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ENLIGHTENED RELATIONSHIPS
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
Creating Loving Relationships that Thrive
HEALING THE HEART
Ways to Gentle the Grieving Process
WHAT’S IN YOUR WAY?
Obstacles Point Toward Wholeness and Healing FEBRUARY 2015 | Boston | NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com
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COMING SPRING 2015 A Mind-Body Event Like No Other
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February 2015
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letterfrompublisher
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hanks to the eternal seek-and-find-to-grow-a-little journey we all find ourselves on throughout life, I joy in stumbling onto special small gems I can embrace and use both now and in the future. A recent example is an article written by Emily Esfahani Smith, “Masters of Love,” which remarks how lasting relationships come down to the consistent practice by both parties of two traits—kindness and generosity. (Find it by searching TheAtlantic.com.) With practice, we soon learn that a little kindness can go a long way with untold resonance in any arena of life. With the big-hearted tradition of Valentine’s Day headlining February, we are shining light on authentically individual ways to live love with great kindness in our Enlightened Relationships issue. Judith Fertig’s feature article, “Happily Coupled: Creating Loving Relationships that Work,” celebrates the rewards of our consciously fostering such deep connections based on shared values. It seems so simple, so why do a majority of marriages continue to fail? Absent personal expertise with wedded bliss, I found myself thinking about the effects a little kindness and generosity can have on improving any relationship, as well as our overall quality of life. Just this week a friend shared another gem, this one from a book about the 14th Dalai Lama in which he’s quoted as saying, “Love is the center of human life. Without love we could not survive. Human beings are social creatures, and a concern for each other is the very basis of our life together.” An excerpt from a wedding I attended sums up the quest well in my book: A good marriage must be created. In marriage the little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say “I love you.” It is never going to sleep angry. It is standing together and facing the world. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is not only marrying the right partner—it is being the right partner. Warm wishes always for happily thriving relationships with your tribe. Peace,
Maisie Raftery, Publisher
contact us Publisher Maisie Raftery Managing Editor Nancy Somera Proofreader - Randy Kambic Marketing Representatives Cheryl Sullivan - 781-799-6610 CherylA@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com Lea Tatelman - 617-240-3465 Lea@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com Contributors Kathleen Barnes • Judith Fertig Juliana Hale • Debra Melani Jolene Ross • Deborah Shouse Nancy Somera • Lane Vail Design & Production Stephen Blancett • Zina Cochran Suzzanne Siegel James Vaclavik
P.O. Box 1149 Brookline, MA 02446 Phone: 617-906-0232 Fax: 877-907-1406 NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com Maisie@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com © 2014 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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newsbriefs healthbriefs globalbriefs ecotip travelspotlight fitbody healingways consciouseating inspiration naturalpet calendarofevents community resourceguide
Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
18 DESTINATION BLISS Raffa Yoga Active Relaxation Center by Nancy Somera
20 HAPPILY COUPLED Creating Loving Relationships that Thrive by Judith Fertig
24 FITNESS FINDS
18
Locate the Best Workout Space for You by Debra Melani
26 GENTLING GRIEF
Remedies to Heal the Heart by Kathleen Barnes
advertising & submissions
27 HAPPY MEALS
Eating Healthy Foods Fights Off Depression by Lane Vail
HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 617-906-0232 or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@ NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. 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 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
29 USING
NEUROTHERAPY TO IMPROVE BRAIN FUNCTION
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by Jolene Ross
31 WHAT’S IN
YOUR WAY?
Obstacles Point the Path to Wholeness and Healing by Deborah Shouse
32 WHEN YOUR
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PET PASSES
A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing by Julianne Hale
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February 2015
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newsbriefs Seminar on Active Isolated Stretching for the Lower Body
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he AIS Institute, in Watertown, will host an Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) therapy seminar on March 7 and 8. The training is for physical therapists, personal trainers, chiropractors, body workers and other health professionals that want to learn quick, relieving release techniques and assessments. Owner and practitioner Stefan Matte says that AIS teaches new approaches to self-care that are practical and safe for people of any age or condition. “This event will highlight the AIS lower body stretching and mobility technique,” he says. “When applied, it helps clients to recover more quickly from orthopedic issues. In addition to precisely targeted assisted stretches, attendees will learn selfstretching protocols that keep us healthy and empower clients.” Location: 103 Morse St., Watertown. For more information and to register, call 617-393-1829 or visit TheAISInstitute.com. See ad, page 7 and Resource Guide, page 39.
Krishna Das Comes to Boston for Kirtan and Workshop
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ewton Community Education will be presenting bestselling devotionKrishna Das al chant artist Krishna Das at 7:30 p.m., February 28, at the Arlington Street Church, in Boston. The event is part of the Power of a Loving Heart weekend intensive, which includes a workshop on March 1 with spiritual teachers Sharon Salzberg and Lama Surya Das. “The weekend intensive will allow attendees to come together to discover and celebrate the power of the heart by cultivating our natural capacity for faith, compassion and love,” says Newton Community Education’s Ursula Steele. “Krishna Das has taken call-and-response chanting out of yoga centers and into concert halls, becoming a worldwide icon and best-selling Western chant artist.” Layering traditional kirtan, or devotional chanting, with instantly accessible melodies and modern instrumentation, Das has been called yoga’s “rock star”. During the Sunday 1 p.m. workshop at Newton South High School, he will share stories about his spiritual path, while Salzberg will discuss and guide practices of loving-kindness meditation, and Lama Surya Das will offer insights into the wisdom teachings of Dzogchen. Cost: Kirtan tickets are $35 in advance at KrishnaDas.com/$40 cash or check at the door. Workshop is $75 in advance/$85 at the door. Location: Arlington Street Church, 351 Boylston St., Boston. For more information and to register for the workshop, call 617-559-6999 or visit NewtonCommunityEd.org.
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newsbriefs Laughter Yoga Opportunities
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et’s Laugh Today holds regular free monthly laughter yoga sessions in Franklin, every fourth Monday; Walpole, every second Saturday; and Sharon, every third Monday, and holds other special laughter events in various locations. Participants may either sit or stand to enjoy the exercise of laughter and clapping combined with gentle breathing that brings more oxygen to the body’s cells. This oxygen boost gives enhanced vitality, energy and a feeling of real well-being. Any age and any level of physical ability can participate in this uplifting experience. Children are welcome. No yoga poses are done. Cost: Free. For more information and locations, call Linda and Bill at 508-6602223, email BillAndLinda@LetsLaughToday.com or visit LetsLaughToday.com.
Certification Course for Wilderness First Responders
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he Commonwealth Center for Holistic Herbalism will be presenting a 10-day certification course for wilderness first responders from July 27 through August 5, at the Commonwealth Center’s Brookline location, as well as many wild areas around Boston. The course will be led by herbSam Coffman alist Sam Coffman from Texas, who is making his first appearance in New England. “While this course offers the standard certification for wilderness first responders, it goes above and beyond because Sam includes herbalism in the program,” says Commonwealth Center Director Katja Swift, adding that it will prepare students for all kinds of emergency situations. “Selfsufficiency is super important, whether it’s a climate change weather disaster or an accident on mass transit,” she says. “Being able to keep your head in an emergency situation and provide confident and competent first aid is an important skill.”
Hydrogen... Oxygen... Gold... Silver... Carbon... Mercury... and more...
WHICH ELEMENT HAS A MESSAGE FOR YOU? Scientists tell us that the 118 Atomic Elements are the “Building Blocks” of the universe. Each Element also has a spiritual meaning and brings an Atomic Message that can help us with Personal Growth, Relationships, Healing or Spiritual Guidance. You can communicate with the Elements – Learn how their spiritual meanings can guide, inspire and transform you! For information and activities, visit the Atomic Messages Foundation www.ElementMessages.com • (781) 648-0048
Location: 25 Saint Mary’s Ct., Brookline. For more information, call 617-750-5274 or visit CommonwealthHerbs.com/samcoffman-wilderness-herbal-first-respondercertification-course. See ad, page 38 and Resource Guide, page 42. natural awakenings
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newsbriefs
Free Kundalini Yoga with Gong Relaxation to Relieve Winter Blues
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arian Reynolds, a Kundalini yoga and meditation teacher, will be offering a free introduction class featuring a gong relaxation from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., February 11, at the Newton Highlands Congregational Church. “The gong is a powerful healing instrument and a great antidote to any winter blues,” says Reynolds. She says the class will help students to balance their minds and nervous and glandular systems. “The focus will be on the kidneys and adrenals, the guardians of health, to meet the double challenges of deep winter and modern life,” she says. “The breathwork and yoga set is preparation for bathing in the healing vibrations of the gong. Afterwards, students will feel energized and experience radiance and abundance from within.” Students are advised to bring a bottle of water, yoga mat and blanket, and wear comfortable clothing. Refreshments will be served. Location: 54 Lincoln St., Newton Highlands. For more information, call 617733-2311. See Resource Guide, page 43.
To win without risk is to triumph without glory. ~Pierre Corneille
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newsbriefs An Educational Evening on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
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edical Aesthetics of New England will be hosting an educational evening on the benefits of pellet therapy and optimal wellness using bioidentical and Suzanne Somers all-natural estrogen and testosterone from 6 to 8:30 p.m., February 24, at The Red Raven, in Acton. Suzanne Somers, who has been dubbed a healthy pioneer by The Wall Street Journal and “crazy smart” by Dr. Mehmet Oz, will be a guest presenter via Skype, sharing how she overcame her symptoms after battling cancer, including her hormonal imbalance. Attendees will learn how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can protect bones, the brain, breasts, heart, joints and relationships. Somers maintains, “Life is about to change for the better. Feel great again and be vibrant, healthy, thin and sexy.” Location: 3 Nagog Park, Acton. To reserve a seat, call 978263-1406 or visit MedicalAestheticsNE.com. See ad, page 17.
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newsbriefs Mind Body Therapeutic Coaching Practice Relocates to Boston
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obin Okun, LICSW, founder of Mindful Movement of Ann Arbor, Michigan, has relocated and is accepting new clients in Boston. She has a master’s degree from the University of Michigan’s Graduate School of Social Work with more than 20 years experience. Okun embodies a compassionate, positive and practical approach to healing, and is offering free consultations. She meets Robin Okun with clients by phone, via Skype or in her office. Mindfulness is an empirically validated tool in treating depression, anxiety and anger. Okun focuses on the body as a way to develop mindfulness. Her clients increase their capacity and improve their skills for observing and living more comfortably with difficult thoughts, feelings and body sensations. Using mindfulness, her clients identify and express authentic feelings to meet personal needs and desires. The result is more effective communication, conflict resolution and greater ease in daily living. To schedule a free consultation, call 734-395-2624 or email RobinOkun@gmail.com.
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newsbriefs
Natural Awakenings’ Family of Franchises Keeps Growing
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atural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) recently welcomed a group of new publishers that completed a December training program at the corporate headquarters in Naples. The NAPC training staff spent several days with the entrepreneurs launching new Natural Awakenings magazines in Buffalo and Salt Lake City, plus existing markets in Houston and New Orleans. Company CEO Sharon Bruckman launched the first edition of Natural Awakenings in 1994 and began franchising it in 1999. The company currently publishes 95 Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the United States and in Puerto Rico, with a collective readership exceeding 3.5 million. “Interest in naturally healthy living that’s good for people and the planet is now influencing mainstream America, thanks in part to our active and growing readership,” says Bruckman. “Natural Awakenings’ dedicated family of publishers, supported by loyal advertisers, connects readers with a wealth of national and local resources mapping out alternate routes to a healthier, happier, longer life.” For a list of locations where Natural Awakenings is publishing or to learn more about franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit Natural AwakeningsMag.com. natural awakenings
February 2015
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newsbriefs Climate Week in Brookline and Opportunities to Sign Up for Clean Energy
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he Brookline chapter of Mothers Out Front is teaming up with Climate Action Brookline at the town’s fifth annual Climate Week. The event begins with a kickoff party at the Brookline Teen Center from 5 to 7 p.m., February 8, and is part of the Green Up campaign taking place from February to June. Together with the climate activists, the mothers’ group has taken on climate change by signing up 1,000 households and businesses for clean electricity. “As the Earth’s climate spirals out of control, one can feel overwhelmed by the gravity and extent of the problem and the lack of actions available on an individual level,” says co-coordinator Daria Mark. “The Green Up campaign to sign up households and businesses offers a quick and effective way to reduce your carbon footprint by 20 to 30 percent.” Mark says that all electricity payers in Massachusetts can sign up with the nonprofit green power supplier Mass Energy to change power generation in the state to more renewable sources. “It’s a way to feel good about the electricity powering your home,” she says, “and the premium for clean electricity is tax deductible.” Cost: Free. Location: Brookline Teen Center, 40 Aspinwall St., Brookline. To learn more or RSVP to party, call 800287-3950, ext. 5 or visit MothersOut Front.org/green_up_your_house_ campaign_kickoff_2. To learn more about making the switch to clean electricity, visit MassEnergy.org.
