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WOMEN’S WELLNESS Rethinking Breast Health Gentle Ways to Give Birth Complementary Cancer Care Summer Camps
May 2015 | Virginia’s Blue Ridge Edition | NABlueRidge.com
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5 newsbriefs 6 ecotip
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 fest styl yle. e. and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
9 globalbriefs 10 healthbriefs
12 CANCER CARE
12 community
Alternative and Complementary Therapies
spotlight
14 blueridge
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by Karen Adams
greentravel
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16 wisewords
10 22
healingways
14 SUMMER CAMPS Something for Everyone by Anne Piedmont
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26 calendar 28 resource directory
advertising & submissions
16 LAURA PREPON’S JOURNEY TO HEALTH Home Cooking, Organics and Massage Are Keys by Gerry Strauss
HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 540-384-1815 or email Publisher@NABlueRidge.com. Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NABlueRidge.com. Deadline for editorial: the 1st of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Publisher@NABlueRidge.com. or fax to 540-444-5668. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 540-384-1815. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
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18 RETHINKING BREAST HEALTH Natural Ways to Keep Breasts Smooth, Pain-Free and Firm, while Reducing the Risk of Cancer by Lisa Marshall
22 GIVING BIRTH
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NATURALLY Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention by Meredith Montgomery
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May 2015
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letterfromthepublisher contact us Publisher Tracy Garland Publisher@NABlueRidge.com Editor Karen Adams Marketing & Advertising Bonnie Cranmer Bonnie@BlueRidgeGreenMedia.com Design & Production Courtney Ayers Karen Garland, Graphic Design Distribution Leigh Anne Woods distribution@nablueridge.com To contact Natural Awakenings Virginia’s Blue Ridge Edition:
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© 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
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elcome to the May issue of Natural Awakenings magazine. Our main topics this month are Women’s Wellness and Natural Birth. We delve into women’s wellness with an interview with actress and author Laura Prepon, who tells how she has adopted a healthier lifestyle. We’ve included some great articles addressing how women can optimize breast health and fend off breast cancer, and also hear Sandy Messionnier’s story. Messionnier blended conventional and complementary treatments to ultimately survive her battle with breast cancer. May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, a subject which has deeply affected the Natural Awakenings team. Karen Adams, our editor, lost her husband, Ed McGrath, to brain cancer earlier this year. Now my mother, Karen Garland, who has served as the magazine’s graphic designer and my all-around, indispensable partner-in-crime, was recently diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer. In honor of our loved ones and others suffering from all types of cancers, we’ve interviewed local practitioners of complementary and alternative cancer care for our Community Spotlight this month. We’ve also compiled some great information about natural birth options for moms-to-be, and I found out I’m in the 1 percent (no, not that 1 percent). Statistics show that fewer than 1 percent of births happen outside a hospital, and I had two of my three sons at home with a certified nurse midwife and a doula. I can attest that I’m glad to be in that minority because those were the two most peaceful and moving experiences of my life. Speaking of babies, I recently attended the Great Cloth Diaper Exchange and Natural Parenting Fair in Roanoke, and met some wonderful doulas and midwives and all sorts of other folks who support healthy and holistic birth and parenting. Look for more information on this and other natural parenting resources in our August “Parenting with Presence” issue. One of the most valuable lessons that birth and death can teach us is that every moment of our lives is precious and worth celebrating. Fortunately, we have a season of beautiful weather and fun, exciting events ahead to help us get out there and celebrate life with our community, friends and family. So, please check out our calendar of events and start making some plans!
Sincerely,
Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
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NABlueRidge.com
Tracy Garland, Publisher
newsbriefs Building the New World Conference brings Global Leaders to Radford
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he “Building the New World” (BTNW) Conference will be held May 28 through May 31 at Radford University, in Radford. Educators, scientists, economists, peace activists and futurists from around the world will join Barbara Marx Hubbard, former vice presidential nominee and leader in the New Age movement, to present lectures and workshops. The conference will focus on the reality that humanity and all life on Earth is threatened in multiple interconnected ways and must quickly implement rational and novel solutions to meet these unprecedented challenges. The event focuses on interdependent sectors of society: education, communications, art, economics, peace building, governance, health, environment, infrastructure, technology and spirituality. Organizer Glen Martin, Ph.D., recipient of the Gusi International Peace Prize and Head of the Radford Peace Studies Department, says, “BTNW will encourage attendees to reach beyond their particular area of interest or expertise and begin the process of synthesizing data across multiple disciplines. This emphasis on networking will underscore the need for real action via transformative and cross-platform solutions.” Conference speakers include The Millennium Project Director Jerome C. Glenn, Huffington Post columnist Valerie Tarico, Ph.D., economist and futurist Robin Hanson, Ph.D., Shift Network Director of Peace Philip Hellmich and Federation of Damanhur Ambassador Shama Viola. Location: Radford University. Cost: $375 ($250 for students) includes four-day conference badge, all meals and dorm room lodging on campus. For more information and registration, call Rev. Laura M. George, J.D. at 276-773-3308 or visit BTNW.org. See ad on page 15.
Unity Church Offers Expanded Bookstore
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nner Journey Gift and Bookstore has expanded its offerings as part of Unity of Roanoke Valley’s renovation and expansion project. Inner Journey carries books by leading spiritual authors such as Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer and Gregg Braden, as well as a large selection of New Thought authors, children’s books and more. The store will also order out-of-stock titles upon request. Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. It honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path. The church is a vibrant, loving, spiritual community demonstrating Christ consciousness, embracing diversity and inspiring personal transformation. Unity of Roanoke Valley was founded in 1971 by the Reverends Alan and Kathryn Rowbotham. Unity of Roanoke Valley, 3300 Green Ridge Rd., Roanoke. For more information, call 540-562-2200 or visit UnityOfRoanokeValley.org. See ad, page 23, and Community Resource Directory, page 28.
FloydFest 2015 Offers Music, Healing Arts and Outdoor Activities
This year’s FloydFest is Fire on the Mountain
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loydFest, the area’s premier annual music and arts festival, will take place July 22 through 26, in Floyd. “Fire on the Mountain” is the theme for this year’s event, which will offer music, healing arts, outdoor activities, local artisans and vendors. Onsite offerings include: a Vendor Village with more than 100 artisans, food vendors, and crafters; a Healing Arts Village with daily yoga classes, meditation sessions and sustainability workshops; and an extensive Children’s Universe, which offers entertainment for young fans. FloydFest also features a variety of outdoor activities, including guided hikes, mountain bike trails, disc golf and river float trips. This year’s musical line-up features bluegrass, Americana and rock, with headliners including Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell, and FloydFest favorites Brandi Carlile and Trampled by Turtles. Artists will be performing throughout the five days of the festival on FloydFest’s nine hand-crafted, timber-framed stages. Ticket options include the High Roller All-Access VIP, which offers perks including premium backstage camping, complimentary catering and beverage services and access to onstage seating. FloydFest also offers a number of “glamping” options with comfortable mattresses, electricity, and lounge areas. Location: Milepost 170.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, in Floyd. For more information, call 888-823-3787, email info@ATWProductions.com or visit FloydFest.com. See ad on back cover. natural awakenings
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ecotip
newsbriefs
Raised Right
Healthy Mother’s Day Brunch Offered at Floyd EcoVillage
Organic Flowers Honor Mom and Mother Earth on Sunday, May 10th The Mother’s Day tradition of gifting mom with flowers, including such perennial favorites as lilies, orchids, tulips and roses, can be practiced in a sustainable manner. Buying organic varieties protects workers, families and the environment. Flowers grown with conventional techniques contribute to the contamination of groundwater and streams through fertilizer and pesticide runoff that can also threaten animal species. Many of the cut flowers are grown in South America, where farms continue to use pesticides that are restricted in the U.S. and cited as highly toxic by the World Health Organization. GreenAmerica.org provides several helpful tips on bringing joy to mom on her special day in eco-friendly ways: Grow Your Own. Buy organic bulbs or seeds in consumer seed catalogs and retail racks or online from reputable sources that include SeedsOfChange.com. Children can then grow their own flowers to make them mean even more. Tips for natural weed and pest control, environmentally friendly watering, making raised garden beds and more are posted at EarthEasy.com/yard-garden. Buy Local and Organic. Support local communities and save shipping costs and energy by purchasing chemical-free organic flowers from a local farmers’ market or community supported agriculture. Online retailers like OrganicBouquet.com and LocalHarvest.org/ organic-flowers.jsp offer U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified organic flowers. Ask Local Florists to Go Organic. Find out if local florists purchase any organic and local flowers, and if not, request that they do so. Also, eschew plastic wraps and vases for eco-friendly flowers to avoid toxic ingredients and the carbon manufacturing footprint. Fun options to hold and showcase the gift include old, recycled Mason and glass jars and bottles or an artistic vase from an estate sale or antique or thrift shop.
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NABlueRidge.com
Floyd native son, Ricky Cox
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pringhouse Community School, in Floyd, is hosting a fundraising Mother’s Day brunch with entertainment on Sunday, May 10, at the Floyd EcoVillage. The brunch will be served from noon to 1:30 p.m., and musical performances will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. The event will support Springhouse Community School (SCS), which provides project-based learning for students in grades 7 through12 at the Floyd EcoVillage. “The event is a healthy way to celebrate Mother’s Day and connect with local history,” says organizer Joe Klein. The brunch will consist of organic and locally sourced food in the Floyd EcoVillage Celebration Hall. The ticket price also includes a presentation of Appalachian songs by Floyd native son Ricky Cox. In addition, SCS students will perform a song about the local history of a farmer whose family has worked the same land for 400 years in Floyd. Tickets are on sale now online at SpringhouseCommunitySchool.org, and in Floyd at Harvest Moon, the Floyd Country Store and Wildwood Farms General Store. Location: Springhouse Community School, Floyd EcoVillage, 718 Franklin Pike, Floyd. Cost: ages 13 to adult, $25 in advance ($30 at the door); ages 5 to 12, $12 in advance ($15 at the door); children up to age 4, free. For more information, call 540-745-4673, email Joe@SpringhouseCommunitySchool.org or visit SpringhouseCommunitySchool.org.
