Natural Awakenings of Greater Baton Rouge

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Natural Facial Essentials Barre Your Way to Fitness Holiday Pet Treats

December 2015 | Greater Baton Rouge Edition | NABatonRouge.com

OUR MISSION: Providing an honest and safe place for one to reach an optimal level of dental health, centered on whole body wellness, that is built around the genuine understanding of the values unique to the individual.

Guided by the principles of our faith, we create an innovative workplace of likeminded individuals who understand that success is achieved, when we give more than we receive.

Our growth is focused to develop an elite organization driven to deliver quality without compromise, while representing confidence without prejudice.

Dr. Clay Couvillion is a member of the American Academy of Dental Oncology, which creates better health outcomes and quality of life for individuals battling cancer through optimal dental health.

Sullivan Dental Center offers a full array of holistic dentistry services to help you achieve optimal dental health.

Now offeriNg...

An all natural, simple holistic procedure, using no chemicals or foreign substances, that virtually eliminates dry sockets and post operative infection for any dental surgery.

Dr. Clay Couvillon, General Dentist • Dr. Frank Sullivan, General Dentist • Dr. Candice Sullivan, Pediatric Dentist

Come See Us for Your Complimentary Office intrOductiOn! St. Francisville • 225-224-8444 • SullivanDental.com

contents 8 5 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 10 globalbriefs 13 health&beauty spotlight

10 14 healingways 18 greenliving 20 fitbody

22 healthykids

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24 naturalpet

26 calendar 27 classifieds 29 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 225-238-1200 or email Publisher@NABatonRouge.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

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

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NABatonRouge.com or submit online at NABatonRouge.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.

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

13 THIS BRITISH INVASION 14 IS GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN

by Elisa Smith

14 NATURAL FACIAL ESSENTIALS

Few Skincare Product Labels Tell the Whole Story

by Linda Sechrist

16 ACHIEVING OUTER

BEAUTY THROUGH INNER HEALTH

by Elisa Smith

18 DANGERS IN THE COSMETIC BAG

Choose Safe and Healthy Natural Beauty Aids

18

by Kathleen Barnes

20 BARRE YOUR WAY

22

TO BETTER FITNESS

Ballet-Inspired Workouts Create Long and Lean Muscles

by Lynda Bassett

22 GENEROUS

PINT-SIZED GIVERS Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

24

24 EAT, BARK AND BE MERRY

Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

natural awakenings

December 2015

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Editor Jamie Shakotko Local Writer Elisa Smith Local Advertising Curtis Shakotko Design & Production Melanie Rankin Proofreader Randy Kambic Distribution Celinda Wilson

MAIL/PHONE/FAX/WEB: P.O. Box 77064 Baton Rouge, LA 70879 Phone: 225-238-1200 Fax: 225-238-1201 NABatonRouge.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $20 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

015—have you ever had a December when you looked back on the year and couldn’t decide if January seemed like just a week ago, or if it seemed like a century? That was the Shakotko family’s 2015. We had our ups and downs and eventually ended our year in a way I had never imagined in 2014.

I began the year in a lot of pain. My lower back had been bothering me for two years, and my reluctant trip to a doctor confirmed what I had feared: treatment was going to be more ongoing and invasive than I was comfortable with. I researched ways to help back pain and kept hearing about floatation therapy. Since Baton Rouge did not offer this service, my husband and I drove to New Orleans, the closest city to offer floatation therapy, for a one-hour session. The relief was immediate and lasted for two months.

Around the same time, my husband made a major career change. A partner in a successful company, he sold his portion of the venture to go on his own. He had a desire to start something new and began using his background in business management to help other businesses succeed. But he still felt as though he were waiting for something.

In the summer, we took a trip to Lloydminster, Canada, to visit my husband’s family. When we arrived, there were over 140 area forest fires, and the smoke was everywhere. Combined with the cigarette smoke produced by my fatherin-law, the air became nearly impossible for me to breathe. I was suffering acute respiratory distress in a foreign country. Unsure of where to turn, we were pointed to an alternative health center offering dry salt therapy. We decided to try a 45-minute session, and, similar to my experience with the floatation therapy, results were immediate. I could actually breathe.

As we returned home, I turned to my husband and asked why Baton Rouge couldn’t have businesses offering floatation and dry salt therapy. It just didn’t seem fair! I couldn’t actually see the lightbulb begin to flash over my husband’s head, but I’m sure it reflected the light in his eyes.

In November, the next-to-the-last month of 2015, my husband and I opened FLEAUXT – Floatation and Dry Salt Therapy. The response has been overwhelming, and we couldn’t be happier with our unexpected path. We’ve met so many people who are familiar with both therapies and are really excited that our community finally offers them.

We invite you to stop by and take a tour during this holiday season. FLEAUXT offers two private float rooms, plus an adult dry salt therapy room and a children’s dry salt therapy room. Since I stay pretty busy with this magazine, chances are you will meet my husband, Curtis, when you visit. Be sure to tell him you saw FLEAUXT in Natural Awakenings of Greater Baton Rouge, and let us know what new adventures 2016 brings for you!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas,

Jamie Shakotko, Publisher NABatonRouge.com

glossy IS NOT green

newsbriefs Raindrop Technique and Massage Discount in December

What Body type are you?

Free dINNer SeMINar Stress, Hormones & Health

Portobello’s Grill, George Oneal Rd.

December 18th • 6pm

L

icensed Practical Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist Olivia Bennett, of Facilitating Healing, LLC, in Denham Springs, is offering $10 off a onehour massage and $15 off the regular price of Raindrop Technique this month. Gift certificates are available.

Bennett specializes in Raindrop Therapy Technique, a unique, targeted massage that uses therapeutic-grade Young Living (YL) Essential Oils for a deeply harmonizing, rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Developed by YL founder Gary Young, the technique draws from his experience with the Native American Lakota wellness traditions, helping to realign the body structurally and electrically. Bennett also offers therapeutic and deep tissue massage to help with relaxation, pain and stress relief.

Join Dr. Buchert and discover what really works for permanent weight loss, increased energy and improved overall health through a functional wellness approach.

Limited Space Available!

Call Kim today to reserve your spot, and for more upcoming dates

(225) 250-1025 ext. 702

Learn how horMoNe IMBaLaNCeS:

Connect • Transform • Be Well

myminthealth.com

• Distort your body and prevent weight loss even with dieting and exercise.

• Affect your sleep cycles, carbohydrate cravings, and fat burning.

• Learn why “Counting Calories” doesn’t work.

Location: 315 N. Range Ave., Denham Springs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Bennett at 318-792-5073. See ad, page 10.

Christmas Toy Drive for Abused Children

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afe Voyage Tattoo, in Denham Springs, is collecting new and unused toys, dress-up clothes and books for the Baton Rouge Children’s Advocacy Center (BRCAC) through December 15.

There are over 400 children in the BRCAC program, a local nonprofit agency providing forensic interviewing, advocacy and trauma-focused therapy to children who have experienced abuse. The agency aims to maximize each child’s chance for healing through intervention in a childcentered environment. Free therapy is available to youngsters who have suffered from trauma.

Noël Andrus, wife of Safe Voyage’s owner and a licensed master social worker and family advocate for BRCAC, says, “Donated items will assist in providing comfort and courage during such a challenging time in their lives.” Toys will also be used in the center’s play therapy room to help begin the road to healing.

Location: 2648 S. Range Ave. For more information, call 225-664-4005 or visit BatonRougecac.org. See ad, page 21.

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December 2015

5

newsbriefs

News to Share?

Yoga Bliss Offers Yoga Teacher Training

Do you have a special event in the community?

Are you opening a new office or moving?

Recently become certified in a new modality?

Let us know about it!

Y

oga Bliss, a Yoga Alliance-certified school, will begin a 200- and 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training in January 2016. Led by owner Peyton Fisher, the classes will take place at the Highland Road studio and run through May.

Teacher training immerses students in a yoga practice and will provide them with the tools needed to expand practice and encourage enlightenment. All levels of practitioners are welcome.

With nearly 20 years of yoga experience, Fisher encourages all students to practice free of judgment and expectation, and simply enjoy the journey. He has traveled globally, learning from various yoga instructors.

Location: 7384 Highland Rd., Kenilworth Plaza, 2nd Fl., Baton Rouge. For more information, call 225-663-2381 or visit YogaBlissBatonRouge.com. See ad, page 18.

Detox Programs Available at Mint Health

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int Health, in Baton Rouge, is offering doctordesigned seven-day or 28-day detox programs that include detox instructions, eating guide and email support from the Mint Health coach. Safe, easy and effective, both programs help reset and cleanse the body. They can be extended for clients who need more help.

Mint Health helps get to the root cause of health issues and creates a personalized plan to optimize health and wellness. Proprietor Dr. Betsy Buchert, an obstetrician/gynecologist, recently completed training from the Institute for Functional Medicine. She says, “We are what we eat, drink, breathe and touch, and we can’t eliminate the environmental chemicals we are exposed to.”

Location: Woman’s Hospital, Physician Office Building, 500 Rue De La Vie, Ste. 4, Baton Rouge. For more information, call 225-250-1025, ext. 702 or visit MyMintHealth.com/detox. See ad, page 5.

LifeVantage Releases an Anti-Aging Skincare Line

J

News Briefs We welcome news items relevant to the subject matter of our magazine. We also welcome any suggestions you may have for a news item.

Call 225-238-1200 for additional information, or visit NABatonRouge.com

oAnn Guidry, independent distributor for LifeVantage, announces the release of a 4-step skincare system, formulated with Nrf2 technologies. LifeVantage is a science-based nutraceutical company and creator of Protandim.

