May 2013

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

Special Edition

Women’s Wellness Aging Gracefully Redefine Your Best Years Yet B est Y ears Y et

Trust Your Gut

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Instincts to Heed

Feline Explorers Safe Outdoor Options for Cats

May 2013

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publishersletter

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ay’s theme is Women’s Wellness, and it is the month we celebrate Mother’s Day. As I pondered on what my publisher’s letter might be about, I got to thinking about being a woman and the different roles we play in life. As women I think we often put the needs of others ahead of our own, which doesn’t leave us with a lot of time to do nice things for ourselves. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a working mom or a single woman just trying to make ends meet, we all seem to take on more than we can do. We get so busy taking care of others we don’t give ourselves the care we really need.

Many women I talk to have the same complaints, they feel tired, never feel rested, they have no energy, and they feel stressed and never seem to have time to focus on keeping themselves well. I have been guilty of this many times. The featured article this month is “Aging Gracefully.” The takeaway message is that regardless of our poor lifestyle choices in our youth, “it’s never too late to make small changes that will immediately and profoundly influence our ability to live long and healthy lives.” So take some time for yourself to rest and restore, explore options to help you eat a more balanced diet, drink plenty of water, move more and pamper yourself a little. Maybe get a massage or a mani-pedi.

April was a busy month and May is going to be busy as well. I would like to thank the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and State Farm Insurance for their invitation to their Earth Day Celebrations. It is such a pleasure to get out and meet the people in the community. On May 4, I would like to invite you to join us at the Birmingham Gluten Free Expo. I am very excited for the opportunity that Natural Awakenings Magazine has to help sponsor such a great event.

The garden is coming along just fine and hopefully we can share some pictures in the coming months so you can see the progress.

Remember, slow down and do something nice for yourself.

contact us Publisher Tom Maples Tom@AlabamaAwakenings.com Cell: 404-395-9634 New Business Development Advertising Sales Cindy Wilson Cindy@AlabamaAwakenings.com Cell: 256-476-6537 Design and Production Karen Ormstedt

Natural Awakenings Birmingham 14 Woodland Ave. Trinity, Alabama 35673 Office: 256-340-1122 Fax: 256-217-4274 NABirmingham.com © 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $25 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

natural awakenings

May 2013

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contents 5 newsbriefs 7 healthbriefs

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10 globalbriefs 12 naturalpet 13 inspiration 22 calendars

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29 resourceguide

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

12 OUTDOOR OPTIONS FOR FELINE FRIENDS

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Safe Ways to Let Them Explore

by Sandra Murphy

13 LISTENING TO INNER WISDOM 5 Instincts To Heed

by Dr. Judith Orloff

14 HORMONES AND HAPPINESS

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by Elizabeth Campbell Korcz, M.D.

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE Display Ads due by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Contact Us to advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit. 256-476-6537 -or- Editor@AlabamaAwakenings.com

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS* Newsbriefs due by the 10th of the month. Limit 50-250 words.

Content limited to special events and other announcements.

No advertorials, please.

Articles and ideas due by the 5th of the month. Articles generally contain 250-850 words, with some exceptions. No advertorials, please.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Calendar of Events and Ongoing Calendar listings due by the 10th of the month. Limit 50 words per entry. Please follow format found in those sections.

ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY 256-476-6537 -or- Editor@AlabamaAwakenings.com *All submissions are subject to editing and will be printed at the publisher’s discretion. Article space often fills in advance. Deadline dates refer to the month prior to next publication and may change without notice due to holidays, shorter months, or printing schedules.

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15 AGING GRACEFULLY It’s No Mystery: We Now Know How

by Kathleen Barnes

18 CUTTING THROUGH THE NUTRITION NONSENSE 5 Meals x 5 Ingredients = 1 Week of Healthy Eating

by Steve Dupont, RD, LD

20 THE EMBODIMENT OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

by Margaret J. Pittenger, MSPT

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newsbriefs May at the Gardens

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ay welcomes a special edition of Southern Tales to Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Dolores Hydock returns for a special presentation on May 5 at 2pm in the Linn-Henley Lecture Hall. Hydock will present the one-woman play, “In Her Own Fashion,” the true story of Ninette Griffith, a sassy, stylish, independent 96-year-old woman with a silk-and-chiffon Southern accent and brass-and-iron spirit. Purchase your tickets online at BBGardens.org/southerntales.

The Certificate in Native Plant Studies series will offer a core class in May titled “Introduction to the Study of Native Plants.” Held on May 4, this full-day introduction to the study of native plants will begin in the classroom before moving outside, where participants will be able to correlate what they have learned with examples in The Gardens. To register online, visit BBGardens.org/ plantstudies.

Junior Board of Birmingham Botanical Gardens will celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 2 with “Salsa de Mayo.” Led by TV cooking personality Lori Sours, this class will teach students how to create their own salsa using fresh garden ingredients. To register online, visit BBGardens.org/classes.

“Get Into The Gardens” brings free weekend programming to The Gardens in May with a demonstration on May 4 at 1pm titled “Easy Container Gardening: Creating a Mother’s Day Herb Garden.” The Sunday Scene offers two educational walks at The Gardens, visiting the Fern Glade on May 5 and a special Mother’s Day walk on May 12 presented by the Rose Society. To learn more about all of the free weekend programs that are a part of “Get Into The Gardens,” visit BBGardens. org/weekends.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens is open from dawn until dusk 365 days per year. Admission to The Gardens is free. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3965. BBGardens.org.

Reiki Level 1 with Bliss Wood

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eiki is a Japanese healing technique for stress reduction, deep relaxation, pain release and expanded spiritual awareness. As a powerful, yet very gentle mode of energetic healing and balancing, reiki heals on all levels including emotional, mental, physical and spiritual. Once you receive this powerful energy, it will remain with you for the rest of your life, allowing you to bring healing to yourself and loved ones (even your pets). Open to all, no previous training necessary.

Course includes: • History of Reiki • The five Reiki Ideals • Gassho meditation technique • Reiki first-degree attunements • 12 Reiki hand positions • Study of the 7 Chakras • Reiki for pets • 21-day cleansing process • Reiki self-healing techniques • Certification of Completion The class will be held May 11-12, 9am-5pm both days. 14 CE hours can be earned for massage therapists. Cost is $180. Register online at BirminghamYoga.com.

See CRG on Page 30.

In Gratitude...

It is the many practitioners and businesses who advertise that make Natural Awakenings possible. ● They are providing you with one of the most valuable resources for healthy living in Alabama. ● Through their dedication and commitment we work together for happier, healthier communities. ● Please support these practitioners and businesses who are making a difference. ● natural awakenings

May 2013

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emPOWERment Yoga Workshop with Jo Beth Richards

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et’s let go of what is blocking us, and tap into our empowerment. This 2-hour, all-levels workshop on May 25 from 3-5pm will guide us through letting go of our insecurities, and tuning into our own radical self-acceptance. Through the art of yoga and meditation we will move past the external and glide into our internal wellspring of empowerment.

This workshop will consist of three guided meditations divided by two power yoga segments. Our meditations will guide us into empowering our inner spirits, while the power yoga classes allow us to release the hindrances in our bodies & minds that are holding us back. This workshop is for all yogis, both new & advanced, the only requirements are an open heart and joyous smile.

Price: $25 if you register before May 18, $30 for registration May 19-25. Register online at BirminghamYoga. com. See CRG on Page 30.

Transformational Meditations: Clearing and Strengthening the Heart Center

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ur subconscious mind creates patterns in our thinking and behavior, making it difficult to break habits and create true change in our life. This class will take you through deep meditations to clear the subconscious mind and open the path to stillness, transformation and bliss. The class structure will be a 10 minute introduction, 10 minute warm-up, 30 minute meditation and 10 minute rest/integration. The meditations will change monthly and will include pranayama (breath control), mantra (sound vibration) and mudra (hand positions to stimulate meridians of the brain). All meditations will be based in the Kundalini Yoga technology as taught by Yogi Bhajan. Led

by Kewal Nam Kaur (Kerry Meon), IKYTA, RYT. Meditation for May: Clearing and Strengthening the Heart Center, will be held on May 15 from 7:30-8:30pm.

People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~Maya Angelou

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This meditation will enable us to circulate energy from our body, to the ethers, then back down to our heart. The heart center will be cleared, purified and strengthened by this powerful circulating energy. Regular Class Rates Apply. BirminghamYoga.com. See CRG on Page 30.

Restorative Yoga and Reiki Class with Terri Heiman

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uring the month of May, Terri Heiman of Natural Forces Studio will be offering Restorative Yoga to the students at Birmingham Yoga. Restorative Yoga focuses on relaxing the body, mind and spirit in restful poses. She will also be offering the class Reiki energy while in the various poses.

By applying the energy of Reiki, the mind is able to let go for greater rest and deeper relaxation. During the course of the class, five to seven poses will be offered. These positions are often held for longer lengths of time as the student is supported with blankets and bolsters. This form of class helps to trigger the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for balancing the body and bringing its response system back into equilibrium. It allows the body to drop stress off the body and “recharge” so to speak.

In our society today, we all tend to zoom around with lots of multi tasking. By taking the time to slow down and relax deeply, one can actually create a healthier energy level. We don’t always have to take the power class to build our energy.

This Restorative Yoga and Reiki Class meets on Tuesdays in May from 6:45-8pm at Birmingham Yoga, located at 605 37th Street South. For more information, contact Terri Heiman at 205-201-6985 or email her at Terri@naturalforcesstudo.com.

See Ad on Page 23 and CRG on Page 29.

Healing Waters now Offers Korean-style Hip Bath

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orean-Style Hip Bath is a soothing service that offers many pleasant side effects for those who may have problems with hemorrhoids, yeast infections, infertility issues, hormone imbalances, menstrual disorders, hot flashes, and it also helps to tighten the vagina according to Korean Folklore.

It has been used among Koreans for over 600 years. In fact, many other cultures have some type of vaginal care rituals for their women. It is new to the U.S. and is believed to offer something very special. Those who have tried one for the first time feel like something was being given back to them that had been lost or stolen. Try it for yourself, to see what you feel. Healing Waters has rounded up some very special organic herbs for their Hip Bath cleanse that will be sure to please anyone.

Call Healing Waters at 205-323-7582 for your appointment. Mention Natural Awakenings and save $15 off the regular price. See Ad on Page 19 and CRG on Page 29.

healthbriefs

More Sleep Helps Shed Pounds

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njoying more zzz’s is not usually associated with weight loss, but a growing number of epidemiological studies suggest that insufficient sleep may be linked to a greater risk of weight gain. The latest results from a study presented at the 2012 annual meeting of the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior points out that sleep behavior influences body weight by affecting not only how many calories we consume, but also how much energy we expend.

When researchers at Tübingen and Lübeck universities, in Germany, and Uppsala University, in Sweden, investigated the effect of short-term sleep deprivation on hunger, physical activity and energy levels, they discovered that insufficient sleep increased the participants’ sensations of hunger by raising the level of the “hunger hormone”, ghrelin. The less sleep a person had, the hungrier they felt.

After only one night of disrupted sleep, the volunteers moved around less and burned off fewer calories in their resting state than their counterparts that enjoyed a good night’s sleep.

Yoga Reduces Depression in Pregnant Women

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regnancy hormones are known to cause myriad physical and emotional symptoms, including unexplainable mood swings. The fluctuations are more serious for one in five expectant moms because they also experience major depression. Now, a groundbreaking study by the University of Michigan offers new hope. Pregnant women identified as psychiatrically high-risk that participated in a 10-week mindfulness yoga intervention experienced significant reductions in their depressive symptoms.

Mothers-to-be also reported stronger attachment to their babies in the womb.