Tick Talks Symposium Addresses Lyme Epidemic
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he Floyd County Lyme Disease Support Network will host Tick Talks, a symposium about Lyme disease, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 16 at the Floyd EcoVillage Events Center, in Floyd. This new event will feature expert speakers, discussions and presentations on Lyme topics, a practitioner’s panel, patient stories and resources. Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, is one of the fastest growing infectious diseases in the country today. Centers for Disease Control studies have indicated that the incidence of Lyme disease in the U.S. may be between 3000,000 and one million cases per year; however, the condition is commonly misdiagnosed. At the onset, patients may experience a rash and flu-like symptoms, and later may suffer debilitating effects such as neurological abnormalities and arthritis. As May is Lyme Awareness Month in Virginia, symposium organizers hope to increase awareness, offer support and resources and bring together the Lyme community for a day of educational programming. The symposium will include presentations, a Lyme diet-friendly lunch,breakout sessions, a practitioners panel on Lyme treatments and patient testimonials, networking, book signings by presenters and socializing. Exhibitors will be on hand to offer products, services and resources that support the Lyme healing and recovery journey. The Floyd County Lyme Disease Support Network is an educational and support group that meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. the Floyd EcoVillage Events Center. Cost: $35.Location: Floyd EcoVillage Events Center, 188 EcoVillage Trail, Floyd, For more information, call 203-592-3681 or visit TickTalks.Eventbrite.com.
Natural Awakenings Helps Sponsor The Real Truth About Health Conference in Orlando
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ore than 30 of the most popular and influential leading thought leaders, experts and authors from a wide variety of wellness fields will be sharing their knowledge, insights and remedies at The Real Truth About Health Conference from May 22 to 31 at the Caribe Royale All-Suite Hotel and Conference Center, in Orlando. This free event is a partnership between the Hippocrates Institute, TheRealTruthAboutHealthConference.com and Brian Clement, Ph.D., author of LifeForce and director of the Hippocrates Health Institute. Joining Clement as presenting authors at what organizers term the nation’s largest health, nutrition and environmental conference, will be Dr. T. Campbell, The China Study; Gary Null, Ph.D., The Healthy Vegetarian; Dr. Helene Caldicott, Crisis Without End; Robert Whitaker, Anatomy of an Epidemic; David Simon, Meatonomics; David Kirby, Animal Factory; Joel Fuhrman, The End of Diabetes; Jeffrey Smith, Seeds of Deception; and director of the film PlantPure Nation, Nelson Campbell, plus many others. “Our Natural Awakenings network of publishers is excited to help support this important event as a sponsor and exhibitor in Orlando,” says company CEO Sharon Bruckman. “We hope our readers will take advantage of this free conference by attending or registering online for these 10 days of empowering information and inspiration.” Those that cannot attend the conference can watch a live stream or a replay of the presentations on their computers. Location: 8101 World Center Dr. For more information and to view the full schedule, visit TheRealTruthAboutHealthConference.com. Those interested in being vendors or other sponsorship opportunities, call 516-605-0459 by May 15. Hotel phone: 407-238-8000. Also visit HippocratesInst.org.
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natural awakenings
May 2015
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newsbriefs Improvements at Explore Park for 2015 Season
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ince taking over operation of Explore Park in 2013, Roanoke County’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism has continued to make improvements to the property. Passive recreation spaces and trails have been maintained and preserved for public use and the Arthur Taubman Center and Mountain Union Church have been renovated and restored. The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at the park features a gift shop, a museum highlighting frontier culture and an audiovisual presentation about the history of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Changes at Explore Park for the 2015 season include: Artisan Crafts: This year the gift shop will carry hand-crafted items from local and regional artisans, including jewelry, pottery, art, carved wooden items, quilted crafts, jams and candies. Starting in June, the Visitor Center will host Artisan Saturdays, featuring demonstrations, book signings and music. Expanded Park Access: This season, visitors will be able to drive farther into the park to access trails, the Roanoke River and historic buildings on the property. New Outdoor Programs: Roanoke County staff members have planned an expanded lineup of recreation opportunities at the park this season including guided nature hikes, stand-up paddleboarding, fly-fishing and wilderness survival classes. Fullday outdoor adventure camps for youth will be available this summer and plans are also in place to launch a free interactive scavenger hunt for park guests in the coming months. For more information and future updates, visit ExplorePark.org.
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Ride Solutions Offers Special National Bike Month Events
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ay is National Bike Month, and Ride Solutions has organized a variety of events to allow people from all backgrounds, skill levels and interests to celebrate. Some of the activities that have been planned for the month include: Clean Commute Challenge: Accept the challenge to walk, bike, carpool, telecommute or take public transportation this May with the annual Clean Commute Challenge. Explore transportation options and earn entries to win great prizes. Bike Shorts Film Festival: The 5th Annual Bike Shorts Film Festival will premiere at Roanoke’s Grandin Theatre at 6 p.m. on May 1. This event offers $1,300 in prizes in several categories: Juried Prize, Best Local Film, Best Music Video and Audience Favorite. Night Rider’s Ball: Join Ride Solutions and Martin’s in downtown Roanoke on May 23 to host the Pimps of Joytime. As always, for the Night Rider’s Ball, your bike is your ticket! Get in free by riding to the show and using the complimentary bike valet or take the Clean Commute Challenge online. Ride Solutions is also hosting a free breakfast, complimentary bicycle repair events and rides. The Bike Month mission is to bring attention to the opportunities and challenges of bicycling as recreation and transportation in central and southwest Virginia. For more information, visit RideSolutions.org/BikeMonth. See Community Resource Guide, page 30.
Solarize Montgomery Program Makes Renewable Energy Affordable
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olarize Montgomery is a New River Valley energy program that helps makes solar purchasing easier and more affordable for residents and businesses of Montgomery County. Building on the success of 2014’s Solarize Blacksburg program, Solarize Montgomery began in April and is available through July 22, 2015. Designed to streamline the process of site assessment, permitting, financing and solar installation, the program helps makes the switch to solar less complicated and time-consuming. Community-wide group purchasing of equipment reduces up-front costs for homeowners and businesses. In addition, the program makes solar energy cost less than standard electricity over the life of the system by combining a time-limited discount, a 30-percent federal tax credit and favorable options for long-term financing. Homeowners or businesses that sign up for Solarize Montgomery are contacted by a vetted solar installer to conduct a satellite site assessment of the house or building to determine if the roof is suitable for installation. The installer then prepares a proposal for the homeowner based on the program pricing. Homeowners who accept proposals are directed to financing options specifically for the program. When financing is secured, the solar installer obtains all necessary permits, materials and equipment, and schedules the installation. Solarize Montgomery is a partnership between Virginia Sun, Montgomery County, the Town of Blacksburg, the Town of Christiansburg, the New River Valley Planning District Commission and Community Housing Partners (CHP). For more information, call Chase Counts, CHP Energy Efficiency Programs Manager, at 540-505-4163 or visit VAsun.org/Solarize-Montgomery.
NABlueRidge.com
globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Corporate Climate Companies Slowly Embrace Sustainability The 2015 State of Green Business report (Tinyurl.com/2015GreenBusinessReport), which assesses the environmental performances of companies worldwide, along with the trends to watch, is produced by GreenBiz, in partnership with Trucost. Collectively, companies have been nibbling at the edges of challenges such as climate change, food security, ecosystems preservation and resource efficiency. One measure of corporate engagement going forward will be proactive involvement on political issues that could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon and more sustainable economy. It remains to be seen whether companies can afford to sit on the sidelines, letting the political process unfold, or worse, play defense against changes that might roil their status quo. 2015 will be an interesting year on multiple fronts, especially with the launch of the new sustainable development goals at the United Nations (UN) in New York this fall, along with UN climate talks in Paris in December. Both will be tests of corporate engagement and resolve in driving the kinds of change many of their CEOs publicly call for. The reports’ findings of companies’ progress in greenhouse gas and emissions, air pollutants, water use and solid waste production are all leveling off or even declining.
Dirty Dollars Stores Filled with Toxic Products HealthyStuff, a project of the Michigan-based Ecology Center, in collaboration with the Campaign for Healthier Solutions (CHS), has released a report, A Day Late and a Dollar Short: Discount Retailers are Falling Behind on Safer Chemicals, about toxic chemicals found in dollar store products. It includes test results for 164 dollar store products such as toys, jewelry, school supplies and household items and found that 81 percent contained at least one hazardous chemical above a level that generates concern. The campaign sent a letter to the CEOs of the four largest dollar store chains, including Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and 99 Cents Only, urging them to stop the sale of these unsafe products, especially to communities of low-income and ethnic families that already live in more polluted areas and food deserts, and adopt policies that will instead protect both customers and their own businesses. Combined, these discount chains have annual sales totaling more than $36 billion and operate more stores nationally than Walmart. The CHS is asking for a comprehensive set of reforms; communities need to let dollar store chains know that they want safer products and join local and national efforts advocating for nontoxic products. Scroll to Dollar Store Report at HealthyStuff.org for the complete test results. Take action at NontoxicDollarStores.org. natural awakenings
May 2015
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healthbriefs
Meditation Improves Brain Health
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arvard Medical School researchers working at the Massachusetts General Hospital have determined that meditation can improve brain health. The researchers studied 16 volunteers that took part in an eight-week mindfulness meditation study at the University of Massachusetts Center for Mindfulness. The participants conducted mindfulness meditation exercises for an average of 27 minutes a day. Before and after the trial, the subjects were given tests and magnetic resonance imaging of their brains. The researchers found that the practice of mindfulness meditation resulted in increased gray matter density in the hippocampus of the brain, an area associated with increased memory and learning capacity, plus a greater sense of compassion and introspection.
Weight Gain in Moms Lowers Toxins in Newborns
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any expectant mothers try to know about everything they put into and onto their bodies as multiple studies are finding that infants are exposed to toxins during pregnancy. A new study of 325 expectant mothers has determined that the baby’s exposure to toxins in the womb decreases when the mother’s weight gain during pregnancy approaches the guidelines recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2009. Women that are underweight at the start of pregnancy are advised to gain between 28 and 40 pounds, women of a healthy weight 25 to 35 pounds, overweight women 15 to 25 pounds and obese women 11 to 20 pounds. The researchers found that expectant mothers with a gestational weight that meets or exceeds the IOM guidelines gave birth to infants with reduced toxin levels. In their analysis of the umbilical cord blood of mothers from Spain, the researchers tested for 14 pesticides and 21 other environmental toxins, including seven polychlorobiphenyls (PCB). Other influencers such as age, education and fish consumption may also be relevant.
To Get Healthy, Get a Healthy Partner
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aving a healthier partner may be one of the best things to do for our own health. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine finds that losing weight, stopping smoking or becoming more active is easier with a partner that has led the way in any or all healthy pursuits. The study authors reviewed data collected by the UK Health Behavior Research Center at the University College London that followed 3,700 couples between 2002 and 2012—most of them ages 50 and older and married. Those that smoked at the beginning of the study were more likely to quit by the end of it if their partners quit smoking, and those that were physically inactive at the beginning of the study were more likely to become active if their partners did so first. About two-thirds of the men became newly active during the course of the study. Men with wives that had lost weight were more likely to also shed pounds during the study, and women with husbands that didn’t lose weight were less likely to do so through the study period.