The skincare line has been tested in independent third-party clinical studies, which revealed the regimen to reduce the visible signs of aging by utilizing Nrf2 technologies to mitigate the visible effects of skin damage caused by oxidative stress. When used together, the regimen offers cumulative anti-aging benefits and provides protection against the environmental assault on the skin that consumers will be able to see and feel.

For more information, call Guidry at 225-773-8548. See ad, page 21.

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

NABatonRouge.com

Baton Rouge Green to Hold Pick Event

localhealthbrief

B

aton Rouge Green’s City Citrus program will hold its second annual pick event to benefit the community. Beginning at 9 a.m., December 12, volunteers will harvest the extra fruit from trees in the program. All fruit harvested will be donated to local food banks and food pantries.

With the mantra, “Share the Fruit,” the City Citrus project provides free and public sources of fruit to the community.

Citrus Shepherds establish and maintain Satsuma and other citrus trees in open, underused spaces around the city. This effort helps interested groups establish public citrus trees and guides community members in maintaining these sites for the benefit of the community.

With a program that is designed to be scalable and sustainable, the fruit is considered open-source and is available for public grazing or public distribution by Citrus Shepherds.

Residents of Baton Rouge with too much fruit on their trees can register online to participate in the program.

To register trees, visit BatonRougeGreen.com, click on the City Citrus logo and on Pick Event. For more information, call 225-381-0037.

Louisiana State University’s Campus Sustainability Collecting Old Shoes

I

n partnership with the Nike Grind Program and Louisiana State University’s (LSU) Department of Residential Life, LSU Campus Sustainability is collecting unwanted or used shoes of any brand and type (except heels) for recycling. Shoes can be dropped off at the residential halls through December 12.

Over the past 20 years, Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe and Nike Grind Programs have collected worn-out shoes bound for the landfill, along with pre-consumer waste, and turned the material into sports courts and other products.

LSU Campus Sustainability was initiated in 2008 to help facilitate collaboration required by student, faculty and staff to benchmark, set goals and move the campus forward in its sustainability achievements.

For more information, call Maylen Aldana at 225-578-5557 or email MAldana@lsu.edu.

Keep Your Teeth for a Lifetime

E

veryone wants a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime, but many people assume that oral health automatically declines with age. Clay Couvillon, DDS, of Sullivan Dental Center, believes that people can maintain good oral health at any age, and that oral health is closely tied to overall health. “As a practicing dentist for over a decade, I have seen firsthand the rapid breakdown of people’s teeth as they enter their senior years.

Clay Couvillon, DDS As the body’s systemic health declines, a decline in oral health often follows,” he says.

Couvillon notes that proper pH of both blood and saliva are critical for overall health, and that if the pH of saliva remains too acidic —around 5.5—for too long, brushing and flossing aren’t enough to mitigate the detrimental effect of that acid environment on one’s teeth. A dentist can easily measure saliva pH and also note areas of calcium deposits, which is why regular dental visits are so important. Early treatment is the key to protecting dental health and avoiding potentially costly and/or painful issues down the road.

Because the body’s overall health and oral health are so closely related, it’s important to monitor the pH of the blood, as well. Blood levels that are too acidic can cause a myriad of problems, including causing the body to release excess calcium from supporting structures like teeth and bones.

“There is hope for people who want to keep their teeth for a lifetime,” says Couvillon, “and it starts with understanding what causes the hardest substance in the human body, enamel, to deteriorate. Monitoring the pH of the mouth and understanding what calcium deposits on the teeth really mean can do wonders toward maintaining overall health well into the senior years.”

Sullivan Dental Center is located at 5436 Commerce St. in St. Francisville. For more information, call 225-635-4422 or visit SullivanDental.com. See ad, page 2. natural awakenings

December 2015

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healthbriefs

Pain and Depression Ebb with Floatation Therapy

N

ew research from Sweden has found that floatation therapy helps increase sleep quality, reduce pain and relieve anxiety and depression.

Floatation therapy, sometimes called isolation therapy, consists of floating in a tank of water with minimized interruptions and sensory stimuli.

Researchers from Karlstad University divided 65 people into two groups. One group underwent 12, 45-minute floatation therapy sessions for seven weeks, while the other group did not. Both groups were given a battery of physiological and psychological tests before and after the treatment period. The therapy was conducted using three commercial floatation therapy centers that provided sensory isolation systems to promote relaxation as part of the treatment.

Compared to the control group, the floatation therapy group reported significant decreases in pain, anxiety, depression and stress levels and better sleep quality. The floatation group’s average depression scores went from 4.42 to 2.25, while the control group’s scores barely budged. The worst pains among the floatation group dropped from 64 to 40 on the scale.

People Double Up on Calories After the Holidays

D

espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and after-holiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “less-healthy”.

Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations. Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more calorie-dense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

NABatonRouge.com

ASBESTOS FOUND IN CRAYONS AND CHILDREN’S TOYS

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esearch from the Environmental Working Group’s Action Fund has determined that some popular children’s toys contain a chemical that previous research has linked to lung disease and lung cancers. The researchers tested 28 boxes of crayons and 21 crime-themed toys at the Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina. They found that four of the crayon brands and two of the crimescene toys contained asbestos.

All of the asbestos-containing toys were manufactured in China. The products included the Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brands of crayons, the EduScience Deluxe Forensics Lab Kit and the Inside Intelligence Secret Spy Kit. The latter two brands contained asbestos within the fingerprint powders.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos from all sources is responsible for up to 15,000 U.S. deaths each year.

POTATOES DON’T PACK ON POUNDS

R

esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain. The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating highGI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

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globalbriefs

Fungus Among Us

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

Post-It Progress

3M Requires Paper Sources to Meet Sustainable Standards A new sustainability policy by the 3M Corporation, maker of Post-it notes, has drawn support for its goal of making a minimal impact on forests, wildlife and human rights. 3M paper-based products and packaging require pulp and paper from sources around the world. Working in collaboration with ForestEthics and Greenpeace, the company launched a comprehensive review of all of its pulp and paper procurement expectations to ensure the materials are produced from sustainably logged timber.

3M will now hold paper and pulp suppliers accountable to one of the highest standards in the industry for environmental protection and respect of human rights, including tracing origins and obtaining consent of indigenous peoples and local communities before logging operations occur. The company intends to publish semiannual updates of its progress online.

Source: ForestEthics.org

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)based pesticide in 2006. An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.” This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out. The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/Fungus PesticidePatent.

Sentient Beings

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence

Joy

Essential Oil Blend ❊ inspires a joyful heart ❊ promotes emotional well-being ❊ beautiful when worn as a perfume ❊ inspires togetherness ❊ eases occasional nervousness, stress & tension ❊ promotes peace Jeannie Causey, LPN, CNHP Wellness Coach Event Coordinator YL Member 1265021 DaystarWay@gmail.com 225-572-3376

Cathy Duplechin

Wellness Coach Event Coordinator YL Member 1253105 Cathy.Duplechin@gmail.com 225-347-4442

ZytoCompass Scans by appointment

Olivia Bennett, LPN, LMT Massage Therapist #LA7511 Raindrop Technique YL Member 1395291 FacilitatingHealingLLC@gmail.com 318-792-5073

The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings. Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.” The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-to-medium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

Find a link to the legislation at Tinyurl. com/NewZealandSentienceBill.

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

NABatonRouge.com

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health&beautyspotlight

This British Invasion is Good for Your Skin

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rganic cosmetJapan and Dubai, NYR ics are growing Organic is rapidly gaining in popularity as attention in the U.S. with more people are disa wide array of products covering that it is just as for the entire family. important to be careful “Though NYR Organic of what we put on our is known mostly for its bodies as what we put award-winning cosmetics in them. For more than for women, the company 30 years, London-based offers healthy skincare Neal’s Yard Remedies products for the entire (NYR) has been comfamily,” says Benson. mitted to its mission “With a line of products Hope Maria Benson of encouraging a more for men, babies and chilnatural, holistic way of health, beauty dren, there’s something for everyone on and well-being by offering a line of your Christmas list.” There are products organic skin care and beauty products for bath and shower, essential oils and through its apothecary stores and holishome fragrance, even organic teas. The tic spas in 20 countries. Recently, current most popular products the products became available include Frankincense Intense in the United States through Concentrate, Aromatherapy NYR Organic Independent Essential Oil Diffuser, Wild Consultants.

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The extensive online Consultant Hope Maria catalog and direct shipBenson chose to represent ping make ordering easy NYR Organic because and there are also optheir products are “not portunities to earn free only organic, but ethically products and discounts. sourced, and developed “It’s easy to introduce by herbalists and aromafriends and family to NYR therapists.” NYR Organic is the world’s Organic through hosting a party,” Benfirst health and beauty company to son claims, adding that product knowlreceive a perfect score for ethics by edge is not required, and guests can The Ethical Company Organization, an shop either in-person or online. “Also, independent body with a 15-point gradthis is a wonderful business opportunity ing system in the areas of environmental for anyone with an interest in organic responsibility and human and animal skincare. NYR Organic customers really rights. Its products have won numerous love these products.” awards, including Best Skincare Brand, Best Certified Organic Product and Best For more information, call 225-716Baby Bottom Butter.

