E E HEALTHY LIVING FR
HEALTHY
PLANET
Healthy Holiday Treats The Merry Vegan
How Giving Transforms Us The Generous Heart
AWAKENING TO THE EVOLUTION OFTheCOMMUNITY Emerging Power of 'We' December 2019 | Boston | NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com
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December 2019
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publisher's blog
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ur feature story this month, “The Emerging Power of ‘We’, Awakening to the Evolution of Community,” by Linda Sechrist, prompted me to reflect on the role community has played in my life. Coming from a large family in a rather small home, with one bathroom and an open-door policy to friends and family of all ages, just being home felt like being in a community. With a kitchen table that doubled for a cafeteria table and the girl’s bedroom with five beds and sometimes sleeping bags in between, one was never alone. My first real sense of community, outside of home, came when my dad and a sibling started visiting a different church than the one mom preferred. Eventually, mom followed with the rest of us in tow and we began diving deeply into a newly formed Christian community. This community was much different than what we’d been previously exposed to in that the sense of community was intimate with deep roots. Our family firmly rooted quickly. Sunday morning services eventually expanded into Sunday School and evening services with weekly Bible study groups and prayer meetings. It was a healthy and very happy community for me during those days. In my young adulthood, I began straying from that community and found myself lacking any kind of spiritual community for over 30 years. Though I rarely get to see the folks from those days except for special occasions and funerals, it’s always just as though we were together yesterday. In those moments, the sense of intimacy with that community returns. Thankfully, I’ve found my way back to spiritual community with the Centers for Spiritual Living with my base being Concordia CSL, in Rhode Island, near my home. My experience at finding this new community was very similar to the first—another warm and welcoming place where I immediately felt at home. It’s been three years this month and my roots are firmly planted and growing, surrounded by lots of healthy, wellfertilized soil, rich with positivity and potentiality that my psyche is absorbing. The feature and thinking about community inspired me to act on creating an intentional community for Natural Awakenings readers within the Insight Timer IOS/ Android App. It’s something I’ve thought about since I first learned of the app a few months ago. There’s no better time than now to share it with you as we launch. Insight Timer is a free meditation app with over 30,000 free meditations as well as paid options for classes and additional features. One of my favorite aspects of this app is that I can see who and how many people around the world I am meditating with in real-time. This feeling of global connectivity is very powerful, which is why I created a space for us to come together locally online as well. If you’d like to participate, join in or learn more, visit NABoston.com/pages/joinour-email-list. Add your name to the Insight Timer email list and we’ll send you an invitation to the group. Alternatively, you may download the app at iTunes or Google Play and search for Natural Awakenings Greater Boston Community. I hope you join me. With hopes for each one to find the perfect community within which to thrive. Peace,
Maisie
HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET
BOSTON EDITION PUBLISHER Maisie Raftery MANAGING EDITOR Nancy Somera DESIGN & PRODUCTION Courtney Ayers Zina Cochran DIR. DIGITAL MARKETING Kristy Mayer PROOFREADER Randy Kambic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marlaina Donato Wendy Fachon Kajsa Nickels Julie Peterson Linda Sechrist Cindy Ricardo
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NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman COO/ FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2019 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. 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. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.
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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.
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Contents
14 THE INDOOR OASIS A Relaxation and Wellness Spa
16 NATURAL AWAKENINGS
19
2019 GIFT GUIDE
18 JOHNSON COMPOUNDING
AND WELLNESS
Personalized Medicine for Autoimmune Treatment
19 REDUCE SIGNS OF AGING Non-Surgical Face Lifts at STEMsential
20 THE EMERGING POWER OF ‘WE’
26
Awakening to the Evolution of Community
22 THE GENEROUS HEART How Giving Transforms Us
23 THE JOURNEY TO PARENTHOOD
Perinatal Wellness Addresses Needs Along the Way
25 SURGEON MARY NEAL
30
On Lessons From Heaven
26 THE MERRY VEGAN ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS 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.
People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets
28 INHALING THE JOY OF LIFE
Conscious Breathwork
30 PERFECT PET PRESENTS Safe and Eco-Smart Toys
DEPARTMENTS 6 news briefs 9 health briefs 10 global briefs 12 eco tip 13 book news 14 & 18 business
spotlights 19 therapy spotlight
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22 inspiration 25 wise words 26 conscious
eating 28 fit body 30 natural pet 31 calendar 33 classifieds 35 resource guide December 2019
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Be sure to visit our website, naturalawakenings boston.com for this month's online exclusive articles: healing ways BEYOND CALCIUM Full-Spectrum Bone Health Our bones are the foundation that supports our bodies and the quality of our lives. Unlike the brick and mortar and bedrock of a building, the human skeletal system is living tissue that breaks down and rebuilds; this constant remodeling demands much more than just ...
green living Waste-Free Feasting How to Reduce Holiday Food Waste The heaping platters that cheerfully mark the holidays have an unfortunate downside: Americans increase their waste by 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The discarded food and packaging burden ...
news briefs
Free Events at Life Gate Holistic Living Center
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ffering support to community members on their individual journeys to parenthood, Life Gate Holistic Living Center, in Groton, is offering several free events this month, including The Healing Power of Forgiveness on December 5, Healthy Eating Through the Holidays on December 10, and Meet the Doulas Open House on December 15. Plus, each Monday, the center offers a Drop-In Parent Group from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. focusing on a different topic each week. These complimentary events help create personal transformation with services that address infertility, menstrual problems, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, labor and delivery and postpartum. “We know that the journey toward and through parenthood is complex, emotional and challenging,” says Amy Kinne, integrative nutrition health coach at Life Gate. “Our goal is to create a safe space where individuals can come to find the information and services that they need.” Location: 66 Boston Rd., Groton. For more information on each event, call 978-448-0405 or visit LifeGateLiving.com. See Resource Guide on page 38.
Intuitive Art Comes to Boston Area
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hrough monthly classes in Peabody, local certified intuitive artist Carolyn Michelman offers an easy way of having a two-way conversation with our higher self through color. This method helps people to trust their intuition and to turn it into a rich language, as opposed to vague yes or no feelings. No art or intuitive experience is necessary to get clarity with this technique. In an easy, three-step process that includes drawing with one’s eyes closed, Michelman helps individuals discover their unique color meanings so they can decode messages from their higher self. Carolyn Michelman This method was created more than 25 years ago and has been taught to thousands of people all over the world. Everyone from engineers to artists use it to get deeper insight into their inner emotional landscape and to make decisions about moving or taking a new job. Intuitive art gives people the clarity to know their truth and the confidence to live it. Cost: Sessions start at $50. For more information, call 978-490-4410, email Rachel@ Sephyrus.com or visit IntuitiveArt.com.
Clean Energy Forum Prepares for Climate Future
Read these stories and more at NABoston.com 6
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oin the Metropolitan Area Planning Council from 8 a.m. to noon, December 11, at District Hall, for its Clean Energy Forum on climate equity, part of the MetroCommon 2050 Speaker Series. To preserve communities and create opportunity for future generations, carbon emissions must be eliminated, and our cities and towns must become greener. The Forum will dig into how to align these critical needs for mutual benefit. A light breakfast and beverages will be served. Location: 75 Northern Ave., Boston. Learn more about MetroCommon 2050, Greater Boston’s next regional plan, at MetroCommon.mapc.org.
news briefs
Mindfulness Workshops for Parents, Teachers and Caregivers
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vy Child, in partnership with the Center for Parents and Teachers, welcomes all parents, educators and other caregivers in the Concord-Carlisle and surrounding areas to take part in a series of eight, free, 90-minute mindfulness workshops. The first will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m., December 11, at the Concord-Carlisle High School. These workshops have been customized to address the needs and challenges of attendees. Caregivers will learn practical mindfulness tools and skills to enhance their well-being and to benefit their own children and/or the youth they serve. Workshops will address topics such as self-care, stress and anxiety, mindful communication, mindfulness and technology, mindful eating and other themes relevant for the community. Sessions will combine (but are not limited to) mindful movement with guided meditation, breathing exercises, partner/group activities and discussion and other mindfulness exercises. Classes will provide a safe, open and interactive environment for self-reflection and engagement with other caregivers. Attendees will also receive online and printable mindfulness resources and tangible tools for use at home, on-the-go or at work that can be used to support children and youth as well.
FREE
WORKSHOP Saturday, Dec. 14 3:30pm - 4:30pm Tuesday, Jan. 7 7:15pm - 8:15pm RSVP REQUIRED
617-964-3332
Cost: Free and open to the public. Location: 500 Walden St., Concord. For more information, call 617-279-2444 x2. Pre-register at Tinyurl.com/MindfulnessForCaregivers.
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December 2019
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news briefs
Winter Solstice Sound Healing Meditation
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riscilla Gale of Sacred Song Reiki will lead a Winter Solstice Sound Healing Meditation from 2 to 3:30 p.m., December 22, at Earth’s Hidden Treasures, in Assonet. The Winter Solstice is the longest night of the year; a sacred time for celebration and reflection. This time of darkness is also the time of greatest hope. We feel the teachings of completion, ourselves transformed and reborn as we call back the sun and emerge into the light of a new season and new year. Clinical studies have shown that the sweet songs of the gongs and Himalayan singing bowls enter the body in targeted ways to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, boost the immune system, restore feelings of well-being, and release stress along with creating feelings of peace, joy, confidence, purpose, more energy and clarity of thought. Cost: $35. Location: Earth’s Hidden Treasures, 63 South Main St., Assonet. For more information, call 508-644-7398 or visit SacredSongReiki.com. See Resource Guide on page 39.
New Location Opening for Tai Chi Acupuncture & Wellness Center
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ith wellness centers in Medford, North Reading and now Danvers, Tai Chi Acupuncture offers acupuncture, massage, yoga, tai chi, Traditional Chinese Medicine and holds various classes and workshops each month. The Danvers location at 2 Orchard Lane, Unit A, will be primarily offering acupuncture for the time being. While acupuncture is widely known to relieve pain, it is also helpful for many conditions in which pain is not primary, including a wide variety of chronic conditions such as pain relief, migraines, fertility, scoliosis, sciatica and stress/anxiety. It can be used for almost any physical or emotional problem, or simply the desire to stay well. For more information, call 978-777-1888 or visit TaiChi-Wellness.com.
Market Test KITCHEN Demos and Tastings
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top by the Market Test KITCHEN from noon to 1 p.m. on various Fridays each month to sample new products and ideas from Boston Public Market vendors and other local artisans. In each session, participants will observe a demonstration of new recipes and seasonally available products. On December 6, Q’s Nuts from the BPM will demonstrate how to use their seasonal roasted nuts to create delicious apple crumble, perfect for holiday entertaining. Then learn about the health benefits of eating a plant-based diet with nutrition educator Adriana Gambino on December 20. Gambino will teach patrons how to make delicious, easy-to-prepare and budget-friendly recipes. The KITCHEN is a community gathering place that is restoring the craft of seasonal cooking in Massachusetts, New England and beyond through hands-on classes and educational experiences that celebrate the farmers and artisans of this region. Partnered with the Boston Public Market, The KITCHEN embraces a whole-food approach to eating and promotes cooking as an essential cornerstone of a sustainable food system. Cost: Free. Location: 100 Hanover St., Boston. For more information and to RSVP, visit Tinyurl.com/td9uf4z.
