H E A L T H Y
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L I V I N G
H E A L T H Y
P L A N E T
feel good • live simply • laugh more
Fearless Eating
How to Move Past Food Sensitivities
Silencing
Cyberbullies
How to Defuse Bad Actors
Holistic
Eye Care
Taking the Whole Body into Account
March 2017 | South Houston/Galveston Edition | NA-SETexas.com
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S
o I receive a daily email from a great online source called Simple Reminders. They sent the quote I just loved recently: “Turn your wounds into wisdom.” – Oprah Winfrey I just loved this and wanted to share it with you. To me, it hits a really high note. People don’t often realized or recognize that as we progress through life, life happens! And often it can be quite unexpected. Circumstances and people can wound us either intentionally or unintentionally, but we are wounded all the same. Luckily our bodies are quite resilient when we work with them (through healthy eating, exercise and emotional positivity), so physically we can often heal quickly from wounds inflicted on our playground of life. But sometimes those emotional wounds can hurt far deeper and be much more challenging to heal. We don’t have as much ‘medicine’ for those that may be bought at the local drugstore, or ‘natural remedies’ we pick up at our local health food store. This is why I enjoyed this meme so much. Take those more deep wounds, and learn all you can from them, and don’t do it again – to the best of your ability! I have learned a LOT in recent years in working with this business, working with different people, with friends and family. So these few words provided me a little validation that maybe, I am on the right path taking the pains of recent years and various scenarios into learning, that will ensure my future is better than my past has been. Our New Year continues expanding, and with this March issue and the corresponding spring equinox (which is also Persian New Year) and Easter, I say again, Happy New Year!
contact us Publisher Roxanne Pirooz Editorial Manager Sara Blumenfeld Graphic Design & Layout Wendy Wilson Courtney Ayers Accounting Michele Valerio Administrative Manager Pat Delgado Sales & Marketing Roxanne Pirooz Natural Awakenings of Southeast Texas P.O. Box 3603, Houston, TX 77253 Phone: 409-939-8156 NA-SETexas.com Roxanne@NA-SETexas.com Follow us on: Facebook.com/nasetexas
©2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Print subscriptions are available by sending $28 (for 12 issues) to the above address.
Sending Spring Blessings!
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Roxanne, Smokey & Bandit Natural Awakenings is printed on recyclable paper with soy-based ink.
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newsbriefs globalbriefs eventbrief actionalert eventspotlight community spotlight fitbody consciouseating healingways healthykids greenliving naturalpet calendar classifieds resourceguide
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 FEARLESS EATING
How to Move Past Food Sensitivities by Kathleen Barnes
17 HELLO GYRO
Workouts Use Natural Body Patterns
14
by Aimee Hughes
18 THUMBS-UP ON FATS
Good Fat Doesn’t Make Us Fat by Judith Fertig
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 409-939-8156 or email Roxanne@NA-SETexas.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Info@NA-SETexas.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Info@NA-SETexas.com. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
NA-SETexas.com
20 HOLISTIC EYE
20
CARE
Taking the Whole Body into Account by Linda Sechrist
22 SILENCING
CYBERBULLIES
How to Defuse Bad Actors by April Thompson
24 FOREVER GREEN
Eco-Burial Options Grow by Avery Mack
27 NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS
Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies by Sandra Murphy
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newsbriefs Colon Hydrotherapy Now Offered in Galveston
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olon Hydrotherapy, also known as a colonic, is a method of removing waste from the large intestine, without the use of medication. By introducing filtered water into the colon, similar to a common enema, the waste is softened and loosened. Controlled water pressure provides hydration, which activates the natural muscular contraction that removes waste material out of the colon. The colon is an important organ of elimination and has been referred to as the sewer system of the body. The removal of waste can encourage better colon function and regular elimination. A healthy digestive tract helps support a healthy immune system. Colonics can also be used as a same-day prep for a colonoscopy or when otherwise prescribed. Ultimate Wellness Centre uses the Angel of Water, a premiere colon hydrotherapy FDA medical device. It’s a simple, safe, comfortable and hygienic way to irrigate the entire length of the colon. A typical session lasts about 40 minutes and feels like a normal bowel movement. Amanda Fryar, owner of Ultimate Wellness Centre in Galveston, is a Certified Lifestyle Educator and Certified Colon Hydrotherapist. She holds a Masters degree, is a graduate of Texas A&M University and is currently working on her board certification for a Certified Clinical Nutritionist. Location: 3622 85th St, Galveston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit UltimateWellnessCentre.com, info@ultimatewellnesscentre.com, or call 409-761-1224. See ad, page 9.
Gluten-Free, Cruelty-Free, Organic Beauty Products & More!
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oofy Organics Guide Felecia Hunt is now offering home demonstrations for groups interested in organic products that are made in the United States. The family owned and operated company based in New Jersey was founded in 2006 after a family member experienced a health crisis that prompted a drive to stop using products laden with chemicals. Finding few chemical-free options, they decided to create their own, and now offer over 500 products. All products are made in their certified organic facility and are non-GMO, gluten-free and cruelty-free. Many carry the USDA Organic seal, a complex and detailed process that must be renewed annually. Categories include natural makeup, baby products, body products, facial and hair care products, home fragrance and cleaning products, deodorant, pest protection and sun screens, and toxin-free nail polishes. Poofy Organics products are available online, at Felecia’s events in the Clear Lake area, or at Open Houses at her home every other month. These events and more are listed on her Facebook page and in her monthly newsletter. For a free catalog and lip balm, contact Felecia. For more information, call 832-226-6957, email organicfelecia@gmail.com, or visit OrganicFelecia.PoofyOrganics.com. Sign up for the newsletter at bit.ly/ PoofyNews. Events listed at Facebook.com/PoofyFelecia. See CRG, page 30.
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Cancer Causing Chromium 6 in Houston Water
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n late November, Channel 2 investigators reported that hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, has been found in high levels in Houston’s drinking water, with Houston ranking third in the country for high levels of this cancer-causing substance. Studies show that cancer rates start to rise at 0.02 ppb (parts per billion), and the City of Houston average is 0.75 ppb. One of the few ways to remove chromium-6 from your drinking water is through a reverse osmosis system. Reverse osmosis works by pumping water across a semi-permeable membrane, which removes chromium-6, arsenic, barium, copper, lead and fluoride. The upside to reverse osmosis is that it reduces more contaminants than the standard carbon filter. The downside to reverse osmosis is that it removes essential minerals. The Water Tree Store provides healthy and affordable water that has first gone through reverse osmosis to remove contaminants, and then through a second process to restore essential minerals while making the water alkaline. Alkaline water helps to raise the pH of your body so that it can function like it should and hydrate more efficiently. Located at 3538 E. NASA Parkway, Seabrook. Store hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 6pm, and Saturday 11am to 3:30pm. For more information, visit TheWaterTreeStore.com, follow watertreebythebay on Facebook, or call 281-917-1316. See ad, page 9.
Community Acupuncture Is Easy and Affordable
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he practice of community acupuncture is a grassroots movement intended to greatly increase access to acupuncture and widen its use in our increasingly complex health care system. In China, the community model is the traditional way of practicing acupuncture, so this helps to bring the community feel to the West. At Hooked on Acupuncture in Galveston, owner Clint McCallum has embraced this model to provide easy and affordable access to regular acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture has an overall effect of reducing stress and boosting normal function, so things like sleep, digestion, energy level, and mental clarity all tend to improve with regular treatments. It’s a great form of preventative care. Most people fall asleep when they get acupuncture and awaken rejuvenated and refreshed. Treatment starts with a private consultation to assess issues and develop a plan. The acupuncture sessions take place in the community room where the patient relaxes in a comfortable recliner. Payment on a sliding scale makes this accessible to almost everyone. Since Clint is also a certified health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, he also includes nutritional counseling as part of his service. Location: 2505 Market Street, Galveston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit HookedOnAcupuncture.com or call 409-241-3199. See ad, page 8.
Yoga Classes for Bone Health
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oga has been proven to improve osteoporosis, a disease of weak and thinning bones that make fractures more likely. Yoga is both an isometric and a weight bearing exercise, two important components in improving bone strength. This 4-week series at The Yoga Haven in Galveston trains students in specific yoga postures that serve to increase bone density in the spine, legs and hips when practiced regularly. The series was developed by Dr. Loren M. Fishman at Columbia University as a pilot study. The results pointed to improved posture and balance, as well as a decrease in falls and fractures. When practiced correctly, the series can be done in 12 minutes and can become the basis of a daily practice for bone health. Students receive training in the series and an outline of the postures and their benefits for reference. Location: 2507 Market St., Galveston. For more information, visit TheYogaHaven.net or call 409-770-9995. See ad, page 19.
NOW HIRING Massage Therapists
We Offer: Flexible Schedules & Steady Clientele We’re growing fast, booking in advance, we will keep you busy! Apply in Person, Fax or Email Resume to: Kemah 243 Marina Bay (FM 2094 & 146) Near Target, Behind Chili’s p: 281-535-3689 • f: 281-535-0205 Clinic0107@MassageEnvy.com
Beaumont 3970 Dowlen Rd, Suite B @ Dowlen & Folsom by Hobby Lobby p: 409-892-3689 • f: 409-347-8437 Clinic1242@MassageEnvy.com ME 3337 ME 2678
is nothing on TthishereEarth more to be prized than true friendship. ~Thomas Aquinas
natural awakenings
March 2017
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globalbriefs Botanical Breakthrough
Bukhanovskyy/Shutterstock.com
Oregano Oil Proves a Safe Antibiotic for Poultry In many large commercial chicken farms, the animals are fed antibiotics to keep them healthy and fight off infections. But due to consumer demand, McDonald’s has eliminated antibiotics used in human medicine from its entire restaurant chicken supply. Meanwhile, a farm in Pennsylvania owned by Scott Sechler is among the first to rely solely on a mix of oregano oil and cinnamon in the treatment and care of its chickens. In addition to being completely natural, oregano oil supplies the chickens with health advantages, producing a much higher quality of natural chicken in a far more humane method than that attained using antibiotics. Like antibiotics, the oil assists the chickens in battling any infections, reducing the number of birds lost to disease. Bob Ruth, president of another Pennsylvania farming business, has been testing oregano on his pigs for six months to see if it can outperform prescription antibiotics. Related problems arise when animals live in dirty conditions, making them more susceptible to infections and viruses, which can also be triggered by insufficient cleansing of slaughterhouses that must be hosed down and completely sanitized after each act of butchery. He thinks that drugs should not be a requirement if the farmers keep things tidy.