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natural awakenings

December 2015

13

healingways

Natural Facial Essentials Few Skincare Product Labels Tell the Whole Story

by Linda Sechrist

A

t age 25, Paula natural include synthetic The skin, your Begoun, author chemicals, meaning that protective organ, the term organic doesn’t of The Original Beauty Bible and other apply to the entire formula. is meant to be bestselling books on Fragrances are common “worn” for life. It is synthetic ingredients, as is skincare, makeup and hair care, read her first not a luxury, but a the triethanolamine that’s label on a skincare prodoften used to adjust the necessity to take pH or as an emulsifying uct she was using. Although she’d tried many the best possible agent to convert acid to different products to cona salt, or stearate, as the care of it. trol her acne and eczema base for a cleanser. since age 11, she hadn’t To help consumers ~Charlene Handel avoid overpaying for skinthought about the contents, which was partially care products which may why she was distraught to discover that not be as natural or organic as touted, acetone (nail polish remover) was the Begoun encourages skepticism regardfourth ingredient listed. ing marketing messages. She suggests

That moment became the inspirathat an important key is to choose the tion for Begoun’s lifetime devotion to best formulation for an individual’s skin skincare research and education and type and specific skin concerns. customer advocacy. Today, as founder

“There are no U.S. Food and Drug of the Seattle-based Paula’s Choice Agency-approved standards for the Skincare, she continues to help women organic labeling of skincare products understand when product claims are sold in salons and spas or over-themisleading or factual. counter. The cosmetics industry hasn’t agreed on one set of standards either.

Buyer Be Aware U.S. Department of Agriculture certifiOne of Begoun’s core conclusions is cation is cost-prohibitive for most small that the terms organic and all natural are cosmetic companies that use clean, largely responsible for fueling the miscertified organic ingredients, so some conception that all synthetic ingredients uncertified organic products exist and in cosmetics are automatically bad and it’s wise to read labels,” explains Elina that all organic or natural ingredients are Fedotova, founder of the nonprofit Asautomatically good. She further notes sociation of Holistic Skin Care Practithat many products labeled organic and tioners. She counsels that we Google

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

NABatonRouge.com

any unfamiliar ingredient to learn if it’s toxic or safe.

Fedotova, a cosmetic chemist and aesthetician who makes her professional skincare line, Elina Organics, by hand in a laboratory, compares the difference between salon and commercial products to fine dining versus fast food. “Salon products are made in far smaller quantities than mass-produced brands and offer higher concentrations of ingredients. They are generally shipped directly to the salon and have a higher turnover rate. Because they don’t have to be stored for indeterminate periods or endure warehouse temperatures, they are fresher and more potent,” she says.

Although a facial can easily be performed at home with salon or commercial products, Fedotova, who owns spas in Chicago and Kalamazoo, Michigan, recommends having a professional facial every four to five weeks. Charlene Handel, a certified holistic esthetician, holistic skin care educator and owner of Skin Fitness Etc., in Carlsbad, California, agrees.

Sequenced Steps

Handel chooses treatments that penetrate and nourish the layer of skin below the epidermis, the outermost layer, consisting of mostly dead cells, with 100 percent holistic (edible) products and freshly brewed organic tea compresses. “Without a gentle exfoliation, the first step in any effective facial, not even skincare formulas with penetration enhancers, can nourish the lower layer of live cells. One key nourishment among others is vitamin C, an antioxidant which brightens, protects against sun damage and promotes collagen production,” advises Handel.

She explains that skin cells produced in the deepest layer gradually push their way to the epidermis every 30 days and die. Dead cells can pile up unevenly and give the skin’s surface a dry, rough, dull appearance. As we age, cell turnover time increases to 45 or 60 days, which is why gentle sloughing is necessary. This can be done at home three times a week with a honey mask.

Another form of exfoliation performed in a salon uses a diamondtipped, crystal-free microdermabrasion

machine to gently buff away the surface layer of skin.

An additional option is a light glycolic acid and beta hydroxy acid treatment. This can be purchased over the counter or prepared at home using organic papaya (glycolic) and pineapple (beta hydroxyl) for more even skin tone.

These treatments, sometimes referred to as acid peels, can be applied to the face for no more than 10 to 15 minutes, typically every two to four weeks or every few months.

Treatment serums, moisturizing lotions and eye and neck creams are all elements of a complete facial. The simplest sequence of application is layering from the lightest to heaviest—eye cream, serum and moisturizer. Give them a minute or two to absorb. No facial is complete without a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, applied last.

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Follow with organic toner per skin type.

Dry complexion: Cleanse the skin with a mix of baking soda and coconut oil.

Gently scrub on and rinse off.

Oily complexion: Cleanse the skin using a mixture of yogurt and baking soda. Gently scrub on and rinse off.

Refresh the skin after cleansing with distilled rose water or herbal tea, adding in a few drops each of lemon juice and a favorite essential oil. For dry skin, choose chamomile tea; for oily skin, go with burdock root tea and juniper berry essential oil.

Exfoliate the skin with a gentle, healthy alternative to chemical peels by massaging with organic papaya; its enzymes help dissolve dead cells.

It also infuses skin with beta carotene and other beauty nutrients.

After rinsing skin, apply a mashed banana mask, which benefits all complexions by nourishing and moisturizing the skin. It’s also high in antiinflammatory vitamin B6.

Remove the banana with a wet wash cloth, and then apply a favorite moisturizer. Dry skin does well with coconut oil. For very dry skin, use shea butter or sesame oil.

Use a zinc oxide-based natural sunblock, especially after a facial, because the skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet rays after exfoliation. Eating foods rich in antioxidants helps prevent sun damage.

Source: Courtesy of Charlene Handel

Source: Courtesy of Elina Fedotova

Fruit Smoothie Mask Prep time: 15 minutes Increase sun protection with this antioxidant- and resveratrol-rich soothing smoothie mask. Use fresh, organic ingredients.

6 medium strawberries 12 red grapes ½ banana 1 Tbsp honey Combine first three ingredients in a standard or bullet blender until mixture becomes creamy. Remove and put in a bowl. Gently fold honey into mixture.

Cleanse face.

Apply mask to skin, preferably with a fan brush, and lightly massage with fingertips for two minutes. Allow to sit on skin for 20 minutes.

Remove mask with warm water.

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natural awakenings

December 2015

15

Achieving

OUTER BEAUTY Through

INNER HEALTH

by Elisa Smith

E

ach year Americans spend billions of dollars on beauty products in an effort to improve their appearance.

However, it turns out that beauty really is an inside job. Nutrition, hydration, detoxification and stress reduction all play an important role in achieving and maintaining optimal health that radiates from within.

Numerous studies have shown that inflammation plays a significant role in the aging process. Betsy Buchert, M.D., has witnessed the role inflammation can play in general health and quality of life first hand. “Skin and weight problems are nearly always an expression of a deeper issue going on that you will do best to address at the root cause,” she says. This philosophy is what motivated her to establish Mint Health, a functional medicine practice with a mission “to alter the trajectory of health, one woman, one man, one family at a time, through innovative root-cause evaluation, empowerment and sustainable lifestyle change.”

According to Buchert, chronic low-level inflammation caused by food and environmental chemicals can easily overwhelm the body’s ability to eliminate toxins, making a good detoxification plan imperative. In the short term, subpar detoxification can lead to skin problems and weight gain.

In the long-term, it can lead to more serious health conditions. Mint Health offers doctor-designed seven- and

28-day detox programs that are safe, easy and effective, with longer, more extensive options for patients in need of more in-depth treatment.

Stewart Sommers, of Acupuncture Wellness Center, believes acupuncture can offer a more naturally youthful appearance than injections or surgery.

“The strategic placement of needles can improve blood circulation, which nourishes the skin and improves the complexion,” he says. “The needles also stimulate the skin cells to produce collagen and elastin, the components of healthy, youthful-looking skin.” The sterilized, single-use, very fine (hair-like in size) needles are strategically placed, generating a physiologic response in the body that allows for healing to take place.

Sommers adds that acupuncture and herbal medicine offer systemic improvements, including stress reduction, improved digestion, hormone balance, better sleep and increased energy, making beauty a side effect of improved overall health. A minimum of 10 sessions are recommended, either twice weekly for five weeks or once a week for 10 weeks. Monthly or quarter-

Because stress is known to have aging effects on the body both in physiology and appearance, reducing stress can help to turn back the body’s biological clock.

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ly treatments will maintain and possibly improve the initial results. Treatments can be effective at any age, with benefits that include minimizing or eliminating fine lines, softening deep wrinkles, gently lifting sagging skin, diminishing age spots, clearing redness and skin irritations, reducing under-eye puffiness and restoring a healthy glow. Sommers also recommends that patients eat a healthy and balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and take time to relax and breathe deeply for at least a few minutes every day.

Because stress is known to have aging effects on the body both in physiology and appearance, reducing stress can help to turn back the body’s biological clock. “All day long, our senses are bombarded with stimuli,” says Curtis Shakotko, of Fleauxt, the first establishment to offer floatation and dry salt therapy in Baton Rouge. “We are often exposed to light and sound even as we sleep. Giving our senses a complete rest for just one hour can have enormous health and beauty benefits.”

When it was developed by Dr. John Lilly in 1954, floatation therapy was called Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (R.E.S.T.). It has been successfully used to treat everything from fertility issues to migraines to chronic pain. Studies have shown

that floatation therapy induces theta brain waves, the same waves produced during meditation and deep REM sleep. Floating in shallow water is achieved by using 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt. Rich in magnesium, this salt can improve the body’s circulation and electrolyte balance, and ease muscle pain.

Even non-swimmers and those who may be somewhat claustrophobic can reap the benefits of floatation therapy. Fleauxt’s private floatation tubs are filled with only 10-inches of supersalinated, body-temperature water and each is located within a sound- and light-proof private room equipped with a shower and dressing area. This environment creates a feeling of spaciousness as opposed to confinement.

Aging may be inevitable but physical beauty can be maintained at any age by nourishing the body, mind and spirit with healthy lifestyle choices enhanced by holistic therapies when needed.