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health briefs
Eat Mushrooms to Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer Researchers followed more than 36,000 Japanese men older than 40 for an average of 13.2 years. They found that those that consumed culinary mushrooms three times a week had a 17 percent lower chance of developing prostate cancer compared to those that ate mushrooms less than once a week. Participants that ate mushrooms once or twice a week had an 8 percent lower risk. The trend was even greater for those men over the age of 50 and was unrelated to other dietary habits.
Reduce Blood Pressure and Heart Attacks With Better Gut Bacteria New research offers potential paths for treatment for the nearly 20 percent of patients with high blood pressure that don’t respond well to medications. University of Florida College of Medicine researchers, testing 105 volunteers, found that the populations of gut bacteria differed between hypertensive individuals with depression and those without depression. A second study by Italian researchers found that patients with heart attacks had different bacteria in their guts than patients with stable angina.
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Eat Nuts to Reduce Odds of Death From Heart Disease Adults that ate nuts two or more times per week had a 17 percent lower risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke, reports an Iranian study that followed 5,432 adults for 12 years. The research was presented in August at the European Society of Cardiology. “Nuts are a good source of unsaturated fat and contain little saturated fat,” says study author Dr. Noushin Mohammadifard, of the Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute. “They also have protein, minerals, vitamins, fiber, phytosterols and polyphenols which benefit heart health.” Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
Train Students in Mindfulness to Reduce Stress and Improve Grades Sixth-graders that received mindfulness training each day for eight weeks experienced lower stress levels, less depression and improved academic performance compared to their peers in a control group that studied computer coding, report Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers. In addition to that 100-student study, researchers surveyed 2,000 students in grades five through eight and found those that showed more mindfulness tended to have better grades and test scores. They also had fewer absences and suspensions. December 2019
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global briefs
Lung Relief
A 2016 study at the University of British Columbia revealed that air pollution is the fourth-leading cause of death worldwide, with at least 5.5 million air pollution-related fatalities every year. A new cultivation system developed by researchers from Imperial College London collaborating with the startup Arborea have created the world’s first Biosolar Leaf technology to purify and improve the air in London. They hope it’ll boost environmental outcomes not only in the UK, but all over the world. The process works by purifying the air through photosynthesis of microscopic plants, which removes the greenhouse gases from the environment and generates breathable oxygen at the same time. The startup’s innovative cultivation system can facilitate the growth of microalgae, phytoplankton and diatoms on large, solar panel-like structures that can be installed on buildings and other infrastructure to improve the quality of the atmosphere. Arborea’s cultivation system also creates a sustainable source of organic biomass from which nutritious food additives can be extracted for plant-based food.
Repurposing Weeds
Pond Plants Offer Protein Strategy
Fast-growing lemna, or duckweed, a flowering green plant that blooms on the surface of still and slow-moving bodies of water that is often mistaken for algae, is finding new utility as a protein source. California-based Plantible Foods claims that duckweed, traditionally the enemy of pond owners, is superior to other alternative proteins like pea, wheat and soy. The unusual crop naturally contains higher amounts of the complete protein RuBisCo and is easier to digest than some other popular plant proteins. It can be used as a substitute for egg white, is free of the top eight allergens and has a neutral color and taste. Due to its rapid growth, duckweed is less vulnerable to climate change. Plantible Foods co-founder Tony Martens says that duckweed grows reliably and can typically be harvested daily, no matter what the weather may be. 10
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Biosolar Leaf Purifies Air in London
Nature Cure
global briefs
Lab Steak
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Making Meat Without Animals
Five major food technology companies have converged to form the Alliance for Meat, Poultry and Seafood (AMPS) Innovation, which seeks to create real meat from animal cells without the need to slaughter animals. The founding members of the coalition are both cell-based seafood companies BlueNalu and Finless Foods and meat makers Fork & Goode, San Francisco-based JUST Inc., and Memphis Meats. AMPS Innovation (ampsinnovation.org) intends to tackle obstacles presented in the cellular agriculture industry and bring products to the consumer faster with transparency and proper regulatory frameworks for cell-based products. Each member company has made significant strides in the development of these products with the hope they will soon be options in the everyday diets of individuals, as well as a nutrition source for a human population projected to grow to 10 billion by 2050.
Forests and Shrubs Lower Medical Costs
A new study based on the National Land Cover Database of 3,086 of the 3,103 counties in the continental U.S. published in the journal Urban Forestry and Urban Greening found that increases in forest and shrub cover corresponded to decreases in Medicare health care spending, even when accounting for economic, geographic or other factors that might independently influence healthcare costs. Urban and rural counties with the lowest socioeconomic status appeared to benefit the most from increases in forests and shrubs. University of Illinois graduate student Douglas A. Becker, who led the new research with Matt Browning, a professor of recreation, sports and tourism, says, “It occurred to me that low-income communities are getting the biggest bang for their buck because they probably have the most to gain.� Other studies have shown that people in intensive care units recover more quickly and have fewer complications after surgery if their hospital rooms look out over trees rather than parking lots and that forest walks can influence potentially health-promoting hormone levels or anti-cancer immune cells in the blood.
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December 2019
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Burn Notice
Safe and Sustainable Fireplace Practices
One of the charms of winter is enjoying the warmth and glow of indoor fireplaces and wood stoves. It also emphasizes the need for sustainable, safe and healthy practices—especially when it comes to maintaining air quality. Try to buy wood from providers that use good forest management practices such as harvesting during sustainable months, reports WoodHeat.org. Environmentally sound woodlot operations include thinning out dying, less desirable and damaged trees, and including a blend of species. “Have a high-efficiency, properly installed stove that meets local building codes that’s sized for the area to be heated,” says Brad Harr, senior environmental scientist and president of Summit Environmental Inc., in Boise, Idaho. “Use dry, 10 to 12 percent wood moisture. Water sucks up heat to get to combustion temperature. Run at
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high heat, generally over 1,000° F in the firebox, to effect complete combustion of the wood and gases.” Denser woods such as ironwood, rock elm, hickory, oak and sugar maple burn longer and conserve resources. Use a higher British thermal unit (BTU) per cord of wood to maximize heat production. (WorldForestIndustries.com has tips per region.) Harr adds, “Don’t starve the fire to extend burning time, as smoldering can cause incomplete combustion.” This leads to more carbon monoxide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) being released that can cause flu-like symptoms, and at high levels, unconsciousness and even death. To help maintain proper airflow and prevent soot buildup, shovel excess ash into a covered metal container, store it outside and dispose of it in a few days. Smelling smoke can indicate the fireplace may be backdrafting and needs to be inspected. Harr also suggests checking periodically for potential cracks or rusting in the joints of a stovepipe. Make sure children and the elderly don’t accidentally touch the stove while in use and keep furniture a suitable distance away. Periodic inspections by a professional can address potentially dangerous creosote (tar deposit) accumulations, assure the catalytic converter is operating correctly and detect trapped debris in escape shafts that can force toxic gases back into the home and clog spark-arresting screens on tops of stovepipes or chimneys. If buying a new unit, make sure it’s U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-certified, which requires two-thirds less wood to generate heat and emits fewer harmful particles—two to seven grams per hour—compared with 15 to 30 grams for models manufactured before 1992, according to MotherEarthLiving.com.
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eco tip
book news
Move into Your Magnificence Book Release
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t age 68, Dr. Bary Fleet went from being the athlete nobody wanted in gym class to the athlete everybody wants to be like. That year, Fleet—who had been told he wasn’t good at anything—ran his first triathlon. He went on to be invited by the U.S. Triathlon Association to try out to represent our country in the World Championships in Rotterdam. That same year, he celebrated his 70th birthday at Fenway
Park by completing a Spartan Trifecta. In Move into Your Magnificence, Fleet, who is an inspirational speaker and certified Canfield Success Coach, offers a glimpse into what led to his own transformation and shares 101 humorous, serious and thought-provoking short observations on life. Each observation is followed by an invitation to action—and a guarantee that if you accept his invitation, you’ll discover your own life of passion, purpose and joy. Says Jack Canfield, author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series and The Success Principles, “I see these as one-a-day spiritual/psychological vitamins. When people accept his invitations, a transformation occurs. Read this book! This guy has a lot of wisdom to share with you. He’s the real deal!” Cost: $17.95. To purchase the book, visit Amazon.com.
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December 2019
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business spotlight
improving circulation, energy levels and mental acuity. The tranquil experience helps the brain power down and reboot, enhancing focus and creativity.
Infrared Sauna
This treatment uses light to create heat. The Indoor Oasis infrared sauna heats the body into the core, yet the room is generally 30 to 70 degrees lower than traditional saunas. Saunas cause vigorous sweating and increased heart rate, helping the body burn calories and detoxify. With infrared sauna technology, individuals can experience increased circulation, weight loss, normalized blood pressure, improved sleep and pain relief. The appeal of an infrared sauna is that it accomplishes all this at a lower, more tolerable temperature. In total, infrared sauna treatments can reduce both physical and mental stress to promote overall wellness.
Halotherapy
The Indoor Oasis A Relaxation and Wellness Spa by Wendy Fachon
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he owners of Newton Chiropractic and Wellness Centre (NCWC) have opened a new, complementary wellness spa, The Indoor Oasis, to help clients relax the mind, de-stress the body and boost recovery. Conveniently located adjacent to NCWC, the spa’s separate, brand-new, 3,000-square-foot space features four cutting-edge therapies—float therapy, infrared sauna, halotherapy and 4D massage—to help with relaxation, stress management, optimal breathing and improved health. Holiday stress and cold dry winter weather can adversely affect our health, making this the perfect time of year to explore these new services, which can be self-administered once educated on the basics.
Float Therapy
Float therapy is a luxurious way to relax and heal in a peaceful setting, away from the noise and confusion of life’s constant pressures. Also known as restricted environmental stimulation technique 14
(R.E.S.T.), a scientifically based, deep relaxation technique, each float session is a private escape that allows for the experience of weightlessness in a zero-gravity environment. Located in a private room with a shower and amenities, The Indoor Oasis tank is soundproof, yet spacious and well ventilated, using the most advanced filtration system available with a combination of ozone, UV light and hydrogen peroxide. The shallow pool is perfectly heated to body temperature and filled with Epsom salts to keep the body buoyant, relieving pressure on muscles and joints. Clients can create their own individual float experience. One can take advantage of the ideal sensory deprivation setting by turning off all lights and sound or customize the session with soothing music and lighting options, including a night sky of twinkling stars. Float therapy can help with many medical conditions, such as PTSD, depression, chronic pain, insomnia and headaches. It also eliminates fatigue, while
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Dry salt therapy is a natural, drug-free treatment that helps clients reduce symptoms from respiratory conditions including asthma, allergies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, ear infections and sinus infections. Halotherapy is also effective against skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antimicrobial, while also boosting the immune system. Halotherapy is a user-friendly, passive form of treatment; no action required. All that is required is to sit back and breathe in the Himalayan salt-infused mist in a relaxing and tranquil environment. The Indoor Oasis salt booth provides an enclosed salt cave-like environment overlooking a waterfall. Within the booth, a fine dry mist of pure pharmaceutical grade Himalayan salt is dispersed through the air to be inhaled through the lungs and sinuses, breaking up mucus and congestion. Improved breathing can reduce stress, improve athletic performance and regulate sleep patterns, especially in combination with other therapies such as chiropractic care, massage and acupuncture treatments. Halotherapy is even safe for kids.