WORKING OUT HOT FLASHES

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ne of the most common and uncomfortable symptoms of menopause may respond positively to a simple, no-cost measure. Health researchers at Penn State report that menopausal women that exercise may experience fewer hot flashes in the 24 hours following physical activity. In this first-time study of objective versus subjective, or self-reported, hot flashes, the Pennsylvania researchers studied 92 menopausal women for 15 days. natural awakenings

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Fewer Scans May Lower Breast Cancer Risk

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hile screening for breast cancer is important, women should avoid unnecessary medical imaging, according to a recent report issued by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) which identified two factors that increased the risk for the disease: post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy and radiation exposure from medical imaging.

Physician Rebecca Smith-Bindman, a professor of radiology and biomedical imaging, epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of California-San Francisco, who contributed to the IOM report, notes that CT scans and other forms of medical imaging have revolutionized medicine and can be lifesaving. However, she recommends that women engage their doctors in the decision-making process and discuss the necessity and safety of all potential radiological scans.

To understand the risks and benefits, it’s suggested women ask their doctor: “Is this scan absolutely essential? Is it necessary to do it now? Are there other, alternative tests [such as thermography]? How can I be sure the test will be done in the safest way possible? Will having the scan information change the management of my disease? Can I wait until after seeing a specialist before getting the scan?”

Midwife-Led Birth Centers Improve Outcomes

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omen that receive care at midwife-led birth centers incur lower medical costs and are less likely to have Caesarean births than women that give birth at hospitals, according to new findings by the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC).

The rising number of Cesarean births in the United States (32 percent in 2010, according to the National Centers for Disease Control National Vital Statistics Report) has generated concern due to short- and long-term health implications for women, their newborns and future pregnancies. The AABC study, which included more than 15,500 women that received care in 79 midwifeled birth centers in 33 states from 2007 through 2010, found that fewer than 6 percent of the participants required a Caesarean birth, compared to nearly 24 percent similarly low-risk women cared for in a hospital setting.

Birth centers—homelike facilities functioning within the health care system— are based on a wellness model of pregnancy and birth personalized to individual needs. “They are uniquely positioned to provide healthy women and their newborns with maternity care, avoiding unnecessary Caesarean births,” advises AABC President-Elect Lesley Rathbun, a certified nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner. “Americans need to learn about the high-quality care that midwife-led birth centers offer.”

Source: American College of Nurse-Midwives

BETTER CARE THROUGH MEDITATION

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esearchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center, in New York, suggest that primary care practitioners can improve their communications skills and quality of care via training in mindfulness meditation. A majority of the doctors participating in a recent study reported experiencing an improved capacity to listen more attentively and respond more effectively to others, and do it in a more non-judgmental frame of mind. The scientists found that both doctors and their patients believed the quality of care improved following the training.

Source: Academic Medicine

NATURAL OILS LOWER CHOLESTEROL

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ccording to new data presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions, people that switched to cooking with a blend of sesame and rice bran oils experienced noteworthy drops in blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. The 60-day study in New Delhi, India, involved 300 participants and showed that cooking with a combination of these oils in a variety of ways worked nearly as well as a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication.

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

Honoring Veterans Helping Troops Return Home to Meaningful Work Colin and Karen Archipley, owners of Archi’s Acres, in Escondido, California, daily honor contributions by America’s armed forces by helping combat vets return home to a fresh start doing meaningful work through their Veterans Sustainable Agriculture Training (VSAT) program. Established in 2007, they can now list 160 ongoing agribusinesses nationwide led by program graduates. “This instills confidence in the veterans as together, we tap into their abilities to adapt and overcome, to take on a challenge and to know themselves and seek improvement,” says Colin, who served with the Marine Corps.

This year, the couple is expanding the program by launching 10 one-acre certified-organic hydroponic greenhouses as incubators sparking future VSAT-graduate businesses.

For more information, call 800-933-5234, email Karen@ArchisAcres.com or visit ArchisAcres.com.

Veggie Power Food Revolution Day is May 17 Food Revolution Day, a collaborative effort between the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation in the United States, the Better Food Foundation in the UK and The Good Foundation in Australia, aims to get people around the world talking about real food and food education. Last year, the global day of action encompassed more than 1,000 events and dinner parties among families and friends, school associates, work colleagues and community neighbors in 664 cities in 62 countries.

To get involved, visit FoodRevolutionDay.com.

Nearing Equality Gender Pay Gap is Eroding Recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that women now earn 82 percent as much as men, up from 64 percent in 1980. This latest figure represents median annual earnings for full-time, year-round workers, including self-employed, but not seasonal workers.

Progress has also been made in gender segregation within the labor market, with many previously male-dominated fields including law, banking, medicine and civil service jobs such as bus drivers and mail carriers opening up to women. In 2012, President Obama cited his signing of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act as a second-term issue for addressing gender discrimination.

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Camp Revamped Anti-Bullying Tenets Enhance Summer Fun Many summer camps have taken steps to prevent bullying, reflecting mainstream trends. Attendees at Camp Dark Waters, a Medford, New Jersey, residential camp for ages 7 through 16 founded on Quaker principles, are asked to abide by a list of Anti-Bullying Campers’ Rights:  I have the right to be happy and to be treated with kindness. No one will laugh at me, ignore me or hurt my feelings.  I have the right to be myself. No one will treat me unfairly because I am fat or thin, fast or slow, strong or weak, a boy or girl. I am different because I am myself.  I have the right to be safe. No one will hit, kick, push or pinch me. I will be free from physical threats.  I have the right to hear and be heard. No one will yell, scream or shout and my opinions and desires will be considered in any plans we make.  I have the right to learn about myself. I will be free to express my feelings and opinions without being interrupted or punished.

Bullying campers are warned that if they fail to honor these rights, they’ll be sent home.

Source: MetroKids.com

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naturalpet

Outdoor Options for Feline Friends Safe Ways to Let Them Explore

by Sandra Murphy

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hile some cats are content to stay indoors, others want to go outside. Even if they remain in the yard, letting them out without a plan can put them in danger. Gently managing a cat’s outdoor experience can instead ensure a consistently safe, enjoyable time without worry or compromising its freedom. A few guidelines will help.

Make the Garden Safe Cats love to chew on greenery, so set up a small pot or two or a small flat of grasses. Most cats enjoy munching on oat or wheat grasses and relish treats of fresh catnip and catmint. Marigolds can repel fleas and basil will both ward off mosquitoes and complement family meals.

Many plants can be toxic.

Veterinarian Jane Brunt, executive 12

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director of the nonprofit CATalyst Council, in Annapolis, Maryland, advises: “Make sure the plants in your garden are safe, in case your cat is tempted to taste anything. Say no to foxglove and lily species, since they’re poisonous to cats.”

Find an extensive list of both safe and problem plants at Tinyurl. com/ASPC-ToxicPlantGuide. Note that aloe vera, asparagus fern, philodendron, dieffenbachia, tomatoes and many varieties of ivy are also among species that can cause consequences ranging from an upset stomach to kidney failure and even death, if ingested.

Protect from Predators “Never leave a cat outdoors unattended,” says Dr. Cindy Houlihan, owner of The Cat Practice,

in Birmingham, Michigan. “During the day, problems can include stray cats, hawks or loose dogs. Another danger is the movement of foxes, raccoons, coyotes and owls close to urban areas where the food supply is more plentiful. Elderly cats are particularly prone to harm. An enclosure is the best way to keep a cat safe outdoors.”

Paris Permenter and John Bigley, bloggers at CatTipper.com, an online magazine for cat lovers, built a “catio” for daytime use by their felines. Located in Cedar Park, Texas, their four rescue cats need protection from coyotes. “It’s attached to our house, like a small screened porch,” explains Permenter. “The cats use an open window that’s fitted with a cat flap for access; we also have a human-sized screened door, so that we can go in to clean the room.

It’s enriched their lives and given a former community cat a better home, as well.”

In Wheat Ridge, Colorado, Jane Dorsey, volunteer coordinator for the Cat Care Society, utilizes “habicats” both at the shelter and at home.

Because her first cat, Chessie, was an escape artist, Dorsey decided to use a large dog pen (12 feet long by six feet tall) as an enclosure. Stood on end, it attaches to the house and has a weatherproof panel roof. A cat door leads to the kitchen. “Chessie’s personality improved because she was able to decide when to go in and out. For easy cleanup, we used pavers for flooring.”

In lieu of safe garden access, experts suggest likewise setting aside a small area inside any enclosure for a pot of plants. Also, pet tents made by Sturdi Products and Kritter Kommunity facilitate more portable enclosures.

Houlihan finds that, “In case of a sudden change in weather, the cat can avoid heat stroke or a scary storm.”

Then there’s the live entertainment

inspiration

Listening to Inner Wisdom factor: “Cats love vertical space, so a cat tree or actual tree limb, properly anchored, can let him have a better view of birds, lizards, toads, chipmunks and squirrels without harming them,” she says. “It’s like kitty television.”

Go for a Walk A mesh-enclosed stroller allows a cat to ride in safety while the walker burns calories. In case of a sudden noise or loose dog, the cat can’t escape.

Houlihan also recalls a patient called Uti (pronounced YOU-tee), that was prone to chewing electrical cords. “His owners now take him outside for a daily stroll; he’s no longer bored and has quit chewing.”

Adopted from a local shelter as a kitten, Makai also goes for accompanied walks. Due to heavy traffic near their Baltimore, Maryland, row home, Andrea Martin, a manager with Brand Public Relations, and her husband Nick, use a harness and leash to take her outside. “We often get the, ‘You’re taking your cat for a walk?’ look,” relates Martin, but that hasn’t stopped this adventurous team.

“She likes taking a break from being indoors,” she explains. Make sure the harness fit is tight enough so the cat can’t wiggle out of it.

With proper planning, any kitty can safely enjoy the great outdoors and the sun on its back.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO.

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INSTINCTS TO HEED

by Dr. Judith Orloff

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istening to our instincts can help us stay safe and deal better with life-or-death decisions. Making the most of the wisdom of this inner voice also enables us to live a more satisfying life in the moment. How do we choose which gut feelings to trust? Here are five messages we’ll be glad we paid attention to.

“Something feels wrong in my body.” Listening to our body’s subtle signals is a critical part of exercising an intuitive sense. The body is a powerful intuitive communicator, delivering early warning signs when anything feels off, weak or just not right, so that we can address it sooner, rather than later.

“I’m in danger.” Social conditioning has helped to create unconscious beliefs that can cause flawed first impressions and ill-advised snap decisions; it’s vital that we check our subjective feelings against mental rationalizations. If some person or situation feels untrustworthy, pause to pay attention, even if the feeling might later be proved inaccurate.

“I want to help.” Evolution has inherently enabled us to quickly “read” faces and other emotional signals. For example, the sympathy instinct nudges us to change the subject when wedding talk makes a newly divorced colleague cringe or general conversation about past rough landings makes an airplane seatmate

nervous—subtle gestures that can make a big difference in another’s day.

“I know how to do this.” When tempted to overthink something we know how to do, try a little therapeutic distraction, such as saying the alphabet backwards when a yoga teacher leads the class into a dreaded handstand.

Briefly engaging the mind with something other than the task at hand can leave our instincts free to do their job and enjoy the fulfillment that diligent practice has made possible.

“This is it!” Most people have a great “I just knew it was right” story. It might be about the time they first spotted their sweetheart or crossed the threshold of their new house. When intuition signals that we’ve found something or someone truly right for us, the choice often becomes easy. It feels healthy and good, without resistance or conflict.

Using our instincts helps lead us to smart choices that improve our quality of life.