Mint Health is located in the Woman’s Hospital Physician Office Building at 500 Rue de la Vie, Ste. 401, Baton Rouge, with satellite offices in Greenwell Springs and Walker. For more information, call 225-250-1025 or visit MyMintHealth.com. See ad, page 5.

Acupuncture Wellness Center is located at 711 Jefferson Hwy., Ste. 8, Baton Rouge. For more information, call 225925-1188 or visit AcupunctureBR.com.

See listing, page 29.

Fleauxt is located at 8312 Jefferson Hwy., Ste. 4, Baton Rouge. For more information, visit call 225-283-0520 or visit Fleauxt.com. See ad, page 32.

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December 2015

17

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Dangers in the Cosmetic Bag

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e all want to look and feel beautiful, often enhancing our best features with assistance from cosmetics. Yet many of us may not be aware of the toxic ingredients contained in products we’re using.

“When the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act was passed 77 years ago, it contained 112 pages of standards for food and drugs, and only one page for cosmetics,” says Connie Engel, Ph.D., science and education manager at the Breast Cancer Fund and its Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, in San Francisco.

While most cosmetic ingredients must be listed on product labels, sometimes their names are hard to recognize, many are toxic and some of the most dangerous ones may not even be listed. Labeled toxins commonly found in cosmetics include endocrine disruptors that can affect our developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune systems. Here are just a few:

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, is found in foundation, pressed powder, loose powder, bronzer, blush, eye shadow and mascara. It can even enhance the toxicity of other chemicals, according to Danish research published in the International Journal of Andrology, and due to its fluorine base, can disrupt iodine absorption, contributing to breast disease including cancer.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and its cousin, hydroxytoluene (BHT),

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are common preservatives found in lip products, liquid makeup and moisturizers that the European Commission on Endocrine Disruption cites as interfering with hormone function. They’ve also been shown to cause kidney damage, according to research from Spain’s Universidad Autónoma de Madrid.

Formaldehyde in many forms, including quaternium-15, coal tar, benzene and mineral oils that are prohibited in the European Union and Japan, are classified as carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

These examples represent the tip of the iceberg of toxic chemicals of concern commonly used in cosmetics.

They further range from allergens and substances that cause non-cancerous and cancerous tumors and organ toxicity to developmental and reproductive impairment, miscarriage and bioaccumulation leading to toxic overload when not excreted.

Fragrances don’t have to be included in label ingredient lists, constituting another major concern, explains Engel.

“Most cosmetics, even eye shadow, contain fragrance, and those fragrances can contain several dozen unlabeled ingredients, including hormone-disrupting phthalates.”

The European Union is the authoritative source on all of these issues.

Based on its CosIng (cosmetic ingredients) database accessed via ec.europa.

eu/consumers/cosmetics/cosing, it has banned scores of toxic chemicals from makeup sold in EU countries.

Safe and Healthy Alternatives Fortunately, safe alternatives are available to enhance our natural beauty.

“Become an educated consumer and read the list of ingredients,” advises Janice Cox, the Medford, Oregon, author of Natural Beauty at Home. “Fewer ingredients and organic components mean safer products.”

Better yet, we can make our own more natural beauty aids. “One advantage of making your own is that you’re in control. You know yourself and your skin and sensitivities,” says Cox. DIY products are easy if intense color isn’t a requirement. “The color many people want is hard to produce with kitchen ingredients,” Cox explains. “You can make clear mascara and eyebrow tamer with castor oil. It’s easy to make lip balms and maybe get a little color by adding berry juice or beet root powder.”

For those that want the look of highquality makeup without toxins, other good alternatives come into play, says Hollywood makeup artist Lina Hanson, author of Eco-Beautiful. “I had been working in the industry for several years before I discovered the toxic ingredients in makeup; I was shocked,” she says.

Equally unsettling, “I also learned that many of the ingredients allowed in the U.S. are banned in the European Union because of their toxicity.”

That knowledge launched Hanson’s quest to create safe, organic, beauty-enhancing products for women, celebrities and everyday people alike.

“So many people these days pay close attention to what they put in their bodies, but not everyone is as careful about what they put on their bodies,” she says. “I want people to understand that you don’t have to sacrifice beauty in going green.”

Hanson warns against so-called “natural” cosmetics that abuse the term and may include harmful preservatives and synthetic ingredients. She assures, “Any product labeled ‘USDA certified organic’ contains 100 percent organic ingredients.” Her book mentions numerous brands she recommends.

Beauty Bonus Tip Healthy, moisturized skin is essential to natural beauty, many experts agree, noting that younger women need to unclog pores to prevent acne. They don’t need much moisturizing, but skin generally becomes drier with age, making good moisturizers important. Cox recommends jojoba oil to effect glowing skin. Hanson likes coconut oil, although she recommends rubbing it in, removing makeup and then taking it off with a hot, wet towel.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (SafeCosmetics.org) has created a helpful app for iPhone and Android users at ThinkDirtyApp.com. Simply download it and scan a store item’s barcode to immediately access information on the product’s toxic ingredients, along with recommendations for healthier alternatives.

Kathleen Barnes is the author of many natural health books, including Food Is Medicine. Connect at Kathleen Barnes.com.

Toxic Ingredients to Avoid n Benzophenone n Butylated compounds, including BHA, BHT n Carbon black n Ethanolamine compounds including DEA, MEA, TEA n Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea) n Heavy metals, including lead (may not be labeled) n Phthalates n PTFE (Teflon) n Silica n Talc n Titanium dioxide n Triclosan Source: Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

DIY Island Lip Gloss 1 tsp grated beeswax 1 tsp grated cocoa butter 1 tsp coconut oil 1 tsp macadamia or other nut oil 1 tsp light sesame oil 1 /8 tsp vitamin E oil Choose organic ingredients when possible. Melt ingredients together in a double boiler or microwave. Add a pinch of beetroot powder for color.

Stir well until all are mixed. Store in a small, clean container.

Recipe courtesy of Janice Cox, EcoBeauty natural awakenings

December 2015

19

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magine having a ballerina’s physique, grace, strength and flexibility. That’s the potential of barre.

“Barre is a combination of ballet, yoga and Pilates principles. We use small, isometric movements to temporarily fatigue muscles and make them long and lean. The so-called fatigue is what causes muscles to shake, and therefore, change,” explains Nadia Yokarini-Kotsonis, a certified barre instructor at Physique Fitness Studio, in Grove City, Ohio. Students use a ballet barre to support themselves while doing the exercises.

Yokarini-Kotsonis is among many former dancers that have embraced barre fitness. Trained in ballet, tap, contemporary and traditional dance in Athens, Greece, she discovered barre when she moved to the U.S. “I fell in love with how challenging it was and the effects and changes I saw in my

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body. I got certified a year later and have been teaching ever since. I’m still in love with practicing it, no matter how tired I might be beforehand,” she says.

Rather than a cardiovascular regimen, “Barre is good for developing core strength. You gain overall flexibility, muscle strength, improved posture and range of motion,” says Lisa Juliet, West Coast regional director of the teacher certification program (Barre Certification.com).

Not Just for Dancers

While barre has had some U.S. presence since the 1950s, “It’s having a resurgence now,” says Charlene Causey, a certified natural health professional and ballet body barre instructor in Pueblo, Colorado.

Newfound interest began on both coasts and is quickly becoming a Midwest mainstay, according to Yokarini-

Kotsonis, who says it’s one of the most popular classes she teaches, and other studios are following suit. She remarks, “Everyone wants to offer barre, and everyone wants to come to a class and see what it’s about.”

“Seniors love it because barre helps improve their balance. It’s also perfect for people working to overcome injuries,” says Juliet. She notes that while women are predominant in classes, the tide is turning a bit toward more gender equity. “Men that enter classes as skeptical come out sweating.” One recently earned his barre teaching certificate.

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“What makes this workout brilliant is that the classes are designed to fit the goals and ability levels of all participants.

Each set of exercises provides options ranging from the beginner to the more advanced barre enthusiast. Effective, yet safe, low-impact techniques provide ongoing challenges,” says Causey.

Those that regularly practice realize many positive effects. “Your body becomes long and lean, similar to a ballet dancer’s. You learn to stand tall and become stronger with each class,” says Yokarini-Kotsonis. However, don’t expect it to be easy. “Even when you do it every day, you’ll still find it extremely challenging,” she adds.

Most teachers individualize modifications for beginners.

“I tell my students to do what they can. There’s no judgment here,” says Causey.

Many yoga teachers offer barre classes as a beneficial complement to other sports and activities such as running.

“It supplements your other endeavors,” notes Causey. Today’s barre classes feature bare feet and typical workout wear, specialized equipment and props, contemporary music and of course, the ballet barre. The whole experience is highly positive and upbeat, says Causey.

Most fitness experts would agree that it’s good to add variety to workouts, and trying something new adds spice to the mix. Plus, for those that keep at it, says Yokarini-Kotsonis, “Barre can be the fastest results-oriented program you can undergo. Expect to see a change in your body in a month if you attend three to four classes a week.”

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December 2015

21

healthykids

Generous Pint-Sized Givers Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

A

mong a parent’s greatest rewards is seeing their children grow up to be productive, contributing members of society, including knowing how to give back and enrich the communities in which they live. Children can start participating in the giving process as toddlers. Having them observe regular charitable acts can make a strong impression and catalyze later independent initiatives.

Learning how to give and developing the associated skill set is a lifelong journey. Giving becomes a way of life—of looking at the world and determining how to help the causes they feel passionate about. Here’s how to take those crucial first steps.

Ask kids how they’d like to help. If giving to a cause is new to the household, explain that the family has many opportunities. Then engage children in a conversation about the general areas they may feel strongly about supporting—perhaps individuals or families in need, animals or wildlife habitat—and start a list of those that the family is interested in.