Bag Ban California Outlaws Single-Use Plastic Bags California’s ongoing ban on singleuse plastic carryout bags, approved by 52 percent of voters, is setting a notable precedent for other states. A coalition of environmental groups, grocers and others are collaborating, and Mark Murray, of Californians Against Waste, welcomes elimination of the 25 million plastic bags that pollute California every day, threatening wildlife. In 2007, San Francisco first banned plastic shopping bags, setting off a movement that led nearly half the state, including its biggest cities, to do the same. Although the legislature passed a statewide ban on plastic bags two years ago, paper bags are still for sale at grocery stores and other outlets for a nominal fee.
How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains. ~John Muir
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NA-SETexas.com
Pavel Kubarkov/Shutterstock.com
News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
eventbrief
Optimize Body Mind Spirit Connection Series
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hen body, mind, and spirit are working together optimally, the important areas of life are more enjoyable and flow with much more ease. This six week series will explore many unique ways to enhance that connection and transform stumbling blocks in to stepping stones. Each week participants will be introduced to and practice an energetic process such as EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), applied kinesiology, group drumming, and much more, that will provide highly effective tools for an improved life experience. This series will provide breakthroughs in the areas of weight and body image financial prosperity loving relationships life purpose The workshop begins Thursday March 16 and meets each Thursday through April 20 from 7:00-8:30 PM in the lounge at the Brookdale Senior Living Center, 780 W. Bay Area Blvd, Webster. The investment is only $99 (in advance) for the series, or $20 per session. For details and registration, visit DrummingTogether.org, call Sara Blumenfeld at 512659-6694 or email drumcircle@ drummingtogether.org. See CRG, page 21.
What’s In Your Water? Is it Safe to Drink? 6 reasons you need to filter your water 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Invisible Contaminants - The right kind of filter can take care of these harmful pollutants. PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals) - Reverse osmosis/granulated activated carbon filters remove PFCs. Fluoride - Fluoride is an endocrine-disrupting, neurotoxic, and bone-weakening substance. Chlorine - Easiest way to get the chlorine out of your water is by using a carbon-based filter. Taste – Minerals added to alkaline water improve the taste without the harmful containments. Bottled water isn't as good as you may think – not regulated by the EPA. Bottled water plants don't have the
same safety requirements as municipal water supplies. Bottled water is often just purified municipal water lacking in essential minerals.
Come visit Water Tree by the Bay to have your water tested and learn why
Aklaline Antioxidant Water is the Healthiest Water to Drink 3538 Nasa Parkway, Seabrook - 281.917.1316 TheWaterTreeStore.com - Facebook.com/WaterTreebytheBay
natural awakenings
March 2017
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Jessie Eldora Robertson/Shutterstock.com
actionalert Galveston G l t Bring B i the th Bag B Campaign C i and Beach Clean Up
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Clean Jeans Laundry Machines Boost School Attendance Kids in middle schools with attendance problems may simply lack clean clothes to wear. An experiment by the Whirlpool company has taken on the issue with significant results. The Whirlpool Care Counts Program donated 17 pairs of washers and dryers to school districts in St. Louis and Fairfield, California. Kids with attendance problems were asked to bring their laundry to be cleaned while they were in class. Each student had approximately 50 loads of laundry done at school during the year, and more than 90 percent increased their attendance, with at-risk students attending almost two more weeks in class. Whirlpool is now expanding the program. Compared to factors such as economic opportunity, unemployment and institutional racism, laundry might seem inconsequential, but for a 10-year-old facing stacked odds, having nothing clean to wear could be the deciding factor in whether or not they want to face their classmates that day. Seventh-grade teacher Alison Guernsey, in Fairfield, says, “One of my students had more or less withdrawn from school completely. After we started the program, he was more excited about coming and started to actively engage in class. He didn’t feel like an outsider anymore.”
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alveston Surfrider Foundation has teamed up with the Turtle Island Restoration Network to promote the Bring the Bag campaign, helping the City of Galveston work towards the reduction and elimination of single-use plastic bags in order to create a safer, healthier and cleaner environment. The Surfrider Foundation is a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans and beaches through conservation, activism, research and education. Turtle Island is a leading advocate for the world’s oceans and marine wildlife.
Did you know? • Reusable bags eliminate 22,176 single-use bags per person, per life time. • Plastics do not biodegrade, but instead break down into small particles that persist in the ocean, absorb toxins, and enter our food chain through fish, sea birds and other marine life. • Single-use plastic bags floating in the ocean look like a jellyfish (food) to a sea turtle and can kill the turtle if eaten. • States spend over $25 million annually to landfill discarded plastic bags, and public agencies spend more than $300 million annually in litter cleanup. • Single Use bags are a significant source of litter and contribute to flooding by getting stuck in storm drains. Several Texas cities have already banned single-use plastic bags, including Austin (2012), Brownsville (2010), Port Aransas (2014), Laguna Vista near South Padre Island (2012), and Eagle Pass (2017). A complete list of citywide bag bans by state can be found at BagLaws.com. Statewide legislation in Texas designed to prohibit and supercede local government bag bans failed to reach a vote in 2011, 2013 and 2015. The Texas NA-SETexas.com
Retailers Association has been issuing legal challenges (intent to sue) to cities such as Galveston that are set to vote on an ordinance to ban the bags in an attempt to scare them out of doing so. By subscribing to the email list at BringTheBag.org you can be kept informed of local efforts to eliminate single use plastic bags in Galveston such as “Bring the Bag” day or distribution of reusable bags.
Opportunities to get involved March 25: Ocean Discovery Day, 9am-3pm, NOAA Galveston Lab at Fort Crockett, 4700 Avenue U, Galveston. Volunteers are needed to talk with patrons about the effects of single-use plastics and to create reusable bags from T-shirts. Donate old T-Shirts at the Turtle Island Restoration Network offices located at 2228 Broadway. April 1: Beach Clean-up. Meet at 9am at the Ferry Landing on Bolivar Peninsula. April 22: Adopt-A-Beach clean-up. Volunteers needed at the information booth passing out literature, giving directions, helping with event set-up and tear-down, and cleaning the Surfrider adopted beach (Ferry Landing on Boliver). For more information, visit BringTheBag.org, GalvestonSurfrider.com, or SeaTurtles.org. Volunteers call 409-5028221 or email btbgalvestontx@gmail.com.
eventspotlight
Change Your Brain & Improve Your Life
10th Annual Women’s Conference
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he Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce presents this year’s 2017 Celebrating Women: Mind, Body, Spirit conference on April 6, 2017 at the Moody Gardens Convention Center. The conference features keynote speaker actress Marilu Henner, star of two classic sitcoms (Taxi & Shade), more than 30 films, six Broadway shows, been nominated for five Golden Globe awards, and New York Times bestselling author of over ten books on health, parenting, memory and lifestyle improvement. One of only twelve people documented with Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory, Marilu was the subject of a three part special on 60 Minutes, 60 Minutes Australia, numerous news programs and international news articles, and served as the consultant for the CBS series Unforgettable. Married with two sons, she practices a life of health and fitness. Her latest book, Changing Normal: How I Cured my Husband’s Cancer, became the number one book on Amazon the first day on the market. She will share her experience with hundreds of attendees at the conference. Connie Watt, Vice President of the Justin J. Watt Foundation and mother of Houston Texas J.J. Watt speaks about the value of giving back to the community and raising three upstanding sons, and prominent physicians from UTMB Health address topics of health and wellness that are of interest to today’s women. The event also includes a Vendor Market providing shopping for clothing, shoes, cosmetics, jewelry, unique gifts & more. As a sponsor, Natural Awakenings is offering a limited number of free Luxury Lounge upgrades to those who enter the promo code NATX when purchasing your ticket. For more information, visit GalvestonChamber.com/ Womens-Conference, or call 409-763-5326. See ad page 2.
Reduce Symptoms Without Medication. Learning Difficulties Behavior Disorders Anger Issues Dyslexia Depression Migraines Seizures Autism Anxiety Stress ADHD “Through neurofeedback and counseling sessions with Brain Changers, I have been able to see the walls of depression crumble and have seen my anxiety significantly reduced.”
Dr. Stephanie McClung, LCCT Christian Counselor Neurofeedback Provider
Talk with a Professional Today! 409.300.3117 3607 Broadway Avenue Galveston, Texas 77550 BrainChangers@gmail.com
www.GalvestonBrainChangers.com natural awakenings
March 2017
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Lisa and her staff help reframe the ffo oc Without pressure or judgement, focus. tthey he let the person know that it’s okay h to ttry new things, and they provide a w e wealth of ideas for ways of eating that are nourishing to the body. They help the pe er person think in terms of what they can ea at and suggest delicious replacements eat, fo or old but unhealthy favorites. They for eemphasize m that changing the way of eatin ng is a process, and one which they will ing su up support through encouragement, healthy foo o options, recipes, and classes. food
communityspotlight
Shop Natural Living Organic Food Co-Op to
EAT ALLERGEN FREE
F
ood allergies or sensitivity are a big deal to many people, as well as to their pets. Knowing what to eat, how to prepare it, and where to buy it can sometimes be difficult. Luckily, the Clear Lake/League City area has a resource for both people and their pets at Natural Living Organic Food Co-Op. Owner Lisa Piper started developing awareness of how to deal with food allergies because of the needs in her family, and this grew to her starting Natural Living seven years ago. Her vision for the store is to be a source of information and education, as well as a resource for whole and organic foods, with a strong emphasis on allergen free foods. The focus at Natural Living is on whole foods--ingredients that have no or minimal processing. People with allergies respond much better to whole foods. They also sell only organic produce that is either sourced locally or from certified organic farms. They focus on local people making local products. In addition, instead of selling supplements, they sell the natural herbs that would have been a processed part of the supplement, since more benefit is obtained from consuming the whole food. Listed as a Non-GMO Verified Site, Natural Living is committed to 100% GMO-free food. Genetically modified food often triggers allergies that were
So S o what else makes Natural N a Living unique?
previously absent, or makes existing allergies worse. It also causes gut permeability (known as leaky gut syndrome), which impedes digestion and assimilation of food. This is even more of a problem for people with allergies because these issues are already present and therefore further exacerbated. Pets are also often adversely affected by GMO products. At Natural Living, they take extra precautions to prevent cross contamination. Unlike other stores where customers serve themselves from the bulk food bins, dramatically increasing the chance of accidentally mixing products in even a small amount, the staff at Natural Living measure and weigh the bulk products. They also use glass containers instead of plastic, to keep the food cleaner and fresher. In their commercial kitchen, all equipment is used only with gluten free products. From classes, to nutrition or sustainability film screenings, to private nutritional counseling, Natural Living helps people become comfortable with healthier eating. “Many people find us because their doctor just told them they must change their way of eating,” Lisa says. “Mostly they are feeling panic or anger, believing they have to now eat unpleasant food and can never again eat what they really love.”