4D Massage
This technology caters to a wide range of people. Performed by a chair featuring fully customizable speed and intensity levels, the internal spinning rollers are designed to imitate human hand-kneading tech-
Digital Thermography of Body & Breast s el f omething Good for Your Do S SCREEN TODAY!
niques, loosening muscles for a soothing full-body massage. The Indoor Oasis 4D massage chair can also improve blood circulation, increase oxygenation of the brain and provide restoration of muscle strength. Open seven days a week with extended hours, The Indoor Oasis offers a nice complement of do-it-yourself services to incorporate into a rejuvenating staycation. Gift certificates, special gift packages and holiday discounts are available. Call to schedule a VIP tour of the new space and amenities.
Location: Echo Bridge Office Park, 383 Elliot St., Door F, Ste. 250, Newton Upper Falls. For a menu of services and holiday discount packages, visit WellAdjusted.com. For more information, call 617-964-3332 or email Info@WellAdjusted.com. See ads on page 3 and 7, and Resource Guide on pages 35 and 39. Wendy Fachon is a regular contributor to the magazine and host of the Story Walking Radio Hour on the Dream Visions 7 Radio Network. Learn more at StoryWalking.com.
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Early Detection of Disease Allows for Early Intervention and Optimal Health Affordable • Painless • Safe
Waltham, MA (781) 899-2121 Shrewsbury, MA (508) 425-3300
Hopkinton, MA (508) 425-3300
December 2019
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2019
Gift Guide
Often during this wonderful time of year, wellness is less of a priority and heightened consumption upstages efforts to go green. To practice conscious consumerism, consider the eco-friendliness of a potential gift item— what it’s made of, where it came from and how it’s packaged—but remember that gifts that acknowledge the recipient’s needs and interests are the most meaningful and fun to give. For this year’s gift-giving season, Natural Awakenings has gathered a few thoughtful and practical gift ideas to ease the stress of holiday shopping. Keep moving, keep nourishing and keep sweating with Fitlosophy’s fitness-meets-gratitude journals, designed to empower your mind, body and soul. Be grateful, set goals, get inspired, think positive and reflect with this guided journal. Record strength training, cardio, flexibility, and log food to record healthy eats, plus trackers for nutrients, vitamins, water and sleep. Designed to inspire you daily. LiveLifeFit.com Welly—a company that offers highly functional and fashionable drinkware that helps our environment, gives clean water to people in need and promotes healthy lifestyles. Insulated bottles are made from18/8 food-grade stainless steel, bamboo, BPA-free plastic and silicone. Plus, Welly donates 3 percent of all sales to water projects that bring long-lasting clean water solutions to communities worldwide. WellyBottle.com If you’re looking for aluminum-free, vegan options in deodorant, look no further than Zion Health’s variety of ClayDry Deodorants that use essential oils and ionic clay minerals to keep you fresh. They come in scented and unscented varieties, too. ZionHealth.com/deodorants Parkland Design & Manufacturing creates bags, backpacks, totes and accessories for everyday life. The exterior fabric of all Parkland products is made from 100 percent recycled water bottles, and leather squares are made from apples, making their products vegan. Their mission is to inspire others to make sustainable choices by offering products that combine purpose, style and quality at an accessible price. ParklandMFG.com 16
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The simple pleasure of sharing fresh bread carries a greater purpose when served on this bread tray, handcrafted by Haitian artisans earning a sustainable income. Fast-growing obeechi wood is cultivated sustainably to ensure that while artisans make a fair living from their native land, they also protect the landscape for future generations. Sold at Ten Thousand Villages, a global maker‑to‑market movement that breaks the cycle of generational poverty and ignites social change. TenThousandVillages.com
Sunlight is an essential ingredient for a healthy lifestyle, but many of us don’t get the amount of bright light we need to experience its benefits. The HappyLight Touch light therapy lamp safely brings daylight indoors by emitting a bright white light that mimics sunlight. Plug it in and get happy! Choose from three different levels of brightness and select the color temperature that best suits your needs from daylight to warm white. Its sleek, durable design makes it easy to take on-thego and use as part of your daily routine. Verilux.com
Each of these one-of-a-kind aprons is handcrafted from cotton sari fabric that has been diverted from a landfill. The reversible apron is made by artisans working with Ten Thousand Village’s partner Prokritee. The income women earn through employment with Prokritee helps them secure proper housing, adequate food and education for their children. TenThousandVillages.com
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December 2019
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business spotlight
Johnson Compounding and Wellness Personalized Medicine for Autoimmune Treatment by Wendy Fachon
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ohnson Compounding and Wellness (JCW) takes pride in its expertise in low-dose naltrexone (LDN), which is used in doses of 0.5mg to 8mg in patients with autoimmune diseases. In 1984, naltrexone was approved by the FDA in a 50mg dose to help heroin or opium addicts maintain substance abuse abstinence. In technical terms, it is an opioid antagonist. Then in 1985, Dr. Bernard Bihari discovered the positive effects of using a much smaller dose of naltrexone to treat deficiencies in the human immune system. At that time, the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic was beginning to surface, and Bihari realized that naltrexone’s effects
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included increasing endorphins, which raise immune competence. He also discovered that individuals within the HIV-positive AIDS population were low in endorphin production compared to patients that did not have AIDS. Patients with autoimmune diagnoses such as systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn’s disease have all benefited from LDN. It has been seen to minimize the progression in patients with multiple sclerosis, and because of this its use has been more recently extended to other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although the biological mechanisms of these diseases have yet to be identified, LDN can work to support immunity and reduce inflammation, which may minimize chronic neuropathic pain. The medication has great potential for providing a low-cost, nonaddictive opioid alternative for patients living with such pain. LDN is only available through compounding pharmacies and JCW specializes in the field. Its pharmacists are members of the LDN Research Trust and have presented worldwide on the uses and potential benefits of LDN. Unlike mass-produced drugs, compounded medications are created from scratch in small batches by mixing individual ingredients together in the exact strength and dosages specified by a patient’s provider. Compounding allows patients to avoid unwanted allergens, excipients and other harmful fillers. The pharmacy can prepare medications free of problem-causing ingredients such as sugar, lactose, dyes, alcohol, gluten or preservatives. The art and science of compounding was the standard for providing prescription medications prior to the emergence of pharmaceutical manufacturers. Patients and health care professionals now realize that mass-produced, commercially available medications do not always meet their needs. Over the years, JCW’s offerings have grown and evolved, reflecting modern advances in pharmaceuticals. It is a premier pharmacy in the Northeast serving 15 states throughout the country, and it has earned an international presence in the world of supplements. This pharmacy was one of the first independent pharmacies of its kind to have a dual focus on natural medicine and now offers a full range of nutritional supplements, natural products and homeopathic remedies. The pharmacy supports the principles of integrative medicine, and its staff works closely, along with patient providers, to offer an enlightened “whole person” approach. The pharmacists ask a lot of questions and encourage the customers to ask questions, too, in order to optimize the safety and effectiveness of the prescription fulfillment. For example, patients can provide medical history and ask about contraindications of medicines or medical situations. LDN is an ideal example of this. Location: 577 Main St., Waltham. For more information about LDN and Johnson Compounding and Wellness products and services, call 781 893-3870 or visit NaturalCompounder.com. See ad on back cover and Resource Guide on pages 36, 37 and 38.. Wendy Fachon is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine and host of the Story Walking Radio Hour on the Dream Visions 7 Radio Network. Learn more at StoryWalking.com.
therapy spotlight
Reduce Signs Of Aging
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Non-Surgical Face Lifts at STEMsential
TEMsential Integrative Stem Cell Center, in Franklin, is offering polydioxanone (PDO) facial lifts, sometimes called a thread lift, as an innovative and minimally invasive procedure to lift and tighten loose, aging skin. Until recently, the only option to address skin laxity problems like drooping cheeks and jowls was to commit to a surgical facelift. But many people aren’t willing to undergo surgery or don’t feel like their skin concerns are severe enough to require a surgical procedure. A PDO facial lift is an excellent option to improve one’s appearance without surgery. During the procedure, Yujin Nah, M.D., uses temporary sutures to lift and reposition the skin to create a taut, youthful appearance. The suture threads are made from PDO, a colorless, crystalline biodegradable synthetic polymer that physicians have been using as dissolvable stitches for decades. Once Nah places the PDO threads into the skin, they provide three distinct benefits. First, they mechanically lift and reposition the skin. Second, the threads stimulate collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and improves the skin elasticity. Finally, the threads cause the subdermal fat tissue to contract, which tightens the skin even more. Most of the time, a PDO facial lift takes around 30 minutes. A local anesthetic is administered before beginning the PDO facial lift. Once the patient is thoroughly numb, Nah uses a special needle to guide the PDO threads into the deepest layers of the skin. She uses the threads to lift and anchor the skin before trimming any excess thread. There is almost no downtime needed for a PDO facial lift. Some mild swelling or redness directly after the procedure can be expected, but these side effects usually subside quickly. Results of the treatment are usually seen within a couple of days as any post-treatment swelling subsides. Location: 150 Emmons St., Ste. 6, Franklin. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 508-669-7600 or visit STEMsential.com. See ad on this page. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
December 2019
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Awakening to the Evolution of Community by Linda Sechrist
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en master Thich Nhat Hanh’s suggestion that the next Buddha would likely not take form as an individual but rather as a sangha, a community practicing mindful living, led many people to ask, “Why a community?” The author of more than 100 books that explore the Buddha’s core teachings on mindfulness, kindness and compassion, Hanh clarified the meaning of sangha as a good community necessary for helping individuals learn how to encounter life in the present moment, resist the unwholesome ways of our time, go in the direction of peace and nourish seeds of enlightenment. Even the best intentions, he noted, can falter without such a group of trusted family, friends and co-practitioners experiencing mindfulness together.
A Migration to Forming Community
Today’s trend toward collaborative processes and opportunities for transformation through online communities is made easier by the availability of affordable video conferencing providers such as Zoom, Skype and Mighty Networks, as well as online platforms like Facebook and 20
MeetUp. Although many groups form for marketing, political, civic or social purposes—allowing participants to share values and common interests—thousands more gather as online intentional communities associated with personal growth and spiritual awakening. Myriad individuals have been able to experience some aspect of community through international organizations such as MindValley, Hay House, the Shift Network and Dr. Deepak Chopra’s Jiyo, a wellness-focused mobile app intended to extend the reach of his ideas on health and social transformation from millions of people to more than 1 billion. In MeetUp, spiritual awakening groups recently comprised 1,113,972 members in 3,631 groups worldwide. Additionally, co-housing communities, spiritual residential communities and eco-villages continue to form around the intention of designing and implementing pathways to a regenerative future.