NABlueRidge.com
anufacturers add preservatives to food products in order to reduce spoilage by killing bacteria and fungus in the container. But that can do the same in the gut, killing good bacteria that help the body absorb nutrients and digest food. Diets high in sugar and carbohydrates also harm the gut, feeding intestinal fungus such as Candida and allowing it to take over. According to Steven Frank, founder of Nature’s Rite, an herbal remedies company, a well-balanced, three-pronged approach can rehabilitate the digestive system. The first step is to kill off the bad bacteria and irritating fungus with a broadspectrum antimicrobial that is biocompatible, yet effective. Frank suggests an enhanced aqueous colloid of silver that is optimized to help clear the microbes out of the digestive system. It’s best taken on an empty stomach, dosing two ounces every two hours for two to three days; this prepares the system for enhanced effectiveness of the following treatment. The second step is taking a good probiotic daily for at least one month. Finally, take a combination of herbs to increase mucus to protect the digestive system and reduce histamine sensitivity, allowing the intestines to rebuild a healthy lining. Steven Frank, innovated herbalist, suggests a combination of plantain, licorice, aloe vera, peppermint, marshmallow root and slippery elm bark. When working to heal the body, basic building blocks are required, so it’s critical that those using this approach take 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C, 10,000 international units of vitamin D and a good B-complex daily. For more information, call 888-4654404 or visit NaturesRiteRemedies.com. See ad, page 21.
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May 2015
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communityspotlight
Cancer Care
Alternative and Complementary Therapies by Karen Adams
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ne of the most terrifying things a person can hear is “It’s cancer.” After that news, life is not the same. Amid the emotional turmoil that follows, it can be difficult to know what to do about cancer care for oneself or a loved one. A variety of alternative therapies can help cancer patients who choose not to follow the conventional path of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, and they can work as complementary therapies for those who do. Wellness practitioner Marcia Garland, of Marcia’s Wellness 4 Life, in Boones Mill, focuses on four main areas of health for her clients: eliminatMarcia Garland ing toxicity, offering proper nutrition, boosting the immune system and prayer. “When a client comes to me with cancer, the first thing we do is look at the conditions that created it, because if you don’t look at that, regardless of treatment, it’s most likely going to return,” Garland says. But everything she does with cancer patients works for those without cancer too.
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Dealing with toxicity is the first element, she says, “because 80 percent of all cancers have to do with a toxic body.” So she considers the parts of the body designed to eliminate toxins: the liver, intestinal tract and colon. “You have to cleanse the liver, make sure the intestinal tract is healthy and move the colon three times a day.” She explains that over 70 percent of the immune system is in the digestive tract. “It sends nutrients to the liver, but if it’s not healthy and the colon is not working, toxins can get into the bloodstream.” Once the colon is working properly, Garland helps her clients with frequent detoxes. Nutrition is the next element. Garland advises her clients on what to eat and what not to eat. “Basically it’s eating real, whole foods as much as possible,” she says, which means an emphasis on vegetarian foods: nuts and seeds, and fruit and vegetables that are raw or lightly steamed. “I encourage eating foods with the least amount of toxins as possible,” she explains. “Nothing out of a can, no hormones, no antibiotics, no chemicals and eating foods the way God made them.” This also means no sugar, because sugar
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feeds cancer, and no soft or carbonated drinks, and Garland reminds clients that dairy and alcohol also contain sugar. “You have to eat foods that support life. That’s how we feel good. That’s what makes us feel better.” Boosting the immune system, through high-antioxidant foods, herbs and supplements, including digestive enzymes and probiotics, keeps it strong. The last part of her wellness plan is prayer, which she says is often the missing link. Her definition of “prayer” also includes meditation, deep breathing, forgiveness and living in gratitude and love. “Any disease has an emotional attachment to it, and I address that a lot. To live a life of wellness, it’s important to be able to let go and forgive.” She helps her clients learn to love themselves enough to take care of themselves. “Even how we think is part of wellness, because we become what we think about,” she says. “Do things in life that you love. Practice gratitude every day. Live in the present. Stay away from toxic people and environments. Fall in love with your life. That’s how we create wellness.” Counselor Laura Rumfeldt, LPC, of Life In Balance Counseling and Wellness, in Christiansburg, works with clients on “bringing their lives into balLaura Rumfeldt ance.” This includes cancer patients, whose lives may feel anything but balanced. “People often are reluctant to get counseling when faced with a health crisis because they think they have to have a mental health diagnosis,” Rumfeldt says. “Counseling is about well-being and wellness, not pathology.” Some of the things that go along with cancer are emotions, such as anticipatory grief, she explains. The mind automatically imagines a worstcase scenario, and the “fight or flight” response sets in. “And we can have anxiety and depression, not only in the patient but also in family members and friends and community.” Counseling can be beneficial by offering coping skills and a safe place to talk. “I think that’s one of the most healing things: creating a safe
Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed
container,� she says. “What you say in the counselor’s office can stay there and not leave those four walls. This allows people to say the thing that they fear the most and deal with that fear.� There’s also the fear of the treatment: Am I going to make it or not? How is it going to affect me physically? How will my family care for me? How will I pay the bills? “Basically, we wonder, ‘What is life going to look like once this begins?’� Counseling can also welcome the spiritual aspect of facing cancer. Rumfeldt defines spirituality as how we find meaning, purpose, joy and connection. “Using the cancer situation, we ask, ‘How do you make sense out of it? What are the opportunities in this situation? Where do I need to take care of unfinished business, with people or projects? Where do I find hope? What keeps me connected to life? In other words, what’s my world view? How do I make sense of life, period?’ It’s that sense of what is greater than what we see in the visible world, the invisible force that guides the world and our part in it.� Other helpful practices are meditation and prayer, and tai chi and qi gong. “These link the mind, body and spirit together, which is the goal; integrating all three of those things,� Rumfeldt says. She also recommends guided imagery. “Just listening to pleasant scenes or having pleasant thoughts, or picturing something specific about the body, like moving gently and seeing all the cells of the immune system coming into balance and taking care of itself,� Rumfeldt says. “Or visualizing
something fun in the future. All of this helps the body heal. Because the body knows what to do if we just get out of its way.� When licensed acupuncturist Greg Johnston, of Dancing Crane Center of Chinese Medicine, in Salem, sees cancer patients, he offers “the Greg Johnston five branches on the tree of Chinese medicine�—acupuncture, nutrition, herbs, exercise (qi gong) and bodywork —to help his clients feel better and stay as healthy as possible. “Cancer patients usually come to me if they are already getting some type of treatment like chemo or radiation, and they may want relief from side effects such as nausea, or they have had surgery and may be seeking pain relief from that,� he explains. Others come to him as part of their treatment, to help achieve certain health goals. Still others may have cancer in their families, or had it themselves in the past, and they want to learn how to prevent it. “The one thing that’s never addressed is: How did it come to be in the first place?� Johnston says. “Often they realize that and want to be proactive so it doesn’t happen again.� He begins with acupuncture, he explains, which is regulated and safe. “Unlike Western medicine, nothing is being introduced into the body: it’s a solid, stainless steel needle with virtually no chance of infection.� Acupuncture is used to regulate the body’s function, treat disease and ease suffering and pain.
Nutrition is another element of Johnston’s wellness program. Food is more than just its vitamins, he explains. “If it’s kale or steak, each will do different things to the body. And when we come down with some problem, like cancer or heart disease, your diet should change to address that. We want to stop doing some things that aggravate the condition and implement the healthy things that will help.� Chinese herbs also work with nutrition to alleviate problems and boost immunity. Johnston teaches qi gong as well. “It’s a form of exercise but is driven by the mental intention— ‘What am I trying to do?’—and coordinated breathing, and we do it all in a relaxed state.� Qi gong works on the physical level of moving the muscles, as well as the intentional level of breathing, to correct imbalances in the body. He will also offer tui na massage, a form of bodywork that is similar to osteopathic and chiropractic manipulation. “It can be quite restorative,� he says. “It can reduce blockages in the body and it can be incredibly relaxing. That’s so important, regardless of the health conditions: to be able to relax and let the body heal.� Addressing the whole self in this way brings results throughout a patient’s life. “When I’m treating someone, I expect to see a change in their physical well-being, spiritual well-being and emotional well-being,� Johnston says. “Their spirit-soul is part of it. That’s how medicine should interact.� For more information, visit MarciasWellness.com, LifeInBalanceCenter.com and DCQiMed.com.
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natural awakenings
May 2015
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Virginia Western Community College arboretum
blueridgegreentravel
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE by Anne Piedmont
S
Please join us for: greendrinks 2nd Wednesday of each month
5 to 7 pm
1327 Grandin Rd., SW Roanoke Info@GrandinCoLab.com
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Virginia’s Blue Ridge
ummer camp has certainly evolved. Whether campers are interested in robots, rocketry, vegetable gardens, 3D printers, ziplines or sketchbooks, there are summer camps in the Blue Ridge region, both day and overnight, that offer something for everyone. Virginia Western Community College’s Kids College offers young campers a chance to explore careers during the summer with camps that “mirror the college’s programs,” says Paulette Parkhill, Coordinator of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning, whose office runs the summer programs. For example, “Horticulture: Reap What You Sow,” a camp open to rising 4th through 7th graders, is operated in connection with the school’s horticulture program and the arboretum. During the week-long session, campers learn about vegetable gardening from start to finish, including seed sowing, crop scheduling, soil preparation, transplanting, fertilization, watering, plant care, insect and disease control, harvesting and food storage and garden cleanup. Last year, they planted a garden near the deck at the arboretum. “Girls in Construction,” for girls going into grades 7 through 12, makes use of Virginia Western’s Autodesk Inventor and 3D printer to provide hands-on experience. The college has teamed with Habitat for Humanity to build a shed on campus. They will work with blueprints, solid design and building tools, says Parkhill. In addition to Habitat, a num-
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ber of local entities are contributing to the camp, including Branch and Associates, Inc., Hughes Associates Architects and Engineers, MB Contractors, Inc., Lionberger Construction and the National Association of Women in Construction. Parkhill says all 16 of the Kids College camps are STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) related. Other popular camps include “Robotics,” “Minecraft Designers,” “Fast and Furious Keyboarding” and “The Human Body Shop.” For a different camp experience, Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, in New Castle, offers a variety of programs designed to give campers a “true wilderness adventure,” says Mark Gill, director of administration. The camps get involved in challenging outdoor activities such as ziplines, rock walls, high rope elements and pole climbing. “At the end of their sessions, they will have learned about the environment and gained confidence and leadership skills,” Gill says Campers eat around a cook circle and sleep in a different place each night, moving about the 500-acre property, as well as nearby state and national parks, and carry all their gear in backpacks. “It’s definitely something they won’t forget,” says Gill. The session ends with “Wilderness Adventure Olympics” and skits about the week at a big bonfire. Nearly half of campers return the next year. “It’s the most amount of adventure you can pack into a short time,” Gill says.