• Locally made organic bone broth ((for people and animals) • Packaged to-go meals ((menu changes weekly) • Locally made organic raw vegan meals • Gluten free, organic, dairy free bulk goods • Bulk organic medicinal herbs and spices • Locally made organic gluten free medicinal tinctures and other medicinal products like herbal cough syrup • Unusual items like bentonite clay and fractionated coconut oil • ALL ingredients listed on every product Anyone can shop at Natural Living, either in the store or at the Open Market on Friday night and Saturday. Sign up for the weekly e-newsletter to stay informed of available foods, menu, recipes and classes. For more information, visit ShopNaturalLiving.com, email sales@shopnaturalliving.com or call 832-632-2937. Location: 219 N. Michigan Avenue in League City. See CRG, page 30.
natural awakenings
March 2017
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Fortunately, food allergies that trigger such a dramatic, fast, immune response are fairly rare, particularly in adults.
“Most of what we’re seeing today is an uptick in food sensitivities and intolerances, terms that are often used interchangeably to describe foods that are not digested well and can challenge the immune system,” says Solana Beach, California, nutrition and fitness expert JJ Virgin, author of The Virgin Diet. Newark, Delaware, medical doctor and allergist Junfang Jiao, Ph.D., attests to increased levels of testing for food allergies and sensitivities in recent years. “I can’t say there are more allergies or sensitivities, but more doctors are aware of the wide-ranging symptoms and more people are getting referred for testing,” he reports. Many experts agree on at least one underlying cause behind the trend—a widely studied condition called leaky
FEARLESS EATING How to Move Past Food Sensitivities by Kathleen Barnes
C
omplaints of digestive upsets, brain fog, headaches, relentless food cravings and unrelieved stress appear to be at epidemic levels these days. “These symptoms may be part of newfound awareness of the wideranging and seemingly unrelated health problems caused by food sensitivities and intolerances, which are different from food allergies,” explains microbiologist Kiran Krishnan, from Chicago.
Food allergies seem to be plaguing America’s children now more than in the past. We know that peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, once standard lunchbox fare, have become a no-no. They’re often outlawed by schools to protect the students that experience extreme peanut allergies.
The symptoms of food allergies in adults and children, often including hives, rashes and itching, can range from being annoying to life threatening. For extremely sensitive people, the tiniest fragment of a peanut or a bee sting, exposure to latex gloves or certain medications like penicillin can cause such a sudden strong allergic reaction that it results in anaphylaxis, which makes breathing passages swell shut. If untreated, such extreme allergies can even prove fatal, which is why people with severe allergies carry the antidote epinephrine (adrenaline) with them. Food allergies are diagnosed by blood and/or skin testing under the supervision of a medical professional, usually a doctor of medicine, osteopathy or naturopathy. Effective treatment, which must be customized to the individual, typically entails avoidance of allergy triggers.
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Food Allergies
South Houston/Galveston Edition
gut, characterized by intestinal permeability. Microscopic pinholes in an unhealthy small intestine can allow undigested nutrients to pass through intestinal walls, triggering mild immune responses, inflammation and, potentially, the onset of some diseases. Theories of what causes leaky gut are diverse and sometimes contradictory but experts recommend consulting a medical professional if one suffers from food sensitivities. Each individual is unique, so there is no “blanket solution” for everyone. Dysbiosis: Leaky gut is often caused by an imbalance in “good” and “bad” intestinal bacteria, sometimes called dysbiosis, says Krishnan. It can be brought on by the use of antibiotics, antibiotic residues in meats and dairy products or a diet high in sugar and processed foods. Most interesting, he believes, is the discovery that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Monsanto’s weed killer
Pressmaster/Shutterstock.com
Some More Common Issues
Roundup used on genetically modified (GMO) corn and soy crops, contributes to dysbiosis, as verified by Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists in a study published in Interdisciplinary Toxicology. They concluded with a plea to world governments to reconsider policies regarding the safety of glyphosate residues in foods. GMOs: While this issue has been less widely analyzed, a 1996 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that the Bacillus thuringiensis toxin added to Monsanto’s GMO corn crops to kill pests is not destroyed during human digestion. Danish researchers at the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University suggested it may damage cells of the intestinal lining. Gluten: “Gluten causes leaky gut,” says Port Jefferson, New York, naturopathic doctor Doni Wilson, author of The Stress Remedy, voicing one side of the controversy based on her review of scientific literature. She’s concluded, “Whether you are sensitive to it or not, gluten increases the production of zonulin, which can result in damage to intestinal walls and cause the cells on the outside of the intestines to set off an immune response to anything that passes through. In this condition, what we’re eating—cheese, milk, eggs, corn, soy—is leaking through the gut lining, triggering an immune response and potentially creating multiple food sensitivities.” Wilson also notes that in her clinical experience, only about half of her patients with gluten sensitivities complain of digestive issues. “I’ve found that gluten causes the immune cells on the outside of the small intestine to affect the nervous system, causing headaches, anxiety, depression and insomnia,” she says. Her findings are backed by research from the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Celiac Research and Italy’s University of Catania. The same researchers confirm that non-celiac gluten sensitivity or intolerance can also foster depression; a University of Cincinnati study published in the journal Headache links gluten and headaches. Other proteins in wheat can be problematic, advises Fiona McCulloch, a Toronto doctor of naturopathy, citing a study presented at the annual European Gastroenterology Conference, in Vienna,
As a gluten tolerance test, substitute an amount of non-gluten carbohydrates for the same amount of gluten-containing products. For example, instead of two pieces of bread, substitute three-quarters of a cup of brown rice—a rough equivalent in carbohydrate content. A positive difference in hunger, cravings and energy levels when gluten is eliminated indicates a condition of gluten intolerance. ~Fiona McCulloch last October. The report showed that a family of proteins called amylase trypsin inhibitors can lead to the development of inflammation in tissues beyond the gut, including the lymph nodes, kidneys, spleen and brain. Glyphosate residues can be a factor in gluten intolerance. Although wheat crops produced in the U.S. are not yet genetically modified, many non-organic wheat crops are sprayed with glyphosate to promote rapid drying, according to the Environmental Working Group. Inadequate digestive enzymes: Lactose intolerance is the most common result of missing digestive enzymes like lactase, according to the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota. Avoiding milk products may relieve digestive distress for some.
Eliminate Items, Then Challenge Most experts believe the easiest way to deal with food sensitivities is to stop eating the food in question. The so-called “elimination and challenge” diet, which has been in use for decades, is effective, free and addresses the foods responsible for common food intolerances, says Virgin.
Simply avoid the food of concern completely for at least three weeks, then eat a small amount of it and catalog the results. For some people, it may only take a couple of hours for symptoms to return after eating a piece of bread, cup of milk, an egg or bit of tofu. Virgin’s seven-food challenge is a bit more rigorous, but improves feelings of general well-being so readily that many people don’t even want to bring back the eliminated foods because they feel so much better, she says. Her threeweek diet completely eliminates the most common food sensitivity triggers: gluten-containing foods (largely wheat), dairy, eggs, soy, corn, peanuts, sugar and artificial sweeteners. “When I say eliminate these foods 100 percent, I mean it,” cautions Virgin. “You need to give your immune system at least that much time to cool off.” She adds, “You can do anything such as this for just three weeks.” Virgin also recommends the elimination diet for weight loss because it helps overcome food cravings triggered by the immune system response and leptin resistance, leveraging the hormone that turns off the body’s hunger signals, a finding confirmed by independent studies performed by Sweden’s Lund University and Italy’s University of Palermo. She’s also documented other positive effects through her own research and experience with participants in her programs, including improvements in energy, focus, joint pain, skin clarity and bloating, all in the designated short time frames.
