March 2015 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS by Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

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Animal Rescue

Big and Small, They Need Our Help

Composting Made Easy

Transform Food Waste into Garden Gold

Love Your GREENS!

Ways to Prepare These Nutritional Powerhouses

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Adventures Beckon Worldwide March 2015 | Mobile/Baldwin Edition | www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

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IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER! Natural Awakenings’ healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has a new look and more features.

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

14 MISSION: ANIMAL RESCUE

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Big and Small, They Need Our Help by Sandra Murphy

18 LIFESAVING ACTS Protecting Animals at Home and Abroad by Sandra Murphy

20 LOVE YOUR GREENS! New Ways to Prepare these Nutritional Powerhouses

by Nava Atlas

23 SEAFOOD, SUNSETS

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24 A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO COMPOSTING

Pick the Best Option for You

by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

26 MIND GARDENING

It Pays to Watch What Is Planted

by Dennis Merritt Jones

28 THE EARTH DIET Liana Werner-Gray on Simple Eating by Lane Vail

30 POPULAR

FITNESS MYTHS

Seven Common Maxims that Can Cause Harm by Leslie Perry Duffy

32 A TEEN’S GUIDE TO

THE CULTURAL GALAXY Foreign Locales Spark Deep Experiences by April Thompson

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March 2015

letterfrompublisher The animal welfare-focused articles of this month’s issue conjured up many memorable animal encounters from throughout my life. I’ll never forget the first time I rode Major, a gentle pony from the neighboring farm at my grandparent’s home in West Virginia. I was only 4 years old, but it was an experience that still stands out in my mind. It makes me smile to recall the thrill of being within arm’s reach of gray whales and only a couple of yards from a blue whale. I felt so small sitting in a tiny fishing boat while the largest animal on the planet peacefully swam by. My whale encounters occurred while I was living in Baja, Mexico, where I also had my first experience with trapping, tagging and releasing sea turtles. As a turtle lover, being involved in a hands-on sea turtle conservation project was unforgettable and gratifying. I’ll always remember the first time I held a snake. It was during an internship at a nature center, where I developed a new respect for the slithering reptiles. Just a few years ago, when my son Mays was 3, we encountered a cottonmouth on a trail. It startled us, but instead of being fearful, we admired it from a safe distance and felt grateful for the close-up encounter. When I managed a children’s zoo, I was responsible for dozens of birds, farm animals, reptiles and other small animals. From Lizzie, the giant pot-bellied pig, to Gollum, the vicious tokay gecko, there was never a dull moment. Although I felt like a glorified poop scooper at times, those animals were part of educational field trips for thousands of kids every year. As a conservation biologist for Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, my field work included seining for minnows and mussels in alligator-friendly rivers, counting colorful birds such as prothonotary warblers and indigo buntings, and monitoring black bear populations with donut-baited traps. These experiences opened my eyes to the vast biodiversity that exists all around us. At home, we’ve always had a multi-species household, where a guinea pig, turtles, snakes, a bearded dragon and several foster dogs have resided. Our current non-human family members include three dogs, a tortoise and two fish, and each brightens our day in a unique way. Because animals have played such a large role in my life, I’m delighted by this month’s articles that promote their welfare. While we highlight many inspiring efforts by dedicated individuals and established groups, you’ll also learn that there are simple ways you can help members of the animal kingdom. Inquire about volunteer opportunities or donate old blankets to a local shelter, pick up trash that can be harmful to wildlife and use your buying power to forgo products from factory farms. Everyone can make a difference. From the chickens that lay our eggs and the bees that pollinate our flowers to the dogs that snuggle with us at night, animals are a part of so many facets of life. With the animal-focused articles in this edition of Natural Awakenings, we honor the meaningful existence of all creatures, big and small. With Gratitude,

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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

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SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe to the free digital magazine at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Mailed subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

P.S. I hope you enjoy our secondary March theme too: Healthy Cuisine. Get fresh ideas for preparing greens in “Love Your Greens!” and read about the Earth Diet, a nature-based eating and lifestyle plan in our interview with Liana Werner-Gray. And if you’re not already composting kitchen scraps, learn how easy it can be in “A Practical Guide to Composting.” 6

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Green Living Starts at Home.

Chemical-Free Water for Swimming and Drinking LA ECOsmarte, LLC, provides environmentally friendly salt- and chemical-free water treatment systems for whole-house point of entry, swimming pools, spas and ponds. Owner Dan Nice says, "We protect your health, plumbing, fixtures and appliances. We do not remove beneficial minerals like reverse osmosis units and our products are easier to use, safer and more effective than traditional methods.” The ECOsmarte point of entry water treatment system is a no-salt, no-chemical water purification system for the entire house, indoors and outdoors. As an economical alternative to buying bottled water, the system purifies all the water that enters the house without the use of chemicals. ECOsmarte also offers the best alternative to chlorine and saltwater pools with a natural oxygen technology that uses an ionic copper system pioneered by NASA. The pool filter media is made from recycled glass and provides far superior filtering characteristics compared to sand. No equipment changes are needed to switch from sand to the ECOsmarte Glass Pack, which is longer-lasting than sand and conserves significant amounts of water.

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Ocean Camp 2015 Summer Camp:

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Camps for Ocean Lovers & Future Scientists! Camp Themes: Marine Animals • Scientists • Explorers • Coral Reefs • The Abyss

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Noah’s Animal Refuge Centre Opens in Wilmer

Redefining Local.

Noah's Animal Refuge Centre is a brand-new facility located at 5050 Glenwood Road, in Wilmer. They are operating with a few dog suites, quarantine area, play yard, office and a huge vision to expand in the future. This nonprofit organization provides a healthy, no-kill environment, safe shelter, rehabilitation and training to companion rescue animals in order to facilitate their adoption into a safe and loving forever home. They are committed to being a voice for neglected animals by advocating educational programs in responsible pet ownership; the humane treatment of animals; and low-cost spay/neuter programs. Volunteer opportunities are available for cleaning, feeding, loving and exercising the animals. Construction, landscape and administrative help will be needed soon, as well as current donations of toys, food, blankets, collars, leashes and other animal supplies. Location:. For more information, call 251-307-5879 or visit NoahsAnimalRefuge.com.

The only produce market in South Alabama where everything is grown, raised and made in Alabama. Monday-Saturday, 8am-5pm•Sunday, 11am-2pm Now Located at Windmill Market! 85 N Bancroft St, Fairhope Delivery available to Mobile & Baldwin Counties. FRUITS, VEGETABLES, HERBS, HONEY, MILK, MEAT, EGGS, CHEESE, SPROUTED GRAINS & MORE! Facebook.com/ChasingFresh•ChasingFresh.com 251-517-5800 • ccorte@chasingfresh.com

natural awakenings

March 2015

newsbriefs Freeman Moves to Snap Fitness Journey's Relaxation Massage is now located at 6450 Highway 98, Suite E, inside of Snap Fitness Health Club, in Spanish Fort. At this sanctuary of relaxation, Licensed Massage Therapist Shelley M. Freeman offers a variety of massage techniques that are guaranteed to leave clients feeling like a new person. First-time clients can enjoy their initial one-hour session for a special rate of $39. Shelley M. Freeman, LMT With four years of experience, Freeman specializes in neck, back and shoulder massage. Working with each client’s unique issues, she is able to release trouble areas and aid in overall wellness. To make an appointment, call 251-303-5745. See listing, page 35.

Gardening with Mushrooms The Bay Area Food Bank Community Garden Network will host a gardening workshop from 10 a.m. to noon, March 7, led by Dr. Juan Mata, a mycology professor from the University of South Alabama. Topics include identifying mushrooms on the Gulf Coast and the general ecology and applications of mushrooms. The workshop consists of a brief lecture with handouts, along with a multitude of specimens on display, and will conclude with a trek on the nature trails on campus to look for mushrooms. Attendees should bring any specimens that are growing in their backyard or neighborhood that they wish to have identified. The workshop is free, but RSVP is required to Camille Reynolds at 251-6531617, ext. 131, or CReynolds@ BayAreaFoodBank.org. Location: University of South Alabama campus, room 131 in the biology department. For more information, visit Facebook.com/ events/920181421333498.

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Give Your Pet the Gift of Natural Wellness Tammy Jones, a pet reflexologist and Young Living educator, will lead the class Animal Wellness and Health from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 26 as a fundraiser for the nonprofit Prodisee Food Pantry, in Spanish Fort. Jones took her first steps towards natural wellness as a result of having Bell’s palsy and back problems from a car accident. Finding that traditional methods were either causing more problems or accomplishing nothing, she met reflexologist Laurie Azzarella, who introduced her to Young Living essential oils and their wide range of healing products. She began using the products on her family, including her dogs, with positive results. Jones says, “Even with good intentions, many of us poison our bodies through what we ingest or through our environment.” Jones’ business, A Healthy Change 4 All, provides pet consultations, pet reflexology, 100 percent non-toxic, safe products for healing, detoxification and cleaning, Young Living essential oils and herb blends that allow a healthier lifestyle for the entire family, including the four-footed members. For more information or personal consultations, call Jones at 850-2595711 or email AHealthyChange4All@ yahoo.com. See ad, page 18.

Waggle Your Way to the Finish Line A Wiggle Waggle fundraiser for the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) will take place on May 2 at University of South Alabama Intramural Fields, in Mobile. A 5K Rescue Run on a certified course will take place at 8 a.m. for humans only. The one-mile walk begins at 9 a.m. and is open to humans and dogs. For those without a dog, the popular Rent-a-Rescue will supply one for a $10 minimum donation. ARF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare and humane treatment of animals through rescue, fostering and placement. To guarantee a shirt on race day, registration must be received by April 25. Food and beverages will be provided after the race. Sponsorship opportunities and booth space are available. For more information call 251-443-1198 or visit AnimalRescueMobile.org.

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

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

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March 2015

healthbriefs

Ginkgo Biloba Calms ADHD, Boosts Memory

esearchers from Germany’s University of Tübingen’s Center for Medicine tested the Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761 on 20 children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a clinical trial. The children were given up to 240 milligrams (mg) of the extract for between three and five weeks. Before, during and after the treatment, the scientists evaluated the children by testing the brain’s electrical activity, along with other ADHD-related tests. Those that had received the extract exhibited significant improvement in ADHD symptoms. A study from Liberty University, in Virginia, previously examined 262 adults ages 60 and over with normal memory and mental performance and found that the same Ginkgo biloba extract improved their cognitive scores. Half of the study participants were given 180 mg of the extract daily and half were given a placebo. Standardized tests and a subjective, self-reporting questionnaire found the Ginkgo resulted in significant cognitive improvements among the older adults.

BUGS LINKED TO FACTORY FARM ANTIBIOTICS

he bacteria E. coli now causes 75 to 95 percent of all urinary tract infections, and research from Iowa State University has confirmed that such occurrences are linked to factory farms that use antibiotics. The findings support a study previously completed by scientists from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and George Washington University that shows a strain of antibiotic-resistant E. coli called ExPEC, an extra-intestinal pathogen, was genetically traceable to factory-farmed animals receiving certain antibiotics. The National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System reports that 75 percent of chicken and turkey, 59 percent of ground beef and 40 percent of pork meats tested were contaminated with E. coli, and that the strains were predominantly multi-drug resistant.

Even Modest Drinking Raises Risk of Heart Disease

ontrary to the hypothesis that moderate drinking can be hearthealthy, a new study published in the British Medical Journal indicates that even light to moderate drinking increases the risk of heart disease. In a large, randomized meta-study, researchers examined patient data from 261,991 European adults derived from 56 studies. Participants were classified as non-drinkers, light drinkers, moderate drinkers or heavy drinkers. The researchers also used a gene variation to determine alcohol intake—a genetic marker that indicates low alcohol consumption of less than 10 milliliters (about a third of an ounce) per week. They found that those with the gene variation—and thus are virtually nondrinkers—had a significantly lower risk of heart disease, including stroke and hypertension, and that even light drinking significantly increased heart disease risk. The researchers concluded: “These findings suggest that reductions of alcohol consumption, even for light to moderate drinkers, may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.”