Judith Orloff, M.D., is the author of the international bestseller Second Sight, upon which these tips are based. An assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California-Los Angeles, Orloff synthesizes the pearls of traditional medicine with cuttingedge knowledge of intuition and energy medicine. For more inspiration, visit DrJudithOrloff.com. natural awakenings

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Hormones and Happiness

by Elizabeth Campbell Korcz, MD

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ife seemed carefree and long when you were very young…the teen years and early twenties carried on so slowly. And we all thought nothing would ever change. Then, as we all grew up, had families, careers and more, we blinked—and suddenly we’re in our forties, fifties, sixties, and beyond. Women tend to dedicate their lives to relationships: friends, family, and kids. At the end of the day, we are left with ourselves, and (perhaps) a spouse or significant other.

Menopause is defined as the time in a woman’s life where fertility stops, and the monthly menstrual cycle ceases.

That’s it. But, it is so much more than this…Perimenopause can be just a year or two, or can last ten years. This is a time of hormonal shifting and imbalance. Some women come through it just fine, and others have near-unbearable symptoms and changes. There is a lot of talk about hormones, lately, and it’s hard to know what is the right thing to do.

Symptoms. We know the primary symptoms of hormone changes and menopause. Hot flashes occur, where a woman breaks out in a terrible sweat all over, as the body attempts to have a “normal” cycle. Uncomfortable, and sometimes very frequent, it leads to embarrassment, poor sleep, and the need to carry spare clothes everywhere. Menopause can cause skin changes like dryness, itching, wrinkles, age spots (and more), as well as hair loss of volume and shine. Psychological changes like depression, anxiety, irritability, and “snappy”-ness may occur.

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Finally, physical and sexual changes such as loss of libido and responsiveness to sex, dryness of tissues, and even pain.

Controversy. So what’s a girl to do? To take hormones or not to take hormones…Mainstream medicine’s pendulum has swung back and forth so many times; it can make a gal dizzy.

Used to be that everyone got hormone replacement therapy (HRT), until a large study found that hormones could increase cancer risk, heart disease, blood clots, and more. Now, almost nobody gets hormones from the OB/G. Both of these are wrong.

As a physician, I see this as an individual’s choice, combined with the individual case-by-case history. There were a lot of flaws in that big study, that are still being argued; and they used horse-derived hormones, not natural Bioidentical ones.

Choice. We all need to do a risk-benefit analysis when speaking of hormone replacement. Women with a personal history, or strong family history of cancers should NOT take hormones.

Those with few symptoms, or not bothered by them should probably not run the risk of HRT (or use an herbal only), while those with moderate to severe symptoms, and life disruption definitely should take hormones. How long to be on hormones depends on the woman, her health, and her doctor.

Solutions. There are many choices for hormone balancing and HRT. Some natural herbals and supplements can help with hormones and menopausal symptoms. Some examples include Black

Cohosh, which can help hot flashes; Wild Yam, which can act like progesterone for calming; Soy products, which act like estrogen for skin and hair; Evening Primrose, to restore moisture; and many others. For many patients, an herbal supplement is all they need to feel themselves again.

If that doesn’t work, I would suggest bioidentical hormones from a compounding pharmacy. Always start with low doses, and increase only if necessary. Commonly, we treat symptoms, and not lab numbers.

Many women find their symptoms are better, even when the lab values still read “low.” (We do levels mostly to check that we are not too high.) HRTs come in so many forms, with different ways to take them. There are topical skin creams, pills, sublingual drops or trouches, vaginal creams, or even rods and pellets (inserted under the skin). Each have advantages and disadvantages, so talk to your doctor about what is best for you. Topicals can rub off on family members, pills sometimes get degraded by the liver, sublinguals may taste bad, vaginal creams may be messy, and implantable hormones are difficult to adjust or remove once they are done.

Individualize. Be aware of your own issues. Your problems may be dryness and hot flashes. Your solution might be an herbal black cohosh, with a low dose (low risk) vaginal cream. Your sister’s issues might be “brain fog”, depression, and low libido.

Her solution might be an estrogen topical, and testosterone subligual. Still your neighbor might have insomnia, mild hot flashes and skin/hair changes. She might use just an herbal blend and be fine!

So, if you are a woman concerned about hormones, talk to a knowledgeable doctor about all your options, and start feeling your best now.

Happy Mother’s Day. Dr. Elizabeth Campbell Korcz has a growing, innovative practice in Hoover that augments Traditional Family Medicine with Complementary and Alternative medical therapies and practices. She is currently accepting new patients. Hoover Alt MD, 3421 S. Shades Crest Rd, Suite 111, Hoover. Call 205-733-6676 to schedule an appointment today. See ad on page 2.

Aging Gracefully It’s No Mystery: We Now Know How

by Kathleen Barnes

M

ost of us like to think that we’ll be vibrant, energetic, smart and yes, gorgeous, until the end of our lives. This isn’t an unattainable fantasy—even if past poor lifestyle choices may have tarnished some much-anticipated Golden Years.

Fortunately, it’s never too late (or too early) to make key small changes that will immediately and profoundly influence our ability to live long and healthy lives.

Experts recommend that a handful of simple, scientifically validated health strategies will help us age gracefully and beautifully.

“Most of us are living longer, but not necessarily better,” advises Dr. Arlene Noodleman, medical codirector of Age Defy Dermatology and Wellness, in Campbell, California. “Many people face decades of chronic debilitating disease, but you can minimize or even eliminate that period of life and maximize health.

It’s all about your lifestyle.”

Rules to Live By Whether the goal is disease prevention, retaining a sharp mind, weight control, balancing hormones, maintaining good posture or supporting glowing skin, all the experts Natural Awakenings asked agree on a core strategy that can extend life and improve its quality in later years: Take a walk. Or, undertake another enjoyable form of outdoor exercise for about 30 minutes a day.

Greet the sun. Exposing bare skin to sunlight for 15 minutes three times a week allows natural production of vitamin D. Researchers at Boston University, Harvard University and others attest that sufficient doses of the vitamin help prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression, obesity, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, relieve menopausal symptoms and support longevity.

Drink plenty of water. Hydration is key to cell health and overall proper body functions. Aim for consuming one ounce of water every day for every two pounds of body weight.

Eat a healthy diet. This means lots of vegetables and fish, some lean meats and poultry and moderate amounts of fruits and grains for weight control; abundant antioxidants to prevent deterioration that leads to chronic disease; and vital nutrients to support and extend life. Avoid sugars in all forms, simple carbohydrates, processed foods and for many, wheat and wheat gluten, especially for those with excess abdominal fat.

Get a good night’s sleep. Eight hours is more than beauty sleep. Studies consistently report that it’s essential for energy and the prevention of a host of diseases, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer (Nurses’ Health Study; plus UK research in Diabetes Care, the European Heart Journal and British Journal of Cancer). Regular turning in and waking times, plus sleeping in a dark room, are important to optimize melatonin production; it is not true that we need less sleep as we age.

Use the right supplements. Take a high-quality multivitamin every day, preferably an organic product based on whole foods for optimum nutrition. Fish oil is also essential for nearly everyone for heart, brain and joint health. Vitamin D is critical, especially in the winter months and for darkerskinned people that need greater sun exposure to manufacture it. Also add curcumin; according to numerous clinical studies, including those from Baylor University and the University of California-Los Angeles, it can help prevent and even reverse cancer, Alzheimer’s, osteoarthritis, skin diseases and digestive disorders. natural awakenings

May 2013

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Prevent Dementia Caregivers for parents or other relatives with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia are often concerned about experiencing such regression themselves. “There is some evidence that a tendency to memory loss can be inherited, but in any case, there are things you can do to prevent and even possibly reverse memory loss,” counsels Noodleman.

Reducing stress is the best way to keep a sharp mind, she says. “Chronic stress inhibits the cerebral cortex (the brain’s gray matter, responsible for higher mind function, including memory), resulting in a lack of judgment and other impaired brain function. So, manage stress and memory function will improve.”

Deep breathing and increased oxygenation of the blood helps relieve stress and deliver nutrients to brain cells. Practicing yoga postures like the shoulder stand and headstand, or exercises using an inversion table, for just a few minutes a day can improve circulation to the brain and may help keep brain cells intact.

“It’s important to keep brain cells healthy and alive by keeping blood sugars and blood pressure under control,” urges Doctor of Osteopathy Lisa Ganghu, an internal medicine specialist and clinical assistant professor at New York University’s Langone Medical Center, in New York City.

High blood pressure and diabetes are risk factors for strokes and mini-strokes that result in brain cell impairment, she says, adding, “Some research even suggests that caffeine may improve memory and focus.”

“Use it or lose it,” concludes Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, an integrative medical authority from Kona, Hawaii, and author of Real Cause, Real Cure.

Extensive research shows that challenging the brain with puzzles and language courses, having an active social life and getting regular exercise are all related to maintaining optimum brain health.

“People who age gracefully are

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physically and mentally active,” adds Noodleman.

Prevent Disease A proper diet is a good place to start to take control. Ganghu recommends largely plant-based diets, like the Mediterranean, to keep common repercussions of aging at bay.

Teitelbaum contravenes traditional medicine’s stance and says that most people don’t need to worry about salt intake, even if they suffer from high blood pressure, noting, “Research shows that people that follow the national guidelines for salt intake tend to die younger. Instead, it’s important to keep magnesium and potassium levels up by adding 200 milligrams of magnesium and 500 milligrams of potassium to your supplement regimen every day.”

To prevent and control diabetes, Teitelbaum emphasizes, “Avoid sugar; it causes premature cell aging that affects all body systems.” He explains that excess sugar and its byproducts age and stiffen cells. Dozens of studies directly link sugar and aging, including a PLoS Genetics study from the University of Montreal. (Also see Tinyurl. com/GlycationExplained.)

Reproducing cancer cells typically don’t die as other cells in the human body are programmed to. Recent research by Baylor University and others based on the Human Genome Project

strongly suggests that curcumin taken as a dietary supplement (400 mg a day or more) can persuade cancer cells to commit suicide and stop their wild and potentially fatal reproduction.

Ganghu further recommends limiting exposure to environmental toxins from sources such as common garden and household chemicals and agricultural spraying (choose organic for safety).

Weight Control A large body of research from institutions such as the National Institute on Aging and the International Longevity Center shows that avoiding obesity and managing weight is paramount for longevity, as well as for preventing many of the diseases associated with aging.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that people with a body mass index (BMI) over 35 are at an 18 percent higher risk of earlier death from all causes than those that maintain a normal body weight (BMI of 25 or under).

Hormones can be a factor in weight gain for perimenopausal and menopausal women, says Ganghu, so it is important to be tested. She also notes, “A loss of muscle mass due to aging can affect weight because muscle tissue is metabolically more active than fat tissue, creating a vicious circle.” She recommends strength training to improve muscle strength and mass.

Typically, two 20-minute sessions a week with moderate weights are enough to create “Michelle Obama arms,” says Kathy Smith of Park City, Utah, a DVD fitness entrepreneur and a spokesperson for the International Council on Active Aging.

Good Posture “We spend a lot of time driving, working on computers and other activities with our arms in front of us. This causes chest muscles to contract and become tight as we age, drawing the head forward and rounding the spine, which produces a pronounced slouch,” says Smith, author of Feed Muscle, Shrink Fat Diet.

Bending, stretching and strength training strengthens the shoulder and back muscles that help us stay upright.

Smith recommends a “walking desk”, essentially a treadmill with a board across the arms where a laptop can rest, and the user walks at only one to two miles per hour. “You’re moving, not sitting, and that is really important,” says Smith.

Yoga postures like the cobra and the bow are also helpful, as are visits to a chiropractor or other structural therapist.

Healthy Skin “Your skin is a roadmap of your overall health,” says Dr. Rick Noodleman, a dermatologist who practices anti-aging medicine in California’s Silicon Valley with his wife. He explains that skin aging is caused by the three D’s: deflation, descent and deterioration. All of them can be reversed.

Deflation is the loss of volume and moisture, which can be offset by proper internal hydration, healthy nutrition and good moisturizers. “People can make new collagen well into their 80s and even 90s,” he says. Deterioration is the loss of skin tone and elasticity that can accompany stress, poor diet and lack of exercise.