Other Approaches People with food sensitivities may be able to tolerate occasional indulgences in their trigger foods once they’ve healed their digestive systems, notes Krishnan. Probiotics can help, especially those encapsulated in spores so they can pass through the barrage of stomach acid and reach the small intestine where they are most needed. Krishnan’s research, to be published this spring, showed that half of otherwise healthy young people suffering from leaky gut had a dramatic reduction of symptoms by taking a spore-forming probiotic Bacillus indicus product for 30 days. After the healing period, sensitive people may be able
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to eat small amounts of certain foods with the assistance of dietary aids and supplements, adds McCulloch. Get dirty: Johns Hopkins University research has shown that kids raised in an excessively hygienic environment experience much higher rates of allergies and sensitivities. University of Wisconsin researchers found that youths growing up in households that are less than obsessively sanitary among four or five other people and dogs will strengthen and challenge their immune systems as they mature. Adults need to challenge their immune systems, too, says Krishnan. Eat organic and fermented foods: A widely varied diet helps spread out the immune system challenges of trigger foods. Organic foods don’t contain glyphosate and other potentially harmful chemicals; fermented foods contain digestive enzymes. Eat prebiotics: Raw onions, garlic, leeks and asparagus are prebiotics. They help feed probiotic bacteria and improve gut health. Block sensitivity triggers: Many people with lactose intolerance are able to consume dairy products if they use lactase, the enzyme that helps digest lactose. Similarly, some people with gluten intolerance find they can eat moderate amounts of wheat products with protein supplements like lectin, carb blockers and digestive enzymes that help break down the gluten molecules, according to Virgin. Supplements that might help: Glucomannan (konjac or elephant yam fiber) contributes to a feeling of fullness and stabilizes blood sugar, says McCulloch. She also recommends the amino acid L-glutamine and digestive enzymes to assist in gut healing. Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
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Food Intolerances Self-Questionnaire by JJ Virgin Answer each question with never (0), seldom (1), sometimes (2) or often (3). 1. I need a cup of coffee or another caffeinated pick-me-up to jumpstart the middle of my morning or afternoon. _____ 2. I crave baked goods, pasta and other high-sugar impact foods. _____ 3. I have difficulty falling asleep or I awake during the night feeling anxious and struggle to get back to sleep. _____ 4. My bowel movements occur infrequently (less than one a day), which can sometimes be painful and involve straining. _____ 5. My mood can change swiftly and I take out my crankiness and irritation on coworkers and family members. _____ 6. I want to lay my head down on my desk mid-morning or afternoon because I have little motivation to remain productive. _____ 7. During meetings or conversations I zone out and struggle to concentrate for long periods of time on my work. _____ 8. After eating a big meal, I’m hungry and craving more of what I ate several hours later. _____ 9. Doing routine and important tasks takes all the energy and initiative I have. _____ 10. Even as an adult, I struggle with acne, rashes or blotchy skin, even though I use expensive skin cream. _____ 11. I head to the bathroom or step outside after a meal because of gassiness, bloating or other uncomfortable gut issues. _____ 12. The smell of a scented candle, perfume and detergent bothers me. _____ 13. Walking or moving around can create cramping, achiness or joint pain. _____ 14. I develop headaches that prevent me from enjoying the moment and leave me scrambling for a pain reliever. _____ 15. Even though I don’t have other cold/flu symptoms, I suffer from a scratchy throat or sinus trouble. _____ 16. I eat all the right foods in moderation, exercise religiously, and yet struggle intensely to lose every pound. _____ Total Score: ______
What Scores Mean 18 or above – You most likely struggle with food intolerances that create many unpleasant symptoms and stall fat loss. By removing the seven target foods for just three weeks, you’ll see these symptoms disappear and the scales will start moving again. 10 to 17 – You display some of the symptoms that food intolerances can trigger. You would greatly benefit from eliminating target foods to lose symptoms and those last few pounds. Below 10 – While you suffer few of the symptoms brought about by food intolerances, you could still benefit from the same regimen. Even the healthiest person can take their game up a notch and ditch those last few stubborn pounds. Source: The Virgin Diet, by JJ Virgin NA-SETexas.com
photos courtesy Gyrotonic.com
fitbody
Hello Gyro Workouts Use Natural Body Patterns by Aimee Hughes
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magine an exercise system that strengthens the body enough to be used in training world-class athletes, stretches more safely than any form of yoga and expands the core training concepts of Pilates into natural full-body movements like those used in everyday reaching and walking, along with jumping and swimming. This is the Gyrotonic system,” says Angela Crowley, a Gyrotonic master teacher, trainer and exercise spa owner in Coral Gables, Florida. A former gymnast and dancer, Crowley took to the Gyrotonic approach after being severely injured in an automobile accident. “Traditional physical therapy only addressed certain aspects without bringing me back to normal,” she says. “Running and yoga felt intolerable. Gyrotonic exercises became a perfect bridge. I was able to rehabilitate safely while challenging myself to return to normal expectations and now, beyond.” The system of fluid movements leverages specially designed equipment that can be customized for every individual.
Find an illustrative video and search classes by postal code at Gyrotonic.com. “The Gyrotonic system combines elements from many different modalities into three-dimensional, circular movements. A primary focus is on all the different motions of the spine and how to create rhythmic, flowing movement within the entire body,” says Stefani Schrimpf, Gyrotonic instructor and studio owner of Physiques, in Overland Park, Kansas. “The exercises strengthen, lengthen and stretch muscles, while stimulating connective tissues around the joints. They also improve balance, flexibility and coordination. This system allows you to push beyond specific limitations and to isolate and fine tune movement skills,” says Schrimpf. While a Gyrotonic workout has similarities to yoga and Pilates, it is also unique. According to Melissa Jutras, a Pilates instructor, weightlifting coach, personal trainer and gym/studio owner of Big Blue Strength, in Lexington, Kentucky, “Hatha yoga is a series of static postures, whereas Pilates and Gyrotonic movements focus on flow, using equipment to enhance core strength, stability, control, coordination and flexibility. The difference is that Gyrotonic exercises works on three dimensions with every circular movement, like the body naturally moves. It uses weights and a pulley system, whereas Pilates is more linear and uses spring tension.” Jutras believes the Gyrotonic system, Pilates and yoga all complement weightlifting and strength training, affording a mind-body balance. “The body then experiences low- and high-threshold exercise, low-intensity and highintensity, weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing activity,” she says. Crowley sees the Gyrotonic approach complementing virtually any activity. “The exercises help practitioners learn how to move more efficiently, easily, powerfully, gracefully and successfully in every facet of life.” The method is also offered without equipment in the form of Gyrokinesis, a flowing class done on a chair, mat and standing. This affordable option can be practiced independently at home. “My youngest client is 7, my oldest is 94,” relates Crowley. “We have clients that have become bored by repetitive exercise and enjoy the limitless variations of movements that keep both their minds and muscles alert. We have chronic pain clients that have exhausted other medical options and are improving their ability to function more optimally and enjoying their lives again.” Both Schrimpf and her husband, Juan Trujillo, teach the Gyrotonic method. “Our greatest reward is the feedback we get. Once people try it, they’re hooked,” she says. “It transforms how people think about movement and brings a sense of joy and accomplishment. They feel their joints becoming more supple and balanced, and find their bodies responding well to the natural movement patterns.” Aimee Hughes, a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO, is a doctor of naturopathy and consultant for the Yandara Yoga Institute. Connect at ChezAimee@gmail.com. natural awakenings
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Thumbs-Up on Fats Good Fat Doesn’t Make Us Fat by Judith Fertig
281-797-6442 607 S. Friendswood Dr. | Ste 21 | Friendswood, TX 77546 undergroundpilates@hotmail.com UndergroundPilatesTX.com
The secret of
getting ahead is getting started. ~Mark Twain
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n an era of too much information, the role of fats in our diet has been a victim of not enough information. Today’s turnaround in nutritional thinking acknowledges natural fats as being vital to heart health and weight loss.
Heart Health Benefit A recent metastudy in the Annals of Internal Medicine, a journal of the American College of Physicians, concluded that saturated fat does not appear to increase heart disease risk, overturning almost 60 years of accepted medical thought. The researchers analyzed data from 76 studies involving more than 600,000 people and found that those that ate the most saturated, or “bad”, fat did not show a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared with those that ate the least. Note that processed trans fats remain a villain, still deemed a risk to heart health per the metastudy. The misleading information began in the 1950s, when Physiologist Ancel Keys, Ph.D., discovered a correlation between diets high in saturated fats and higher cholesterol levels. Soon, the low-fat diet was born. In 2000, further research introduced the concepts of good and bad fats. More recent analysis confirmed this finding NA-SETexas.com
with the refinement that saturated fats increase both types of cholesterol. However, the latest research from the journal BMJ shows that saturated fat does not increase the number of LDL, or “bad”, particles, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. Instead, it makes existing LDL particles larger, a fairly benign situation in regard to such disease.
Weight Loss Benefit Fat doesn’t even make you fat, claims Mark Hyman, a well-known medical doctor in Lenox, Massachusetts, and author of Eat Fat, Get Thin: Why the Fat We Eat Is the Key to Sustained Weight Loss and Vibrant Health. “The theory that all calories have the same impact on your weight and metabolism remains one of the most persistent nutrition myths,” says this practitioner of functional medicine who points out that we’ve been sidetracked by wrong thinking. “Eating fat can make you lean. Healthy cell walls made from highquality fats are better able to metabolize insulin, which keeps blood sugar better regulated. Without proper blood sugar control, the body socks away fat for a rainy day. The right fats also increase fat burning, diminish hunger and reduce fat storage,” he notes.
Whole30, a 30-day diet revolving around clean eating, also emphasizes healthy fats. Devised in 2009 by Dallas Hartwig, a functional medicine practitioner and certified sports nutritionist, and Melissa Hartwig, a certified sports nutritionist, the program aims to reduce inflammation, detoxify the body and reset metabolism. The Salt Lake City, Utah, authors of the New York Times bestselling The Whole30 recommend healthy fats to keep us full and rev up metabolism. Recommended healthy fats include coconut milk and oil, avocados, olive oil, organic ghee (clarified butter) and raw nuts. Josh Axe, a natural medicine practitioner and clinical nutritionist in Nashville, Tennessee, recommends the healthy fats contained in avocados, organic butter and ghee from grass-fed cows and goats, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds and flax seeds. “Butter’s experiencing a comeback as a healthy fat as its benefits become more widely known,” says Axe. “The omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in butter help the brain function properly and improve skin health.” Ghee, an ancient Indian version of butter, is lactose- and casein-free, while being loaded with fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, says Axe. These vitamins are best absorbed by the body when they’re in a fat substance and then stored in the gastrointestinal tract, keeping metabolism and digestion on track, he notes.
Ghee’s high level of vitamin K2, best known as a natural blood coagulator, “also helps strengthen bones, while the fatty acids found in it improve digestion and reduce inflammation.”
Healthy Levels of Fat “If you’re active, about 40 percent of your calories should come from carbohydrates, another 30 percent from protein and the other 30 percent from fat in general,” says Axe, adding that this has the added benefit of helping prevent arteriosclerosis.
“Some people may consume a greater percentage of healthy fats if the goal is to become a fat burner.” “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss and health,” Hyman reminds us. “Low-carb, higher-fat diets work for most people, but for some, they may not be optimal in the long term.” Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).
Prime Sources of Healthy Fats Functional medicine physician Mark Hyman suggests that we include four to five servings of fat in our diets every day. “In the last five years, the scientific evidence has been mounting that high-fat diets outperform low-fat diets for weight loss and for revising every single indication of heart disease risk, including abnormal cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension and inflammation,” he says. Each amount listed indicates a serving size.