Taubman Museum of Art
The Science Museum of Western Virginia offers 11 weeks of different summer camps. Campers range in age from pre-kindergarten through middle school, says Miriam Musco, Director of Education. The youngest campers can learn the basics of building and engineering, or be junior scientists. Older children get to explore rocketry, fossils and general science and learn about nature “in the heart of the heart.” All programs offer hands-on science experiences and are a supplement to the school year, Musco says, adding that the museum’s current exhibit, “Dinosaurs and Fossils,” will serve as a backdrop for some of the programs. Virginia Tech Carilion’s Medical Research Camp, offered by the science museum but held at the VTC School of Medicine and Research Institute, in Roanoke, is for campers entering grades 6 and 9. It allows campers to conduct experiments in anatomy and medicine, learn from leading research experts, and interact with the institute’s state-of-theart equipment. The museum also is offering two sessions for girls only, one for rising Kindergarteners through second grad-
ers, and one for rising 3rd through 5th graders. These campers will spend their time exploring hands-on science, including some activities inspired by the PBS show SciGirls. It also will feature women in STEM fields and chances to work in groups as well as independently.
The Taubman Museum of Art also offers eight weeks of summer camp for children. Hillary Hardison, Children’s Education Manager, says, “My favorite part of the summer program has been coming up with the lessons,” such as sketching field trips, working on the museum’s balcony above Williamson Road and playing games in the galleries. Hardison ties the camp sessions to the museum’s exhibits and galleries and offers campers a look behind the scenes. Some of this year’s sessions will focus on nature, including creating art with natural materials, as well as being inspired by nature, and connecting to other arts, such as music and theatre. Registration is open now for these camps. Don’t miss out on these unique summer adventures! For more information, visit VirginiaWestern.edu/KidsCollege/, WildernessAdventure.com, smwv.org/SummerCamps/ and TaubmanMuseum.org/ Main/Summer-Camps. Anne Piedmont is a writer and research associate based in Roanoke. For more information, visit PiedmontResearchAssociates.com.
natural awakenings
May 2015
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so you get the marrow; I’m partial to knuckle bones. I always have soup broth in my refrigerator.
wisewords
Laura Prepon’s Journey to Health
What’s key to your ability to naturally stay healthy and fit in the midst of an intense schedule of work and travel? I love modalities like acupuncture, massage … all of that. I fully believe in keeping energy flowing to benefit the functioning of all our organs. As school kids, we learn about the circulatory system and central nervous system, but who knows much about the lymphatic system? It’s extremely important, and people are starting to get the idea. Activities like yoga, swimming and bouncing on the trampoline can help.
Home Cooking, Organics and Massage Are Key by Gerry Strauss
F
rom That ‘70s Show to Orange is the New Black, actress Laura Prepon has long been considered by TV audiences to be a welcome image of health. Yet Prepon’s recent discovery that she’d been falling short in nourishing her body as effectively as possible has set in motion a complete redirection of lifestyle, from her diet to fitness routine. Now working on a book about clean living and eating due out next year, Prepon has rededicated herself to educating us just as much as she’s entertained us through the years.
photo by Michael Simon
Do you see society’s penchant for medicating as a way to avoid listening to and addressing our body’s real needs?
How do you manage to consistently eat local organic food instead of fast food? My mother was a gourmet chef and an advocate of organic food, so we always had amazing meals growing up. Eating organic produce that’s in season locally seems to help me assimilate nutrition more readily. Whenever I can, I also try to tap into biodynamic agriculture, which takes an even broader holistic approach to food production and nutrition. I view GMOs [genetically modified foods] as toxic to the system. As a self-taught chef, I like to cook at least 80 percent of my food at home and bring meals to work so I don’t stress about food during the day. It feels good to get people together in the kitchen and I’ve taught friends how to cook healthy foods in simple ways, so they now bring their own meals with them to work. It’s all about preparation, so that you’re not just grabbing something on the run. Knowing what’s going into the food we’re eating is important.
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Why do you include a lot of soup in your diet? With all of the GMO food sprayed with chemicals in the typical American diet and the other environmental toxins everyone has to deal with, our gut flora, intestines and bodies in general are becoming compromised. Ten years ago, few had even heard of gluten allergies unless you had celiac disease, which was rare even then. Now, everywhere you go, there’s a gluten-free option. I love eating soup because the healthful ingredients I use are broken down completely, so the body can immediately assimilate needed micronutrients, which help heal us from the inside out. I’m talking about homemade broth from grass-fed beef bones,
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I do. That’s why I study Eastern medicine, because I feel that Western medicine treats problems and Eastern medicine prevents problems from happening. I grew up in a family of doctors and “full-on” Western medicine and respect the medical community. Unfortunately, these days, most people are continually medicated and they’re not getting better. As a society, we tend to just take a drug to handle a symptom instead of addressing the actual cause of the problem.
As a celebrity, do you see yourself as a conduit to facilitate a shift away from unnatural lifestyles? Yes. The reason I decided to write a book was because I’ve been struggling with a bunch of different ailments in secret for a long time. When I began working with my integrated health coach, Elizabeth Troy, I started to heal for the first time in all the years of reading books on health, diet and fitness, seeing doctors, taking loads of pills and spending crazy amounts of money on all of these activities. I want to help people struggling to regain their health to get answers. Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.
BoteWourt Farmers’ Market Daleville Town Center Daleville 540-556-3014 Manager@BotetourtFarmersMarket.org Facebook: BotetourtFarmersMarket Saturday, 8am-12pm May through October
Blacksburg Farmers’ Market Blacksburg 540-238-8290 BBFarmersMarket.com Saturday, 8am-2pm Wednesday, 2-7pm
Locally grown vegetables, fruits, KHUEV SODQWV FXW ÀRZHUV ZLQH chicken, pork, beef, cheese, baked goods, and artisan candles, stationery, jewelry, woRdwork, photos, music and more!
A bounty of fresh, locally grown, raised and produced foods and goods available at the Market.
LEAP Grandin Village Community Market 2080 Westover Ave. SW Roanoke (behind the Grandin Co-Lab) 540-632-1360 Markets@LeapForLocalFood.org LeapForLocalFood.org Saturday, 8am-12pm Late April - October
LEAP West End Community Market 1210 Patterson Ave. Roanoke (Market Pavilion behind Freedom First Bank) 540-632-1360 Markets@LeapForLocalFood.org LeapForLocalFood.org Tuesday, 3-6pm Late April - October
Year-round farmers market in Grandin Village, offering meat, produce, and artisan foods produced withLQ a 100-mile radius and matching 61$3 EHQHÂżWV WR
Year-round farmers’ market in the West End, offering meat, produce, and artisan foods produced within a 100-mile radius and matching SNAP EHQH¿WV WR
RETHINKING BREAST HEALTH Natural ways to keep breasts smooth, pain-free and firm, while reducing the risk of cancer. by Lisa Marshall
W
e’ve been conditioned to narrowly define breast health in terms of pink ribbon campaigns, cancer awareness marches and cold, steel mammography machines. Nearly 30 years after anticancer drug maker Imperial Chemical Industries (now AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals) established the first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 1985, many women have come to equate healthy breasts with cancer-free breasts, and assume the most important thing they can do is undergo regular screening. But amid this chorus, some women’s health advocates are striving to get a different message across: There are a host of steps women can take to not only fend off disease in the future, but keep their breasts in optimal condition today. “We need to change the conversation about our breasts from how to avoid breast cancer and detect it early to how to have healthy breasts and enjoy them,” says Dr. Christiane Northrup, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Yarmouth, Maine, and author of the new book Goddesses Never Age: The Secret Prescription for Radiance, Vitality, and Well-Being.
Healthy Breasts, Healthy Body In adolescence, breast changes are the first to signal the arrival of womanhood. When she’s aroused, a woman’s nipples harden and change color. When a woman gives birth, her breasts fill with life-giving milk. “In all these ways, your breasts are deeply connected to your femininity, compassion and sensuality,” says Hawaiian Naturopathic Doctor
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Laurie Steelsmith, co-author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health. Because breasts are extremely sensitive to hormonal fluctuations throughout the body, they can also serve as a barometer of overall health. “If you’re having chronic breast symptoms, it can be your body’s wisdom saying, ‘Help. Something’s wrong.’ Women need to listen.” While some premenstrual swelling and tenderness is normal, exaggerated or persistent pain is often a sign of systemic estrogen dominance in relation to progesterone. It’s common in the years leading up to menopause, but can also hint at impaired thyroid function, because low levels of thyroid hormones have been shown to boost estrogen in breast tissue, advises Steelsmith. Large, fluid-filled cysts or fibrous lumps, while non-cancerous, can also be a reflection of overexposure to harmful chemicals and toxin buildup, combined with poor lymph flow, notes Dr. Elizabeth Vaughan, an integrative physician in Greensboro, North Carolina. “If a woman has lumpy, bumpy breasts, they probably contain too many toxins, and those toxins are primarily estrogenic.” Addressing such symptoms is important not only to relieve discomfort, but also
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because excess estrogen can fuel future cancer risk, says Vaughan. Any new, suspicious lump should be evaluated by a professional. Also, severe breast tenderness combined with nipple discharge could be a sign of infection or a problem with the pituitary gland, so it should also be checked. But typically, subtle natural healthcare steps can go a long way toward restoring breast wellness. For nipple tenderness, Steelsmith recommends chaste-tree berry (175 milligrams [mg] of powdered extract or 40 drops daily). The herbal supplement mimics naturally occurring progesterone in the body, helping to counter estrogen dominance. Vitamin E (400 to 800 international units [IU] per day) and evening primrose oil (1,500 mg twice a day) have also been shown to alleviate breast tenderness. For fibrous or cyst-filled breasts, Vaughan advises supplementing with iodine (up to 12.5 mg per day via kelp, seaweed or oral tablets) or applying an iodine solution to the breasts at night. A key constituent of thyroid hormones, iodine helps the liver convert unfriendly forms of estrogen into friendlier forms and flush toxins out of lymph nodes in the breast. Also, steer clear of chocolate and coffee,
because caffeine is believed to interact with enzymes in the breast, exaggerating pain and lumpiness. Also consider ditching the bra, says Vaughan. Brassieres can constrict lymph nodes and hinder blood circulation in breasts, locking toxins in and aggravating fibrocystic symptoms. The link between bras and breast cancer risk remains hotly debated, with one 2014 U.S. National Cancer Institute study of 1,400 women concluding unequivocally that, “There’s no evidence that wearing a bra increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” while smaller studies from the United States, China, Venezuela, Scotland and Africa suggest a link. Vaughan, the founder of BraFree.org, says the science is compelling enough that she has chosen to keep her own bra use to a minimum and advises her patients to do the same. “Obviously, there are certain sports where you should wear a sports bra and there are certain dresses that only look right with a bra,” says Vaughan. At a minimum, avoid wearing a bra to bed and steer clear of underwires and overly tight bras that leave red marks. “This is not about guilt-tripping women into never wearing a bra. It’s about wearing a bra less.”