The Old Story Versus the New Story
The increased interest in intentional communities may hint at a possibility
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that the human desire for community might be nature’s evolutionary nudge toward a collective leap that helps us to survive a changing climate and Earth’s potential sixth mass extinction. If so, this possibility needs a new supportive story that includes humans as part of nature, with its evolutionary impulse as a guide for body, mind and soul. With our modern scientific worldview, when people talk about nature, they typically mean animals, plants, geological features and natural processes, all happening independently of humans. A more suitable new story is cultural historian Thomas Berry’s moving and meaningful narrative in The Great Work: Our Way Into the Future, in which humans aren’t above nature by virtue of superior intellect, but instead are equal partners with all that exists in a materially and spiritually evolving universe. From Berry’s perspective, humans are the eyes, minds and hearts through which the cosmos is evolving so that it can come to know itself ever more perfectly through us. Apollo 14 astronaut Edgar Mitchell shared Berry’s perspective. Traveling back to Earth after walking upon the lunar
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THE EMERGING POWER OF ‘WE’
surface, Mitchell gazed out of the spacecraft window, whereupon he was flooded with an ecstatic awareness. “I was a part of the universe I was observing, and I became aware that everything that exists is part of one intricately interconnected whole,” recounts Mitchell, who founded the groundbreaking Institute of Noetic Sciences to explore the nature of human consciousness.
A Guiding Light
Seijaku Roshi, the abbot and founder of the Pine Wind Zen Community, aptly named for its location in a pine forest in Shamong, New Jersey, advises, “People are searching and hungering for community, which is number one on my agenda. If we aren’t talking about community, we’re squandering the moment. Whether it’s an evolutionary nudge or not, it appears that our tragic world situation is pushing us towards an alternative vision for living a meaningful life that meets the needs of people, society and the environment. We are awakening to the fact we’re interconnected, interdependent and need community, which is the spirit and guiding light whereby people come together to fulfill a purpose, to help others fulfill their purpose and to take care of one another.”
Conscious Evolution
Craig Hamilton, the guiding force behind the movement known as Integral Enlightenment, is the founder of the telecourse training program Academy for Evolutionaries. His spiritual guidance and teachings reach a growing international online community spanning 50 countries. “Transforming ourselves in the deepest possible way is, in fact, an evolutionary imperative, and we need to be able to identify the indicators of emergent shifts and participate creatively with change as an evolutionary force. Evolution up to this point has been playing out unconsciously. We’re now waking up and realizing that we can collaborate and participate in an emerging future.” Hamilton’s experience is that where humans awake to the one that is expressed through the many, they also begin to engage together. “Practicing community isn’t as simple as it seems. In online communities, a lot less can go wrong. The stakes aren’t as high. People come and go, share and engage as they like.”
A Community of Sisterhood
Laurie McCammon, author of Enough! How to Liberate Yourself and Remake the World with Just One Word, feels certain that humans are evolving. “We were last to the party with our big brains, and now we’re trying to intellectualize our way to an uncertain future without important feminine values such as feeling, intuiting, nurturing, interdependency and vulnerability,” says McCammon, who is deeply involved in the circle movement, in which women gather in small groups to empower each other. A regular participant in Gather the Women Global Matrix, a worldwide sisterhood that connects thousands of women sharing meaningful conversations and celebrating the divine feminine with the intention of bringing about personal and planetary transformation through cooperation and collaboration, McCammon says, “No one of us can bring about large-scale transformation alone. It’s time to tell the new story wherein our lives and actions demonstrate that together we are enough. Non-hierarchical circles that encourage authentic communication are part of this new story.” Citing other important circle communities such as Tree Sisters and The Millionth Circle, McCammon suggests that women tap into The Divine Feminine app, which allows them to find circle communities and events anywhere in the world.
Co-Creating With the Intelligence of Nature
Teacher and futurist Peter Russell writes books that are focused on consciousness and contemporary spirituality. His lectures help humans free themselves of limited beliefs and attitudes that belie many of humanity’s personal, social and global problems. The author of The Global Brain: The Awakening Earth in a New Century, Russell posits that the evolutionary process naturally draws humans together. “Humans are social creatures that need community, which I find very energizing,” says Russell, who cites the Findhorn Foundation eco-village, in Scotland, as a dynamic experiment in community. “Although residents went through hard times, they recognized the need for honest communication so they could attune to one another in loving ways that
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would allow everyone to work through their difficulties. Today, life at Findhorn is guided by the inner voice of spirit, and residents work in co-creation with the intelligence of nature,” he says.
The Collective Wisdom of Community
An uncertain future is emerging, making it necessary for new and more intuitive methods and spiritual practices for developing collective wisdom, human potential and the skills for practicing community. “I’m in the process of finalizing 118 chapters from 90 different authors for a Collaborative Change Library: Transforming Organizations, Revitalizing Communities, Developing Human Potential,” says associate editor Carole Gorelick, who clarifies that spiritual practices are now playing a part in bringing about collaborative change. She notes that several chapters are updated versions of The Change Handbook: The Definitive Resource on Today’s Best Methods for Engaging Whole Systems (2007 second edition), which included modalities such as World Café, Open Space Technology, Art of Hosting, Appreciative Inquiry and many others. A living handbook for developing human potential and the skills to practice community, Fred Eppsteiner has been teaching Buddhism for 23 years. A student of Hanh’s since the 1960s, he is the founder of the Florida Community of Mindfulness, in Tampa. Eppsteiner sums up why the next Buddha could be a community: “A better future will be created by people who are living the values they want for the world, not just abstractly using only the intellect. In community, we ask ourselves, ‘Can I be what I want to see in the world? Can I practice these things mindfully in community with love, acceptance, deep listening, compassion and kindness?’ These are values that every Buddha has lived for centuries, and certainly ones we need to evolve from a culture of, ‘It’s all about me’ to a culture of, ‘It’s all about we’.” Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at LindaSechrist.com. December 2019
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of living from a place of abundance. We see the world through a clear lens that isn’t clouded by fear, wanting or clinging. When we interact with others, our connection is genuine. We see people instead of judgments or labels. Being generous arises from the heart, not the wallet. We don’t need to have material wealth in order to be generous. The only requirement is a willingness to open our hearts, to see life as it is and to interact with others from a place of compassion and love. Some examples of generous acts are:
The Generous Heart
n Doing a household chore without being asked.
How Giving Transforms Us
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by Cindy Ricardo
ne of the ways we come into balance and connection with each other and with life is by giving from the heart. When we give to others, whether it’s an act of kindness, generosity or compassion, it helps us live from the heart instead of the ego. Living from the ego is painful and exhausting. It’s like feeding a hungry monster that’s never satisfied. Ego craves, pursues and clings to status, approval, material wealth and control. It views the world through the eyes of fear—constantly evaluating, judging and acting in ways that are self-centered, defensive and protective. Like with
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Scrooge, ego closes our heart and makes us small, fearful and contracted. By contrast, generosity requires that we open our hearts to the world and each other. We allow ourselves to be vulnerable. In doing this, we open ourselves fully to life, love and relationships. We let go of striving and pursuing things. When we stop striving, we begin to see, value and respond to what’s happening in the present moment in ways that are healthy and healing. Our priority shifts from acquiring things to appreciating what we have and being open to sharing with others. Generosity is a quality of kindness,
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n Setting aside what we’re doing and listening to someone in need of emotional support. n Telling loved ones what we appreciate about them. n Listening to children and trying to see the world through their eyes before offering advice. n Smiling at a stranger. n When asking, “How are you?” looking into the person’s eyes and taking time to truly listen with an attitude of curiosity and compassion. Generosity awakens goodness in the heart, and this helps us open to life, love and relationships. Cindy Ricardo is a Coral Springs, Florida-based psychotherapist who blogs at ACaringCounselor.com.
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inspiration
JANUARY
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ISSUE
Coming Next Month
The Journey to Parenthood
AgeDefying Habits
Plus: Healthy Immune System
Perinatal Wellness Addresses Needs Along the Way by Natural Awakenings staff
The journey of becoming a parent is unpredictable, fraught with unexpected challenges and struggles, driven by hope and the promise of miraculous love. It is a journey no one can understand until immersed in the experience.
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hen couples, or single parents immediate family creating a support sysby choice, first begin to embark tem for joy and grief,” she says. Centers, on the journey to parenthood, like Life Gate Holistic Living Center, are the hopeful anticipation overshadows starting to pop up around the country that the potential pitfalls that could be ahead. focus on perinatal wellness. Perinatal literEven when the journey is smooth, most ally translates to “around birth.” It is in this prospective parents have no idea what to that perinatal wellness can help recreate expect of their bodies, the village. their emotions and Carney realized With the medicalization of the next steps. Karina after having her third birth, and a lack of education child of her own how Beleno Carney, reproand understanding of the ductive acupuncturist, few resources there owner and clinical birthing process, women are are for new families director of Life often left with little sense of outside of an urban Gate Holistic Living area. “Our rural and control or empowerment in suburban families ofCenter, a perinatal their bodies or decisions. wellness and resource ten live in some form center, in Groton, of isolation, whether offers a holistic, collaborative care model, geographically, or in the passing acquainthat addresses the physical, emotional, tance of barely knowing their neighbors. spiritual and practical aspects of the jourThe globalization of our society also ney to parenthood. means that our closest friends and families “We no longer have the village, in can often live some significant distance which young children are regularly exaway,” she explains. posed to pregnancy, childbirth and the As a result, struggles with infertility, care of newborns and people beyond the pregnancy and infant loss, and postpartum Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
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depression and anxiety are often ignored or hidden. The medical care that women receive, with the advancement of specialized care, is excellent in that so many care options are available to prospective and new parents. However, the care is compartmentalized, lacking continuity and education for the next steps. “I often have infertility clients who are so immersed in the infertility journey, that they are completely unprepared for actually being pregnant,” she shares. Once pregnant, if couples have experienced loss, they sometimes find it difficult getting excited past the fear of another loss. This leaves them completely unprepared for labor and delivery. With the medicalization of birth, and a lack of education and understanding of the birthing process, women are often left with little sense of control or empowerment in their bodies or decisions. This can lead to traumatic birth experiences, and an increased incidence of postpartum depression or anxiety. By providing continuity of holistic care and education from preconception, through pregnancy, and into the postpartum year, feelings of isolation, fear and despair can be mitigated. Hopelessness can be transformed to empowerment. Life Gate Holistic Living Center is located at 66 Boston Rd., Groton. For more information, call 978-448-0405 or visit LifeGate Living.com. See Resource Guide on page 38.
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Storms make trees take deeper roots. ~Dolly Parton
wise words
Surgeon Mary Neal on Lessons From Heaven by Kajsa Nickels
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n 1999, while kayaking on the Fuy River in Chile, orthopedic surgeon Mary Neal became trapped beneath a waterfall and drowned. She was underwater for 30 minutes before the current pulled her out. During that time, Neal experienced what she believes to be a miraculous event in which she penetrated the veil dividing the physical and spiritual worlds. There, she was told that it was not yet her time, and of the future death of her eldest son, a prediction that was fulfilled 10 years later. The experience gave her a new perspective on the purpose of our Earthly existence and life after death. She has since written two books on the subject: To Heaven and Back: A Doctor’s Extraordinary Account of Her Death, Heaven, Angels and Life Again; and 7 Lessons from Heaven: How Dying Taught Me to Live a Joy-Filled Life. Her life-altering experience prompted her to pay more attention to those things that are truly important: faith, family and relationships with other human beings. She lives with her family in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she continues to mend broken bones.
How do you think your medical background makes you uniquely qualified to speak on near-death experiences (NDE)? I am a very concrete thinker and analyze everything. Being a doctor also gave me access to many resources that the common person would not. I spent many months
researching scientific and medical literature to try to come up with a logical explanation of what had happened to me. I was forced to conclude that my experience fell outside of the parameters of both science and medicine. I could not find any examples to disprove what happened, especially when the predicted death of my oldest son came to pass.