Fatty fish (4 ounces of salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, tuna or trout) Avocado (one-half to one avocado) Extra virgin coconut oil (one tablespoon) Organic coconut milk (one-quarter cup) Olives (one-quarter cup) Grass-fed animal butter, clarified butter or ghee (one tablespoon)
Nuts (a handful of walnuts, almonds, macadamia nuts or cashews) Seeds (a handful of pumpkin, sunflower of flaxseed) Most plant-based liquid oils (one
tablespoon of olive, safflower, sesame, avocado, macadamia, grape seed or walnut oil)
Aim to eat fats that remain liquid (not solid) at room temperature; it’s a sure sign of heart-healthy, unsaturated fats. Source: Adapted from Eat Fat, Get Thin, by Mark Hyman, M.D.
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healingways
Holistic Eye Care Taking the Whole Body into Account by Linda Sechrist
T
he “old wives’ tale” about eating carrots for healthy vision wasn’t wrong, but fell far short of a holistic approach to eye health. Today’s holistically trained healthcare providers and ophthalmologists believe that properly maintaining the marvelous phenomenon of eyesight requires taking into consideration genetics, diet, toxin exposures, life environments and our belief systems. “The body does not work as a series of parts in isolation, but as a dynamically integrated living system,” says Marc Grossman, a doctor of optometry, licensed acupuncture physician and co-founder of Natural Eye Health, in New Paltz, New York. “The reductionist method of referring each symptom to the domain of a particular specialist, isolated from the whole person, is slowly being replaced with a complementary view of health care that may include acupuncture and other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine. We are beginning to look at each person as an integrated being.” Progressive health providers now consider dietary preferences, general exercise regimens, environmental factors and physical, emotional and mental issues, as well as an individual’s particular symptoms, in determining treatment strategies. “To improve vision, the condition of the whole person needs to be addressed,” says Grossman, whose books include Natural Eye Care: Your Guide to Healthy Vision. Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Homeopathic Doctor Edward Kondrot’s practice at Healing The Eye &
Wellness Center, which he founded in Zephyrhills, Florida, embraces traditional and alternative therapies. He uses microcurrent, ozone therapy and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved stem cells from a newborn’s umbilical cord in treating serious eye disease. Kondrot, the author of 10 Essentials to Save Your Sight, systemically understands the eyes as windows to overall health. For instance, his perspective is founded on the fact that a balanced diet is one of the best preventive measures for maintaining eye health. Systemic disorders such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stress-related effects and nutritional deficiencies are easily determined under the scrutiny of his holistic biomicroscope. According to science published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractic spinal manipulation may also contribute to normal vision; in one case study, 20 treatment sessions helped an individual recover the function of optic nerves and normal vision. It’s generally accepted that chiropractic adjustment realigning the spinal column allows the nervous system to function properly, reduces tension and frees up the body to better transport blood to locations such as the eyes. Additionally, the second vertebra below the skull contains nerves that affect the eyes, optic nerves, auditory nerves and sinuses. Common eye conditions generally develop so slowly that they may not present noticeable symptoms until deterioration has become severe. “Many factors can affect our eyesight, including
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other health problems. Having a family member with eye disease may mean you’re genetically prone to having that condition as well, but living a healthy lifestyle may prevent the gene from being activated,” advises Kondrot. Viewing the condition of the eyes as a reflection of whole body health means that lifestyle and diet choices play major roles. The Vision Diet and supplement program recommended in Grossman’s Natural Eye Care has been shown to reduce the intraocular pressure in the eyes of study participants by five to seven millimeters, which generally equates to 10 to 15 percent. In general, a diet high in beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and sulfur-bearing amino acids can be helpful. Foods containing such nutrients include garlic, onions, beans, spinach, celery, turnips, yellow and orange vegetables, green leafy vegetables, seaweed, apples, oranges and tomatoes. Other dietary and lifestyle options recommended by Grossman are daily drinking one pint of juice made from mostly green vegetables and drinking eight to 10 glasses of purified water to keep eyes hydrated. Managing stress and doing palming and other eye exercises, such as those found at Tinyurl.com/ ComputerEyeStrainExercises, as well as daily aerobic exercise for at least 20 minutes, are also beneficial. Additionally, Kondrot’s use of multimodal protocols such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, homeopathy, and detoxification can be applied to reverse visual loss. Kondrot advises that avoiding foods that trigger allergic reactions is important. “A study of 113 patients with chronic simple glaucoma showed an immediate increase in pressure in the fluid inside the eye when they were exposed to foods to which they were allergic. Take up meditation, yoga, tai chi or any other practice that helps you manage stress and relax,” he advises. “Some consider glaucoma a stress-related condition.” The best strategy for healthy eyes is to have regular eye examinations. Early detection and prompt treatment can prevent significant vision loss. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
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any people think chiropractic care is primarily to relieve an aching back or neck. At Bay Colony Chiropractic, in addition to back and neck related issues, including headaches, whiplash, sciatica, and pinched nerves, they also provide treatment to help reduce frequency and severity of allergies, improve the functioning of the immune system, relieve pressure and restore joint movement affected by osteoarthritis, and reduce the pain of fibromyalgia or carpal tunnel syndrome. The chiropractic way of looking at the body is based on the idea that the body is self-sustaining and self-healing. Because the body is all interconnected, many things going wrong with the body can be traced to misalignment in the spine. On Dr. Sanders’ website, the 3D Spine interactive page shows which organs and nerves are affected by which area of the spine. Very cool! “Because chiropractors understand that although our patients may be diagnosed with the same condition, they respond very differently to treatments, we tailor a specific plan of action to meet the needs, goals and unique medical and physical condition of each individual,” says Dr. Sanders. In addition to adjustments, Dr. Sanders’ office also provides chiropractic massage, therapeutic exercises, custom foot orthotics, and more. Location: 350 FM 517 W, Dickinson. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit BayColonyChiros.com or call 281-337-3337. See ad, page 24. natural awakenings
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healthykids
Silencing Cyberbullies How to Defuse Bad Actors by April Thompson
hether it’s a damaging rumor posted on Facebook, a humiliating photo shared on Instagram or a threatening text, cyberbullying is increasing among today’s youth. A 2015 Cyberbullying Research Center study of middle school students found that 43 percent had been targeted, while 15 percent admitted to being online bullies. Meanwhile, students, parents and teachers are combating cyber-aggression with initiatives to make the phenomenon socially unacceptable in schools.
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Grassroots Action
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Tyler Gregory, 23, attended a small, insular high school in rural Ohio where bullying was problematic. As a senior with younger siblings approaching their high school years, he aimed to change the local culture to make bullying uncool. Gregory decided to make a movie to submit to the NO BULL Challenge, a national organization that provides students a platform to develop and disseminate materials that spark dialogue about such
troubling issues. Challenges ranged from teaching himself filmmaking and persuading students to participate to mustering the courage to present the project to his school. He achieved the transformation he sought, beginning with 70 students participating in his production. “I appealed to classmates by asking, ‘How do you want to be remembered? Why not choose to be viewed positively, as leaders?’” says Gregory, who later became a spokesperson for NO BULL Challenge. To date, the challenge has received 600 submissions, garnering 23 million impressions through digital and social media, the vehicles of cyberbullies. A recent graduate of Dayton, Ohio’s Wright State University, Gregory has spoken to about 45,000 students in 27 states in school assemblies. Nancy Willard, director of Embrace Civility in the Digital Age, headquartered in Creswell, Oregon, believes that such initiatives, which shift schools from punitive approaches to making bullying incompatible with accepted social norms, are the only way to bring lasting change. “We need to cultivate a climate where being hurtful is contrary to a school’s expressed values. Most young people don’t like to see their peers being hurtful and admire those that stand up to peers and have them make amends,” says Willard. The educator’s website, EmbraceCivility.org, offers free materials with concrete steps for students and teachers to foster positive school environments.
Protecting the Vulnerable Cyberbullying isn’t limited to attacks on unpopular kids that lack satisfying peer relationships. It’s seven times more likely to occur between current or former friends and romantic partners than between strangers, according to a study led by Diane Felmlee, professor of sociology at Pennsylvania State University. Felmlee’s research further found that non-heterosexual youth are four times as likely as their heterosexual peers to be cyberbullied, while popular kids are also frequently targeted.
Two social dynamics seem to be at work: “One involves individuals that violate social norms, such as LGBTQ youth, and the other revolves around status struggles,” reports Felmlee. “In the latter case, bullies are vying for popularity, recognition and self-esteem. Those with higher social status may be attacked because they’re viewed as competition.” Cyberbullying’s impact can exceed face-to-face aggression, as offensive remarks can spread far and fast, and live online in perpetuity instead of fading away, observes Felmlee. Gregory adds that it can also affect students’ ability to learn when some skip school to avoid tormentors.
Helpful Responses Most youths don’t report cyberbullying, feeling embarrassed, afraid the situation will get worse or doubtful of remedial action. “Schools need to step up their response to bullying, make it known that it won’t be tolerated, set clear policies and enforce them,” counsels Gregory. Because most bullied youths don’t speak up, parents need to communicate openly with kids and be aware of their online activities, advises Felmlee. Willard notes that it’s also important to address the bullies themselves through understanding their motivation, and then persuading them to accept responsibility and take steps to rectify harm. “This should be about reparation, not punishment.” Gregory’s high school film assures bullies that it’s never too late to make amends. While it can be hard to stand up to bullies, caring peers can easily express support. “Bystanders have the power to change the atmosphere,” agrees Gregory. “Kindly approaching a student being picked on who may feel alone and ashamed goes further than most students realize.” Those affected by cyberbullying also can cut off their aggressors, suggests Gregory. “The ‘block’ button is powerful. Cyberbullies want to see a reaction. Blocking them from social media exchanges or texting takes away their power.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.