Beautiful Breasts Naturally Too small or too big, lopsided or riddled with stretch marks… it seems almost every woman has a complaint about the appearance of her breasts. That’s a problem, says Northrup, because, “Healthy breasts are breasts that are loved. We have to stop beating them up.” According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number
of women getting breast implants for cosmetic reasons ballooned from 212,500 in 2000 to 286,254 in 2014. Physicians—including Northrup— claim that modern implants don’t, in the majority of cases, promote disease like older silicone implants did. Yet even plastic surgeons warn that having implants should be fully thought out, and at some point they’ll probably have to come out. “They are manmade devices, and are not intended to be lifelong. At some point, you will probably have to have further surgery,” says Dr. Anureet Bajaj, an Oklahoma City plastic surgeon. Bajaj notes that implants can rupture, forming scar tissue and lending irregular shape to the breast. Often, as a woman ages and her body changes, the larger breasts she chose in her 20s no longer look right and may cause back and shoulder pain. In some cases, implants can also lead to loss of nipple sensitivity. For these and other reasons, 23,774 women—including actress Melissa Gilbert and model Victoria Beckham—had their implants removed in 2014, often following up with a breast lift (using their own tissue) to restore their shape. Vaughan sees breast implant removal as a wise and courageous choice to restore optimal breast health. Better yet, don’t get implants in the first place. “There are a lot of other things you can do to improve the appearance of your breasts,” she advises. Vaughan recommends breastperking exercises like dumbbell bench presses and flys that tone the pectoral muscles beneath the breasts, making them more resilient and look larger. To prevent or reverse sagging, she again
urges women to go bra-free. “We have ligaments in the upper outer quadrant of our breasts called Cooper’s ligaments, and they’re responsible for holding our breasts up. Just like your muscles atrophy when you put your arm in a sling, your Cooper’s ligaments atrophy if you wear a bra all the time.” In one unpublished, yet highly publicized 2013 study, French Exercise Physiologist Jean-Denis Rouillon measured the busts of 330 women ages 18 to 35 over a period of 15 years and found those that regularly wore a bra had droopier breasts with lower nipples than those that didn’t. In another, smaller, Japanese study, researchers found that when women stopped wearing a bra for three months, their breasts perked up. Those worried about stretch marks also have options. They can be a sign of inadequate copper, which promotes collagen integrity and helps skin stretch without injury, says Steelsmith. If rapid weight gain is occurring due to adolescence, pregnancy or for other reasons, try taking copper supplements or applying a topical copper spray on the breasts. Remember to massage your breasts daily, not only as a “search and destroy mission” for early detection of cancerous lumps, says Northrup, but as a way to get waste products flowing out and loving energy flowing in. “It concerns me that women feel pressured to think of their breasts as two potentially pre-malignant lesions sitting on their chests,” Northrup says. “These are organs of nourishment and pleasure for both ourselves and others. We need to remember that, too.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.
natural awakenings
May 2015
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ccording to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 40,000 will die annually of the disease. But at least 38 percent of those diagnoses could be prevented via diet and lifestyle changes, affirms the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR). “For decades, the dominant public message about breast cancer has been about early detection,” says Medical Doctor Robert Pendergrast, an associate professor at the Medical College of Georgia, in Augusta, and author of Breast Cancer: Reduce Your Risk with Foods You Love. “Screening is important, but not nearly enough attention is being paid to prevention.” Here’s what we can do to keep cancer at bay or from recurring. Eat more veggies: Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, are loaded with indole-3-carbinol, or I3C, a potent anticancer compound that helps break down excess estrogen and convert it into a more friendly, or benign form, says Steelsmith. One study in Alternative Medicine Review found that women that ate high amounts of cruciferous vegetables were 30 percent less likely to develop breast cancer over 30 years. I3C can also be taken as a supplement (300 milligrams [mg] per day). Eat more fiber, especially flax: Fiber, via whole grains, fruits and vegetables, helps flush out toxins including unfriendly estrogen. Flax contains cancer-fighting compounds called lignans, which block the effects of excess or unfriendly estrogen on cells. Drink less alcohol: Alcohol boosts estrogen levels in women and is broken down in the liver to acetaldehyde, a known toxin that causes cancer in laboratory animals, notes Naturopath
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Laurie Steelsmith. According to the AICR, a woman that has five drinks per week boosts her risk by 5 percent. Two or more drinks per day boosts such risk by more than 40 percent. Skip the barbecue: Charring meat produces carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines. A study of 42,000 women, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found that those that routinely ate welldone hamburger, beef or bacon had four times the risk of those that opted for medium or medium-rare. Keep weight in check: Excessive estrogen, which lives in fat cells, fuels cancer risk. According to the AICR, a woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 (obese) has a 13 percent higher risk of cancer than a woman with a BMI of 25 (slightly overweight). Spice up life: Curcumin from the turmeric plant has been shown in many studies to have potent immune-boosting and anticancer properties, reactivating sleeping tumor-suppressor genes that can kill cancer cells. De-stress: Growing evidence that includes studies from Ohio State University suggest that stress can boost the risk of breast cancer and recurrence, plus heighten its aggressiveness by altering hormones and impairing immunity. One study from Finland’s University of Helsinki followed 10,808 Finnish women for 15 years and found as much as double the rate of breast cancer among those that had experienced a divorce or death of a spouse or family member. Drink green tea: It’s loaded with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant believed to suppress new blood vessel growth in tumors and keep cancerous cells from invading healthy tissue.
Triumph Over The ‘Big C’ by Lisa Marshall
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hen Sandy Messonnier was diagnosed with breast cancer, she faced scary treatment decisions as doctors pressured her to consider all means available. “I was more afraid of the treatment than the cancer itself,” says Messonnier, 52, of Plano, Texas. “I kept feeling like I was being lumped into one big category of all women that got breast cancer, rather than treated as an individual.” With the help of her holistic veterinarian husband Shawn Messonnier, Sandy took a more measured approach, blending conventional and complementary medicine in an individualized protocol the couple describes in their book, Breast Choices for the Best Chances: Your Breasts, Your Life, and How You Can Win the Battle! After careful consideration, Sandy opted for two lumpectomies three weeks apart, instead of a mastectomy, to remove
the small tumor. The second one was done to clear up a few remaining cells indicated by a biopsy. Meanwhile, she took supplements including green tea and coriolus mushrooms to impede the spread of the cancer cells. Several tests helped determine if she needed chemotherapy and the optimum dose for some of her supplements. The results prompted her to decline chemotherapy and opt for a brief stint of radiation while taking the supplements quercetin and curcumin to help combat the fatigue and other side effects. Afterward, she cleansed her body with homeopathic mistletoe, herbal milk thistle and other detoxifying supplements. Then she began the work of keeping cancer at bay. “A lot of doctors never talk to you about what you are going to do after the poisoning [chemo], the burning and
surgery,” she says. “Rather than taking a cancer-fighting drug, I chose to be more mindful of what I do with my body.” Her regimen called for committing to keeping up with the healthy diet, plus regular walks, yoga and Pilates that she believes helped keep the cancer relatively mild to begin with. But she also made some life changes to address the one thing she believes may have driven the outbreak in the first place—stress. She made peace with her mother, which reduced a lot of stress, began to cultivate a spiritual life and now takes time to meditate or walk when she feels even lightly stressed. She also vowed to keep the fear of recurrence from overwhelming her. “Many women never stop worrying about it,” she observes. “That is toxic energy you are putting back into your body.” As of this October, Messonnier will be five years cancer-free. Her advice for women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: “Chemotherapy, radiation and mastectomy are not among the right choices for all women. There are other options, depending on the type of cancer. Don’t be so fearful that you make hasty decisions you don’t need to make.”
Nutritional therapy works best when you can absorb the nutrition... fix the gut FIRST! There are more people today with digestive problems than without. Our damaged food supply and dependence on antibiotics has caused terrible damage to our systems by shifting the flora in our gut. As we take vitamins and supplements, we are missing the biggest question of all: are we absorbing these products? The Digestive Rehabilitation Kit is designed to:
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healingways
Giving Birth Naturally Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention by Meredith Montgomery
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abor and delivery is a natural process that can be enjoyed. “It’s not something to be afraid of,� says Mel Campbell, author of The Yoga of Pregnancy. “It’s a wonderful and beautiful experience. We need to remember that the body is designed for giving birth.� Natural childbirth uses few or no artificial medical interventions such as drugs, continuous fetal monitoring, forceps delivery or episiotomies (cuts to enlarge the vaginal opening). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 32.7 percent of deliveries were by Cesarean section in 2013—most performed in situations where a vaginal
birth would have posed a relatively low risk to the health of mother and child. Entirely natural childbirth is now rare here compared with other countries, but that wasn’t always the case. In 1900, 95 percent of all U.S. births took place in the home; when more moved to hospitals here in the early 20th century, midwives still typically handled the delivery in other countries, sometimes without a doctor present. In America, obstetrics became a profession and a doctor-attended birth in a hospital was promoted as a safer alternative. By 1938, half of domestic births took place in hospitals, and by
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Most births should be viewed as a natural life process instead of a potential medical emergency. ~Abby Epstein, The Business of Being Born 1960 it rose to 97 percent. Currently, midwives attend less than 8 percent of births here, and fewer than 1 percent occur outside a hospital. Natural labor and delivery in a hospital is possible, but, “It’s hard to have an unmedicated birth in many hospitals if you don’t know your rights, understand your physiology and have a doula by your side helping you avoid unnecessary interventions,� says Ina May Gaskin, a pioneering midwife and author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. Key factors to discuss include fetal monitoring, intravenous tubes and the option to eat or drink during labor.