What was the most profound moment of your experience?
It’s hard to pinpoint the most profound moment of the entire experience, but what impacted me most was the realization that God is real, and He is present to each and every one of us every moment of our daily lives. I realized to the depths of my soul that all God’s promises are true, not just wishful thinking or a vague hope.
How has your NDE made you a better wife, mother and medical professional? You can’t have an NDE without having your entire life changed. When you realize that there is more to life than what you can see with your physical eyes, it changes your entire perspective on every moment of every day. The things we say and the things we do create a ripple effect that spreads beyond the boundaries of our human sight. Love is ultimately the only thing that matters, to reflect love to the world and other people. I was a “good person” before my NDE, but I now see differently. I see that each human being is
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incredibly loved, and that we are all one: We are them, and they are us. Everything else in the world is secondary to God’s love and presence in our lives.
How is your approach to everyday life different than it was prior to your NDE?
I am able to be entirely present in every moment of my life. I can experience deep and abiding joy regardless of my circumstances. I am able to trust that grace covers my past, that there is life after death and a plan for my life. No matter what is happening, even if it is terrible, beauty will come out of it. Most people are trapped in regrets of the past and worry about the future. With complete trust in God, I am able to fully have joy in each and every moment.
Is there a difference between joy and happiness?
Absolutely. Happiness is an emotion based on circumstances. Happiness can accompany joy, but not always. Joy is a state of being, of trusting in God, of believing that his promises are true. Joy comes from freedom—freedom from disruptive emotions like guilt, remorse, unforgiveness. Even in the devastation of my oldest son’s death, I can honestly say that I experienced a deep joy from trusting in God’s love and promises.
Why do you believe heaven is written in our hearts?
As a scientist, I firmly believe that we are created beings with physical bodies and spiritual souls. I believe that our spiritual self remembers heaven and remembers joy. Part of our journey here on Earth is to rediscover our connection with God. As adults, we often feel that we have to choose between science and spiritualism. The truth is that they coexist, answering questions in different ways. Kajsa Nickels is a freelance author who lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Connect at fideleterna45@gmail.com. December 2019
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Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy.
Oh-So-Healthy Holiday Treats Petrovich Nataliya/Shutterstock.com
conscious eating
THE MERRY VEGAN
People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets
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by Julie Peterson
he holidays may send too many sugar plums and frosted gingerbread figures dancing in the heads of people with dietary restrictions. Anyone that chooses to avoid highly processed flours or sugars, artificial ingredients and loads of butter will typically be presented with all of this and more at social gatherings this time of year. They arrive on visually appealing cookie platters that tempt with their cute shapes, vibrant colors and sparkle. Some, like the gingerbread and reindeer cutouts, will beckon with glazed eyes: “Just one,” they whisper. But one can turn into nine and make someone that may normally avoid sugar or gluten feel bodily regrets. Someone that is vegan or allergic may feel they can’t have treats. Making healthier choices about food is difficult for reasons many don’t understand. “People have relationships with food—involving family, comfort and traditions—and they don’t want to give that up,” says James Brandon, of Tampa, founder of Facebook’s Vegan and PlantBased Beginner’s Community. Brandon says that holiday treats are tough to resist, but staying true to health goals is most important in the long run. The best defense to avoid frustration at social food events is to bring a dish 26
to share that meets your dietary needs, says Megan Gilmore, the author of No Excuses Detox: 100 Recipes to Help You Eat Healthy Every Day and a blogger at Detoxinista.com. “That way, you can introduce something delicious to your friends, family or co-workers and be sure you’ll have something to eat!” A batch of simple, delectable, visually appealing and healthful cookies can be that plate to share, a gift to give or something to keep on hand for guests. Keep the focus on simple, advises Pamela Reed, who blogs at BrooklynFarmGirl. com. There are plenty of recipes that will satisfy the sweet tooth and decorate the holiday buffet (until they’re all eaten, that is). Don’t increase holiday stress by trying a new recipe at the last minute. “Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy,” she says. Transitioning to a more conscious way of eating isn’t about deprivation or leaving tradition behind. Bring on the new and healthful cookie recipes and name one after your grandma. Julie Peterson writes from her home in rural Wisconsin. Contact her at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.
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Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Gluten Free) Yields: About 18 cookies 1 cup creamy peanut butter ½ cup coconut sugar ½ cup brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla ⅔ cup oat flour 1 tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt ¼ cup almond milk Additional sugar to roll cookies in Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and sugars with a hand mixer. Once combined, add vanilla and continue mixing. Add flour, baking soda, salt and almond milk into the bowl and mix for a few seconds, until combined. The cookie dough will be a little crumbly. Prepare 2 cookie sheets with silicone baking sheets or spray with nonstick spray. Roll the dough into large balls, and then gently roll in sugar to cover them. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie a little bit—not too much, or they will crumble. Bake cookies for 12 minutes. Once out of the oven, allow to cool for 15 minutes. This is important, as the cookies will be very soft when they come out of the oven, but they will harden up as they cool. Store in an airtight container or freeze. Recipe courtesy of BrooklynFarmGirl.com.
photo by Pamela Reed
~Pamela Reed
photo by Megan Gilmore
No-Bake Pecan Snowballs (Grain-Free, Vegan) Yields: 12 balls 1 cup pecan halves ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted (about 10 dates) 1 Tbsp coconut oil ½ tsp sea salt ½ tsp vanilla extract ½ cup arrowroot or tapioca starch Extra arrowroot for dusting, or coconut sugar Place the pecans and shredded coconut in a large food processor fitted with an “S” blade, and process until the pecans are broken down and crumbly. Add in the rest of the ingredients and process again, until a sticky dough is formed. (It should stick together when pressed between two fingers.) Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons and roll the dough between your hands, forming balls. Arrange the balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then place them in the freezer to set, about 1 to 2 hours. For a “snowball” look, roll the balls in additional arrowroot or tapioca starch—just a light coating will do—since the starch will not enhance the flavor. It’s just for looks! Note: If you’d prefer to roll the balls in coconut sugar or shredded coconut, roll them in one of those options before freezing, so the coating will stick better. Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to two weeks for best texture. Source: Detoxinista.com/no-bake-pecansnowballs-paleo-vegan Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
December 2019
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fit body
Robert Kneschke/Shutterstock.com
Go-to Breathing Exercises From Rachael Walter: The Three-Breath Sigh Place one hand on your lower belly and the other on your chest. Breathing in through your nose, let your breath start in the belly and move up to the chest. Then exhale through your mouth while making an audible sighing sound. Repeat two more times. The Four-Eight Relaxing Breath Place one hand on your lower belly and the other on your chest. Using a belly breath, inhale to the count of four and exhale to the count of eight, making your exhale twice as long as your inhale to facilitate relaxation. Feel free to play with how fast or slow you count to find a comfortable breathing pace. Repeat for six to 10 times as needed. Breath Walk This is an excellent exercise to do while at work, school or a public place to give your nervous system a break, even when the world is crazy-busy around you. Walk at a slightly slower pace than normal and breathe in for one step; breathe out for the next step, counting three or four for each breath/ step. Continue as you walk, being mindful of your breath, counting and surroundings.
For further inquiry, Melissa Crowder recommends these Kundalini yoga breaths: Shabad Kriya for promoting deep restful sleep Sitali Pranayama for lowering a fever or cooling off a hot temper Breath of Fire for improved brain circulation, stimulating digestion and weight control Right nostril breathing for afternoon slumps Left nostril breathing to quiet mind chatter at bedtime
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INHALING THE JOY OF LIFE
Conscious Breathwork by Marlaina Donato
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South Carolina published in the journal ur first breath is instinctual and BMC Complementary and Alternative belly-deep, but as we grow into Medicine shows a lower number of life, everyday stress and trauma proteins associated with inflammation in can bring us into the shallows. Mindful the saliva of participants breathing can help guide that employed breathing our breath back to its Many people have exercises. A study that original, healthy rhythm. Both the brain and organs found that a regular appeared in the journal Psychophysiology in 2015 benefit from increased breathing practice found that 20 minutes oxygen, and the vagus has helped them of mindful breathing at nerve that connects the two—prompted by increase energy and bedtime fostered a good night’s rest for people with changes in the body’s pH decrease anxiety. insomnia. levels—releases acetylcholine, a neurotrans~Rachael Walter mitter responsible for Breathing Breaks lowering heart rate. From traditional rebirthing Breathwork can improve vagal tone, techniques using circular breathing to Mida major component in a wide range of dendorf Breath Work for somatic awareconditions like depression, pain synness, there are many styles of conscious dromes, sleep disturbances, anxiety breathing. The gentler approaches best disorders and chronic inflammation. A suit everyday needs and taking a breathing 2016 study by the Medical University of
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break can actually provide more refreshment than one featuring coffee. “Many people have found that a regular breathing practice has helped them increase energy and decrease anxiety. It is a powerful tool to reset the nervous system when we’re overwhelmed and stressed,” says Somatic Breath Therapy (SBT) practitioner Rachael Walter, owner of Breathe-HereNow, in Keene, New Hampshire. Like many forms of breathwork, SBT bridges the chasm between mind and body. “Conscious breathing can also help people access and understand their emotions,” notes Walter. Pranayama, an ancient technique of yoga that focuses on breath control and employs alternate nostril breathing, can be performed while lying down, seated or on the yoga mat. Kundalini yoga teacher Melissa Crowder, owner of 4 States Yoga, in Joplin, Missouri, advises students to start out slowly, three to six minutes a day, and then work up to a longer practice. “Alternate nostril breathing is a great practice for everyone. As little as six minutes of yogic breathing, as needed, can make a profound difference in decreasing pain and stress,” she says.
modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, diaphragmatic breathing might be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome.
Breathing Into Feelings
The depth and quality of the breath can help us to become aware of emotional states that include “holding patterns”. “Conscious breathing is a doorway into deep meditation, which can help alleviate anger and insecurities. It can also be helpful in dropping addictions,” says Crowder. “Linking pranayama with physical movement [asanas]
helps to release tension and emotions that can be held in the body’s soft tissues.” Breeckner agrees, “Developing this awareness can help us to move unpleasant and stuck emotions through the body.” Well-being can be just a breath away, says Walter. “When we open up our breath, we open ourselves to a fuller experience of being human. It has the capacity to bring us into the present moment to access our joy and our life’s purpose.” Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.
Belly Benefits
The American Lung Association recommends a variety of exercises, including diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, for conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Engaging the diaphragm is key in breathing to fullest capacity. Walter explains, “An open, healthy breath is one in which we use the diaphragm to initiate the breath, followed by the belly expanding and the breath moving into the chest.” Most of us unconsciously fall into shallow and sometimes self-conscious breathing patterns at an early age. “During my training, I read that by age 6, we pick up on cues telling us to tuck in our tummies. This simple, bad habit begins a cascade of physiological responses. Upper chest breathing can create anxiety symptoms and poor digestion,” explains Colleen Breeckner, owner of Colleen Lila Yoga, in New York City. “Diaphragmatic breathing causes the diaphragm to become flat and wide, and in turn, presses upon the stomach and helps to churn the gastric juices. For this reason, it can aid earlier stages of digestion.” When used in conjunction with other Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
December 2019
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Perfect Pet Presents Safe and Eco-Smart Toys by Julie Peterson
T
he pet aisles are so full of squeaking, plush and colorful toys it can make a dog or cat parent’s head spin like a Frisbee. Add blinking lights, flavors, promises of higher intelligence or cleaner teeth; then toss in concerns about sustainably sourced materials, potentially toxic ingredients and varying degrees of quality. The choices are complex. It would be nice to look for that seal of approval from the Pet Toy Regulatory Agency. But don’t bother: There is no such thing. It’s all up to the consumer to figure it out.