Noodleman recommends regular exfoliation of skin on the face (an economical home facial with baking soda and water or eggs is high on his list) and dry brushing the whole body.

He also notes that new laser treatments, acupressure facelifts and other spa treatments can help temporarily minimize wrinkles and bring back a youthful glow.

It’s not hard to be vibrant, healthy and energetic at any age if one is living a healthy lifestyle. “I feel like I am 30.

I expect to feel that way for the rest of my life,” says the 60-something Teitelbaum. “Of course, I’m not at the beach in a Speedo,” he quips. “Who wants to look 20? There is also a certain beauty in age.”

Coffee Klatch Redemption New research from the Harvard School of Public Health confirms that drinking two or three cups of coffee a day can help deal with the following risks later in life.

Alzheimer’s – may slow or stop the formation of beta-amyloid plaque.

(University of South Florida, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease) Cancer – antioxidant properties may lower the risk of hormonally related cancers like endometrial, aggressive prostate and estrogen-negative breast cancers.

(University of Massachusetts, Nutrients) Diabetes – helpful for short-term blood glucose control; long-term use increases the body’s level of adinopectin, a hormone that assists in blood sugar control and insulin production.

(Kyushu University, Japan, Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine) Heart attack – moderate use has been associated with a slightly lower risk in women. (Tohoku University, Japan, The Journal of Nutrition) Stroke – up to four cups [maximum] a day may lower the risk of stroke. (Kyung Hee University, Korea, meta-analysis, Korean Journal of Family Medicine) Caveat: Excessive amounts of caffeine can also cause health issues, especially as we age. Consult with a health professional to determine usage appropriate to the individual.

Kathleen Barnes is a freelance writer, book author and blogger. Her most recent title is 10 Best Ways to Manage Stress.

Learn more at KathleenBarnes.com. natural awakenings

May 2013

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Cutting Through the Nutrition Nonsense

5 Meals

x5 Ingredients =1 Week of Healthy Eating

by Steve Dupont, RD, LD

C

onfession: While I very much enjoy perusing recipes in glossy food magazines and coffee table sized cookbooks, I rarely make any of the recipes. Excuses, excuses. Namely, that 1) the recipes contain at least one ingredient I rarely if ever use, like oyster sauce or capers, or 2) contain too many ingredients, period.

Besides, I don’t like to follow recipes. It makes me feel like I’m in a science lab, and I’ve never performed well in science lab. Escaped fruit flies, spilled acid, Bunsen burners going up like Roman candles…it’s a wonder I’m alive!

So, my objective this month is to give you five go-to recipes I’ve developed over the years. After making these once or twice, you should know them by heart and be able to improvise with them. Don’t stress about ingredient amounts. Think about the meal and how

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you want it to taste. That will guide how much of each ingredient you use. Experiment. There’s no danger here (aside from sharp knives, open flames, etc).

You can do this. In fact, I know you can do BETTER.

Pasta with Flank Steak and Cherry Tomatoes 5 main ingredients: pasta, flank steak, cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh mozzarella cheese Directions: Cook the pasta and set aside. Any kind will do, but I like a nice penne or garganelli in this dish versus a noodle type. Mince the garlic, cut the cherry tomatoes in half and cut the mozzarella into small chunks. You should notice a defined grain to the steak (streaks of fat and/or connective tissue). With a long sharp knife, cut the steak against the grain (perpendicular) into less than ½-inch slices. Sprinkle

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with a liberal amount of seasoning such as HarvestEating.com’s Montreal Steak.

Heat a skillet to medium-high heat and coat with olive oil. Add the steak and keep it moving around with a spatula or kitchen implement of choice. After a minute or so, add the tomatoes and garlic. Continue moving everything around until the steak is just a little pink in the center. Turn off the heat and add the cheese. Stir around until the cheese starts to melt. Serve over the pasta and drizzle with more olive oil if desired.

Mixed Green Salad with Apples and Chicken 5 main ingredients: mixed greens, apples, chicken, red onion, hard cheese (parmesan, romano, asiago, etc.)

Directions: Take boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and cover with olive oil and seasoning, such as HarvestEating.com’s Greek Chicken

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Divorce Mrs. Dash Let’s be honest, this relationship isn’t working out. She’s a stale old hag, I’m sorry. If she were a Spice Girl, she’d be Mediocre Spice at best. Believe me, once you give your food the seasoning it deserves, you’ll be embarrassed you were ever seen in public with that tasteless trollop.

I don’t care what your level of cooking experience, you can be a rock star in the kitchen without much effort if you follow three basic rules: 1) select the freshest, highest quality food you can find and/or afford; 2) don’t burn or cook the food to death; and 3) for heaven’s sake, season the food well!

As for point 3, the most vibrant, flavorful seasonings I’ve ever tasted are those from Chef Keith Snow and HarvestEating.com. Chef Keith’s smallbatch blends are complex in structure, yet couldn’t be easier to use. Products are tailored for chicken, beef, pork and seafood. They come in large containers, too, so you can use copious amounts and they still last for months. Plus, he also distributes some amazing “single estate�

California olive oil. This stuff puts those big corporate brands to shame. I could drink it for breakfast and ask for seconds!

(lemon is good too, although that’s another ingredient). Then grill, sautÊ or bake to perfection. Meanwhile, coarsely chop the greens. Dice the red onion and apple. Slice off ribbons of cheese with a potato peeler (or use pre-grated cheese).

Dice the cooked chicken and combine everything in a salad bowl with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper to taste.

Sweet Bell Peppers Stuffed with Chickpeas and Cous Cous 5 main ingredients: sweet bell peppers, chickpeas, cous cous, garlic, feta cheese Directions: Cut peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds and stems. Coat with olive oil and put on a sheet pan. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare cous cous according to directions, then stir in raw minced garlic, canned (rinsed) chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, seasoning such as HarvestEating.com’s Northern Italian plus salt and pepper to

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taste. Remove peppers from oven and fill with cous cous mixture. Return to oven for further 2 minutes then serve.

Healing Waters

Baked Fish with Salsa 5 main ingredients: fish, salsa, avocado, lime, rice Directions: Cook rice by your preferred method (2 cups water or broth to 1 cup rice). Take skinless, boneless fish such as flounder, snapper or halibut and place on a large sheet of parchment paper. Cover the fish in olive oil and seasoning such as HarvestEating.com’s Seafood, then spoon a generous amount of fresh salsa (not that New York City stuff!) over the fish and fold the parchment around the fish making a neat package (find a video online if you can’t figure this out). Bake the fish at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. Top the baked fish with sliced avocados and lime juice, serve over rice.

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Veggie Frittata with Gruyere Cheese

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5 main ingredients: eggs, cherry tomatoes, garlic, kale, gruyere cheese Directions: Slice the tomatoes in half, mince the garlic, chop the kale and grate the gruyere. Beat the eggs (about 2 per person). Turn the oven on to broil with the rack about 6-8 inches below the top heating element. SautÊ the veggies in a medium-hot skillet coated with olive oil for about 2 minutes, seasoning along the way with something like HarvestEating.com’s Northern Italian.

Add the eggs, do not stir. Cook for another minute or two, until eggs start to firm up, then top with grated cheese.

Put skillet under broiler, watching closely, until surface begins to bubble and brown slightly. Remove and serve.

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Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength. ~Betty Friedan

Steve Dupont, RD, LD, is a registered dietitian and founder of Dupont Dietary Consulting LLC. A “true believer� in the power of nutrition, Steve is committed to serving those wishing to enjoy delicious food while reaping its health benefits. Specialties include weight loss, energy balance, supplements, cooking and meal planning.

205-213-7953. SteveDupont.com. natural awakenings

May 2013

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The Embodiment of CranioSacral Therapy

by Margaret J. Pittenger, MSPT, A partner at EMBODY Manual and Movement Center

A

s a physical therapist, I discovered CranioSacral Therapy by accident. I was attending a conference taught by a well known orthopedic PT and thought I was going to be doing Manual Therapy. The teacher had, however, begun to seek new information about the human body. After 30 years of practice he was seeking a deeper understanding of our human structure. What he found was the Osteopathic process called CranioSacral Therapy. Like this teacher, I became humbled and overwhelmed by the nonverbal communication that is present but unacknowledged. Here was a way to hear, interpret, and interact with our cellular world. At the time, I was teaching verbal communication to college students. What I was feeling that weekend with my hands was so much more efficient and concise that words became empty vessels.

The originator of CranioSacral therapy was Dr. William Garner Sutherland. In the 1880s he was working as an osteopathic doctor and perceived that there was more to the structure and

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function of the nervous system than was being taught. He developed research avenues that showed the cranial vault was not solid but changed in small amounts with the pressure of the ventricles that make and pump the cerebral spinal fluid from the brain down the spinal column to the sacrum. This pumping action creates a rhythm not unlike but different from the heartbeat and the breath rhythms that are so obvious.

Because this rhythm is perceivable, measurable and consistent, he showed that it could be monitored and changed back to homeostasis after injury or chronic complaints. Dr. Sutherland called his technique “thinking fingers,” and taught his students to think in multiple levels of tissue when assessing an injury.

Practitioners of this craft perceive the cranial fluid as the tidal waves of the ocean. There is a wave from brain to sacrum called flexion and a return wave called extension. Dr. John Upledger, also an osteopath, developed The Upledger Institute that continues today, as a means to continue the research and teaching started by Dr. Sutherland.

Dr. Upledger moved the work forward with a dedication to research, documentation and development of consistent hands-on skills for interpretation of

injury and restoration of cranial homeostasis. On the weekend that changed my perception, I was learning Dr. Upledger’s modern techniques, cradling a head to perceive flexion/extension and the consistent rhythm.

Dr. Sutherland understood, as did Dr. Upledger, that emotions are also connected to our physiological health and can be supported and changed by changing the underlying physical problems. Dr. Sutherland saw in his work that the body was interconnected, our physical structure interrelated with our function, and form and function mold each other. He felt strongly that drugs were dangerous.

The CranioSacral fluid is developed in the ventricles, a central space within the brain. The fluid is a primary support for survival of sensitive nerve tissue cells from the brain down the spinal column. Rocking the dural tube that houses the spine tissue is a joy to perform and provides a sense of well- being to receive. The ocean wave bathes the tissue, brings food to cell membranes and carries away the waste.

If you have ever seen a high-pressure hose snake forcefully on the ground, you can imagine that kinks in one place produces problems up the line if not “straightened out.” Changing a stuck rhythm requires light touch and subtle movements. It is a hands on therapy but is not massage therapy.

There are now many trained therapists in Birmingham. At EMBODY Manual and Movement Therapy Center we have two light touch gentle neural tube rockers: Rene Yerby, physical therapist and Jill Copeland Henderson, massage therapist. They have experience in problems that can be helped by this touch and perception: birth injuries, neonatal stress, kinks from postural stress, ear infections, head trauma, back and spine issues, numbness and nerve impingement to name just a few.

The embodiment of this technique from the deep neural cells to the brain continues for three days as the body integrates this outside input and boosts the body’s own healing potential. The body can then move from survival mode to thrive with an increased sense of well being. See Ad on Page 24.

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calendarofevents WEDNESDAY, MAY 1 Afri-Spiritus Sembler: Diasporic Art Work of Mero’e Rei – daily through May 10. Mero’e Rei had an interest in art from an early age and began producing works of art as a teenager. His love for jazz, blues, and gospel serves as the inspiration for many of his pieces. His interest in African cave and rock art has inspired his later works. An Alabama native, Rei has shown his work extensively in both solo and group exhibitions. Admission free.

Birmingham Public Library Central Branch, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203. 205-226-3600.

