NALAMAG AUGUST 2016 by NALAMAG

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Growing Up Empowered

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Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves

Earth Guardians Kids Say No to Global Warming

Dr. Trip Goolsby

Patient-Partners In Healthcare

Benefits

Of Lymphatic Massage

August 2016 | New Orleans Edition | NALAmag.com natural awakenings

August 2016

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contents Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more

balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge 6 5 newsbriefs information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal 6 healthbriefs growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle. 8 globalbriefs 10 ecotip 11 BENEFITS OF 11 therapyspotlight LYMPHATIC MASSAGE 8 13 community spotlight 13 DR. TRIP GOOLSBY Helps Patients Become 14 recipeforsuccess Empowered Partners in Personalized Healthcare Approach 15 healthykids 15 18 consciouseating 10 16 15 YAY FOR PLAY 20 fitbody Ways to Spark a Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Creativity 24 calendar 29 localdirectory 16 GROWING UP 31 classifieds EMPOWERED by Sandra Sigur

by Judith Fertig

by April Thompson

advertising & submissions

Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves by Judith Fertig

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 504-975-0344 or email Publisher@NALAmag.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NALAmag.com. Deadline for Editorial: the 5th of the month.

18 A GOOD FOOD FIGHT

Keeping Food Out of the Trash Bin

by April Thompson

20 JUST WALK

22 Minutes a Day Boosts Well-Being by Randy Kambic

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Publisher@NALAmag.com Call 504-975-0344. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. 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 1-239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 1-239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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22 BARNET BAIN ON HOW

CREATIVITY CAN SAVE THE WORLD Fresh Thinking Challenges Rigid Mindsets by Linda Sechrist

23 EARTH GUARDIANS

Kids Say No to Global Warming by April Thompson

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August 2016

letterfromtheeditor One of my mother’s favorite sayings is contact us Publisher Melissa Burbank Editor-in-Chief Coco Kunstman Design & Production Chelsea Rose Distribution Big Art's Distribution Editors Michelle Bense Sara Peterson Natural Awakenings New Orleans, LA Edition: Tell NALAmag what you think Publisher@NALAmag.com Ph: 504-975-0344 Fax: 504-910-3011 © 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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“necessity is the mother of invention”. I always loved that sentiment. I think it is because it feeds my procrastination habit. I always feel that when I absolutely have to get something done, either by the absence of time or the push of necessity, I figure out a way to make it work. I know I am not alone in feeling like my best work happens under pressure. It is almost a chemical reaction in my brain that forces me to look at a problem or task differently. I go into problem-solving mode. What is the best—and, because time is usually a factor—most efficient way to get the job done? Many of my friends and family also carry this procrastination gene. I tell them the same phrase that rings through my head when a task seems daunting: just start. There are numerous people that can testify that staring at a blank screen, watching the curser blink endlessly, unable to summon the perfect way to start, is beyond frustrating. I try to remind myself when this happens to me that you can’t improve on nothing. Start something before you know if it will turn into anything. My mind draws an artistic correlation with these daily tasks and the works of Claude Monet. Monet was the master, and some would argue the father, of the impressionist movement. He would venture out into his gardens and watch for hours until the light was perfect. This was his metaphorical blank screen, watching and waiting for his creativity to strike. When he deemed the light perfect, he would spring into action, painting his stunning water lilies, landscapes and vistas in a furious race against the light. Monet would try to capture every aspect of that moment that he could. Only later would he go back and tweak those first thoughts of paint into the stunning compositions that still inspire creativity in the hearts of all who view his works. What does it take to be creative? Starting. If you begin to mold something out of nothing, creativity will inevitably follow. As humans, we have a natural need to create. Whether it is a perfectly created Excel worksheet or canvas painted with your imagination, it is a creation of your own making. As so many of us, including myself, need to be reminded: stop waiting out of fear that it won’t be perfect. When the light is right, go at it with your whole heart. Who knows; a masterpiece may follow. Happy creating,

Coco Coco Kunstman, Editor-in-Chief

newsbriefs

Transform NOLA Yoga Teacher Training

Learn More About Soul School Yoga Teacher Training Program

oul School, running from October 2016 to April 2017, is an annual, one-of-a-kind interdisciplinary teacher training program facilitated by Sean Johnson and Mitchel Bleier that offers depth, fun, community and an opportunity to transform one’s life through committed practice in yoga and teaching. A special information meeting, open to anyone interested in learning more about Soul School, will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m., August 28, at Wild Lotus Yoga. At the meeting, Johnson and Bleier will describe Soul School and answer questions, and alumni will share their experience. Applications for the program, available at the meeting and at Wild Lotus Yoga afterward, are due on September 16. The program is designed for dedicated yoga students who wish to enhance their connection to yoga and spirituality, aspiring yoga teachers and current teachers who are seeking to bring more depth to their practice and teaching through continued study. Soul School creates an opportunity for trainees to build a strong foundation for teaching yoga in a soulful, imaginative and integrative way. Graduates who fulfill all requirements of the program will receive a certificate and be eligible to register at the 200-hour level as a yoga teacher with The Yoga Alliance, the national education and support organization for yoga in the U.S. Location: 2372 St. Claude Ave., 2nd floor, New Orleans. For more information, visit WildLotusYoga.com.

ransform NOLA’s next 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training begins September 12. This training is a mentally, physically and emotionally challenging process designed to enable serious students to become inspired teachers. The application deadline is August 31. The unique weekday schedule allows participants to attend while kids are in school, as well as leaving time to work a weekend job. Those interested in taking the next steps in their personal practice, or making a new career based on ancient practices, are encouraged to sign up. Location: 8422 Oak St., New Orleans. For more information, call 985-6402648 or visit TransformNOLA.com.

The Heart of Buddha’s Teaching with Anam Thubten

he Tibetan House will host a most distinguished guest, Anam Thubten, founder and spiritual advisor of Dharmata Foundation, who will teach the heart of Buddhism by awakening of mind and heart, from 7 to 9 p.m., September 8, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., September 11. Part of the teaching centers around inner transformation, Anam Thubten asserting that the awakened mind sees the wonder, magic, beauty and joy of human existence. According to this teaching, the awakened heart can embrace all circumstances of this life with love and compassion. Thubten invites everyone to look into their karmic and psychological habitual tendencies, and to undo them so such profound awakening is possible for all. Thubtan grew up in Tibet and at an early age began to practice in the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. He teaches widely in the U.S. and occasionally abroad, and currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. Cost: $10 suggested donation, Sept. 8; $50, Sept. 11; no one is turned away for lack of funds. Location: 4900 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans. To register, call 504897-9339 or email Info@TibetanHouse.com. For more information about Anam Thubten, visit Dharmata.org.