Benefits of Home Births Women choose home births and homey birthing centers because they labor there more comfortably, feel more in control of the process and can more easily avoid interventions. Many moms seek out a midwife’s services because they don’t want to repeat the conventional hospital experience that accompanied their first baby’s arrival. When actress Ricki Lake gave birth to her second child in her home bath-
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tub with the assisinto labor.” By 2006 Cesarean tance of a midwife, She reminds delivery was the number women that the she felt empowered by doing it on her one surgical procedure baby is always getown terms. “Givting nourishment in American hospitals. from all that mom ing birth wasn’t an illness, something eats and breathes ~U.S. Centers for that needed to be in, and also feeds Disease Control numbed. It was off of her feelings something to be and emotions. “The experienced,” she says. more we can feel at peace with ourWhen women let their bodies natu- selves and incorporate the baby into rally lead, labor can last as little as 20 our being, the more we feel a connecminutes or as long as two weeks, and tion and union,” she says. “It’s vital that the spectrum of pain intensity you let your body’s innate wisdom be is equally broad. A healthy prenatal your guide and respect any cues it may lifestyle that prepares a mom-to-be give.” for a natural physical, emotional and Campbell guides expectant mothers spiritual experience of childbirth is through a yoga practice that embraces highly beneficial. the changes occurring each trimester. For example, a more physical practice in the second trimester utilizes the Compassionate Self-Care surge of energy to build stamina and “Pregnancy’s not the time to overexstrength, while opening the heart, hips ert yourself; let go of the temptation and pelvis. to overachieve and instead practice Complementary relaxation techbreathing and mindfulness,” advises niques for labor include breathing Campbell. “If you’re experiencing practices, visualization, meditation and morning sickness, try to embrace it and massage. When a mother isn’t conhow it serves you. By doing so, you’ll nected to monitors and tubes, she’s free be more in tune with your body. These to experiment with positions and props lessons are gifts you can take with you
Conscious Childbirth Resources The Yoga of Pregnancy Week by Week: Connect With Your Unborn Child through Mind, Body and Breath by Mel Campbell Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds by Cynthia Gabriel Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin Your Best Birth by Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein The Business of Being Born a film by Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein Mothering Magazine’s Having a Baby, Naturally by Peggy O’Mara
Unity of Roanoke Valley Sunday Services 9 & 11 am, Weekly Classes, Workshops & Weddings. CelebraƟng all paths to God!3300 Green Ridge Road Roanoke, VA 24019 www.UnityOfRoanokeValley.org (540) 562-2200
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There is a great deal of fear and ignorance about allowing labor and birth to proceed without disturbance. Rates of routine intervention are so high, most nurses and physicians rarely see a fully natural birth. ~Ina May Gaskin such as balls, bars and pillows, plus a warm shower or bath. If a hospital birth is planned, Gaskin notes that labor often slows once a woman leaves the comfort of home, and recommends laboring at home as long as possible. There is no way to predict the course of labor and delivery when women let nature take the lead. Campbell, a mother of three, says, “I tried to focus on the intention of what I wanted for my birthing experience, while also surrendering expectations, knowing that I would have whatever type of birth I was supposed to have.” She adds, “The breath is the most important thing—it keeps us in the moment, helps us to relax and supports us through labor.” While the home birth option is important to America’s new generation of trailblazing women, it’s also significant on a macro level. Gaskin explains, “It’s hard for staff to change routine practices in hospitals but home births make innovation possible.” Home births demonstrated that women don’t require routine episiotomies and have shown how maternal mobility and position changes can help labor progress and free badly stuck babies (earlier methods often injured mother and child). Gaskin has found, “Wherever and however you decide to give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, mind, body and spirit for the rest of your life. No one should have a home birth who doesn’t want one, but it must be one of the choices.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).
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A Mother’s Guide to Natural Childbirth by Meredith Montgomery
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etermining the best birth setting for a mother necessitates sound planning. If an unmedicated birth is a goal, these insights may help in making decisions. Home birth takes place in the comfort of home, typically with the assistance of a midwife, and is suitable for a healthy woman with a low-risk pregnancy. She is able to wear her own clothing and eat as she pleases. Because monitoring of mother and baby is done intermittently, she is free to move around. Confirm the midwife’s training and experience; ask how many home births she’s attended and which obstetricians she consults. Discuss the signs and symptoms that might necessitate a move to the hospital and how quickly it can be done. While a midwife’s fee is often far less than the cost of a hospital birth, not all insurance companies cover home births. A birth center provides personalized, family-centered care in a homelike environment for healthy women. Practitioners follow principles of problem prevention, sensitivity, safety, appropriate medical intervention and cost-effectiveness. A midwife typically delivers the baby, but the collaborative practice team also includes obstetricians, pediatricians and other spe-
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cialists. Mothers experience personal freedoms similar to a home birth, and tubs for water births are usually available, plus other birthing props such as squatting bars, stools and balls. The center should be accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Birth Centers. Inquire what the protocol for care will be if complications arise, learn what the center’s charges for care cover and confirm if the family’s insurance policy will pay for the services provided. A hospital generally has access to the latest medical technology, making it a preferred option for medium-tohigh-risk pregnancies. With proper preparations, an unmedicated birth is possible in this traditional setting. Investigate their rates of Cesarean births and episiotomies and the determining parameters. To allow for an active labor, request intermittent fetal monitoring, avoid intravenous fluids and ask about the availability of birthing props. Become familiar with hospital policies, such as who can be in the delivery room and whether the baby will stay with mom after the birth. If a nurse midwife is not on staff, consider hiring a doula to assist in preparing for and carrying out the family’s birth plan.
Birth Centers: Another Option for Expectant Families
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by Karen Winstead, CNM
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reestanding birth centers are one safe alternative to hospital birth. The relaxed, home-like environment, large warm tubs and personal care from midwives is a perfect fit for many pregnant women. Birth centers also offer options for prenatal care with home or hospital birth, well-woman annual exams and Pap testing, newborn care and breastfeeding assistance. Some offer doula services, childbirth education, group prenatal care, ultrasound and prenatal massage. Midwives assess overall health and make recommendations for changes to improve health. Many women who experience pregnancy-related conditions can be assisted to remain low-risk. Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) can prescribe and administer medications, but may also use various herbs or homeopathic remedies when needed. All licensed midwives can order lab testing and ultrasounds for their clients. Birth centers are cost-effective compared with traditional physician/hospital care. The average C-section rate for low-risk women in birth centers is 5 percent, or 1 out of 20, compared to more than 25 percent, or 1 out of 4, in most hospitals. What if something goes wrong? If medical attention is needed, all midwives make consults and referrals to medical care when it is needed. Referrals may include chiropractors, family practice physicians, obstetricians, physical therapists and nutritionists as required by a client’s condition. Most problems are handled well before they become emergencies. In fact, emergency transport from birth centers is less than 1 percent of transports. In spite of anti-competitive, restrictive state laws, Virginia CNMs are working to make a difference. There are four CNM birth centers in Virginia. A fifth is opening soon in the Fort Chiswell/Pioneer area of Southwest Virginia. There are also at least four birth centers owned by certified professional midwives in Virginia. Karen Winstead is a certified nurse-midwife at New Life Birth Center, in Rocky Mount. For more information about birth centers, call 540-482-0505 or visit NewLifeBirthCenter.net.
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calendarofevents
reserved, $25 at the gate; children/free with paying adult. Chantilly Festival Farm, 2697 Franklin Pike SE, Floyd. 276229-1687. Derek@ChantillyFarm.com. ChantillyFarm.com.
To have your event included in the Calendar of Events, please email Publisher@NABlueRidge.com or visit NABlueRidge.com for guidelines and to submit entries. Calendar entries are due by the 5th of the month prior to publication.
Festival in the Park – 7pm. Continues through Sunday, May 24. Live concerts with national acts, performances from regional and local bands, children’s performances, hands-on activities, arts and crafts, food, 5K and 10K faces, a river flotilla race and more. Elmwood Park, Elm Ave and Jefferson St, Roanoke. RoanokeFestival.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 1 Annual Strawberry Festival – 10am-5:30pm. Continues on Saturday, May 2, 10am-4pm. Berry-filled treats, children’s games and activities, live musical entertainment, food and arts and crafts vendors. $5.50/serving. Advance tickets on website. Corner of Elm and Jefferson Sts, Roanoke. Sponsored by Community School. 540563-5036. StrawberryFestivalRoanoke.com. Bike Shorts Film Festival – 6-8:30pm. Short films featuring bicycles, bicyclists and bicycling in interesting, creative and surprising situations. Screenings in Roanoke, Lynchburg and Blacksburg. See website for details. 540-342-9393. RideSolutions.org/BikeShorts. Community HU Song and Eckankar Book Discussion – 6:45-7:15pm. Community HU Song followed at 7:30pm with an introductory book discussion on Eckankar, The Key to Secret Worlds. The Harmonic Wave Wellness Center, 3201 Hill St, Lynchburg. 540-353-5365. SWVA. Eck.Cntr@gmail.com. Eck-Virginia.org. Eckankar.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 2 Stewardship Virginia - Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake Cleanup - 10am-2pm. Free. Regular parking fees apply. Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Rd, Huddleston. Registration required. 540-721-4400. SML.US.com/Environmental/Protect-SML. Earth Day Celebration – 10am-3:30pm. Come celebrate Earth Day with us! Fun and ecological activities for the entire family. Guest speaker from Mother Earth News. Local food and snacks available. Free local tree seedlings. Free. Floyd Eco Village, 188 Eco Village Trail (718 Franklin Pike Rd), Floyd. Facebook: Floyd Virginia Earth Day. ParternershipForFloyd@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 5 Lynchburg Peace Education Center Monthly Meeting – 7-8pm. Join us for discussion and planning of local peace and justice events. All are welcome. The Peace Practice, 3200 Memorial Ave, Lynchburg. 434609-3437. LPEC.Weebly.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 9 Mother’s Day Tea Party and Wildflower Walk - 11am1pm. Free. Regular parking fees apply. Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Rd, Huddleston. 540-297-6066. Gallop for the Greenways – 5pm. Annual fundraising event supporting Roanoke’s growing network of pedestrian and bicycle trails. 5K race and walk, live music,
food and beverages for adults and children. Wiley Drive near River’s Edge Sports Complex. Sponsored by City of Roanoke, Parks and Recreation. 540-853-1276. Gallop4TheGreenways.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 10 Mothers’ Day at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest - 10am-5pm. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, 1542 Bateman Bridge Rd, Forest. 434-525-1806. PoplarForest.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 16 Happy Tails Family Fun Day - 10am-3pm. Falling Creek Park, 1257 County Farm Rd, Bedford. Contact Kenny Palmer, BCAS Supervisor at 540-586-7682. Kids to Parks Day at Smith Mountain Lake State Park - 1pm-3:30pm. Free. Regular parking fees apply. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Discovery Center, 1235 State Park Rd, Huddleston. 540-297-6066. KidsToParks.org. Local Colors Festival - 11am-6pm. Free. Regular parking fees apply. Elmwood Park, 706 S Jefferson Street, Roanoke. 540-904-2234. Info@LocalColors.org. LocalColors.org. Meditation for Stress Relief – 9am; Mindfulness Matters Discussion – 9:30-10:30am. 30- minute meditation followed by readings and CD recordings exploring topics of mindfulness and meditation with comfortable chairs or floor cushions for all sessions. Come de-stress to start your weekend! Free; all are welcome. The Peace Practice, 3200 Memorial Ave, Lynchburg. 434-609-3437. ThePeacePractice.com. Rally for Road Safety – 10am-3pm. Join us for this fun community event to educate the public on road safety laws and protect users of the road. Bike rodeo, demo on new car tech, prizes, games, safety lessons, car seat checks and fun for all! Sponsored by Roanoke County Parks and Recreation. Free. Firestone parking lot, Tanglewood Mall, Roanoke. RoanokeCountyVA.gov. 10th Annual Barbeque at Sedalia – 11:30am-5pm. Barbeque sampling and brew tasting. Families welcome. $10/person in advance; $15/person at the gate. Children 12 years and under/free. Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Rd, Big Island. 434-299-5080. Director@SedaliaCenter.org. SedaliaCenter.org.
