due to public pressure, Aldi Süd, the German supermarket chain with stores in the U.S., has become the first major European retailer to ban pesticides toxic to bees, including the neonicotinoids imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam, from fruits and vegetables produced for their stores. Starting in January, Aldi produce suppliers have had to ensure their cultivation practices exclude eight pesticides identified as toxic to bees. Other retailers in the U.S. and Europe are also beginning to shun bee-toxic pesticides.

Home Depot will no longer use the class of pesticides known as neonics on 80 percent of its flowering plants; completing the phase-out in 2018. Lowe’s is ending the sale of products containing neonicotinoid pesticides within 48 months. Smaller retailers are also working on removing neonics and other toxic pesticides from their shelves.

The science has become increasingly clear that pesticides, working individually or synergistically, play a critical role in the ongoing decline of honeybees and other pollinators. Bees in the U.S. and Europe have seen unprecedented losses over the last decade, and bee-toxic pesticides like neonicotinoids have consistently been implicated as a major contributing factor.

Animal Droppings Help Forests Absorb CO2

Find the study at Tinyurl.com/ForestCarbonReport.

Low-Cost Largesse

Nonprofit Grocery Sells Good Food at Low Prices The biggest challenge to healthy eating in poor neighborhoods isn’t always access to healthy food; it’s whether people can afford to buy it. A year ago, Doug Rauch, former president of Trader Joe’s, opened Daily Table, a nonprofit grocery in Boston, to take action. It gathers nutritious food that would otherwise be wasted and then sells it at low prices. After learning about food insecurity in the U.S. and that approximately 40 percent of the food we grow is thrown out, Rauch decided to address both problems by offering this new option for people that don’t want handouts.

The store now has 5,000 members and hundreds of daily customers, with plans to expand to new locations. “The challenge we have in America is that the food system is designed from the farm on up to create calories that are cheap and nutrients that are expensive,” he says. “People on the lowest economic rung get squeezed the hardest.”

Rauch partners with vendors to get excess food, such as fruit just slightly too ripe to make it through the standard supermarket system, that chefs turn into ready-to-eat meals like prepared salads and soups, or entrées that can cost less than $2.

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Source: BeyondPesticides.org

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Fish Fried

New Numbers Confirm Global Overfishing The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has been collecting reports for decades on how many fish are caught in the oceans annually. However, those numbers don’t take into account smallscale, recreational and illegal fishing or the bycatch that’s discarded before boats return to harbors. A study published in Nature Communications increases the actual total world catch from 1950 to 2010 by 50 percent.

Daniel Pauly, author of the University of British Columbia study, states, “The world is withdrawing from a joint bank account of fish without knowing what has been withdrawn or the remaining balance. Better estimates for the amount we’re taking out can help ensure there’s enough fish to sustain us in the future.” Based on official counts, global catches peaked in 1996 and have declined modestly each year. The decline isn’t due to less fishing or restrictions on certain fish, though. “It’s due to the countries fishing too much and having exhausted one fish after the other,” says Pauly.

The findings also emphasize the value of fisheries to low-income people in developing countries. The next steps will require well-informed action to preserve this critical resource for people and for the planet.

Source: Tinyurl.com/OverfishingReport

Toxic Teflon

Scientists Increasingly Find It Dangerous According to a new meta-analysis of previous studies, Philippe Grandjean, of Harvard, and Richard Clapp, of the University of Massachusetts, concluded that DuPont Teflon, used for 50 years to make frictionless cookware, is much more dangerous than previously thought, causing cancer, birth defects and heart disease, and weakening the immune system.

Even though Teflon’s harmful perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is no longer produced or used, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found it in the blood of more than 99 percent of Americans studied, because it can be passed from mother to unborn child in the womb. The researchers say that the federal government’s recommended “safe” level, set in 2009, is as much as 1,000 times too high to fully protect people’s health. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has yet to set a legal allowable limit for its presence in drinking water.

Source: EnvironmentalHealthNews.org

If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.

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Safely Keep Winged Visitors Away from Outdoor Events Warding off summertime mosquitoes and flies to maintain outdoor fun is especially important given the new disease potential of the mosquito-borne Zika and West Nile viruses. Here are some naturally protective measures.

Remove stale, standing water outside the home—including swimming pool covers, clogged rain gutters and buckets—and turn over clay pots and plastic containers, as they all can be prime mosquito-breeding spots, suggests the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Alternatively, a toxin-free backyard pond or water garden can be stocked with mosquito fish like gambusia that feed on and consume large quantities of insect larvae.

Avoid applying potent perfumes, soaps and lotions prior to an outdoor event, because such scents attract insects.

It always helps to wear light, long-sleeve shirts and pants to protect more skin.

Grow plants with odors mosquitoes don’t like. EarthEasy.com suggests citronella, horsemint (aka bee balm), marigolds, ageratum (floss flowers) and catnip. WellnessMama.com also likes lavender, thyme, lemongrass, anything in the mint family and even basil; rub fresh or dried leaves on the skin or apply lavender flowers or oil, especially on hot spots (neck, underarms or behind ears).

Use a non-toxic, plastic-free insect-repelling band for kids.

Avoid conventional insect repellents, as many contain diethyltoluamide (DEET), one of the top five contaminants of U.S. waterways.

Chemicals rinse off into shower and bath drains during later wash-ups.

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Sustainable Ways to Enjoy Sand and Surf When eco-conscious families hit the beach this summer, there’s more to be aware of than just picking up trash like drink containers, wrappers and found litter. Here are some other ways we can enhance our beach and water experiences while upping fitness benefits.

Rising water levels and severe weather events have damaged coastlines, so extra care is needed.

When setting up a beach spot, stay away from sand dunes and pockets of beach grass that serve as natural defenses against beach erosion. Also watch out for marked-off turtle hatching spots; prime nesting season is May through October, according to the nonprofit Turtle Conservancy. Teach kids not to chase birds. Walk around shorebirds to cause minimal disturbance; it’s stressful dodging danger during meals and wastes precious energy stores.

Walking on soft sand is like a weight-training workout, as detailed in Michael Sandler and Jessica Lee’s Barefoot Walking book.

Polluting chemicals enter waterways via fertilizer and industry runoff and accidents like the BP Gulf oil spill; don’t contribute more by using sunscreen that contains oxybenzine, which reportedly alters hormone function. The Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) maintains an online guide of safe sunscreens. The Huffington Post also suggests that we can make our own by mixing zinc oxide (a sunblocking agent), coconut oil (soothes and conditions skin), beeswax (for waterproofing) and tea tree oil (soothes and repairs skin and smells good).

The same care applies to chemical hair dyes, shampoos, conditioners and straighteners. Patronize clean, green salons that use natural hair treatments free of synthetic chemicals, ammonia or para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Or search “nontoxic hair care” online.

Plan a visit to coincide with a public volunteer beach cleanup event. Check with national organizations like Keep America Beautiful (kab.org) and local or countywide groups, as well as social media sites for group activities.

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restaurantspotlight

Eating Out, Organically Sunflower Café’s Healthy and Delicious Dining Experience

by Meredith Montgomery

I

n 2003, Fairhope Health Foods owner Lynnora Ash opened the Sunflower Café next to her store as a healthy alternative to the local restaurant scene.

“I didn’t want iceberg lettuce; I wanted green salads. I didn’t want preservatives and additives; I wanted living, enzymerich foods. And I wanted people to know that you don’t have to adulterate food to make it taste good.”

The use of fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch approach is what attracted Executive Chef Troy Kline to the organic café 12 years ago. “Where I had worked previously, the food was premade and simply reheated. Here, I get to actually cook and experiment, using local produce whenever possible,” he says.

With a second location inside of Virginia’s Health Foods, in Mobile, the cafés’ six-page menu fuses ethnic and local flavors to offer a wide variety of salads,

sandwiches, stir frys and pastas. Because everything is made-to-order, the staff is eager to cater to special dietary needs such as dairy-free, gluten-free and plant-based restrictions. The sesame ginger stir fry is the most popular menu item, but their desserts are a big favorite as well—especially the vegan and gluten-free options.

Kline says, “Many of our guests don’t go out to eat often because of certain restrictions to their diet, but they come here and get flavorful food that they can’t get anywhere else. Seeing their smiling faces is the most rewarding part of my job.”

While vegetarians and vegans feel at home at Sunflower, the menu is not meatfree. Ash explains, “Although I’ve been a vegetarian for many years, I want our customers to be educated about what kinds of meats are safe and healthy. That’s why we provide the best possible free-range meat and poultry in the cafés and stores.”

Both cafés are open for lunch seven days a week with kid-friendly options too. The Fairhope location also serves a brunch menu on Sundays and stays open for dinner on Thursdays and Fridays, offering three special entrees in addition to their regular menu items.

The eco-friendly restaurants use compostable paper products for takeout orders and are active in the community, participating in events such as Earth Day Mobile Bay and monthly Green Drinks meetings. Several times a year they host special in-house events, including wine and beer tastings.

Kline is an advocate for healthy eating habits beyond the café, encouraging everyone to avoid processed foods. He suggests, “Choose to make yourself a sandwich instead of relying on frozen dinners. We should be cooking with pots and pans, not microwaves.”

In addition to their passion for wholesome cuisine, the staff is committed to providing accommodating service in a relaxed atmosphere. Many of them have been working there for years and Kline says, “We consider ourselves a family, and our guests are a part of that family as well.”

Locations: 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL (251-929-0055); 3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL (251479-3200). For more information, visit Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com. See ad, back cover. clockwise: pita trio starter; salmon dinner special; Mandarin salad; crab cakes

photos by Nikki Scozzafava

natural awakenings July 2016

15

consciouseating

Locavore Lingo What All the Food Labels Really Mean

by Judith Fertig

Certified Humane When we buy local cheese, poultry or meat at the farmers’ market, we sometimes see a certified humane notice. One such producer is Baetje Farms, outside St. Louis, Missouri. Their highly regarded goat cheeses offer traceability via a lot number, so buyers can know exactly which milking the cheese came from.

In factory farming, which often involves penning or caging animals that never go outdoors, “certified humane” means that this producer meets Humane Farm Animal Care standards: n Fed a nutritious diet without antibiotics or hormones. n Provided proper shelter with resting areas and sufficient space. n Animals have the ability to behave naturally.

Veronica Baetje says her farm’s goats receive organic mineral supplements and locally grown alfalfa hay in addition to pasture grass every day. She adds, “They are free to choose what they prefer to do, whether skip and run up a hill, lie under the shade of a tree, soak up some sunshine or play with their herd mates.”

L

ocally grown foods are more likely to have been bred for flavor and nutrition than durability and a long shelf life, says Emily Akins, outreach director for the Kansas City Food Circle, a cooperative that links residents with farmers that grow and raise organic and free-range food. An added benefit is getting to know the farmer and being able to ask the questions—and receive the answers—that are important to us.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that local food sales totaled $12 billion in 2014, up from $5 billion in 2008. They continue to grow.

Organic or Certified Organic Consumers want to know the difference between organics and certified organics.

Today’s number of U.S. certified organic operations has jumped nearly 300 percent since 2002 to more than 21,700.

Although a certified organic designation might be the preferred index of how 16

foods are grown and raised, it is not always possible for certain foods in some climates.

Sometimes there’s a tradeoff in buying organic foods in the carbon footprint of its transport to market.

According to the Sweetwater Organic Community Farm, in Tampa, Florida, “Organic refers to a specific method of growing and processing foods, and is defined as produce grown, packaged and stored without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides or irradiation.”

To be considered certified organic under the Code of Federal Regulations 7 CFR Part 205, products must meet these standards: n No harmful chemicals have been applied to the land for at least three years. n Farmers and processors are inspected annually by a certifying agency. n Farmers and processors must keep detailed records of practices. n Farmers are required to maintain a written organic management plan.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

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Wild Food At times, farmers’ markets will offer foraged foods from the wild or wild game.

Sources are listed online at EatWild. com. “Few of us will go back to foraging in the wild, but we can learn to forage in our supermarkets, farmers’ markets and from local farmers to select the most nutritious and delicious foods available,” says founder Jo Robinson, in Vashon, Washington.

For example, Dave and Sue Whittlesey, at High Wire Ranch, in Hotchkiss, Colorado, raise bison (buffalo) and elk that they sell both through local stores and at the Aspen Saturday Market. The wild game is 100 percent pasture-fed, non-GMO (no genetically modified feed), gluten-free and not given hormones or any antibiotics unless the animal is sick.

Trusted Sources The land, climate and growing season dictate the best natural farming practices for each area, often described along with

their products on farm and farmers’ market websites.