Next, start researching related local organizations, facilities and institutions, and matching them to the topics on the list. Ideas may include food kitchens, pet shelters and animal

rescues, nature parks, senior citizens’ residences, camps for low-income or physically or mentally challenged children, zoos, museums, aquariums and local libraries.

Make a game plan. Get creative about how to actually help the selected causes. Talk it through together, map out activities—like visiting, donating funds or materials or participating in fundraising efforts—and post the results somewhere at home that is highly visible. “Gamify” it to some degree with tasks that turn into goals that turn into accomplishments that result in chits.

Quick tasks can make a big difference. Clear the clutter. Every six to 12 months, launch an all-family household closet cleaning day that includes the toy chest and maybe the garage. Add nonperishable healthy food items they’ve picked out while grocery shopping.

Make a “donate box” positioned where kids can add to it and deliver the donations often, even if it’s small.

Find ways to raise money for donations. Organize a family or neighborhood yard sale or organic bake sale that involves kids at all stages of the project, and give all or a portion of the proceeds to a selected charity.

Associate getting with giving. For birthdays and holidays, include a

handwritten “certificate of giving” that specifies the amount of money available for them to gift to their favorite charity. Take the child to the charity site to make the monetary donation in person, if possible. For non-local organizations, write a check and have the child include a letter with their thoughts and mail it.

Volunteer to do community service. Public gardens need weeding, historic buildings need painting and food banks need hands. Find goodwill tasks that are age-appropriate and engaging.

Grow the mindset. Tell real-life stories about kids or groups of kids that have found creative ways to give back. Encourage empathy by sharing appropriate stories of struggle. Ask kids, “How would you want people to help you in this situation?” Explain the action the family is taking and the resulting benefit to the recipient.

The conversation might be, “We don’t need to store all this stuff when someone else could really use it.” Or, “I bet there is a kid out there who would really like playing with this toy.

I know you used to love it, but how about if you pass it along to someone else so they can enjoy it as much as you have?” Keep the focus on the people in need and your child’s ability to share an experience through an item.

Establishing an impermanent connection to material things can help kids understand the importance of nurturing relationships over acquiring goods.

Develop a language of giving in the household by creating opportunities to incorporate it into regular conversation. Appropriate comments could share concepts such as seeing ourselves as stewards of the planet and the things we think we own; it’s our duty to help those in need when we have abundance; and if there is ever a time when we are without, we hope that others will think of us and help us.

Teaching children how their thoughts, words and actions impact those around them is a lesson that bears repeating.

Jennifer Jacobson lives in Seattle and has served on the boards of several influential nonprofits and other organizations focused on conservation, education and community.

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Periodontal Therapy Full Mouth Rehabilitation Endodontic Therapy

Laser Dentistry Orthodontics Dentures & Partial Dentures

Dr. Kurt A. LeJeune In the McIlhenny Building • 3138 McIlhenny Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 • www.cypressdental.com natural awakenings

December 2015

23

naturalpet

Eat, Bark and Be Merry Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

A

s with families everywhere, special taste treats are on the menu for many dogs, cats and wild birds during the holiday season.

Owners are cautioned not to share rich, unfamiliar foods from the table that can be detrimental to an animal’s health.

Better fare are homemade treats of organic, safe and tasty ingredients—true gifts from the heart.

Homemade assures the quality of ingredients, avoids unhealthy additives and allows the giver to adjust for individual taste or food sensitivities.

Most healthy recipes can be made from readily available ingredients.

Wild Birds

Offer them a variety of seeds and fresh water. Always use unsalted, unseasoned seeds. Mix harder-to-crack striped sunflower seeds with the smaller black oil version to attract the largest number of birds. Organically grown peanuts in the shell, dried fruit, oranges, pomegranates or rehydrated raisins offer a burst of energy. Impale round fruits, halved, on a small dowel rod attached to the feeding table to hold them in place.

Note that oats go to waste, shelled sunflower seeds spoil and cracked corn attracts raccoons. Pass on any kind of popcorn.

enjoy. Don’t use low-fat peanut butter because birds need to pack in the calories in order to stay warm.

Cats

Organic catnip, fresh or dried and baked into a crunchy treat, will bring kitty running. In recipes, avoid canned tuna because of bisphenol A (BPA) concerns; also minimize the frequency and portion of tuna and salmon treats due to mercury accumulation in the fish.

Unseasoned tuna or salmon packed in water in a pouch is a better choice.

Many recipes labeled for dogs can be converted for cats by making them into smaller bites.

Dogs

“When possible, I put organic and local foods, non-GMO, hormone-and antibiotic-free, grass-fed and humanely raised properties at the top of my list. A healthier dog means fewer

DIY Suet

Mix one part organic peanut butter with five parts organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) corn meal.

Smear into a pinecone to hang from a branch or directly on tree bark for woodpeckers and wrens to

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

NABatonRouge.com

vet visits and more years together,” says Tonya Wilhelm, a dog trainer in Toledo, Ohio. “Buy in bulk from a co-op or farmer and maybe share with friends to get the best price.”

Dehydrated Foods

Dehydrating removes moisture from food while retaining nutrients, and comprises a distinct cooking method.

Stephanie Raya, resident chef at Excalibur Dehydrator, in Sacramento, California, recommends, “For safe chicken and pork, pre-cook before dehydrating. Beef can be dehydrated from a raw state. My Boston terriers also love dehydrated, sweet potato chips.”

A number of commercial dehydrated meat and fish jerkies have been recalled (search DogFoodAdvisor. com/?s=treats). Homemade treats offer superior control of ingredients.

“When I make my pets’ treats, I know what’s in their food, including the herbs used for flavor,” says Raya. After she’s ensured that the food is thoroughly dried, she packs it in vacuum bags and stores them away from light. She notes that dehydrating takes longer than baking, but is cost-effective at 25 to 50 cents an hour. Veggie options include dehydrated zucchini chips, butternut squash chips, cherry tomato bites, matchstick carrots or peach or other fruit slices.

Make it Festive

A cat’s sense of smell is 10 to 15 times better than ours, but is still modest compared to dogs that out-sniff us by a factor of 30 to 60 times; that’s why putting wrapped treats under a holiday tree or in a stocking is a bad idea. Store them securely and then bring them out when it’s time to open gifts. Use blue tissue paper for easy-to-open Hanukkah gifts, red or green for Christmas (bows, yes; ribbons, no). For dogs that love puzzles, placing treats inside a wrapped box adds to the fun.

Remember that rich or unfamiliar foods can make pets sick. Instead, gift them with their own healthy, safe treats from known ingredients so that everyone has a happy holiday.

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Special Holiday Pet Recipes

Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheat a frying pan on medium heat for three minutes. Add coconut oil. Coat the pan evenly.

Chicken Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 cup filtered water 10 oz chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into 2-in cubes ½ cup brown rice, dry 1 cup coconut flour 1 Tbsp ground flax seed Place water, chicken and rice in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer covered, for one hour. Strain and let cool.

Coconut Bites Yields: Approximately 20 cookies 1 orange, peeled, seeded, chopped into bite-size pieces 1 banana, peeled, chopped into bite-size pieces ½ cup coconut flour Lemon zest Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Put the orange and banana into a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Combine blended fruit and coconut flour. Mix well. Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Lightly sprinkle lemon zest on the uncooked treats.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Tip: Keep a few treats in an air-tight container and freeze the remainder for later.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Place cooled chicken and rice mixture in a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Add hamburger and stir fry until almost fully cooked. Add peppers, kale and figs to the meat. Continue to stir fry until the kale is reduced.

Allow mixture to cool. Then, place mixture into a food processor or blender and purée until smooth.

Combine the blended mixture and quinoa flour. Mix well.

Form into 3-inch flat discs. Place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place on rack to cool.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Place the purée in a large bowl.

Add the coconut flour and flax seed; mix well.

Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Meatball Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 Tbsp virgin coconut oil 10 oz grass-fed hamburger, 85 percent lean 4 oz green pepper, washed, seeded, cut in bite-size pieces 2½ oz kale, washed 3 figs, stems removed 1 cup quinoa flour

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

Cheesy Crunchies 2 cups whole wheat flour ¼ cup cornmeal ½ cup cheese (any grated cheese) 1 egg 1¾ cup filtered water ½ cup fine-grated Parmesan cheese Mix all ingredients except Parmesan.

Knead dough until thoroughly mixed.

Roll dough into shapes (like sticks or squares) or use cookie cutter. Roll shapes in the Parmesan. Dehydrate in a dehydrator at 155° F approximately 4 to 6 hours or until dry. For cats, make much smaller shapes.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Stephanie Raya, Excalibur Dehydrator

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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.

Email Calendar@NABatonRouge.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit NABatonRouge.com to submit online.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Stress, Hormones and Health – 6pm. Join Dr. Buchert and discover what really works for permanent weight loss, increased energy, and improved overall health through a functional wellness approach. Free dinner. Portobello’s Italian Grill, 15440 George O’Neal Rd, Baton Rouge. 225-250-1025, ext 702.

MyMintHealth.com.

Happy Holidays!

WORTH – 8-9am. Women Owners Reaching Tremendous Heights, a business owners networking group, aiding women owners build their businesses through effective networking and referrals, education and emotional support. $50/month. Bocage Racquet Club, President’s Room, 7600 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge. Brenda Cedars, President 225-926-3287.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 Mindful Meditation – 10-11am. Learn how simple meditation can ease stress and worry, and help you focus. Take part in a simple meditation that you can do at home. With Ashley Michel. Free. Eden Park Branch Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd, Baton Rouge. 225-231-3250.