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newsbriefs Music Salon in Waltham Invites Creative People to Gather
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inda Marks, founder of The Music Salon, in Waltham, is providing a place for musicians and other creative artists to perform and share their work in a warm, welcoming home setting. Marks, a singer and songwriter, says that she created the salon after seeing a reduction in the number of live local music venues. “Almost all the piano bars in Boston have been replaced by venues with flatscreen televisions,” says Marks. “We’re offering a ‘bottom up’ approach to providing live music in the intimate setting of someone’s living room. It may be a much needed antidote for musicians and lovers of music.” Singer and vocal coach Sandi Hammond will present Optimally Enhancing Your Vocal Performance at The Music Salon on February 7. On February 22, father-son duo Jack and Jesse Gauthier will sing close harmonies, with visual art on display by Rowan Wielblad. “Pianomastress” Bonnie MacLeod will lead an open mic for singers on March 8. There is no fee to attend these events, but donations are collected to provide honoraria for performers and cover the cost of serving refreshments. For location and more information, call 617-913-0683 or visit LindaMarksMusic.com.
Reconnect with Dreams and Desires, Creative and Otherwise
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ertified Positive Psychology Coach Kim Childs will be presenting an Introduction to The Artist’s Way from 2:30 to 4 p.m., February 7, at The Arlington Center, in Arlington. The workshop, which doesn’t require any artistic experience to attend, features experiential exercises and discussion based on the book The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, by Julia Cameron. Childs says that her workshops are for anyone that wants to expand or explore their creativity, eliminate unproductive habits and make time for what they truly love. “The Artist’s Way affirms the creative spark in everyone, whether we long to paint, write, cook, sing, take photographs or start a small business,” says Childs. “People often think that they need to identify as artists to do this work, but it’s really about reclaiming passions, overcoming self-sabotage and living more fully expressed. Cost: $18. Location: The Arlington Center, 369 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington. To register, call 781-316-0282 or visit ArlingtonCenter.org. To contact Kim Childs, call 617-6403813, email Kim@KimChilds.com or visit KimChilds.com. See Resource Guide, page 40.
Dr. Iveta Iontcheva-Barehmi DMD, MS, D.Sc. Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi is an accomplished dentist and specialist in Periodontics and Implants. She has a firm belief that our bodies are very intelligent. All the body organs and systems are interconnected and related to each other (the teeth and the mouth are part of and related to the whole body). Our bodies are perfect self-sustainable systems, capable of self-healing and self-regeneration. Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi has expertise in the areas of Biological, Physiological Dentistry and Integrative Periodontal Medicine and Implants, Lasers and Energy Medicine. Miracle Bite Tabs™ (MBT) Miracle Bite Tabs™ (MBT) and and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) are used to treat Dental Distress Syndrome. Your teeth and jaws are an extension of your brain and spinal cord. Any imbalances caused by improper alignment of the jaw can play a major role in pain syndromes and chronic diseases. Head and Neck Pain Management Scenar, a non-invasive treatment device, is the only real time biofeedback device that will find what is wrong with your body and stimulate self-healing through electro stimulation and “conversation” with the control systems of the body (CNS Integrative Periodontal Medicine-Periodontal Spa The majority of the dental and periodontal procedures in Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi’s office are laser assisted. She has Biolase MD, the most versatile laser, which can be utilized to work with the gums and the teeth, implants and root canals. The discomfort is minimal to none and the healing is speededup. The procedures are often combined with a low level laser and Scenar, which give additional boost to the healing and removing discomfort.
Vitamin C electrophoreses is a unique method used in Europe to prevent recession, boost collagen synthesis, support and increase the blood circulation leading to firming the gingiva and discontinuing the signs of aging and bleeding. It is part of the integrative protocol for treatment and prophylaxes of periodontitis. Zirconia Solution to Titanium Implant If you are allergic or sensitive to other metals Bio-ceramic (zirconia) implants might be an option for you. Dr. IontchevaBarehmi is certified to place zirconia implants, you don’t need to travel to Europe anymore. Ozone Treatment Ozone is a powerful oxidizer and kills effectively bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Oxygen ozone therapy can be applied as an adjunctive therapy in treatment of periodontitis (periodontal disease), in arresting and reversing carious lesions in initial stage, reversal of initial pulp inflammation in deep carious lesions, treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity. The methods applied are efficacious with no toxicity or side effects. Perio-Protect Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi is certified to use the Perio-protect methodone of the best prophylactic methods for periodontal disease, and subsequently for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some other conditions. Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry Your amalgam fillings contain not only poisonous mercury but they cause cracks in your tooth structure and can lead to tooth loss. Defective amalgam fillings are removed safely following the IAOMT protocol, Including spa treatments for detoxification and the newest form of noninjectable Vitamin C with comparable absorption. Anxiety and dental phobias are rarely experienced in the Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi’ s practice. Meditation, breathing techniques, homeopathy, EFT technique, hypnotherapy are all used, so you can be comfortable and love coming to your dentist. To schedule your comprehensive exam and share the excitement of a healthy smile call:
617-868-1516
Vitamin C gum rejuvenation 1842 Beacon St. Suite 305, Just like skin, gums can be Brookline MA rejuvenated for health and youth. www.bostondentalwellness.com
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February 2015
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healthbriefs
A New View of Cancer
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erman New Medicine (GNM), the scientific discoveries of Dr. Ryke Geerd Hamer, is a natural science based on five universal biological principles that views disease through the eyes of Mother Nature. GNM represents a change in the understanding of what is commonly called disease. It reveals that disease is not caused by malfunctions but rather is initiated by a biological conflict or shock that assists an individual during times of unexpected emotional distress. According to Dr. Neal Robert Smookler, New England’s first GNM consultant and therapist, whenever a living organism experiences an unexpected, highly acute trauma, nature intercedes to take the “weight” of the distress off of the psyche and shift it to the body (organ). The “weight” is Neal Robert translated into a compensatory special biological program Smookler that manifests on the cellular level (an adaptation response) that the body is able to run or process over time. This is nature’s way of satisfying Abraham Maslow’s need for self-preservation as the translation from the consciousness to the body (organ) buys time for the possibility of a conflict resolution. Validated by brain scans, GNM scientifically demonstrates the connection between the psyche, brain and organ. A GNM consultation generally requires one to several sessions with results often coming in the first session. Only the more complex scenarios require additional dialogue. Neal Robert Smookler, DC, resides in Hopkinton where he consults in-person and via phone both for professional and lay persons locally as well as nationally. He began his German New Medicine studies in 2009 and pioneered the introduction of Developmental Alphabiotics in New England. For the last quarter-century, Smookler has maintained three full-time wellness care practices in Boston, Wellesley and Hopkinton. GNMNewEngland.com. See ad, page 35.
Marriage is Good for the Heart
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esearch from the New York University School of Medicine found that married people have significantly less cardiovascular disease (CVD) than those that are divorced, widowed or otherwise single. The study used data on the rates of CVD from the health surveys of more than 3.5 million men and women collected at 20,000 U.S. medical centers. Married people under 50 had 12 percent lower incidence of heart disease than single people. Married couples between 51 and 60 years old had a 7 percent lower risk, while those over 60 had a 4 percent lower risk. The results were presented at the 2014 scientific sessions of the American College of Cardiology. Researcher and cardiologist Jeffrey Berger recommends that doctors show increased diligence for single patients: “If one of my patients is recently widowed or divorced, I’m increasingly vigilant about examining them for signs of any type of cardiovascular disease and depression,” he says.
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Mind-Body Therapies Stimulate the Immune System
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large statistical analysis of multiple studies on body-mind therapies such as meditation, tai chi, qigong and yoga found that the practices effectively reduce inflammation and show promise in modulating the immune system. Scientists at the Tufts University School of Medicine analyzed the results of 34 controlled scientific studies that collectively assessed 2,219 people. Each study involved the use of at least one mind-body practice for between seven and 16 weeks and measured immune system health using multiple biological markers. Eighteen of the studies specifically examined inflammation factors, while seven evaluated antiviral-related immunity. Nine of the studies measured C-reactive protein (CRP) levels—an indicator of cardiovascular-related inflammation. The analysis revealed that mindbody therapies reduced CRP levels in subjects with high risk factors for cancer, diabetes, depression and cardiovascular disease. The scientists added that some of the research suggested that mind-body therapy may also increase immunity against viral infections.
Obstacles are what you see when you take your eye off the goal. ~Chris Burke
healthbriefs
A Healthy Approach to Intestinal Maintenance
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mall intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which too many and the wrong kinds of bacteria inhabit the small intestine, or small bowel, usually due to another condition that interferes with normal intestinal activity. Bacteria are allowed to stay overlong and multiply or even spread backward from the colon into the small intestine. The results may include constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue and even anemia, because iron and vitamin B12 are absorbed here. Allopathic medicine usually kills off the overgrowth with antibiotics that tend to stay in the intestinal tract. The small intestine is then reseeded with healthy probiotics to establish the proper balance of gut bacteria essential to the absorption of nutrients and the production of some natural vitamins. Steven Frank, founder of Nature’s Rite, advises that as a more natural alternative, some naturopathic practitioners are using an enhanced aqueous silver colloid to kill off the overgrowth before reseeding. According to the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, after using either technique, it helps to ingest herbs such as plantain, licorice, marshmallow and slippery elm bark, as well as aloe, to heal the damage. For more information, call 888-4654404 or visit NaturesRiteRemedies.com. See ad, page 10.
Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love. ~Mother Teresa natural awakenings
February 2015
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Forward Leap
Batteries that Last 1,000 Years A group of Swedish researchers has discovered an unconventional way to give new life to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from iPhones to electric cars, using pine resin and alfalfa seeds. The researchers plan to take up to two years to improve the chemistry of the product, and claim that the recycled batteries could last up to 1,000 years, according to researcher David Brandell. It has been estimated that demand for the batteries from automobile manufacturers could explode up to 400 percent in the next six years. The researchers see the technology as a global antidote to current methods for recycling manufactured Li-ion batteries that are energy-intensive and require toxic materials to manufacture. Source: EnvironmentGuru.com
Greenwashing Conundrum Biodegradable Plastic Bags Are a Hoax
In 2010, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed recommendations for environmental marketing claims. The agency has sent warning letters to 15 marketers informing them that their claims may be deceptive, and requested more scientific evidence that plastic bags labeled as biodegradable, or “oxodegradable”, implying the bag will break down in time when exposed to oxygen, were true to the claim. Because many bags are dumped in the low-oxygen environment of a landfill, the FTC considers those advertised benefits as dubious. Joseph Greene, a professor at California State University, Chico, points out that oxodegradable should be amended to “oxofragmentable” to be more accurate, because the plastics just break into smaller and smaller pieces. Chemically, they don’t break down into anything less hazardous. In fact, if these plastic bags disintegrate in the ocean, the fragments will be about the right size for sea creatures to mistake them for plankton. Source: Rabble.ca
Dignity First
Most End-of-Life Care in U.S. Neglects Patient Needs The U.S. healthcare system is not properly designed to meet the needs of patients nearing the end of life and those of their families, and major changes to the system are necessary, according to a new report from the Institute of Medicine, Dying in America: Improving Quality and Honoring Individual Preferences Near the End of Life. A 21-member committee has called for more advanced end-of-life care planning by individuals, improved training and credentialing for clinicians, and for governments and private sectors to provide incentives to patients and clinicians to discuss issues, values, preferences and appropriate services and care. Dr. Philip Pizzo, co-chair of the committee, states, “Patients can and should take control of the quality of their life through their entire lifetime, choosing how they live and how they die, and doctors should help initiate discussions with their patients about such decisions.” Susan Heckerman, former dean of medicine at Stanford University, says, “It’s important that healthcare options available to individuals facing the end of life help relieve pain and discomfort, maximize the individual’s ability to function, alleviate depression and anxiety, and ease the burdens of loved ones in a manner consistent with individual preferences and choices.” The report is available at Tinyurl.com/ DyingInAmerica.
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ecotip Eco-Fireplace Tips
Best Ways to Enjoy Greener Indoor and Outdoor Fires Our inclination to position ourselves near fire is a year-round lure nationwide. Yet, the traditional ingredient in both indoor fireplaces in the north and outdoor fire pits in the south should give shivers to the eco-minded. In addition to causing considerable air pollution, wood smoke contains carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particulates that can aggravate asthma, allergies and other health conditions. Eco-friendly firelogs—many made of recycled biomass products like compressed wood sawdust, ground nutshells and other ingredients—provide low-emission and petroleum-free alternatives to cordwood. According to GreenAmerica.org, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends manufactured logs over wood to cut air pollutants. Major manufacturers noted by ApartmentTherapy. com include Java, which uses coffee grounds; Energy Log briquettes made
from recycled mill waste; and TerraCycle, ShredMaster Ltd. and CleanFlame, all of which use recycled and repurposed cardboard. In addition to producing greater heat, some of these logs even produce a natural crackling sound without throwing sparks. Inserts—basically a stove that fits into existing fireplaces—provide a genuine fireside feeling, but with green benefits. An EPA-certified stove or insert is built to burn cleaner and more efficiently, dramatically reducing fine particle emissions and pollution over older models. However, while a propane gas stove insert burns even cleaner and is
easier to operate, it uses nonrenewable fuel. Consider wood pellet models that burn ultra-compressed wood and biomass of olive, corn and cherry pits. Outdoor steel fire pits that can burn firelogs have grown popular in warmer regions, and equipment manufacturers have responded. Tripods suspend swivel and free-standing grills over the pit for direct cooking or to hold cast iron kettles. Special outdoor tables also afford a gathering spot around friendly flames. Avoid gas and electric models as eco-no-nos. If real wood is a must, be selective. Firewood that looks a little rough is more likely to come from over-mature trees of the kind that can be removed without affecting the health of its forest (WoodHeat.org). Product packages of Pioneer Processors firewood attest that it “never uses endangered wood species and always purchases from wellmanaged forests.”