The Problem Is Real
Concern regarding toxicants in children’s toys and the realization that they posed a
risk of chemical exposure led to regulatory protections. “Similar safeguards do not exist for pets, even though they exhibit similar chewing and mouthing behaviors,” says Philip N. Smith, Ph.D., associate professor of terrestrial ecotoxicology at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. “Owner education is key to limiting unintentional chemical exposure.” According to a 2013 study co-authored by Smith and published in the journal Chemosphere, common endocrine-disrupting chemical toxins in plastics can enter a dog’s body through saliva. Concentrations of leachable chemicals can increase in older, degraded toys, according to the National Institutes of Health.
For anyone that has ever had a pet destroy a toy faster than it takes to calculate the cost per second, durable construction may be the highest concern. After all, if the toy is vigorously ripped to shreds, pieces may be swallowed. The most immediate issue becomes intestinal blockage. This is a common problem for cats and dogs with a propensity to eat garbage, plants and holiday decorations. But when we spend good money on actual toys, we would like to think that it won’t lead to surgery. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee. Poorly constructed toys have required many pet owners to watch for the parts to pass through the animal or, worse yet, make a trip to the vet. Even if a toy seems sturdy, it’s best to observe the animal with the toy.
New Africa/Shutterstock.com
natural pet
A New Generation Spurs Change
The American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey provides insight into the demographics, buying habits and other traits of owners. The 20192020 survey shows that about 85 million U.S. homes, or 67 percent, include a pet. “The pet care community is doing a great job of meeting the demands of a new generation by offering a range of products made from sustainable, recycled and upcycled materials,” says Steve King, CEO of APPA, in Stamford, Connecticut. King notes it’s expected that as Gen Z pet owners begin to assert themselves in the marketplace, we will see more products based on sustainability and transparency. Experts offer some guidelines for ways consumers can choose harmless toys: 4 Be suspicious of toys manufactured overseas or cheap ones made in the U.S. 4 Contact the manufacturer and ask if toys contain phthalates, BPA, arsenic, bromine, chemical dyes, chromium or formaldehyde. 4 Look for toys made with ingredients from nature (hemp, leather or wool). 4 Find a pet supply store that has natural, safe and sustainably sourced products. 4 Inspect toys periodically for loose parts and watch the pet with new toys. 4 If a pet plays with a toy and then acts oddly, contact the vet. Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin. Connect at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.
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Shopping for Safety
calendarofevents All Calendar events for the January issue must be received by December 10 and adhere to our guidelines. Visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com for guidelines and to submit entries. For extended event descriptions and additional listings, visit NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Copley Square Tree Lighting – 5pm. Annual tree lighting. Free. Copley Square, 560 Boylston St, Boston. 617-635-4505. Boston.gov/events.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 The Incredible Dr. You Workshops – 7:158:15pm. This first of two workshops breaks down the basics of Network Spinal Analysis, the method of chiropractic used at Newton Chiropractic. Get more out of your adjustments and enlighten yourself on just how incredible your body is at healing itself. Free. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Door F, Ste 250, Newton Upper Falls. RSVP: 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Boston Common Holiday Tree Lighting & Frog Pond Skating Spectacular – 5-8pm. Begins with an ice-skating show featuring Theater on Ice of Boston and more. Refreshments, music and entertainment. The Mayor will be joined by Santa to light the special tree sent as a gift from Nova Scotia. Other trees will be lit throughout the Common as well. Free. Near the Visitors Information Center on Tremont St, Boston Common, Boston. BostonDiscovery-Guide.com. Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll – 6-9pm. Carolers and music, festive holiday decorations, and all the eclectic boutiques, galleries, and restaurants along Charles Street make this annual Holiday Stroll a special occasion. Enjoy the festive spirit, and get all of your holiday shopping done in one evening. Charles St, Beacon Hill. BostonDiscovery-Guide.com. The Healing Power of Forgiveness – 6:307:30pm. Learn how to gently release the trapped energy of grief following the loss of a pregnancy, loved one, or change of circumstances following birth. With Shawna Pelton, motivational speaker and personal coach. Free. Life Gate Holistic Living Center, 66 Boston Rd, Rte 119, Groton. Pre-registration required: 978-448-0405 or LifegateLiving.com.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
of Martinus. Live stream with chat questions. Free. YouTube. 941-462-3177. TheThirdTestament.info.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Candlelit Labyrinth Walk: In Peach & Harmony – 4:30pm. Walk the candlelit labyrinth, tie a ribbon with your wish on the wishing tree and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. RSVP appreciated. Free. Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway, Atlantic Ave, Boston. ArmenianHeritagePark.org.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Darshan with Mother Meera – 10am & 1pm. Mother Meera, an incarnation of the Divine Mother, travels throughout the world offering Darshan, a silent blessing of light and love. She welcomes people of all beliefs from all walks of life. 2 session times available. Free. Hilton Boston/ Woburn, 2 Forbes Rd, Woburn. Reservations required: Registration.MotherMeera.com/ Sessions/Public. Healthy Eating Through the Holidays – 5:307:30pm. We will discuss common pitfalls and give tips on how to plan ahead to enjoy the holidays and say yes to some indulgences too, guilt free. With Amy Kinne, Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. Free. Life Gate Holistic Living Center, 66 Boston Rd, Rte 119, Groton. Pre-registration required: 978-448-0405 or LifegateLiving.com.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Reiki Level 1 Training – 9am-7pm. Learn the traditional Japanese reiki meditations, how to practice hands-on healing for self and others, the reiki principles, reiki history, and how reiki promotes mindfulness, well-being, and resilience. Comprehensive course manual. CEUs for nurses, social workers and LMTs. $155. Brenner Reiki Healing, 324 Central St, Auburndale. 617-2448856. BrennerReikiHealing.org.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 BEMER – 3:30-4:30pm. BEMER is designed to improve circulation supporting the body’s natural self-regulating processes. It enhances cardiac function, physical fitness, endurance, strength and energy, concentration, mental acuity, stress reduction and relaxation, and sleep management. Limited space; RSVP. Free. Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, 383 Elliot St, Door F, Ste 250, Newton Upper Falls. 617-964-3332. WellAdjusted.com.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 First Night Boston – Dec 31-Jan 1. The oldest New Year’s Eve event of this type in the U.S. Fun, alcohol free and designed for the whole family. Entertainment, ice sculptures, People’s Parade, family fireworks, ice show, ice skating, music, dancing, midnight fireworks and more. Free. Copley Square, Boston Common, Boston Harbor. Boston-Discovery-Guide.com.
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North End Holiday Stroll – 5-10pm. 15+ North End boutiques, wine stores, galleries and restaurants offer warm hospitality and 1-night only discounts. More info: Boston-Discovery -Guide.com.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 What is the Third Testament? – 11am-12pm. Introduction to The Third Testament, the life work
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Maureen Adams
74 Lead Mine Road Southampton, MA 01073
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December 2019
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ongoingcalendar All Calendar events for the January issue must be received by December 10 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 Quincy Market History Tour – Learn about Quincy Market’s central and ever-evolving role in Boston’s history. Meet guide, Linda, at the property directly near Anthem Restaurant. Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 4 S Market, Boston. 617-523-1300. Available dates & times: FaneuilHallMarketplace.com. Downtown Holiday Arts Market – Thru Jan 6. 11am-7pm, Mon-Sat; 11am-5pm, Sun. A Santa or two, frequent musical performances, and special creations from various vendors and artists. Free. Downtown Crossing on Washington St. BostonDiscovery-Guide.com. Free Tour of Symphony Hall – 4:30pm select weekdays. Also 3:30pm select Sat. 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. Blink! Light and Music Show – Thru Jan 1. 4:309:30pm, running every half hour. Light and music show at Faneuil Marketplace. Free. 4 S Market St, Boston. FaneuilHallMarketplace.com.
monthly Anxiety and Panic Support Group – 6:30pm. 1st day of month. A group designed to offer a place where people with common interests and experience can meet. People who have been through, or are going through, a similar circumstance can do more than sympathize with you, they can relate to what you are going through and keep you from feeling alone. Free. Washington St, Newton. 617-849-3198. UCanBeFearFree.com. .
sunday Support Group for Spouses and Family Members – 9-10am. 4th Sun. Is your spouse or family member a cancer patient or survivor? Please join our monthly support group led by the husband of a cancer survivor. Free. Generations, 129 E Main Plaza, Webster. 508-987-3310. PinkHippy.org. Sunday Celebration Service – 9:30-10:30am. Change your thinking and change your life through an hour of uplifting music, affirmative prayer, meditation and an inspiring message. All welcome. Love offering. Concordia Center for Spiritual Living, 292 W Shore Rd, Warwick. More info: ConcordiaCSL.com or Facebook.com/ ConcordiaCSL. Celebration Service – 10-11:15am. Meditation, 9:45am. Service followed by fellowship. Free.
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Center for Spiritual Living of Greater Boston, 50 Dudley St, Cambridge. 617-947-2743. CSLBoston.org.
$10. Bhavna’s Wellness Group, 512 Main St, Penthouse Ste, Shrewsbury. 508-970-5620. BhWellnessGroup.com.
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, 450 Harrison Ave, Boston. SoWaVintageMkt.com.
Reiki Healing Sessions – 7-9pm. Reiki and energy healers offer their services free of charge. To broaden the spirit of free care and community services to others, please make a donation in any amount for each healing you receive. Donations sent to a variety of local charitable causes. Open Doors, 395 Washington St, Braintree. 781-8438224. OpenDoors7.com.
monday Drop-In Parent Group – Thru Dec 16. 11am1pm. Join other new parents with children up to 2 years. Discussions vary by week and include the stress on bodies caused by carrying an infant or toddler around. Share ideas with other parents going through new parenthood. Free. Life Gate Holistic Living Center, 66 Boston Rd, Rte 199, Groton. 978-448-0405. LifeGateLiving.com. Peace Circle – 6-7pm. 1st Mon. Want to experience greater peace? Join us as we explore different aspects of peace through music, meditation and poetry, and how to put it into practice within yourself, relationships, community and the world. All welcome. Facilitator, Gina Colvario-Krupka, RScP. Love offering. Concordia Center for Spiritual Living, 292 W Shore Rd, Warwick. 401-5805800. More info: Gina@BelieveInYouToday@ gmail.com. ConcordiaCSL.com. Facebook.com/ ConcordiaCSL. Free Guided Meditation – 6:15-6:45pm. Experience different HypnoMeditations (prerecorded by Richard Lanza) each week. HypnoMeditation takes you on a journey to states of expansive inner calm which allow for personal transformation and healing. Free. Open Doors, 395A Washington St, Braintree. 781-843-8224. OpenDoors7.com. Nia-Somatic Fitness – 7:30-8:30pm. Nia is for everyone. A blend of dance, martial arts and healing arts set to great music and led by Brown Belt instructor Alice Heller. $15. Om Namo Center, 21 Belmont St, Cambridge. 617-620-7654. AliceHellerDance.com.
tuesday 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. $5 suggested donation. King’s Chapel, Tremont & School sts, Boston. 617-227-2155. Kings-Chapel.org. Weekly Divine Meditation – 6-7pm. Experience a powerful guided meditation lead by Bhavna, the Golden Light Goddess. No two meditations are ever the same. Drop-ins encouraged.