Prenatal Class – 12:30pm, Join Miranda Brown, CNM, for Comprehensive Pre/post-natal Education. Curriculum includes breastfeeding, labor and birth plan, microbiome, birth control, detoxification and endocrine disruptors, essential oils and herbals, postpartum support, and more. Mint Health, Woman’s Hospital Physician Office, Ste 401, Baton Rouge. MyMintHealth.com/pre-natal.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 Reindeer Run and Jingle Bell Jog – 7pm. 1-mile and 5K, and will feature the Festival of Lights, Santa Claus, live music, fireworks, free outdoor ice-skating and much more. $30. Lafayette St and North Blvd, Baton Rouge. ReindeerRunBR2015. eventbrite.com.

Baton Rouge Green Pick Event – 9am. Volunteers will harvest the extra fruit from trees in the program.

All fruit harvested will be donated to local food banks and food pantries. Call 225-381-0037or visit BatonRougeGreen.com.

The Red Shoes Holiday Luncheon – 12-1:30pm.

Join The Red Shoes for a catered holiday lunch with friends from our community. Please RSVP by Dec. 1. $10. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170. TheRedShoes.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Santa Visits Whole Foods Market – 1-3pm. Santa is coming to Whole Foods Market in Baton Rouge, and he would love to take a picture with you. All proceeds go to St. Vincent De Paul. Suggested donation, $3. Whole Foods Market Baton Rouge, Community Room, 7529 Corporate Blvd, Baton Rouge. WFMBTR.Eventbrite.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 HANOLA – 6-7:30pm. Hispanic American Networking Organization of Louisiana is a business networking meeting, bringing Hispanic and American businesses together to help build businesses through referrals. $60 membership twice annually. El Magey Mexican Restaurant, 8290 Siegen Ln, Baton Rouge.

Marsha Fowler, President, 225-439-9520.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Gift-Worthy Body Scrub Workshop – 6-7pm.

Share the gift of glowing skin with handmade scrubs.

Enjoy light bites and wine pairings in this hands-on DIY body care class. $10. Whole Foods Market Baton Rouge, Community Room, 7529 Corporate Blvd, Baton Rouge. WFMBTR.Eventbrite.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 Chair Yoga – 10-11am. This class will be very gentle and incorporate stretching, and range of motion techniques, designed to aid in relaxation.

Participants will not need to stand, contort or get down on the floor. With Ashley Michel. Free. Eden Park Branch Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd, Baton Rouge. 225-231-3250.

Lunations: New Moon Ritual – 6-7:30pm. Join us to tap into the cycle of the moon as a source for re-centering and re-grounding. Our monthly gatherings include a water ritual. With Lisa BovenkampLanglois. $5 suggested donation. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

TheRedShoes.org.

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Greater Baton Rouge, LA

Fleauxt Toy Drive – 9:30am-8pm. Bring in a new, unwrapped toy for a child in need and receive a free dry salt therapy session. Toys will be donated to the Baton Rouge Child Advocacy Center. Fleauxt- Floatation and Dry Salt Therapy, 8312 Jefferson Hwy, Ste 4, Baton Rouge. 225-283-0520. Fleauxt.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12

Meet the Author: Ann Trousdale – 6:30-8pm.

Author Ann Trousdale discusses her book Cotton Patch Rebel: The Story of Clarence Jordan, the inspiration for Habitat for Humanity. $5. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225338-1170. TheRedShoes.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11

NABatonRouge.com

Oh Christmas Treats – 11am. Bring your sweet tooth to class and join Kim, Health & Wellness Coach with Mint Health, in preparing healthier alternatives to holiday treats without refined sugars, gluten and processed ingredients. Register online.

Free. Whole Foods Market Baton Rouge, 7529 Corporate Blvd. WFM.com/Baton Rouge.

Saturday Soiree, Holiday Sip & Shop – 12:303:30pm. One Stop Shop with local vendors of the hottest trends from clothing and jewelry to spa services and health therapy. Free. Body Sculpt Barre Studio, 17900 Airline Hwy (South Point Shopping Center) Ste. B, Prairieville. 225-931-4224. Body SculptBarreStudio.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Intro to Kundalini Yoga – 2-4pm. Uncoil the powerful force within through postures, breath, sound, meditation and chanting while focusing on moving energy through your body. Free. Yoga Bliss, 7384 Highland Rd. 225-663-2381. YogaBliss BatonRouge.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Stress, Hormones and Health – 6pm. Join Dr. Buchert and discover what really works for permanent weight loss, increased energy, and improved overall health through a functional wellness approach. Free dinner. Portobello’s Italian Grill, 15440 George O’Neal Rd, Baton Rouge. 225-250-1025, ext 705.

MyMintHealth.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Pranic Healing Clinic – 6:30-8:30pm. Pranic healing is a system of energy medicine that uses prana to balance, harmonize and transform the body’s energy processes. Avoid wearing leather or silk.

With students of Master Stephen Co. $10 suggested donation. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170. TheRedShoes.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Mindful Meditation – 10-11am. Learn how simple meditation can ease stress and worry, and help you focus. Take part in a simple meditation that you can do at home. With Ashley Michel. Free. Eden Park Branch Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd, Baton Rouge. 225-231-3250.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 A Christmas Carol – 7:30-9:30pm. Capture the magic and joy of the Christmas season as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future lead miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a powerful journey of transformation and redemption. $25. Baton Rouge Theatre, 7155 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge. 225-924-6496.

TheatreBR.org.

ongoingevents

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Reflections of the Season – 5:30-9pm. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, children’s carnival rides, Santa, crafters, food vendors and Trevor the Singing Reindeer. Free to attend. West Baton Rouge Tourist Center, 2750 N. Westport Dr, Port Allen. 225-3442920. WestBatonRouge.net.

HANOLA – 6-7:30pm. Hispanic American Networking Organization of Louisiana is a business networking meeting, bringing Hispanic and American businesses together to help build businesses through referrals. $60 membership twice annually. El Magey Mexican Restaurant, 8290 Siegen Ln, Baton Rouge.

Marsha Fowler, President, 225-439-9520.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 Crocheting For a Cause – 3-4pm. Adults can turn plastic bags into plastic yarn (plarn) that can be used to crochet durable sleeping mats for those that are homeless and living on the streets. Free. EBRP Main Library, Conference Room #102, 7711 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge. 225-231-3740.

this producers-only market. Unitarian Church, 8470 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge.

sunday Matters of the Heart – 5-6pm. Time for introspection and inter-religious experience for those yearning to unite through prayer, chanting, inspirational readings and silence. With Dr. Francis Vanderwall.

Donations appreciated. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

monday Morning Yoga - A Perfect Beginning – 8-9am. Wake up the body, mind and spirit with morning yoga.

With Tina Ufford and Dee Dee Poullard. $8/class, 7 classes/$48, monthly unlimited/$75. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

Yoga for Cancer Survivors – 10:30-11:30am.

Gentle yoga practice combines simple movements, stretching, meditation and breath work to increase flexibility, strength and relaxation. With Valerie Flynn-Wintz. Sponsored by Cancer Services. Free.

The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing, email us at Publisher@NABatonRouge.com. Must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. $1 per word, $20 minimum.

Must be prepaid.

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for Natural Awakenings. We are looking to expand our distribution and need distributors to set up new locations. Must be honest and dependable. If you’d like to earn some extra income, send email to Publisher@ NABatonRouge.com.

SEEKING ARTISTS – Receive 2 free floats (aka floatation therapy/sensory deprivation) at FLEAUXT, in exchange for a piece of artwork. The artist will begin working on the piece after the second float. For more information, send email to Info@ Fleauxt.com and include samples of your work.

Gentle Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Relax the body and mind with gentle physical movement, breathing exercises and meditation. Enhance well-being, flexibility and build strength through yoga postures.

With Tina Ufford and Valerie Flynn-Wintz. $8/class, 7 classes/$48. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

A Spiritual Gathering – 6:30-8pm. Spiritual teacher, Jim Bowman, leads open, meaningful discussions to help you recognize and develop your true spiritual nature. Guided meditation. $20. The Guru, in Circa complex, 1857 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-603-3698.

A Course in Miracles – 7-8:30pm. A Course in Miracles, a one-year program, will meet weekly to begin a process of changing perception to become aware of love’s presence. Facilitated by Nic Ourso. $20 suggested monthly donation. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

tuesday Morning Yoga - A Perfect Beginning – 8-9am. Wake up the body, mind and spirit with morning yoga.

With Tina Ufford and Dee Dee Poullard. $8/class, 7 classes/$48, monthly unlimited/$75. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

Red Stick Farmers’ Market – 8am-12pm. Seasonal produce and baked goods are sold here at

Prenatal Class – 12:30pm, Join Miranda Brown, CNM, for Comprehensive Pre/post-natal Education.

Curriculum includes breastfeeding, labor and birth plan, microbiome, birth control, detoxification and endocrine disruptors, essential oils and herbals, postpartum support, and more. Mint Health, Woman’s Hospital Physician Office, Ste 401, Baton Rouge.

MyMintHealth.com/pre-natal.

Oneness Meditation – 6-7:15pm. Receive calming energy, increase inner peace, have clarity, recharge and more. Attend meditation with an energy practice to deepen your experience. With James Brinson. $5 suggested donation. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 504-249-8845.

Wind Down Evening Yin – 6:45-8pm. Relax in a slow moving practice that promotes calm and stillness. Seated/reclining poses releases the stress of everyday life. $17 Drop-In/Students $12. Yoga Bliss, 7384 Highland Rd. 225-663-2381.

wednesday Morning Yoga: A Perfect Beginning – 8-9am.