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February 2015
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travelspotlight
DESTINATION BLISS: Raffa Yoga Active Relaxation Center by Nancy Somera
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was the lucky recipient on our staff this month to receive an invitation to experience Urban Sweat, at the Raffa Yoga Active Relaxation Center, in Warwick, Rhode Island. So on the coldest day of the year thus far, I made my way to the Ocean State, and while walking toward their entrance, passed over “Namaste” etched in the pavement, a reminder to leave the frosty air and any unwanted worries or concerns behind as I went through the door. After being greeted by the friendly front reception and taking a short moment to fill out some required paperwork, I was escorted to the locker room to secure my personal belonging in a locker and change into the Urban Sweat uniform: a comfortably oversized T-shirt and gym shorts. Donned in my uniform, I entered Urban Sweat, a blissful area consisting of multiple treatment and therapeutic rooms. Upon entering, a hydration station of lemon and cucumber water was a reminder to drink up before heading into the Yellow Turmeric Room where I began the process of unwinding by
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lying on a mat in the heated room. Listening to calming music, I immediately felt all tension melt away and my brain ignoring the ever-present running to-do lists, while my body received the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal and anticancer properties of the room’s active ingredient, curcumin. After about 20 minutes, a therapist quietly entered the sauna to let me know that my hot stone massage appointment was about to begin. Settling onto the massage table, heated stones were placed between my toes and then my feet were wrapped in warm towels, signaling my brain and central nervous system to calm. Working up my body from there, the therapist glided various-sized hot oiled stones across my muscles, easing tension throughout my body. About midway, I entered a semistate of sleep; just as I would crossover into dreamland, the hot stones would pull me back to the room. I could have lied there all day, enjoying what at times felt like deliciously hot water caressing my limbs. Ninety minutes later, I somewhat
slept walked out of the treatment room and back into the center relaxation room to lie down on a heated water bed. After my senses recovered, I moved to an anti-gravity chair to sip on some fresh green juice and snack on some raw food made in the on-premise kitchen. Refueled and rehydrated, I went next to the Eucalyptus Steam Room to moisten my winter-dried nasal passages and skin. A cold rain shower is available in the adjacent Urban Hamman for those that opt for alternating hot/cold therapy. I chose to simply relax in the candlelit Hamman while my body tempature and pores returned to normal. The Black Charcoal Sauna came next. The hot sauna dried my uniform which had become damp from the wet steam. I learned that as the body sweats in this room, the activated charcoal helps absorb any heavy metals, poisons and other chemicals that find their way into our bodies through the products we use, food we eat and water we drink. I was happy to lie there, letting my senses
enjoy the difference between the wet and dry heat while the charcoal did its detoxification magic. By now I’m sure I looked some what dazed as I wandered, rather than walked, into the Himalayan Salt Grotto, a room filled with 18,000 pounds of Himalayan rock salt imported from Pakistan. Lying directly on the salt, I felt a complete sense of balance between body and mind, and knew that I had achieved what owner Christine Raffa had designed for her clients when she brought Urban Sweat to the New England community years ago. Afraid I wouldn’t be able to safely drive home if I stayed any longer, I ended my afternoon without visiting the Oceanic Relaxation Room which is filled with Dead Sea Salt, or the Infrared Sauna. But, I told myself, I needed something new to experience upon my return. Next time I’m planning a full day so I can enjoy all the studio has to offer, including yoga. Perhaps I’ll even make a weekend of it. Getting there: Raffa Yoga Active Relaxation Center, 19 Sharpe Dr., Cranston, Rhode Island. Drive or take MBTA or Amtrak to Providence or T.F. Green Airport. Nearby lodging: NYLO (3 minutes or 1.37 miles from the studio), 400 Knight St., Warwick. 401-734-4460. Shuttle service to studio provided; Hotel Providence, (14 minutes from studio or 8.12 miles), 139 Mathewson St., Providence. 401-732-6667. For more information, call 401-4633335 or visit RaffaYoga.com. See ad, page 22.
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Happily Coupled Creating Loving Relationships that Thrive by Judith Fertig
“To be fully seen by somebody… and be loved anyhow— this is a human offering that can border on miraculous.” ~ Elizabeth Gilbert
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t the conclusion of her bestselling memoir, Eat Pray Love, author Elizabeth Gilbert had fallen in love with Jose Nunes (called Felipe in the book), a Brazilian living in Indonesia. The divorced Gilbert, reluctant to have her heart broken again, had vowed never to remarry… yet ultimately changed her mind when U.S. immigration law presented her with multiple choices: marry so they could live together in this country, stay single and live as ex-pat partners or say goodbye to Nunes. Gilbert chose a marital partnership that suits the shared life they want: honest and, after years of travel, settled in one place. She says, “For the first time in my life, living in a small town with a lovely husband in an old house with 20
a big garden and several pets, I feel absolutely rooted in a way I have never experienced before and never would have imagined even desiring. But it is what we want—at least for now—and we’re relishing that stability.” Gilbert records the process of going from two global wanderers falling in love to a married couple sharing domestic chores in her follow-up memoir, Committed: A Love Story.
Love Science
The spark that ignites such a partnership is love, which is “primarily about connection,” says Barbara Fredrickson, Ph.D., a positivity expert and author of Love 2.0: How Our Supreme Emotion Affects Everything We Feel, Think, Do, and Become. “It’s vital to our health
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and happiness, affecting our brains and bodies at the cellular level. “We were born to love,” emphasizes Fredrickson, who also serves as a psychology professor and director of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Laboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “The evidence comes from research that shows how our brain and nervous system are designed to enhance our chances of experiencing it.” When we share positive emotions with another person, experience a synchrony between their biochemistry and behaviors and ours, plus exhibit mutual care, love can bloom, whether we stay happily single or decide to pursue a committed relationship. She calls this triple-action sequence “positivity resonance”. Love, she observes, is less a smooth, solid path than momentary experiences of connection.
Making Love Last
The more areas of connection we have with our partners, the more opportunities we have to positively resonate every day, adds Frederickson. Thomas G. Plante, Ph.D., a psychology professor at California’s Santa Clara University and adjunct clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine, agrees. “Long-term relationships, like marriages, are partnerships in living,” according to Plante. “The vast majority of the time couples are together they’re not having hot sex, but are sharing a practical day-to-day life together.” Shared activities aren’t always exciting or glamorous. Raising children, working, managing a home, cooking and cleaning, shopping, being with friends and family and the rest of regular daily living is where the rubber meets the road in relationship satisfaction, observes Plante. “If couples aren’t compatible in these areas, then the connection and attraction will inevitably atrophy, tensions emerge and too often, relationships fracture and fall apart.” Compatibility means different things to different people, and requirements can change as individuals in a romantic partnership change over time.
Compatibility also means agreement that the relationship is worth the effort to nurture and sustain it.
Partnering Life’s Dance
Five couples in different stages of loving partnerships share how they make their special relationships work. The key to them all is shared values. Doing everything together. For newlyweds Drs. Josh and Chelsea Axe, of Nashville, Tennessee, a mutual commitment to vigorous wellness and physical fitness keeps them together. Says Josh, “The healthy lifestyle I have chosen to live is so important that I need someone who is able to not just agree, but also partner with me.” Married in 2012, the two chiropractic physicians went on to co-found the BurstFIT interval training program and meld their professional, as well as personal, lives. Chelsea notes, “There is truth to the phrase, ‘Couples that sweat together, stay together.’ When working out together, you share a specific energy you create while pushing yourself to your mental and physical limits. You have your partner right there doing it alongside you, knowing they’re supporting you; so when you each break through a mental or physical barrier in your workout, you step over together into a strength and confidence that carries over into your marriage. Being a part of each other’s goals and the struggles to reach them unifies us.” Remarks Josh, “I feel like we can both be successful individually, but when we’re a team, the outcome is synergistic.” Chelsea adds, “It’s never a mindset of ‘me.’ It’s always ‘us.’” Balancing work and play. Barbara and Bob Unell, of Leawood, Kansas, dated as teenagers, went their separate ways in college and then found each other again in their early 20s. “We went on a blind date in 1968 and both belted out songs on the car radio,” recalls Barbara. “I thought he had a great sense of humor and was fun to be with. All these years later, it feels like we’re still dating. We’re crazy about each other.” Both Barbara and Bob describe themselves as enthusiastic, playful, entrepreneurial,
“Seventy-five to 80 percent of all chemistry evaporates within six to eight months unless the relationship is significantly undergirded by deeper and more durable compatibility.” ~Neil Clark Warren altruistic and geared toward creative projects, whether undertaken together or separately. “We’re both, ‘Let’s try this,’ sort of people,” says Barbara with a laugh. When the Unells had twins, now grown, they realized there was no national publication addressing how to parent multiples, so they launched Twins magazine in 1984. Bob founded and managed an advertising agency while Barbara wrote bestselling parenting books, but the whole family traveled together on her speaking engagements. In response to becoming a breast cancer survivor, Barbara founded the nonprofit Back in the Swing in 2000 to support survivorship care at cancer centers. When they needed additional staff, Bob joined the team in 2009. One of the biggest things that Barbara has learned from Bob is, “You can make work fun.” “Although we come from different backgrounds, Bob and I know the power of mutual respect, trust and kindness,” reflects Barbara. “Part of our con-
nection is that we have shared history and never take each other for granted.” Making long-distance work. Lisa Ekus, who runs the full-service culinary talent agency The Lisa Ekus Group, in Hatfield, Massachusetts, had been married twice and already raised her two children when she met Atlanta Chef Virginia Willis. They got to know each other through culinary events and to their surprise, fell in love. Over the past six years they’ve evolved a relationship that works for them—keeping a deep personal connection, but maintaining separate residences. Cookbook author Willis gardens, develops recipes and writes for her Food Network blog, “Down Home Comfort,” at Ekus’ New England compound in the summers; Ekus travels to the South during cold months. They also meet up as often as they can at conferences, food and wine festivals and other events during the rest of the year. “We are both smart, professional women who love what we do, have strong ethics and a high level of self-expectation in how we work,” says Ekus. “We are also best friends and work together professionally. The respect we have for each other and our work is instrumental in our relationship.” “We often joke about the North/ South, fast/slow cultural difference,” Ekus notes. “I’m more spontaneous; Virginia is more thoughtful in her responses. I tend to move fast and focus on checking off items, while Virginia is more about the journey and being in the moment. It often makes us each take stock and consider what we’re doing and saying.” They make the geographic separation work despite its inherent longdistance complications via consistent communication, saying good morning and good night every day by phone and texting often. They hold regular agent/author meetings to make professional plans and personal calendar meetings at least weekly, recognizing and respecting what is important to each of them.
Bridging the age gap. Karen and Dick Eagle, from St. Louis, Missouri, are 16 years apart in age, but are close in the ways that count. Both are strongminded and still vie to get their own natural awakenings
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“Marriages based on a mutual desire to serve and inspire grow continually in richness and beauty, and are a benediction to all who know of them.” ~ Meher Baba way even after 30 years of marriage. “We argue over the stupidest things, and then resolve our disagreements and realize how good we have it,” says Karen. What first attracted them to each other—and keeps them together—is a love of playful fun and good times with friends. Karen remarks, “I knew Dick was ‘the one’ when he jumped flat-footed over a wingback chair at a friend’s house. That showed me that he was young at heart.” Making ends meet. Eleven years ago, when family therapist Susan Franklin lost her husband, Michael, a university college professor, she felt
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bereft and overwhelmed. The pair had owned a country property near Cleveland, Ohio, where they boarded horses. Susan realized, “I couldn’t keep up with everything on my own,” and Jake Marshall, a musician friend of Michael’s, offered to help. Over time, Susan and Jake became close, and they now live together. Although Jake is a great supporter in many ways, he’s not in a position to help financially. Susan depends on her late husband’s insurance and pension benefits, which she would lose if she remarries. “Jake is so laid back and easy to be with, I can relax,” says Susan. Michael, on the other hand, always seemed to fill a room. Jake helps Susan with chores around the property and she is always there cheering him on from the front row when he performs at local venues.