Wisconsin’s Dane County Farmers’ Market, in Madison, provides detailed descriptions of farm products and agricultural practices so customers can make informed choices. Sometimes, the type of farm makes a difference.

“We are intentionally human scale,” says Virginia Goeke, of Sylvan Meadows Farm, in Viroqua, Wisconsin.

“We choose to husband our land to promote harmony and synergy. We are creating a sustainable farm ecosystem where herbal meadows, prairies, heirloom gardens, orchards, woodlands, and rare breeds of livestock and wildlife flourish.”

Sometimes, we’d just like someone else to do the food curating for us. The Kansas City Food Circle requires member farmers to take a pledge to follow certain

agricultural practices. “When you buy food from our members, you can rely on the co-op’s pledge that it’s been certified naturally grown or that the farmer has USDA Organic certification,” says Akins.

Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative, the joint effort of 100 small-scale family farms providing fresh, organic, seasonal produce, in Leola, Pennsylvania, gives similar assurances.

The USDA reports that 160,000 farmers nationwide are currently selling to their local markets via farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture organizations, restaurants, groceries and institutions, generating health, social, economic and environmental benefits for local communities. It keeps growing because we keep asking questions.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

Healthy Foods Lexicon Heritage breeds—Ancestral breeds of poultry and livestock that often take longer to reach market weight, but have more flavor.

Know your farmer, know your food.

Proudly partnering with local farms to provide the Gulf Coast with food that is grown using organic practices.

Pesticide-free, hydroponically grown lettuce and leaf

Pesticide-free seasonal produce and natural bath & body products

Local—Grown or raised within a three-hour driving radius of the consumer’s purchase site.

Foraged—Native foods gathered from the wild, rather than cultivated. Examples: wild mushrooms, fiddlehead ferns, mulberries, native pecans, black walnuts and native persimmons.

Free range—Poultry raised outdoors where they are free to range over natural vegetation.

Grass-fed—Beef or milk cows fed on grass. The benefit is leaner, betterflavored meat and more omega-3s, plus fuller flavors in milk, butter and other dairy products.

Heirloom—Older, non-hybrid varieties of produce, including fruit trees, herbs and vegetables.

Pastured—Livestock raised on pastures instead of factory farms.

Traceability—Precise tracking by a farmer that informs the consumer of which chicken hatched a specific clutch of eggs, which farm grew a cantaloupe and which mill boiled down and bottled the sorghum syrup.

Wild-caught—Fish that live and are caught in open lakes, streams or oceans.

For more current agricultural, market and trade terms, visit LexiconOfSustainability.com.

Fernandez Farm Grass-fed Wagyu beef raised using organic practices

Viperville

Vegetable Farm

Pesticide-free seasonal produce.

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Grass-fed cattle and lamb raised using organic practices Humanely and sustainably raised poultry & pork.

Do you want to know your food?

Contact us: 251-284-3430 endoftheroadfarm.al@gmail.com natural awakenings July 2016

17

photo by Deb Durant

Animal Welfare Lexicon

by Tracey Narayani Glover

D

eciphering the significance of food labels can be daunting, particularly when seeking to understand what they mean for animal welfare. U.S. food labeling laws are notoriously weak, resulting in vague and sometimes misleading marketing claims. Legally, there is no definition of humane, which means that industry organizations are left to define this and other terms themselves. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) simply verifies that these companies comply with their own self-defined standards.

Certified organic animals and freerange birds must be allowed outdoor access, yet these standards do not define the amount, duration or quality of access required. For example, the Certified Organic label doesn’t set any space requirements for animals housed indoors, nor prohibit the use of farrowing crates or gestation stalls which can be so small that the confined animals can’t turn around or roll over.

The Cage-Free label indicates that eggs came from hens that were never confined to a cage and have had unlimited access to food, water and the freedom to roam. The reality is that most cage-free

18

hens spend their entire lives in a shed where, due to overcrowding, they have barely more space than caged birds. Also, under all labels, it’s standard industry practice to kill the male chicks born to the egg industry. The Cage-Free label is particularly misleading when placed on anything other than egg cartons, because chickens raised for meat are never caged.

Under most of the common labels, including Certified Organic, Cage-Free and Free-Range, physical mutilations such as horn removal, tail docking, debeaking and castration are permitted, and in most cases, providing pain relief is not required during these procedures.

Animals form strong bonds with their young. In sanctuaries, pigs spend their lives with their piglets, mother cows form immediate and lifelong bonds with their calves, and chickens protect and communicate with their chicks. The routine practice of separating mothers from their young is standard under all labels.

Whether an animal is raised for meat or for other products such as dairy or eggs, most agricultural animals will eventually be slaughtered at a fraction of their natural lifespan. Animals such as

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dairy cows and egg-laying hens are killed when their production declines. Veal (the meat of a baby cow) is considered to be a byproduct of the dairy industry, and the USDA estimates that 2,000 calves are slaughtered each day in the U.S.

Be wary of the unregulated Humanely Raised label and the American Humane Certified label, which offer little improvement over the standard factory farming practices that many consumers abhor.

The Certified Humane label, a program of Humane Farm Animal Care, is more stringent about living conditions, requiring that all animals have space that allows for exercise and freedom of movement, prohibiting crates, cages and tethers. It also has some limitations on physical mutilations, prohibiting debeaking and requiring pain relief for some other procedures at older ages.

Under the Global Animal Partnership (GAP) label, products are ranked by a five-tiered rating system, with 1 being the least rigorous and 5 the most. GAP prohibits intensive confinement at all levels and only allows debeaking and tail docking up to its level 3 standard.

Both the Certified Humane and the GAP labels go beyond the protections of the Humane Slaughter Act, requiring the butchery of cattle, pigs and sheep to comply with certain standards developed in partnership with Temple Grandin and the North American Meat Institute.

The Animal Welfare Approved label likely offers the greatest independent protection of any label. It’s the only label to require pasture access for all animals, prohibit beak trimming of birds and tail docking of pigs, and mandate audited slaughter practices of most farmed animals.

Concerned consumers might ask if there is any humane way to kill a sentient being that doesn’t want to die. Despite the perplexing state of food labeling, it’s still possible to eat compassionately. Visit local farms and ask questions or do what many conscientious consumers around the world are doing to ensure that their food choices reflect their values—stick to a plant-based diet, thus leaving animals and their byproducts off our plates entirely.

Tracey Narayani Glover, J.D., is an animal advocate, writer, owner and chef of The Pure Vegan, and yoga and meditation teacher in Mobile, AL. Connect at ThePureVegan.com and ARCForAllBeings.org.

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 Gulf Coast businesses!

FARMS

RESTAURANTS & BAKERIES

MARKET ON THE HILL & MARKET ON THE SQUARE

END OF THE ROAD FARM

Summerdale, AL 251-284-3430 EndOfTheRoadFarmAL@gmail.com We use organic practices to grow seasonal vegetables, specialty ethnic produce, eggs and more. Proudly partnering with local farms to also offer hydroponically grown greens, grass-fed beef, sustainably raised poultry and pork, and small batch bacon. See ad, page 17.

FARMERS MARKETS COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET

20733 Miflin Road (Co. Rd. 20), Foley, AL 251-597-5557 • CoastalAlabamaMarket.com Open year round Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local farms with seasonal produce, beef, pork, lamb, chicken, eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods, seafood, hand-crafted soaps and more. Follow us!

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest.

CUMC FARMER'S MARKET

Mobile, AL 251-208-1550 • SpecialEventsMobile.org Spring/Summer Market on the Square in Cathedral Square, downtown Mobile: 7:30am-noon on Saturdays, Apr 16-July 30. Market on the Hill: Lavretta Park, 3-6pm on Thursdays, May 26-Jul 28. See ad, page 25.

OCEAN SPRINGS FRESH MARKET L&N Depot, 1000 Washington Avenue Ocean Springs, MS 228-257-2496 OceanSpringsFreshMarket.com

Open year round on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Shop for organic produce, homemade baked goods, plants, herbs and more.

GROCERY STORES COAST HEALTH & NUTRITION

12100 Highway 49, Suite 628, Gulfport, MS 228-831-1785 CoastHealthAndNutrition.com

6101 Grelot Road, West Mobile, AL (Hillcrest Road side of church property) 251-767-7526 • Missions.CUMC@gmail.com

Local health food store and wellness center to support your healthy lifestyle. Carrying local eggs, honey and produce. See ad, page 23.

Farmer's Market sponsored by Christ United Methodist Church featuring locally grown produce, honey, seafood, baked goods and other homemade products. Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 3 to July 14, from 3-6 p.m.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

GULFPORT HARBOR FARMERS MARKET

Jones Park Pavillion, Highway 90 Gulfport, MS 228-257-2496

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

VIRGINIA'S HEALTH FOODS

Open year round on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information: Facebook.com/ GulfportHarborMarket

A U G

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

3055 A Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, meat, eggs, honey, soap and more. See ad, back cover.

SUNFLOWER CAFE I

320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Organic cafe serving lunch Mon-Sat, dinner ThursFri and Sunday brunch. Using locally-grown produce, herbs and meat. New six-page menu!

See ad, back cover.

SUNFLOWER CAFE II

3055 A Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 251-479-3200 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Organic cafe and juice bar serving lunch Mon-Sun. Using locally-grown produce, herbs and meat.

New six-page menu! See ad, back cover.

SWEET OLIVE BAKERY & CAFE

Located inside Windmill Market 85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope, AL 251-990-8883 • SweetOlive.co 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!

Do you grow, sell or serve locally-sourced food?

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Call 251-990-9552 for details.

This logo identifies businesses that accept Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) discount cards. To learn more, visit www.TinyURL.com/NANCard.

YOUTH – THE NEXT GUARDIANS OF THE EARTH

Give Them the Tools They Need Natural Awakenings’

Empowering Youth and Creativity Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call 251-990-9552. natural awakenings July 2016

19

Innovation, independence and vision drive women to use their organic farm ventures to create a livelihood, express themselves and do their part to change how America eats.

greenliving

SOIL SISTERS Female Farmers Come of Age

by Lisa Kivirist

M

ore women are becoming farmers, bringing with them a passion for producing organic and sustainably raised fare and transforming America’s food system. The U.S. Census of Agriculture reports that their numbers rose by more than 20 percent between 2002 and 2012, to 288,264.

Historic Roots

“Women have played an integral role in farming for centuries, but in the last 100 years they’ve started to self-organize and be recognized for their important work,” says University of California garden historian Rose Hayden-Smith, Ph.D., author of Sowing the Seeds of Victory: American Gardening Programs of World War I and editor of the UC Food Observer. “During that war, the Women’s Land Army of America, a female-led initiative, recruited nearly 20,000 mostly middleclass urban and suburban women to enter the agricultural sector as wage laborers at farms, dairies and canneries, often in rural areas, where farmers urgently 20

needed help while the male labor force was off fighting.”

Women also helped feed Americans during the Victory Garden era of World War II. “It’s also estimated that more than 40 percent of fruits and vegetables consumed on the American home front then were grown in school, home, community and workplace gardens,” says Hayden-Smith, possibly resulting in America’s highest period of produce consumption ever.

When the commercial organic industry launched in the 1990s, women organized to provide overlooked and undervalued perspectives. The wake-up call for Denise O’Brien, an organic vegetable farmer and owner of Rolling Hills Acres, near Atlantic, Iowa, came during the farm economic crisis of the preceding decade.

Although still considered “just” farm wives, “It was the women on the farms that had foreseen where things were heading, because they often kept the accounting books, though nobody took their voices seriously,” O’Brien recalls.

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This launched O’Brien’s agriculture activism: balancing farming, raising children and serving as a national advocate and spokeswoman for women in agriculture in an ecological and just food system.

In 1997, she launched the Women, Food and Ag Network to collectively advocate for a stronger voice.

“Throughout history, women in agriculture have been relegated to providing assistance, rather than making decisions,” O’Brien explains. “It’s up to us as women to collaboratively support each other while challenging the system.”

Cultivating Change

For her 50th birthday, Paula Foreman gave her life a new chapter. She launched her midlife “second act” in 2007 with Encore Farm, a name that serves as a rallying mantra for her peers. “The name is a tribute declaring that fresh starts and new beginnings can happen at any age,” explains Foreman, now an urban farmer in St. Paul, Minnesota. Embodying this business moxie, she chose to specialize, producing one thing very well: organic dried beans.

Relinda Walker, of Walker Organic Farms, outside Savannah, Georgia, represents a cadre of “boomerang” farmers; women that return to the land to continue a family farm with a commitment to organics. Like many farm kids, after college, Walker left to pursue a corporate career in the city. Then the 9/11 terror attack shifted her priorities.