Meditation Minimizes Migraines

esearchers from the Wake Forest School of Medicine found that mindfulness meditation significantly reduced the number and duration of migraines among 19 episodic migraine patients. Ten were given eight weeks of mindfulness classes with instructions for adding personal meditation in-between sessions. The other nine received typical migraine care. Those in the meditation group experienced an average of 1.4 fewer migraines per month, which averaged nearly three hours less than the ones experienced by those in the control group. Pain levels of the headaches reported by those in the meditation group averaged 1.3 points lower on a scale of one to 10. 10

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esearch from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health has determined that handling cash register receipts, common in credit card transactions, can increase exposure of the hormone disruptor Bisphenol A (BPA), but that exposure is well within limits considered safe when the receipts are handled under normal conditions. The researchers tested 121 people exposed to the synthetic chemical through their skin and found their average BPA urinary excretion levels averaged 2.6 micrograms (mcg) per liter. The researchers then had test subjects handle thermal paper three times every five minutes, simulating a store cashier’s handling of receipts. The researchers found those that handled the thermal paper during the simulation test had an average increase in their BPA urinary excretions of just under 0.2 mcg per liter per kilogram of body weight. The researchers noted that this was still 25 times lower than the European Food Safety Authority’s proposed temporary tolerable daily intake of 5 mcg per liter per kilogram of body weight per day. Primary sources of BPA exposure are plastics used in water bottles and many other consumer goods.

WILD THYME KILLS BREAST CANCER CELLS

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study published in the Nutrition and Cancer Journal reveals that the herb thyme is more than a cooking spice. Scientists tested a methanol extract of Thymus serphyllum—also referred to as wild thyme—on two types of breast cancer cells and found that it was able to kill them in laboratory testing. The testing also found the extract to be safe for healthy normal breast cells. The researchers state that wild thyme may provide the means for a promising natural cancer treatment.

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natural awakenings

March 2015

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

Salty Harvest

Seaweed May Be the New Lettuce Food items such as kelp, dulse, alaria and laver may be unfamiliar now, but likely not for long, as these and other varieties of edible seaweed and sea vegetables appear on more shopping lists and restaurant menus. These ingredients are already favored by cooks for the jolt of salty goodness they bring to soups and salads and by health food advocates that appreciate their high levels of essential minerals. Goodies in the pipeline include seaweed-filled bagels, ice cream and chips. The trend toward farming seaweed instead of harvesting in the wild is making news. Working waterfronts often go dormant in the winter as lobstermen that work during warmer months move inland out of season for part-time jobs. Seaweed is a winter crop that can keep boats out on the water, providing year-round aquaculture employment. Entrepreneur Matthew Moretti, who operates Bangs Island Mussels, a shellfish and kelp farm in Casco Bay, near Portland, Maine, explains, “Mussels are monoculture,” so he has been growing sugar kelp between mussel rafts to create a more ecological model. Source: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Center for a Livable Future

Feeding the World

UN Lauds Small-Scale, Sustainable Agriculture A recent publication from the United Nations Commission on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Trade and Environment Review 2013: Wake Up Before it is Too Late, includes contributions from more than 60 experts around the world. They are calling for transformative changes in food, agriculture and trade systems to increase diversity on farms, reduce use of fertilizer and other inputs, support small-scale farmers and create strong local food systems. The report includes in-depth sections on the shift toward more sustainable, resilient agriculture; livestock production and climate change; the importance of research and extension; plus the roles of both land use and reform of global trade rules. The report’s findings contrast starkly to the accelerated push for new free trade agreements, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the U.S./EU Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), which will strengthen the hold of multinational corporate and financial firms on the global economy. Neither global climate talks nor other global food security forums reflect the urgency expressed in the UNCTAD report to transform agriculture. Source: Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (iatp.org) 12

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Cultivating Youth Farming Seeks to Recruit a New Generation

With an aging population of farmers, it’s clear that agriculture needs to attract more young people, because half the farmers in the U.S. are 55 or older. But for much of the world’s youth, agriculture isn’t seen as being cool or attractive—only as backbreaking labor without an economic payoff and with little room for career advancement. However, with some effort, young farmers can explore contemporary career options in permaculture design, biodynamic farming, communication technologies, forecasting, marketing, logistics, quality assurance, urban agriculture projects, food preparation, environmental sciences and advanced technologies. “Increased access to education and new forms of agriculture-based enterprises means that young people can be a vital force for innovation in family farming, increasing incomes and well-being for both farmers and local communities,” says Mark Holderness, executive secretary of the Global Forum for Agricultural Research. The New Entry Sustainable Farming Project (nesfp.org), in Massachusetts, trains young farmers in how to run a small farm operation, from business planning to specialized advanced workshops in livestock and healthy food. Likewise, the Southeastern New England Young Farmer Network (YoungFarmerNetwork.org) hosts free social and educational events that bring together farmers of all ages and experience levels to network and collaborate. Source: FoodTank.com

ecotip Stop Drops

How to Find and Fix Leaking Pipes While municipal water main breaks make news, it’s just as important to be watchful at home. According to the Alliance for Water Efficiency, a typical home annually loses more than 2,000 gallons of water due to leakage. SNL Financial, an industry analysis firm in Charlottesville, Virginia, recently reported that water leaks cause $9.1 billion in annual homeowner policy property losses. Sensing a less-than-stellar water flow or seeing a leak from a faucet or mold or damp spots on walls and ceilings can indicate possible water pipe problems. Copper water lines can develop tiny leaks over time when the water supply is too acidic. Also, clogs can develop, regardless what lines are made of, from lime and rust accumulations, stressing sections and especially fittings. Particularly vulnerable are 45-to-65-year-old homes, the length of time corrosion-resistant coatings on interior and exterior pipes generally last (OldHouseWeb.com). Fortunately, if repairs are needed, most builders group water lines in predictable places; bathrooms are often stacked one atop another in multi-floor houses for easier placement of supply and drain lines, so work can be localized and focused. Instead of costly copper, many plumbers have switched to PEX—a tough and flexible polyethylene—that doesn’t require fittings or react to acid, like copper does. Repairs typically consist of replacing specific pipe sections as needed. Ask a visiting plumber to inspect all exposed plumbing lines to maximize the value of the service call. Here’s a simple way to check for leaks: Turn off all water by closing internal and external water valves and don’t use the toilet. Record the current reading of the water meter, and then wait 20 minutes. Record the reading again and wait another 15 minutes. If the meter indicates an increase during this period, it’s probably from a leak. Another option is to install an automatic water leak detection and shutoff system. According to AllianceForWaterEfficiency.org, 20 to 35 percent of all residential toilets leak at some time, often silently, sending wasted water onto both household water and sewer bills. Flapper valves improperly covering the exit from the tank are the most common problem, and they can easily be replaced.

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less pain, and reduces testosterone. For feral cat populations where traps haven’t worked, megestrol acetate, derived from progesterone, added to food acts as birth control to slow or stop colony growth.” Treatment of laboratory animals has also improved. “There have been three significant changes since 1984,” says Cathy Liss, president of the nonprofit Animal Welfare Institute, in Washington, D.C., founded in 1951 (awionline.org). “General housing conditions are better, the number of government-owned chimpanzees has decreased and laboratories no longer obtain dogs and cats from random sources, so no stolen pets end up in labs.” She reports that animals now are subject to only one experiment, retired for adoption instead of being euthanized, and furnished with natural living

MISSION: ANIMAL RESCUE Big and Small, They Need Our Help by Sandra Murphy

very creature in the animal kingdom has an essential purpose, yet through human interference, animal life overall has become so imbalanced as to signal a tipping point for Earth. Extreme care for the rapidly growing population of a relative handful of pet breeds stands in stark contrast to trending extinction of dozens of other species. Fortunately, in addition to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, conservationists and supportive lawmakers, every one of us can make a real difference.

Home Pet Rescues

Zack Skow started by volunteering with a nearby dog rescue organization. He became director, and then in 2009 founded his own nonprofit, Marley’s Mutts (MarleysMutts.org), in Tehachapi, California, pulling many kinds of dogs out of Los Angeles shelters. “A lot of rescues are breed-specific; I think mutts deserve an equal chance,” says Skow, now the executive director. “Small dogs get adopted faster, so we get the larger mixes, including pit bulls and Rottweilers.” 14

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Currently, the facility continues to expand its services, working with pet foster homes; providing medical care for severely abused animals in need of rehabilitation and socialization; and managing visits to prisons, mental health facilities and schools. “We take in who we can help. To see a dog triumph over tremendous odds gives people hope,” says Skow. Recently, volunteers pulled 70 dogs from Los Angeles shelters, fostered them for a month and then transported them east to adoption facilities where conditions were less crowded. Spay/neuter is the best solution to pet overpopulation, says Ruth Steinberger, national founder of Spay First, headquartered in Oklahoma City (SpayFirst. org). From 20 years of experience, she explains that in locations and situations in which surgery is impractical, “We’ve had great results using calcium chloride in ethyl alcohol, done under sedation. A slow infusion into the pet’s testicles causes them to atrophy. It’s less invasive, with a lower chance of infection and

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conditions on-site—vertical space, an enriched environment with mental and physical stimulation, interaction with other animals and appropriate food and bedding. “Most lab animals are rats and mice,” says Liss. “Any animal has the capacity to suffer. It’s up to us to treat them humanely.”

Farm Animal Stewardship

“Animals become ambassadors,” says Gene Baur, president and co-founder of Farm Sanctuary’s three locations in New York’s Finger Lakes region, Los Angeles and northern California (FarmSanctuary. org) and author of Farm Sanctuary: Changing Hearts and Minds About Animals and Food. “People are distanced from food sources. Once you learn that sheep love to be petted and pigs like belly rubs, you know an animal as an individual. The best way to help is to share information, farm animal videos and plant-based recipes, so people can see that going meatless is about far more than just eating produce.” Musician Sir Paul McCartney, author of The Meat Free Monday Cookbook, took the message to schools in 2012. Now students around the world participate in meat-free lunch programs. The adult initiative of going meatless for

“Pets are considered property, and until that changes, it’s harder to make a difference. Farm animals have no rights at all. Animals are sentient beings with rights commensurate with the ability to feel pain and even be valued members of the family. They deserve far more than a property classification.” ~Diane Sullivan, assistant dean and professor, Massachusetts School of Law one or more days extends to 35 countries on six continents. Pigs, cows, horses, peacocks and an alpaca live in harmony at local nonprofit Cracker Box Palace Farm Animal Haven, in Alton, New York (CrackerBox Palace.org), which spurs recovery from illness, neglect or abuse. “People get animals without doing research on their care or habits. That’s how we got the peacocks—they have a bloodcurdling scream,” says Farm Manager Cheri Roloson, who rents out their goats as nature’s landscapers to clear brush. Mistreated animals also provide therapy for returning military veterans and abused children at Ranch Hand Rescue, in Argyle, Texas (RanchHand Rescue.org). Kids find it easier to talk about their experiences with an animal that has also endured cruel treatment, like Spirit, a horse that received precedent-setting surgery to repair a leg that had improperly healed after being broken by a baseball bat. Conscious chicken farms, too, are making an impact. “Chickens can be well-treated and have a healthy, decent life,” says Jason Urena, marketing manager with NestFresh, which operates 20 small farms and five processing plants, concentrated in Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin

and Texas to reduce its carbon footprint (NestFresh.com). Starting with cage-free hens, the Denver company grew based on nationwide customer requests for certified cage-free, free-range, organic, pastureraised and non-GMO (genetically modified) eggs. “We’re the first in the country to offer certified non-GMO eggs,” attests Urena. He explains that in the process for certification, feed is inspected at every step, from planting seed (usually corn or soy) to storage in silos and mill grinding, to allow traceability for potential problems and avoid cross-contamination.

Local Animal Rescue Organizations Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF)

Theodore • 251-443-1198 AnimalRescueMobile.org

Azalea City Cat Coalition Mobile • 251-648-7582 AzaleaCityCats.org

Baldwin County Humane Society (BARC!)