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wednesday Restorative Yoga – 12-1:30pm. Yoga for breast cancer patients, survivors and their families and caregivers. Please see the yoga page at website, under services, for more information. Free/ patients, survivors & caregivers. St. Vincent Cancer & Wellness Center, 1 Eaton Pl, Worcester. 508-987-3310. PinkHippy.org. Guided Meditation – 2pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Guided meditations for relaxation and healing are intended to assist you release your stress and anxiety. Relaxing body and mind can improve your overall well-being. Free/patients, survivors & caregivers. Generations, 129 E Main Plaza, Webster. 508-987-3310. PinkHippy.org. Museum of Fine Arts Free Wednesdays – Free admission after 4pm. Donation suggested. MFA, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston. 617-267-9300. mfa.org. Music Therapy with Laughing Drum Circle – 6:30-7:30pm 1st Wed. Music can help reduce pain, relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting. It can relieve stress and provide an overall sense of well-being. Join in and drum up good energy. Free/patients, survivors & caregivers; $10/other. Generations, 129 E Main Plaza, Webster. 508-9873310. PinkHippy.org. Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Weekly Meeting – 7-8:30pm. Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? There is a solution. Come to a meeting. Free. St. Brigid’s Parish Center, 1995 Massachusetts Ave, Rm 10, Lexington. 617610-3748. FoodAddicts.org. Meditation on Twin Hearts and Pranic Healing – 7-8:30pm. Meditation on twin hearts is a lovingkindness meditation. Come together as a group to bless the Earth. Reduce stress, boost your energy and receive healing. Donation. Workbar Boston, 711 Atlantic Ave, Boston. 857-529-7804. PHBoston.com. Public Open Night at the Observatory – 7:30pm, Fall/Winter; 8:30pm, Spring/Summer. 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. Space limited, reservations recommended. Free. Coit Observatory
at Boston University, 725 Commonwealth Ave, Boston. 617-353-2630. bu.edu.
thursday Free Night at the ICA – 5-9pm. The Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave, Boston. ICABoston.org. SRR Thursday Night 4.06 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 Bar, 171 Broadway, Somerville. SRR.org/Events/Thursday-Night-Race. Observatory Night – 7:30-9:30pm. 3rd Thurs, 6 times per academic year. A non-technical lecture and telescopic observing from the observatory roof if weather permits. Free. Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Phillips Auditorium, 60 Garden St, Cambridge. 617-495-7461. More info: CFA.Harvard.edu/publicevents.
friday Watertown Mall Walking Club – 9am. Meet the club leader near Carter’s. Start with stretching exercises followed by a walk through the mall. Occasional guest lectures. Free. Watertown Mall, 550 Arsenal St, Watertown. 617-926-4968. Watertown-Mall.com. Restorative Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Yoga for breast cancer patients, survivors and their families/
caregivers. Free/patients, survivors & caregivers; $10/other. JOYashanAH, 915 A Riverside Dr, North Grosvenordale. 508-987-3310. More info: PinkHippy.org. SoWa First Fridays – 5-9pm. 1st Fri. Over 60 galleries south of Washington St and at the Artist’s Guild, nearby businesses and restaurants open their doors to give you a chance to experience the vibrant South End arts community. Free. Start at 450 Harrison Ave, follow gallery lights around the neighborhood. SoWaBoston.com. Community Reiki Clinic – 7-8:45pm. 1st Fri. Receive a 30-min reiki session by appt. Appointments start at 7, 7:35 & 8:10pm. If you have been curious about reiki, schedule a session. $15. Brenner Reiki Healing, 324 Central St. Auburndale. 617-244-8856. BrennerReikiHealing.org.
saturday Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Weekly Meeting – 8-9:30am. Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? You are not alone. Today, there is a solution. Join us. Free. Christ Church, 33 Central St, Andover. 617-610-3748. FoodAddicts.org. Restorative Yoga – 8:15-9:15am. Yoga for breast cancer patients, survivors and their families/ caregivers. Free/patients, survivors & caregivers. Oxford Community Center, 4 Maple Rd, Oxford. 508-987-3310. More info: PinkHippy.org.
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The Marketplace at Simpson Spring – 10am2pm. Includes farmers, bakers, artisans and local entrepreneurs. Stop in to browse or take in our featured entertainment, local authors, educational seminars and lecturers. 719 Washington St, South Easton. SimpsonSpring.com/saturday-market.
classifieds BOOKS THE REHABILITATION OF CHRIST – Contents: The Persecution of Early Christian Movements; Disdain and Suppression of Women; Crimes Against Children, etc. 844-576-0937. Gabriele-Publishing-House.com.
SPIRITUAL SERVICES SPIRITUAL TOOLS TO TRANSFORM OUR PERSONAL LIVES – And help create a world that works for everyone. A spiritual family that honors all paths to the God of your understanding and can help you experience a personal relationship with the Inner Divine. Sunday Celebration Services, 10-11:15am. 50 Dudley St, Cambridge. CLSBoston.org.
PLACE YOUR AD: 617-906-0232
December 2019
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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com to request our media kit.
ACUPUNCTURE
BEAUTY
GROTON WELLNESS
ELEMENTAL ESSENCE
Quan Zhou, LicAc, Nutritionist 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com
Trinity Lounge, 1314 Mass Ave, Arlington, MA 02476 617-819-4372 ElementalEssence.org
Helping patients return to health with acupuncture, ear therapy, cupping, guasha and acupressure, Quan’s expertise lies in the areas of chronic and acute pain, allergy, digestive conditions, stress-related problems, headaches, migraines, anxiety, depression, neurological disorders, respiratory issues, supportive treatment for cancer, fertility, reproductive health, women’s health and difficult-to-treat conditions in conventional medicine. See ad, page 17.
Licensed esthetician, certified aromatherapist and practicing herbalist, Angelica offers an array of wellness therapies. From organic and advanced skincare services, henna adornment, natural cosmetic solutions, vibrational sound therapy sessions, herbal medicine and aromatherapy consultations.
ALANA P. HAMMER
ADVANCED NEUROTHERAPY, PC
Newton Chiropractic & Wellness Centre 383 Elliot St, Ste F 250 Newton Upper Falls, MA 02464 617-964-3332, Fax: 617-332-7601 WellAdjusted.com
BRAIN TRAINING Jolene Ross, PhD 781-444-9115 RetrainYourBrain.com
Alana is a certified acupuncturist providing acupuncture, herbal medicine and adjunctive therapies to treat acute and chronic pain, orthopedic conditions, digestive disorders, stress and anxiety, sleep and cosmetic facial rejuvenations for over 10 years. See ads, pages 3 and 7.
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 24.
SYMMETRY NEURO-PATHWAY TRAINING Dianne Kosto, Founder & CEO 132 Central St, Ste 205A, Foxboro 844-272-4666 Dianne@SymmetryNeuroPT.com SymmetryNeuroPt.com
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY CENTRAL SQUARE HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Kristine Jelstrup, CMFT, CBK, LMT 126 Prospect St, Ste 5, Cambridge, 02139 617-833-3407 Kristine@CentralSquareHealthAnd Wellness.com CentralSquareHealthAndWellness.com Achieve optimal health physically, emotionally, nutritionally. Kristine uses a form of muscle response testing to identify and clear nervous system interference, facilitating optimal health.
Natural solutions to ADHD, autism, migraines, memory loss and mental fatigue do exist. SYMMETRY is helping families increase grades in school, become more productive at work, manage emotions with calmness and security, and regain their health. Book a free consultation at MeetMe.so/DianneKosto.
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CHIROPRACTIC NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTRE Julie Burke, DC 617-964-3332 Info@WellAdjusted.com WellAdjusted.com
We are a total wellness center open 7 days a week. We specialize in Gentle Non-Force Chiropractic (NSA), an assortment of massage modalities, HydroMassage, “Super Comfortable” custom orthotics, physical therapy, detoxifying ionic foot baths, and our latest wellness tool, BEMER (designed to improve circulation supporting the body’s natural self- regulating processes). See ads, pages 3 and 7.
COACHING LOVE CREATES MIRACLES 857-753-6819 ProsperityPrincess@gmail.com EdieBlue.com
Edie provides unique, boutique coaching tailored to help you create more love in your life. Courses by Edie: The ABC’s of Love, The “Write” Way to Love, Soulmate Bootcamp, Knotty Minds: Knotty Bodies. Call Edie for a free 10-min session to see if you are ready to make changes that last. See ad, page 19.
TAKE THE LEAP COACHING
Kim Childs 1025 Mass Ave, Arlington, MA 02476 617-640-3813 Kim@KimChilds.com KimChilds.com Need help clarifying and realizing your desires? Asking “What’s next?” or “How do I get started?” Kim is a certified life and career coach specializing in Positive Psychology, creativity, and midlife transitions, to help clients create more personally fulfilling, meaningful and empowered lives. Initial consultations are free.
December 2019
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COLON HYDROTHERAPY GROTON WELLNESS Katryn Miller, MEd, LMT, Colon Hydrotherapist 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com
Katryn has always held a deep desire to learn about the body and how it works. After many years of running her own business, Katryn joined Groton Wellness to help others with Colon Hydrotherapy. She holds a training certificate on the Libbe Colon Hydrotherapy Device. See ad, page 17.
INTERNAL WELLNESS CENTER Liz Marcano-Pucillo 150 Wood Rd, Ste 403 Braintree, MA 02184 781-228-6915 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 13.
COMPOUNDING & WELLNESS PHARMACY
DINNO HEALTH
Acton Pharmacy 563 Massachusetts Ave, Acton, MA 01721 978-263-3901 Keyes Drug 2090 Commonwealth Ave Newton, MA 02466 617-244-2794 West Concord Pharmacy 1212 Main St, Concord, MA 01742 978-369-3100 DinnoHealth.com For more than a quarter of a century, Dinno Health has been a trusted provider of pharmacy services and is committed to providing the highest quality of individualized care for each customer. At our three independent pharmacies, we offer prescriptions, compounded medications, medical supplies, homeopathic remedies, vitamins and vaccines. See ad, page 10.
JOHNSON COMPOUNDING AND WELLNESS
John Walczyk 577 Main St, Waltham, MA 02452 781-893-3870 • Fax: 781-899-1172 John@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 ad, back cover.
BIRD’S HILL COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
401 Great Plain Ave, Needham, MA 02492 781-449-0550 Pharmacist@BirdsHillPharmacy.com BirdsHillPharmacy.com Familyowned and -operated since 1960, we have evolved from a traditional pharmacy to a worldwide compounding and nutritional resource. Our unique one-on-one patient consultations produce a full understanding of your health needs. You, your physician, and one of our compounding pharmacists work as partners to ensure that you will receive the best care possible.
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DENTIST DENTISTRY BY DR. DAVID Amparo M. David, DMD 563 Main St, Bolton, MA 978-779-2888 BoltonDental.com
We look beyond our patients’ teeth in order to improve both their smiles and their quality of life. Our practice offers full preventive services: biological, holistic, functional dentistry, ozone therapy, reconstructive dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, periodontics, endodontics, dental sleep medicine, implant dentistry, in addition to TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders) therapy. See ad, page 7.