“All roads led me to coming back home and growing food,” she says. Launched in 2005, Walker’s farm was one of southern Georgia’s first organic operations, yielding specialty varieties like rainbow carrots in vivid shades of purple, orange and red.

Future Femme Power

Young women in their 20s and 30s are adding energy, diversity, vibrancy and

fresh outlooks to the female farming movement. Lindsey Morris Carpenter runs Grassroots Farm, in Monroe, Wisconsin, a diversified operation of certified organic vegetables and pastured livestock, in partnership with her mother, Gail Carpenter.

“A crucial key to farming happiness is being a good neighbor,” she shares. “I call around when I see livestock and pets outside of fences; maintain my fences; share my garlic and potato seed; and always invite neighbors to parties and events, even though they may not attend. Even if others’ personal lifestyle and farming philosophies are radical opposites, we still have our physical location and appreciation of nature in common, and that’s big.”

“The women farmer movement is just a toddler,” sums up O’Brien. “We’ve come a long way, but we’re not there yet, especially with representation on the national leadership platform.” It’s easy to support female growers at local farmers’ markets. Cultivating change can be rewarding—and tasty.

Lisa Kivirist is the author of the new book Soil Sisters: A Toolkit for Women Farmers and a senior fellow at the University of Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture. Her family runs the energyindependent Inn Serendipity Farm and B&B, in southwestern Wisconsin.

Laurie Gay, End of the Road Farm, Summerdale, AL

Feeding Families Naturally

F

ifteen years ago, Laurie Gay started growing her own food. “I felt like that was the only way to really know what was in the food I was eating,” she says. What was once a source of food for only her family, has blossomed into a business that is feeding people throughout Lower Alabama.

Gay spends her days managing End of the Road, their family-owned farm in Summerdale that uses organic practices to grow seasonal produce, honey and eggs. As a horticulturist, she worked with Alabama A&M to study ethnic vegetables and herbs, and as a result she specializes in unique produce such as ginger and turmeric.

End of the Road also partners with other local farmers that use organic methods but lack the ability to sell their products at markets. Through this partnership, Gay is able to offer customers sustainably raised beef, poultry and pork, hydroponic greens and organic bath and body products, in addition to what she grows herself. Orders can be placed via email and picked up at weekly farmers’ markets, where customers can also shop in person from the inventory she has on hand.

Gay notes her gratitude for the network of women farmers that has guided her along this journey and continues to be driven by the mission of her work. She explains, “Farming allows me to work around my family’s needs while also supporting them. I’m not only keeping my family healthy, I get to help others eat well too.”

For more information, call 251-284-3430 or find End of the Road Farm on Facebook.

See ad, page 17.

Pat Scrimsher, PJ Farm, Saucier, MS

Farming for the Soul

A

lot has changed since herbalist and horticulturist Pat Scrimsher and her husband bought their farm in 2010. “The first year we were at the farmers’ markets, we spent the whole time explaining to people what organic meant, barely making any sales,” she recalls. “Now I’m usually sold out within a couple hours.”

At PJ Farm, in Saucier, Mississippi, Scrimsher grows seasonal vegetables year round, fruits, starter plants and 65 types of herbs. They also have beehives and chickens producing honey and eggs. The farm is certified organic and inspected annually by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to maintain its designation.

“I had worked in nurseries previously and couldn’t stand the chemicals that were used,” Scrimsher says. “I always wanted to do things organically on our farm—real food for real people. And we go out of our way to make it as affordable as possible.”

Scrimsher considers the farm work to be a very nurturing job. “When I’m out there growing plants from seeds, those seedlings become my babies. It’s very good for the soul, and being one with nature is one of the most peaceful things in the world,” she says.

Despite the peace, it’s a lot of work, especially when crops don’t do as well as expected. She just reevaluates and tries something different. In the end, she says, “Seeing how many people love our food is very heartwarming and that makes it all worthwhile.”

For more information, call 228-424-2613 or visit Facebook.com/SaucierFarm. natural awakenings July 2016

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healthykids

Moms can change the world by teaching their kids healthy cooking lessons at home and planting an organic garden together.

Gardening Together

Mom’s Kitchen Counter Cooking School Kids That Learn to Cook Grow Up Eating Healthier

by Jen Haugen

E

nvision walking the supermarket aisles and picking up a favorite pasta sauce and breakfast cereal, then adding favorite fruits and vegetables to the cart. When we think about the grocery brands we buy or our go-to recipes, they tend to begin with one common thread—the influence of our mothers— our first teachers about food and cooking.

In their Project EAT study, University of Minnesota researchers found that Mom has the biggest impact on the family’s eating habits and continues to play a significant role in our food choices, brands and how we cook, even influencing our ideas about health itself by their example.

Cooking Together

Most of us learn about cooking from our mothers, and one way moms have a tremendous impact on their children is by collaborating on recipes and cooking meals together. The idea of an at-home “kitchen counter cooking school” doesn’t focus on a hard and fast course on cook22

ing; instead, it’s a place where family members gather around the counter and cook together. This almost guarantees that meals will be healthier and more fun, affording a sense of ongoing adventure where kids can explore ingredients from around the U.S. and even the world. Consider creating a “United States of My Plate” project by preparing a recipe from each state during the summer, and then rating the recipes based on taste and flavor (startup tools are at ChooseMyPlate.gov).

Our senses are engaged during food preparation activities. While chopping red peppers for a recipe, we are noting their appearance, feeling their texture, smelling their fragrance, hearing the sounds of preparation and likely tasting some on the spot. Involving more of our senses as we explore our food makes the whole activity more enticing. It helps to adopt Julia Child’s motto: “Learn how to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless and above all, have fun.”

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

The freshest ingredients come from our own gardens and produce the most delicious meals. Gardening as a family can change the way everyone looks at food through the simple act of planting, growing and harvesting. Knowing where everything on the plate comes from makes us more mindful of the energy it takes to grow food, and kids will naturally eat what they help grow.

Moms can change the world—right in their own yard or patio—with the power of a traditional or urban garden.

Just one square foot of organic gardening space can yield half a pound of fresh fruits and vegetables. A 300-square-foot garden can produce 150 pounds each summer; plus it provides a good workout.

In 2011, I started a teaching garden at our local supermarket as a means of showing kids how to grow their own food, with the hope that it would also inspire their families. The goal was to plant the seeds for healthier habits that would last a lifetime. During its first four years, 52 percent of the students’ parents noted a more positive attitude about fruits and vegetables exhibited by their own children. After participating in the program, one mother shared her young daughter’s noteworthy query, “Mom, could you go to the store and get me some Swiss chard?”

By planting gardens and creating kitchen counter cooking schools at home throughout America, our country could become victorious in ensuring that families are healthier. They will be eating healthier foods, working out in the garden and learning about food in a whole new way, all while connecting in a family activity.

Jen Haugen, a registered and licensed dietitian and certified master gardener, is the author of The Mom’s Guide to a Nourishing Garden. She blogs at JenHaugen.com.

Voices of Experience Tips from Registered Dietitian Moms “It’s not going to be a Norman Rockwell-like experience. It’s going to be messy, and everything associated with it might take 10 times longer than anticipated. It’s not about the outcome, it’s about the journey.

“Allow your children to participate in the cooking process by giving them age-appropriate duties in the kitchen.

We’re talking about rinsing produce in the colander, ‘looking’ at cookbooks, stirring, scooping, squeezing and setting the table. As they grow older, give them more to do.” ~Robin Plotkin, Dallas “Every other Wednesday, each child had to cook dinner. I gave them a piece of paper with fill-in-the-blanks.

Every Sunday, they had to turn in their menu so I could go grocery shopping.

Now, both my kids cook really healthy meals.” ~Chere Bork, near Minneapolis-St. Paul “Have kids look through kid-friendly cookbooks and scroll through their favorite recipe app. My girls regularly pick out recipes they would like to try for our next meal.” ~Suzanne Farrell, Denver “Giving them choices makes them feel like they’re contributing, and lets them put their own twist on a recipe.” ~Naomi May, Charleston, South Carolina

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“Teaching someone else solidifies your own knowledge; I knew if her brothers taught my 8-year-old daughter, it would boost their own confidence, too. I always start by teaching about some food they are excited to make on their own. Then I start asking them to help with meal prep.

Pretty soon, they have an arsenal of skills and can prepare a meal by themselves.” ~Niki Strealy, Portland, Oregon “Let your kids experiment in the kitchen.

My first couple dozen creations didn’t taste good, but I eventually developed a sense of what did and didn’t work.

Giving this freedom nurtures a sense of creativity in the kitchen. It’s much easier when spatulas and rolling pins are childsize, like those at CuriousChef.com.” ~Amy Gorin, near New York City “We watch videos together that demonstrate proper techniques. Everyone is designated an ‘official taste tester’.” ~ Jillian O’Neil, New York City Primary Source: Adapted from JenHaugen.com.

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wisewords

How do homemade organics and packaged organics differ?

Liza Huber and her four children

Liza Huber on Healthy Meals and Happy Kids Start with Homemade, Organic Baby Food

by Gerry Strauss

F

or many actresses, landing a role on the hit show Passions would be a career highlight. For Liza Huber, daughter of soap opera icon Susan Lucci, a successful acting career was one step en route to her calling as a mother, public speaker and entrepreneur. Her inspiration was to launch Sage Spoonfuls (SageSpoonfuls.com) to make it easier for parents to make homemade, organic food for their little ones. It’s all about enabling parents to provide a legacy of health, all wrapped up in love.

How did becoming a parent boost your relationship with organic foods and health?

I was raised on a diet of mostly fresh, homemade, food and knew it was something I wanted for my own children. At that point, I knew the basics; that it was healthier and tasted better than storebought baby food. The more I learned, the more I became fascinated by how 24

switching to an organic diet positively affects our health.

Why is it vital to introduce organic food during a youngster’s early development?

America’s food supply is loaded with more chemicals and GMOs [genetically modified organisms] than ever before.

I believe, as many others do, that the rapid rise of food allergies in children is a direct result. Many chemical pesticides and artificial flavors and colors are known to contain carcinogens, suspected hormone disruptors and neurotoxins. It is widely believed that even small doses of these common pesticides can have lasting negative effects on a child’s health. I believe that teaching our kids about the importance of fresh, organic food and the potential dangers of a conventionally processed diet helps set the stage for a lifetime of healthy choices.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Store-bought baby food, organic or not, is processed to have a long shelf life of up to two years. So much of the nutrient content is lost during processing that most manufacturers artificially add it back in, but aren’t obligated to inform consumers.

The added nutrients are synthetic and aren’t absorbed by the body the same way as naturally occurring nutrients.

The taste, color and aroma of commercial baby food isn’t as appealing. By feeding your baby a steady tasty diet of fresh, homemade, organic baby food, you greatly reduce the risk they’ll grow into a picky eater. Plus, making your own baby food is three to five times less expensive than what is store-bought.

Homemade food has a far smaller impact on the environment compared with commercial manufacturing, transportation and packaging. By the time a baby turns 1, they will have eaten from nearly 700 jars or pouches of storebought baby food that generally end up in landfills, because little is recycled.

Which favorite foods do you love to make for your babies and why?

I focus on whole foods. Great first foods include bananas, apples, butternut squash, pears, avocados, peas and sweet potatoes. Once a baby has successfully tried a couple of these, start mixing them together. Banana and avocado, apple and

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butternut squash, and peas and sweet potato are good combos. They’re loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, easy to make and yummy. Avocados’ healthy fat is also essential to brain development.

What key lessons learned from your mother have you carried forward with your young family?

Two lessons really stick with me: “Stay open and leave room for life to surprise you,” and “You can have it all… just not all at the same time.” In my teens and 20s, I was a meticulous planner, disappointed if things didn’t go exactly as I wanted. Amazing things happened after taking Mom’s advice to leave myself open to wonder.

Growing up, I saw my mom have an amazing career, yet also be a fantastic wife and mother. Her secret, and now

mine, is to prioritize and focus on one thing at a time, whether it’s work, kids or my husband. This way, everything in your life gets 100 percent of your attention some of the time, rather than trying to do everything at the same time, which rarely works.

What’s the best gift a mother can give her child?

There’s nothing more important to a child’s overall health and well-being than being raised in a loving, warm environment where they feel safe, loved and important.

My deep love for my children guides every decision I make for them. A mother’s intuition is a superpower.

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Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.

Homemade Baby Food Class in Gulfport L

una Babies, a natural parenting store in Gulfport, Mississippi, hosts Making Your Own Baby Food, the last Friday of every month. This free class teaches parents how to use simple household items, such as a blender and ice cube trays, to make baby food from veggies they most likely already have in the kitchen.