Wildlife Habitat Preservation There are few places on Earth that humans haven’t impacted fragile ecosystems. Loss of habitat and lack of food sources are critical issues. Bats are a bellwether for the impact on wildlife from human-induced diseases. The Wildlife Conservation Society studies the loons in New York’s Adirondack Mountains to monitor their exposure to disease and pollution. The mission of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is to use conservation and education to protect present and future wildlife. Of the 410-plus species of mammals in the United States, 80 are on the endangered species list, reminiscent of the bison that used to number in the millions, but now mostly exist in small bands on private and public lands. NWF aims to build on the bison restoration efforts achieved to date (now numbering tens of thousands) by reintroducing them onto more public lands, reservations and protected habitats, and likewise build up populations of other wild threatened and endangered animals. Its programs feature green corridors to give native species a home and migrating species a rest stop.

Fairhope • 251-928-4585 BaldwinHumane.org

Fairhope Cat Coalition Fairhope • 251-367-1711 Facebook.com/FairhopeCats

Greyhound Adoption Center

Mobile • 251-653-4900 MobileGreyhoundPark.com/adopt

The Haven

Fairhope • 251-929-3980 HavenForAnimals.org

Krewe de Rescue Mobile KreweDeRescue.com

Noah's Animal Refuge Center

Wilmer • 251-307-5879 NoahsAnimalRefuge.com

North Baldwin Animal Shelter

Bay Minette • 251-937-8811 NorthBaldwinAnimalShelter.com

Project Purr Animal Rescue

Mobile • 251-287-2413 ProjectPurr-al.com

Stray Love Foundation Magnolia Springs StrayLoveFoundation.org

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March 2015

“The important message is not how many species have gone off the list, but how many didn’t go extinct,” says David Mizejewski, a celebrity naturalist for NWF. “It’s important to understand species require different ecosystems. When we quit draining swamps and rerouting rivers and leave them alone in a proper habitat, alligators will come back. Eagles have fewer young, so it’s not easy for them to recover.” The success in restoring populations of the bald ea-

The 1966 Animal Welfare Act improved the lives of many commercial animals, but more laws are needed. See SustainableTable.org/ 274/animal-welfare. gle, our national symbol, during the second half of the last century was significant. Measures that included banning the poisonous DDT pesticide that contaminated their food and affected reproduction, improving native habitats and prohibiting hunting of the bird allowed its removal from the endangered list in 2007. They are still protected by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Another raptor, the peregrine falcon, has adapted to urban living in order to survive. Nests adorn tops of buildings and pigeons are a plentiful food supply.

Did You Know… n San Francisco’s SPCA is one of many organizations that offer free or low-cost spay/neuter for specific breeds most frequently seen in shelters, like pit bulls, and special programs offer free surgeries. Find locations at Tinyurl.com/SpayNeuterServices. n One female dog can produce litters of up to 10 pups twice a year; cats can have three litters a year of up to five kittens each. n An estimated 2.7 million healthy shelter pets remain unadopted each year, yet only about 30 percent of pets in homes come from shelters or rescues, according to The Humane Society of the United States. n Factory farms account for 99 percent of farm animals, yet less than 1 percent of donated money directly assists them, reports Animal Charity Evaluators, in San Diego. The highly rated Mercy for Animals, dedicated to prevention of cruelty to farmed animals, reports, “Despite the fact that these are the most abused animals in the United States, they actually have the fewest number of advocates.” n Sandra, a 29-year-old Sumatran orangutan at the Buenos Aires Zoo, was recognized as a “non-human person” unlawfully deprived of her freedom by Argentine courts. “This opens the way not only for other great apes, but also for other sentient beings that are unfairly and arbitrarily deprived of their liberty,” says Paul Buompadre, an attorney with the Association of Officials and Lawyers for Animal Rights. “The question is not ‘Can they reason?’ or ‘Can they talk?’ but ‘Can they suffer?’” says Barry MacKay, director of the Animal Alliance of Canada. “That to me is the ultimate question.”

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Bears, mountain lions and wolves have been dwindling, hunted as dangerous, a nuisance or for sport. With fewer of these natural predators, whitetailed deer can overpopulate their habitat and starve. Deer and other displaced animals may migrate into suburban areas in search of food, prompting hurtful human reactions to reduce their numbers. The American Bear Association provides safe, seasonal habitats for black bears (AmericanBear.org). Located near Orr, Minnesota, the 360-acre sanctuary also hosts white-tailed deer, bald eagles, beavers, mink, pine martens, fishers, timber wolves, red squirrels, bobcats, blue jays, owls, ducks, songbirds and ravens. Among movements to protect smaller endangered and threatened animals, the American Tortoise Rescue lobbies for legislation to ban the importation of nonnative species (Tortoise.com). “Turtles and bullfrogs are imported as pets or as food, and many end up in streams or lakes, where they kill native species,” says co-founder Susan M. Tellem, in Malibu, California. “They can carry salmonella, parasites and tuberculosis,” she explains. Unfortunately, a California law passed to limit importation was revoked within weeks due to claims of cultural bias by politicians lobbying for Asian food markets that sell live turtles and bullfrogs. As the only Association of Zoos and Aquariums-certified wolf facility in the world, The Endangered Wolf Center, in Eureka, Missouri, has been breeding and reintroducing wolves into the wild for 40 years (EndangeredWolfCenter.org). Founded by zoologist and television host Marlin Perkins and his wife, Carol, they helped increase both the Mexican gray wolf population from nine to 235 in managed care, plus at least 75 in the wild, and the red wolf population from 14 to 160 in managed care, with more than 100 in the wild. Every pack of Mexican gray wolves roaming the Southwest and 70 percent of North Carolina red wolves can be

traced back to the center. Wildlife protection laws vary by state. Key conservation successes typically begin with local and regional initiatives promoted by farsighted individuals that care enough to get the ball rolling and back it up with supportive legislation. Christian Samper, Ph.D., CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Society, observes, “Zoos and aquariums help the public better understand the natural systems that make all life possible. The hope is that what people understand, they will appreciate and what they appreciate, they will work to protect.” One person’s care can make a difference. For an animal, it can mean life itself. Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouis FreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

What You Can Do 4 Volunteer to walk a dog, foster a cat, make phone calls or help with shelter paperwork. 4 Spay/neuter pets and consider adopting before shopping at a pet store. 4 Donate to support rehabilitation of an abused animal. 4 Pick up litter, especially harmful in and near waterways. 4 Be a conscious consumer and don’t let factory farm prices influence decisions. 4 Tell companies what is accept able or not via purchases, emails and phone calls. 4 Lobby politicians to support worthy animal causes.

Locals Protect Animals for a Better World

new homegrown nonprofit, known as ARC (Awakening Respect and Compassion for All Sentient Beings) is holding a zero waste vegan dinner on the fourth Saturday of each month at Plantation Antique Galleries, in Mobile, to introduce people to plant-based foods and foster a thriving community of people that share a vision for a sustainable and compassionate world. ARC seeks to “raise awareness about humancaused animal suffering, to inspire compassion for all sentient beings and to guide, lead, and inspire positive transformation to create a more sustainable and compassionate world for all.” ARC will concentrate on helping the animals most often overlooked in society and the most abused: farmed animals. “We want to focus on these animals because of the scope of their suffering and how connected that is to so many of the world’s most pressing problems. We slaughter 10 billion land animals every year in the U.S. alone, the vast majority of whom have led lives of such immense suffering we can’t even bear to think about them,” says Tracey Glover, a co-founding member. According to United Nations statistics, animal agriculture is a leading cause of climate change, and an animal-centered diet is also a major contributor to the diseases of affluence, such as cancer, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. ARC’s position is that adopting a plant-based diet is the most powerful individual action people can take to reduce animal suffering, reverse the process of global warming and keep healthy. Their goal is to educate, inspire and support people that want to live the most socially just, compassionate and sustainable way they can. For more information, visit ARCForAllBeings. org or Facebook.com/arcforallbeings. natural awakenings

March 2015

naturalpet

animals mainly from overflowing shelters. About half of its 150 volunteers foster pets; others plan educational events or handle administrative tasks. “Each person has a specialty,” says Jamie Thomas, executive director. “We match fosters and animals to get the best results.” No kill shelters are becoming more common, even though they require uncommon commitment. As part of implementing effective procedures and infrastructure, shelter leadership works to secure the support and involvement of the community. By joining together to implement lifesaving programs and treat each life as precious, a shelter can transform a community. Find a no kill shelter primer at Tinyurl.com/NoKillReform.

LIFESAVING ACTS Protecting Animals at Home and Abroad by Sandra Murphy

ach year, more dogs, cats and other pets end up in shelters as lost, stray or owner-surrendered than leave them for a new home. What can be done to reverse this trend?

How to Help

Immediate steps: Have a vet implant a tiny RFID (radio frequency identification) microchip. It’s safe, affordable and helps reunite the owner with a lost pet. Spay/ neuter pets to avoid unwanted litters. Spread the word: Only about 30 percent of household pets come from

shelters or rescues, according to the ASPCA. To help, suggest that shelters post photos in the lobby, supported by a note about each animal’s good points and special needs to entice potential adopters. Also share YouTube videos that celebrate adoption and advocate controlling the pet population (see Tinyurl. com/SpayNeuterStreetMusic1 and Tinyurl.com/SpayNeuterStreetMusic2). Volunteer: The Motley Zoo, in Redmond, Washington, provides medical care and behavioral training for ill, injured, neglected, abused and unwanted

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In Faraway Lands

Illegal wildlife trading and loss of habitat are huge and escalating problems wild animals face every day. Small repopulation success stories exist, but progress is slow. Here are some of the most urgent and dramatic perils topping the lengthy endangered species list. Elephants are hunted for their ivory tusks. “China is the largest consumer of ivory, but the United States is second,” says Jeff Flocken, J.D., North American regional director with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), headquartered in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts (ifaw.org). “Every year, 35,000 elephants are killed; an average of one every 15 minutes.” Northern white rhinos once freely roamed East and Central Africa south of the Sahara. Until 1960, there were more than 2,000; today, only five exist—one in the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park, one in a Czech Republic zoo and three at a wildlife conservancy in Kenya. Imported as pets or show attractions, “There are between 10,000 and 20,000 big cats in private hands in America at facilities/businesses not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums,” says Carson Barylak, with IFAW’s Washington, D.C., office. “There are more tigers in private possession in the U.S. than in the wild.” Pangolins eat ants and termites. Hunted for meat and their scales (used in Asian medicines), they are one of the world’s most endangered mammals (see Tinyurl.com/SavePangolins).

Thirty years ago, the world population of lowland gorillas numbered 240. Thanks to the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the population has grown to an estimated 880 (GorillaDoctors.org is supported by SaveAGorilla.org). Led by Ruth Keesling, the project has shown the inestimable value of the species. “Once you’ve looked into the eyes of a gorilla, you’re forever changed,” says her son Frank, in Denver, Colorado.