Muting Meanness Here are some tips to help keep digital spaces safe and civil. Think twice before posting a photo or comment that could be taken out of context and misappropriated. Report bad behavior to an adult that can help figure out the right course of action. Don’t portray youth as victims, which can perpetuate the idea they are weak and vulnerable targets. Save cyber evidence to help officials take appropriate action. Some schools now have online reporting systems that allow students to anonymously submit screenshots from social media. Don’t retaliate. It likely will only aggravate unwanted behavior and drag everyone down to the cyberbully’s level of consciousness. Keep watch. Apps like Online Guardian for Families, CyberSynchs and YouDiligence allow parents to monitor children’s exposure on social media via keywords related to bullying. Resources: EmbraceCivility.org; Cyberbullying.org; Tinyurl.com/Bully PreventionTips; Tinyurl.com/Apps BlockBullies; StopBullying.gov/cyberbullying.
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FOREVER GREEN Eco-Burial Options Grow
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by Avery Mack
BAY COLONY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Donna Sanders 350 FM 517 W, Dickinson 281-337-3337 BayColonyChiros.com
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N
atural burials allow those that lived their principles of an environmentally sound life to complete their days in a planet-friendly, personalized way. “The number of U.S. cemeteries allowing natural burials has increased by 30 in the last year,” says Elizabeth Fournier, owner of Cornerstone Funeral Services, in Boring, Oregon. “More than 150 cemeteries allow them now. We encourage replacing cut flowers with plants. A multipurpose wooden casket can serve as a bookshelf until needed, or a casket can be made of natural wicker, paper or grass.” Formaldehyde-free embalming fluids made of non-toxic and biodegradable essential oils allow for a synthetic chemical-free burial. “Green burials tend to be unique and can last from one to four hours,” says Brian Flowers, green burial coordinator for Moles Farewell Tributes, in Bellingham, Washington. “One funeral had 50 Civil War re-enactors in blue and gray outfits, along with a 21-musket and two-cannon salute. Another was led by a shaman. Natural burial isn’t just for the Birkenstock/patchouli crowd. Our area is farm-rich, so a green burial fits with the idea of living close to the land.” The Moles’ four-and-one-half-acre meadow for natural burial will expand in the next two years to eight acres. Flowers explains, “It’s an ecological
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restoration site. We manage invasive species and plant three native plants for each burial.” In Houston, Terry Ward, president and CEO of Country Communities, notes how fast-paced lifestyles can prevent intimate connections among siblings. “At Indigo Fields, we’re able to implant an app-accessible microchip into an urn or stone. The information can include photos, details of the person’s life and stories that might otherwise become lost. It can be updated at any time and serves as a gift for anyone researching the family tree. It helps the living heal and talk about their fears, too.”
Added Green Alternatives Cremation has always been an alternative to burial, but is energy intensive; recycling medical parts helps green up this option. Many choices are available for the cremains, the ashes that remain after a cremation. Many states outlaw burying pet remains in a human cemetery, so Lisa Brambilla, of Yorba Linda, California, invented 100 percent biodegradable Bio Urns. “Before, pet lovers had few choices when it came time to say
goodbye. Laying a cremated pet to rest this way makes a loss easier because it’s a physical manifestation of a pet in plant form. It hurts a little less,” she says. Each urn comes with a seed for a tree or shrub and the proper soil to help it grow. “Maka, a keeshond, was the dog my son’s heart bonded with; he was 6 when she died,” Brambilla relates. “After she grew into a tree, he could smile when he talked about her. It teaches kids to create a new life and to treat the planet well. Death is nothing but a word. The only thing real is life.” Bio Urn expanded to include human clients after Brambilla’s fatherin-law requested to be remembered via a redwood tree and her mother, a Christmas tree. Eternal reefs are made of ashes mixed with cement placed in the ocean in a military-style ceremony to help support marine life for at least 500 years. Family members retain the reef’s GPS coordinates and can boat or dive to visit it. Music lovers can choose to have their ashes compressed into a vinyl record. A live recording of goodbyes, a last will and testament or compilation of
favorite songs can be prerecorded. Ashes can also be compressed into colorful memorial gemstones ready to be set into jewelry to keep a loved one close. Resomation, or bio-cremation, liquefies the body in a heated alkaline bath, using far less energy than traditional cremation and without environmentally harmful chemical emissions; afterward, the bones are ground, resembling cremains, and are returned to the family. Promession is a way to freeze-dry the body by immersion in liquid nitrogen at -321° F. When it becomes brittle, vibrations shake the corpse into small pieces, water is evaporated and the dust that remains can be used as compost. Invented by Swedish biologist Susanne Wiigh-Mäsak, she feels it’s the utmost Earth-friendly way to return a body to the soil. As people opt to avoid the higher costs of a traditional funeral and elect practical, eco-friendly ways to exit the human scene, natural burials can become more accepted ways to achieve Biblical dust-to-dust while doing no harm. Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.
GONE GREEN Each year, traditional funerals use and bury: Hardwoods for caskets (30 million board feet) Steel for caskets (90,272 tons, plus 14,000 tons for vaults) Copper and bronze for caskets (2,700 tons) Reinforced concrete for vaults (1.636 million tons) Embalming fluids (827,060 gallons)
Earth-friendly methods: Cost about half as much as a traditional funeral. Use non-toxic embalming fluids. Offer biodegradable caskets. Replace quarried headstones with natural stone or greenery. Restore native plant areas, reducing invasive species, mowing and herbicides. Contribute to peace of mind with a green legacy. Source: Casket and Funeral Supply Association of America
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NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS
Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies by Sandra Murphy
pterwort/Shutterstock.com
Susan Schmitz/Shutterstock.com
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ather than routinely giving drugs to dogs and cats to relieve dry, itchy, skin or food allergies, consider more gentle natural alternatives. As with people, knowing what an animal is allergic to is key to finding the right remedy and preventing future outbreaks. With dogs, about 20 percent of itching and scratching can be attributed to food ingredients. Symptoms can show up as early as 5 months or as late as 12 years old, often combined with inhalant or contact allergies. Chronic ear infections are often traced to food allergies. “If a pet is suffering mightily, see your veterinarian for shots or pills for immediate relief. Then ask the vet to allergy test for the specific problem,” advises Veterinarian Laurie Dohmen, owner of Purple Moon Herbs and Studies, in Hartly, Delaware. “This isn’t something you can do yourself. I’ve seen pet owners use what worked for a friend’s dog and make their own pets sicker, despite research and good intentions. What works for one pet won’t necessarily work for another.” While food elimination testing works, it’s a long process that must be done with precision. “If your pet even just nibbles
the eliminated food, you have to start all over again,” says Dohmen. Whether commercially prepared or home cooked, the number of ingredients can substantially extend a test period. Each item must be completely avoided for about six weeks for an accurate assessment. Environmental allergies, which encompass everything unrelated to food, range from common grasses to inhaled pollutants. New carpets or rugs, cleaning supplies, a neighbor’s pesticides, dust and pollen are among the culprits that can cause an allergic reaction. Common symptoms are itchy ears or skin, ear infections, sneezing, runny eyes, scratching, vomiting or diarrhea. Veterinarian Judy Morgan, owner of Naturally Healthy Pets, in Clayton, New Jersey, also uses herbs in her practice to alleviate food and environmental allergy symptoms. “They can be tinctures or poultices; one herb or a blended mixture. Some are applied externally, some internally.” Giving the proper dosage for the size of the pet is vital. She particularly likes calendula for hot spots, despite its odor, because it’s antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral, followed by witch hazel to dry them, and then
coconut oil or aloe to soothe and soften affected skin—plus Echinacea to boost the immune system. She uses ginger or peppermint to counteract nausea. “Many people think an allergic pet should be switched to a lamb and rice diet. In some cases, that makes dry, itchy, skin worse,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to know what they are allergic to before trying out new foods or herbal remedies. Find a holistic vet to work with.” Morgan often prescribes a mixture of herbs for the best results. “I like licorice because it works like a steroid without the side effects. Probiotics help keep gut bacteria and the immune system healthy. Parsley works well for dry, itchy, skin caused by a blood deficiency, or imbalance. “Parsley brings a protein, as well as several vitamins, to the party,” notes Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger in Marysville, Washington. “It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and also great if your dog’s breath needs a freshness boost.” She suggests rosemary and thyme as ingredients in an antibacterial, antifungal salve; she mixes these essential oils with extra virgin coconut oil and beeswax to create paw balm. Morgan reminds us that essential oils can be harmful, even life-threatening, for cats. “If Kitty has itchy skin, lavender tea can be used as a rinse on cooperative cats,” she suggests. “For a less cooperative feline, chamomile tea as a drink or as leaves mixed into the food soothes itches.” Dohmen cautions, “Herbs and other homeopathic remedies or flower essences are medicine and should be given as a prescription by a qualified veterinarian.” Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.
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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 5th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Standard listings are $18 and Expanded listings are $32. Please submit in formats shown below to Info@NA-SETexas.com. We reserve the right to edit for readability and word count. No phone calls or faxed listings accepted.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Party – 10-11am. Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with crafts and activities. The Tea House Under the Oaks is providing refreshments. Free. Helen Hall Library, 100 W Walker, League City. 281-554-1113.
League City Wellness Walk/Run – 6am. Designed to increase awareness of the needs of seniors and encourage citizens of all ages to develop healthy lifestyles, benefits the Friends of League City Seniors Foundation. $20-25. Walter Hall Park, 807 SH 3 N, League City. 409-934-8100.
Workout Wednesdays – 12-12:50pm. Be prepared to sweat through speed, agility, quickness, core strength, body weight and circuit drills incorporating equipment such as jump ropes, TRX suspension trainer, kettle bells, and more. Bring a Friend. Free to members and non-members. UFC Gym, 8201 Broadway, Pearland. 281-973-4287.
THURSDAY, MARCH 2 Texas Independence Day Celebration – 9:30am2:30pm. Come celebrate our independence with guest speakers, historical characters, musket volleys, music and refreshments. Free. Stephen F. Austin Statue, 41885 SH 288, Angleton. BrazoriaCountyParks.org.
FRIDAY, MARCH 3 On The Road for a Reason – 6pm. Fundraiser benefitting the Bay Area Alliance for Youth and Families. Enjoy food truck vendors and the sounds of a local DJ while looking at the wide variety of cars from our community. $25-35. Challenger Columbia Stadium, 1955 W. Nasa Blvd., Webster. OnTheRoadForAReason.net.