Little Miss GMF pageant, bungee jump, fishing tank, silent auction, free art classes for kids, and cookie eating contest. You’ll find restaurant quality food as well as festival favorites at our food court. Free admission, free parking. Gardendale Civic Center, 857 Main St, Gardendale, AL 35071. 205-514-6799.

Trussville City Fest – 6-9pm Fri; 9am-4pm Sat. Welcome to the 33rd Annual Trussville City Fest (formerly Dog Daze) located in the heart of historic downtown Trussville. This festival has something for everybody: music, dance, children’s activities, food, booths, fireworks, and much more. Admission free. Trussville Mall, 225 Parkway Dr, Trussville, AL 35173.

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Regional Backyard Vegetable Production Workshop – 10am-12pm. Soil testing & reading the results, vegetable diseases, and vegetable gardening basics. Admission free. 54 Kelley Lane, Columbiana, AL 35051. 205-669-6763.

Rosalie Turner, Birmingham Author of Walk With Me – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us as we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Birmingham’s Children’s March by welcoming local author Rosalie Turner as she discusses Walk With Me, her historical novel about the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham in the spring of ‘63. In this multicultural coming of age story, two girls, one black and one white, endure the pain and prejudice of segregation. After her book talk, there will be a book signing. Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

FRIDAY, MAY 3 A Morning with Foot Soldier Janice Kelsey – 10am. Ms. Kelsey will share her experiences during Birmingham’s Civil Rights Movement. Light refreshments will be served. Admission free. Springville Road Regional Library, 1224 Old Springville Rd, Birmingham, AL. 205-226-4083.

Walk This May: Montevallo Celebrates Pomp, Circumstance, and Creativity – 4-8pm. To celebrate Montevallo artists on the night before UM’s spring commencement, University of Montevallo students, alumni, faculty, and staff, as well as other local artists, are invited to sell their wares during our May 3 Artwalk. Join us in the center of the state to celebrate the beginning of spring with art, food, drink, and friendship. Main Street, Montevallo, AL 35115. 205-665-6231.

Gardendale Magnolia Festival – 5-9pm Fri; 10am5pm Sat. Celebrate spring at the award-winning Gardendale Magnolia Festival with over 150 arts/ crafts/business vendors including home and garden special section, large midway carnival, classic car show, 3 stages of live entertainment, pooch parade,

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“Lux Somnia: Light Dreams” – 7:30pm. Innovative local artists, spearheaded by painter, sculptor and digital projection artist Jean-Jacques Gaudel, will use UAB’s Alys Stephens Center as a canvas for digitally projected light dreams. For this event, the entire southern façade of the ASC building will be wrapped and transformed into a giant projection screen. Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294. 205-975-ARTS. AlysStephens.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 4 40th Annual Southern Appalachian Dulcimer Festival – The first (semi)formal event will be a hot dog supper on Thursday evening followed by a big group jam. On Friday, there will be performances all day long by individuals and clubs and a pot luck supper in the evening followed by another large jam. On Saturday, there will be free lap and hammered dulcimer workshops in the morning and an open stage in the afternoon. The only cost is the park entrance fee. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, 12632 Confederate Pkwy, McCalla, AL 35111. 205-477-5711.

Introduction to Study Native Plants – 8:30am4:30pm. This full-day introduction to the study of native plants will begin in the classroom before moving outside, where participants will be able to correlate what they have learned with examples in The Gardens. A broad overview of several topics related to native plants will be covered including: terminology and definitions, why natives?, plant conservation, the use of botanical names, recommended references, designing with natives and how to grow them. Admission charged. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3950. BBGardens.org.

Southeastern Outings Canoe and Kayak Outing, Locust Fork River – 9am. A fun Southeastern Outings canoe and kayak trip on Section 1 of the Locust Fork River in Blount County. This stretch, which several of us have canoed previously, is fairly easy and without classified rapids. Along the river we’ll see lots of wildflowers and stop to investigate islands

and beaches. For details about this trip, please call Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680 or email seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Breath Class with Margaret Pittenger, M.S.P.T. – 9am-12pm, first Saturday each month. This class can assist with anxiety, asthma and allergies, high blood pressure, metabolic imbalance, chronic fatigue and pain, fuzzy brain and disorganized thoughts. The space will be open for meditation for one hour before and after class, available for anyone wanting a quiet space. To register, please contact Margaret at mjpittenger@gmail.com or 205-999-9070. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Hail to the Hydrangea! – 9:30-11:30am. Master Gardener David Doggett will present and explain the various types of hydrangeas and provide guidance on plant placement, sun or shade, plant care, fertilizing, and bloom color. Admission charged. Pre-registration requested. Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216. 205-682-8019.

Photography Hike – 10am. Bring your camera for a photography hike. We will use our camera to hike through the woods. We will meet at the Old Tennis Courts on Terrace Dr. Parking is available at the Beach parking lot (3rd lot on right). Park admission charged. Oak Mountain State Park, 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124. 205-620-2520.

Vestavia Hills Health and Wellness Fair – 10am-2pm. More than 50 vendors from a wide variety of medical and health related businesses will be on site to help answer your health related questions and provide free health information.

Trinity Hospital will offer screenings, and Lifetime Fitness will provide strength and fitness tests. There will be healthy cooking demonstrations, and massage therapists will be on site. Vestavia Hills Civic Center & Wald Park, Gymnasium, 1975 Merryvale Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. 205-978-0100.

Open Meditation – 12:15-1:15pm & 7:45-8:45pm. EMBODY Practice Center will be open to anyone looking for a quiet space to meditate. Props will be available for you to find optimal comfort in your self-guided meditation. Admission free. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. EMBODYbirmingham.com. Info@EMBODYBirmingham.

Easy Container Gardening: Creating a Mother’s Day Herb Garden – 1-2pm.

“Get Into The Gardens” is a new, hands-on demonstrative series that offers weekend visitors to Birmingham Botanical Gardens creative activities to learn practical skills for use in daily life. Admission free. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3965. BBGardens.org.

Birmingham Ballet Presents Artist’s Palette – 8pm. The Repertory Series presents our Repertory Company dancers in a variety of short dynamic works that range from classical to contemporary. Admission charged. BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) Theatre, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North, Birmingham, AL 35203. 205-458-8449.

Ashley L. Lundy, LAc. Doctor Of Oriental Medicine

"$616/$563& t $)*/&4& )&3#"- .&%*$*/&

4735 Norrell Drive, Suite 5 Trussville, AL 35173

(239) 240-5428

alacupuncture.com

doclundy@alacupuncture.com

SUNDAY, MAY 5 Restorative Yoga at EMBODY – 10am-12pm. Join Lauren Brown for a full session of restorative yoga, where your mind and body can rest and renew with the help of props and massage to support the body’s relaxation. $25; $20 if paid before May 3. Limited space so please register with lauren@embodybirmingham.com. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Eco-Wheels 2013 – 11am-5pm. Birmingham’s first ever green vehicle expo will give visitors the chance to learn about the most current trends in alternative transportation, including, hybrids, natural gas and electric vehicles, and scooters. This family-friendly event will also feature a variety of children’s activities, live music, and food. Admission free. Railroad Park, 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-796-7856.

Soulnicity

Synchronicity of the Soul Reiki/Energy Healing Pilates/Mindful Movement Instruction Meditation, Spirituality, Workshops

Nicki Noftz soulnicity.com info@soulnicity.com 205-202-9198 natural awakenings

May 2013

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NOW OPEN

Yoga Breathwork Continuing Education

Tai-ji Quan Meditation Workshops

Come practice at the new Embody Practice Center.

EPC offers wellness promoting opportunities to support and complement your health.

Embody also offers Manual and Movement Therapy · Physical Therapy · Feldenkrais® · Rolfing® · · CranioSacral Therapy · Visceral Manipulation · · Restorative and Thai Yoga Massage · NMT ·

EMBODYbirmingham.com 3918 Montclair Rd · Near Crestline Village · 205.637.0299

See our news brief for more details

Southeastern Outings Dayhike – 1pm. Living River camp property, ShelbyBibb County line. The Presbyterian Church organization of Birmingham is developing a new camp on the Cahaba River. The property has been purchased, but it is not yet developed. On May 5, Southeastern Outings will hike on new trails on the property. The approximately 3-mile hike is rated moderate.

For details about this trip, please call Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680 or email seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Southern Tales At the Gardens – 2pm. “In Her Own Fashion” written and performed by Dolores Hydock. The stories of Ninette Griffith from 2 pm.

General Admission $20. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3965. BBGardens.org.

Arts on the Mountain Piano Concert by Michael Dulin – 2-3pm. Pianist Michael Dulin performs in concert. Dulin was a finalist in the Carnegie Hall International Piano Competition and was awarded the Silver Medal in the Second Annual International Audio-Video Competition in New York. In addition to performing his original music throughout the U.S., Michael appears both solo and with orchestra in performances of classical music. Suggested donation: $10/person. Vestavia Hills Baptist Church, 2600 Vestavia Dr, Birmingham, AL 35216. 205-979-5920.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 Brown Bag Lunch Program: Merry Wives of Windsor Pt. 1 – 12:30pm.

Today we’ll watch the first half of this timeless comedy by William Shakespeare about marital fidelity. Please bring a sack lunch; drinks and dessert provided.

Emmet O’Neal Library (Mountain Brook), 50 Oak St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. 205-445-1118.

Birmingham Therapeutic Services LLC

THURSDAY, MAY 9 Second Thursday Fiction Book Club: The Great Gatsby –10am-12pm. We will discuss F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, which follows Jay Gatsby, a man obsessed with reuniting with the love of his life, Daisy Buchannan.

Gatsby’s quest leads him from poverty to wealth, into the arms of his beloved, and eventually to death. Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal Dr, Hoover, AL 35216. 205-444-7820.

Brews for Books – 6pm-4am. Enjoy brews and live music with a $5 donation to help support The Literacy Council working to help teach illiterate adults to read. Avondale Brewing Company, 201 41st St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 205-326-1925.

Excellence in Academics Enlivened by the Arts – Early Childhood through Grade 8 –

Alabama Waldorf School is a community dedicated to educating responsible world citizens. We combine academic excellence, critical thinking development, and a sense of shared social responsibility. Students learn the skills and values to prepare them for success in high school, college and life. Through a rigorous curriculum of arts and academics, and a teaching approach that honors the individual child, our students learn how to meet life with courage, conviction and compassion for others.

Call (205) 592-0541 to schedule a tour.

Inquiries about tuition adjustment are welcome.

24

Birmingham

Voted “Best Preschool” and “Best Private School” in Birmingham Magazine’s 2011 Parent’s Choice Awards and voted “Best Private School” in 2012

Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett – 7:30pm, May 9-10; 2:30pm and 7:30pm on May 11. The Wherehouse Players present the tragic-comedy in two acts. Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett. Come see this new and original interpretation of this modern classic. Admission charged. The Wherehouse, 3086 Decatur Hwy, Gardendale, AL 35071. 205-631-2221.

FRIDAY, MAY 10 YWCA Mothers Day Flower Sale – 9am-4pm. Great selection of roses, calla lilies, daisies, hydrangeas, cards and more. All proceeds benefit the YWCA’s childcare program for our area’s homeless children. Come visit our tents at Mountain Brook Village (Ray & Poynor parking lot), downtown at Regions Plaza, Childrens Hospital, and Brookwood Hospital in Birmingham.

1220 50th Street South Birmingham, AL 35222

alabamawaldorf.org

NABirmingham.com

Komyo Reiki Level I Training – 6-9pm, Fri; 10am-6pm, Sat. The fundamentals of Japanese-style Reiki Ryoho (Reiki Healing Art) are easily learned in a comprehensive, 10-hour class with hands-on practice to learn self-treatment and treatment for others. 10 CEUs for NCBTMB. $175. EMBODY Practice Center 3918 Montclair Road Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. Register at DragonflyReiki.net

SATURDAY, MAY 11 2013 Spring Walking Tour Series: Five Points 9am-12pm. Five Points South is one of Birmingham’s most sophisticated urban spaces, with the feel of a European plaza. “Five Points South and Environs: A Showcase of Architecture” explores design styles around the circular intersection and along adjacent streets. The tour will conclude with a visit to distinguished churches and apartment buildings, and the recently converted Hassinger-Daniel Mansion Bed and Breakfast. Admission charged.