How to Help

Make saving animals a priority. Contact legislators. Be a law-abiding consumer— don’t buy ivory or other endangeredanimal products. Support conservancy groups. Share information. Donate time and money. “IFAW is working to advance legislation to prohibit private ownership of big cats in the U.S. The bill received bipartisan support and we hope to see it become law,” says Barylak. “We’ve asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ban direct contact with big cats. It’s harmful to the animals and the people that handle them.” Annual running events with participants donning gorilla costumes raise funds and awareness. Following the Austin, Texas, event in January, runs will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, on March 29 and in Denver, Colorado, on November 1. “Another way to help gorillas is to recycle cell phone and computer batteries. Coltan [tantalite] is used to make batteries—13 percent of the world’s supply of coltan is in the park area of the Congo,” says Frank Keesling. Barriers to improving the lives of animals can be overcome and banished when we believe it’s possible and everyone helps. The animals are counting on us. Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

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March 2015

healingways

LOVE YOUR

GREENS! New Ways to Prepare these Nutritional Powerhouses by Nava Atlas

or seasonal eaters, farm market shoppers and members of community supported agriculture, vegetable greens have become a normal part of everyday diets. Recognized as the most nutrient-rich group of veggies, they deliver multiple benefits. Greens are a top source of vitamin K, essential to bone health, and are abundant in vitamins A, B (especially folic acid) and C. They deliver considerable antioxidants and chlorophyll, widely known to protect against cancer, and are anti-inflammatory, according to Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a family physician in Flemington, New Jersey, who specializes in nutritional medicine. Fuhrman notes, “The majority of calories in green vegetables, including leafy greens, come from protein, and this plant protein is packaged with beneficial phytochemicals. They’re rich in folate and calcium, and contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.” Hardy greens, like kale, chard and collards, are good sources of accessible calcium. Only about 30 percent of calcium from dairy products is absorbed, but according to Registered Dietitian Ginny Messina, “For certain leafy green

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vegetables, rates are considerably higher. We absorb between 50 and 60 percent of the calcium in cruciferous leafy green vegetables like kale and turnip greens.” Tasty and versatile, greens can add interest and value to every meal. Here’s how. Smoothies and juices. Spinach tastes so mild in smoothies and juices that we barely know it’s there. Kale and collards add a mild greens flavor. A big handful or two of spinach or one or two good-size kale or collard leaves per serving is about right. Greens blend well with bananas, apples, berries and pears. A high-speed blender is needed to break down kale and collards; a regular blender is sufficient for spinach. An online search for “green smoothies” will turn up many recipes. Use “massaged” raw kale in salads. Rinse and spin-dry curly kale leaves stripped from their stems, and then chop into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the stems to add to another salad or lightly cooked vegetable dishes or simply discard. Place the cut kale in a serving bowl. Rub a little olive oil onto both palms and massage the kale for 45 to 60 seconds; it’ll soften up and turn bright green. Add other desired veggies and fruits and dress the mixture.

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A favorite recipe entails tossing massaged kale with dried cranberries, toasted or raw cashew pieces, vegan mayonnaise and a little lemon juice. Massaged kale also goes well with avocados, apples, pears, Napa or red cabbage, carrots, pumpkin seeds and walnuts. It can alternatively be dressed in ordinary vinaigrette, sesame-ginger or tahini dressing. Add hardy greens to stir-fries. The best stir-fry greens are lacinato kale, collards or chard. Rinse and dry the leaves, and then strip them from the stems. Stack a few leaves and roll them up snugly from the narrow end. Slice thinly to make long, thin ribbons and then cut them once or twice across to shorten; adding thinly sliced stems is optional. Add the strips to the stir-fry toward the end of cooking. They blend well with broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery, bok choy, asparagus and green beans. Soy sauce, tamari and ginger add flavor. Use leafy spring greens in salads. Look beyond lettuce to create invigorating warm-weather salads. Use lots of peppery watercress (a nutritional superstar), baby bok choy, tender dandelion greens, tatsoi and mizuna (Japanese greens are increasingly available from farm markets). Combine with baby greens and sprouts, plus favorite salad veggies and fruits for a clean-tasting and cleansing repast. Learn to love bitter greens. Add variety to the meal repertoire with escarole, broccoli rabe and mustard greens. These mellow considerably with gentle braising or incorporation into soups and stews. Heat a little olive oil in a large, deep skillet or stir-fry pan; sauté chopped garlic and/or shallots to taste. Add washed and chopped greens, stir quickly to coat with the oil, and then add about a quarter cup of water or vegetable stock. Cover and cook until tender and wilted, about five minutes. Traditional additions include raisins and toasted pine nuts, salt and pepper and a little apple cider vinegar. Nava Atlas is the author of the recent book, Plant Power: Transform Your Kitchen, Plate, and Life with More Than 150 Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Recipes, from which this was adapted. Visit VegKitchen.com.

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RAW KALE SALADS by Nava Atlas

ealth foodies can step it up a bit by discovering how to make delicious raw kale salads—sometimes referred to as massaged kale salads. Literally massaging this hardy green with olive oil, salad dressing or mashed avocado softens it for easier chewing, brightens the color and improves its flavor. A favorite kind of kale for salads is curly green kale. Lacinato kale works well, too, as long as it isn’t too large and tough prior to massaging. Even when kale isn’t the main leafy green in a salad, adding a few prepared leaves can up the nutrient value of any kind of green, grain or pasta salad. For each of the following recipes, start with a medium bunch of kale (about eight ounces), or more or less to taste. Finish each salad with sea salt and freshly ground pepper, if preferred.

Southwestern-Flavored Kale Salad

To the massaged kale, add two or three medium-sized fresh ripe tomatoes, a peeled and diced avocado, one to two cups cooked or raw fresh corn kernels, some red bell pepper strips and optional chopped green or black olives. Flavor with freshly squeezed or bottled lime juice, a little olive oil and some chopped cilantro. To up the protein for a main dish, add some cooked or canned, drained and rinsed, black or pinto beans and then sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the top.

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Mediterranean Kale Salad

To the massaged kale, add two or three medium-sized chopped fresh ripe tomatoes, strips of sun-dried tomato, plenty of bell pepper strips and chopped or whole cured black olives. For protein, add a cup or two of cooked or canned, drained and rinsed, chickpeas. Top with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves.

Kale and Avocado Salad

Add a peeled and diced avocado, plus thinly sliced red cabbage to taste, sliced carrots, diced yellow squash, halved red and/or yellow fresh grape tomatoes and sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Optionally, add a little more olive oil in addition to that used for massaging and some freshly squeezed or bottled lemon or lime juice.

Asian-Flavored Kale Salad

Massage the kale with dark sesame oil instead of olive oil as an option. Add a medium-sized red bell pepper, cut into narrow slices, three stalks of bok choy with leaves, sliced (or one sliced baby bok choy) plus one or two thinly sliced scallions. Dress with a sesame-ginger dressing. Optional additions include some crushed toasted peanuts or cashews, steamed or boiled and chilled corn kernels and about four ounces of baked tofu, cut into narrow strips. All recipes courtesy of Nava Atlas, author of Plant Power: Transform Your Kitchen, Plate, and Life With More Than 150 Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Recipes; used with permission.

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Seafood, Sunsets & Sustainability Original Oyster House Serves Locals and the Planet

he Original Oyster House (OOH) restaurant, with locations on the causeway in Mobile and in Gulf Shores, has been known for its fresh Gulf seafood, panoramic waterfront sunsets and southern hospitality for more than 30 years. While it has become famous for homemade gumbo, cheesy grits with blackened shrimp and handcrafted desserts, OOH is also earning a reputation for a commitment to sustainability. Coowner and vice president David Dekle believes that everyone should consider their own carbon footprint and think about ways they can reduce it. "We need to leave our environment in better shape than how we found it. In actuality it should not be too hard to do," he says. OOH has reduced its ecological impact by utilizing alternative energy sources such as biofuels (cooking oil), sun and wind, all of which are in no short supply in Lower Alabama. Dekle says, “My friend and mentor, the late Kevin Jones, would get excited about renewable energy sources. We use a lot of shortening in the kitchen, and he showed us how to convert it into fuel.” Since 2010, OOH has converted all its used frying oil to biodiesel to fuel company vehicles. In December 2012, a wind turbine was installed at the Mobile location on a 55-foot-high tower, running 24 hours a day to generate power whenever winds get up to eight miles per hour. That power offsets energy costs and lights up the restaurant's playground, holiday lights

by Meredith Montgomery and outdoor areas. Surplus energy is distributed back onto the grid. In 2013, solar water heaters were installed at both locations. Dekle explains, “A solar water heater is strictly a plumbing connection to your larger water heater. So for us, 40 gallons of water are preheated by the sun before filling our two huge hot water tanks. It’s a much more efficient way to heat water.” In recognition of its proactive environmental stance and sustainable practices, the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Environmental Committee honored OOH as its 2013 environmental award winner by planting a 15-foot Nuttal Oak at Christ the King Catholic School, in Daphne. OOH is one of the only seafood restaurants with a fresh salad bar served daily, and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with affordable kids’ meals and an outdoor playground. Consistently earning high marks in customer satisfaction, their mission is to exceed customer expectations and give back to the community. While diners frequent the restaurants for their hand-shucked oysters; served baked, broiled, fried or grilled over an open flame, the creatures are much more than a seafood favorite. Essential to the water quality of Mobile Bay, an oyster is capable of filtering five gallons of water per hour. Oyster

reefs protect shorelines from erosion and provide habitat to more than 300 species. In support of restoration efforts of oyster reefs, OOH sponsored the first Oyster Trail installation on the Mobile Causeway, a second sculpture in Gulf Shores and the 2015 Oyster Trailblazer calendar. The Oyster Trail (TheOysterTrail.com) is an educational public art program throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties that supports restoration efforts for oyster reefs in and around Mobile Bay and the Mississippi Sound. Consequently, kids’ menus will feature educational information about the Oyster Trail and oyster gardening. “Everything is connected,” says Dekle. “We’re all tied to the same ecosystem and we all need to be more responsible stewards of our community and the environment.” Locations: Mobile, 3733 Battleship Pkwy., on the causeway; Gulf Shores, 701 Hwy. 59 on the Original Oyster House Boardwalk. For more information, call 251-9282620 or visit OriginalOysterHouse.com. See ad, back cover.

natural awakenings

March 2015

greenliving

A Practical Guide to Composting Pick the Best Option for You by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

ard and food waste make up 25 percent of the garbage destined for municipal landfills, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pick the right composter and this organic waste will easily turn into rich—and free—garden fertilizer, saving landfill space and reducing the volume of greenhouse gases generated by anaerobic decomposition. Unless using a specialized bin, maintain a roughly 50/50 compost mixture of “brown” and “green” organic waste for ideal results. Green waste is moist, such as fruit and vegetable peels; brown waste comprises dry and papery material, including grass clippings.

Low-Maintenance Pile

Good for: People that want something simple, don’t need fertilizer immediately and have extra outdoor space; average to large households with yard waste. Maintaining a compost pile is as easy as its name implies—simply toss organic yard and kitchen waste into a pile in the yard. Aerating or turning the compost with a pitchfork or shovel will provide quicker results, but waste will also decompose if left alone. Within six to 24 months, all of the waste will decompose aerobically into compost. Once a year, composters can dig out the finished compost from the bottom. This method won’t work for households that don’t generate yard waste because a pile of 24

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Multi-tiered composters are a series of stacked boxes with removable panels to allow the organic waste to move downward throughout the decomposition cycle. Finished compost comes out of a door at the bottom. Because the boxes are smaller than a large pile or bin, compost will “cook” faster; some users report their first batch took just four to six months. Collectively, stacked boxes are often comparable in size to a large holding bin, so they can compost a large amount of waste.

Worm Bin

100 percent green waste will attract pests.

Holding Bin

Good for: People that want a low-maintenance option that’s more attractive than a pile; average to large households with yard waste. Make a bin out of wood or buy a plastic holding bin, which can contain up to 75 gallons. One with insulated sides may allow decomposing to continue in colder weather.

Tumbling Barrel

Good for: People that want quick results and can compost in smaller batches; small to average households with yard waste. These barrel-shaped containers are turned with a hand crank, making aerating and speeding up decomposition a breeze. Some manufacturers promise results in as little as two weeks. Due to the barrel’s relatively smaller size and capacity, getting the balance between brown and green waste right is critical for optimal results, and users will need to wait for one batch of compost to finish before adding more organic waste.

Multi-Tiered Boxes

Good for: People looking for low maintenance, but quicker results than a pile or bin; average to large households with yard waste.

Good for: People that want to compost indoors; apartment dwellers and small households that don’t generate yard waste. For everyone that has wanted to compost, but had insufficient outdoor space, a five-or-10-gallon bucket and some red worms could be the answer. Worm composting, or vermicomposting, is so compact that a worm bin can fit under most kitchen sinks. Because red worms are so efficient—each pound of them will process half a pound of food scraps daily—a worm bin doesn’t need aeration and won’t smell or attract pests. Note that worms won’t process brown waste, meat, dairy or fatty foods.