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Cultivating Care
Working out as a couple, sharing a creative project or making a gourmet meal together can do more than keep partners feeling connected. Shared activities also keep the positive experiences ongoing and resonating. “That special bond and the commitments people often build around it are the products of love, the results of the many smaller moments in which love infuses you,” maintains Fredrickson. Such moments not only accumulate, but can also be stored in memory and banked to feed a relationship during the tougher times. “Love is something we should re-cultivate every day,” she says. A loving partnership is always a work in progress. Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from Overland Park, KS.
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coverartist
fitbody
Eduardo Kobra Brazilian cover artist Eduardo Kobra takes his unique style to transform drab city walls into colorful kaleidoscopic scenes that delight, inspire and intrigue passersby. Many of Kobra’s larger-than-life photorealistic murals depict legendary figures and images, reinterpreting them in his signature geometric blocks of color. The self-taught artist has used the streets as his canvas since age 12, when he joined a São Paulo graffiti crew to express his frustrations and creativity. Today an artistic legend in his own right, Kobra continues to innovate using recycled materials and techniques such as tromp l’oeil on sidewalk paintings, where 3D figures appear to burst from the pavement. Kobra often does detailed research on the neighborhoods where he creates his nostalgic murals to generate historically accurate yet modernized depictions of bygone eras. His project “Memory Walls,” in his hometown, São Paulo, seeks to transform the urban landscape through art and rescue memories of the city. The cover image is of a mural Kobra painted in Chelsea, recreating Alfred Eisenstaedt’s iconic 1945 photo of a couple kissing in Times Square on V-J Day. View the artist’s portfolio at EduardoKobra.com. 24
FITNESS FINDS Locate the Best Workout Space for You by Debra Melani
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ix years ago, Sherry Salmons, of Oak Ridge, Illinois, was perplexed by her “glowing, smiling, energetic” neighbor that worked full time while raising three young children, yet never seemed drained. Finally, she asked: “What’s your secret?” The answer was a life-changing visit by Salmons to a nearby holistic fitness studio. Lucking into good recommendations can whittle down the multitude of choices available at 32,000 U.S. health clubs and studios, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association. With the dual trends of niche studios and low-cost fitness centers fueling a diverse burst in workout options, club-seekers should apply their sleuthing skills before deciding on something that can prove so pivotal to their health. Clue #1: Location and hours. If a facility isn’t near home or work, people won’t go, says Jim White, an American
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College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) health fitness specialist, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. “Our time is so valuable that going to the gym can’t be a hassle.” Check online and list nearby facilities and hours, scratching off any that aren’t open at convenient times. Clue #2: Know what you need. Some people have absolute necessities for fitness success. “For instance, avid swimmers need a pool,” says Grace DeSimone, an ACSM personal trainer in New York City. “That’s going to reduce their choices considerably.” Other nonnegotiable provisions might be a yoga studio, indoor track or child care. Clue #3: Gym rat or newbie? A fitness facility that costs pennies a day might seem like an obvious choice, but not if our fitness level and knowledge are near zero. “A lot of people don’t know what to do in a gym,” observes White, who owns personal training
studios in Virginia. “We’re especially for those who want their hands held or want to see results fast.” Niche studios focused on modalities from kick boxing to dance therapy can offer added guidance. DeSimone notes that other reputable facilities will likewise have accredited trainers, often at a low cost. Larger facilities also may offer more options for a newbie to try out before settling on what they like, she says. Clue #4: Take a test drive. Make use of trial periods and guest passes. “Get a feel for the culture,” says Chris Freytag, spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise and a personal trainer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. “People are more likely to stay motivated in an environment that inspires them and with people that motivate them,” Freytag says. During on-site visits, do we feel at home among kindred spirits our own age? Is the facility clean and secure? Clue #5: Look at the equipment. If the gym doesn’t have the equipment we want to use, whether it’s Pilates or TRX equipment, free weights or Kettlebells, then move on. A gym worth joining will have plenty of up-to-date equipment that follows the latest fitness trends and works properly, says White. Clue #6: Investigate the staff. Checking out the staff is key for those seeking specialized guidance, such as yoga, martial arts or personal training. Look for trainers and instructors available to help that are certified by a reputable program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Investigating key employees’ back-
grounds, including acupuncturists and massage therapists, is crucial. Clue #7: Sign with caution. Avoid signing long-term, complicated contracts, which are rare these days, DeSimone counsels. “Don’t be overwhelmed by a high-pressured sales pitch; just stand your ground, because those people are at your service.” White recommends making sure the price includes expected services; feel free to negotiate, especially with initial fees. Understand all policies, especially cancellation clauses, and use a credit card, which is easier to correct if problems arise, adds DeSimone. Although Salmons was lucky, with her neighbor’s recommendation leading her to her perfect studio, people should investigate to find their ideal fit. “It starts when you walk in the door,” Salmons says about her attraction to The Balance Fitness Studio. “The space is open, exposed and it’s got this very clean, feng shui energy.” Not a traditional, iron-pumping, music-blasting gym fan, Salmons prefers Pilates, but participates in all of the studio’s offerings, including massage, acupuncture and nutrition classes. While finding the right club has boosted her fitness level, she notes that the real magic has come in the form of revitalized energy. “It’s changed me in all aspects of my life. When I leave, I feel mentally focused, emotionally balanced and refreshed. It’s kind of transformational.” Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at Debra Melani.com or DMelani@msn.com.
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Helping a Mourning Friend H
ere’s comforting advice from grief advocate Megan Devine for friends yearning to soothe a bereaved friend. Don’t try to fix it: Don’t say anything that tries to fix the unfixable, and you’ll do fine. It’s an unfathomable relief to have a friend that doesn’t try to take the pain away. Grief belongs to the griever: You have a supporting role, not the central role, in a friend’s grief, which is an entirely personal experience. Anticipate, don’t ask: Don’t say, “Call me if you need anything,” because your friend won’t call; not because they don’t need support, but because identifying a need, figuring out who might fill it, and then reaching out to ask is beyond their energy level, capacity or interest. Instead, make concrete offers of practical assistance in doing normal tasks or chores for the friend and deliver on them. Be willing to witness searing pain: Simply be quietly present. Acknowledge their state and stick with simple truths: “This hurts. I love you. I’m here.”
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healingways
Gentling
GRIEF Remedies to
Heal the Heart by Kathleen Barnes
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rief can arrive suddenly with the death of a loved one, serious illness, loss of a job, parental dementia or decaying relationship. In any case, it takes a toll. “Grief encompasses all of our thoughts and feelings. Mourning is when we put them into action by talking, crying, perhaps doing rituals,” explains Tracy Riley, a licensed clinical social worker and grief counselor in Jacksonville, Florida. “Grief isn’t something that’s over when you wake up one day,” Riley counsels. “It’s ridiculous when an employer gives you three days off and then expects everything to be fine.” She notes that time helps heal all wounds, but even a decade after losing a loved one, the pain can remain and life is never the same, although most of us learn to live with loss and move forward. “Some things can’t be fixed,” concludes Megan Devine, a psychotherapist in Portland, Oregon, and author of the audio book, When Everything is Not Okay, who blogs at RefugeInGrief. com. After witnessing the drowning death of her fiancé, she says, “I didn’t need to hear platitudes that everything would be OK. I needed something solid to hold onto when my whole world exploded.”
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Physical Aids
An unexpected death and any emotional shock is an extreme stressor that causes the adrenal glands to release a flood of adrenaline. Tina Erwin, La Mesa, California author of The Lightworker’s Guide to Healing Grief, explains, “If you get a shock when someone close to you dies, your adrenal glands are blown out almost instantly and you are overwhelmed with adrenaline, much like we often see in people with post-traumatic stress disorder. You need to rebalance your body chemistry.” Intense grief can sometimes show up as chest pain, a classic sign of heart attack, due to a temporary disruption of the heart’s normal pumping action from a surge in stress hormones, according to the National Institutes of Health. Yet Imperial College London scientists now have found that a recognizable “broken heart syndrome” may temporarily protect the heart from being overwhelmed with adrenaline. “Healing the physical side of grief ultimately helps healing on an emotional level, too,” says Erwin. To assist herself following the death of her 6-yearold niece from a sudden infection, she uses several Bach flower remedies for trauma—Rescue Remedy, to rebalance
the flood of adrenaline; Star of Bethlehem, for shock and loss; and Mimulus, for fear and anxiety. “Combining a few drops of each of these in a water bottle or tea several times a day helps you regain a feeling of balance,” Erwin says. She also likes drinking bloodcleansing noni juice to help wash adrenaline out of the body, and taking salt baths enhanced with lavender essential oil to literally “wash away the darkness.”
consciouseating
Emotional Aids
Riley views art and music therapy, plus journaling (a “personal roadmap” that helps chart her progress), as powerful healing tools. She’s also seen firsthand how animals can play a key role through the mourning process. Her miniature schnauzer intuitively approaches her clients that are anxious and grieving and gives them permission to pet him. “It puts people at ease,” she says. “Then they can talk more freely about their pain.” Numerous studies, starting in the 1980s, show that stroking a furry pet lowers blood pressure.
Charting a Personal Course
For the bereaved (literally defined as “torn apart”), the symptoms of grief are meant to slow us down, advises Alan Wolfelt, Ph.D., director of the Center for Loss and Life Transition, in Fort Collins, Colorado, and author of numerous related books, including Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart. Society expects bereaved people to “carry on, keep their chins up, be glad they had him/her as long as they did or else be grateful that our loved one’s pain is over”—all platitudes that are more hurtful than helpful, says Wolfelt. Mourning takes time, but it also requires a social context, he explains. “It’s the shared response to loss. If you isolate yourself, you are grieving, not mourning. You can’t do this on your own. It’s bigger than you.” For those that feel stuck or unable to move forward, experienced grief counselors may be able to help. Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous health books, including Ten Best Ways to Manage Stress. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
HAPPY MEALS Eating Healthy Foods Fights Off Depression A
by Lane Vail
dvertisements for antidepressants abound, yet a recent analysis in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the benefits of treating mildly or moderately depressed individuals with these drugs “may be minimal or nonexistent” compared with a placebo. Most physicians agree that at least part of the prevention of and recovery from depression can be addressed through diet. “Every molecule in the brain begins as food,” says Dr. Drew Ramsey, author of The Happiness Diet and assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. “Food choice is the biggest puzzle piece patients have under their control.” Ramsey describes the modern American diet as being overwhelmed with highly processed foods, refined carbohydrates, omega-6 fats and sugar. His food philosophy serves as an overall prescription for mental health: “Eat food that comes from farms and not factories; simple, recognizable human food.” Registered Dietitian Kathie Swift, an integrative clinical nutritionist in Len-
nox, Massachusetts, and author of The Swift Diet, agrees that food is powerful medicine. She recommends a balanced, flexitarian diet founded on plants, but including high-quality, animal-sourced foods. Just shifting our processed-foods to whole-foods ratio yields an improved mood, Swift says, which continues to motivate dietary change.
Prebiotic/Probiotic Potential
Recent science suggests a deeper meaning to the “gut feeling” adage. Bacteria in the gut and neurochemicals in the brain communicate intimately and bidirectionally via the vagus nerve, explains Swift. Altering the gut’s microbial population, whether from chronic stress, antibiotic overuse or nutritional deficiencies, can change brain chemistry and thereby influence mood, mental clarity and sleep, she says. In 2013, Canadian researchers altered both the neurochemicals and behavior in mice by switching their intestinal microbiota; anxious mice given the microbes of intrepid mice became braver, and vice versa. Another small
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study in the British Journal of Nutrition showed a decrease in depression and anxiety symptoms in volunteers taking probiotics for a month. Essentially, says Swift, “We have a brain in the belly,” which must be nourished by both prebiotics (soluble fiber) and probiotics (fermented food). “Fiber is the quintessential substance to feed the lovely community of bugs in the gut,” says Swift, “while fermented foods interact with resident bacteria and give them a boost.” She recommends a variety of vegetables as a primary source of fiber, especially legumes, along with
fruits, nuts, cheese and the occasional gluten-free whole grain. Probiotic foods include fermented vegetables, kefir, yogurt with live active cultures and apple cider vinegar.
B Happy
Most psychiatric medications target feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, says Ramsey, but the body also manufactures these chemicals naturally during the methylation cycle, a B-vitamin-dependent neurological process. “B vitamins are superstars of the brain,”
Ramsey says. “Think of them as lubrication for the brain’s gears.” Folate, or vitamin B9 is particularly important to healthy nervous system functioning. A meta-analysis of 15,000 people reported in the Journal of Epidemiology associated low folate with a higher risk of depression. Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach and Swiss chard are high in B vitamins, as are beets, eggs, lentils, beans and whole grains; helpful fruits include papaya, avocado and berries.