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Submit information online at Publisher@NALAmag.com Submittal deadline is the 5th of the month. natural awakenings

August 2016

healthbriefs

Aromatherapy Soothes Allergies

Young Adult Insomnia Linked to Chronic Pain

esearch from the University of Groningen, in The Netherlands, has found that young adults between 19 and 22 years old that don’t sleep well may have more chronic pain later in life. The researchers followed 1,750 people for three years. About 50 percent of the participants that had sleep problems at the beginning of the study still had them at the end of the study. Roughly 38 percent of those reported chronic pain after three years. This compares to 14 percent of those that didn’t have sleep problems at the start of the research, but reported chronic pain at its conclusion. Overall, the study found that sleep problems were associated with more musculoskeletal pains, headaches and abdominal pain. The relationship occurred in both men and women, but was stronger among women.

Legumes Facilitate Weight Loss

review of 21 clinical trials has found that just one daily serving of legumes can facilitate an average drop of three-quarters of a pound over a six-week period. Published in the journal Obesity, the research analyzed results from studies that tested a total of 940 men and women eating about three-quarters of a cup of beans, lentils, chickpeas and other legumes each day. The subjects reported feeling nearly one-third fuller on average after eating about 5.6 ounces of these foods with their meals, compared with a control group’s diet. These beneficial legumes may also reduce body fat percentages. According to senior study author and physician John Sievenpiper, Ph.D., of St. Michael’s Hospital’s Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Center and the University of Toronto, “Ninety percent of weight-loss diets fail, resulting in weight regain, which may be due in part to hunger and food cravings. Knowing which foods make people feel fuller longer may help them lose weight and keep it off.”

Georganna Ranglack, DVM, PhD Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

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esearch from Korea’s Chung-Ang University has found that inhaling aromatherapy infusions comprising a combination of sandalwood, frankincense and ravensara for five minutes twice daily significantly reduces symptoms of allergies after seven days. The researchers tested 54 men and women, half of which were tested using a placebo of almond oil. Total nasal symptom score (TNSS) and rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) results were both significantly lower in the aromatherapy group. TNSS scores decreased by more than half and RQLQ scores decreased by more than 60 percent. Scores for fatigue and sleep quality also improved in the aromatherapy group. “These findings indicate that inhalation of certain aromatherapy oils help relieve perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms, improve rhinitis-specific quality of life and reduce fatigue in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis,” Chung-Ang University’s Seo Yeon Choi and Kyungsook Park explain in their paper.

joy

Breastfed Babies Have Fewer Colds and Ear Infections

study from the University of Texas has found that increased breastfeeding decreases ear infections among nursing children. The researchers followed 367 babies between 1 and 12 months old from 2008 through 2014. The scientists analyzed family history traits of smoking, ear infections, breastfeeding and formula feeding. Nose and throat mucosal samples were taken throughout the study period to identify infections, and parents informed the researchers whenever the baby experienced an infection. The study was led by Dr. Tasnee Chonmaitree, a pediatrics professor from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. “We clearly showed that frequent upper respiratory infections, carriage of bacteria in the nose and lack of breastfeeding are major risk factors for ear infections,” he states. “Prolonged breastfeeding was associated with significant reductions in both colds and ear infections, a common complication of colds.”

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August 2016

globalbriefs

LOL TX

Hope for a New Generation

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

Scrambling Species

Climate Change Favors Some Birds over Others Decades of data show that climate change is manipulating the way avian species move across continents. For instance, the orchard oriole is losing prime habitat in the South, but gaining more up north. Thousands of species worldwide face the same dilemma. Specific birds need a particular habitat, such as open spaces or groves of trees, and some of their traditionally preferred spots are becoming unlivable. England’s Durham University ecologist Phillip Stephens, along with researchers from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the U.S. Geological Survey, have compiled nearly half a century’s worth of occurrence data from thousands of citizen scientists. Birders submitted their observations to the Pan-European Common Birds Monitoring Scheme and the North American Breeding Bird Survey for 145 terrestrial bird species native to Europe and 380 species native to the United States. “We used that information to generate a prior expectation for whether the species would’ve been advantaged or disadvantaged by climate change,” says Stephens. The predictions were compared with actual bird abundance data from 1980 through 2010, and the populations that were expected to lose suitable habitat declined, while those expected to find their habitats improve increased. He states, “Recent climate change has already favored one set of species over another.” Read the report at ClimateChange.Birdlife.org.

Despite being less confident than their elders, a new study by PsychTests.com, in Montreal, reveals that Millennials (those born between 1980 and 2000) are an ambitious and tenacious generation that continues to prove potential critics wrong. Labeled by some as self-entitled, arrogant and immature from being coddled by hovering parents, the company’s research says that Millennials are not afraid to push themselves to achieve lofty goals, work hard or take on difficult challenges. Collecting data from 1,035 people that took their Ambition Test, the researchers looked at the differences between Millennials, Generation X (born between 1960 and 1980) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1960) in terms of their levels of aspiration, persistence and sense of self-efficacy. The study reveals that while Millennials lagged a little behind the other two generations on some factors related to ambition, the potential of these young adults should not be underestimated. “One can argue that Millennials’ hopeful and determined nature is a case of idealism,” explains Ilona Jerabek, Ph.D., president of PsychTests. “Some have just started out in the workforce, so they’re eager to prove themselves, which could also mean that at some point they’ll be blindsided by the reality of what it’s like to be out there in the real world.”