Green Cone

Good for: People that just want to dump their kitchen waste and be done with it; those that want to compost fish or meat; households that don’t generate yard waste. Solarcone Inc.’s Green Cone system

WHAT TO COMPOST Do compost: 4 Fruit and vegetable scraps 4 Grass clippings, twigs, leaves and wood chips 4 Eggshells (broken into small pieces) 4 Coffee grounds and tea bags 4 Unbleached coffee filters, paper and cardboard Don’t compost: 4 Pet waste 4 Meat and dairy (except in Green Cone device)

will handle up to two pounds of kitchen waste daily, including meat, fish and dairy products. It won’t compost brown waste. Users bury the bottom basket in the yard, and then simply put green waste together with an “accelerator powder” into a cone hole in the top. According to Solarcone, most of the waste turns into water. Every few years, users need to dig a small amount of residue out of the bottom that can be added to a garden. Tracy Fernandez Rysavy is editor-in-chief of the nonprofit Green America’s Green American magazine, from which this article was adapted (GreenAmerica.org).

BASIC COMPOSTING TIPS by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy

nsure that the compost pile retains a moisture content similar to a wrung-out sponge. To moisten, add green waste; to reduce moisture, add brown waste. Turn compost to get air to the aerobic bacteria and speed the process. Wear gloves and a dust mask to protect against allergens. Decay generates heat, so a pile should feel warm. If not, add green waste. Decomposition occurs most efficiently when it’s 104 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit inside the pile; use a compost thermometer. Keep a small container in the kitchen to easily collect green food scraps. Store it in the freezer to keep unpleasant smells and flies at bay. The best time to start composting is during warmer months. Alternately layering green and brown waste, using the “lasagna method” in colder months, readies the pile to decompose as soon as the weather warms. Consider stockpiling summer yard waste ingredients. Be aware that low-maintenance composting won’t kill weed seeds, which can then get spread around the garden. A highly managed compost pile will kill some weeds through the generated heat. Put weeds out for municipal yard waste collection where there’s a better chance they’ll be destroyed.

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Contributing sources: U.S Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Composting Council

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March 2015

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Mind Gardening It Pays to Watch What Is Planted by Dennis Merritt Jones

n unattended mind is like a neglected garden. Potting soil is incredibly receptive to any seeds introduced to it. It has absolutely no discretion when it comes to playing host to seeds; it says, “Yes” to all of them. So it is with our mind, which is amazingly receptive to whatever suggestions are dropped into it. It has been said that the subconscious mind cannot take a joke. Whatever is introduced to it, it takes as serious instruction to grow that thought-seed into a full-blown plant, be it a flower or a weed. When we pause to consider how many thought-seeds are blown, dropped or purposely planted in our mind on a daily basis, it may prompt us to tend to our mental garden with more regularity. These may come from media, negative conversation or overheard comments. The subconscious mind hears it all and

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takes it personally. The only way to avoid this type of mind pollution is to be consciously focused on what we want to have planted and growing in our flower box called life. It’s a 24/7 proposition to keep it weeded as thousands of mental seeds constantly pour in. A good full-time gardener plants thought-seeds about their self and others that are rooted in reverence and loving-kindness and skillfully nurtures them. Others will then receive nothing but benefit from the seeds we drop along the way. Dennis Merritt Jones, D.D., is the author of Your Re-Defining Moments, The Art of Uncertainty and The Art of Being, the source of this essay. He has contributed to the human potential movement and field of spirituality as a minister, teacher, coach and lecturer for 30 years. Learn more at DennisMerrittJones.com.

A WALK IN NATURE IS A PATH TO PROGRESS

Explore New Territory advertise in Natural Awakenings’

April Nature’s Wisdom & Healthy Home Issue

Conscientious consumers are seeking Earth-friendly providers like: • Earth-Friendly Landscapers • Eco-Interior Designers • Electric Vehicle Dealers • Energy-Saving Equipment • Green Builders • Lighting Consultants • Organic Bedding Stores • Plant Care Specialists • Recycling Services • Solar Panel Providers • Wood Alternative Sources • Xeriscapers — and many more leading suppliers

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Earth Diet has helped them heal ailments from A to Z.

The Earth Diet Liana Werner-Gray on Simple Eating by Lane Vail

How did you discover the Earth Diet?

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Six years ago, I was completely addicted to junk food and chronically sick, tired, bloated and miserable. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed with a golf-ball-sized precancerous tumor that I decided to take a serious

look at my life and make a change. I began to blog about my journey into self-healing through natural foods and my readers held me accountable to sticking with it. I also started creating healthy recipes that delivered my favorite junk food flavors so I didn’t feel deprived. Slowly, I stopped craving artificial junk foods and started craving natural versions of those flavors. Within three months, the tumor disappeared. I had demonstrated that I could undo the damage of toxic junk food by restoring proper nutrition into my cells and knew that by going back to nature, I could experience healing. Now people from around the world have testified that The photo by Roxxe NYC Photography

iana WernerGray, an Australian-born beauty queen, actress and environmentalist, lectures worldwide on healthy eating and is supported by a corps of nutrition coaches. Her book, The Earth Diet, describes a naturebased eating and lifestyle plan that has helped thousands realize greater vitality, harmony and peace.

Why is it important to define our eating plan? Everyone on the planet is on a diet; it’s just a matter of which one. Are you on a junk food diet or a disorderly eating diet? Most people deprive themselves at some point and end up binging later. Having a name for the lifestyle I wanted to live helped me commit to it. When you’re lost and disconnected from nature and your body, you need rules and guidelines. Day one, eat this; day two, eat that. The Earth Diet’s rules and guidelines helped me to break a disempowering addiction to junk food. After following the guidelines for a while, the whole lifestyle becomes natural and choices become easy.

How can busy people prepare and eat fresh foods more frequently? Try making a huge batch of smoothies or vegetable juice on a Sunday; put a few servings in the fridge and the rest in the freezer. Then, take one to work each day. Fresh is best, but a thawed frozen juice is better than nothing. Also, simplify eating. I grew up in Australia’s Outback, alongside aboriginal people that ate “mono foods”—singular, whole, raw foods sourced directly from nature, and they had slim, resilient and healthy bodies. Eating mono foods gives the digestive system a break; we feel energized because the body doesn’t have to break down a complicated meal. Try, for example, eating a watermelon for lunch or an avocado for dinner.

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Name some foods we’d be surprised to read about in The Earth Diet. My readers especially enjoy the chicken nuggets, burgers, gluten-free cookie dough, cashew cheesecake and vegan ice cream. The raw chocolate balls are popular, made with just three ingredients: almonds or sunflower seeds ground into flour, cacao powder and a favorite natural sweetener like maple syrup, honey or dates. Sometimes I add salt, mint, coconut or vanilla. I make a batch in 10 minutes and keep them in the freezer so I can have chocolate whenever I crave it.

Transforming the way we eat can be overwhelming; what are some simple first steps for the novice? Lemon water is incredibly powerful. It’s high in vitamin C, so it boosts the immune system, and it’s energizing, alkalizing and detoxifying. Just squeeze the juice of a lemon into two cups of water first thing in the morning and drink. I also recommend eating a whole, raw, mono food in its natural state every day, like a banana, orange or strawberries. Eat something that hasn’t been sliced, diced, processed and packaged. Lastly, practice eating only when hungry and eat what you’re craving in the most natural way possible (for example, upgrading from conventional pizza to organic store-bought brands to raw homemade pizza). On Sunday I woke up and made a big brunch for friends; we had organic eggs, salsa, herbal tea and organic cookies. For dinner, I ate an avocado. That’s all I was craving, and it ended up balancing out my day. If you’re craving chocolate, there’s a reason. If you’re craving a smoothie for dinner, have one. You can both fulfill cravings and nourish and love your body at the same time. Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

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Eat Fresh. Buy Local.

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

FARMERS' MARKETS

RESTAURANTS & BAKERIES

CHASING FRESH MARKET

SUNFLOWER CAFE I

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-517-5800 • ChasingFresh.com 8am-5pm, Mon-Sat; 11am-2pm, Sun

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

Now located in Windmill Market. The only produce market in South Alabama where everything is grown, raised and made in Alabama. Produce, honey, dairy, grains, seafood and meat. Organic and hydroponic options. Delivery available. See ad, page 7.

MARKET ON THE HILL & MARKET ON THE SQUARE

Lavretta Park and Cathedral Square, Mobile 251-208-1550 • SpecialEventsMobile.org Spring/Summer Market on the Square in Cathedral Square, downtown Mobile: Saturdays, April 25-July 25 and the Fall Market on the Square: Saturdays, October 10-November 21. Spring/Summer Market on the Hill: Lavretta Park on Thursdays, May 21July 30.

PRODUCE CLUBS WINDMILL MARKET'S PRODUCE CLUB

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-990-8883 • Info@WindmillMarket.org A weekly delivery of local and seasonal fruits, veggies, organic milk, cheese, grass-fed beef and more delivered from Baldwin County farms to your table every week! Six box sizes to fit your family's needs. Home delivery and Mobile pickup option also available!

GROCERY STORES FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad, page 3.

VIRGINIA'S HEALTH FOODS 3055 A Dauphin Street, Mobile 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store featuring local products: organic produce, meat, eggs, honey and soap. See ad, page 3.

Organic cafe serving lunch Mon-Sat, dinner ThursFri and Sunday brunch. Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu online. See ad, page 3.

SUNFLOWER CAFE II

3055 A Dauphin Street, Mobile 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com Organic cafe and juice bar. Local produce, herbs and meats used. Menu online. See ad, page 3.

SWEET OLIVE BAKERY & CAFE 85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 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!

U-PICK FARMS WEEKS BAY PLANTATION

12562 Mary Ann Beach Road, Fairhope 251-279-UPIK (8745) WeeksBayPlantation.com Weeks Bay Plantation/LA Berry Farms is the new destination of choice for pick-your-own blueberry enthusiasts. Fifteen varieties of fully organic berries! The picking season runs April-June. See ad, page 9.

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March 2015

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by Leslie Perry Duffy

e’ve heard them time and time again: fitness tips that guarantee we’ll meet our goals if we follow them. The truth is that some can hurt more than help. Here are seven fitness myths that are best to ignore. No pain, no gain. It’s true that what we put into our workout has a direct impact on results. However, this doesn’t mean workouts should be painful. If something hurts during exercise, try a different move instead that targets the same muscle group to see if the feeling persists; adjust the form in case improper execution is the culprit or give it a rest and return when ready. Muscle soreness can be expected after a tough workout and can persist for a day or two afterward. Try not to confuse soreness or the discomfort felt from fatigued muscles during a workout with pain. In the presence of an injury, it’s often best to modify activities that contribute to the pain or refrain from workouts pending expert medical ad-

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vice. “Working through the pain” might actually make things worse in the long run. Never exercise a sore muscle. Muscle soreness is a sign that the muscles are changing. It’s okay to feel sore for a day or two after a workout. If it appears that the body’s stability or ability to maintain proper form will be affected by the soreness, then wait another day. However, if soreness isn’t severe, working out may actually help to relieve it by warming the muscles and stimulating blood flow. A few good activity choices for sore muscles after lifting heavy weights the day before include light cardio, stretching, yoga and light resistance training. Lifting weights makes women look bulky. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Building big, bulky muscles requires testosterone—and lots of it. Men typically have 20 to 30 times more testosterone than women. For women, strength training is well-known to be key in toning and sculpting muscles,

maintaining healthy joints and bones, boosting metabolism and even improving mood and confidence. Don’t be afraid to pick up heavier weights. To lose a belly, crunch the abs. Yes, abdominal exercises strengthen the core muscles. However, if we carry a layer of fat on top of those muscles, the belly will remain. To lose a belly, continue regular ab work while focusing on cardio exercises, strength training moves for the whole body and eating properly. The best time to work out is in the morning. The best time to work out is whenever it fits into our schedule. The more exercise, the faster the results. Not true. When it comes to working out, an appropriate balance of hard work and rest is the best option. Overusing the body actually prevents muscles from growing, resulting in decreased strength, endurance and metabolism (i.e., caloric burn). Plus, becoming overly fatigued often leads to sloppy form, which may lead to injury. Listen to the body and rest at least one day a week or more if a break is needed. Reduce calorie intake to lose weight. The body needs enough fuel to function, especially if it is regularly working hard. Eating less is not always the answer to losing weight. If we’re not eating enough, the body may think it’s starving, which causes it to store fat instead of burning calories, so eating too infrequently or not enough can sabotage weight-loss efforts. Eating smaller, more frequent meals allows the body to metabolize calories more effectively. Leslie Perry Duffy is a FIRM workout program master instructor and entrepreneur in Columbia, SC, who contributes to Life.Gaiam.com from which this was adapted.