Sweet potatoes, which are high in vitamin A, beta carotene and potassium, are a great first food to try. To prepare, peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into small chunks. Place the potatoes into a pan with just enough water to cover them. Gently boil until tender, adding water as necessary. Place cooked potatoes into a blender, reserving the cooking liquid for thinning.

Puree the potatoes, adding liquid to achieve a smooth, thin consistency.

According to store owners Tera Smith and Codie Weinkauf, babies are ready for solid food when they are at least 6 months old, can sit up unsupported, have doubled their birth weight and no longer have the tongue-thrust reflex. They also remind parents that “food before one is just for fun.”

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Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90they percent you respond to it. must how be felt with the heart. ~Lou Holtz ~Helen Keller

natural awakenings July 2016

25

REAL NEWS THAT MATTERS Independent Media Tell Us the Truth

Independent Voices

by Linda Sechrist

I

n virtually all aspects of life, we are influenced consciously or subconsciously by mainstream media messages. Today, six media giants—Comcast, The Walt Disney Company, Twenty-First Century Fox, Time Warner, Viacom and DirecTV—control the vast majority of what we watch on TV and in movies, listen to on the radio and read in books, newspapers and magazines. According to Ben Bagdikian, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of The New Media Monopoly, this handful of conglomerates form a cartel that wields enough influence to affect U.S. politics and define social values.

Thirty years ago, before many mergers and acquisitions, 50 corporations owned nearly all of American media.

Today’s infotainment and rhetoric, misrepresented as news, is leading millions to conclude that these colossal powers do not exist to objectively report the truth.

Mainstream Media’s True Colors

Although a recent Gallup Poll reflects Americans’ lack of trust in mainstream media’s reporting of news fully, fairly and accurately, fair reporting was what HarperCollins, a prominent publisher, expected upon the 2016 release of New York City 26

public helpful and in-depth information on wide-ranging topics that mainstream broadcast media typically only cover in 30- to 60-second blurbs or not at all.

Dr. Mark Hyman, chair of the Institute of Functional Medicine and director of the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, learned Brogan’s lesson early on. “Independent media have been crucial in disseminating my life’s work.

Given the misinformation being spread by regular news and government channels about weight and health, we deserve to hear the truth about what’s in our food, toxins in our environment and how we can truly heal our bodies,” says Hyman, a nine-time bestselling author.

holistic psychiatrist Dr. Kelly Brogan’s A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives. They were shocked when the book was boycotted.

“The New York Times, Dr. Oz and Good Morning America refused to schedule author interviews or write book reviews. There wasn’t a whisper anywhere on mainstream media about my evidenced-based book on how women can holistically recover from depression without a single prescription. HarperCollins was baffled. I was their first credentialed author who spoke out against pharmaceuticals,” says Brogan.

So Brogan turned to independent outlets, including print, online and social media, her own website, newsletter lists and word-of-mouth. Her work soon broke through into three of the top bestselling book lists: USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and The New York Times. That example serves as clear proof of the importance and power of independent media to furnish the

Today’s independent media landscape shifts at warp speed. With 24/7 Internet access to websites, both groundbreaking journalism and grassroots perspectives appear in original articles and blogs. Outlets include independent online radio, TV shows, newspapers, filmmakers and “citizen journalists” armed with smart phones instantly transmitting images and updates via YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. From a growing recognition that such media play a vital role in shaping a more informed and engaged citizenry, more attention is again being paid to the need for real news that matters. Breaking the reign of junk food news generators is the mission of ProjectCensored.org, a media research program at California’s Sonoma State University.

Billions of dollars are spent annually on webinars, podcasts and e-books exploring health and healing, self-help, spiritual enlightenment and creativity, indicating a reading audience with a hunger for deeper wisdom. Since 1973, New Dimensions Radio, co-founded and hosted by Justine Willis Toms, has featured many of the world’s most respected wisdom keepers. “Guests exclaim how refreshing it is to speak in-depth and at length. Mainstream, commercially based media consistently present sound bites on how things are breaking down and

We need our media to be candid, fierce, raw and searingly truthful about the world in which we live, so that we might propel ourselves and humanity, into a brighter future for all.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

~Lauren Walker, editor, Truth-out.org www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

not working, without opening thought to constructive visions for a future that benefits all life and the planet,” says Toms.

“Independent media have broken away from dependence on the moneyed interests holding tight reins on the news and information they publish. Because we’re listenersupported, public radio is free to explore a wide range of timely and timeless topics,” he says.

Leaning away from one-sided views gives independent media space to expand people’s perspectives and positive expectations for the future. The seven-time Pulitzer Prize-winning Christian Science Monitor international news organization was established in Boston over a century ago to till human thought and thereby improve human lives via an uplifted journalistic standard. “Its quiet insistence for human rights and against tyranny; for generosity and against selfishness; for intelligence, charity, courage, integrity and most of all, for progress and hope—surely that has helped,” remarks John Yemma, current columnist and former editor.

“We work to uncover where progress is occurring, even though headlines proclaim the contrary. There are always two sides to a story,” says Susan Hackney, a senior director with the Monitor, which consistently resists the sensational in favor of the meaningful.

Magazines such as Natural Awakenings, Mother Jones, The Optimist and Yes! are likewise stirring up conversations on meaningful issues via larger perspectives with a focus on tangible solutions. They address such areas as the damaging health and environmental effects of genetically engineered food, championed by Jeffrey Smith, founder of the Institute for Responsible Technology.

“Europe could kick genetically modified ingredients (GMO) out of their food supply because their mainstream media covered the health dangers, while U.S. mainstream media ignored them and kept Americans in the dark. Independent media in the U.S. enable democracy and consumer-inspired transformations of all kinds. Knowledge has organizing power,” advises Smith.

Success Stories

With Fran Korten at its helm, the ad-free, subscription-supported, nonprofit Yes! is helping to reframe our biggest issues.

We in America are the best entertained and least informed society in the world. ~Neil Postman, media theorist and educator “Mainstream media, dependent upon advertisers that would have us believe that we can buy happiness, celebrate stories of the rich and powerful, leaving everyone else feeling small and powerless. Independents can help resist such ways of seeing the world, help people see a different path to success and happiness and perceive themselves as change agents. Together, we share engaging stories of how people are carving out new ways of living that hold the hope of a world more in balance with the living Earth and where everyone’s inherent worth and dignity are recognized,” says Korten.

Allan Savory, founder of the Savory Institute and originator of a holistic land management systems approach to recover and preserve sustainable resources, underscores the need for change leaders and independent thinkers. “As we ponder who they might be, we realize it’s not those that discover new, counterintuitive insights, but those that spread the knowledge. The groundbreakers are pioneers like writers, poets, artists, speakers and social networkers. After 50 years of trying to understand the intense institutional resistance to and ridiculing of my work of managing complexity in a simple manner, holistic management is now quickly spreading globally. This is only due to social networking, independent writers and my TED talk that went viral,” observes Savory.

Laurie McCammon, change leader and author of Enough! How to Liberate Yourself and Remake the World with Just One Word, contracted with independent publisher Red Wheel Weiser to get her message out. “It’s been building awareness of forbidden knowledge—that we each have unrealized potential to affect reality by changing our thoughts. We can nurture a shift in global culture away from an existing way of life that has bred fear, lack and a belief in scarcity,” explains McCammon.

She suggests that to preview a new vision of, “I am enough and have enough,”

and, “We are enough and have enough,” we should look to the fertile fringes; small communities of intentional and conscious people actively reinventing society. “Look at what independent media are reporting on; as well as their unprecedented use of new terms such as organic, wellness, sustainability, permaculture, transition town, sharing economy, social responsibility, biomimicry and the butterfly effect,” says McCammon.

The existing worldview, with all of its core assumptions and rules, aims to restrain awakening individual and collective consciousness. McCammon observes, “As long as the ‘old story’ was told repeatedly by mainstream media with conviction, it could command our attention and make us doubt our inner story. Trusting that the outer world had our own best interests in mind meant that there was no need to turn within. This is changing. Thanks to farseeing, courageous and strong enough independent media, there’s been an overturning to a more wholesome story of mind-bodyspirit, abundance, innovation, collaboration and cooperation.”

Mainstream and independent media coexist like two sides of a coin. Mainstream media’s talking heads tell us how to act and think while independent media invite us to engage, educate and think for ourselves, dig deeper and take action. Without independent media, we would know little about the benefits of the ever-evolving grassroots movement of holistic, alternative, complementary, integrative and functional medicine. Nor would we know the truth about climate change; the health advantages of plant-based diets and community gardens; food deserts and nutrition-related illnesses; the prevalence of environmental toxins; signs of spiritual progress; alternative education; and the benefits of eco-villages to people and the planet.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com. natural awakenings July 2016

27

healingways

Make Time for Downtime

Chilling Out Revives Body and Soul

by April Thompson

H

ere’s something to add to our todo list: nothing.

Americans today work more hours than ever before, foregoing hardearned vacation days and spending more time with electronic devices than with friends and family. The temptation and pressure to do more at the expense of needed rest are great, but failing to take time out to recharge our minds and bodies can have serious consequences, according to experts.

Downtime is most acutely needed in the workplace. In a survey of nearly 20,000 workers, The Energy Project and Harvard Business Review found that 59 percent of them were physically exhausted, emotionally drained, distracted and lacking purpose.

Headquartered in Yonkers, New York, with offices in Europe and Australia, The Energy Project has helped hundreds of businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, create healthier, happier and higher-performing workplaces. The

28

company takes its cues from elite athletes that carefully build rest and recovery periods into their training schedules.

“Just as your body needs sleep and food to function optimally, so does your mind and spirit,” says Annie Perrin, an executive vice president with the project.

There’s a mounting body of neurological research to buttress the analogy.

Important assimilation of learning and “meaning making” occurs in the resting brain, according to Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, Ed.D., associate professor of education, psychology and neuroscience at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, and author of Emotions, Learning, and the Brain.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

When our minds are allowed to wander, they engage a network of interacting brain regions that together are thought to play a key role in building our ability for inward reflection and recollection, known as the default mode network.

Immordino-Yang’s research suggests that such activation during restful moments is positively associated with the recalling of memories, envisioning the future and even developing a moral foundation.

“This network seems to be more engaged when we aren’t actively gathering information or working on an external goal,” remarks Immordino-Yang. Zoning out on TV or video games doesn’t produce the same brain benefit because, “It’s about looking inward rather than outward,” she says. The default network does engage when introspection occurs during nurturing social interaction, such as while enjoying a reflective conversation with friends or family. She recommends banning technology and other distractions during periods spent in activities that bring joy and meaning so that we are present in a mindful way.

The Energy Project ushers clients through a comprehensive energy audit, using exercises to expose specific personal habits that lead to diminishing returns in both work and play time. In one exercise, workers are asked to rank current incoming emails from one to five, with the highest number equating to, “I need to respond immediately.”

Most rate nearly no fives, says Perrin, a realization that has helped many people change their email habits.

While change can be hard, Perrin suggests creating new, healthy rituals through repetition, which taps into the brain’s desire for automaticity. For example, she advises workers to schedule “renewal breaks” every 90 minutes after completing a block of high-priority tasks.

“If you’ve been sitting, move; if the mind has been active, do something to quiet

Just as your body needs sleep and food to function optimally, so does your mind and spirit. ~ Annie Perrin The Energy Project www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

it, like meditating or simply closing your eyes.” She also suggests finding workers to buddy up with and schedule mutual breaks to help support and hold each other accountable.

Immordino-Yang suggests that another practice to maximize the value of downtime is to combine it with exercise.

“A walk can be rejuvenating,” she says.

“While the body is engaged, the mind is free to wander.”

The Energy Project calls on managers to model these downtime activities for their employees. Some companies have instituted policies that limit sending email from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., as well as during weekends and vacations, so staffers don’t feel compelled to read and respond to keep up with work.

Setting limits is even more crucial for young people with minds and habits that are especially malleable. “I see teenagers taking their phones into the bathroom or bed to text in the middle of the night. Parents need to put a stop to this,” counsels Immordino-Yang. “The brain needs uninterrupted rest to work at its best.”

Learning that being a productive employee or an emotionally available parent requires giving ourselves a break and gives us permission to rest. We find that downtime is not just good for ourselves, but also for our families and workplaces.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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I

“

remember the moment I had what I call my ‘golf game epiphany,’” recalls Steve Hughes, a passionate golfer from Richmond, Missouri. “I realized that my main obstacles were in my head, and from that day on, my golf game changed.”