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Good Reads

Fiction Readers Have More Empathy The love of books may begin at any age, but for most, it starts in childhood. Now, scientists are studying the effects of reading on the brain with MRIs, polls, surveys and experiments. The results indicate that readers of fiction are more empathetic toward others. By engaging with a story, they are temporarily placing themselves in a character’s shoes, thus fostering empathy in real life, and literary reading amplifies this effect. According to a Stanford University study, reading a challenging book also helps us become smarter, as well as more empathetic. By attempting to tackle harder books, we create new connections in our minds that we might not have done otherwise. Neuroscientist Bob Dougherty remarks, “The right patterns of ink on a page can create vivid mental imagery and instill powerful emotions.” David Comer Kidd, author of another related study, observes, “Like opening a window to let fresh air into our home, literature opens up our minds to the myriad ideas that we wouldn’t be able to experience on our own. We can pause to analyze the experiences depicted as if they were our own, expanding our experience of the world.”

SEPT YOGA IS THE POETRY OF MOVEMENTS

Show Stopper

Circuses Cease Exotic Animal Acts The Ringling Brothers Circus made good on a promise to retire their last contingent of performing elephants to the Center for Elephant Conservation, in Polk City, Florida, with the last such show streamed worldwide in May. While Ringling will retain the services of tigers, lions, leopards, horses, camels, dogs and kangaroos, the Mexican Congress has voted to prohibit exotic animals under big tops across their country. That means no more tigers jumping through hoops, elephants used as props or monkeys dressed in tiny outfits. The bill requires circuses to report the wildlife they own, which would then be made available to interested zoos. Source: The New York Times

Today’s business climate poses new challenges. Advertise your products and services in our

Green Serenity

September Yoga & Music Issue

Sikkim, the northeastern Indian state located between Bhutan and Nepal, has rid its agricultural land of pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified crops and other artificial inputs on around 75,000 hectares, or about 300 square miles, of agricultural land, making it its country’s first organic state. Instead, farmers use natural alternatives such as green manure and compost. Twelve years ago, the Pawan Chamling-led government decided to make Sikkim an organic farming state through a declaration in the legislative assembly. After the entry of chemical inputs for farmland was restricted and their sale banned, farmers had no option but to go organic.

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Sikkim Now a Wholly Organic State

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August 2016

ecotip Vegan Leather

Walk the Talk with Cruelty-Free Shoes

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With a wealth of luxury faux alternatives available in today’s market, shoe lovers can obtain the quality footwear they desire without incurring the usual environmental and human health costs. Vegan leather is an animal-friendly alternative to real leather, derived from synthetic materials. No cow, sheep, goat or any other animal is killed in order to make vegan leather shoes, and for most people, that’s a good enough reason to choose it over the “real” thing. Provided that we pick the right maker, it also boasts the added advantage of being far more eco-friendly and sustainable than conventional leather. Elizabeth Olsen, founder of the luxury vegan shoe brand Olsenhaus, says, “The only difference is the materials—one uses a dead animal’s skin preserved in toxic chemicals; the other is made from a mixture of natural and manmade materials that are better for animals and the environment.” Twenty times more energy is used to create a leather hide than what is required for synthesized material. Conventional leather tanning involves treating animal skins with large quantities of toxic chemicals, including mineral salts, lead, cyanide and formaldehyde. This process wreaks havoc on our environment and the people that work in or live near tanneries, where chemical exposure can cause sickness or even be lethal. Olsen cautions that just because a shoe is vegan doesn’t mean it’s been made in an eco-friendly way. She uses natural and manmade materials such as linen, cotton, cork, wood, imitation leathers and recycled faux suede in her vegan shoe line. To assess the quality of vegan leather shoes, she advises, “Shoppers can feel the material and look at the grain to see if it’s faux; with faux, the grain will show a repeating pattern. Also, look for labels noting materials either inside or on the bottom of shoes.” Olsen notes that an online search for vegan fashion will yield everything from adult couture to baby clothes. Several websites and blogs report on the latest vegan products. She especially likes GirlieGirlArmy.com for vegan lifestyle and fashion.

therapyspotlight

Benefits of Lymphatic Massage by Sandra Sigur

he lymphatic system is responsible for detoxing the body by transporting lymph fluid (a nearly colorless fluid that bathes tissues to filter out impurities), consisting of water, fat, protein, nutrients and cellular debris such as bacteria, cancer cells, dead cells, metals and waste products, into the lymph nodes, where further filtering is done. Once the lymph is neutralized, healthier cells can be returned to the bloodstream, thereby enhancing the immune system and allowing the body to maintain homeostasis (inner balance). Unlike blood, which has a heart to pump it through our bodies, the lymphatic system—consisting of approximately 650 to 750 lymph nodes, both superficial and deep—is only circulated through muscular contraction/exercise, deep diaphragmatic breathing and/or lymphatic massage. By gently encouraging the movement of lymph fluid, toxins are eliminated from the body via sweat, urine and/or feces. Lymph flow enhances nerve function, brings blood to organs, supplies oxygen to cells, transports nutrients throughout the body, removes waste products, reduces swelling,

kills pathogens and more. Whether it is from an injury, elective/cosmetic or necessary medical/oral surgery, lymphatic massage helps to expedite healing by: boosting the immune system before surgery by removing toxins; reducing post-surgical/injury swelling; and promoting healing by improving nerve function and blood flow throughout the body. For example, a young man had five—yes, five—wisdom teeth pulled. By doing facial lymphatic massage and reflexology, along with taking Arnica tablets and applying Arnica cream to the face, he had little if any swelling, bruising or pain, and was eating the next day. Sandra Sigur is a certified reflexologist, lymphatic licensed massage therapist, yoga instructor, esthetician, aromatherapist and author of Healing Groovy. She is located at Theratique, in Mid City. Connect with her at 407-924-1401 or HealingGroovy@gmail.com.