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March 2015

unexpected part is often the expansive thrill of exploring a foreign culture. “On a normal day, after a delicious Indian breakfast, my host’s siblings and I would ride the bus to school. There, we learned Indian dance, art, cooking and many other aspects of the culture,” says 16-year-old Genna Alperin, who traveled to India with Greenheart Travel in 2014 (GreenheartTravel.org). “I learned how to communicate, share my lunch and be a good friend. When I returned, I wanted to be like the amazing people I had met.” The Chicago organization facilitates language camps, service trips and study abroad programs for high school students.

healthykids

Learn to Speak Like a Local

A Teen’s Guide to the Cultural Galaxy Foreign Locales Spark Deep Experiences by April Thompson

ummer is a perfect time for teens to broaden their horizons—mentally, emotionally, socially and literally— through foreign travel, and now is a good time to sign up. Programs enable young adults to explore different cultures and careers, learn to work effectively in multicultural arenas, serve communities in need and see the value of conserving resources, all while enjoying safe adventures away from home. “Teens can have fun, gain new perspectives and get out of their comfort zones in a supportive environment,” says Theresa Higgs, vice president of global operations for United Planet (UnitedPlanet. org). The Boston nonprofit annually places

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

more than 300 youths in 35 countries in programs ranging from environmental conservation to teaching English. “We’ve had alumni return to start their own nonprofit organizations, change majors or even just change daily habits like turning off the water when they brush their teeth after learning about water scarcity issues,” says Higgs. Programs range from language immersion, in which students are matched with host families, to studies aboard ships where they engage in marine conservation activities. Whatever the activity, teens are sure to be challenged and inspired in ways they couldn’t have envisioned before venturing forth. The most

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Immersion can be both the fastest and most fun way to learn a language. Language study abroad programs steep students in foreign tongues in memorable settings that help accelerate learning, whether practicing Spanish in the coffeegrowing highlands of Costa Rica or Mandarin in China’s bustling city of Beijing. Many programs place students with host families where they can practice the language informally and deepen their understanding of local idioms, complementing classroom lessons from native teachers. Homestays also offer students an insider’s view of the regional culture, from cuisine to family life. Students can elect to learn an entirely new language with no prior exposure or build on beginner-level proficiency. Some programs even enable high school students to earn college credits.

Study Earth’s Underwater Vastness Action Quest, in Sarasota, Florida, takes teens on seafaring voyages from the Florida Keys to the Caribbean, where they can learn to sail or scuba dive, study marine life and engage in projects to help restore coral reefs and protect sea turtle habitats (ActionQuest.com). Participants gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s fragile and complex ecosystems and knowledge of winds and tides. Acting as crew members, teens also learn teamwork and confidencebuilding skills.

Explore Careers as an Intern Internships offer teens a chance to test potential career paths, gain resume-worthy work experience and strengthen college applications. While many internships target college students, an increasing number are open to high school students with companies, nonprofit organizations and government agencies nationwide and abroad. Fields can range from accounting, law and engineering to nonprofit work. AIESEC (aiesec.org), an international, student-run organization headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, works with partners ranging from multinational companies to local nonprofits to offer opportunities in 126 countries for youths interested in interning abroad.

perspectives and become responsible global citizens. Students can volunteer to teach English, build wells, restore historic sites or rebuild homes destroyed by natural disasters. Most service trips also include fun outings and options for learning about the host culture, such as learning traditional African dance or Thai cooking, or hiking the Inca Trail to the sacred site of Machu Picchu. Witnessing the challenges faced by developing communities to access basic needs like clean water and health care can be transformative. Being a small part of a solution can awaken young people to their power to change the world.

Serve Community, Discover Culture

Helpful clearinghouse sites for teen travel programs include TeenInk.com/summer and TransitionsAbroad.com/listings/ study/teen.

Whether headed to a destination in Africa, Asia or the Americas, community service trips help teens gain enlightened

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Best

Animals don’t lie. Animals don’t criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do. ~Betty White

MCI has an entire team dedicated to treating breast cancer.

he uer t g in conq er. The score has been well documented. d n i F c Breast cancer is the leading cancer to n t a killer among women in the U.S. o c Sh east But it’s very treatable when detected in its br early stages. That’s why USA Mitchell Cancer Institute

(MCI) does a full-court press on breast cancer, with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and other specialists—all working together to create individualized treatment plans to provide the most advanced and most comprehensive care possible. That’s how we’re beating cancer. Working together to provide a total package of care—groundbreaking research, state-of-the-art treatments, and prevention. All with one goal…to win.

Minds Conquering Cancer www.usamci.com 1660 Springhill Avenue Mobile, Alabama 36604 – 251-665-8000 –

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natural awakenings

March 2015

calendarofevents 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. TUESDAY, MARCH 3

Breast Friends Forever Breast Cancer Support Group – 5:30pm. Breast Friends Forever (BFF) breast cancer support group meets at Mitchell Cancer Institute on the 1st Tuesday of each month. Free. Mobile. For information or to join, contact Darlene Chavers: 251-631-3989.

FRIDAY, MARCH 6

Go Blue Day – Join the Mitchell Cancer Institute by wearing blue to support "Go Blue Day"--a national movement to help eradicate colorectal cancer by reminding others to get screened. Free. For more info: Kristen Van Buren 251-445-9647.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

Mushroom Workshop – 10am-12pm. Dr. Juan Mata, a mycology professor from USA, will host a mushroom workshop. Attendees should bring any specimens that are growing in their backyard, neighborhood, etc. that they are curious to have identified. Free. Biology Department, Room 131, University of South Alabama Campus, Mobile. 251-653-1617, ext 131. Kundalini Yoga Spring Renewal Series – Mar 7 and 14. 11am-12:15pm. Alleviate physical and mental stress. As taught by Yogi Bhajan, these exercises and meditations aim to improve physical health and vitality as well as mental focus. Come and revel in the experience! The Spring series will be completed in April. $15 per class. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. Synergyoga.net.

Arm Balances & Chaturanga 101 – 3-5pm. Doubt your doubts and move beyond the fear of arm balances with Brooke Nisbet, E-RYT200. Learn the ABC's of arm balances & chaturanga, while deepening and growing in mind and body. All levels welcome! Unheated. $25. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 10

markyourcalendar Green Drinks Fairhope

Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks every second Tuesday. With a local drink in one hand and environmental concerns in the other, connect with other progressive people in our area. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks. Food sponsored by Sunflower Cafe.

March 10 • 5-7pm

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

markyourcalendar Cheap Chic Boutique

Shop for a good cause for Spring fashions plus prom and Easter dresses/suits. Designer and name-brand, new, nearly new, vintage items including shoes, purses, hats, jewelry and more! Sizes petite to plus at thrifty prices. All proceeds benefit Our Sisters' Closet. No entry fee.

March 13 • 10am-6pm March 14 • 9am-3pm

Sisters of Mercy Building, St Mary Church 1452 Old Shell Road, Mobile 251-423-2001 • OurSistersCloset@comcast.net

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

Usui Reiki Level I Certification Weekend w/Julie – Mar 14-15. 10am-5:30pm. Making life changes? Take this Reiki class to connect with Universal Life Force used for healing emotionally, mentally and physically. In class you will get hands on experience, Level I for self-healing, Level II for working with others. Beginners welcome. $300 prepaid/$350 at door. Reiki Center of Fairhope, Fairhope. Julie: 251281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/earth-heart-reiki/.

Yoga Groove – 3-5pm. Let the music move you in this fun, energizing workshop with Rebecca Washburn, RYT-200. Experience your yoga practice in a whole new way through this blend of yoga and dance. All levels welcome. Unheated. $25 in advance/$30 at the door. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 16

Colorectal and Ostomy Support Group – 5:30pm. 3rd Mondays. Free. Mobile Infirmary Wound Care Center, 1721 Springhill Ave, Mobile. For info or to join, contact Barbara Phillips: 770-312-8638 or Barbara@PhillipsAndCompany.com.

PLANS CHANGE!

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

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

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

Colorectal and Ostomy Support Group – 5:30pm. 3rd Tuesdays. Free. Thomas Hospital Medical Bldg, Ste 400, Fairhope. For info or to join, contact Barbara Phillips: 770-312-8638 or Barbara@ PhillipsAndCompany.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

markyourcalendar Green Drinks Mobile

Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks every third Wednesday. With a local drink in one hand and environmental concerns in the other, connect with other progressive people in our area. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks.

March 18 • 5-7pm

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

ART Reiki/Master Teacher – Mar 18, 20 & 25.10am5:30pm. Three weekdays for advanced Reiki training (ART) and master teacher training. Preq: Reiki Level I & II. Completing these three days you will have the tools to teach Reiki classes. Class details/fees: MoonSunEarth.com/reiki.html. $850 at door/prepaid $800. Reiki Center of Fairhope, Fairhope. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail.com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/earth-heart-reiki/.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21

Being Well Expo – Mar 21-22. 10am-6pm. This expo will focus on mind, body and spirit. We’ll have a variety of vendors, authors and private practitioners under one roof to educate, experience, sample and entertain its patrons on matters of the mind, body and spirit. $7. DoubleTree Hotel, 2150 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Kenner, LA 70062. 504-708-8353. BeingWellExpo@gmail.com. BeingWellExpo.com. Noah's Animal Refuge Adoption Event – 10am. We will have some of our great pups along with educational literature. Free. Pet Supplies Plus-Hillcrest, Mobile. Jacki Armstrong: 251-408-2345.

SUNDAY, MARCH 22

Learn to Fly! – 2-4pm. Take your arm balance practice to the next level with Brooke Nisbet, E-RYT200. Learn how to move into more advanced arm balances with strength and ease. Recommended for advanced beginners and beyond. Unheated. $25. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 24

Navigating Cancer: Resources Available at MCI – 12pm. Monthly Educational Support Group. Facilitated by Cathy Tinnea, Patient Navigation; Elise Labbe-Coldsmith, PhD, Psychological Support; Julie Estis, PhD, Speech Pathology Support; Austin Cadden, MPH, Clinical Trials. Free. Mobile. RSVP Kristen Van Buren: 251-445-9647.

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

Animal Care with Young Living Essential Oils – 6:30-8:30pm. If you desire to care for your pets with all natural non-invasive means, then join us as Tammy Jones shares how Young Living may be the perfect fit to help support your pet’s well-being! Learn how to use essential oils on animals safely. $5 at the door. Prodisee Pantry, 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort. Tammy Jones: 850-259-5711. AHealthyChange4All@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

Low Cost Spay Neuter Clinic – 8am. We will have a vet at the refuge doing low cost spay/neuters all day. Noah’s Animal Rescue, 5050 Glenwood Rd, Wilmer, 36587. Jacki Armstrong: 251-408-2345.

Quantum-Touch Level One with Julie E Brent – Mar 28-29. 9:30am-5:30pm. Anyone can learn Quantum-Touch, no experience needed! You will see bones move before noon the first day and take

home a wonderful gift to share with yourself and others. 13 MT CEs included. QT enhances other modalities. QT homepage: QuantumTouch.com. $400 at the door/prepaid three weeks in advance $350. Reiki Center of Fairhope, Fairhope. Julie: 251-281-8811. ReikiCenterOfFairhope@gmail. com. ReikiCenterOfFairhope.com/earth-heartreiki/.