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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 29.
GROTON WELLNESS
Dr. Apoorva J. Shah, DDS 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com Health-focused biological dentist specializing in cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, biological dentistry, mercury amalgam removal, digital dentistry and Invisalign. Dr. Shah is certified in Invisalign and has experience with CAD/ CAM digital technology. He has become increasingly knowledgeable about the mouth-body connection and is excited to offer holistic options to his patients. See ad, page 17.
GROTON WELLNESS
Dr. G. Robert “Bob” Evans, DMD 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com Health-focused general dentist at Groton Wellness specializing in biological dentistry, oral surgery, chelation therapy and safe mercury removal. Groton Wellness is a 26-chair dental practice, incorporating functional medicine, a detoxification spa, an organic cafe, and energy medicine center promoting total wellness. See ad, page 17.
GROTON WELLNESS
Dr. Jean Marie Nordin, DDS, IBDM, ND 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com Health-focused general dentist, integrative biologic dental medicine and naturopathic dentist specializing in biological dentistry, oral surgery, sleep solutions, chelation therapy and safe mercury removal. Certified trainer of Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) developed by the Benson-Henry Institute in conjunction with Harvard Medical School. Dr. Nordin now teaches staff and other healthcare providers. See ad, page 17.
FRENECTOMY (TONGUE/LIP TIE RELEASE)
DIVINE HEALING BHVANA’S WELLNESS GROUP
512 Main St, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 BhavnaSrivastava@BhWellnessGroup.com BhWellnessGroup.com Come and heal from traumas, emotional, mental, spiritual pain, money blueprint and past lives. Become empowered to live abundantly. Allow Bhavna to unleash your full Divine purpose. See ad, page 13.
ECO-FRIENDLY HAIR SALON KIMBERLY BRUNO SALON Reading, MA 01867 781-779-8333 KimberlyBruno.com
DENTISTRY BY DR. DAVID Martin Kaplan, DDS 563 Main St, Bolton, MA 978-779-2888 BoltonDental.com
Specializing in pediatric dentistry, Dr. Kaplan uses the latest technology available to diagnose and treat infants as well as children and adults. In 2015 he was instrumental in developing the first in the country “Infant Laser Frenectomy” training class through the continuing education department at Tufts Dental School and is an international leader in the field of dental laser surgery. See ad, page 7.
FUNCTIONAL DIETITIAN
Kimberly Bruno Salon is a boutique ecofriendly hair salon created out of love for our planet and animals. This Certified Green Circle Salon is committed to offering services using high quality products. Experience cruelty-free, vegan products containing organic ingredients, keeping you and the planet beautiful. See ad, page 19.
ENERGY HEALING NATURAL HEALING RESONANCE
Kristi Borst, RM, PhD Danvers MA; Wells, ME; by phone worldwide ReleaseItAll.US Release what no longer serves you physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. Kristi's Perspective Reboot integrative healing and spiritual abilities shift pain/dis-ease, feeling lost/ stuck. Private and couple’s sessions. Experience greater wellness, joy, self-mastery.
BRIDGITTE CARROLL, MS, RDN Johnson Compounding & Wellness Bridgitte@NaturalCompounder.com 781-893-3870 x 149
Bridgitte is experienced and passionate about helping individuals improve their well-being with food and lifestyle changes. Specialties include gastrointestinal issues, inflammatory conditions, anti-aging and weight management although she has worked with people of all ages with many diseases. See ad, back cover.
FUNCTIONAL ORTHODONTICS GROTON WELLNESS
Dr. Samantha Bogle, DMD, MDS 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com Functional orthodontist specializing in orthodontics, dentofacial orthopedics, braces and Invisalign. Dr. Bogle loves creating beautiful smiles for her patients with a specific emphasis on early treatment in children to improve facial growth and development. She believes focusing on the airway, proper breathing and early structural intervention can reduce the need for orthodontic treatment later in life. Prevention is key. See ad, page 17.
HEALTH COACH YOUR WELLNESS SCOUT Kirsten Wright-Cirit 919-593-2943 YourWellnessScout@gmail.com YourWellnessScout.com
Your Wellness Scout provides coaching, resources, and tips to set wellness goals and integrate sustainable solutions and practices without tipping the work, life, family balance.
HORMONE BALANCING FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE GROTON WELLNESS Dr. Henri Balaguera, MD 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com
Functional medicine doctor and clinical director of Groton Wellness. Specializes in functional medicine, chronic and infectious disease, autoimmune disorders, functional nutrition, pulmonary disorders, sleep issues, cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunction, natural hormone replacement and preventative medicine. Mindfulness and meditation are at the foundation of his core values. See ad, page 17.
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BELLA NATURAL HEALTH
Dawna Jones, MD, FACOG 427 Washington St, Norwell, MA 02061 781-829-0930 BellaNaturalHealth.com Board-certified MD in gynecology and integrative medicine. Hormone balancing, nutrition and detoxification are keys to optimal health. See ad, page 13.
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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
MIND-BODY MEDICINE BODYMIND REPATTERNING
Alison Shaw APRN, LMT, CEH 109 Massachusetts Ave Lexington, MA 02420 781-646-0686 Alison@BodymindRepatterning.com BodymindRepatterning.com An innovative blend of bodycentered counseling, integrative bodywork and energy medicine to uncover and release bodymind patterns that limit your life and health. See ad, page 12.
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 30.
JAW PAIN (TMJ) DR. YASMIN’S TMJ SLEEP CENTER 284 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446 617-684-1883 YasminChebbiDMD.com
Do you suffer from jaw pain or a locked jaw? Do you grind your teeth at night? Do you have headaches, ear pain, facial pain? Do you snore or wake up tired? We can help. Mention Natural Awakenings for 20% off your first visit. See ad, page 27.
MARTIAL ARTS
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE GARY KRACOFF, RPH & NMD
PERINATAL WELLNESS LIFE GATE HOLISTIC LIVING 66 Boston Rd, Groton, MA 01450 978-448-0405 Info@LifeGateLiving.com LifeGateLiving.com
Perinatal services and resources include acupuncture, therapeutic massage, psychotherapy, energy healing, integrative health coaching, perinatal yoga, perinatal support groups, lactation support services, and labor and postpartum doula services. .
PHYSICAL THERAPY NEWTON PHYSICAL THERAPY
Johnson Compounding and Wellness 781-893-3870 Gary@NaturalCompounder.com
383 Elliot St, Door F, Ste 250 Newton Upper Falls, MA 02464 617-916-1655 NewtonPT.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 ad, back cover.
Manual physical therapy which includes craniosacral therapy incorporates the mind-body connection for holistic healing which is essential for effective treatment of chronic pain and/or stress. Effective manual therapy treatment for acute or chronic pain or injury enables therapeutic exercise to be significantly more effective for rehabilitation. See ads, pages 3 and 7.
BOSTON MARTIAL ARTS CENTER 161 Harvard Ave, Ste 4E, Boston 617-789-5524 BostonMartialArtsCenter.com
The Boston Martial Arts Center has been actively training and teaching in the Boston area for over 25 years. We have grown from a small, dedicated group of practitioners into a full-fledged martial arts school devoted to training quality individuals in the best martial arts and self-defense available anywhere. See ad, page 27.
MASSAGE NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTRE 383 Elliot St, Ste 250 617-964-3332 WellAdjusted.com
GROTON WELLNESS Candace Scholl, ND 493-495 Main St, Groton 978-449-9919 GrotonWellness.com
Dr. Scholl is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor in MA and NH treating patients of all ages using scientific, research-based naturopathic medicine as the foundation. Finding the root cause of chronic and autoimmune diseases. She specializes in craniosacral therapy, detoxification, bio-identical hormone therapy, Lyme disease, diabetes, anti-aging, joint disorders, adrenal fatigue, thyroid disorders, endocrine imbalance, epigenetic assessment, cardiovascular health, digestive health, cognitive imbalances, arthritis and more. See ad, page 17.
Deep-tissue, medical, sports, Swedish and therapeutic massage, shiatsu, reiki & hydro-massage in a full-service Wellness Centre, also featuring chiropractic, acupuncture, Facial Rejuvenation, Facelift Acupuncture and detox footbath. See ads, pages 3 and 7.
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REIKI BOSTON REIKI MASTER
34 Lincoln St, Newton Highlands 617-633-3654 BostonReikiMaster.com Are you stressed from the pressure of your job, home life, kids or an illness? Do you want to feel calm and relaxed? Experience reiki. Certified Reiki Master/Teacher with over 20 years’ experience in energy medicine providing pure Usui Reiki healing/relaxation sessions.
BRENNER REIKI HEALING
324 Central St, Newton 02466 617-244-8856 Elise@BrennerReikiHealing.org BrennerReikiHealing.org Providing you with reiki healing sessions, reiki meditation, and reiki training to support you in reaching your goals of mind-body-spirit wellness and wholeness.
THERMOGRAPHY
CRYSTAL SOUND HEALING/ SACRED SONG REIKI 978-897-8846 SacredSongReiki@yahoo.com SacredSongReiki.com
METROWEST THERMAL IMAGING
Services include: (John of God) Crystal Bed Healing with Crystal Singing Bowls; Sound Healing; Sound Healing with Reiki; reiki. Release stress, reduce pain, boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, more energy, clarity of thought. sessions and appropriate referrals where necessary.
SLEEP APNEA (SNORING) DR. YASMIN’S HOLISTIC DENTAL 284 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446 617-684-1883 YasminChebbiDMD.com
Do you have sleep apnea but hate your CPAP? Instead you could be wearing an Oral Sleep Appliance that stops sleep apnea without wires, machines or electricity. It is approved by the FDA and is covered by most medical insurances. Stop snoring and start sleeping better. Ask us how. See ad, page 27.
TANTRA/SACRED SEXUALITY
Susan Shaw Saari, LAc, 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 15.
WELLNESS CENTER NEWTON CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTRE Julie Burke, DC 617-964-3332 Info@WellAdjusted.com
We are a total wellness center open 7 days a week. We specialize in Gentle Non-Force Chiropractic (NSA), an assortment of massage modalities, HydroMassage, “Super Comfortable” custom orthotics, physical therapy, detoxifying ionic foot baths, and our latest wellness tool, BEMER (designed to improve circulation supporting the body’s natural self-regulating processes). See ads, pages 3 and 7.
WELLNESS RESOURCES BETH GARDNER
Acton Pharmacy Keyes Drug West Concord Pharmacy BGardner@DinnoHealth.com 508-259-7851 Certified lifestyle educator and the director of health and wellness at Acton Pharmacy, Keyes Drug and West Concord Pharmacy. Beth Gardner works one-on-one with patients to help create ways to improve diet and overall health as a means for disease and illness prevention. See ad, page 10.
YOGA 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.
SACRED TEMPLE ARTS
Sacha L. Fossa, Masters Health Arts & Sciences, Certified Sex & Tantric Educator, Licensed Erotic Blueprint Coach, Healing Arts Practitioner 978-309-9399 SacredTempleArts.com Ready to have better sex, and love your life more, partnered or not? Holistic cutting-edge sex, intimacy and relationship coaching, energy and bodywork, for your sexual healing and empowerment. In person and/or virtual sessions and programs. See ad, page 24.
Wishing You the Joys of the Season
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EXPIRES 12/31/19