FRIDAY, MAY 22 Bluegrass and BBQ Festival – 3pm-11pm. Continues Saturday, 11am-11pm. Food, arts and crafts, antique tractor show, kite flying, hiking/biking trails, children’s activities, primitive camping, music and much more. Adults/$20
SATURDAY, MAY 23 K9 in the Vines – Jump for the Cure - 9:30am-5pm. Continues Sunday, May 24. Benefits the Virginia Blue Ridge Affiliate of Susan G. Komen. Wine tastings, food vendors and local artisans. White Rock Vineyards and Winery, 2117 Bruno Dr, Goodview. 540-890-3359. TidewaterDockDogs.com. 7th Annual Louisiana Crawfish Boil – 5-9pm. Wharton Memorial’s Seventh Annual Crawfish Boil, hosted by Dr. John Bower and Edna Curry. Live Zydeco music, instruction in Cajun dancing and tons of crawfish, mouthwatering gumbo and delicious red beans and rice. Bower Center for the Arts, 305 N Bridge St, Bedford. 540-586-4235. BowerCenter.org. Night Rider’s Ball – 7pm. Bike Month comes to a close with the Bike Awards ceremony and the Hackensaw Boys at Kirk Avenue Music Hall, 22 Kirk Ave SW, Roanoke. Sponsored by Ride Solutions, 310 Church Ave, Roanoke. 540-342-9393. RideSolutions.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 30 Artisan Fair – 10am-5pm. Festival of local and regional artists, artisans and agri-artisans. Fine arts and crafts for sale, local musicians, special concessions and more. $5 at the gate. Children 12 and under, free. Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Rd, Big Island. 434-2995080. Director@SedaliaCenter.org. SedaliaCenter.org.
savethedate SATURDAY, JUNE 13 First Ever Fun Run in the Sun – 9am. A brand-new family event! Show off your environmental knowhow as you complete this one-mile course. Jump in the Roanoke River with Clean Valley Council when you are finished to learn about water bugs! Free Homestead Creamery Ice Cream. Green Hill Park, 2501 Parkside Dr., Salem. 540-995-0000. BlueRidgeLandConservancy.org/fun-run-in-the-sun.
SATURDAY, JUNE 20 Body Mind Spirit Fest – 10am-6pm. Annual event featuring 31 readers, healers and vendors and 12 lectures. Unity of Roanoke Valley, 3300 Green Ridge Rd, Roanoke. 540-562-2200. UnityOfRoanokeValley.org. Facebook.com/UnityRkeValley.
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block off Rt 419, behind the McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-774-5512. VCCDS.com.
Meditation, Reading and Book Discussion – 6:30pm meditation; 7-8:30pm reading and book discussion. Visit website for current book. Valley Community Church, Divine Science, 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke. One block off Rt 419, behind McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-774-5512. VCCDS.com.
Zen Meditation Group – 6-7pm. Meditation instruction is available. Stone Mountain Zendo, Christ Episcopal Church, 1101 Franklin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-345-5932. TaiNormand@verizon.net.
New River Valley Unity Study Group – 7:30-9pm. Meditation, introspection and discussion. Free. Location varies. Call for details, Bev 540-763-2410 or Betty 540-639-5739.
ongoingevents sunday Unity of Roanoke – 9 and 11am services. All welcome. 3300 Green Ridge Rd NW, Roanoke. 540-562-2200. Office@UnityRoanoke.org. UnityOfRoanokeValley.org. Unity in the Seven Hills – 10-11am. Sunday service. Free. 3522 Campbell Ave, Lynchburg. 434-845-5832. Love@ UnityInTheSevenHills.org. UnityInTheSevenHills.org. Valley Community Church – 11am. Practical solutions based on the teachings of Jesus. Services include varied musical programs; refreshments served afterward. Also streaming live on the Internet. All welcome. Nursery available. 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke. 1 block off Rt 419, behind the McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-774-5512. VCCDS.com. Eckankar Worship Service – 11am-Noon. Second Sunday of every month. During each worship service we explore a spiritual topic and practice simple spiritual exercises to help gain personal experience with the light and sound of God. All welcome. Eckankar Center, 1420 Third St SW, Roanoke (first floor, back far right office). 540-353-5365. SWVA.Eck.Cntr@gmail.com. Eck-Virginia.org. Eckankar.org. Meditation Class – 11am-12:30pm. “How to Understand the Mind.” Everyone welcome. $10/person. Dharmapala Buddhist Center, 315 Albemarle Ave SE, Roanoke. 540-521-7989. Info@MeditationInVirginia. org. MeditationInVirginia.org. Enter the Mysterium – 5-7pm. A weekly spiritual service featuring grounding games, interactive presentations, mudra meditations and energy healing. Valley Community Church, 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke, 1 block off Rt 419, behind the McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-998-9789. VCCDS.com.
monday AA Meetings – 8-9am. Also Wednesdays and Fridays. Valley Community Church, 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke. 1 block off Rt 419, behind the McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-774-5512. VCCDS.com. CoWorking at the CoLab – 9am-5pm. Opportunity to sample a working space at the CoLab. Free. Grandin CoLab, 1327 Grandin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-524-2702. Info@GrandinCoLab.com. GrandinCoLab.com. Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Valley Community Church, 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke. 1 block off Rt 419, behind the McDonald’s at Oak Grove Plaza. 540-774-5512. VCCDS.com. A Course in Miracles – 7-9pm. All welcome. Love offering. Unity of Roanoke Valley, 3300 Green Ridge Rd NW, Roanoke. 540-562-2200 x10. UnityOfRoanokeValley.org.
tuesday Mindfulness Meditation – 5:30-7pm. Sitting and walking meditation, Dharma readings and discussions. Free. Bridge of Compassion Sangha, West End Presbyterian Church, 1200 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke. 540-4274843. BridgeOfCompassion.Wordpress.com. AA Meetings – 6-7pm. Also on Thursdays. Valley Community Church, 5000 Carriage Dr, Roanoke. 1
Community HU Song in Roanoke – 7-7:30pm. First Tuesday of each month. Singing HU has helped people of many different faiths open their hearts more fully to the uplifting presence of God. Eckankar Center, 1420 3rd St SW, Roanoke (first floor, back far right office). 540-353-5365. SWVA.Eck.Cntr@gmail.com. EckVirginia.org. Eckankar.org. Spiritual Experiences Discussion in Roanoke − 7-8pm. Third Tuesday of each month. Open discussion of past-life memory, insightful dreams, déjà vu, inner guidance, soul travel and more. Free spiritual experiences guidebook with audio CD provided. Eckankar Center, 1420 3rd St SW, Roanoke (first floor, back far right office). 540-353-5365. SWVA.Eck.Cntr@gmail. com. Eck-Virginia.org. Eckankar.org. Teen Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Free group created by teens, for teens to help each other work through typical problems. Life in Balance Counseling and Wellness Center, 125-D Akers Farm Rd, Christiansburg. CindyLifeInBalance@gmail.com 540-381-6215. LifeInBalanceCenter.com. Edgar Cayce Search for God Group – 7:30-9:30pm. New members welcome. 413 Dunton Dr, Blacksburg. 540-552-2873. IniBeckman@yahoo.com. My Co-op 101 – Last Tuesday of every month. Learn more about a cooperative business and how to make the most of your ownership. Free to owners; walk-ins welcome. Please call to reserve a space. Roanoke Natural Foods Co-op, 1319 Grandin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-343-5652. RoanokeNaturalFoods.coop.
wednesday Mindfulness Self-Care for Practitioners – 9-10am. Second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Hosted by Alan Forrest, LPC, LMFT. Practice mindfulness for 30 minutes and then enjoy an open discussion for 30 minutes. Free-will offering. Pre-registration is required. Life in Balance Counseling and Wellness Center, 125D Akers Farm Rd, Christiansburg. 540-381-6215. LifeInBalanceCenter.com. Prayer and Meditation – Noon-12:20pm. Add your energy to the peaceful environment of our chapel and be lifted up through the use of positive affirmations during this sacred time of prayer and focused attention. Unity of Roanoke Valley, 3300 Green Ridge Rd, Roanoke (at the Woodhaven intersection). 540-5622200. UnityOfRoanokeValley.org.
thursday Roanoke Community Drum Circle – 7pm. Express yourself through rhythm. Free. Grandin Village, Courtyard of Raleigh Court Baptist Church, corner of Memorial Ave and Grandin Rd, Roanoke. Sponsored by Plowshares, Roanoke. 540-989-0393. PlowshareVa.org.
friday Alzheimer’s Support Group – 3-4pm. Third Friday every month. Members will discuss issues that arise from caring for a loved one with dementia. Light refreshments available. Free. Woodland Studio at the Village Center at Warm Hearth Village, 2603 Warm Hearth Dr, Blacksburg. 540-552-9176. Retire.org. Second Fridays in Centertown Bedford – 5-8pm. Second Friday of every month. Art Galleries and shops will be open. Centertown Bedford, Bedford. 540-5868582. CentertownBedford.com.
saturday Zen Meditation Group – 9-10am. Meditation instruction is available. Stone Mountain Zendo, Christ Episcopal Church, 1101 Franklin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-345-5932. TaiNormand@verizon.net. Free Science-Based Natural Health Information – 10am-5pm. Second Saturday of every month. Drawings for free gift certificates, proven wellness information and great savings opportunities. The Well, 1764 Patriot Ln, Bedford. 540-587-9000, 877-843-9355. TheWellInBedford@gmail.com. WellOfCourse.net. Monthly Silent Peace Vigil – Noon. Third Saturday of every month. All welcome. Downtown Roanoke City Market Building, 32 Market St, Roanoke. Sponsored by Plowshares, Roanoke. 989-0393. PlowshareVa.org.
What’s in your water? KANGEN R WATER Alkaline Antioxidant Restructured The Healthy Water Solution
(X)po Wednesdays – 5-7pm. Gathering of local people talking about their ideas, experiences and interests with the goal of sparking a discussion. Light refreshments and beverages. Grandin CoLab, 1327 Grandin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-524-2702. Info@GrandinCoLab.com. GrandinCoLab.com. Zen Meditation Group – 6-7pm. Meditation instruction is available. Stone Mountain Zendo, Christ Episcopal Church, 1101 Franklin Rd SW, Roanoke. 540-345-5932. TaiNormand@verizon.net.