Advertise Your Massage Business on this page for $20/month! Call 251-990-9552 or email Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com for details.

FAIRHOPE BECKY ARDREY, LMT, E-RYT Be Happy... Be Well Health & Lifestyle Center 251-455-9359 BeHappy-BeWell.com REIKI CENTER OF FAIRHOPE Chester Schmidt, LMT: 251-359-0500 Julie E Brent, LMT: 251-504-5328 4 Beach Rd, Stress Management Kiosk ReikiCenterofFairhope.com ROSIE BLUUM (DOWNTOWN) Kristen Kelly, LMT 6A South Bancroft Street 251-599-5943 • 251-517-5626 RosieBluum.com See ad, page 19. THRIVE YOGA & MASSAGE Billie Reinhart, RYT, LMT 811 Fairhope Avenue 251-379-4493 ThriveFairhope.com

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

LOXLEY TINY DOVE MASSAGE THERAPY Jessica Fowler, LMT TinyDove.MassageTherapy.com By Appointment Only: 251-776-3947

MOBILE ALABAMA HEALING ARTS 6304 Cottage Hill Road 251-753-1937 Info@AlabamaHealingArts.com AlabamaHealingArts.com See ad, page 31.

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

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

SPANISH FORT JOURNEY’S RELAXATION MASSAGE Shelley M. Freeman, LMT Inside of Snap Fitness Health Club 6450 Highway 98, Suite E 251-303-5745 NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit www. TinyURL.com/NANCard for details.

natural awakenings

March 2015

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ongoingevents

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

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 and 3055 A Dauphin St, Mobile. VAFairhopeHealthFoods.com.

Soul Shine $5 Hot Power Hour – 8am. 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. $5 drop in. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com. Center for Spiritual Living Service – 10am. Make every step, every choice, every word, a conscious one. Center for Spiritual Living, 1230 Montlimar, Mobile. Rev. Sherrie Quander: 251-343-0777. CenterForSpiritualLiving-Mobile.org.

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. 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. UUFM.org. Sunday Worship – 11am. Celebrate Spirit in this special and sacred space. Between Hillcrest and Knollwood. Unity Mobile, 5859 Cottage Hill, Mobile. 251-661-1788. AHA Afternoon Yoga – 1pm. Mar 8 & 22. Explore body-mind-spirit while promoting balance and wellness within. Eclectic yogic elements en-

sure variety and fun; traditional foundations ensure proper body alignment and safety. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/text to register. $10 per class, 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-753-1937. Info@ AlabamaHealingArts.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

monday Mindful Movement – 9:15am. Unwind your morning with a beginner friendly mindfully moving yoga practice ending in restorative yoga positions. Practice among Himalayan salt lamps and waterfalls. $10 donation. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com.

Soul Shine Power Vinyasa – 9:30am. Mon-Sat. An invigorating vinyasa flow that will build strength, increase flexibility, strengthen your core and transform your body and mind. Find your groove, shine your light and practice at your own level. 75 minutes. Heated. $15 drop in. Packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com. Group Reformer Class – 12pm. Catch the wave of classical fitness and join Adrienne during your day 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. 251-473-1104. 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

Outstretched Christ-Centered Yoga Class – 5:45pm. Also at 8:15am on Wed. Each week Pneuma offers two donation-only yoga classes open to the public. Classes are appropriate for all levels and include a Christ-centered devotion. Donation only. 1901 Main St, Daphne. See website for more info: Pneuma-Yoga-Movement.com. Bridging the Great Divide – 6-8pm. The Family Center is offering a new class designed 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, Suite 100, Mobile. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-479-5700. FamilyCenterMobile.org.

Soul Shine Power Vinyasa – 6pm. Mon, Tues, Thurs. An invigorating vinyasa flow that will build strength, increase flexibility, strengthen your core and transform your body and mind. Find your groove, shine your light and practice at your own level. 75 minutes. Heated. $15 drop in. Packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife.com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.com. Together We Can – 6-8pm. The Family Center offers this class to help parents build a better future for their children by working together as co-parents. It is open to couples regardless of their relationship. Become a team that supports your family's success. Free. 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. Christie Brannon: 251-626-1610. BaldwinFamilies@gmail.com. FamilyCenterMobile.org.

tuesday Sunrise Yoga with Linda – 6am. The days are getting longer and Spring is finally around the corner. Jump start the morning and get refreshed--join Linda for some energizing and revitalizing yoga to charge the body, ease stress and focus the mind. Also on Thursdays w/Chris G. Synergy Yoga &

JOIN HANDS FOR EARTH DAY Advertise in Natural Awakenings’

April Earth Day Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call 251-990-9552. natural awakenings

March 2015

classifieds Fee for classified listings is $1 per word. Email Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet. com for details. Volunteer opportunities are listed for free as space is available. OPPORTUNITIES BECOME A PUBLISHER – Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin is for sale! The current owners are looking for passionate individuals that want to make a difference in our local community. Meaningful, homebased career opportunity with a proven business system. Exceptional franchise training and support available. Be in business for yourself but not by yourself. 239-530-1377. NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine. See ad, page 22. LMTS, TEACHERS NEEDED – Mobile wellness center seeks compassionate, mindful, self-motivated massage therapists and yoga/movement/meditation/CE class/ workshop instructors. 251-753-1937. Email resume to Info@AlabamaHealingArts.com.

VOLUNTEER OPPS AZALEA CITY CAT COALITION – Volunteers needed in any capacity. Contact Susan Young: 251-648-7582. SusanYoung@ AzaleaCityCats.org. DOG RIVER CLEARWATER REVIVAL STORM DRAIN MARKER PROJECT – Volunteers needed to educate the public about the storm drain system. Supplies and instructions provided. Work at your convenience. Contact Janet Miller: J46Miller@yahoo.com. 251-654-1827. MERCY MEDICAL – Hospice volunteers needed to provide services such as running errands, offering respite breaks for caregivers and clerical assistance. 251-621-4431. Volunteers@MercyMedical.com.

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Mobile / Baldwin Edition

Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

La Leche League Mobile Bay Area – 10:30am. La Leche League meetings are open to all women with an interest in learning about and supporting breastfeeding. Meetings are always free and babies/children are welcome. 251-689-2085. For location information or breastfeeding help contact AmandaLLLMobile@ yahoo.com or MeghanLLL@yahoo.com.

Grief Recovery Meeting – 1-2:30pm. This is a Christian-based grief recovery program for all losses. Experienced, professional and compassionate staff members support you through the grief process with the goal of transitioning into a renewed life of purpose and fulfillment. Ascension Funerals & Cremations, 1016 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile. 251-6348055. AscensionFuneralGroup.com. Soul Shine Power Hour – 4:30pm. Tues & Thurs. 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, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife. com. TheSoulShineLife@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. Sponsorship, speaking and catering opportunities available. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks. Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Ave, Fairhope. 251-279-7517. MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com. Facebook. com/MobileBayGreenDrinks.

Pilates Combo Class – 5:15pm. Join Dana and use controlled movement to develop core strength, increased flexibility and improved posture. A variety of mat exercises will be combined with work on the Reformer and EXO Chair to develop and challenge the core. Reservations are required. Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net. Yin Yoga with Cindy Johnson – 5:30pm. Experience yin yoga, a blissful and meditative evening of gentle stretching that focuses on your joints and muscle tissue. Yin yoga is gentle and nurturing, bringing balance to an active lifestyle. A perfect way to ease into yoga. All welcome. $10. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope. 251-517-5626. Info@RosieBluum.com. RosieBluum.com. Sierra Club Meeting – 6-8pm. 1st Tues. Open to the public. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort. Pranic Healing Clinic and Meditation – 6:30pm. Headaches, stress, any physical or emotional ailments bothering you? Come experience healing for your mind, body and soul followed by the Meditation on Twin Hearts. We all have the ability to heal ourselves and others. Classes also available. Donation. Mobile. 251-454-0959.

Guided Meditation – 7pm. Go within. Release thoughts, concerns and worries as you relax into the peaceful state that is your true nature. Let us guide you to tranquility and freedom of mind. Your only requirement is to listen, allow, be open and bring your imagination. $5. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope. 251-5175626. Info@RosieBluum.com. RosieBluum.com. Meditation on Twin Hearts – 7:30pm. In this universal meditation we become a conduit of divine blessings and world service to the planet and humanity by blessing with peace, love, joy and goodwill. It's an advanced meditation for achieving illumina-

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tion or universal consciousness. Donation. Mobile. 251-454-0959.

wednesday Yoga with Susan – 8am. Join Susan Kangal and enjoy 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... aaaah! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

$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. 251-379-4493. ThriveFairhope.com. AHA Integrative Yoga – 9:30am. Wed & Fri. Attain inner peace, relieve stress and build strength/ flexibility through body-mind awareness, breath and postures. Includes healing techniques like affirmations, mudras, chakra balancing and guided/ silent meditations. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. $10 per class, 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-753-1937. Info@AlabamaHealingArts.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

Positive Parenting – 9:30-11:30am. The Family Center offers 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. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-479-5700. FamilyCenterMobile.org. Free Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis – 10:30am. This chair yoga class is free to participants and funded by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Build strength and flexibility while improving balance and circulation. Fairhope. Thrive@ThriveFairhope.com. 251-379-4493.

Green Drinks Mobile – 5-7pm. Every 3rd Wed. Join us for an informal yet engaging happy hour with like-minded folks. With a local drink in one hand and environmental concerns in the other, connect with other progressive people in our area. Sponsorship, speaking and catering opportunities available. Open to the public. Free to attend except the cost of your drinks. Alchemy Tavern, 7 S Joachim St, Mobile. 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. Family, friends and caregivers are always welcome. Weezer: 251-928-7606.

AHA Evening Yoga – 5:45pm. Mar 11. Give your spirit the gift of a monthly tune-up by improving posture, muscle-tone, strength & flexibility, establishing core strength, refreshing the mind and restoring healthy balance. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/text to register. $10 per class,

PLANS CHANGE!

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-753-1937. Info@ AlabamaHealingArts.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com. 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). 251-340-8565. lbrlumin@aol.com. IANDS.org.

Soul Shine Slow Flow – 6pm. Slow down and experience transformation and empowerment at any level. A slower paced vinyasa class linking breath to movement. Beginners can find their place on the mat and experienced practitioners will gain a new perspective. 75 minutes. Unheated. $15 drop in. Packages available. Soul Shine Yoga, 103-B N Bancroft St, Fairhope. TheSoulShineLife.com. TheSoulShineLife@gmail.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. Call 251-479-5700 to register for next class. Guided Meditation – 7pm. Guided meditation with Betsey Grady. Meditation is a wonderful way to quiet the mind, still the body and relax your being. $5. Rosie Bluum, Fairhope. 251-517-5626. RosieBluum.com.

thursday Yoga with Dana – 10am. Take a break before lunch. Join Dana and let breath and body move in sync as her

seamless style transforms the body, relieves stress and relaxes the mind. Leave feeling on top of the world and really enjoy the glory of the day! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

Dynamic Dads – 7-9pm. The Family Center is the site of the Mobile County Fatherhood Initiative. Six Thursday night classes delve into the importance of fathers and how to meet the challenges of being the father your children need--A super hero for your super kid! Free. 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. Lydia Pettijohn: 251-479-5700. FamilyCenterMobile.org.

friday AHA Qigong – 11:30am. Mar 13 & 27. Beautiful ancient Chinese healing art promotes balance and well-being. Combines slow, repetitive movement with breath techniques and meditation. Includes basic eight silk brocade movements and balance-walking meditation. Beginner-friendly. Call/text to register. $10 per class, 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-209-3714. Info@ AlabamaHealingArts.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com. AHA Bi-Monthly Supervised Student Massage & Reiki Clinic – Mar 6 & 20. 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. Appointment only. Appointments at 4:30, 5:45 & 7pm. $25 for 1-hr full-body student massage and/or Reiki session. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-753-1937. Info@AlabamaHealingArts.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. 251-928-5363. HeartStringsYoga.com. Glorious Weekend Yoga – 9am. Join Beverley, Rhonda, Claire 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 day! Synergy Yoga & Pilates, Mobile. 251-473-1104. Synergyoga.net.