In any athletic or fitness endeavor, the pursuit of excellence unfolds an array of challenges. While golf presents some of the toughest hurdles to improvement, enthusiasts can better their game by acquiring a champion’s mindset. Applying a few Zen techniques and disciplines adapted from the Buddhist tradition of mindful awareness—which teaches that the mind is everything—can work wonders.

Zen Golf master and performance psychologist Joe Parent, Ph.D., of Ojai, California, advises: “The key is finding a way to let the ‘thinking’ mind do all the preliminaries to physical performance—selecting a target, judging the lie, gauging weather influences, etc.— and then letting our ‘intuitive’ mind take over, enabling our body to make a swing that’s free from second-guessing ourselves.” He calls the optimal playing mentality, “Not too tight, not too loose.” It’s the sweet spot that allows

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

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us to perform via our best self. Some key techniques prepare us to find and reside in this just-right Goldilocks place of being not too hot and not too cold.

Developing mental fortitude takes us even further than we can imagine.

Mastery is born from discipline, focused attention and a deep core desire to adopt habits and behaviors that will upgrade our mindset.

Author of Zen Golf: Mastering the Mental Game, Parent teaches his students to enter a state that he calls “trusting versus trying.” He teaches a “one stroke at a time” approach, which emphasizes awareness of being in the present moment, as many contemplative spiritual traditions do. When the golfer is deeply engaged in the present moment with just the right level of emotional intensity, free of distractions and worries about future swings, they become integrated with what’s taking place on the course in the here and now to the point of total absorption.

In yoga, pranayama, or breathing techniques, are employed to promote relaxation in the mind and body. The Zen approach to golf uses breath work to allow body and mind to make the most fluid and powerful golf swing possible for the player. “The single factor that sets

apart the top performers in any athletic discipline from the rest of us is their state of mind,” says Craig Perkins, a yoga master and founder of the Yandara Yoga Institute, in Baja California, Mexico.

“From all my years of yogic study, there’s one teaching that always sticks with me: If we want to master our game, whether it’s golf, yoga or chess, we must first and foremost master our mind.” Practitioners maintain that, meditation can take our mental game to its optimal level and Perkins believes, “Meditation is the number one practice for cultivating self-trust.”

Positive visualization, which can be supported by meditation, is another method champion golfers leverage to improve their performance levels. Parent teaches his students, “Establish a clear image in your mind’s eye, and the body will follow.” Repeating this technique with every shot helps the golfer cultivate the habit of positive visualization by seeing the results.

Physical prowess is of little consequence if our mental game is off. Under the intense pressure of a golf match, execution suffers when performance

anxiety isn’t kept under control. While many golfers have what it takes to succeed—the requisite native ability, experience, technique and talent—mental hang-ups can cause them to call it a day.

Detrimental habits can undermine our self-confidence, as well as our score.

The solution lies in pinpointing what’s behind them and applying pertinent Zen techniques to either gradually alleviate or winningly work with them.

Hughes, who makes his home overlooking the greens of Shirkey Golf Course, says, “It’s about getting out of your own way. When you’re at one with the game as it presents itself, you know your game will be much better than when your mind is racing off to work issues, family dramas and all the other usual life stuff. When I learned how to establish myself in this present moment awareness, not only did my golf game change for the better, so did the rest of my life.”

Aimee Hughes, a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO, is a doctor of naturopathy on the faculty of the Yandara Yoga Institute. Connect at ChezAimee@gmail.com.

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naturalpet

COOL CHOW Icy Treats for Hot Summer Days

by Sandra Murphy

I

She suggests taking a refreshing look n 2015, manufacturers of commercial dog and cat foods and treats issued 28 at low-calorie fruits and veggies such as recalls, some for multiple products, due stuffed celery used in creative, tasty ways.

After removing strings, fill to the potential presence Use the freshest celery logs with plain yoof listeria or salmonella bacteria, mold, danger- ingredients, organic gurt and freeze. To serve, cut into one-bite pieces ous levels of cumulatively and non-GMO (no appropriate for a dog’s harmful propylene glycol, inadequate thiamine, el- genetic modification) size.

Another easy favorite evated levels of vitamin D, off odors or labeling prob- where possible; tuna is filling an ice cube tray lems (Tinyurl.com/PetFood or salmon in a pouch two-thirds full with Greekstyle or traditional plain ManufacturerRecalls). is safer than BPA- yogurt mixed with diced In response, homemade strawberries or whole treats have grown in popucanned fish. blueberries and freeze larity to ensure that pets overnight. For cats, omit the fruit and enjoy safe and healthy snacks.

“Most summer fruits work naturally instead add bits of mercury-free waterto cool the body,” advises Cathy Alinovi, packed tuna or salmon as a special treat. co-author of Dinner PAWsible: A Cook- Add fresh or dried catnip to catch Kitty’s book of Nutritious Homemade Meals for attention.

“Once when fixing dinner, I dropped Cats and Dogs, in Pine Village, Indiana.

“Healthful treats, made from the best in- a piece of frozen yellow squash and the gredients, are a good way to take a break dogs dove for it,” says writer Livia J. Washburn, in Azle, Texas, of her Chihuahuas. from summer heat.”

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Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

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“Nicki waits for things to hit the floor; Nora showed her game face and won the Squash War.”

“Obesity is the number one nutritional disease affecting our pets, so summertime activities that avoid overheating are vital for overall health,” says Veterinarian Jeff Werber, a veterinary medical journalist with a Los Angeles practice. “Proper nutrition is critical—not only to the foods we feed, but to the treats we give.”

Twelve years ago, Rick Woodford’s Belgian Malinois/Labrador mix, Jackson, was diagnosed with lymphoma. In order to keep him eating, Woodford shared his own food. Jackson lived an additional four years, in part due to improved nutrition.

“Portion control is important,” he says.

“What’s right for an 80-pound dog is way too much for a 30-pounder.” Woodford, the author of Feed Your Best Friend Better and Chow, lives near Portland, Oregon.

Frosty Paws is a lower lactose version of ice cream for dogs and discriminating cats. Recipes for homemade versions can be found online. The basics are one ripe, mashed banana, 32 ounces of plain or vanilla yogurt and two tablespoons of honey, all mixed in a blender and frozen in small ice cube trays. Variations may substitute goat’s milk yogurt or add a quarter-cup of strawberries, cranberries or blueberries for antioxidants in lieu of the honey.

Frozen vegetable broth, primed with added bits of cooked chopped spinach, broccoli, carrots or a small cheese cube, is a hit with dogs. Cats like theirs with tidbits of chicken, turkey or a few shreds of cheese.

Using a bone-shaped ice cube tray lets humans know it’s the pet’s treat.

“When I was developing frozen treat recipes, my husband came in from the yard one hot afternoon and went straight to the freezer,” says Paris Permenter about John Bigley, co-authors of The Healthy Hound Cookbook, in Cedar Park, Texas, who live with mixed breeds Irie and Tiki. “I watched him eat two helpings of the dog ice cream and then told him what it was. We often share our food with our dogs. It was nice for them to share their goodies with us!”

The bottom line for the best summertime treats is to go healthy, be creative, use fresh ingredients, don’t overindulge and stay cool.

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Plum and Apple Coolers

Frosty Treats for Furry Friends Cooling Recipes Fido’s Frozen Fruit Pupsicles 4 cups water 1 Tbsp blackstrap molasses (optional) 1 cup fresh fruit (no grapes or raisins), chopped Wash and core all fruit. Blueberries and strawberries are popular with most dogs, while others enjoy melons, peaches and apples.

Chop fruit into bite-sized pieces.

Mix fruit with water and molasses.

Transfer frozen cubes to a zip-top plastic bag; stores up to 2 months in the freezer.

Purée the plums and water in a blender or food processor. Add another 1 or 2 tablespoons of water if needed.

Spread the apples in the ice cube tray and spoon the plum purée on top. Don’t pack, or it will become a denser cube.

Freeze for 4 hours.

Watermelon Slush

Source: Chow, by Rick Woodford

Low-calorie watermelon is high in potassium and magnesium plus vitamins A and C; filled with fluid, it helps prevent dehydration. Blackstrap molasses has less sugar and more minerals than other sweeteners.

Mango Sorbet

Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix.

2 ripe mangos, peeled Juice of 1 orange Juice of 1 lime ½ cup unsweetened almond milk

Serve in a bowl as a slushie treat or pour into ice cube trays and freeze.

Pour mixture into ice cube trays and freeze overnight.

6 plums, washed and pitted 1 Tbsp filtered water, to begin 1 apple, peeled, cored and cut into ¼-inch cubes (no seeds)

Serve the cubes one by one (outdoors may be best) or in a big bowl.

Source: The Healthy Hound Cookbook,

by Paris Permenter and John Bigley

Add all ingredients to a blender and purée.

(10-lb dog: 1 to 2 cubes; 20-lb dog: 3 to 4 cubes; 40-lb dog: 4 to 5 cubes; 60-lb dog: 5 to 6 cubes; 80-lb dog: 6 to 7 cubes; 100-lb dog: 7 to 8 cubes)

Source: The Healthy Hound Cookbook,

by Paris Permenter and John Bigley

2 cups cubed watermelon, seeds removed ½ cup strawberries 1 Tbsp. blackstrap molasses ½ cup coconut water 1 cup ice

Freeze the mix in ice cube trays, small tubs or Popsicle molds.

photo courtesy of The Healthy Hound Cookbook

One batch makes enough cubes to treat both a large- and medium-size dog.

Or share a slice of fun. Many dogs love plain watermelon slices. Be sure the animal doesn’t eat the seeds or rind.

Source: The Healthy Hound Cookbook,

by Paris Permenter and John Bigley

Ingredients to Avoid Avoid peanut and other nut butters or any ingredient with xylitol, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, coffee and caffeine, onions, chives, garlic, nuts and salty snack foods.

Chocolate is also on the no-go list; the darker the chocolate, the worse it is for pets; baking chocolate is the most dangerous. If a pet eats any of these, try to determine how much and contact the family veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

For a full list of foods to avoid, visit Tinyurl.com/ASPCA-Foods2Avoid. natural awakenings July 2016

33

calendarofevents

FRIDAY, JULY 15

Dates and times may change. Please call ahead to confirm. 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, JULY 1 Summer-Time Massage Savings – Jul 1-31. Share the gift of massage, or enjoy an additional session for yourself. Purchase two one-hour massage sessions during the month of July for a special price of only $60 each. Offer good at Foley location only, sessions expire 60 days after purchase. $120. Roselee Marie Giovino, LMT, Foley, AL. 251-228-2077.

BaldwinWellness@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 3

Breastfeeding Support Group – 11am. Momto-Mom breastfeeding support with a Certified Lactation Counselor. Join us for conversation and support wherever you are on your breastfeeding journey. Group leader Tera Smith, Certified Professional Midwife, CLC, Retired LLL Leader. $5 to cover food. Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574. LunaBabiesCD@gmail.com.

LunaBabies.com.

TUESDAY, JULY 12

Sanctuary Dedication Ceremony – 10:30am.

Please join us for a blessed event--the dedication of our sanctuary on the property of our existing church. We have grown and are prospering. Unity Church of Gulfport, 1700 E Railroad St, Gulfport, MS. UnityGulfport.com.

markyourcalendar Green Drinks Fairhope Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks and a monthly speaker (at 6pm). This month, “Hiking Alabama”, “Hiking the Gulf Coast” and “Hiking Through History Alabama” author Joe Cuhaj will discuss amazing Alabama hiking opportunities. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks. Food from Sunflower Café and local produce and meat from End of the Road Farm.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 Kula Kid's Yoga Play Summer Series – 3-4pm. Jul 6-27. This playful 4 wk series will teach children to focus their attention, express themselves and relax. Children will learn playful poses, play music, dance, be creative and rest. Taught by yoga teacher and Licensed Counselor, Rebecca Washburn. $50.

The Pavilion at COTA, 7159 McIntyre St, Fairhope, AL. Rebecca: 251-929-4634. Rebecca.SoulFlow@ gmail.com. KulaYogaCommunity.org.

July 12 • 5-7pm

Fairhope Brewing Company 914 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope, AL 251-279-7517 MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks

FRIDAY, JULY 8 Art Walk-Yoga On The Deck – 5:30-6:30pm. Start your evening of arts and entertainment with an hour of yoga with Annette Porter-Ham. Wear your most colorful yoga attire! $10. Moorer YMCA, 101 N Water St, Mobile, AL. 251-438-1163.

SATURDAY, JULY 9 Usui Reiki Level I & II Certification Weekend w/Julie – 9:30am-5:30pm. Jul 9-10. Learn basic Usui Reiki, supercharged ways to increase focus.