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communityspotlight

Dr. Trip Goolsby Helps Patients Become Empowered Partners in Personalized Healthcare Approach by Diane Lefrant

nformed and engaged health goals. Based on patients are more likely the patient-partner’s to take ownership of current health status and their health and work in his or her ultimate health partnership with medgoal, a personalized ical doctors to build a program is designed and personalized and comeffectuated, while also prehensive health plan— minimizing pharmaoften including wellness ceutical administration promoting treatments that as much as possible. compliment conventional Components of each western medicine. patient-partner’s program Dr. Trip Goolsby include nutrition and Dr. Trip Goolsby is one who has been nutraceuticals, fitness, pioneering that approach. Goolsby hormonal and metabolic optimization develops a comprehensive treatment and Goolsby’s mind-body coaching exstrategy that applies an individualized pertise, coupled with effective biofeedintegrative approach with his patients, back methodology and various other combining western medicine with mind-body modalities. peer-reviewed and clinically supported “Additionally, our patient-partners complementary therapies. The results, successfully overcome issues such as he believes, are promising. obesity, anxiety, depression, stress, “Our patient-partners are having fatigue, loss of focus, loss of sexual deamazing successes in our program,” sire and/or performance, hypertension, says Goolsby. “We have patient-partners fibromyalgia, diabetes, chronic pain who have reversed the diabetes that has and tobacco use,” says Goolsby. plagued their health for decades, and According to Goolsby, many of others who have lost and maintained his patient-partners successfully take weight loss that they were unable to the Infinite Health approaches they use achieve through other dieting programs.” for their health and apply them to their For over 25 years, Goolsby has relationships and even their careers. been transcending healthcare approach- “Essentially, what we offer is empowes and outcomes, first in his community ered medicine for those patient-partners medical oncology and hematology who are ready to take their health back. practice, and, beginning in 2013, his inThose are the ones who transcend not tegrative health medical practice, Infinite only their health, but also their life.” Health Integrative Medicine Center— with locations in both New Orleans and For more information about Dr. Trip Lake Charles, Louisiana. Goolsby and Infinite Health Integrative Goolsby’s patients become emMedicine Center, call 855-700-4066 or powered partners in achieving their visit YourInfiniteHealth.com.

Goolsby’s patients become empowered partners in achieving their health goals. natural awakenings

August 2016

recipeforsuccess

StrawberryWatermelon Popsicles

othing can beat the heat in New Orleans like a frosty popsicle. However, so many times when we go to pop one open to cool off, the ingredient list stops us. Between the food coloring and the sugar content, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tempting to go without the cool treat. This is no longer a problem. With just a few whole ingredients and a popsicle tray, everyone can enjoy homemade, whole-fruit frozen treats. 3-4 cups of watermelon 1-2 cups of strawberries (fresh or frozen) Juice of 1 lime (zest a little of the peel as well) Simply blend all ingredients together until the mixture reaches a good pureed consistency. Pour into popsicle tray. Wait 3 to 4 hours, then enjoy fresh popsicles with no added sugar and no added color.

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healthykids drop in original thinking that happens as students move into early adolescence,” reports Daniel Pink, author of A Whole New Mind. Creativity isn’t only child’s play; parents also could do well to infuse their own lives with its discoveries and delights. “Through creativity, parents can reawaken a sense of wonder and joy, and nurture characteristics like patience,” says Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way for Parents: Raising Creative Children.

YAY FOR

PLAY

Ways to Spark a Child’s Creativity by April Thompson

hether it’s playing dress-up, making forts from sofa cushions or drawing pictures, creative moments can define and distinguish a happy childhood. Yet it’s not all just fun and games, according to experts. Childhood creativity, nurtured both in the classroom and at home, is crucial for developing qualities such as sound decision-making, flexible thinking and mental resiliency. Analyzing more than 150 studies across the fields of psychology, neuroscience, education and business management, the Center for Childhood Creativity, in Sausalito, California, found many important life skills are affiliated with a creative upbringing. The resulting white paper, Inspiring a Generation to Create, underscores that rather than simply being an innate trait, creativity can be taught. “Creativity should be an integral part of every child’s education. The research shows that we can avoid the

Engaging Parents

Cameron wrote the book in part to guide her own daughter, actress and film director Domenica Cameron-Scorsese, in her creative journey through motherhood. While many such works focus on art projects for kids, Cameron’s book emphasizes activities that put creative fuel in the parental tank. For example, she recommends parents take up the ritual of “morning pages”; writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness thoughts the first thing each morning. Jean Van’t Hul, author of The Artful Parent, started a daily sketchbook practice for herself and to set an example for her kids. “I like that the kids see me creating regularly and they’ve joined in a couple times. I also want to get over my self-limited belief that I’m not a good artist,” remarks Van’t Hul, who blogs at ArtfulParent.com.

Engaging Kids

A family ritual, like a bedtime story or relationship with a pet, can be re-imagined to inspire household members to co-create together. “Instead of always reading to my kids, we take turns making up stories by ‘giving’ each other three things, like an airplane, a shovel and a pair of pants, which we have to use in a story,” says Nicole Corey Rada, a working mother of two in Richmond, Virginia. “Sometimes, we pretend our pets are having conversations, and use different voices and accents to express what they might be saying, given their

Every child and parent is creative. Exercising our creativity is an act of faith. ~ Julia Cameron circumstance at the time. This is a family favorite; we laugh constantly.” Mark Runco, Ph.D., a University of Georgia professor of gifted and creative education, founder of the Creativity Research Journal and advisor to the Center for Childhood Creativity, notes the importance of balancing unstructured and structured activities, creating space for both individual expression and creative collaboration. To foster the former, Van’t Hul encourages “strewing”, which she refers to as “the art of casually yet strategically leaving invitations for learning and creativity out for kids to discover on their own.” Invitations to play could be a basket of non-toxic blocks, a recycled-paper sketchpad opened to a blank page or some nature finds from a walk in the woods. As an example of the latter, Cameron suggests that parents lead kids on a weekly creative expedition, allowing the kids to choose a new place to aimlessly explore such as a park, bookstore, pet shop or museum. According to the author, that sense of shared adventure, fostered in a safe space, naturally nurtures the creative process, both for now and the future. “If you make art the center, insisting that kids be creative, they may feel a sense of pressure,” advises Cameron. “If you make inspiration the center, it spills over into art.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

natural awakenings

August 2016

GROWING UP EMPOWERED Helping Kids Step into Their Best Selves by Judith Fertig

he plugged-in, stressed-out world that challenges adults can be even more difficult for teens in the throes of hormones, peer pressure and a selfie culture. Parents can help their children thrive and become empowered individuals by nurturing desirable character traits such as resourcefulness, resilience, perseverance, self-reliance, independence, empathy and social competence. Child psychologist Michele Borba, Ed.D., of Palm Springs, California, is a former classroom teacher and the mother of three grown children who dispenses advice at MicheleBorba.com/blog. Her main parenting focus is character education, as reflected in her latest book, Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World. “Tune in to what your kids love,” advises Borba. “Then find learning experiences that help them develop traits they need to be happy, productive adults.” 16

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This positive parenting approach— accentuating youthful desires and strengths, instead of deficiencies and weaknesses—helps young people develop a secure footing in life. “Kids are driven by their hearts,” observes Borba. “A positive parent doesn’t do the cookie-cutter approach, as in, ‘That’s what worked for other kids in the neighborhood,’ nor even reference what the parent did as a teen.” Teens also impose upon themselves, thinking that being trendy, beautiful, rich and famous are valuable life goals. “The positive parent looks at each child as an individual, listens to what really makes them light up, and then supports that.”