Wake up the body, mind and spirit with morning yoga. With Tina Ufford and Dee Dee Poullard. $8/ class, $48/7 classes, monthly unlimited/$75. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

WORTH – 8-9am. Women Owners Reaching Tremendous Heights, a business owners networking group, aiding women owners build their businesses through effective networking and referrals, education and emotional support. $50/month. Bocage Racquet Club, President’s Room, 7600 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge. Brenda Cedars, President 225-926-3287.

Wellness Wednesdays – 9am-5:30pm. Detox Footbath or Sauna Therapy for only $15/service (a savings of $10). Enjoy a complimentary wellness drink during the service. The Wellness Centre of Baton Rouge, 1528 Delplaza Dr, Ste B, Baton Rouge. 225-229-6107.

Red Stick Mobile Farmers’ Market – 9-11am.

Made possible by Blue Cross Blue Shield Challenge for a Healthier Louisiana Grant, Chase Bank, The Irene W and CB Pennington Foundation, The Imogene Brown Foundation and the Office of Community Development. Scotlandville Library, 7373 Scenic Hwy, Baton Rouge.

Compassion in Action Circle – 10:30am-12pm.

Documentaries and books spark the spirit of compassion within this circle. $20 suggested donation.

The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

natural awakenings

December 2015

27

Group Meditation – 5-6pm. Experience several different meditation techniques to ease stress and tension, and improve concentration. $5 donation.

The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

thursday Morning Yoga - A Perfect Beginning – 8-9am.

Wake up the body, mind and spirit with morning yoga. With Tina Ufford and Dee Dee Poullard. $8/ class, 7 classes/$47, $75/monthly unlimited. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

Red Stick Farmers’ Market – 8am-12pm. Seasonal produce and baked goods are sold here at this producers-only market. Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 6400 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge.

Dream Discovery – 10:30am-12pm. Discover more about the self, while learning about dreams. With Joan McCaskill, Spiritual Director. $40/monthly.

The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

It’s in Our DNA to Be Successful We can help you thrive. Advertise in our special

Health & Wellness January Issue

Prenatal Class – 12:30pm, Join Miranda Brown, CNM, for Comprehensive Pre/post-natal Education.

Curriculum includes breastfeeding, labor and birth plan, microbiome, birth control, detoxification and endocrine disruptors, essential oils and herbals, postpartum support, and more. Mint Health, Woman’s Hospital Physician Office, Ste 401, Baton Rouge.

MyMintHealth.com/pre-natal.

Gentle Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Relax the body and quiet the mind with gentle physical movement, breathing exercises and meditation. Enhance wellbeing, increase flexibility and build strength. With Tina Ufford and Valerie Flynn-Wintz. $8/class, $48/7 classes. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

Spiritual Journey Circle – 6-7pm. Find inspiration on a journey that opens the door to the ideas of diverse spiritual teachers. $20 monthly donation.

225-238-1200 Greater Baton Rouge, LA

friday Morning Yoga - A Perfect Beginning – 8-9am.

Wake up the body and invigorate the mind and spirit with morning yoga. With Tina Ufford and Dee Dee Poullard. $8/class, $48/7 classes, $75/monthly unlimited. The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge. 225-338-1170.

Red Stick Mobile Farmers’ Market – 8:3010:30am. Made possible by Blue Cross Blue Shield Challenge for a Healthier Louisiana Grant, Chase Bank, The Irene W and CB Pennington Foundation, The Imogene Brown Foundation and the Office of Community Development. Delmont Service Center, 3535 Riley St, Baton Rouge.

Prenatal Class – 12:30pm, Join Miranda Brown, CNM, for Comprehensive Pre/post-natal Education.

Curriculum includes breastfeeding, labor and birth plan, microbiome, birth control, detoxification and endocrine disruptors, essential oils and herbals, postpartum support, and more. Mint Health, Woman’s Hospital Physician Office, Ste 401, Baton Rouge.

MyMintHealth.com/pre-natal.

saturday Livingston Parish Farmers’ Market – 7am-12pm.

Each week, stop by for food, fruits, vegetables, local specialties and crafts. Located in the New Covenant Church parking lot on U.S. 190 (Florida Blvd) across from McDonald’s in Denham Springs.

Red Stick Farmers’ Market – 8am-12pm. Once a week, local and seasonal produce, baked goods and farm-raised meat and eggs can be purchased downtown. The market is a fun shopping event for all ages, featuring not only local foods but quality handcrafts and live music. Corner of 5th & Main St, Baton Rouge.

Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy holiday season

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call 28

The Red Shoes, 2303 Government St, Baton Rouge.

225-338-1170.

NABatonRouge.com

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To be included, email Publisher@NABatonRouge.com or call 225-238-1200 to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE WELLNESS CENTER 711 Jefferson Hwy Ste 8, Baton Rouge 225-925-1188 AcupunctureBR.com

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can safely and effectively treat a wide A C U P U N C T U R E range of health concerns, WELLNESS CENTER such as allergies, cancer care support, facial rejuvenation, fertility, headaches, menopause, pain, post-surgery & sports injury, shingles, stress & anxiety, as well as wellness & prevention. Call today to find out more or visit our website.

CHIROPRACTOR ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

Our readers are looking for chiropractors. Call for special rates.

DENTIST CYPRESS DENTAL, INC.

Kurt A. LeJeune, DDS 3138 McIlhenny Drive, Baton Rouge 225-248-8400 Offering dental services including cosmetic dentistry, full-mouth rehabilitation, minimally invasive dentistry, mercury-safe environment, non-titanium implants, and laser dentistry. We also offer treatment for complex conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, TMJ dysfunction, head, neck and facial pain. See ad, page 23.

SULLIVAN DENTAL CENTER

5439 Commerce St, St. Francisville 225-224-8444 SullivanDental.com The health and well-being of our patients is our number one priority.

That is why we listen to your concerns, and then ensure that you get the results you want. We always stay on top of the latest technology in order to provide our patients with the cutting-edge, most quality care available. See ad, page 2.

CATHY DUPLECHIN

ENERGY THERAPY

Young Living Distributor #1253105 225-347-4442 LiveAndBreatheOils.com

LOLA J. POCHE, LMT, CMI 225-235-5519

Everything is energy. In and around our bodies, energy is moving and shifting.

Balancing these energies can help with insomnia, anxiety, past traumas and other conditions. I work with clients using an intuitive network to create a unique session to balance energy. Relax and experience what an energy work therapy session can do for you.

By appointment only.

Young Living Essential Oils and products, Raindrop Technique, Zyto Compass Reading and local seminars on healthy living held the third Tuesday of each month.

Find out about the health benefits of Young Living, inquire about getting a wholesale membership or start a business. Share essential oils with others and make money. See ad, page 10.

ESSENTIALS 4 HEALTH; dōTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS

VICKI B BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Katelyn Neil 614-395-8404 • Essentials4Health.us

Vicki B- Reiki Master Usui/Holy Fire 225-955-0177 Vicki@Vicki-B.com

Reiki is a Japanese technique for relaxation and stress reduction that can also promote healing.

It is administered by laying on hands and can be easily learned by anyone.

Classes are held twice a year. Keep an eye open for retreats coming soon. See ad, page 19.

ESSENTIAL OILS COYOTE MOON CRYSTALS AND GIFTS 1938 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge 225-344-4448 CoyoteMoonBR.com

We have single oils, combinations of oils and organic oils, as well as carrier oils and creams for cosmetics. Lovely diffusers will fill your room with fragrant healing.

See ad, page 17.

DAYSTAR WAY, LLC

Jeannie Causey, LPN, CNHP, YL #1265021 225-572-3376 YLWebsite.com/DaystarWay Learn to improve your health/ wellness by using therapeuticgrade YL Essential Oils and prayer. YL Essential Oils respect the sensitive methods required to preserve the oil’s therapeutic integrity without preservatives or additives. Zyto Compass Scans available for determining nutritional supplementation needs. Ask how to get one for free. See ad, page 10.

I’m currently interviewing for positions on my business team, sharing how to use dōTERRA essential oils, the highest quality oils produced in the world. We are creating a community focused on education and supporting others in advocating their own wellness.

If you are passionate about living in alignment with your purpose, I am interested in speaking with you.

See ad, page 15.

VICKI B BEAUTY & WELLNESS doTERRA Essential Oils & Wellness Products 225-955-0177 Mydoterra.com/vickib

Join me in a journey to reinvent your wellness routine and restore your health the safe, natural way.

Let’s use my AromaTouch Technique certification to help you relax and restore your feeling of overall wellness. Classes and individual or group consultations available. See ad, page 19.

FINANCIAL HEALTH JUDITH SINCLAIR

LPL Financial Registered Representative 4137 S Sherwood Forest Blvd, Ste 130, Baton Rouge • 225-266-1654

natural awakenings

I have been helping individuals and families pursue financial freedom for over 25 years. Call me today to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your financial goals and needs. It is never too late to start planning a healthy financial future. See ad, page 18.

December 2015

29

HAIR SALON

FITNESS STUDIO

JUICE AND SMOOTHIES

BODY SCULPT BARRE STUDIO

VICKI B BEAUTY & WELLNESS

THE BIG SQUEEZY

We pride ourselves on knowing that fitness is not just a number on the scale, but that a fit body is a strong and happy body.

Body Sculpt provides total body conditioning classes, merged with a positive and fun atmosphere, promoting a love for fitness and supporting a high-energy environment, to sculpt lean, strong, happy bodies. See ad, page 21.

Vicki B Beauty & Wellness offers vegan and organic hair color, cut and styling services in an intimate studio setting. Vicki has been a hairstylist in Baton Rouge since 2001 while gaining knowledge from classes and hair shows around the globe. She is experienced in stage, film, runway and photo quality styles, as well as everyday wash and wear. See ad, page 19.