Level I gives you tools for self healing, Level 2 increases your connection to work on others and distance healing, advanced breathing techniques, working with chakras. Nurses 13 CE $25. $300 fee/$250 prepaid 7 days in advance. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 7 S Bayview Ave, Fairhope, AL. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail. com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

Aerial Alignment Asana Workshop – 10:30am1pm. Try aerial yoga and deepen your relationship with your ground practice. This 3 hr workshop includes an aerial yoga class, anatomy discussion and in-depth exploration of how to optimize your asanas in the air and on the mat. $50. Kudzu Aerial, 265 Young St, Fairhope, AL. Kudzu@KudzuAerial. com. KudzuAerial.com.

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 13 Toddler Storytime – 11am. Story time is a monthly toddler group with stories and songs to follow a certain topic. Free. Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574. LunaBabiesCD@ gmail.com. LunaBabies.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 14 Sharing Young Living Oils – 7-8:30pm. Join Laurie Azzarella, Young Living Diamond Leader and other like- minded great smelling people as we explore the many uses of essential oils and how to benefit from a Young Living vibrant lifestyle. Free.

Bay Branch Estates, Daphne, AL. Laurie Azzarella: 850-380-4943. LaurieAzzarella@gmail.com.

Laurie.MarketingScents.com.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

Birth Doula Certification Workshop – Jul 15-16.

Tammy Ryan, Midwestern U.S. Director of DONA International will lead this 2-day training. Doulas are trained to offer emotional and physical support before, during and after childbirth. Mobile, AL. 251510-8540. MothersComfort@iCloud.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 16 Reflexology Workshop – 7:45am-5pm. Jul 16-17.

Learn therapeutic Ingham Foot Reflexology taught

by Laurie Azzarella, International Institute of Reflexology Instructor. Use on family, friends or professional clients. 16 CEUs for therapists. Must pre-register. $375 includes text book, outline and IIR membership. Bay Branch Estates, Daphne, AL. Laurie Azzarella: 850-380-4943, LaurieAzzarella@ gmail.com. Reflexology-usa.net.

Cloth Diaper 101 – 1pm. New to cloth diapering, or just want to learn the pros and cons of it? We are here for you. CD 101 goes over the different types, accessories and washing options. Free. Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574.

LunaBabiesCD@gmail.com. LunaBabies.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 17 Spinning Babies Workshop – An advanced education opportunity about optimal fetal positioning for labor. Open to anyone working with pregnant women. 7 DONA-approved CEUs available. 251510-8540. MothersComfort@iCloud.com.

Cloth Diaper 101 – 1pm. New to cloth diapering, or just want to learn the pros and cons of it? We are here for you. CD 101 goes over the different types, accessories and washing options. Free. Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574.

LunaBabiesCD@gmail.com. LunaBabies.com.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 Mommy to Mommy – 11am. Moms and babies meet monthly with other women to offer motherto-mother guidance, support and companionship.

Lunch will be served. You will receive a 10% off coupon at group. $5 (to cover food). Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574.

LunaBabiesCD@gmail.com. LunaBabies.com.

markyourcalendar Green Drinks Mobile Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks and a monthly speaker every third Wednesday. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks.

July 20 • 5-7pm

Alchemy Tavern 7 South Joachim Street, Mobile, AL MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks

PLANS CHANGE! Please call ahead to confirm dates & times. www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

SATURDAY, JULY 23

markyourcalendar Fascia BodyWork Workshop for LMTs This class is all about how to "work smart, not hard". It is fascia specific, not muscle specific. There is no digit work; it's performed with flat, smooth surfaces: back of the fist, flat of the palm and back of the forearm. $325.

July 23-24 • 8:30am-5:30pm Alabama Healing Arts School 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL Marsha Mathes: 256-698-2151 MarshaMathes.SkinCareTherapy.net

Quantum-Touch Level One Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. Jul 23-24. All can learn, no previous experience needed. Earn approved CE hours and learn how to transform life-force energy into a lifetime of healing.

NCBTMB 13 CEs, 12 CEs by the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Assoc. (IMDHA). Nurses 13CEs add $25. $350 3wk in advance, $400 at door.

Reiki Center of Fairhope, 7 S Bayview Ave, Fairhope, AL. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@ gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

THURSDAY, JULY 28 Women's Health – 6:45-8:30pm. Fortify your health naturally by learning self care Reflexology techniques and exploring Young Living Essential Oils and products geared to help you live your life to the fullest. $5 donation for food pantry at the door. Prodisee Pantry, 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL. Laurie Azzarella: 850-380-4943. LaurieAzzarella@gmail. com. Laurie.Marketingscents.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 29 Making Homemade Baby Food – 5pm. Do you want to make your own baby food, but don't know where to start? We can help. Homemade baby foods are easy to prepare and much cheaper than store bought brands. Free. Luna Babies, 1820 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS. 228-357-5574. LunaBabiesCD@ gmail.com. LunaBabies.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 Pranic Healing Introduction – 2-4pm. Pranic Healing is an all natural healing system designed to teach you how to heal yourself and loved ones. Learn about your energy field, how to keep it healthy, create a speedy recovery of ailments, stress reduction, meditation, plus much more. Free. Mobile, AL. 251-454-0959.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26

PLANS CHANGE!

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 Usui Reiki Level I & II Certification Weekend w/Julie – 9:30am-5:30pm. Aug 6-7. Karen says: “Excellent learning, good communication between teacher and students, Julie is very flexible with what comes up. I would change nothing in this class!”

Level I learn self healing, Level 2 working on others and distantly. Nurses 13 CEs $25. $300 at the door/$250 prepaid 7 day advance. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 7 S Bayview Ave, Fairhope, AL. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail. com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 Quantum-Touch Level One Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. Aug 20-21. No previous energy healing experience needed. Earn approved CE hours and learn how to transform life-force energy into a lifetime of healing. NCBTMB 13 CEs, 12 CEs by the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Assoc. (IMDHA). Nurses 13CEs add $25. $350 3wk in advance, $400 at door. Reiki Center of Fairhope, 7 S Bayview Ave, Fairhope, AL. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail. com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25 Stress and Rejuvenation – 7-9pm. Learn ancient healing techniques that help rapidly discharge stress energy from your system and reduce response to stress in difficult situations improving health, longevity and beauty. Learn how stress accumulates in the body and accelerates aging. Donation. Center for Spiritual Living, Mobile, AL. 251-454-0959.

Pranic Healing Class Level 1 – Aug 26-27. Learn anatomy of the energy-body, the 11 major energy centers, their functions, how to feel energy, keep your energy clear and balanced, disconnect from people who drain you, step-by-step techniques for healing yourself, loved ones, plus much more! Call for details: 251-454-0959. Center for Spiritual Living, Mobile, AL.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 18th Chef Challenge - A Challenge to End Hunger – 6-9pm. Enjoy tastings of dishes from local chefs as they compete to win your vote in their respective category. Live entertainment from Roman Street, a vast silent auction and complimentary beer, wine and spirits. $60. Alabama Cruise Terminal, Mobile, AL. CBloom@FeedingTheGulfCoast. org. FeedingTheGulfCoast.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

markyourcalendar Mindful Resilience for Trauma Recovery Training As an evidence-informed yoga program for vets, this Veterans Yoga Project training addresses the symptoms of posttraumatic stress and other trauma-related disorders, how those symptoms relate to neurobiology and how to effectively teach individuals recovering from trauma. $375 before Jul 30.

September 30 – October 2

Soul Shine Yoga 456 Morphy Ave, Fairhope, AL 251-225-4597 • Namaste@TheSoulShineLife.com TheSoulShineLife.com

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SUNDAY, JULY 31 Pranic Healing Intro – 3-5pm. Pranic Healing is an all natural healing system designed to teach you how to heal yourself and loved ones. Learn about your energy field, how to keep it healthy, create a speedy recovery of ailments, stress reduction, meditation, plus much more! Free. Mobile, AL. 251-454-0959.

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natural awakenings July 2016

35

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 (251479-3952). 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL and 3055-A Dauphin St, Mobile, AL. VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com.

Center for Spiritual Living Service – 10am. Make every step, every choice, every word, a conscious one. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar, Mobile, AL. 251-343-0777. CenterForSpiritual Living-Mobile.org.

Open Table Worship Service (United Church of Christ) – 10:30am. Weekly progressive Christian worship. Gathering in the chapel at All Saints Episcopal Church, 151 S Ann St, Mobile, AL. 251-545-1011. Ellen.OpenTable@gmail.com.

OpenTableUCC.org.

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

Unity Christ Church Sunday Service – 11am.

Tune in, turn on, tap into the loving presence of the Divine at Unity Christ Church. If you desire a nonjudgmental, open, supportive and loving spiritual community, Unity Christ Church of Mobile is here to inspire, uplift and celebrate the Divine. 5859 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. 251-285-3440. Facebook. com/unityofmobile.

Unity Church of Gulfport Sunday Service – 10:30am. Join us for a spirited message from Rev. Judy Voght each week. We also have wonderful fellowship with potluck every 3rd Sunday. Your soul will carry a smile whenever you leave our church. Free. Unity of Gulfport, 1700 E. Railroad St, Gulfport, MS. UnityGulfport.com.

AHA Sunday Yoga – 1pm. Jul 10 & 31. Start the week off calm and centered. Energize, align, strengthen, center and de-stress through movement, body-mind awareness and breath. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/text 251-753-1937 to register. $10/class or 12-class pass for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. AlabamaHealingArts@gmail.com.

AlabamaHealingArts.com.

monday

Hot Power Hour – 9am & 4:30pm. Mon & Fri. A faster paced power vinyasa flow builds strength, increases flexibility, strengthens your core and transforms your body and mind. Find your groove, shine your light and practice at your own level. Heated. $15 drop in, packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103B N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL. Namaste@ TheSoulShineLife.com. TheSoulShineLife.com.

AHA Morning Yoga – 9:30am. Mon & Wed. Learn the basics of yoga postures. Energize, align, strengthen, center and de-stress through movement, body-mind awareness and breath. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/ text 251-753-2037 to register. $10/class or 12-class pass for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. AlabamaHealingArts@gmail. com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

Gentle Chair Yoga – 11am-12pm. Accessible to individuals that are unable to stand unsupported for long periods of time, including seniors and anyone suffering from chronic pain, injuries, movement disorders or limited balance. Also Wed in Daphne. $5. Soul Shine Yoga, 456 Morphy Ave, Fairhope, AL. 251-610-3151.

Group Reformer Class – 12pm. Catch the wave of classical fitness and join Adrienne for a Pilates group reformer class. Stand taller, get toned, and be both leaner and stronger. Also Wednesdays at noon.

Please log onto the website to make reservations.

Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-4731104. Synergyoga.net.

Doggie Happy Hour – 5-7pm. 1st Mon. 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, AL. Viviane Hentschel: MyHappyDog123@gmail.com. Facebook.com/ myhappydog123.

Yoga Dance Fusion – 5:30-6:30pm. Connect with your inner rhythm and flow through Rebecca’s unique blend of yoga and dance. A fusion of dance styles mixed with yoga and breath will be an exploration of your own creativity and energetic flow. No experience necessary. $15 drop in, packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 456 Morphy Ave, Fairhope, AL. 251-929-4634. Rebecca.SoulFlow@gmail.com.

TheSoulShineLife.com.

Monday/Hump Day Massage Special – 8am4pm. Schedule your appointment on a Monday or Wednesday and receive an extra 15 minutes of free therapy added on to your hour session. $75. Roselee Marie Giovino, LMT, Gulf Shores and Foley, AL locations. 251-228-2077.

BaldwinWellness@gmail.com.

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Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

Yoga with Chris G. – 5:45pm. Join Chris Garrett for an energizing blend of Iyengar and Vinyasa yoga.

Recharge the body, soothe the soul and refocus the mind after a long day. Breathe, work and find joy in the movement! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Bridging the Great Divide – 6-8pm. The Family Center is offering this class for parents of teens. It helps prepare and equip parents for having the important conversations needed with their teens. Helps parents see things from the teen perspective. Free.

601 Bel Air Blvd, Ste 100, Mobile. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-479-5700. FamilyCenterMobile.org.

Together We Can – 6-8pm. A Family Center class to help parents build a better future for their children by working together as co-parents. Open to couples regardless of their relationship. Become a team that supports your family's success. Free.

27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne, AL. Christie Brannon: 251-626-1610. BaldwinFamilies@gmail.com.

FamilyCenterMobile.org.

Vinyasa – 6pm. Mon & Wed. An unheated vinyasa flow builds strength, increases flexibility, strengthens your core and transforms your body and mind.

Find your groove, shine your light and practice at your own level. Unheated. $15 drop in, packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103B N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL. Namaste@TheSoulShineLife.com.