AHA Morning Yoga – 9:30am. Mar 7 & 21. Explore body-mind-spirit while promoting balance and wellness within. Eclectic yogic elements ensure variety and fun; traditional foundations ensure proper alignment and safety. Beginner-friendly. Props provided. Call/text to register. $10 per class, 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-753-1937. Info@AlabamaHealingArts. com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

AHA Qigong – 11:30am. Mar 21. Beautiful ancient Chinese healing art promotes balance & well-being. Combines slow, repetitive movement with breath techniques and meditation. Includes basic eight silk brocade movements and balance-walking meditation. Beginnerfriendly. Call/text to register. $10 per class, 12-classes for $100. Alabama Healing Arts, LLC, 6304 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile. 251-209-3714. Info@Alabama HealingArts.com. AlabamaHealingArts.com.

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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 2015 annual Healthy and Green Living Directory? Contact us to find out where you can pick up a copy of this expanded edition, or read it online at TinyURL.com/February15.

BEAUTY

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

B-BUTTERFLY SALON

103A North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 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 page 25. ad, CANCER CENTERS USA MITCHELL CANCER INSTITUTE 1660 Springhill Avenue, Mobile 188 Hospital Drive, Suite 400, Fairhope 251-665-8000 • usamci.com

At USA MCI, we combine leading-edge research with the most advanced diagnostic and treatment tools in order to provide the absolute best cancer care possible. See ad, page 33.

CHURCHES

KRISTEN KELLY, LMT

Rosie Bluum 6A S Bancroft Street, Fairhope 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 19.

L.A. ECOSMARTE LLC

Susan Nice: 251-709-7023 Dan Nice: 251-586-8250 LAEcoSmarte@att.net; LAEcoSmarte.com Non-salt, non-chlorine, chemical-free pool water t e c h n o l o g y. T h e b e s t alternative to chlorine and salt water pools. Easier to use, safer and more effective than traditional methods. See ad, page 13.

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 18.

DENTISTRY DR. DAYTON HART, DMD

IAOMT Protocol 225 West Laurel Avenue, Foley 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.

FENG SHUI FENGSHUI831

Meryl Hyderally, Feng Shui Design Consultant 251-463-1862 • Meryl@MerylHyderally.com fengshui831.com Utilizing feng shui principles, let us create an o rg a n i z e d a n d 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 11.

fengshui 831

CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING 1230 Montlimar Drive, Mobile 251-343-0777 CenterForSpiritualLiving-Mobile.org

ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS

R e v. S h e r r i e Quander invites you to visit a loving, inclusive spiritual community where we aim to make every step we take, every choice we make, every word we speak a conscious one. Sundays at 10 a.m. See ad, page 9.

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

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

Offering gifts and services that nurture your spirit. Books, card decks, essential oils, Bach Flower Remedies, crystals, salt lamps, incense and organic clothing. Local art, jewelry, honey, soaps and candles. See ad, page 19.

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

NAN cardholders receive discounts at these businesses. Visit www.TinyURL. com/NANCard for details. Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings here.

FOOD & NUTRITION CHASING FRESH MARKET

85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope 251-517-5800 • ChasingFresh.com 8am-5pm, Mon-Sat, 11am-2pm, Sun Now located in Windmill Market. The only produce market in South Alabama where everything is grown, raised and made in Alabama. Produce, honey, dair y, grains, seafood and meat. Delivery available. See ad, page 7.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

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

a week. See ad, page 3.

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 39 years. Store open 7 days

GREEN BUILDING MIKE KERR CONSTRUCTION LLC Certified Green Builder 251-391-4848 MikeKerrConstructionLLC.com

Live green, build green. Specializing in energy efficiency, reclaimed materials, low VOC paints and flooring. Residential new construction and remodeling. See ad, page 7.

SUN-INSPIRED ARCHITECTURE

Debbie Coleman, Architect, AIA, LEED GA 251-341-0509 • Interest08@SunPlans.com SunPlansGulfCoast.com Naturally bright spaces! Designing for delight, durability, comfort and lowenergy. Services range from simple consulting to detailed drawings – starting with your ideas or ours. New construction and renovations.

HEALING ARTS THE HEALTH HUT

680 S. Schillinger, Mobile: 251-633-0485 (Across from Home Depot) 6845 Hwy 90, Daphne: 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 19.

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

a week. See ad, page 3.

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 38 years. Store open 7 days

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 21.

SPIRIT ENLIGHTEN

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

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IT WORKS!

More than 13,000 Natural Awakenings magazines are distributed to over 400 locations throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties. Reach our health- and ecoconscious readers.

MASSAGE THERAPY JEN ADAMS, LMT

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

or email Publisher@ HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.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.

natural awakenings

March 2015

Find Your Perfect Partner on NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

MEDITATION

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

BETSEY GRADY

Founder of Rosie Bluum 6A S Bancroft Street, Fairhope • 251-517-5626 BetseyGrady.com • RosieBluum.com Certified MARI® practitioner, Reiki master, meditation teacher and natural intuitive. Experience peace of mind, find clarity and reconnect with your own power by learning to go within. Group classes and one-on-one instruction available. See ad, page 19.

MIDDLE EARTH HEALING AND LEARNING CENTER

20205 Middle Earth Road, Citronelle 251-866-7204 • MiddleEarthHealing.com Middle Earth offers workshops on permaculture, r a i n w a t e r harvesting, graywater recycling, shiitake mushroom cultivation, composting, soil building, chemical-free gardening, aquaponics, real food, natural medicine making, reconnecting with Mother Earth and medicinal aromatherapy. See ad, page 21.

NETWORKING

TEA

GREEN DRINKS

ZEN TEA

251-279-7517 MobileBayGreenDrinks@gmail.com Facebook.com/MobileBayGreenDrinks 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 26.

GREEN DRINKS

Join for FREE! Visit NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

Pick up a copy of Natural Awakenings here.

A tea shop offering premium tea, herbs and tea accessories from around the world. Uplift your energy and spirit and experience all the healthy benefits of tea. (Location: corner of Highways 64 and 181)

WATER FILTER SYSTEMS

PAST LIFE REGRESSION THERAPY

L.A. ECOSMARTE LLC

Susan Nice: 251-709-7023 Dan Nice: 251-586-8250 LAEcoSmarte@att.net; LAEcoSmarte.com

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

10025 County Road 64, Suite 1, Daphne 251-391-0109 • ZenTeaFairhope@gmail.com LivingZenTea.com • Find us on Facebook

Counseling and Psychology • Hypnotist Rosie Bluum, Fairhope 251-928-1241 • Ellen2012@bellsouth.net Become curious about your soul's journey, resolve your past, release a family pattern, look for self-healing within the body or find meaning and purpose in your life with this gentle, safe and enlightening modality. See ad, page 19.

Premium water that is safe and sustainable for people and the planet. ECOsmarte treats all of your water, indoor and outdoor, with a chemical-free water purification system. See ad, page 13.

Make our community a little GREENER... Support our advertisers. For every $100 spent in locally owned businesses, $68 returns to the community.

source: the350project.net

Mobile / Baldwin Edition

www.HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com

I found it — The Secret to Anti-Aging!

My cholesterol dropped by 73 points in 1 month, my husband’s morning blood sugar level dropped from 200 to 113 in 3 months, and we are feeling and looking so much YOUNGER! A few months ago, my husband’s blood sugars were out of control after years of controlling it with diet. And his skin had taken on a yellowish-grey pallor… which showed me that his liver and kidneys were also in serious trouble. I was scared! A friend stopped by, took one look at Charles, and said, “We have to get him on the Micronized Heart of Royal Purple Rice immediately!” Although I had never heard of it, I quickly said, “Get me some now.” I am so grateful that I did! Within 3 weeks his skin was pink and glowing and he was feeling so much better. I also began eating it and began noticing more energy, sounder sleep, and improved skin.

Kare & Charles Possick

It is so tiny and powerful that when you eat it … it does not even have to go through your digestive system — it can immediately go into the cells and energize them! Like tiny arrows, these highly charged alpha glucan chains of super nutrients can pierce cell walls and furnish the mitochondria (the cell’s battery) with fuel to create massive amounts of ATP Light Energy, so that the cells can recharge, regenerate, and function at the highest level.

Recharge, Repair, and Regenerate Your Cells

We had our blood tested and after eating this rice product for only a month, my cholesterol had dropped by 73 points! I had been taking several other natural supplements for two years to lower cholesterol to no avail, but after only one month my cholesterol dropped to normal, as did my triglycerides, and three other blood markers that had been way too high. My doctor was shocked. He said no drug would give me those quick and dramatic results! And Charles, with several medical conditions, had 10 blood markers drop significantly! My doctor said he knew of nothing that could work like that across so many body systems! “Not drugs...but real foods,” I said.

The reason so many people who are eating well and taking good supplements are still sick is ... nutrition can’t get into the cell! A recent medical study showed — more than 80% of the population is insulin resistant at some level That means that the sugars and nutrients we need for energy cannot get into the cells. (If a cell phone battery cannot be recharged — it powers down and eventually dies). If you are tired, and have dis-eases that have names … your cells are also powering down and dying. When the sugars (polysaccharides) can’t get into your cells to be used for energy, they cause another problem, too. They float around your blood stream, sticking to proteins and fats—or “glycating”. Wherever they stick they cause problems … if they stick in the bloodstream they cause hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure, in the brain they cause learning and memory issues or dementia, in the eyes—cataracts, in the skin—wrinkles. With my raw natural product you can recharge your cells and reverse the glycation and aging now!

What’s In This Product and How Does It Work?

Read What This Has Done For My Friends ...

The basis of the product is a ancient, heirloom strain of royal purple rice that is now grown in Thailand in a pristine valley that has never seen chemicals, pesticides, or GMO’s. Then, the purple husk, which is extremely high in anthocyanin antioxidants, along with the very heart of the rice (the endosperm) is removed—this is the part that carries the super polysaccharide sugars and polypeptide amino acid building blocks. Everything else is discarded. With only the dense nutrient rice heart left — this is then milled down to the size of a micron! That’s it—that is all that’s in this amazing raw natural product.

When I shared this with my friend, Bonnie, her body used the new cellular energy to reduce her blood pressure and smooth the wrinkles from her face. Nicole’s intense pain from an accident is gone and she is off her debilitating medications. Jeff is no longer experiencing acid reflux or gout. Dee Dee’s night blindness is gone and so are her allergies. Charles morning blood sugars have dropped from 200 to 113. I am looking so much younger that someone asked me if I had a ‘procedure’ done! Even my granddaughter’s dog has gotten rid of his digestive issues because of this product. So … would you like to see what this amazing food will do for you?

It takes 60 pounds of Royal Purple Rice to make ONE Pound of my product.

Call me (Kare) at: 727-798-8764 I’ll send you my FREE book, answer all your questions, and get this product on its way to you so you can begin anti-aging, too!

But What Really Got My Attention…

www.KaresPurpleRiceProducts.com

A Celebrated Family Tradition for 30+ Years Waterfront Seafood Dining

Locals love ou

Fresh Salad Bar

FREE SALAD BAR

with your minimum single entree purchase of $9.95 or more. No Take Outs Available. Must present coupon for offer. COUPON NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER COUPONS, DISCOUNTS OR SPECIALS. Coupon Valid Monday thru Thursday Expires April 15, 2015.

GREEN is not just for dinner In 2014, the Eastern Shore Chamber officially honored the Original Oyster House as its environmental award winner.

In 2010, the restaurants started converting used frying oil into Bio Diesel to fuel company vehicles. In 2012, a wind turbine was installed to generate electrical power.

In 2013, solar water heaters were installed at both restaurant locations.

Mobile Causeway 3733 Battleship Pkwy/Hwy 98 251.626.2188

Gulf Shores 701 HWY 59 251.948.2445