Vulcan Park and Museum, 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL. 205-933-1409. VisitVulcan.com.

Rain Barrel Blowout – 10am-1pm. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama Environmental Council, and Fallenrock, are hosting an outdoor rain barrel construction event. Two styles of rain barrels and 3 set-up options will be demonstrated. Construct your own ready-to-install 55 gallon barrel with assistance from presenters and helpers. Level of involvement is up to you. Cost varies based on style of barrel and option chosen.

Contact Sallie Lee or Annette Drummonds, 205879-6964, or email annette.drummonds@auburn. edu for more info or to pre-register. Pre-registration is required, cut-off is EOD May 1. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, 20 32nd St North, Birmingham, AL 35222.

Southeastern Outings Cahaba Lily Walk, Hargrove Shoals along the Cahaba River in Bibb County – 10am. Please come with us to see the largest display of blooming Cahaba lilies in the world, acres and acres of them spread out over the water in the river. The hike is about six miles round trip, rated easy. For details about this trip, please call Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680 or email seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Birmingham Rose Society Annual Show – 1pm, Sat-Sun. This show is one of the largest horticultural shows in the southeast typically showcasing 400 roses on display along with beautiful artistic arrangements and stunning photography featuring the Rose. The judging is Saturday morning, but the festivities are all weekend. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3965. BBGardens.org.

Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert –3-4:30pm. The Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra is an ensemble dedicated to giving young musicians in the state of Alabama the opportunity to learn and grow through the rehearsal and performance of great orchestral music in a highly professional setting. Featuring works by Shostakovich and Stravinsky. Admission charged. Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294. 205-975-2787.

AlabamaSymphony.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 12 Southeastern Outings Dayhike, Moss Rock Preserve – 2pm. Explore the wilder side of Hoover

an experienced cyclist, there is a route just for you. $15 to register and $150 fundraising minimum.

St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Health and Wellness, 7191 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242.

205-870-5172 x3070.

on a moderate 2-4 mile hike with some ups and downs on Shades Mountain. We’ll experience the preserve’s diverse natural features which include longleaf pine forests, huge boulders, streams, grassy areas, outstanding views and, when it rains, some beautiful waterfalls. The group will depart at 2pm from the Moss Rock Preserve parking lot on Patton Chapel Rd. For details about this trip, please call Ted Owen at 205-987-7997.

MONDAY, MAY 13 Severe Weather Safety Tips With James Spann of ABC 33/40 – 11am. In the event of a hurricane, tornado or severe winter weather event, planning and preparation is the best way to ensure you and your family’s safety. James Spann, the weatherman at ABC 33/44, will be with us to outlining safety guidelines for all forms of severe to ensure that you and your family members improve your chances of being safe. Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

TUESDAY, MAY 14 The Oxmoor Page Turners Book Club: Life of Pi – 6:30pm, May 14; 2pm on May 29. We will explore Yann Martel’s imaginative and unforgettable Life of Pi. This book provides a magical reading experience, an endless blue expanse of storytelling about adventure, survival, and ultimately, faith.

Homewood Public Library, Boardroom, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

Easy Container Gardening: Building a Pollinators’ Paradise – 1-2pm. “Get Into The Gardens” is a new, hands-on demonstrative series that offers weekend visitors to Birmingham Botanical Gardens creative activities to learn practical skills for use in daily life. Admission free. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3950. BBGardens.org.

Brown Bag Lunch Program: Merry Wives of Windsor Pt. 2 – 12:30pm. Today we’ll finish this timeless comedy by William Shakespeare about marital fidelity. Please bring a sack lunch; drinks and dessert provided. Emmet O’Neal Library (Mountain Brook), 50 Oak Street, Mountain Brook, AL 35213.

205-445-1121.

FRIDAY, MAY 17 Restorative Yoga at EMBODY – 6pm-8pm. Join Lauren Brown for a full session of restorative yoga, where your mind and body can rest and renew with the help of props and massage to support the body’s relaxation. $25; $20 if paid before May 15. Register with lauren@embodybirmingham.com. EMBODY Practice Center 3918 Montclair Rd Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Tour De Cure – 6:30am-2:30pm. A day full of fun and excitement where riders of all levels join forces in the fight to stop diabetes and raise critical funds for diabetes research, education and advocacy in support of the American Diabetes Association. Whether you are an occasional rider or

Cahaba Lily Festival – 9am. The program begins in the morning with indoor presentations by various nature/wildflower groups. Botanist Larry Davenport, an expert on the lilies, presents an informative presentation about the lilies. Lunch is served just before attendees go to the river for viewing the lilies. Admission free, but donations accepted to cover lunch cost. Cahaba Lily Center, Main St, West Blocton, AL 35184. 205-938-7304.

Bottletree Flea Market – 11am-4pm. Vintage, handmade goods, along with other odds and ends.

All kinds of weird and wacky, cool and tacky stuff will be for sale. Bottletree Café, 3719 3rd Ave South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222. 205-533-6288.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Southeastern Outings Dayhike and Beautiful Creek Wade – Quillan Creek, Sipsey Wilderness, Bankhead National Forest. Quillan Creek is located in a heavily-forested area with hemlock trees and high banks alongside. There are numerous (about twelve) beautiful, small falls and various side creeks.

Rated moderately strenuous due to the entire hike being off trail, some elevation gain, and the need to walk in the creek a good portion of the time.

Reservations Required. Call Dan Frederick, 205631-4680 or email seoutings@bellsouth.net by 5pm on Thursday, May 16.

Breaking Ground – 1-5pm. Join the Jones Valley Teaching Farm Junior Board for cocktails on the farm.

Enjoy drink and food pairings from local restaurants and our guest bartenders. Jones Valley Teaching Farm is an urban farm located in the middle of downtown Birmingham, Alabama. Our goal is to improve school achievement and grow a healthier generation, student by student. $25 per person. Jones Valley Urban Farm Gardens of Park Place, 701 25th St North, Birmingham, AL 35203. 205-439-7213.

SUNDAY, MAY 19 Audubon Teaches Nature: Soil Critters—It’s a Tiny World under the Microscope – 1:30pm.

Guest speaker Ellen McLaughlin takes us on a guided tour of the underworld. Get a sneak peek at the world beneath your feet. Microscopes showcasing live specimens will supplement Ellen’s photographs.

Weather permitting, an informal nature walk follows the program. Free, after park admission. Alabama Wildlife Center, 100 Terrace Dr, Oak Mountain State Park. Pelham, AL 35124. 205-663-7930 x4.

natural awakenings

May 2013

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Wonderful Wetlands Hike – 2pm. Did you know that May is American Wetlands Month? Celebrate by exploring Ruffner’s wetlands. Besides looking for creatures within the water with dip nets, we will also participate in the Alabama Amphibian Network citizen science program which increases amphibian awareness, as well as gathers data on amphibian distribution in Alabama. We will meet at the Ruffner Rd entrance. Admission charged. Reservations required. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, 1214 81st St South, Birmingham, AL 35206. 205-833-8264.

RuffnerMountain.org.

Adaptations Screening Party: Philip K. Dick – 2:30pm. Adaptations is Avondale Library’s bookto-film group. For each title, we host a screening party (where we watch the movie) and an AfterParty (where we discuss the book and film). Our title for May is “We Can Remember It for You Wholesale,” which was adapted for the screen as Total Recall.

Patrons are invited to attend either program, and may attend both for the full experience. The programs are free and open to the public. Avondale Regional Library, 509 40th St South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222. 205-226-4000.

22nd Annual Arty Party – 3-6pm. Arty Party is an annual art auction benefiting Birmingham AIDS Outreach. Local, regional, and national artists donate their art to BAO for this event. There are typically over 200 pieces of art with 15 of the pieces in a live auction. The 2013 featured artist is Carol Misner.

Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine will be available. $50 per person. B&A Warehouse, 1531 1st Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35233. 205-322-4197.

MONDAY, MAY 20 Small Business Seminar Brown Bag Lunch: ReferenceUSA – 12pm. ReferenceUSA helps users create marketing plans, conduct competitive analysis, raise funds and locate people. This database has real-time access to more than 20 million businesses, 222 million consumers, and makes research fast and easy. This tool is easily accessible online, at home or in your business, with your library card. Bryce Thornton, Business Librarian at Hoover Public Library, will give a tutorial. Bring a brown bag lunch.

Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

TUESDAY, MAY 21 The A,B,C’s of Medicare – 12pm and 6pm. Karen Haiflich will answer all your questions about the how benefits are currently computed, how to become insured, and how to file a claim. Homewood Public Library, Rm 116, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

Rose Gardening Basics – 6:30pm. An evening with Chris VanCleave—the Redneck Rosarian—in which Van Cleave will share his considerable expertise in selecting, planting, and caring for roses. Admission free. Springville Road Regional Library, 1224 Old Springville Rd, Birmingham, AL. 205-226-4081.

Concertmaster & Friends: A Fiddler’s Tale – 7:30-8:30pm. Jazz, passion and ambition are all part of Wynton Marsalis’s 21st century take on the old tale of a musician’s pact with the Devil.

Admission charged. Brock Recital Hall, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209. 205-975-2787.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22 Brown Bag Lunch & Learn: Mow, Blow, Eco! – 11:30am-12:30pm. No gas required. Try out some battery operated equipment that has the power to get the job done. Instructor: Lee Higginbotham, Advance Mowers. Bring your lunch for this free seminar. No reservations required. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. 205-414-3965. BBGardens.org.

GreenAlabama.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 24 Full Flower Moon Hike – Native Americans named each full moon to capture the spirit of the season.

May was named the Flower Moon because of the abundance of wildflowers blooming at this time of year. We will meet at the Ruffner Road gate on the Irondale side of the mountain and hike to the wetlands to enjoy the glow of the moon and light refreshments. Leashed dogs welcome. This is a flat trail. 2 miles total. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, 1214 81st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35206.

205-833-8264. RuffnerMountain.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 25 Southeastern Outings Canoe and Kayak Trip, Coosa River at Wetumpka – 7:45am. This canoe trip is moderate with one class III rapid. For this trip, you may rent canoes and sit-upon kayaks and paddles from the Coosa Outdoor Center (CoosaOutdoorCenter.com), or bring your own boat. For more essential details about the trip, please call David Shepherd at 205-240-4681. Reservations are required.

Memorial Day Crafts – 10am. Come out to do some crafts to celebrate this holiday. Will take place at the Campground Pavilion. Free after park admission. Oak Mountain State Park, 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124. 205-620-2520.

Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race. ~H.G. Wells 26

Birmingham

NABirmingham.com

Write Club – 10:30am-12:30pm. Meet fellow poets and novelists, flesh out your characters, tie up those dangling plot threads, and share your inspirations!

The Write Club, the library’s monthly forum for amateur writers, will encourage your literary aspirations by providing an environment for you to network, share your writing, receive moral support and offer constructive criticism. Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal Dr, Hoover, AL 35216.

205-444-7820.

Wine and Cheese Hike – 6pm. Join us for wine, cheese and a wonderful view of the city. We will hike to Hawk’s View Overlook and watch the sun set over Birmingham. This is a great opportunity to socialize in the great outdoors while partaking in food, drink, and a spectacular view. Moderate Hike. Approximately 3 miles total. $10/$15 (nonmember). Reservations required. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, 1214 81st St South, Birmingham, AL 35206. 205-833-8264. RuffnerMountain.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 26 Night Hike – 7:30pm. There are a lot more creatures out at night than you think about. Learn about some of them during this hike. We will meet at the Park Office on Terrace Dr. Park admission charged. Oak Mountain State Park, 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124. 205-620-2520.