SATURDAY, MARCH 4 Causeway FunD Run/Walk – 7:45am. UTMB Health & the School of Health Professions again hosting this event benefitting SHP student scholarships. Participate in this event to help provide scholarships for the School of Health Professions. $10-40. Galveston County Daily News, 8522 Teichman Rd., Galveston. 409-772-3006. Annual Fishing Extravaganza – 10am. Hosted by the City of League City. Join neighbors & friends for this family friendly event. Hundreds of fish will be placed in the city pool. Take home what you catch, fileting will be offered for a fee. Catch a ‘tagged’ fish & win a prize! $6-10. League City Municipal Pool, 450 West Walker, League City. 281-554-1180. 2nd Annual Texas Music Fest – 2-9pm. A celebration of Texas Independence presented by Friends of Downtown Friendswood Association. A family friendly celebration with live music, food and a fun atmosphere! Proceeds to benefit Downtown Revitalization efforts. $10. Downtown Friendswood, 150 S. Friendswood Dr., Friendswood. FDFA.org.
FRIDAY, MARCH 10 Drum Circle: Financial Prosperity – 7:30-9pm. Financial Prosperity means freedom and choice. Come and get the vibration of money in to your body. Drums provided, or bring your own. No experience necessary. Sundance Yoga, 128 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood. Love donation ($10 suggested). 512-659-6694 DrummingTogether.org
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South Houston/Galveston Edition
Surfside Beach: St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 11am. Annual event, includes a parade, plenty of free beads and candy thrown from the floats. Also costume contests, a social, fund raisers, and a reenactment of the Battle of Fort Velasco. A portion of the proceeds go to the Surfside Police, EMS and Volunteer Fire Department. Free. Surfside Beach City Hall, 1304 Monument Dr., Freeport. 979-864-3414.
TUESDAY, MARCH 14 Nassau Bay Garden Club – 9:30am-12pm. Join us for this workshop on “Planting Vegetables and Herbs Vertical and Horizontal” presented by Jenni Hudgins, member NBGC and Galveston County Master Gardener. Free. Nassau Bay City Hall, 1800 Space Park Drive, Suite 200, Nassau Bay. Info@NassayBayGC.org.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15 Home Healing Picnic Lunch and Learn – 11am1pm. Join us for a spring break park day to learn how essential oils can help support restful sleep, achy joints and muscles, stress, immunity and more! Challenger 7 Park, 2301 W Nasa Blvd, Webster. (main playground, purple covered picnic table). Melissa Vaughan. idropforwellness@gmail.com. 979.429.drop.
THURSDAY, MARCH 16 6-Week Series: Optimize Body Mind Spirit Connection – 7-8:30pm. Experience group drumming, meridian tapping, applied kinesiology, breath work, intuitive eating techniques & more for weight/body image, financial prosperity, loving relationships, and life purpose. Brookdale Senior Living Center lounge, 780 W. Bay Area Blvd, Webster. $99 in advance for the series (March 16-April 20), or $20 per session. 512-659-6694. DrummingTogether.org
FRIDAY, MARCH 17 Seabrook Lucky Trail Marathon – March 17-19. Races are held on the Seabrook nature trails surrounded by diverse habitat. Benefits go to The Bridge over Troubled Waters. Visit SeabrookMarathon.org. for fees, course locations and times. Blanket Bingo – 6-8pm. There is nothing more satisfying than yelling out BINGO! Don’t miss the family fun so pack a picnic, bring your blanket and get ready for some live BINGO action. $1. National Oak Park, 118 S Magnolia, Alvin. Alvin-Tx.gov. 28th Texas Joy Ride & Rod Run – The fun includes raffles, door prizes, arts and crafts, and Sunday services. Enjoy the car show or take a go yourself to try for an award. Freeport Municipal Park, 500 N. Brazosport Blvd., Freeport. 281-444-8680.
NA-SETexas.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 18 Texas Outdoor Family Weekend – 9am. A weekend designed to help your family discover the joys of camping and Texas State Parks. All camping gear & equipment required for an overnight stay at the park are included with each reservation. $65. Galveston Island State Park, 14901 FM 3005, Galveston. 512-389-8903. Fireworks in the Park – All day. Come and enjoy a day filled with wonderful sights and sounds provided by a free movie, concert and great fireworks display. Free. Bay Street Park, 1400 Bay Street North, Texas City. TexasCityCommunityCalendar.com.
SUNDAY, MARCH 19 3rd Annual Beach & Bay Play Day – 10am-4pm. Join us for a fun day filled with beach and bay explorations, guided bird watching, kayaking adventures, conservation activities and a sea turtle obstacle course. Free. Galveston Island State Park, 14901 FM 3005, Galveston. Fogisp.WordPress.com.
MONDAY, MARCH 20 Drum Circle: Financial Prosperity – 7-8:15pm. In this HealthRHYTHMS Drum Circle we will focus on ways to attract and enjoy financial prosperity. Drums provided, or bring your own. No experience necessary. Natural Living Food Co-Op, 219 N. Michigan Ave., League City. $10 in advance, $12 at the door. 512-659-6694 DrummingTogether.org
THURSDAY, MARCH 23 An Evening with Tom Abrahams – 6-9:30pm. Mr. Abrahams is the author of several books that cross genres and include action/adventures, postapocalyptic thrillers and political conspiracies. The Book and Author dinner will raise funds to enhance the Maker Space at the Lake Jackson Library and create a new Maker Space in the renovated Pearland Library. $40. Brazoria County FairGrounds, 901 South Downing Street, Angleton. 832-724-4353.
FRIDAY, MARCH 24 Drum Circle: Happy Healthy Relationships – 7-8:30pm. In this HealthRHYTHMS Drum Circle we will focus on ways to nourish our relationships. Drums provided, or bring your own. No experience necessary. Unity Bay Area Houston, 1911 Hwy 3 S., League City. Love donation ($10 suggested). 512-659-6694 DrummingTogether.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 25 JSC Spring Craft Fair & Flea Market – 9am3:30pm. Shop with over 50 vendors selling goodies such as home decor, candles, jewelry, baked goods, artwork & more! Gilruth Center-Alamo Ballroom, 2101 E Nasa Pkwy., Houston. 281-483-0304. Paws in the Park – 10am-4pm. This will be a full weekend of activities and entertainment with your furry friend. Event begins with a Fun Run. Free. Veterans Sports Complex, 4141 Bailey Road, Pearland. PearlandTx.gov. Handbags and Gladrags – 11:30am-1pm. Ladies’ luncheon and purse auction sponsored by Angleton Alumni Association to raise money for AHS scholarships. Vintage, novelty and gently used designer purses in silent auction. Nancy Gayle will be the guest speaker. $20. The Pavilion 1800 North Downing Road Angleton. AngletonChamber.org.
7th Annual Great Steak Cook-Off – 4:30pm. The Boys and Girls Club of Bay City invite you to this event and enjoy a great dinner, live and silent auctions, and vote on your favorite contestants. All proceeds raised from this event go directly to the Club. $40. Bay City Civic Center, 201 7th Street, Bay City. 979-244-8865.
MONDAY, MARCH 27 Open Audition For Aladdin -– 4:30pm. Missoula Children’s Theater Production will hold open auditions for kids K-12. Students will rehearse all week to present Aladdin at the 22nd Annual Grand Kids Festival on April 1st. Free. The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Post Office Street, Galveston. The Grand.com. Tinkergarten Open Class! – 10-11:15am. Enjoy time outside with your 1.5-5 year old children including fun & engaging outdoor activities led by Nicole, certified instructor. Free, must RSVP. Tom Bass Regional Park, 3452 Fellows Rd, Pearland. Nicole.Gage@Tinkergarten.com. 832-523-8747.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29 Yoga Time for Toddlers – 10:15-10:45am. Bring your toddler ages 2 1/2 to 5 and let Ms. Stella stretch their imagination and body with yoga. Free. Helen Hall Library, 100 W Walker, League City. 281-554-1113.
looking ahead 2017 SATURDAY, APRIL 1 2017 Women Build 5K Run/Walk – 8am. Each spring, the Bay Area Habitat for Humanity Women Build Project actively engages a diverse group of more than 600 community members through its 5K Walk and Build. $35. Walter Hall Park, 807 Hwy 3 N, League City. BAHFH.org.
THURSDAY, APRIL 6 Galveston FeatherFest – April 6-9. The largest birding festival on the Upper Texas Coast, and the only one with a dedicated photography track! There is something for everyone at FeatherFest. Expert-led excursions by bus, boat, and kayak will visit a variety of habitats. Free to $100. Island Community Center, 4700 Broadway, Galveston. GalvestonFeatherFest.com. 409-974-4932.
SATURDAY, APRIL 8
ongoingevents sunday
wednesday
Galveston’s Own Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Offering locally grown produce, prepared foods and edible farm products. 2508 Postoffice, Galveston. 832-819-1561. Info: Facebook.com/GalvestonsOwnFarmersMarket.
Small Dog Socialization – 7:30-8:15pm. Bring in small dogs to have fun and socialize. Gimme a Bark, 101 E Edgewood Dr, Friendswood. 281482-1911. GimmeABark.com.
Yoga Nidra – 7pm. Opening with a soft flow of yoga asanas to prepare the body and mind for the deep, guided meditation of Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep), this practice serves to calm the restless mind and deepen conscious awareness. Bring towel and mat. $15/ drop-in. The Yoga Haven, 2507 Market St, Galveston. 409-770-9995. TheYogaHaven.net.
monday Yoga 101 – 5:30-6:45pm. With Kathleen. Foundational hatha yoga for students new to yoga or returning to practice. Fine tune basic skills that will deepen your understanding and enjoyment of the practice of yoga. Bring towel and mat. $15/drop-in. The Yoga Haven, 2507 Market St, Galveston. 409-770-9995. TheYogaHaven.net.
tuesday Senior Tuesday – All day. On Tuesdays, anyone 65 years and up can visit Moody Gardens for $5/attraction per senior. Restrictions may apply. Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston. 800-582-4673. Details: MoodyGardens.com. Meditation – 9:30-10:30am. Unity Bay Area Houston, 1911 Hwy 3 S, League City. 281-554-2450. UnityOfBayArea.org.
thursday Oneness Blessing Meditation – 6:30-8pm. Visit for a unique experience that brings each person into a closer connection with one another and God. Unity Bay Area Houston, 1911 Hwy 3 S League City. 281-554-2450. UnityOfBayArea.org.
saturday Clear Lake Shores Farmers’ Market – 9am1pm. A nonprofit outlet operated by volunteers offering locally grown fruit, vegetables and other homemade products. Texas certified farmers’ market. 1020 Marina Bay Dr, Clear Lake Shores. FarmersMarketAtCLS.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 10am. A dynamic flow class using surya namaskar (sun salutations) as a thread woven throughout the practice. This dynamically paced series builds internal heat, strength, stamina, focus and flexibility. Prior yoga experience is recommended. Bring towel and mat. $15/drop-in. The Yoga Haven, 2507 Market St, Galveston. 409-770-9995. TheYogaHaven.net.