Dreaming Big

Landmark Worldwide, active in 125 cities globally, is committed to the idea that people everywhere have the possibility of achieving success, fulfillment

and greatness. Corporate leaders praise its programs for helping participants relate, communicate and perform well. Josselyne Herman-Saccio, a Landmark program leader in New York City, remarks, “Every one of us has a dream, yet too many of us choose our path with fear, disguised as practicality. Our kids might get the message that, ‘You don’t do your dream as your career.’” That thought can leave anyone feeling like something is missing. After putting off her own career as a singer and ultimately deciding to go for it, Herman-Saccio recorded That’s What Love Can Do with her group Boy Krazy. The song rose to the top of the pop charts in 1993. That empowering experience helped her decide to help others—including her own three children—fulfill their dreams. Today, Herman-Saccio leads the Landmark Forum for adults, and the company also offers a version of the course for 13-to-17-year-olds, an interactive, three-day program in cities across the U.S. It helps teens first understand their existing patterns of thoughts and behaviors and then move forward to create new possibilities and face new challenges and discover a new level of power, freedom, self-expression and peace of mind. For a teen to register, a parent or legal guardian must register for or have completed the organization’s adult forum and provide permission. Teens planning for life after high school get help identifying their career passion at schools such as Upland Hills School, in Oxford, Michigan. Its emphasis on experiential learning culminates in a senior project the teen produces, whether it’s writing a novel, building a storage shed or volunteering at the local senior citizen center. Each must someway contribute to the community. Beginning with the student’s dream, they must work their way through obstacles, setbacks and all the steps required to bring a dream to reality.

Emotional Literacy/Healthy Risk-Taking

Sometimes parents need to address a teen’s longing for friends and social connections. For youths that especially need to nurture their social skills, such

as high-functioning kids with autism or Asperger’s syndrome, film school might be an answer. At the Joey Travolta Film School and summer camp, in Lafayette, California, kids work together to make a movie; they start with a script, create sets, operate the camera, act and direct. At the Hunter School, in Romney, New Hampshire, kids dealing with attention challenges can nurture mindbody awareness, energetic mindfulness and sensory integration. It all helps them get to know themselves and relate better to others. Outdoor skills can help teens develop healthy risk-taking behaviors, as well as teach resilience, perseverance and self-reliance. SheJumps (SheJumps. org), in Salt Lake City, offers young women 6 to 18 years old an opportunity to master outdoor living skills, boost confidence and encourage leadership via collaborating with strong female role models. Fun activities include mountain biking, skiing and trailblazing.

Leadership

Over time, experiential learning can help youths develop leadership skills. Lander, Wyoming’s National Outdoor Leadership School, a gap-year program for high school graduates taking a year off before college, offers courses lasting two weeks, several months or even a full year. Activities include sea kayaking, Alaskan mountain and glacier climbing and wilderness medicine. Teens already on track and wanting to develop additional leadership skills can tap into motivational speaker and self-help author Tony Robbins’ annual Unleash the Power Within youth leadership program event. Groups of youths

14 to 17 years old collectively participate to create individual breakthroughs, move beyond fears and limiting beliefs, accomplish goals and realize true desires. Application requirements include a good academic record, at least 20 hours of community service and a guidance counselor’s recommendation. Robbins maintains, “Grow and give is what life is all about.”

Service to Others

A way for youngsters 5 to 19 years old to become empowered is by joining a 4-H group in urban, suburban or rural areas. If we envision a farm kid raising a calf to show at the state fair, that’s still one facet of today’s 4-H, but far from the entire scope. Founded in 1902, 4-H is a global nonprofit dedicated to learning by doing; specialties now range from computer science and graphic design to leadership, healthy living and the performing arts. Positive mentoring by adults and developing community spirit ground 4-H clubs, camps and programs. Research by Tufts University’s Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development and America’s land-grant colleges and universities shows that people with a 4-H background are more likely to give back to their communities than others (see Tinyurl. com/YouthDevelopmentStudy). For Grammy-winner Jennifer Nettles, of Nashville, 4-H meant learning to perform at an early age, even flying to Chicago to do it. “I don’t know that I would be where I am today without 4-H,” she says. “Mentors there help you. They helped me with the skills of performing and learning about being on stage; they also taught me the importance of giving back.”

Sustainable Sustenance

Growing food for themselves and others can be a great adventure for teens, while fostering resourcefulness, perseverance and ecological awareness. Seventeen-year-old Katie Stagliano launched Katie’s Krops, in Summerville, South Carolina, several years ago based on her desire to fight hunger by growing food for people that need it. Today, the enterprise offers grants for youth in any area to start and maintain a local garden, provided they give away the produce to

the hungry. The initiative has grown to more than 50 gardens around the U.S. Both Mobile Urban Growers, in Mobile, Alabama, and Closer to Earth, in Oklahoma City, empower youth through exercising organic gardening skills, environmental and food justice advocacy and personal mentorship. Empowering experiences for teens don’t have to cost a lot or involve travel. “Dream big, but start small. Look around your own backyard, in your community,” says Borba. “Teens can learn to pay it forward in all kinds of ways. They can get together with their peers and take on a doable project to help others. They may even need to start by learning to self-regulate and manage stress by getting away from their phones and instead being outside getting exercise.” Casual family activities can provide opportunities for conversations about what teens want in life or what they’re worried about, and that opens the door for adults to step up to help mentor and empower their children. “Boys are more likely to talk while they’re doing something, like shooting baskets with you in the driveway,” observes Borba. “Girls are more likely to talk if it’s one-on-one.” Positive parents actively listen and then clarify what they heard from their teens, says Herman-Saccio. This information helps point the way forward, to more interactive dialogue, brainstorming, problem-solving, helpful experiences and eventually, youth empowerment. Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