TUESDAY, MAY 28 Adaptations AfterParty: Philip K. Dick – 6:30pm.

Tonight we’ll be discussing “We Can Remember It for You Wholesale” by Philip K. Dick, which was adapted for the screen as Total Recall. Adaptations is Avondale Library’s book-to-film group. For each title, we host a screening party (where we watch the movie) and an AfterParty (where we discuss the book and film). Patrons are invited to attend either program, and may attend both for the full experience. The programs are free and open to the public.

Avondale Regional Library, 509 40th St South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222. 205-226-4000.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29 Brown Bag Lunch Program: The Kirov Ballet – 12:30-1:30pm. In the grand tradition of the Ballets Russes comes a documentary film portrait of five Russian ballerinas from the Mariinsky Theatre (also known as the Kirov). Please bring a sack lunch; drinks and dessert provided. Emmet O’Neal Library (Mountain Brook), 50 Oak St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. 205-445-1118.

The Better Than Therapy Book Club: Life of Pi – 2-3:30pm. We will explore Yann Martel’s imaginative and unforgettable Life of Pi. In rich, hallucinatory passages, Pi recounts the harrowing journey of being shipwrecked and trapped on a 26-foot lifeboat with a 450-pound Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. Homewood Public Library, Boardroom, 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209. 205-332-6620.

ongoingevents sunday Community Yoga Class – 10-11am, May 5, 12, 19 and 26. We’re excited to offer yoga classes from Andrea Walker at no cost. These are beginner classes as Andrea is pursuing her yoga certification. Please bring a yoga mat or towel and a light jacket. You must pre-register online each week at Freshfully. com/shop/products/Community-yoga-class to get a spot. Freshfully, 200 41st St South, Birmingham, AL 35222.

Mysore Yoga – 10:30am–12pm. Brent. Student works individually, with guidance and adjustments from a teacher on the Ashtanga series of postures.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Sunday Service – 11am-12:30pm. Unity of Birmingham, 2803 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205. 205-251-3713. UnityBham.com.

Community Yoga – 5-6:15pm. Lindsey. Open to all levels. A beginners flow Vinyasa Yoga Class based on the Ashtanga System Donation based class.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

monday Yoga All Levels – 9:30-10:30am. Join Becca Impello for an all levels yoga practice that will explore rotating themes, always with an emphasis on core control and functional daily movement. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, $120 for 10 weeks, payable to instructor. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213.

Register with becca@sosyoga.com. EMBODY birmingham.com.

Plexus Meetings – 6:00pm Find out about weight loss and healthy living with Plexus products and how you can become a distributors. Meetings held at Birmingham Integrative Health located at 159 Main Street, Trussville, AL Call 205-655-2110 for more information.

Ashtanga Flow Yoga, Level 2 – 12-1:15pm. Shawn.

A flow practice highly influenced by Ashtanga primary series this is a great class to boost your energy during your lunch break. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-6374228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Msyore Yoga – 6-7:50pm. Akasha. An exploration of 1st & 2nd series. Students should be familar with Ashtanga primary series. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-6374228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Pranayama Series, and healing chants (mantras) and meditations. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228.

BirminghamYoga.com.

Yoga All Levels – 6-7:30pm Join Lauren Brown for an all levels traditional yoga practice, to include relaxation, basic pranayama (breathwork), asanas (postures), and meditation. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, $120 for 10 weeks, payable to instructor. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. Register with lauren@embodybirmingham.com. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Reiki Techniques – 6:45-8:15pm, Mondays April 15-May 6. In this 4 week workshop, will discuss and demonstrate the following techniques: hand positions, ascended chakras, cord cutting, crystals grids, and breath work to intensify and direct energies, and sensing densities. Must be trained in Reiki 1 or higher. $35 class or $120 entire four weeks.

Terri Heiman, Natural Forces Studio, 605 37th St South, inside Birmingham Yoga. 205-201-6985 or 516-457-3885. NaturalForcesStudio.com/blog.

tuesday Mysore Yoga – 6:30-8am. Brent. Student works individually, with guidance and adjustments from a teacher on the Ashtanga series of postures. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Tai-ji Quan (Tai Chi) – Beginners class at 5:30pm, Intermediates at 6:30pm. First Class free or just come and observe. Embody Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Crestline (next to Post Office). Taught

by Stephen Guesman of Dancing Stone Tai-ji Quan.

205-919-6231. GreenWorks.sg@gmail.com.

Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 5:30-6:45pm.

Kerry. This class is great for all levels. In a Kundalini class we will practice an asana or set of asanas using a specific breath in each pose to initiate the energy to move upwards. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228.

BirminghamYoga.com.

Ashtanga Yoga, Level 2 – 6-7:30pm. Akasha. Level 2 will build on the practice from beginner series, taking the Primary series postures a bit deeper.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Restorative Yoga – 6:45-8pm. Bliss Wood. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

wednesday Pranayama and Kundalini/Meditations – 5:157:30am. Akasha. During this class we will practice an asana set, usually from the Kundalini tradition, to awaken and energize the body. Following will be breathing exercises based on the Ashtanga

Mysore Yoga – 7:30-9am. Akasha. Student works individually, with guidance and adjustments from a teacher on the Ashtanga series of postures. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Community Mat Class – 8:15-9am. Free community mat class taught by apprentices enrolled in a training program. Wednesdays and Fridays 3pm-4pm. Pilates on Highland, 2827 Highland Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35205. PilatesOnHighland. com. Info@PilatesOnHighland.com.

Yoga All Levels – 9-10am. Join Suzanne Graham for this Hatha based class, designed towards a moderate to gentle pace for those who seek a slower physical release and a softer approach to understanding how yoga can heal physical, emotional and mental stress. Appropriate for all levels and will yield adaptive, therapeutic applications for each individual. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, $120 for 10 weeks Payable to instructor. Register with sgraham.bham.rr.com. EMBODY Practice Center 3918 Montclair Road Suite 100. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Chair Yoga with Suzanne Graham – 10:3011:30am. This class provides a practice for those with limited mobility from injury, who cannot sit long or comfortably on the floor, or those who want to explore a different yoga experience. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, $120 for 10 weeks, payable to instructor. Register with sgraham.bham.rr.com. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Basic Hatha Yoga Class – 12-1pm. Lyndsey Robinson. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Yoga for Cancer Patients and Survivors – 1:152:15pm, Wednesdays through May 22. Join UAB’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and Suzanne Graham for a flowing sequence of supported yoga postures, breath work, and meditation, designed to help manage the side effects and stress of cancer. This class is appropriate for all levels and no prior yoga experience is needed. All cancer patients and survivors, with physician’s approval, are welcomed. Please register through UAB at tgw318@ uab.edu or 205-934-5772. pH Balanced Fitness, 3325 Rocky Ridge Rd #211, Birmingham, AL 35243.

Prenatal Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Nancy Roberts. A special class for mothers to be. Prenatal class focuses on the gentle needs of a pregnant woman’s body to ease the discomforts of pregnancy and prepare for the miracle of birth. Pranayama (breathwork) and calming meditations are also used to help relieve stress and bond mother to her new baby. A doctor’s waiver is required for all new students. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222.

256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Primary Series Ashtanga Level 3 – 5:30-7:15pm.

Brent. This is the full Ashtanga led Primary Series with everything in Level 2 This is an all-levels class, but can be considered physically challenging to those who are new to yoga and/or exercise.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

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Beginner’s Yoga – 6-7:30pm. This class is designed to provide progressive instruction on asana (postures) and pranayama (breathwork) for beginners. The series introduces skillful pose alignment and transitions, mindful movement, breath awareness, and guided relaxation. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, or register with a friend for $60 per person. Payable to instructor. Register with lauren@embodybirmingham.com. EMBODY Practice Center 3918 Montclair Road Suite 100.

EMBODYbirmingham.com.

COMING IN JUNE

Be happier, healthier and infused with well-being.

Discover fresh ways to live an inspired life.

thursday Pranayama Yoga – 6-6:30am. Akasha. During this class we use certain healing chants (mantras) Breathing exercises based on the Ashtanga Pranayama Series and meditations. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228.

BirminghamYoga.com.

Mysore Yoga – 6:30-8am. Akasha. Student works individually, with guidance and adjustments from a teacher on the Ashtanga series of postures. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Mantra/Meditations – 8-9am. Akasha. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Yoga All Levels – 10-11:30am. Join Lauren Brown for an all levels traditional yoga practice, to include relaxation, basic pranayama (breathwork), asanas (postures), and meditation. $15 drop-in, $72 for 6 weeks, $120 for 10 weeks, payable to instructor.

EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. Register with lauren@embodybirmingham.com. EMBODY birmingham.com.

Earth Fare’s Family Dinner Night – 4-8pm. Every Thursday from 4-8pm kids eat free. One adult meal of $5 or more receives up to 6 free kids meals. The kids can choose their main item (pizza, pasta, sandwich, quesadilla, etc.), and they will always receive fresh fruits and veggies. Parents can choose anything from the hot bar, salad bar, deli case, sushi, pizza or sandwiches. We have a cafe where families can sit and eat, or we can package everything to go. Earth Fare, 3230 Galleria Circle, Hoover, AL 35244. 205988-2938. EarthFare.com.

Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 5-6pm. Akasha.

This class is great for all levels. In a Kundalini class we will practice an asana or set of asanas using a specific breath in each pose to initiate the energy to move upwards. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228.

BirminghamYoga.com.

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

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Birmingham

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Yoga for Cancer Patients and Survivors – 5:457pm, Thursdays through May23. Join UAB’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and Suzanne Graham for a flowing sequence of supported yoga postures, breath work, and meditation, designed to help manage the side effects and stress of cancer. This class is appropriate for all levels and no prior yoga experience is needed. All cancer patients and survivors, with physician’s approval, are welcomed. Please register through UAB at Teri.Hoenemeyer@ccc.uab.edu or 205-934-5772. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213.

EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Core Vinyasa, 4 Class Series – 6:35-8:05pm. Melissa Scott. A strong vinyasa flow practice with an emphasis on developing deep core strength. Good for all levels and great follow up from Intro and Ashtanga Series. $48 for series. Drop-ins welcome.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

friday Pranayama and Kundalini/Meditations – 5:157:30am. Akasha. During this class we will practice an asana set, usually from the Kundalini tradition, to awaken and energize the body. Following will be breathing exercises based on the Ashtanga Pranayama Series, and healing chants (mantras) and meditations. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228.

BirminghamYoga.com.

Mysore Yoga – 7:30-9am. Akasha. Student works individually, with guidance and adjustments from a teacher on the Ashtanga series of postures. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Yoga for Body Maintenance – 1:15-2:15pm. Join a group of individuals who want a regular time and space to practice yoga that suits each person. This is not a fully guided practice, but more of a semiprivate instruction. This is a great opportunity to receive feedback on your personal practice as you practice. $20/class. Pre-approval required from Becca. EMBODY Practice Center 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213. Register with becca@sosyoga.com. EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Community Ashtanga Flow – 5:30-6:45pm.

Christine S.A. Release stress from the week and welcome your weekend with this energizing and relaxing flow class. Class is donation based, suggested donation is $10. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228 BirminghamYoga.com.

saturday Breath Classes with Margaret Pittenger, M.S.P.T. 9am-12pm, first Saturday each month. This class can assist with anxiety, asthma and allergies, high blood pressure, metabolic imbalance, chronic fatigue and pain, fuzzy brain and disorganized thoughts. The space will be open for meditation for one hour before and after class, available for anyone wanting a quiet space. To register, please contact Margaret at mjpittenger@gmail.com or 205-9999070. EMBODY Practice Center, 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213.