Baton Rouge’s premier Cold P r e s s e d J u i c e r y. O u r unprocessed cold-pressed juices are prepared fresh daily.

Offering a variety of juices, juice cleanses, smoothies, mylks and coffees. We are committed to supporting local, sustainable farms and source only the highest quality ingredients for everything we prepare for you. Small footprint, big taste. Local. Raw. Delicious. See ad, page 13.

HEALTH COACH

MASSAGE THERAPY

Organic Colour Systems 225-955-0177 Vicki-B.com

17900 Airline Hwy, Ste B, Prairieville 225-931-4224 BodySculptBarreStudio.com

DEFINE FITNESS STUDIO

10735 Linkwood Ct, Ste A, Baton Rouge 225-337-8278 DefineFitStudio.com We are excited to be the only studio in Louisiana to offer the Buti Yoga® and tap n’ pow{h}er® fitness methods. We offer a fun, welcoming environment for a results-oriented workout to free your hips and mind. Our classes are designed to build strength, burn calories, lengthen, challenge and empower you.

Define yourself here. See ad, page 17.

FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION SOZO NUTRITIONAL HEALTH CONSULTING Christina Smith, DNM 225-315-1225 Christina.Smith@SozoOnThe.net SozoOnThe.net

A Functional Nutrition Model of Health Care that can effectively s t o p s u ff e r i n g . D r. S m i t h specializes in identifying and correcting gut, metabolic, hormone and immune problems, naturally. Especially helpful for those who’ve been told, “your lab tests are normal” or those who are not satisfied with the current level of care they are getting.

FUNCTIONAL WELLNESS

BETHANY FREEDMAN

225-294-9219 BethanyFreedman@gmail.com IntegrativeWellnessNOW.com

HEALTHY-N-GRATEFUL

FACILITATING HEALING, LLC

Food and diet choices can be overwhelming. Are you ready to benefit from making the right choices for your body? Do you want to have more energy, a calmer mind, less sick time and effortless weight loss? Call today and together we will make the life changing and lasting journey.

Olivia offers massages designed just for you. Her specialty is Raindrop Therapy Technique, a service that uses therapeutic-grade essential oils to realign the body structurally and electrically. This also helps aid in detoxification of the body. Call today to schedule your personalized service. YL # 1395291, LA Lic #7511. See ad, page 10.

Jennifer Tucker, Health Coach 225-772-9025 HealthyNGrateful.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH

Our focus is an integrated, functional wellness approach to obstetrics/gynecology and primary care to affect meaningful change in the lives of our patients, their families, and our community.

We are committed to service that is holistic, up-todate, affordable and evidence-based to help patients reach their wellness goals and sustain positive change. See ad, page 5.

FLEAUXT is an alternative health and wellness center offering a unique blend of complementary therapies. Conveniently located in Baton Rouge, we offer two salt rooms (one for adults and one for children) and two private float rooms. FLEAUXT in for relaxation, stress relief, healing and rejuvenation. See ad, page 32.

Greater Baton Rouge, LA

10562 S Glenstone Place, Baton Rouge 225-936-3649 BabetteMassage@gmail.com My mission is to be a conduit of Love, Light, Peace, Joy and Healing Energy. I specialize in Manual Lymph Drainage with e m p h a s i s o n Ly m p h e d e m a Therapy and Immune Dysfunction.

I work heavily with the healing energy of essential oils. In addition, I offer Swedish massage, energy work and raindrop therapy.

FLEAUXT

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BABETTE DEBARROS LMT, VODDER CDT

Common health complaints can be improved using natural health modalities, supplements and balanced nutrition. As a Certified Health Coach trained in the science of nutrition, dietary theory, and practical coaching methods, I can help you create a personalized roadmap to health.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn about programs designed to fit your budget.

MINT HEALTH

500 Rue de la Vie, Ste 401, Baton Rouge 225-250-1025, ext 705 MyMintHealth.com

3043 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge 225-930-4466 TheBigSqueezy.com

Floatation & Dry Salt Therapy 8312 Jefferson Hwy, Ste 4, Baton Rouge Fleauxt.com

NABatonRouge.com

Olivia Bennett, LPN, LMT 315 N. Range Ave, Denham Springs 318-792-5073

RELAX, RESTORE, RENEW

10467 Florida Blvd, Walker 225-287-6826 RelaxRestoreRenewMassage.com We specialize in Neuromuscular T h e r a p y ( D e e p Ti s s u e ) , Prenatal, Whiplash Injuries, Myofascial Release, Sinus Drainage, Craniosacral, and Relaxation. Natural Awakenings readers receive a special offer when they schedule a massage. Call today to Relax, Restore and Renew. See ad, page 21.

NATURAL DETOX BODYWORKS BY VICKIE

6509 Government St, Ste C, Baton Rouge 225-927-3549 BodyworksBR.biz Detox and rejuvenate your body the natural way with ionic foot baths, a painless and effective way to dissolve toxic accumulations no matter where they are located in the body. Infrared Body Wraps help you lose weight and inches, diminish cellulite, tighten skin, relieve muscle pain, increase energy and metabolism and strengthen the immune system.

See ad, page 15.

NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS PLEXUS PRODUCTS

Terrie Crosby, Sr. Ruby Ambassador 225-937-4657 PlexusSlim.com/TCrosby Our life-changing products offer the most natural way to improve health, increase energy, lose weight and manage pain. Plexus products help you achieve this goal by giving your body the ingredients it needs to balance, detox and heal itself as God designed it to do. See ad, page 5.

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR KARIN NIELSEN, ND

1528 Delplaza Dr, Ste B, Baton Rouge 225-229-6107 WellnessCentreBR.com Offering non-invasive health assessments, Total Thermography, Lymphatic Therapy and many detox therapies. We have a high success rate using homeopathic and functional medicine for women, men and children. We specialize in treating Lyme disease, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia. See ad, page 11.

ORGANIC BAKERY ROOM FOR DESSERT

9618 Jefferson Hwy, Ste B, Baton Rouge 225-293-9886 Room4DessertBR.com Room For Dessert offers pastries and desserts, made daily, that are sugar, gluten and dairy free.

We take pride in offering the highest quality ingredients in our freshly baked products. Call or stop by for custom orders. See ad, page 13.

PERSONAL & SPIRITUAL GROWTH THE RED SHOES

TATTOO SAFE VOYAGE TATTOO

2648 S Range Ave, Denham Springs 225-664-4005 SafeVoyageTattoo.com

2303 Government St, Baton Rouge 225-338-1170 TheRedShoes.org The Red Shoes is a nonprofit center offering opportunities for spiritual enrichment and personal growth through book and film studies, weekend retreats and workshops, as well as creative development through the art forms of collage, drawing, painting, writing and music. We offer movement classes including yoga and various dance disciplines. Classes are designed to broaden one’s understanding within a supportive community. See ad, page 17.

Safe Voyage Tattoo provides classic tattooing in a professional and sterile environment with an experienced artist. We offer vegan-friendly pigments. Please call or stop by the shop to set up your appointment for a consultation. We’re also happy to accept walk-in clientele, so stop in and get tattooed or pierced. See ad, page 21.

THERMOGRAPHY THE WELLNESS CENTRE OF BR

SKIN & BEAUTY NYR ORGANIC

Hope Maria Benson, Independent Consultant 225-716-0820 • hh.benson@yahoo.com US.NYROrganic.com/Shop/HopeMariaBenson Offering London’s award-winning Neal’s Yard Remedies range of safe skin care, bath, body & spa, cosmetics, aromatherapy, herbal remedies & teas, gifts and more.

Shop one-on-one, online, at events or your own social. Fair Trade, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Ethically Sourced, NonGMO, No Nasties, Certified Organic.

SPIRITUAL GIFTS & BOOKS COYOTE MOON

1938 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge 225-343-2340 CoyoteMoonBR.com Coyote Moon is a retail store offering all sorts of treasures to help you become healthy in body, mind and spirit. We stock wonderful books, relaxing music for meditation and yoga, gorgeous crystals, natural stones, sacred sage, Native American drums, Tibetan singing bowls, Kroeger Herb products and Shanti Kai flower essence sprays. New items arrive weekly. See ad, page 17.

Karin Nielsen, ND, CCT 1528 Delplaza Dr, Ste B, Baton Rouge 225-229-6107 WellnessCentreBR.com

Total Thermography, non-invasive and radiation free, can often detect abnormalities 8-10 years before other screening methods. Thermography helps find underlying causes of disease as it looks at the entire body’s behavior after being stressed. Consultations and follow-up care are offered. See ad, page 11.

YOGA SPIRAL BRANCH YOGA

121 N Range Ave, Denham Springs 225-664-7759 SpiralBranchYoga.com We are happy to be the first studio dedicated solely to the practice of yoga in Denham Springs and Livingston Parish. Our goal is to provide our students with a variety of yoga experiences so you can find the fit that is best for you, your goals and your journey. We warmly welcome you to our community and family.

YOGA BLISS

7384 Highland Rd 225-663-2381 5160 S Sherwood Forest Blvd 225-448-3288 YogaBlissBatonRouge.com With two convenient l o c a t i o n s , Yo g a Bliss offers Basics, Bliss Flow I & II, Slow Flow, Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Primary Series, Ashtanga Flow, Yoga Therapy, Restorative/Slow Flow, Prenatal Yoga, Baby Bliss, Private and Group Lessons and more. Both studios offer a unique schedule and a wide array of membership choices from single drop-in classes to unlimited packages. See ad, page 18.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Relax. Breathe. Fleauxt.

One 60-Min Float and One Dry Salt Therapy Session for $49 (expires Dec 31, 2015)

225-283-0520 • 8312 Jefferson Hwy, Ste 4 • Baton Rouge • Fleauxt.com