Omega-3s Please
“It’s a horrible notion that fat is bad,” says Ramsey. Swift agrees, noting, “We need a major renovation and reeducation of this important neuro-nutrient.” The integrity of a neuron cell membrane, which Swift describes as “a beautiful and fluid layer of lipids,” is crucial for brain health because it dictates communication among neurotransmitters. “The fat we eat becomes the fat of our cell membranes,” she says. “So nourish your membranes with adequate amounts of the right types of fat.” Long-chain omega-3s (DHA) docosahexaenoic acid and (EPA) eicosapentaenoic acid build and protect neurons, help prevent cognitive decline with age and can boost overall mood and mental performance, says Ramsey. A study in the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry found that treating depressed patients with omega-3 EPA was as equally effective as Prozac. “DHA and EPA are the two most important fats for brain health on the planet, period,” states Ramsey. Foods rich in omega-3s include fatty seafood like salmon, mussels and oysters, plus sea vegetables, walnuts, flaxseed and grass-fed beef. For vegetarians and vegans, Ramsey recommends an algal DHA supplement. Focusing on feeding the brain doesn’t preclude staving off heart disease, obesity or diabetes. “Follow the rules of eating for brain health,” Ramsey says, “and you’ll also be slim, energized, focused and resilient.” It’s all a recipe for happiness. Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com. 28
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Using Neurotherapy to Improve Brain Function by Jolene Ross
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to operate at its best. At first, the client sits in front of a brain that is not producing healthy brainwaves blank screen with sensors attached to the scalp. For every can impact everything from learning disabilities, quarter of a second that the brain is producing better brain |to ADHD, behavioral issues, psychological disorwaves, a portion of a greater image appears on the screen, ders and physical problems. Medical events and trauma similar to a puzzle piece. These puzzle pieces appear ranare among the things that can disrupt the brain’s natural domly, and are accompanied by an audible tone. After 10 creation of healthy waves. Fortunately, there is a safe and puzzle pieces appear, the entire image effective way to teach the brain to imis revealed, acting as a reward because prove without the use of medication. of the satisfaction derived from receiving Neurotherapy can correct or imthe complete image. prove anomalies in brain functioning As this reward process continues that are responsible for disordered brain and repeats, it teaches the brain to make wave activity. The process is designed better waves, resulting in better function. to increase or reinforce normal or favorThe brain does all of the work, without able brain activity and decrease or inthe patient even realizing that changes hibit abnormal activity. The overall goal are being made. Neurotherapy is advanof neurotherapy is to help people live tageous because it is noninvasive and healthier, happier and more productive self-regulated, with no known side eflives by retraining the brain to naturally fects or systemic or pharmacological increate healthy brainwaves. teractions. Research shows that it’s also The process is quite simple for the Patient receiving brain training. effective across a wide range of condipatient. It begins with a quantitative tions and age groups. EEG, also known as a brain map, to de Neurotherapy is becoming a primary-care choice for termine where the brain is struggling. Because every brain many patients that want safe and natural methods for dealis different, this step is crucial to developing customized ing with medical and psychological disorders. Rather than brain training protocols. The brain wave data is detected take a medication, clients correct the source of the problem and electronically recorded at nineteen locations on the by gaining control over brain functioning. In addition, some scalp. While this data is being gathered, the patient is asked patients use neurotherapy to improve their performance in to close and open their eyes and perform various tasks school, work or sports. The better the brain functions, the that are appropriate for their age and ability, such as video better the person functions. With such an easy and effective watching, reading and math. method of improving brain function, everyone is capable of Next, the patient’s brain wave data is analyzed and reaching their highest potential. displayed in various ways with the purpose of determining how it differs from typical brain waves of other individuals Dr. Jolene Ross is the founder and director of Advanced of the same age, performing the same tasks. The informaNeurotherapy, located at 145 Rosemary St., in Needham. tion can then be used to develop brain training protocol For more information, call 781-444-9115 or visit that is unique to the individual. AdvancedNeurotherapy.com. See ad, page 6 and Resource After the initial brain mapping, the neurotherapy proGuide, page 40. cess begins, using a reward system to encourage the brain natural awakenings
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inspiration
into her body and inquired about the dread: “How big is it and how deep does it go? Does it have a flavor?” The more she questioned, the more curiosity and attention she brought to the emotion and the freer she felt.
Turn Curiosity into Compassion
O’Malley learned to more accurately self-report her feelings. Instead of, “I am afraid,” she learned to assess; “Dread is here.” Then she cultivated compassion, treating the dread as her friend signaling the need for a solution. She acknowledged and listened to the stricken and paralyzed parts of herself, knowing they were separating her from joy because they needed to be heard and understood.
Step Outside Struggle to Embrace Humility
What’s in Your Way? Obstacles Point the Path to Wholeness and Healing by Deborah Shouse
S
O’Malley believes that struggle is humanity’s core compulsion. We develop a story about the difficulty of life and heroically fight against myriad injustices. Yet making a U-turn in perspective to see them as challenges is tailor-made to help us recognize and achieve separation from our individual struggles in favor of a better way of experiencing life. “The dictionary misses the full meaning when it defines humility as ‘lowliness, meekness, submissiveness,’” O’Malley believes. “True humility is a state of great availability, and from this kind of openness we can reconnect with the joy of being fully alive.” She now discovers gifts embedded in every single challenge. Deborah Shouse blogs at DeborahShouseWrites.wordpress.com.
ince childhood, Mary O’Malley always thought that something bad was about to happen and experienced a continuous dread that gnawed her insides. Over the years, she tried to eat, drink and medicate away the anxious feelings plaguing her, and sought help from group therapy, hypnotherapy and psychiatrists. Then in 1972, in her late 20s, O’Malley attended a yoga workshop that helped advance her quest to let go of struggles and embrace life. Later, when she met Stephen Levine, whose teaching is influenced by Buddhism, he conveyed, “There’s nothing in you that needs to be fixed,” and invited her to view her own issues with curiosity and compassion. The transformational insights learned along her journey shared in her book, What’s In the Way Is the Way, include simple tools for those that need to move beyond struggles to live in the present with more peace, ease and joy.
Train as a Tightness Detective
Ask this internal question when feeling stressed: “In what aspect of life am I holding on for dear life?” Is your breath short, are your shoulders tight; do you feel a fist in your solar plexus or an elephant sitting on your chest? These are indications that you’re aligned with some struggle. By softening and breathing into the tight places, you can open into life and better align with ease and grace.
Strengthen the Curiosity Muscle
Whenever O’Malley experienced inner gnawing, she tuned natural awakenings
February 2015
31
be good purr often wag more
naturalpet
When Your Pet Passes A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing by Julianne Hale
A
pet’s love is extraordinary because it is unconditional. It doesn’t have expectations, pass judgment or try to leverage guilt. It is rich in loyalty, trust and adoration. Domestic pets provide warmth, companionship and love, as well as purpose, fun and conversational gam-
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Boston | NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com
bits for family members. For lonely hearts, they are a lifeline, providing a physical, emotional and spiritual connection to life that may prove critical to survival and happiness. Loving pets seem like an endless source of happiness while with us, but few outlive their owners. Loss is as much a part of having a pet as potty training . For some, the loss of a dog or cat is debilitating and the grieving process can take months. Rev. Gary Kowalski, author of Goodbye, Friend and a Unitarian Universalist minister in Santa Fe, New Mexico, contends that the depth of the relationship that we develop with pets emerges from the time we spend with them every day—exercising, feeding, grooming and even sleeping with them. The relationship is pure and uncomplicated, and the pain of separation can be especially intense and profound. The challenge of pet loss is often complicated by the difficult decision to euthanize an aged or suffering animal. “One of the hardest things
For some, the loss of a dog or cat is debilitating and the grieving process can take months. about having a dog is that sometimes you have to decide to end its life,” says Jon Katz, of upstate New York, a New York Times bestselling author of many books about dogs, including Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die. “Our job as pet owners is to be an advocate for our pets, making sure they do not suffer. Don’t poison the joy that you shared with your pet with guilt over your decisions,” he says. Katz recommends taking photos of pets and making intentional memories in the time leading up to parting to encourage closure. The same kind of rituals we use to honor and say goodbye to other family members can likewise help ease the pain of a pet’s passing. Owners can gather with loved ones and friends to celebrate the life of their pet with a burial ceremony or memorial. Kowalski likes adding meaningful words. His book includes a variety of readings that pet owners can use in their rituals taken from poems, literature, the Bible and other sacred texts. When a human friend or family member dies, compassion and empathy flows from everyone we meet, but many may not be aware of, or understand, the depth of grief associated with a pet’s death. “Some people feel embarrassed or don’t understand that mourning a deceased pet is a normal process,” explains Julia Harris, a pet bereavement counselor from Ellijay, Georgia, and author of Pet Loss: A Spiritual Guide. Support is essential during times of grief, and it can be difficult to find an understanding friend to discuss it with. Several online communities are devoted to providing support. An Internet search of “pet loss support” yields a wealth of online resources. In the same way that the belief in an afterlife comforts people of many faith traditions when a person passes, the possibility of the same destiny for pets can offer comfort. “Perhaps one of the most common questions I am asked is whether or not animals have a soul,” explains Harris. “I encourage people to know that the soul, like love, is eternal. It leaves the physical body, but the loving relationship continues.” While there’s no standard timeline for the grieving process, it’s important to keep perspective. Excessive grief can lead to depression. “If the grief is interfering with life and your work, then you may need to seek professional help,” advises Katz. Not even a parent is capable of providing the purely unconditional love we receive from pets. Kowalski views it as a sacred connection, observing that through the unconditional love and acceptance that we receive from our pets, we get a little glimpse of what God’s love must look like.
F
Helping Children Cope
or many children, the loss of a beloved pet is their first exposure to death, and age-appropriate honesty is the best policy for helping them through this difficult time. Rev. Gary Kowalski advises parents and caregivers to reassure kids that the death of an animal is not something they have to fear, and let them know that the animal is not in pain, is not sleeping and is in a peaceful place. He cautions parents against speaking euphemistically about death to young children. Involving children in the planning of a memorial service for a pet can be therapeutic. Let them talk openly about their favorite memories together and their sadness. Bereavement counselor Julia Harris encourages parents to share stories from their faith traditions that address afterlife. “These stories can help your child best understand that God continues to watch over their pet,” she contends. “This provides a sense of security that the pet is safe and remains with your child in spirit and memory.”
Julianne Hale is a writer and editor for Natural Awakenings and blogs about family life at AnotherGrayHair.WordPress.com. natural awakenings
February 2015
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We applaud you for all you do to help save animals in need. ANDOVER
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GDRNE.org
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FriendsOfBeverlyAnimals.org
BOSTON
Animal Rescue League of Boston (617) 426-9170 ARLBoston.org
MSPCA-Angell (617) 522-7400 MSPCA.org
PAWS New England
PAWSNewEngland.com
Survivor Tails Animal Rescue 617-383-PETS SurvivorTails.org
UnderdogResQ
UnderdogResQ.org
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One Tail at a Time
OneTailAtATime.com
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Ellen M. Gifford Shelter (617) 787-8872 GiffordCatShelter.org
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Calliope Rescue, Inc. CalliopeRescue.org
CHESTNUT HILL Boston Dog Rescue
BostonDogRescue.com
Broken Tail Rescue
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Animal Rescue League of Boston
Kitty Connection
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Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society (978) 462-0760 MRFRS.org
Melrose Humane Society
SOUTH BOSTON
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(617) 268-7800 AFABoston.org
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SweetPawsRescue.org
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Second Chance Animal Shelter
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Forever Paws Animal Shelter (508) 677-9154 ForeverPaws.com
GLOUCESTER
Cape Ann Animal Aid
(978) 283-6055 CapeAnnAnimalAid.com
HOPKINTON
Baypath Humane Society (508) 435-6938 BayPathHumane.org
LOWELL
Lowell Humane Society (978) 452-7781 LowellHumaneSociety.org
MARBLEHEAD
Friends of Marblehead’s Abandoned Animals
(781) 631-8664 Marblehead-Animal-Shelter.org
MelroseHumaneSociety.org
Milton Animal League, Inc.