EMBODYbirmingham.com.

Shiva Flow Yoga, Level 2 – 10-11:30am. Lauren.

Inspired by the Ashtanga Primary & Secondary Series, this vinyasa flow class is good for experienced beginners and experienced yogis looking for a heatbuilding practice. Room is heated to 80-85 degrees.

Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222. 256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

Slow Flow Yoga– 12-1:30pm. Jennifer H. A flowing style of yoga that deeply integrates breath, movement, awareness and alignment. Birmingham Yoga, 605 37th St South, Birmingham, AL 35222.

256-637-4228. BirminghamYoga.com.

communityresourceguide ACUPUNCTURE ASHLEY LUNDY, LAC. Doctor of Oriental Medicine 4735 Norrell Dr, Suite 5 Trussville, AL 35173 239-240-5428 Alacupuncture.com DocLundy@alacupuncture.com Specializing in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Using noninvasive treatment to help treat pain, high blood pressure, fertility issues, insomnia, fibromyalgia, and weight loss. Located inside Eastern Chiropractic. Call today for your appointment.

ACUPUNCTURECRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

COLON HYDROTHERAPY HEALING WATERS COLON HYDROTHERAPY Bernadine Birdsong I-ACT & NBCHT Certified Instructor and School 720 23rd St South, Birmingham, AL 205-323-7582 MoreThanColonics.com Detox your body with Colon Hydrotherapy, Infra Red Sauna, and BioCleanse Therapy. We are the only hydrotherapist in Alabama providing colonics with ionized, microclustered, anti-anti-oxidant, alkaline water. We also offer Lipoex®, a non-invasive way to melt fat, reduce cellulite, and tighten skin.

Computerized Biofeedback, Massage therapy, pain management, infra red sauna, light therapy, Koreanstyle Hip Bath, and VibaBody Slimmer are also available. Come and experience the difference. Be sure to ask about the QXCI, “the computer that can tell if your are well.” It is a must for anyone who is serious about improving wellness. Open Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm and Sunday 9am-4pm.

MARGOT WALBERT DOM, AP, CST Licensed/Board certified 3125 Independence Dr, Suite 108 Homewood, AL 35209 205-868-1313 East meets West at McMinn Clinic. Acupuncture Physician (AP), Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), Chinese Massage, and Craniosacral Therapy. Dr. Walbert uses Craniosacral Therappy independently from, or in conjunction with, acupuncture—an approach which established her unique standing within the Integrative Health Care community.

CHIROPRACTIC

36 years of Chiropractic experience, certified herbalist and Reiki Master. Dr. Chabot provides physiological therapeutics, conventional Chiropractic adjustments, decompression therapy, as well as gentle adjustments according to your preference and need. Private treatment rooms provided for your comfort. Also available at the clinic:Massage therapy, Hypnotherapy, Energy Work, Mediation classes, Personal Training, and Yoga classes. Most insurances accepted.

BIRMINGHAM INTEGRATIVE HEALTH Dr. Melanie Miller 159 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-2110 BirminghamIntegrativeHealth.com Facebook.com/Birmingham IntegrativeHealth Dr. Miller brings a commitment to integrative health to her patients in the greater Birmingham area. Her definition of good health goes beyond freedom from disease. She strives for both physical and mental well-being. She is a Family Medicine Doctor with interest in adrenal, thyroid, hormone balancing, nutrition, food allergies, weight loss, herbs, supplements and acupuncture.

HOOVER ALT MD

ENERGY HEALING REV. TERRI A. HEIMAN, RMT Natural Forces Studio, LLC 605 37th Street South Inside Birmingham Yoga Birmingham, AL 35222 516-457-3885 Terri@NaturalForcesStudio.com NaturalForcesStudio.com Reiki Certification Program, Energy Medicine, Vinyasa Krama Yoga.

Crystal, Color & Light Therapy.

Private sessions, classes and workshops.Walk-in Reiki Clinic.

CHIROPRACTOR & HERBALIST Dr. Jeanne R. Chabot 2116 Rocky Ridge Road Hoover, AL 35216 205-822-2177 ChabotChiropractic.com

FAMILY MEDICINE

Elizabeth Campbell Korcz, M.D. 3421 S. Shades Crest, Suite 111 Hoover, AL 35244 205-733-6676 HooverAltMD.com Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Wellness/Natural Medicine, Acupuncture, Weight Loss/ Fitness, Hypnosis, Aromatherapy, Biofeedback, Counseling, Addiction, Botox/ Fillers, Facials.

“A different kind of practice, a deeper kind of care."

FELDENKRAIS (SOMATIC EDUCATION) JENNIFER ROWLEY, LMT # 1039

SOULNICITY: SYNCHRONICITY OF THE SOUL Nicki Noftz 205-202-9198 Info@Soulnicity.com Soulnicity.com

“Inner peace is standing still in the chaos of life.”

Offering Reiki/energy healing, Pilates/Mindful Movement Instruction, meditation, spirituality and workshops. Energy healing can provide deep relaxation, assist in the healing process emotionally and physically, assist in connecting the mind-body-spirit, balance life energies, and help you maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit.

Call or email for more information about energy healing or other services. Two locations available in the Birmingham area.

Certified Feldenkrais® Practitioner 1025 23rd Street South Suite 205 Birmingham, AL. 35205 205-595-3671 Learn to move more easily and with less effort. Learn to move beyond your habitual patterns of movement and posture that may be causing pain or limitations.

The Feldenkrais Method® of Somatic Education (www.feldenkrais.com) offers a way to live more comfortably in your body. Over 28 years experience of assisting others to move better. Call for more information or to schedule a movement lesson.

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FOOD & SUPPLEMENTS

MASSAGE THERAPY

OFF THE VINE ORGANIC PRODUCE

JUDY BOWLES LMT #556, NMT

Serving Birmingham and Montgomery 850-374-2181 Support@OffTheVine.org OfftheVine.org

1025 23rd Street South Suite 205 Birmingham, AL. 35205 205-563-5839 HeyJudy99@gmail.com

All organic—all the t i m e ! We b r i n g t h e farmers market to you.

Check our new selection every Friday and pick up the following week.

Pick up or delivery available.

Massage therapist with 18 years of therapeutic bodywork experience.

I specialize in back, neck/shoulder pain; help with headaches/migraines and range of movement. Deep Tissue, NeuroMuscular Reprogramming, Structural Integration, Thai Massage and Sports Therapy.

Let me help you be pain free.

By appointment only.

HOLISTIC HEALING INTEGRATIVE HEALING

STEPHEN WADE, LMT #2390

Rama S. Khalsa, LMT #238, DAC 1025 23rd Street South Suite 205 Birmingham, AL. 35205 205-329-1272 Ramask10@gmail.com

1025 23rd St. South Suite 205B Birmingham, AL 35205 205-792-1967

Offering an integrative treatment approach for optimal health and wellness through massage, acupuncture, yoga (trained by yoga master Yogi Bhajan), ayurvedic nutritional counseling and energy healing. If you are seeking more vitality through a balanced state of being, please call for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from the daily pressure of life, needing therapeutic sports massage to complement your active lifestyle or for tension and pain relief. I would like to help you so call today for your appointment. Over 5 years’ experience. Specializing in neck and shoulder relief.

HOMEOPATHY CONSULTANT

NEUROFEEDBACK BIRMINGHAM FOCUS CENTER, LLC

JOAN SCOTT LOWE Homeopathic Consultant 1901 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. South Birmingham, AL 35209 205-939-0071 Joan@HomeopathyBeWell.com HomeopathyForWellness.com Call or email Joan Scott Lowe, Homeopathic Wellness Consultant, to determine your individual constitutional remedy, the FDA-approved nontoxic homeopathic remedy based on the totality of your mental, emotional, and physical condition, chosen according to the Law of Similars ("like heals like"). Achieve wellness and freedom from illness!

Tess Powers 2232 Cahaba Valley Dr Birmingham, AL 35242 205-332-5988 BirminghamFocusCenter.com ADD/ADHD, anxiety, pain? Neurofeedback is a cutting edge technology that can help almost anyone improve attention and gain self-control. Birmingham Focus Center is happy to offer brainwave training for these and other issues that keep you from living your best life.

NUTRITION AND GIFTS GOLDEN TEMPLE, NOW 3 LOCATIONS 1901 11th Ave. South, Birmingham: 205-933-6333 3309 Lorna Rd, Suite 7, Hoover: 205-823-7002 110 N. Chalkville Rd, Suite 148, Trussville: 205-655-0353

There is no instinct like that of the heart. ~Lord Byron

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Since 1973, we have been bringing you the best in healthy living. We offer a wide variety of merchandise including vitamins, herbs, supplements, natural foods, organic produce, incense, clothing, books, and gifts.

PSYCHOLOGICAL KINESIOLOGY TRANSCENDING WISDOM Terry Lowry, PSYCH-K Facilitator 2100 Southbridge Pkwy, Suite 650 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-414-7559 TrancendingWisdom.com PSYCH-K is an interactive process.

Within minutes a limiting belief held in the subconscious mind can be changed into a positive belief.

PSYCH-K incorporates Educational Kinesiology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), acupressure, Ericksonian hypnotherapy, and various psycho-spiritual healing systems. Call to set up an appointment for a free demonstration.

YOGA BIRMINGHAM YOGA STUDIO 605 37th Street South Birmingham, AL 35222 205-637-4228 Contact@BirminghamYoga.com BirminghamYoga.com Serving the community, Birmingham Yoga offers and hosts: ongoing yoga classes in two beautiful studios, 200-hour yoga teacher training accredited with Yoga Alliance, morning meditation, exciting workshops and class series, monthly community kirtan, musical events, and rental space for guest speakers and teachers.

EMBODY PRACTICE CENTER 3918 Montclair Rd, Suite 100 Birmingham, AL 35213 205-637-0299 Info@embodybirmingham.com EMBODYbirmingham.com EMBODY Practice Center offers Yoga for all ages, levels, and health conditions. Classes include All Levels Yoga, monthly Yoga Nidra and Restorative Yoga, Beginner’s Series, and series specific to injuries (such as neck and shoulders or low back). EPC also offers Tai-Ji Quan (Tai Chi), Breath/Feldenkrais® Class, Meditation workshops, and various other community and professional workshops.

Functional Medicine: a different approach to get you

“On the Journey to Healthy Living�

Finding the root cause of dysfunctions Speciality and Hard to Find Supplements

Body Composition Analysis Metabolic Testing

Nutritional IV Therapy

Weight Loss

Vibacore Vibrating Platform

Lipotrophic Injections

PlexusÂŽ Products

Call Today for Your Appointment

256-655-2110 Birmingham Integrative Health 159 Main St. Trussville, AL 35173

BirminghamIntegrativeHealth.com

Most Insurances Accepted

Melanie Miller, MD Gwendy Starkey, CRNP Janet Baker, RN

NOT THE BEST SCHOOL YEAR? Retrain Your Brain with Neurofeedback A Drug-Free Solution for Children and Adults, with Proven Results

Brain wave regulation is indicated for:

t ADD/ADHD t Anxiety t "VUJTUJD 4QFDUSVN %JTPSEFST t $ISPOJD 1BJO t %FQSFTTJPO t )FBEBDIFT t .JHSBJOFT t 1FBL 1FSGPSNBODF t 4MFFQ %JTPSEFST

Neurofeedback is Non-invasive: Nothing ever enters the body.

It is based on learning: As you practice changing brain waves, the brain is learning how to continue the changes in the real world.

It is client-guided.

It is designed to create lasting change.

It’s kid perfect because it’s FUN!

Birmingham Focus Center, LLC 2232 Cahaba Valley Drive Birmingham, AL 35242

205-332-5988 #JSNJOHIBN'PDVT$FOUFS DPN natural awakenings

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