natural awakenings

August 2016

consciouseating

A GOOD FOOD FIGHT Keeping Food Out of the Trash Bin by April Thompson

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s much as 40 percent of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, even as one in six Americans goes hungry. Instead of feeding people better, we are feeding the city dump. Of all types of trash, food consumes the most space in our municipal landfills, followed by plastic and paper. Rotting food then releases harmful methane, a greenhouse gas 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide. While food waste is a big problem, social entrepreneurs see a big opportunity. Around the country, they are working to reduce, recover and rethink discarded food valued at more than $160 billion a year. In the process, they are not only cutting food costs, but also creating jobs and fighting climate change. University of Maryland College Park alumna Cam Pascual co-founded the nonprofit Food Recovery Network (FRN) after watching hundreds of pounds of food hit the trash in her campus dining hall every night. Pascual and her colleagues mobilized a volunteer network to shuttle leftovers from the university to soup kitchens, donating 200 meals a night to feed the hungry. In the last five years, FRN has recovered more than 1 million pounds of food from 184 campuses in 42 states, proving that ingenuity and philanthropy can together fight the food waste travesty. “There are two major barriers to recovering leftover food; one is awareness, like helping businesses to understand the laws that protect them from liability,” says Pascual, the organization’s current director of innovation and operations. “The other is the labor involved. Universities are the perfect ecosystem for food recovery because college students have flexible schedules and are community service-minded, offering a ready supply of volunteers.”

Food waste reduction can be engineered in ways less noticeable to consumers, such as doing away with dining hall trays or using smaller plates. ~Cam Pascual The latest FRN initiative is a certification program to verify that farms and restaurants are engaging in food recovery that includes creating a toolkit to help restaurants safely recover leftover meals. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture recently set a goal of slashing food waste in half by 2030, with several supporting bills approaching the floor in Congress. The EPA food recovery hierarchy calls for reducing food waste first and foremost, with recovering food to feed people or animals as a fallback and utilizing landfills only as a last resort. “It’s one thing to set goals, but to realize those reductions in food waste, we have to change our behavior,” says Jonathan Bloom, author of American Wasteland: How America Throws Away Nearly Half of Its Food (and What We Can Do About It). Farms and households are the two largest generators of food waste, according to Bloom, whose blog at WastedFood.com offers dozens of beneficial tips for keeping food out of the trash bin. Fighting food waste starts before we go to the grocery. Bloom recommends consumers organize cupboards to know what’s already in stock, plan meals and stick to the shopping list. Post-purchase, easy tips include serving smaller portions, freezing leftovers and sharing surplus with friends and neighbors. Bloom’s website fans contribute more ideas like mixing veggie scraps into pet food or making them into soup stock. Using a smaller refrigerator keeps shoppers from bulking up while saving energy costs. The battle against wasted food needs to start at home, where small steps add up to big change. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

A FOOD FIGHT WORTH WINNING

Diverting Unsold Food from Full Landfills to Hungry Tummies

onathan Bloom speaks to college students around the U.S. explaining how fighting food waste requires changing beliefs and behaviors about food. “Recognize that taste should trump appearance, and don’t be so concerned with superficialities,” is a leading message. He cites replicable countermeasures like Hungry Harvest and Imperfect Produce, both predicated upon giving “ugly produce” a second chance. Based in Washington, D.C., and San Francisco’s Bay Area, respectively, these businesses offer low-cost home delivery of surplus produce, much of which is rejected for not meeting grocery stores’ high cosmetic standards. Here are more examples of the community pioneers working to divert food from overstuffed landfills to people. Daily Table (DailyTable.org) purchases excess food from growers, manufacturers and supermarkets to provide healthy food at fast-food prices for populations in need. The Dorchester, Massachusetts, retail grocery store offers fresh produce and grocery items, plus ready-to-cook and grab-n-go prepared meals. Fruitcycle (TheFruitcycle.com) makes healthy dried snacks from produce that would otherwise be tossed. The Washington, D.C.-area business also provides jobs for formerly incarcerated, homeless or otherwise disadvantaged women. Food Cowboy (FoodCowboy.com) reroutes food rejected by distributors. Truck drivers use a mobile app to communicate availability of such produce and find a charity or compost site to accept it. Re-Nuble (Re-Nuble.com) transforms food waste into affordable, organic fertilizer for hydroponic growing, thus contributing a solution to hunger. BluApple (TheBluApple.com) makes a plastic, fruitshaped device that can triple the shelf life of refrigerated food. It absorbs ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that accelerates spoilage.

natural awakenings

August 2016

fitbody

JUST WALK 22 Minutes a Day Boosts Well-Being by Randy Kambic

ven mainstream media have picked up on the many physical and mental benefits of walking, including weight loss, reduced stress, increased energy and better sleep, and that’s only the beginning. These additional compelling effects may well catalyze us to consistently step out for a daily walk, understanding that cumulative steps count, too. For more inspiration, check out this month’s race walking at the Summer Olympics. Walking helps heart health and diabetes. According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Call to Action on Walking program launched last fall, the risk of heart disease and diabetes can be significantly reduced via an average of 22 minutes a

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day of brisk walking. “Physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and even depression,” says Dr. JoAnn Manson, chief of the division of preventive medicine at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “Can you imagine if there was a pill that could simultaneously have all those benefits? Everyone would be clamoring for it.” Walking reduces anxiety and clears thinking. The results of a national survey of nearly 3,000 women between the ages of 42 and 52 published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that those that walked

The moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow. ~Henry David Thoreau as part of a regular physical activity showed fewer signs of depression compared with inactive women. The more physical activity a woman logged, the less likely she was to exhibit such symptoms, suggesting that moderate-to-intense levels of exercise may help protect against mental illness. The survey further revealed that 85 percent believe walking helps reduce any present anxiety and feelings of depression, while two-thirds reported that walking stimulates their thinking. Walking facilitates doctor-patient communication. Columbus, Ohio-based Walk with a Doc (WalkWithADoc.org) helps organize free walking events each month via 230 chapters nationwide. They’re led by physicians and other healthcare authorities. “It’s a casual forum in which to communicate and also learn about the health benefits of walking,” says Executive Director Rachael Habash, who’s aiming for 350 chapters by year’s end. When doctors emphasize the benefits of exercise, patients tend to listen. Walking boosts life performance. “Until the late 1960s, 90 percent of America’s children that lived up to a mile away walked to school. Today, that figure is 30 percent,” says Sheila Franklin, of the National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity, in The Walking Revolution documentary (scroll to the video at EveryBodyWalk.org). Experts warn that less walking by youngsters can create sedentary habits and lead to shortened life spans.