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Alliance for Animals
STERLING
Sterling Animal Shelter SterlingShelter.org
All Dog Rescue
SUDBURY
NORTH BILLERICA
(978) 443-6990 BuddyDogHS.com
Billerica Cat Care Coalition
BillericaCatCareCoalition.org
NORTH ATTLEBORO North Attleboro Animal Shelter NAShelter.org
QUINCY
Quincy Animal Shelter (617) 376-1349 QuincyAnimalShelter.org
REVERE
Animal Umbrella
(617) 731-7267 AnimalUmbrella.org
SALEM
Northeast Animal Shelter (978) 745-9888 NortheastAnimalShelter.org
CitySideSubaru.com • 617-826-5000 34
SALISBURY
Buddy Dog Humane Society, Inc
Save A Dog, Inc (978) 443-7282 SaveADog.org
WALTHAM
Cat Connection of Waltham (781) 899-4610 TheCatConnection.org
WOBURN
House Rabbit Network (781) 431-1211 RabbitNetwork.org
WINTHROP Mass PAWS
(617) 846-5586 MassPAWS.petfinder.org
calendarofevents All Calendar events for the March issue must be received by February 10th and adhere to our guidelines. Visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. For extended event descriptions and additional listings, visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Hypnosis for Pain Management – 6:30-8pm. Learn simple techniques that can help to change the signals of discomfort. Enjoy a group hypnosis session designed to release endorphins, the body’s natural opiate. Benefit event, by donation. The Healing Center at Our Weeping Angel Foundation, 190 Old Derby St, Ste 100, Hingham. 781-3402146. Hypnosis.ws.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Herbs for Cold & Flu – 7-9pm. Learn to use common herbs to build vitality and manage the symptoms of colds and influenza. $25. CommonWealth Center for Holistic Herbalism, 25 Saint Mary’s Ct, Brookline. 617-750-5274. CommonWealthHerbs.com.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Somerville Laughter Club – 7-8pm. Let’s get together and laugh together. This is an Energy Laughter Yoga group. Lots of fun, mindfulness and mind/body awareness, playfulness. Donation to cover rent. Unity Somerville, 6 William St, Somerville. 617-628-5558. SomervilleLaughterClub.com.
markyourcalendar Healthy Living Magazine Expo
Celebrating 10 years of directing you towards living a healthier life. Expo includes the following inspiring presenters: Alicia Mathewson, Beatrice Whalin, Beth Jackson O’Connor, David O’Brien, Doreen White-Tripp, Candy O’Terry, Edward Williamson, Emma Boyle, Jill Jardine, Katie Malloy Ramaci, Lisa Campion, Mark Mincolla, Roland Comtois, Paulette Gloria Harwood, Penny Spellberg and Victoria Haffer.
Sunday, April 19 • 10am-6pm Admission to exhibit hall is free if you Friend us on Facebook; $5 otherwise. Select seminars require a fee. Plymouth Radisson, 180 Water St, Plymouth. 781-834-2728. For details: MyHealthyLivingMag.com or MMamet@verizon.net.
markyourcalendar
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Third Annual Celebration of Reiki Conference
The Artist’s Way: An Introduction – 2:30-4pm. Join Positive Psychology Coach, Kim Childs, to reclaim creative dreams and desires via The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. $18. The Arlington Center, 369 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington. 617-640-3813. Kim@KimChilds.com. More info: KimChilds.com.
Sunday, April 26 • 8am-5:30pm
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Boosting Immunity with Acupressure & Magnet Therapy – 9am-4pm. Look at the immune system from a Chinese medicine perspective. Learn the types of qi involved. Explore the key acupoints to activate immunity. $120, plus $30 materials fee. Cortiva Institute, 103 Morse St, Watertown. 617612-6905. Cortiva.com.
Join Reiki practitioners and teachers from across the region for an exceptional day exploring the theme: Living Reiki. Give yourself the gift of a day to learn from, and connect with, your Reiki community. $80 by Feb 1; $90 by Feb 2-Apr 2 $15 lunch option. Brookline Holiday Inn, 1200 Beacon St, Brookline. For registration & more info, Elise Brenner: EliseB@rcn.com or CelebrationOfReikiConference.org.
CORRECTION: Please note correct date for Celebration of Reiki Conference is April 26. The incorrect date was published in the January 2015 issue.
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To advertise with us call:
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Reiki Level 2 (Okuden) Training and Certification – 9am-6:30pm. Go deeper into the teachings and practice of Reiki. Learn new techniques and treatment for mental-emotional distress. Also a gateway to a professional Reiki practice. CEUs for nurses and LMTs. $300. Brenner Reiki Healing, 324 Central St, Newton. 617-244-8856. BrennerReikiHealing.com. Aromatherapy Certification Course – 10am5pm. Meets Feb 8, 15, Mar 8, 29. Comprehensive course addresses body systems, common ailments and essential oils most helpful for each condition. Learn three blending methods. Discover how essential oils work to heal body, mind and spirit. $400, plus a $50 materials fee. Boston School of Herbal Studies, Framingham. Register: 781-6466319. BostonHerbalStudies.com. The Incredible Dr. You Workshop – 12-1pm. A breakdown of the basics of Network Spinal Analysis. This class will help you get more out of your adjustments and enlighten you on just how incredible your body is at healing itself. Free. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Ste 250, Newton. 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com. Green Up Clean Power Campaign Launch – 5-7pm. Mothers Out Front and Climate Action Brookline launch a new campaign to switch households and businesses to clean electricity. Speakers and refreshments. Free. Teen Center, 40 Aspinwall Ave, Brookline. 617-429-7139. MothersOutFront.org.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Trigger Point Release Seminar – 7:30-8:30pm. Discover why gentle touch is so effective in reducing pain and tension in the body and learn techniques to effectively do this at home. Bring a partner as it requires another person to do it. Space limited, registration required. Free. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Ste 250, Newton. 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Calling in the One – 6-7:30pm. Coaching journey to find your true beloved and new, thriving
KALEIDOSCOPE EYES.
The Emergence of German New Medicine. German New Medicine (GNM) reveals that disease is initiated by a biological conflict that assists an individual during times of unexpected emotional distress.
gnmNewEngland.com
natural awakenings
February 2015
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relationships. This is intended to support you in calling in the love of your life. Tickets available on Eventbrite in advance. $10/advance, $15/at door. The Miraculous Spring at The Empowerment Factory, 999 Main St, Pawtucket. 774-264-9492. Group Healing with Mother’s Milk Divine Mother Energy – 7-8:30pm. Relaxing and powerful healing on physical, emotional, karmic, even genetic issues. Mini-psychic readings and group share. Pre-registration required. $20$40 sliding scale. The Healing Center, 259 Massachusetts Ave, Lower Level, Arlington. 617943-6980. AditiHealing.com. Herb-Infused Wines – 7-9pm. Learn to make your own herb-infused wines for medicine and for pleasure. $25. CommonWealth Center for Holistic Herbalism, 25 Saint Mary’s Ct, Brookline. 617750-5274. CommonWealthHerbs.com.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Learning to Learn – 7-8pm. Let’s share learning styles. For all ages. Share how you do it and learn from others. This is a mind/body/spirit style of sharing. Great for those seeking out of their own box. Donation to cover rent. Unity Somerville, 6 William St, Somerville. 617-628-5558. NeuroplasticityClub.com.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Community HU: Experience the Wisdom of Love of Your Inner World – 11am-12pm. People of all faiths and philosophies are cordially invited to join us to sing HU, an ancient name for God. Sung silently or out loud, singing or chanting this sacred word can bring benefits such as peace, calmness, solace in difficult times, expansion of awareness, and an experience of divine love. Free. TS Center for Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 508816-1454. EckInMass.org. TSBoston.org.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Just Breathe: Somato-Respiratory Integration Workshop – 7:30-8:30pm. Dr. Coleman teaches breathing exercises to help release your tension and calm your mind. Somato-Respiratory Integration (SRI) helps enhance your chiropractic care as well as free up energy in your body. $20. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Ste 250, Newton. 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com. New Moon Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. A mix of guided and silent meditations influenced by Native American practices. Liz is a Certified Crystal Healer and trained Meditation Teacher. This event promises to leave you both relaxed and empowered. Free. TS Center for Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 781-223-8900. TSBoston.org.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Holistic Healing: Marconic Reconnection Clinic – 6:30-8:30pm. Marconic Reconnection connects the grid systems of our bodies with the universe, allowing more light energy for a healthier body, mind, and spirit. Crystal healing enhances spiritual development and facilitates spiritual ascension. $25/25-min treatment. TS Center for Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 781-223-8900. TSBoston.org. Fed Up: Movie Screening – 7-9pm. Join us for a screening of this documentary about everyone’s favorite addiction, sugar. By donation.
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CommonWealth Center for Holistic Herbalism, 25 Saint Mary’s Ct, Brookline. 617-750-5274. CommonWealthHerbs.com.
limited. Free. The Red Raven, 3 Nagog Park, Acton. Register, Medical Aesthetics of New England: 978263-1406. MedicalAestheticsNE.com.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19
The Incredible Dr. You Workshop – 7:308:30pm. This first class in a series of two, breaks down the basics of Network Spinal Analysis, which is the method of chiropractic used at Newton Chiropractic. This class will help you get more out of your adjustments and enlighten you on just how incredible your body is at healing itself. Free. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Ste 250, Newton. 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com.
Spiritual Support for Individuals Seeking Employment – 7-8pm. Let’s talk about our values and what we want to bring to a new job and what we want to continue to carry with us when that job ends. Free. Unity Somerville, 6 William St, Somerville. 617-628-5558. MindBodySpiritExperience.com.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Free Admission at MFA – 10am-4:45pm. Celebrate the Lunar New Year with free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts. Plenty of fun family activities all day to mark the Year of the Goat. 465 Huntington Ave, Boston. 617-267-9300. MFA.org. Capture Your Life Story Workshops – Saturdays, Feb 21-Mar 28. 10:30am-12:30pm. A 6-wk series. Rediscover life stories worth keeping, and sharing, by exploring themes such as branching points, family, spirituality, friendships and more. $60/ SCATV members, $100/nonmembers. Somerville Community Access TV, 90 Union Sq, Somerville. 315-560-9120. StoriesLastingLifetimes.com. Atomic Messages Foundation: Open House – 12-3pm. Come and explore the Spiritual Messages from the 118 Atomic Elements. Discover how the Atomic Messages can help with personal growth, healing, relationships, and spiritual guidance. Experience an Element-Reading. Free. Atomic Messages Foundation, 99 Massachusetts Ave, Ste 3, East Arlington. 781-648-0048. ElementMessages.com.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 ASAT™ C.O.R.E Counseling Certificate Program – 9am-6pm. Also meeting on Feb 23, Apr 26, 27. ASAT™ C.O.R.E. (Conscious, Ownership, Retrieval/Release and Engage) is a unique approach to facilitation which helps clients exercise their unlimited capacity for conscious creation of life. $1,495. Cortiva Institute, 103 Morse St, Watertown. 617-612-6905. Cortiva.com. Reiki Level 1 (Shoden) Training and Certification – 9am-6:30pm. Learn to work with the system of Reiki to improve your own wellbeing and care for others. Professional, credible training merging traditional Japanese Reiki teachings with contemporary health needs. CEUs for nurses and LMTs. $150. Brenner Reiki Healing, 324 Central St, Newton. 617-244-8856. BrennerReikiHealing.com. Free Introduction to Reiki – 10am-12pm. Learn about the hands-on healing art of Reiki, used for stress-reduction and relaxation. Reiki facilitates healing on all levels, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. Pre-registration required. Free. Arlington Reiki Associates, 366 Massachusetts Ave, Ste 304, Arlington. 781-648-9334. ArlingtonReiki.com.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 A New Way to Age – 6-8pm. Is your goal to be less tired, irritable and better able to concentrate? Higher libido? Weight loss? Great skin? If yes, learn about our expanded Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Learn how to protect your bones, brain, breasts, heart, joints and relationships. Includes appetizers, a signature cocktail and giveaways. Space
Boston | NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Group Healing with Mother’s Milk Divine Mother Energy – 7-8:30pm. Relaxing and powerful healing on physical, emotional, karmic, even genetic issues. Mini-psychic readings and group share. Pre-registration required. $20$40 sliding scale. The Healing Center, 259 Massachusetts Ave, Lower Level, Arlington. 617943-6980. AditiHealing.com. Lecture: Understanding the Underlying Imbalance behind Chronic Conditions – 7-8:30pm. Learn why digestion, elimination, blood sugar, insulin resistance and stress can be the underlying issues causing or contributing to your symptoms or chronic illness. Discover simple lifestyle changes and therapies towards better health. Free. Johnson Compounding & Wellness, 577 Main St, Waltham. 781-893-3870. NaturalCompounder.com. Herbs for Addiction & Harm Reduction – 7-9pm. A discussion on harm reduction strategies and herbal support for moving away from addictive patterns of behavior. $25. CommonWealth Center for Holistic Herbalism, 25 Saint Mary’s Ct, Brookline. 617-750-5274. CommonWealthHerbs.com.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Atomic Messages Foundation: Open House – 6-9pm. Come and explore the Spiritual Messages from the 118 Atomic Elements. Discover how the Atomic Messages can help with personal growth, healing, relationships, and spiritual guidance. Experience an Element-Reading. Free. Atomic Messages Foundation, 99 Massachusetts Ave, Ste 3, East Arlington. 781-648-0048. ElementMessages.com.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Meditation Retreat for Everyday Life – Feb 28-Mar 16. A 2-wk group mindfulness-awareness meditation retreat. This retreat will explore our internal wisdom through mindfulness-awareness meditation, which increases our ability to stay present for our life. $970, plus accommodations. Karme Choling Meditation Center, 369 Patneaude Ln, Barnet. 802-633-2384. KarmeCholing.org. Power of a Loving Heart – Feb 28-Mar 1. A weekend intensive of kirtan and spiritual teachings with Krishna Das, Sharon Salzberg and Lama Surya Das Krishna Das. See website for details regarding event activities, locations and cost. 617559-6999. NewtonCommunityEd.org.
ongoingcalendar All Calendar events for the March issue must be received by February 10th and adhere to our guidelines. Visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. For extended event descriptions and additional listings, visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com.
daily Free Basic Yoga, Breathing, Relaxation and Meditation Class – Learn and experience practical tools for managing stress and energy in everyday life. All ages and levels welcome. Dahn Holistic Fitness, 1773 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge. For times & availability: 617-354-9642. DahnYoga.com. Free Tour of Symphony Hall – Join volunteers on a behind-the-scenes tour and hear about the hall and the history and traditions of the famed musicians and conductors. Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave, Boston. For available dates & times: 617-638-9390. BSO.org.
sunday SoWa Vintage Market – 10am-4pm. Designers, collectors, appreciators of the beautiful and unusual love this market. A cool, urban, vintage flea market featuring fresh vintage and designer finds every week. Free. SoWa Vintage Market, 460C Harrison Ave, Boston. SoWaVintageMarket.com. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – 3:30-4:30pm. A martial art, combat sport and a self-defense system. Students learn techniques that not only increase their physical fitness, but also challenge the mind. $100. SSOMA, 1100 Massachusetts Ave, 3rd Fl, Arlington. 781-6410262. SarahsSchool.com.
monday Therapeutic Qigong – 11:30am-12:30pm. Also 6:30-7:30pm. An ancient Chinese self-healing exercise which has been conducted for a wide variety of medical conditions, including diabetes, allergies, fatigue, anxiety, depression, menopause syndrome, headaches, joint stiffness, movement disorders and cancer treatment. $125/full month, $80/4 sessions, $25/drop-in. TS Center for
Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 617997-9922. ArlingtonQiWellness.com.
for $2. It’s the best cheap date in Boston. BostonFrogPond.com.