Call 540-230-7459 or email HealthyWaterForMe@hotmail.com for a free 3-week trial! natural awakenings
May 2015
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communityresourcedirectory To be included in the Community Resource Directory, please email Publisher@NABlueRidge.com or visit NABlueRidge.com for guidelines and to submit entries.
ANIMALS AND PETS – SUPPLIES
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY GRANDIN COLAB
NATURE’S EMPORIUM 3912 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke, VA 24018 540-989-8020 MyNaturesEmporium.com The largest selection of pet gifts, toys, beds and healthy foods and treats for all the special members of the family. Natural and holistic pet food, wild bird and garden supplies.
ANIMALS AND PETS VETERINARIANS CONCORD VETERINARY SERVICES Lori Leonard, BS, DVM, LFHOM 8908 Village Hwy., Concord, VA 24538 434-993-2403 ConcordVetServices.com
540-397-4377 GrandinCoLab.com The Grandin CoLab is a hub for ideation, or generation of new ideas. It is designed to connect innovators and entrepreneurs to resources, education and networking opportunities throughout the Roanoke and Blacksburg regions. The space is available for memberships, business meetings and events. See ad, page 14.
H2O AT HOME Jean Cox, Founding Senior Director 360-271-9525 MyH2OatHome.com/Jean
Discover methods of support and comfort for your beloved animals. For 20 years we have offered homeopathy and other holistic modalities as well as conventional veterinary care. New patients welcome!
Ground-floor business opportunity. Earn “green” while helping others go green with your own home-based business. Be among the first advisors in Virginia and help launch the East Coast. Incentive packages available to experienced leaders. Call for more information.
HOLISTIC VETERINARY CONSULTANTS
CHURCHES
Marjorie M. Lewter, DVM 2401 S. Main St., Blacksburg, VA 24060 540-616-9247 HolisticVeterinaryConsultants.com Professional guidance for clients with many issues including vaccines, nutrition and special health problems. Geriatric care, cancer support and hospice care. Routine medical care for small animals, farm animals and horses. Integrative medicine including acupuncture, botanical medicines, chiropractic and homeopathy. Discover the power of holistic medicine. See ad, page 23.
ECKANKAR, RELIGION OF THE LIGHT AND SOUND OF GOD 1420 3rd Street SW, Roanoke, VA 24016 540-353-5365 swva.eck.cntr@gmail.com eck-virginia.org Are you looking for the personal experience of God, every day? Each of us is connected to God through Divine Spirit (the ECK), which can be heard as Sound and seen as Light. Connect with a spiritual community of people who share your desire for truth. See ad, page 26.
BODYWORK – REIKI ROANOKE METAPHYSICAL CHAPEL
LUELLA CROCKETT
Rev. Reed Brown, Pastor 1488 Peters Creek Rd., NW Roanoke, VA 24017 540-562-5122 RoanokeMeta.org
Usui Reiki Practitioner 229 Union St., Salem, VA 24153 540-397-1355 LuellaCrockett.WordPress.com LuellaCrockett@gmail.com Reiki sessions available at Grandin Gardens every Wednesday and in Salem by appointment. Amethyst BioMat, Bach Flower Remedies and Young Living Essential Oils are combined to create a relaxing healing session as unique as you. Buy 2 Get 1 Free.
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Virginia’s Blue Ridge
We are a metaphysical church with spiritualist roots. We offer classes, workshops and speakers throughout the year, and we teach and practice positive spirituality. Sunday services: childrens’ Sunday school, 9:30 a.m.; adult study, 9:30 a.m.; spiritual healing, 10 a.m.; worship service, 11 a.m. Weekly classes and weddings. All welcome!
NABlueRidge.com
UNITY OF ROANOKE VALLEY Rev. Linda Taylor 3300 Green Ridge Rd., Roanoke, VA 24019 540-562-2200 UnityOfRoanokeValley.org We are a vibrant, loving, spiritual community, demonstrating Christ consciousness, embracing diversity and inspiring personal transformation. Join us in co-creating a world that works for all! See ad, page 23.
VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH, DIVINE SCIENCE 5000 Carriage Dr., Roanoke, VA 24018 540-774-5512 VCCDS.com Teaching practical, spiritual laws based on and found in the example and teachings of Jesus, as well as the Bible and other great wisdom literature. Through Divine Science teachings you can lead a life of joyful inner and outer satisfaction and serenity.
ENERGY – CONSERVATION AND HVAC J & J WEATHERIZATION 434-847-5487 JoLangford@juno.com JJWeatherization.com With 30 years of experience in home energy performance, J&J Weatherization is a full-service company specializing in insulation, home energy conservation and efficiency.
FITNESS – HOOPING BLUSKYE HOOPS 252-489-7451 Info@BluSkyeHoops.com BluSkyeHoops.com At Blu Skye Hoops we are passionate about making life fun through the art of hoop dance. Invoking a fun, creative way for self-expression, combined with classes and custom hoops, we aim to ignite the passion and light that we each hold inside.
FOOD – NATURAL, ORGANIC AND VEGAN ROANOKE NATURAL FOODS CO-OP 1319 Grandin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24015 1 Market Square, Roanoke, VA 24011 540-343-5652 RoanokeNaturalFoods.coop Virginia’s largest, cooperatively owned natural-foods grocery store. Nutritious food choices and earthfriendly products. We support sustainable environmental practices, local organic farmers, local businesses and our community. See ad, page 19.
REV. KANTA BOSNIAK, CHT Life Coach and Wedding Officiant 540-577-8854 Art4Spirit@yahoo.com KantaBosniak.com Coaching and guided imagery for weight loss, life purpose, creativity, new directions, business and career growth, confident interviews, dating. Take positive thinking to a deeper level. Personalized and meaningful wedding ceremonies.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS DENTIST DR. KAREN PERKINS, DDS
THE WELL 1764 Patriot Ln., Bedford, VA 24523 540-587-9000 The.Well.In.Bedford@gmail.com WellOfCourse.net The destination for natural health when looking for sciencebased information, superior products, herbal tinctures, supplements, natural foods, bulk foods, spices and teas. The Well has all of this and more. Your benefit is our business. See ad, page 9.
FOOD RESTAURANTS LOCAL ROOTS FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24015 540-206-2610 LocalRootsRestaurant.com Roanoke’s first true farm-totable restaurant. Open Tuesday through Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday for dinner, Sunday for brunch and familystyle supper. Full bar and wood-fire oven. Available for private parties, corporate events, celebrations and catering. See ad, page 14.
FUNERAL AND BURIAL SERVICES - GREEN FOREST REST AT MOUNTAIN VIEW 5970 Grassy Hill Rd., Boones Mill, VA 24065 540-334-5398 Sensor@EvergreenMemorialTrust.com EvergreenMemorialTrust.com Forest Rest is a natural cemetery where interments are made without burial vaults or common embalming chemicals. Wood tablets or native stones mark the graves. See ad, page 10.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING
46 Shelor Dr., Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-237-6328 MercuryFreeDDS.com Providing the highest quality of dental care in a mercury-free environment, using safe and biocompatible dental materials. We practice safe removal of old mercury/silver (amalgam) fillings with the safe mercury/silver filling removal protocol outlined by the International Academy of Oral Medicine, IAOMT. See ad, page 11.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS SPAS AND SALONS REVIVE ORGANIC SALON 2305-A Colonial Ave., Roanoke, VA 24015 540-816-0986 Organic salon offering ladies and men’s haircuts, demineralizing treatments, organic base coloring, highlights, color correction and hair loss solutions. Revive’s mission is to treat others with respect and dignity while nurturing them in an organic environment.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS – WELLNESS CENTERS
LIFE IS A BALANCING ACT
Counteract Slow Sales Advertise in Natural Awakenings’
Balanced Man June Issue
LIFE IN BALANCE COUNSELING AND WELLNESS CENTER 125 Akers Farm Rd., Ste. D, Christiansburg, VA 24073 540-381-6215 LifeInBalanceCenter.com The Life In Balance team of therapists offers psychotherapy for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families, as well as massage therapy, Reiki, yoga classes, relaxation and meditation classes and health and wellness workshops. See ad, page 7.
To advertise or participate in our next issue, call
540-384-1815 natural awakenings
May 2015
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HOME – CLEANING SUPPLIES
RECYCLING BOOKBAG SANTA 540-342-2083 BookbagSanta@verizon.net BookBagSanta.com
H2O AT HOME Jean Cox, Founding Senior Director 360-271-9525 MyH2OatHome.com/Jean Now you can care for your home with our innovative smart tools and just water or certified natural and organic products. Your home will be sparkling with no harsh chemical residues or fumes!
OUTDOOR RECREATION AND ECOTOURISM VIRGINIA GREEN 804-986-9119 VirginiaGreenTravel.org Virginia Green is Virginia’s program to encourage green practices throughout the state’s tourism industry. Member destinations and events include recycling, waste reduction, energy and water conservation and consumer education. The program is a partnership between Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality and Virginia Tourism. See ad, page 7.
Roanoke-based 501c3 charity keeps two TONS of used school supplies out of the landfill every year. Since 1990 the group has traveled each summer to Belize to deliver supplies to three schools. Email, call or visit the website for more information about making donations.
CLEAN VALLEY COUNCIL Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave., Ste. 319, Roanoke, VA 24016 540-345-5523 CleanValley.org A nonprofit organization serving the Roanoke Valley for more than 30 years. Providing educational programming and citizen participation events to spread the word about litter prevention, recycling, waste-stream reduction, storm-water pollution prevention and protecting our natural resources. The go-to resource for local recycling information.
RETAIL - NONPROFIT
PARENTING
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF THE VALLEYS
PARENTING-SOS Cathy Songer 540-239-0287 SongerCat@Parenting-SOS.com Parenting-SOS.com
2502 Melrose Ave., Ste. A, Roanoke, VA 24017 540-581-0620 GoodwillValleys.com
Nearly all of us face parenting challenges at some point in our lives. There is no need to let it create ongoing stress. Our mission is to help you get over those hurdles by teaching you positive and effective skills that will bring out the best in you and your family. Complimentary speaking engagements offered.
TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES RIDE SOLUTIONS 866-424-3334 Info@RideSolutions.org RideSolutions.org Ride Solutions connects you to your transportation options with free regional carpool matching, bike commute support, transit assistance and employer services, all for free.
WATER CONSERVATION AND FILTRATION - ALKALINE WATER HEALTHY WATER FOR ME 540-230-7459 or 540-789-7808 HealthyWaterForMe@hotmail.com HealthyWaterForMe.com Kangen Water® is a great way to increase hydration, balance body pH, obtain optimal health, neutralize free radicals, reduce pain and more. Change Your Water… Change Your Life ™. Call to begin a free three-week alkaline, antioxidant water challenge today. See ad, page 27.
Motherhood: All love begins and ends there. ~Robert Browning
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