Daily walks to school boost cognitive performance in students, according to Mary Pat King, the National Parent Teacher Association director of programs and projects. Dr. Richard Jackson, a pediatrician, professor and chair of Environmental Health Sciences at the School of Public Health at University of California, Los Angeles,. and former environmental health director at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, reports that walking improves children’s learning ability, concentration, moods and creativity. Even lifelong walkers are moved to walk more by using a pedometer to track their steps and distance traveled, says Dr. Lauren Elson, a physical medicine and rehabilitation instructor at Harvard Medical School, who is also the medicaleditor of the recent Harvard Special Health Report Walking for Health (Health.Harvard.edu/walk). A meta-review of 26 studies found that using the device raised physical activity levels by nearly 27 percent, adding about 2,500 steps per day. Most stores that sell exercise equipment offer inexpensive pedometers, while smartphone users can download an app such as Moves, Breeze or Pedometer++. Apple’s iOS includes the free app Health. Walking leads to meaningful exchanges. Social connections and honest conversations between two people can be aided by walking outside instead of sitting inside. Clay Cockrell, a licensed clinical social worker in New York City, began walking with clients 12 years ago. He notes that casual venues like parks have been especially helpful for men. “They sometimes have a more difficult time making eye contact in sessions. Outside, they are looking where they are going, looking at nature, other people—the pressure is less. My own health has improved, as well,” he says. He shares ideas with the public and other therapists at WalkAndTalk.com to maximize the benefits. He sees moving the body forward along a path as a metaphor for moving forward in life. Adds Habash, “We believe that engaging in health should be simple and fun, like putting one foot in front of the other at every opportunity.” Randy Kambic is an Estero, FL, freelance writer and editor who regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings. natural awakenings

August 2016

wisewords

Barnet Bain on How Creativity Can Save the World Fresh Thinking Challenges Rigid Mindsets by Linda Sechrist

There is a fountain

of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age. ~Sophia Loren

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ilmmaker Barnet Bain’s credits include writer/director of Milton’s Secret, due out this fall, starring Donald Sutherland and Michelle Rodriguez and based on Eckhart Tolle’s book, producer of the Oscarwinning What Dreams May Come, executive producer of the Emmy-award nominee Homeless to Harvard and writer/producer of The Celestine Prophecy movie. Now, as author of The Book of Doing and Being: Rediscovering Creativity in Life, Love, and Work, he offers tools that everyone can use to develop a creativity practice designed to move us beyond our unconscious hand-me-down worldview, escape mental and emotional straightjackets and unlock great reservoirs of imagination. In so doing, we discover we can create anything we like; from a work of art to a fulfilling relationship.

Why is creativity so vital now? More than ever before, the nature of human consciousness today is making it apparent that we live inside stories and are pushing up against their edges. Strategies we’ve used to try to attain control, success or empowerment—structured ideas about how the world works, false assurances and guarantees about life— may not be working. As a result, we are mired in anxiety, stress and crises. It all offers us the opportunity to wake up to a larger truth that supersedes everything else: We must discover where our true safety resides, in building newly intelligent relationships within, as well as with

others, using capacities beyond logic and reason.

Why do we need an internal sense of safety? Safety found within shows up in our experiences of the world. As we become increasingly reliant on and confident in our creative skills to survive and thrive, we give ourselves the gift of resilience in chaos. Humanity’s creativity must be awakened in order to meet the challenges of a changing world and effectively address problems that appear to have too few solutions. The same inner awareness and skill set that give birth to the creative process can be applied to all aspects of life. Only through creative acts can we rise above unworkable paradigms, group thinking and earlier conditioning to create new and more fluid stories that grow from revised thoughts, beliefs, choices and attitudes that mature from the inside out. Deep, compassionate understanding of how we arrived at this point allows us to shed restrictions. It begins with facing the whys and wherefores of our most intimate consciousness.

How do male and female energies play into this? Everyone possesses both masculine and feminine energies; neither is better or less valuable than the other. Doing and acting characterize masculine energy, which makes things. It builds, structures, orders and files. Being

characterizes the feminine, womb-like energy, pregnant with possibilities and subsequent manifested outcomes. The capacities to imagine, feel and receive also are feminine. In the dance with the masculine, the harmony of these feminine qualities is the primal desire for and the impulse of creativity itself. When the masculine and feminine energies are balanced and intimately joined, they express the ability to act, create, manifest, build and bring order. When we learn how to balance them, we become more creative and effective, individually and collectively. We are better at meeting challenges and responding to opportunities.

How does chauvinism block creativity? Chauvinism, an elevation of masculine over feminine energy, would separate us from our feelings. It does violence to femininity and castrates legitimate masculinity. The mildest trace of such subordination diminishes and reduces primal creative energies to second place, so that nothing new can arrive. Civilization suffers from this systemic disorder to the degree that we believe our needs won’t be met unless we are controlling or relying disproportionately on action principles. A culture that elevates doing over being is ignorant of how to pop the clutch and shift into neutral, and so keeps driving down the same road without hope of changing direction. When spirituality was more alive inside religious traditions, we honored the sanctity of the Sabbath and the importance of putting aside doing in order to be intimate with the mystery of life. It’s what breathes new life into our thoughts and feelings, arousing body, mind and spirit to new heights. Every creator understands that all creativity is a gift of the feminine energy and a gift of the gods. Integrative masculine energies are always constellated around such a gift. Allowing ourselves to become intimate with a greater state of being rather than doing, we open ourselves to receiving a new relationship with life. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