Yoga for Well Being – 2-3pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga for the mind, heart, body and energy in this class through gentle postures, breath, energy centering practices, compassionate self-awareness and inspiration. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as needed. $15/class. TS Center for Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 781-648-0101. TSBoston.org.
wednesday
Anxiety and Panic Support Group – 6:30pm. 1st Mon. Designed to offer a place where people with common interests and experience can meet. You are not alone in your experience, and knowledge is the key to living a symptom-free life. Free. Washington St, Newton. 617-849-3198. UCanBFearFree.com. Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Yoga – 7-8pm. 3rd Mon. Any age and any level of physical ability can enjoy this unique exercise of laughter and clapping combined with gentle breathing that brings oxygen to the body’s cells. Free. Unitarian Church of Sharon, 4 N Main St, Sharon. 508-660-2223. LetsLaughToday.com.
tuesday Practitioner’s Breakfast – 7:30-9am. 3rd Tues. Enjoy breakfast from Farm to Table Café. All healthcare practitioners are welcome to share breakfast and knowledge. Monthly speakers and presentations. Free. Groton Wellness, 493 Main St, Mill Run Plaza, Groton. 978-449-9919. GrotonWellness.com. Noon Concerts on the Freedom Trail – 12:15pm. Stop by to hear a 30-40-min concert. Performers vary each week and perform a wide variety of music ranging from jazz to folk, medieval to modern. $3 suggested donation. King’s Chapel, 64 Beacon St, Boston. 617-227-2155. Kings-Chapel.org. College Nights at Frog Pond – 6-9pm. Show your current college ID and get half-price admission
Natural Healing with Wisdom Qigong – 11:30am12:30pm. An ancient Chinese self-healing exercise typically involving moving meditation, coordinating slow flowing movement, deep rhythmic breathing and a calm meditative state of mind. $125/full month, $80/4 sessions, $25/drop-in. TS Center for Spiritual Studies, 21 Maple St, Arlington. 617-9979922. ArlingtonQiWellness.com. Museum of Fine Arts Free Wednesdays – 6-9pm. An opportunity to sketch from live models and/ or from objects in their collections. A drawing instructor provides insights on drawing technique and the artist-model relationship as it informs the creation of artwork. MFA, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston. 617-267-9300. MFA.org. Open Meditation Evenings – 7-8:30pm. Come to meditate and take part in a discussion. Both beginners and experienced meditators welcome. Light refreshments provided. Donation. Advaita Meditation Center, 28 Worcester Ln, Waltham. 781-647-0020. AdvaitaMeditation.org. Public Open Night at the Observatory – 7:308:30pm. A chance to come observe the night sky through telescopes and binoculars and see things you otherwise might not get to see. Held most Wed evenings throughout the year, weather permitting. Free. Coit Observatory at Boston University, 725 Commonwealth Ave, Boston. 617-353-2630. BU.edu.
thursday Gentle Kundalini Yoga with Gong Relaxation – 8:30-10am. Emphasis on breath work, meditation. Students given individual attention with modifications of yoga poses if needed. Relax
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with healing gong vibrations. $12/drop-in. Newton Highlands Congregational Church, 54 Lincoln St, Newton Highlands. 617-332-3675. Free 1st Treatment – 4-6:30pm. For the month of February, this new community clinic is offering free first-time acupuncture treatments. Joy Community Acupuncture, 335 Boylston St, Ste J3, Newton. 617-510-0559. JoyCommunityAcupuncture.com. Institute of Contemporary Art Free Thursdays – 5-9pm. Share the pleasures of reflection, inspiration, provocation and imagination that contemporary art offers through public access to art, artists and the creative process. Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave, Boston. ICABoston.org. Somerville Road Runners Night 4.13 Miler – 7:15-8:15pm. It may be raining. It may be hot or cold. The SRR Thursday night run will happen every week, no matter what. Free. Casey’s, 171 Broadway, Somerville. SRR.org/Events/ThursdayNight-Race. Observatory Night – 7:30-9:30pm. 3rd Thurs. A non-technical lecture and telescopic observing from the observatory roof if weather permits. Free. Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden St, Cambridge. 617-495-7461. CFA. Harvard.edu.
friday Find joy in everything you choose to do. Every job, relationship, home... it’s your responsibility to love it or change it. ~Chuck Palahniuk
Health Lecture Series – 10am. 1st Fri. An informative discussion for parents and caregivers on a variety of parent- and child-related topics such as nutrition, behavior, community resources and more. Held in the Old Country Buffet, Watertown Mall, 550 Arsenal St, Watertown. 617-926-4968. Watertown-Mall.com. Blood Pressure Screenings – 10am-12pm. Free blood pressure screenings on the 1st Fri each month in front of the Old Country Buffet. Watertown Mall, 550 Arsenal St, Watertown. 617-926-4968. Watertown-Mall.com. Second Fridays Free – 5-8pm. Free evening at the MIT Museum on the 2nd Fri each month. Mingle with friends in the unique galleries and see some of the latest research coming out of MIT. MIT Museum, 265 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge. 617-253-5927. MIT.edu/Museum.
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Glass Beadmaking – 6:30-9:30pm. Last Fri. An evening of glass, friends and wine. Spend 3 hrs in one of our studios to experience an introductory taste of working with hot glass in glassblowing and bead making. $75. Diablo Glass School, 123 Terrace St, Boston. 617-442-7444. DiabloGlassSchool.com. Reiki Clinic – 7-9pm. 1st Fri. Experience a Reiki session. Facilitate healing, promote mindfulness and support personal growth in a comforting and reassuring setting. 30-min time slots available; call to schedule. $10. Brenner Reiki Healing, 324 Central St, Newton. 617-244-8856. BrennerReikiHealing.com. Astronomy After Hours at the Museum of Science – 8:30-10pm. Weather permitting, visit the Gilliland Observatory on the roof of the Museum’s parking garage to view stars, planets, the Moon and other astronomical phenomena. Call to ensure program is running on any given Fri. Museum of Science Boston, Gilliland Observatory, 1 Science Park, Boston. 617-589-0267. MOS.org.
saturday Adult Shotokan – 7:45-9am. Introduction to Shotokan karate. $100. SSOMA, 1100 Massachusetts Ave, 3rd Fl, Arlington. 781-641-0262. SarahsSchool.com. Egleston Farmers’ Market – Thru Feb. 10am-2pm. Sharing delicious food and bringing people together. Come and enjoy this winter market featuring local, healthy food. The Urbano Project, 29 Germainia St, Jamaica Plain. EglestonFarmersMarket.org. Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Yoga – 11am-12pm. 2nd Sat. Any age and level of physical ability can enjoy this unique exercise of laughter and clapping combined with gentle breathing that brings more oxygen to the body’s cells. Free. Walpole Library, 143 School St, Walpole. 508-660-2223. LetsLaughToday.com. Glassblowing Sampler – 12-2pm. Every other Sat. Get a taste of the ancient art of glassblowing. Enjoy the excitement of playing with melted glass while making your very own souvenir. Learn how to gather glass from the furnace, and then control and shape it. $75. Diablo Glass School, 123 Terrace St, Boston. 617-442-7444. DiabloGlassSchool.com.
communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com to request our media kit.
ACTIVE ISOLATED STRETCHING THE A.I.S. INSTITUTE
103 Morse St, Watertown 617-905-3038 TheAISInstitute.com Specializing in Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) that works with the body’s natural physiological makeup to bolster flexibility, improve circulation and increase the elasticity of muscle joints and fascia. See ad page 7.
ACTIVE RELAXATION CENTER RAFFA YOGA’S URBAN SWEAT 19 Sharpe Dr, Cranston, RI 02902 401-463-3335 RaffaYoga.com
Experience New England’s only Active Relaxation Center. Raffa Yoga’s Urban Sweat features a Himalayan Salt Grotto, Yellow Turmeric Sauna, Black Charcoal Sauna, Eucalyptus Steam Room, Urban Hamman, Oceanic Dead Sea Salt Relaxation Room. The center also offers yoga, a wide variety of therapeutic treatments and nutrition packages, a breathe boutique and Raffa Raw; our cold-pressed and un-pasteurized, local and organic (when possible) juice bar. See ad page 22.
ACUPUNCTURE SEETAL CHEEMA, MD
697 Cambridge St, Ste 204, Brighton 2285 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge 617-651-3213 Seetal@SeetalCheema.com SeetalCheema.com Seetal Cheema is a boardcertified physician in anesthesia and pain management, offering holistic medical care, including acupuncture and yoga.
RACHEL FRENCH, MAOM
BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE TREATMENT
910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com
CONNIE A. JACKSON, MD
With a master’s degree in acupuncture and a gentle approach to healing, Rachel provides relief for insomnia, pain, indigestion, fatigue, emotional and menstrual concerns, and more. See ad on back cover.
ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTRE 383 Elliot St, Door F, Ste 250 617-964-3332 WellAdjusted.com
Acupuncture Facelift / Facial Rejuvenation / Cosmetic Acupuncture is a painless, non-surgical method of reducing the signs of the aging process. The aim is to diminish wrinkles, muscle tension, as well as systematically remove issues standing between you and the glowing young face you deserve. Traditional Acupuncture also available. See ad page 9.
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY CENTRAL SQUARE HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Kristine Jelstrup, LMT, CBK 126 Prospect St, Ste 5, Cambridge, 02139 617-833-3407 Kristine@CentralSquareHealthAnd Wellness.com CentralSquareHealthAndWellness.com Achieve optimal health, physically, emotionally, nutritionally. Kristine works with the innate wisdom of the body to clear nervous system interference, creating a balanced body. See ad page 19.
55 Pond Ave, Brookline, MA 02445 132 Great Rd, Ste 201, Stow, MA 01775 617-232-0202 (Brookline) 617-879-0403 (Stow) Connie.A.Jackson.MD@gmail.com ConnieAJacksonMD.com Specializing in Hormonal Imbalance and Individualized Natural Bioidentical Hormone Treatment for irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, night sweats, low sex drive, irritability, fatigue, poor concentration, poor memory, depression and sleep disturbances. Accepting most major insurances.
PATRICIA JAY, MD
100 Second Ave, Needham, MA 02494 910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com Effectively using Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for 10 years; expert gynecologist passionate about supporting women to ease transition through all life phases. Accepts most major insurances. See ad on back cover.
BODYWORK BARBARA GOSSELIN, PT
393 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA 781-507-4226 HolisticHealingPT.com I’m a Physical Therapist with 20+ years experience helping people recover from pain using gentle, effective Bodywork techniques including Craniosacral Therapy and Fascial Mobilization. See ad page 25.
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NUANCE BODYWORK
Rezakkah Norins 22 Mount Auburn St, Watertown 02472 617-254-4088 MassageByRezakkah.com
ERIC ROSEEN, DC
910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com Patient-centered, evidence-based spinal care and soft tissue work to decrease pain and improve mobility. Experienced with athletes; ART & Graston® Certified. Accepts insurance. See ad on back cover.
Massage therapy and personal training for seniors. 25 years of experience providing integrative bodywork for pain relief, injury rehabilitation, alignment and ease of movement. Developing a positive relationship with your body, and fine-tuning your health maintenance program. Specializing in oncology massage and neck and shoulders relief.