The sweetest of all sounds is praise. ~Xenophon
Spring Sparkle: Community-wide Clean up Event – 8am-2pm. To keep Friendswood beautiful we will have shredding services, garage sale, wildlife rehabilitation and more. Centennial Park, 2200 S. Friendswood Dr, Friendswood. Parks and Recreation Department, 281-996-3220. Carnival For A Cause – 10:30am-6pm. $.25 tickets for games, entertainment (The Line Up), vendors, food, drinks and down home fun. Free. Resource & Crisis Center Future Home, 1204 45th St., Galveston. 409-763-1441.
SATURDAY, APRIL 16 Easter in the Gardens – 11am. Event where kids ages 9 and under are invited to search for the golden eggs in our fun-filled egg hunts. A variety of activities will be offered: face painting, games for prizes, petting zoo. Free. Moody Gardens, 1 Hope Blvd., Galveston. Galveston.com.
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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Info@NA-SETexas.com to request our media kit ACUPUNCTURE
COUNSELING
HOOKED ON ACUPUNCTURE
GALVESTON BRAIN CHANGERS
Clint McCallum, LAc 2505 Market St, Galveston 409-241-3199 HookedOnAcupuncture.com
Dr. Stephanie McClung 3607 Broadway Ave, Galveston 409-300-3117 GalvestonBrainChangers.com
Hooked on Acupuncture community clinic in Galveston is a healing place that is affordable, welcoming, nurturing, inspiring and educational. We heal with acupuncture and herbs. See ad, page 8.
AKASHIC RECORDS SUZIE Q Spiritual Reader & Medium Galveston & Brazoria Counties 832-790-7888, SusieQConnects@gmail.com SusieQConnects.com Referred to as the Book of Life, the Akashic Records are your soul records. A consultation offers deep levels of understanding & guidance, supporting you in living life from your authentic essence. Call now to learn more!
BEAUTY & SKINCARE POOFY ORGANICS WITH ORGANIC FELECIA Felecia Hunt, Independent Consultant League City 832-226-6957, OrganicFelecia@gmail.com OrganicFelecia.PoofyOrganics.com Who says ORGANIC needs to be boring or expensive? ALL gluten and cruelty-free, nonGMO, most offerings USDA Organic. 500+ products made in the USA for women, men, kids, babies, & home. Contact me for a free catalog.
CHIROPRACTIC BAY COLONY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Donna Sanders 350 FM 517 W, Dickinson 281-337-3337 BayColonyChiros.com
Specializing in reducing symptoms of many disorders by improving the brain & body’s ability to relax utilizing neurofeedback and Christian counseling. Our goal is to help our clients achieve improved physical, emotional, and spiritual health. See ad, page 11.
DRUM CIRCLES
1021 61st Street, Galveston 281-546-3725 Facebook.com/340Steamers Offering commercial grade household streamers for deep cleaning WITHOUT toxic fumes or chemicals. Lots of before/after pictures on our FB page, call now for a FREE in-home demo!
HEALTH & WELLNESS SUPPLEMENTS PLEXUS WORLDWIDE
Sara Blumenfeld, Facilitator League City & Surrounding Areas 512-659-6694 DrumCircle@DrummingTogether.org DrummingTogether.org
Mandy Merritt Independent Ambassador #1294857 832-819-6875 PlexusSlim.com/GoWithYourGut
Customized theme-based Drum Circles for your group or business using the researchbacked HealthRHYTHMS® protocol. Contact Sara to explore the benefits and possibilities of this unique and powerful experience! See ad, page 21.
I get paid to buy health improving supplements from myself, and you can too! Plexus offers the best compensation plan in the industry with quality, proven products. Be on a team with supportive, experienced leaders who will give you the tools you need to succeed! New clients: mention Natural Awakenings for a special discount. See ad, page 7.
EDUCATION PAT FREEZE Special Education Advocate League City & Surrounding Areas 281-733-0422 PFreezeAdvocate.com I work with parents of special needs children to help them get the educational services their children need. I can guide parents through the confusing process and make sure their voices are heard in ARD meetings.
HEALTH FOOD STORE HEALTH FOOD COTTAGE 1840 7th Street, Bay City 979-245-3833 HFCottage.com Offering supplements, wellness products, specialty foods including gluten free and vegan options. Our experienced staff can help you find the RIGHT wellness products. Mention Natural Awakenings for 10% off Tuesdays!
FITNESS STUDIO BAY AREA PILATES TX 607 S Friendswood Dr, Suite 21, Friendswood 281-797-6442 UndergroundPilatesTX.com
See ad, page 9.
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NA-SETexas.com
South Houston/Galveston Edition
340 STEAMERS
DRUMMING TOGETHER
Underground Pilates& Barre is a fitness studio implementing the equipment and techniques of Joseph Pilates and Total Barre™. It is a fully equipped studio, offering private, semi-private and small group classes with our certified instructors. See ad, page 18.
We use the most current techniques with gentle chiropractic care to alleviate pain and ailments throughout the body. Stop by to learn more about natural solutions to your common health problems.
GREEN PRODUCTS
NATURAL LIVING ORGANIC CO-OP 219 N Michigan Ave, League City 832-632-2937 ShopNaturalLiving.com SE Texas’s ONLY 100% GMO Free Organic Food Co-op. Offering the community locally grown produce, dry goods and free-range meats. Allergen-free baked goods and bulk herbs. Come in to learn more! OPEN: Mon, Tues 11a-2p; Wed, Thurs 9a-6p; Fri 9a-7p; Sat 9a-4p (closed Sun).
HEALTHY WATER WATERTREE BY THE BAY
THE YOGA HAVEN
PSYCHIC MEDIUM
2507 Market St, Galveston 409-770-9995 TheYogaHaven.net
HEAVEN KNOWS
3538 E NASA Parkway, Seabrook 281-917-1316 Facebook.com/WaterTreeByTheBay TheWaterTreeStore.com
Heather Hildebrand 1120 Nasa Parkway, Ste 220A, Clear Lake 409-457-4375 HeatherHildebrand.com
Offering great tasting alkaline water with optimum filtration – like nature with no electricity or chemicals. Pure H2O with good minerals reintroduced. Also providing hydrogen water, refill stations, portable solutions and home filtration equipment (reverse osmosis & chlorine removal). See ad, page 9.
I am a Psychic Medium, Angel Therapy Practitioner, Speaker & Spiritual Counselor. I help people work through life transitions, whether connecting with a deceased loved one, channeling messages from their angels or through my teachings and workshops. Set up an appointment through my website. See ad, page 29.
HOLISTIC CENTER ISLAND BRAINWORKS, LLC Brainwave Optimization® 2220 Post Office St, Galveston 713-299-2277/409-599-7268 IslandBrainWorks.com
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Brainwave Optimization ® (BWO) is science-based, effective and holistic; a noninv asive method of achieving brain balance and harmony. By es acting like a mirror to brain t to n , isla n d patterns, BWO allows the brain to auto-correct itself with individually tailored real-time methodology for brainwave activity using EEG technology. Appointments only. See ad, page 25. rainwork s db
HYPNOSIS SOUTHEAST HYPNOSIS CENTER Dr. Rose Klein 607 S Friendswood Dr #1, Friendswood 281-996-8000 SoutheastHypnosis.com Southeast Hypnosis Center has helped thousands of people make positive changes in their lives through personalized one-on-one hypnosis sessions to stop smoking, lose weight, improve confidence and reduce stress. Call for free hypnosis interview. See ad, page 3.
ROLFING STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION BAYOU ROLFING Phillip McLain, Certified Rolfer 1002 Gemini St, Houston 281-910-4782 RolfingHoustonTexas.com Enhance your posture and release muscle tension by experiencing this unique massage technique which works on connective tissue to release, realign and balance the whole body. Call today for a consultation & mention Natural Awakenings!
SPORTS NUTRITION NUTRISHOP PEARLAND 5038 W Broadway, Pearland 713-436-5444 NutriShopPearland.com
Follow our Facebook page Natural Awakenings of Southeast Texas and we'll alert you of upcoming happenings and events.
Our goal is to offer the most competitive prices for the most effective, highquality sports nutrition & supplements, weight loss, and vitamin products. NUTRISHOP’S mission is to help you succeed in all your health and fitness goals and aspirations. Free IN-Body Analysis Test! See ad, page 21.
YOGA
MASSAGE WELLNESS INTEGRATION CENTER
For 10 years offering the path of yoga for vibrant body, awakened mind and open heart, the studio provides an inspiring environment for yoga classes. Daily classes for students of all levels; special workshops and events offered. See ad, page 19.
AFRO YOGA
5517 West Broadway St, Suite D, Pearland 832-294-9640 WellnessLC.com
Pearland & Friendswood 281-451-1676 AfroYogaInternational.com
We l l n e s s c e n t e r featuring massage and yoga, and offering reflexology and reiki. We strive to provide our community healing services to support individual wellness needs. Book online any time at WellnessIC.com. New clients: mention Natural Awakenings for a special discount.
Explore ways to feel easeful in your own body using breath and gentle deliberate movement as your tools. Private and small group sessions serve all ages: athletes, veterans, seniors, pre/postsurgery, families, and pre/post-natal. Call for more information.
Go to Facebook.com/NASETexas
natural awakenings
March 2017
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WANT TO CONNECT WITH OUR READERS? THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL CALENDAR AND MARKETING PLANNER
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Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at: Contact us today for marketing opportunities:
409-939-8156 • Info@NA-SETexas.com