TheSoulShineLife.com.

Pranic Healing and Meditation Clinic – 6:30pm.

Headaches, stress, physical or emotional ailments bothering you? Experience healing for your mind, body and soul, with Pranic Healing and/or Meditation on Twin Hearts. We all have the ability to heal ourselves and others. Classes also available. Free.

Mobile, AL. 251-454-0959.

tuesday Sunrise Yoga with Linda – 6am. The calendar says “hot”, but not at sunrise! Join Linda Csaszar and jump start the morning–charge and revitalize the body, ease stress and focus the mind as you begin the day. Find the joy in the movement! Also on Thursdays w/ Chris G. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Tues & Sat. Farmers market offering direct farm sales to the public. Fresh seasonal produce, beef, pork, lamb, chicken, eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods, handcrafted soaps and local artistry. Open year round. Know your farmer. Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermans Market, 20733 Miflin Rd. Foley, AL. 251-597-5557. MktMgrFoley@gmail. com. CoastalAlabamaMarket.com.

PLANS CHANGE! Please call ahead to confirm dates & times.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Hot Restore: Hips + Hamstrings – 9:30am. Tues & Thurs. Hot Restore focuses on poses to lengthen the hamstrings and open the hips. Allow the heat to help you open more deeply and stretch more fully, while you heal your body and calm your mind. Heated. All levels. $15 drop in, packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103B N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL. Namaste@TheSoulShineLife.com.

TheSoulShineLife.com.

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, AL. 251634-8055. AscensionFuneralGroup.com.

CUMC Farmer’s Market – 3-6pm. Tues & Thur thru Jul 14. Sponsored by Christ United Methodist Church featuring locally grown produce, honey, seafood, baked goods and other homemade products.

6101 Grelot Rd (Hillcrest Road side of church property), West Mobile, AL. 251-767-7526. Missions.

CUMC@gmail.com.

Green Drinks Fairhope – 5-7pm. Every 2nd Tues.

Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks. Connect with other progressive people in our area. Brief speaker at 6pm. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks.

Food from Sunflower Cafe and local produce and meat from End of the Road Farm. Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Ave, Fairhope, AL. 251279-7517. MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com.

Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks.

AHA Evening Yoga – 5:45pm. Tues & Thur. Give your spirit the gift of a calming and centering tuneup by improving posture, muscle-tone, strength and flexibility, establishing core strength, refreshing the mind and restoring healthy balance. Beginnerfriendly. Props provided. Call/text to register. $10/ class or 12-class pass for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. 251-377-8940. AlabamaHealingArts@gmail.com.

AlabamaHealingArts.com.

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, AL. See website for more info: Pneuma-Yoga-Movement.com.

Yoga with Valerie – 5:45pm. Join 200-hr RYT Valerie Mitchell for a glorious yoga experience as she challenges with a strong emphasis on alignment and focus while still calming the mind. Relieve stress and rejuvenate, energize and recharge the body.

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

Synergyoga.net.

Sierra Club Meeting – 6-8pm. 1st Tues. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort, AL.

FAIRHOPE, AL FAIRHOPE MASSAGE THERAPY Chester Schmidt, LMT: 251-359-0500 ChesterSchmidt.com Brenna Taylor, LMT: 480-430-4548 BreTaylor.LMT@gmail.com ROSIE BLUUM (DOWNTOWN) Kristen Kelly, LMT 6A South Bancroft Street 251-599-5943 • 251-517-5626 RosieBluum.com See ad, page 29.

THRIVE YOGA & MASSAGE Billie Reinhart, RYT, LMT 251-379-4493 Thrive@ThriveFairhope.com ThriveFairhope.com See ad, page 3.

FOLEY, AL THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Charlene Rester, RN, LMT Historical Downtown 117 West Orange Avenue 251-550-0117

GULF SHORES, AL HOT & COLD STONE MASSAGE Roselee Marie Giovino, LMT Foley and Gulf Shores Locations 251-228-2077 BaldwinWellness@gmail.com

MOBILE, AL ALABAMA HEALING ARTS 6304 Cottage Hill Road 251-753-1937 AlabamaHealingArts@gmail.com AlabamaHealingArts.com See ad, page 3.

ELEMENTS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 6920 Airport Boulevard, Suite 111 251-342-6415 Mobile@TouchOfElements.com ElementsMassage.com/Mobile See ad, page 29.

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

ROBERTSDALE, AL HEALING ACRES Massage, Reflexology, Colonics, Reiki 22355 Price Grubbs Road 251-300-9052 See ad, page 25.

NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit www.TinyURL. com/NANCard for details.

natural awakenings July 2016

37

wednesday Yoga with Susan – 7:30am. Join Susan Kangal and start your day with her refreshing energy as she challenges you with a strong emphasis on alignment and focus while still calming the mind. Sink into the moment and experience the bliss - yes! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Mat & Beyond – 8:30am. Develop core strength, movement control, increased flexibility & improved posture. Experience a full range of Pilates exercises that emphasize precise sequencing of movement, breath and proper alignment that accentuates movement from the core. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Yoga – 9am. Wed & Fri. Experience yoga with emphasis on breathing, alignment and slow flow. Use of props to support your practice. All fitness levels welcome. Class size limited, call/text to register 251-583-0049. $10. Richard Fitness Systems, 1880 Airport Blvd, Ste D, Mobile, AL. 251-583-0049.

$5 Yoga & Chair Yoga – 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, AL. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com.

AHA Morning Yoga – 9:30am. Mon & Wed. Learn the basics of yoga postures. Energize, align, strengthen, center and de-stress through movement, body-mind awareness and breath. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/ text 251-753-2037 to register. $10/class or 12-class pass for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. AlabamaHealingArts@gmail. com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

Positive Parenting – 9:30-11:30am. A 9-week course using the Nurturing Parenting curriculum which focuses on positive discipline and communication with children. Open enrollment is available; certificates upon completion. Free. 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile, AL. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-4795700. FamilyCenterMobile.org.

Free Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis – 10:30am. This chair yoga class is free to participants with MS and funded by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Build strength and flexibility while improving balance and circulation. Fairhope, AL. Thrive@ThriveFairhope. com. 251-379-4493.

Gentle Chair Yoga – 11am-12pm. Accessible to individuals that are unable to stand unsupported for long periods of time, including seniors and anyone suffering from chronic pain, injuries, movement disorders or limited balance. Also Mon in Fairhope. $5. Pneuma Yoga/Movement Studio, 1901 Main St, Daphne, AL. 251-610-3151.

Green Drinks Mobile – 5-7pm. 3rd Wed. Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks. Connect with other progressive people in our area. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks. Alchemy Tavern, 7 S Joachim St, Mobile, AL. MobileBayGreenDrinks@ gmail.com. Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks.

Eastern Shore MS Support Group – 5:30pm. 2nd Wed. Eastern Shore MS Support Group meets each month at Ruby Tuesday in Fairhope, AL. Family, friends and caregivers are always welcome. Weezer: 251-928-7606.

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Near Death (NDEs) and Related Experiences – 6pm. 2nd Wed. Mobile affiliate group of IANDS. All are welcome to share experiences and support.

Free. West Regional Branch, Mobile Public Library, Grelot Rd (near University Blvd), Mobile, AL. 251340-8565. Lbrlumin@aol.com. IANDS.org.

Meditation Class – 6:30pm. Join us for a "more than meditation" class facilitated by Ms. Brenda Love.

Spiritual healing, chakkra clearing, relaxation techniques all in the comfortable quiet of Unity Church of Gulfport classroom. Free. Unity of Gulfport, 1700 E. Railroad St, Gulfport, MS. UnityGulfport.com.

Chill Skills – 7-9pm. The Family Center offers an inspiring four-week class designed to change your life outlook. Learn what fuels your anger and how to see it in a new light. Warning: classes may cause peace. $25/week. 601 Bel Air Blvd. Suite 100, Mobile, AL. Call 251-479-5700 to register for next class.

thursday CUMC Farmer’s Market – 3-6pm. Tues & Thur thru Jul 14. Sponsored by Christ United Methodist Church featuring locally grown produce, honey, seafood, baked goods and other homemade products.

6101 Grelot Rd (Hillcrest Road side of church property), West Mobile, AL. 251-767-7526. Missions.

CUMC@gmail.com.

Men’s Pilates Class – 5pm. Classes utilize reformers, Pilates chairs and barrels. 2-4 people in a class to insure each client receives the instruction they require. Individual and group sessions are 60 minutes.

Call for more time options. Registration required.

2-4 people/class: $30/person. Individual sessions: $60. 4500 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL. 251-344-0590.

PeakConditionPilates.com.

Movie Night – 6-8pm. Showing a different thoughtprovoking movie each week. Seating is limited; please reserve your seat by calling 228-831-1785.

Free. Coast Health & Nutrition, 12100 Hwy 49, Ste 628, Gulfport, MS. CoastHealthAndNutrition.com.

Personal Wellness and Self-Discovery Classes – 6:30pm. Every last Thurs. Monthly classes designed to empower oneself to heal, uplift and detoxify the body, mind and spirit. $5 donation for food pantry.

Prodisee Pantry, 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL. 850-380-4943. LaurieAzzarella@gmail. com. Laurie.MarketingScents.com.

Dynamic Dads – 7-9pm. The Family Center is the site of the Mobile County Fatherhood Initiative.

Be the father your children need--A super hero for your super kid! Free. 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile, AL. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-479-5700.

FamilyCenterMobile.org.

friday AHA Morning Yoga – 9 am. Learn the basics of yoga postures. Energize, align, strengthen, center and destress through movement, body-mind awareness and breath. Beginner-friendly, props provided. Call/text 646-220-8561 to register. $10/class or 12-class pass for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. AlabamaHealingArts@gmail. com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Purification Meditation – 11am. Join Betsey Grady from Rosie Bluum in the hot room and purify your body and mind with a guided meditation and creative visualization. Let the heat of the room envelop you as you go deeper within to rest in the calm center within you. $10. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL. Betsey: 251-517-5626.

AHA Supervised Student Massage Clinic – Jul 8 & 22. School-supervised internship gives opportunity for student practitioners to work with clients in a professional setting and clients to receive quality, full-length healing treatments at a great value. Call for appointments at 10:15am, 11:30am, 12:45pm. $25 for 50-min full-body student massage session.

Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. 251-753-1937. AlabamaHealingArts@ gmail.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

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, AL. 251-9285363. HeartStringsYoga.com.

Spring/Summer Market on the Square – 7:30am12pm. Sat, thru Jul 30. Local produce, baked goods, honey, flowers, soaps, live music and more. Cathedral Square, downtown Mobile. 251-208-1550.

SpecialEventsMobile.org.

Spanish Fort Farmers Market – 8am-12pm. Thru Jul 30. New Eastern Shore farmers market. Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL.

Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Tues & Sat. Farmers market offering direct farm sales to the public. Fresh seasonal produce, beef, pork, lamb, chicken, eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods, handcrafted soaps and local artistry. Open year round. Know your farmer. Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermans Market, 20733 Miflin Rd. Foley, AL. 251-597-5557. MktMgrFoley@gmail. com. CoastalAlabamaMarket.com.

Saturday Morning Yoga – 9am. Join Chris M, Emily, Valerie or Angela and start your weekend with a revitalizing and bliss inducing class. Refresh and renew the spirit—bring the joy and zest back as you kick start your weekend! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile, AL. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga – 9:30-11am. The board becomes your floating mat to build core, balance and flexibility under the sun. Reservations required. All levels welcome. Must be able to swim.

You only live once--try it you'll like it! Rental $30, Class $20. Packages available. 411 Audubon Dr, Dauphin Island, AL. Susan: 251-209-8914 or Michael: 251-591-3316. DauphinIslandSUP.com.

Facebook.com/SUPYogaWSusan.

PLANS CHANGE!

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

Second Saturday Kite Flying – 10am-4pm. Kite flying exhibition and free kite flying lessons for single line, dual line and quad line sport kites. Free.

Long Beach Harbor area, Beach Blvd at Jeff Davis, Long Beach, MS. 228-206-0322. KewlKites.com.

AHA Qigong – 10:30am-12pm. Jul 16. Explore the healing art of Qigong, an ancient Chinese exercise system that combines repetitive slow movements, focused intention, breathing techniques and meditation to achieve balance and harmony. Call/text 251-209-3714 to register. $10/class or 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL. Info@AlabamaHealingArts. com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

Restorative Yoga – 10:30am. Restorative yoga is a receptive practice and in that receptivity you can guide yourself toward a more healthy state of being. There’s no goal of stretching or strengthening. All levels. Unheated. $15 drop in, packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103B N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL. Namaste@TheSoulShineLife.com.