BRAIN TRAINING ADVANCED NEUROTHERAPY, PC Jolene Ross, PhD 781-444-9115 RetrainYourBain.com
Specializing in Neurotherapy, an effective, drug-free treatment for: attention, behavior, emotional, and executive function problems, autistic spectrum, anxiety, depression, post concussion, peak performance and more. See ad page 6.
CHIROPRACTIC CEDAR CHIROPRACTIC & SPORTS Binh Nguyen 508-435-8182 CedarChiroSports.com
A state-of-the-art facility offering highest quality health care and commitment to patients. Offering a unique sports chiropractic wellness practice with a family-style focus. See ad page 38.
NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTRE Julie Burke, DC 617-964-3332 Info@WellAdjusted.com
COACHING BRIAN SEAN REID
Life Coach, Personal/Professional Development 401-402-0819 Brian@BrianSeanReid.com BrianSeanReid.com Get the support and tools you need to connect with your true nature, get in line with your personal HorsePower and transport your life and/or business toward what matters to you. Brian’s down-to-Earth and effective no nonsense approach has created a shift for many local and international entrepreneurs, coaches and facilitators through his 1-1 trainings, webinars, seminars and speeches. See ad page 9.
TAKE THE LEAP COACHING
Kim Childs 1025 Mass Ave, Arlington, MA 02476 617-640-3813 Kim@KimChilds.com KimChilds.com Need help clarifying and reaching your goals? Asking “What’s next?” or “What do I really want?” Kim is a Certified Positive Psychology Life, Career and Wellness Coach and facilitator of The Artist’s Way, helping people to cultivate more personally rewarding lives. Initial consultations are free.
THE MIRACULOUS SPRING Gayle Johnson 774-264-9492 TheMiraculousSpring.com
We are an integrative holistic center, with a caring team of Network Spinal Analysis chiropractors, massage therapists, Shiatsu and Reiki practitioners and a Wellness Coach. See ad page 9.
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With Gayle’s 20 years of training and experience in psycho-spiritual development, she invites you to participate in a journey of great learning, transformation and love. See ad page 15.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY INTERNAL WELLNESS CENTER
Liz Marcano-Pucillo 640 Washington St, Dedham, MA 02026 781-329-3800 Liz@InternalWellnessCtr.com InternalWellnessCtr.com Receive professional colon hydrotherapy by a national board-certified therapist using the Angel of Water system. The most comfortable and private system in the industry. See ad page 37.
COMPOUNDING & WELLNESS PHARMACY JOHNSON COMPOUNDING AND WELLNESS
Stephen Bernardi 577 Main St, Waltham, MA 02452 781-893-3870 Fax: 781-899-1172 Steve@NaturalCompounder.com NaturalCompounder.com JCW is the only sterile and non-sterile PCABaccredited pharmacy in Massachusetts. In addition to our compounding service, we offer a full range of nutritional supplements, natural products, homeopathic remedies and home health care equipment. See ads pages 2 and 11.
DENTIST DR. IVETA IONTCHEVA-BAREHMI DMD, MS, D.SC.
1842 Beacon St, Ste 305, Brookline, MA 617-868-1516 BostonDentalWellness.com Dr. Iontcheva-Barehmi is an accomplished dentist and specialist in Periodontics and Implants with a holistic approach to medicine and dentistry. To schedule your comprehensive exam and share the excitement of a healthy smile, call: 617-868-1516. See ad page 13.
GROTON WELLNESS – MEDICAL, DENTAL, SPA, FARM TO TABLE CAFÉ
EXERCISE/FITNESS/ PERSONAL TRAINING
493-495 Main St, Groton, MA 01450 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com
KOKO FITCLUB
The only holistic center of its kind on the East Coast. Groton Wellness synergistically fuses state-of-the-art Biological Dentistry with Integrative Medicine to meet the health needs of the whole person. We are professionals in preventative and functional medicine, general and pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, detoxification, spa therapy, nutrition and a host of complementary therapies. We work with you to develop a personal, comprehensive plan that achieves wellness and balance from head to toe. This is our mission. See ads pages 2 and 12.
World’s first automated personal training studio offering highly effective, efficient, customized workouts guided and monitored by the proprietary Smartraining technology in a spa-like setting. See ad page 28.
39 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02445 77 Spring St, Shaw’s Plaza, West Roxbury, MA 02132 Brookline: 617-566-5656 West Roxbury: 617-325-4800 MA.Brookline@KokoFitClub.com MA.WRoxbury@KokoFitClub.com KokoFitClub.com
We Hold Your Well-Being In Highest Regard
GYNECOLOGY
NEWTON DENTAL WELLNESS 93 Union St, Ste 408 Newton Center, MA 617-244-4997 NewtonDW.com
MITCHELL LEVINE, MD
We are the healing dentist. We take a holistic approach to general and pediatric dentistry. We make it easy to see a dentist. New patients receive free comprehensive exam and full set of X-rays. Blog at TheHealingDentist.info.
100 Second Ave, Needham, MA 02494 910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com In practice for over 32 years, Dr. Levine has been a prominent advocate for holistic and gentler approaches to women’s health care. Provides alternatives to hysterectomy. See ad on the back cover.
ENERGY HEALING ADITI HEALING ARTS
Anna Clayton Anna.EnergyHealer@gmail.com AditiHealing.com
HEAD LICE TREATMENT
Therapeutic Energy Healing with Mother’s Milk Divine Mother Energy to awaken you out of your issues and empower you to connect to the Divine within. See ad page 19.
NITWITS, LLC
All-Natural Lice Removal Salon 617-816-9487 LiceInfo.net Boston’s premier professional head lice treatment salon. Pesticide-free, non-toxic. Founded by school nurse Berit Pratt, RN BSN MPH, since 2004. Peace of mind for frantic families.
Cure ailing sales by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ March Animal Welfare Issue
We’ve got this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You can’t just accept it and leave it in the cupboard or just think it’s going to get on by itself. You’ve got to keep watering it. You’ve got to really look after it and nurture it.
To advertise or participate in our next issue, call
~ John Lennon
617-906-0232 natural awakenings
February 2015
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HERBAL STUDIES THE BOSTON SCHOOL OF HERBAL STUDIES
12 Pelham Terrace, Arlington, MA 781-646-6319 BostonHerbalStudies.com We offer two Herbal Apprenticeship Programs, Advanced Training, Aromatherapy Certification and a series of Thursday evening and Saturday afternoon classes. Please visit our website. See ad page 28.
INTEGRATIVE/FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE RACHEL KATZ, MD, RD 100 Second Ave Needham, MA 02494 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com
You Matter. We Care. Board Certified Family Medicine Physician practices with the Functional Medicine approach. Accepting new patients for Primary Care or Consultation. Accepts insurance. See ad on the back cover.
COMMONWEALTH CENTER FOR HOLISTIC HERBALISM Katja Swift & Ryn Midura 25 Saint Mary’s Court, Brookline, MA 617-750-5274 CommonWealthHerbs.com
Personalized, comprehensive consultations with experienced herbalists. Whether it’s the flu or a chronic illness, or simply to build greater vitality, herbal medicine can help. See ad page 38.
INTEGRATIVE THERAPY MARSHA KLEIN, LMHC
910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com Licensed Mental Health Clinician and Behavioral Health Specialist with over 15 years of experience; integrative approach. Specialties: anxiety, panic, depression, stress, anger, etc. Accepts insurance. See ad on the back cover.
HOME-BASED BUSINESS SUZANNE CAMYRE
978-712-8011 Info@TeamNorthrupNE.com TeamNorthrupNE.com As your lifestyle advocate, I’ll facilitate your success in building your own health and wellness business so you can take control of your life. See ad page 31.
INTEGRATIVE VETERINARY MEDICAL CARE MASH MAIN ST ANIMAL SERVICES OF HOPKINTON Margo Roman, DVM 72 W Main St, Hopkinton, MA 01748 508-435-4077 MASHVet.com
A full-service integrative veterinary clinic offering caring and healthful options and modalities like acupuncture, functional nutrition, homeopathy, chiropractic, herbs, ozone therapy, surgery and dentistry. See ad page 32.
HYDROPONICS TOWER GARDEN
Bob and Lolli Leeson FarmerBob.TowerGarden@gmail.com Lees-onLife.com Lees-on Life inspires healthy living with the Tower Garden, offering solutions to families who struggle to eat better. Improving quality of life, one family at a time.
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MARTIAL ARTS SSOMA
Sarah’s School Of Martial Arts 781-641-0262 SarahsSchool.com
Boston | NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com
We train our body to be strong, our mind and spirit to be patient, in order to become the best human beings we can be. See ad page 25.
MASSAGE NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTRE 383 Elliot St, Ste 250 617-964-3332 WellAdjusted.com
Deep-tissue, medical, sports, Swedish and therapeutic massage, shiatsu, Reiki & HydroMassage in a full-service Wellness Center also featuring chiropractic, acupuncture, Facial Rejuvenation, Facelift Acupuncture and detox footbath. See ad page 9.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA INTEGR8 HEALTH MASSACHUSETTS
101 Cambridge St, Burlington 781-328-4488 Integr8Mass.com A high-quality, compassionate integrative healthcare practice specializing in medical marijuana and other proven alternative treatments that address a patients entire body, mind and spirit. See ad page 6.
MIND-BODY MEDICINE BODYMIND RESOURCING
Alison Shaw APRN, LMT, CEH 393 Massachusetts Ave Arlington, MA 02474 781-646-0686 Alison@BodymindResourcing.org An innovative blend of body-centered counseling, integrative bodywork and energy medicine to uncover and release body-mind patterns that limit your life and health. See ad page 15.
BOSTON BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE 1371 Beacon St, Ste 304-305 Brookline, MA 02446 617-232-2435 Ext 0 BostonBMed.com
Boston Behavioral Medicine promotes a holistic view of health using integrative mindbody psychotherapy, stress management, and nutritional services, and strives for the balance of mental, physical, social and spiritual well-being.
NATURAL MEDICINE GARY KRACOFF, RPH & NMD
Johnson Compounding and Wellness 781-893-3870 Gary@NaturalCompounder.com Dr. Gary Kracoff provides guidance and in-depth consultative services to find the “why” to what is happening physically and mentally, working with individuals to restore balance in the body. Specializes in customizing medications to meet individualized needs of patients, and he suggests nutritional supplements, natural products and homeopathic remedies to aid in faster healing and recovery See ads pages 2 and 11.
NATURAL NAIL & SKIN CARE ATIR NATURAL NAIL & SKIN CARE 115 Great Rd, Acton, MA 01720 978-263-1080 AtirNaturalNailCare.com
We challenge the nail industry to a higher standard and provide detailed maintenance of your hands and feet in a positive, relaxing and clean atmosphere. See ad page 7.
REFLEXOLOGY
YOGA
INBAR ISRAEL STOLOVICKI
ALAINE AMARAL, BFA, RYT
910 Washington St (Rte 1A) Dedham, MA 02026 100 Second Ave, Needham, MA 02494 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com
910 Washington St Dedham, MA 02026 781-431-1333 VisionsHealthCare.com
Based off the body’s natural reflexes, reflexology is a non-invasive healing treatment that works through contact with the feet yet supports healing throughout. All ages. See ad on back cover.
SENSORY DEPRIVATION CRYSTALLINE/AWAKEN Boylston 508-612-7488 CrystallineAwaken.co
Escape to what has been named the most magical destination on the planet: Become one with all that is! Floatation, Polarity, Hypnosis. See ad page 15.
COLEMAN NATURAL VISION IMPROVEMENT
Ree Coleman - Certified Vision Teacher Offices in Boston & Newton 617-838-0928 EyesOnYoga.com Achieve vision improvement via exercises, relaxation, science & physiology to create a pathway to sharper, clearer, more balanced vision, reducing dependence on external correction.
CECILE RAYNOR
Certified Alexander Technique Teacher; Certified Thai Yoga Therapist 33A Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02445 617-359-7841 OffTheMatYogaBlog.com Your yoga can release or create tension depending on the quality of your daily movements. Learn to let your postural mechanism work for you and notice excess body tension ease away on-and-off the mat.
GENTLE KUNDALINI YOGA WITH GONG RELAXATION
THERMOGRAPHY NATURAL VISION IMPROVEMENT
Integrative Yoga Therapy is a highly individualized, self-empowering process that connects healthcare with yoga. Heal from chronic pain or illness. Individual & group offerings. See ad on the back cover.
METROWEST THERMAL IMAGING
Susan Shaw Saari, Lic.Ac., CCT, MEd, MAOM, Diplomate in Acupuncture (NCCAOM) 781-899-2121 Sue@Thpclinic.com MyThermography.com A clinical imaging technique that records thermal patterns of the body to help diagnose and monitor pain or pathology in any part of the body. See ad page 25.
Marian Reynolds Certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher Newton Highlands Congregational Church 54 Lincoln St, Newton Highlands, MA 617-733-2311 MarianaTR@verizon.net
Gentle classes with emphasis on meditation and breath work. Students receive individual attention with modifications as needed. Relax with healing gong vibrations.
Reach Your Target Market Secure this ad spot!
Contact us at 617-906-0232 for special one-time ad rates.
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