TheSoulShineLife.com.

classifieds Fee for classified listings is $1 per word. Volunteer opportunities are listed for free as space is available.

WANT TO CONNECT WITH OUR READERS? TH R E E - M O N T H E D I T O R I A L C A L E N D A R A N D M A R K E T I N G PL A N N E R

Empowering Youth

A U G

plus: Creativity

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Children’s Health & Well-being

S E P T

The Yoga Issue plus: Healing Music

OPPORTUNITIES NATURAL AWAKENINGS SINGLES – Ready to meet the love of your life?

Dip into our pool of conscious, awake singles and meet someone that you would have never met without us! Free to join.

NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com.

PRODUCTS SALADMASTER COOKING SYSTEM — Service and sales for health conscious family cooks in AL, MS and TN. Facebook: Saladmaster by Healthsource.

Charlie Maples: 256-412-4896.

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. Janet Miller: J46Miller@yahoo.com. 251-654-1827.

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Yoga Classes/Equipment & Healing Music

O C T

Chiropractic plus: Game Changers

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Chiropractors & Community Activists Organizations

Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at: Publisher@HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

251-990-9552 natural awakenings July 2016

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naturaldirectory

CHIROPRACTIC

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 2016 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 at TinyURL.com/NAFeb16.

Dr. Wesley Corbin, DC, MS 1802 US Highway 98, Suite E, Daphne, AL 251-375-0012 • DaphneChiropractor.com Caring for the whole person with spinal health, lifestyle advice, individualized nutritional programs and acupuncture. For patients battling chronic pain and illness, and for those seeking a more balanced life.

CHURCHES

BABYCARE

ACUPUNCTURE

SOUTHEAST FUNCTIONAL CHIROPRACTIC

BISHOP PHYSICAL THERAPY

LUNA BABIES

UNITY CHURCH OF GULFPORT

Patrick Miller, Licensed Acupuncturist 1203 Highway 98, Suite 1-C, Daphne, AL 251-626-7778 • BishopPhysicalTherapy.com

1820 Pass Road, Gulfport, MS 228-357-5574 • LunaBabies.com Facebook.com/lunababiescd

Acupuncture treats neck and back pain, weight management, sciatica, arthritis, headaches, stress/ anxiety, digestive issues, fertility issues, menstrual and menopausal symptoms and more. Experience natural pain relief with acupuncture, chiropractic care and physical therapy. See ad, page 7.

A natural parenting store proudly offering a growing selection of cloth diapers and accessories, baby carriers, unique gifts and other green products for families. Classes and support groups offered regularly. See ad, page 23.

A positive path for spiritual living.

Unity teachings and communities are places of spiritual healing. If you’re drawn to individuals like Oprah, Wayne Dyer, Marianne Williamson and Deepak Chopra, you’ll love Unity of Gulfport.

See ad, page 25.

AKASHIC READINGS BETSEY GRADY

Founder of Rosie Bluum 6A S Bancroft Street, Fairhope • 251-517-5626 BetseyGrady.com • RosieBluum.com Referred to as the Book of Life, the Akashic Records are soul records, storing all information of an individual, place or thing. A consultation offers deep levels of guidance from the masters, teachers and guides, supporting you in living life from your authentic essence.

See ad, page 29.

BEAUTY B-BUTTERFLY SALON

103A North Bancroft Street, Fairhope, AL 251-990-9934 BButterflySalon.com salon offering organic B-Butterfly Aproducts and services

SALON

including hair color, perms and shampoo.

Make a difference today in your hair, your life and the Earth. Visit us for a free hair exam today and go organic! Manicures, pedicures and eyebrow waxing also available. See ad, page 14.

A U G 40

1700 East Railroad Street, Gulfport, MS 228-871-7004 UnityGulfport.com

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit www.TinyURL. com/NANCard for details.

Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings here.

Empowering Youth plus: Creativity

Our Readers Are Seeking These Providers & Services: Children’s Natural & Integrative Health Providers Art/Dance/Alternative Education Facilities Nurturing Day Care Centers •Bicycle/Pet/Resale Shops Natural/Organic Food Stores • Community Gardens ... and this is just a partial list!

CALL 251-990-9552 BY OUR JULY 10TH DEADLINE www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

COUNSELING REBECCA WASHBURN, LPC, RYT

Licensed Professional Counselor 400 Fairhope Avenue 2A • 251-929-4634 RebeccaWashburn.com Experience inner peace and harmony of mind, body, emotion and spirit. Let go of patterns from the past and create a life that honors who you are. Blue Cross Blue Shield accepted.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY KRISTEN KELLY, LMT

Rosie Bluum 6A South Bancroft Street, Fairhope, AL 251-599-5943 • 251-517-5626 Offering Chinese Craniosacral Therapy, a subtle blend of Chinese meridian therapy and craniosacral energy work, that indirectly approaches physical and psychological imbalances.

This experience teaches your body to use its own bioelectric immune system. See ad, page 29.

DENTISTRY DR. DAYTON HART, DMD

IAOMT Protocol 225 West Laurel Avenue, Foley, AL 251-943-2471 • DrDaytonHart.com Free book for new patients: Mercury Free Dentistry.

Offering ozone; laser (nosuture) 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.

ESSENTIAL OILS LAURIE AZZARELLA YL #327923 Daphne, AL • 850-380-4943 LaurieAzzarella@gmail.com Laurie.MarketingScents.com

Experience the healing, uplifting and detoxifying benefits of authentic, genuine therapeutic grade essential oils and supplements. Contact us for personal Zyto Wellness readings and wholesale privileges. Wellness classes last Thursday of the month at Prodisee Pantry. See ad, page 9.

FENG SHUI FENGSHUI831

Meryl Hyderally, Feng Shui Design Consultant 251-463-1862 • Meryl@Hyderally.com fengshui831.com

fengshui 831

Utilizing feng shui principles, let us create an organized and productive space that reflects who you are while enhancing your life, personally and professionally. It's about more than aesthetics— holistically designed spaces are conducive to an effortless life. See ad, page 23.

FOOD & NUTRITION COAST HEALTH & NUTRITION

12100 Highway 49, Suite 628, Gulfport, MS 228-831-1785 CoastHealthAndNutrition.com Local health food store and wellness center to support your healthy lifestyle: natural and organic options for food, supplements, cleaning supplies and skincare.

Chiropractic care, massage therapy and essential oil counseling also available. See ad, page 23.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644 • Café: 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

digital subscribe to our

MAGAZINE

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HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40 years. Extensive supplement selection; organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk spices and herbs; pet supplies; baby products and more. Monthly product specials. See ad, back cover.

THE HEALTH HUT

680 S. Schillinger, Mobile, AL: 251-633-0485 (Across from Home Depot) 6845 Hwy 90, Daphne, AL: 251-621-1865 (Across from Fresh Market) 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, knowledgeable staff. See ad, page 31.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II 3055 A Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40 years. Extensive supplement selection; organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk spices and herbs; pet supplies; baby products and more. Monthly product specials. See ad, back cover.

GEMS & CRYSTALS THE BODHI TREE

Moved from Foley Tanger Outlet To Cordova Mall in Pensacola, FL 850-332-6959 • BodhiTree.Rocks The Bodhi Tree (pronounced / BŌ DĒ/) is a cultural crystal shop fit for both enlightened masters and those who aren't sure what "metaphysical" means. You are loved!

See ad, page 7.

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

Offering gifts and services that nurture your spirit. Books, card decks, essential oils, Bach Flower Remedies, crystals, salt lamps, incense and organic clothing. Local art, jewelry, honey, soaps and candles. See ad, page 29.

Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit TinyURL.com/NANCard for details.

Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings at these businesses. natural awakenings July 2016

41

HEALING ARTS PRANIC HEALING IN MOBILE Deana Lannie 251-454-0959

Free healing nights and group meditations every Tuesday. Pranic Healing classes and the advanced technique of Superbrain Yoga. See ad, page 7.

MOVEMENT THERAPY GENTLE CHAIR YOGA

EMILY SOMMERVILLE, RYT

Certified Health Coach Emily@TheSoulShineLife.com • 205-478-4287 TheSoulShineLife.com Increase energy and manage stress by finding balance in a life that lets your soul shine.

Find true health and vibrancy by fueling your body with clean, nutritious foods. Free initial consultation.

MASSAGE THERAPY

Fairhope & Mobile • 251-279-7517 MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks

Experience yoga's benefits with the support of a chair and build strength, endurance and courage. Accessible to seniors and anyone suffering from chronic pain, injuries, movement disorders or limited balance. See ad, page 3.

7 South Bayview Street, Fairhope, AL 251-281-8811 ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/events

HOLISTIC WELLNESS

MOBILE BAY GREEN DRINKS

Sherlyn Culwell, RYT Fairhope and Daphne, AL 251-610-3151

REIKI CENTER OF FAIRHOPE

Monthly Reiki and QuantumTouch® workshops (CEU's for nurses and LMT's available). Private sessions by appointment for Energy Healing, Reflexology or Angel Card Readings with Julie E Brent, Reiki Center founder.

NETWORKING

NATURAL HEALTH 809 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542 251-948-7862

OSTEOSTRONG FAIRHOPE

333 Greeno Road S., Unit 2B, Fairhope, AL 251-210-6955 OsteoStrong.me A 7-minute session, once a week provides a natural solution for healthy joints, strong bones and muscles, better balance and flexibility and pain reduction.

Accessible to all ages; non-invasive; non-pharmaceutical. See ad, 9.

JEN ADAMS, LMT

22787 US 98, Building D, Suite 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.

42

Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi Edition

DRINKS

WELLNESS SPA OF OCEAN SPRINGS

Offering cannabidiol (CBD), a natural remedy for anxiety, insomnia, pain, etc. CBD products in 11 different forms, plus essential oils and kratom available. Your one stop alternative shop.

Mention this ad for 10% discount. See ad, page 7.

Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings here.

GREEN

SPAS

DAVID'S GALLERY

NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit www.TinyURL. com/NANCard for details.

An informal yet engaging happy hour with likemobile bay minded folks every second Tuesday in Fairhope and every third Wednesday in Mobile. Connect with other progressive people in our area. Sponsorship, speaker and catering opportunities available.

See ad, page 30.

21 Marks Road, Ocean Springs, MS 228-209-4090 WellnessSpaOS.com

A Wellness Spa specializing in oncology skincare. Also offering digital skin analysis, facials, waxing and microdermabrasion. Wellness coaching available. Everything you need to know to accomplish good health, skincare and wellness. See ad, page 14.

WELLNESS CENTERS HEALING ACRES

22355 Price Grubbs Road Robertsdale, AL 251-300-9052 Experience wellness with massage, reflexology, body treatments, Reiki, colonics, essential oils, wellness classes and more. Walk our new labyrinth (open to the public during daylight hours)! See ad, page 25.

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Always green.

DID YOU KNOW? Natural Awakenings is printed on newsprint.

When you're finished with it, this publication can easily be recycled or composted. www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

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Create Your Future with a Lifestyle Franchise!

22+ years of leadership in publishing has made Natural Awakenings the #1 healthy, green living magazine with 98 editions across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic ... ... and we continue to grow!

• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support and Training • No Publishing Experience Necessary

Natural Awakenings recently received the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award. Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!

To learn more, visit:

FranchiseBusinessReview.com

We are currently expanding across the U.S. and Canada. To find out more about starting your own Natural Awakenings magazine or acquiring an existing one,

call

239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine

Supporting the

Health Community r o f 40 Years of our

ganic & sustainable produce, meats and r o , l a c o ing l plus home goods and wellness products grocerie r e f f s o

JuLY Specials

20% off 15% OFF all non-sale supplements every Sunday!

Irwin Naturals, Nature’s Secret, Nordic Naturals & Host Defense products!

Virginia’s Health Foods | 251-479-3952 3055 A Dauphin Street in Mobile Fairhope Health Foods | 251-928-0644 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center in Fairhope

20% OFF Garden of Life and 25% OFF New Chapter everyday!

www.VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com free-range meats, farm-fresh produce and organic beer and wine

vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options

a delicious and organic dining experience Asian Fusion • Mediterranean • Italian • Tex-Mex • Thai • Pizza • Sandwiches • Pasta • Salads Catering service and take-out available. Menus online. Call for specials.

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

Fairhope: 251-929-0055 Mobile: 251-479-3200

Mon-Sat 10:30am-4pm; Sunday Brunch 10:30am-2pm Thursday & Friday Dinner 5-9pm

Mon-Sat 10:30am-4pm Sunday 11am-2pm