inspiration

EARTH GUARDIANS Kids Say No to Global Warming by April Thompson

t age 6, climate change activist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez gave his first speech to a packed crowd in his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. Raised in the Aztec tradition, he was taught that as indigenous people, they are descendants of the land and inherit a duty to protect it. “I felt such sadness that my generation inherited this crisis to clean up. That night, I saw that those emotions could be channeled into action and my voice could make a difference,” says Martinez, founder and youth director of the nonprofit Earth Guardians. Ten years later, his impassioned message has sparked a global movement. More than 2,000 “youth crews” from Bhutan to Brazil are fighting climate change and improving their communities in other ways. These activists aren’t yet old enough to vote, but are still making their voices heard by global policymakers. On their behalf, Martinez delivered a plea to representatives from 192 countries at the United Nations General Assembly meeting on climate change last year, asking for stronger measures to protect both the planet and its people. He particularly pointed to the ever-increasing “climate refugees” that have lost their homes to rising oceans and other havoc caused by Earth’s warming trend. Although Martinez serves on President Obama’s youth council, he

and 20 other young plaintiffs filed a landmark lawsuit earlier this year against the federal government for failing to protect its citizens from climate change. The plaintiffs are seeking a court order requiring America’s president to establish a national plan to decrease atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide to “safe” levels by 2100. At home, Martinez is working with Boulder County community and environmental organizations to locally eliminate pesticides from parks, charge for plastic bags at retail, regulate coal ash emissions and ban fracking. EarthGuardians.org offers many ways anyone can plug into the movement, whether taking individual actions to lighten our carbon footprint, creating school gardens or signing its Silence into Action pledge, inspired by Martinez’s younger brother Itzcuauhtli’s 45-day silence strike for climate action. “The most important thing you can do is educate yourself. Whatever makes you come alive, use that passion to make a difference,” says Martinez, whose performances as a pianist and hip-hop artist inform and enliven music festivals worldwide. “Together, we can create a legacy we can be proud to pass on to the next generation.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

natural awakenings

August 2016

calendarofevents Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by August 10 for the September issue. $15/Event Calendar or $10/Ongoing Calendar listing. $25/ PlanAhead Events, $99/MarkYourCalendar. Qualified, free, community-wide events are listed for free as space is available. Submit entries to Publisher@NALAmag.com. Call 504-975-0344 for more information.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 Young Yogis Mini-Camp – Aug 1-4. 9am-noon. Yoga, crafts, pranayama, games, songs, meditation, stories, snacks and lots of fun. $99. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648. TransformNOLA.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2 Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program – 5:30pm. Dr Debbi Hannan presents: The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program at Chiropractic Health Center. Free. 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline Dr, New Orleans. 504-454-2000.

munity Church Unitarian Universalists every 1st Thur. 6690 Fleur de Lis Dr, New Orleans. celsjr.org.

How Meditation Changes Your Brain Frequency – 7pm. With Brenda Aranda and Paul Martinez. Learning to train the brain and focus attention is essential to thriving and creating a peak performance in any endeavor. This class will consist of frequency changing brain wave exercises and open discussion. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 504-885-7575.

Swedish Massage Clinic – 12:45pm & 2:15pm. Also Aug 19 & 26. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Swedish massage is good for overall relaxation and increased flexibility. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 Deep Tissue Massage Clinic – 12:45pm & 2:15pm. Also Aug 10, 12 & 17. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Deep tissue is a full body massage that really gets the kinks out. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 Neuromuscular Therapy Clinic – 6:15pm & 7:45pm. Also Aug 18. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. NMT is a partial body massage that focuses on a specific problem area. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972. Ethical Lecture Series – 7pm. Join the Center for Ethical Living and Social Justice Renewal at Com-

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 Saturday Morning Massage Clinic – 9:15am & 10:45am. Also Aug 13 & 27. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Aug 6: Deep Tissue; Aug 13: Deep Tissue or NMT; Aug 27: NMT. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7 Intro to Qigong Workshop – 1-4pm. Participants will learn a series of simple and replicable movements that will introduce the potential and power of qi cultivation and mastery as well as applications in daily life. $35. Wild Lotus Yoga Uptown, 4842 Perrier St, New Orleans. 504-8990047. WildLotusYoga.com. Beneath the Weight, End Stress Eating – 1:304pm. SelfCare Health Initiatives, a non-profit organization, and Jefferson Parish Library present

a series of three weekly people-helping-people workshops for individuals to overcome weight challenges related to overeating when stressed. Free and open to the public. Jefferson Parish East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W Napoleon Ave, Metairie. Info/preregister: 504-220-2576 or Manager@BeneathTheWeight. BeneathTheWeight.org.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9 Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program – 12:30pm. Dr Debbi Hannan presents: The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program at Chiropractic Health Center. Free. 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline Dr, New Orleans. 504-454-2000. Swedish Massage Clinic – 6:15pm & 7:45pm. Also Aug 23 & 30. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Swedish massage is good for overall relaxation and increased flexibility. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504293-0972. Solar Plexus Chakra Class – 7pm. With Brenda Aranda and Paul Martinez. Examine, reflect on and work with the solar plexus chakra, at the navel area. Personal strength, learning, comprehension, self esteem, willpower and the ability to change your life are all affected by this energy center. Class includes instruction, discussion and meditation. Wear yellow, this chakra’s color. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10 Four-Week Women’s Health Course – 6-7:30pm. Starts Aug 10th on Weds. Explore the importance of physical presence and energetic centering to promote equilibrium in the entire body. $80. Wild Lotus Yoga Uptown, 4842 Perrier St, New Orleans. 504-899-0047. WildLotusYoga.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 Restore to Radiance Workshop – 2:30-5:30pm. Nurture your mind, body and spirit in this special workshop filled with gentle movements, supported restorative postures, meditation and chanting. $50. Wild Lotus Yoga Uptown, 4842 Perrier St, New Orleans. 504-899-0047. WildLotusYoga.com. Shamanic Drumming –5-7pm. Join Barbie for an experiential drumming circle and delve into different healing techniques and practices of traditional cultures. $20. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-708-8353 or MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 15 Oneness Blessing and Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. Every 3rd Mon. The Oneness Blessing, a divine energy transfer that promotes experiences of inner peace, harmony, unconditional love, and oneness. By donation. 503 N Columbia St, Covington. 504723-5472.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16 Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program – 5:30pm. Dr Debbi Hannan presents: The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program at Chiropractic Health Center. Free. 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline Dr, New Orleans. 504-454-2000. Metaphysical Bible Study – 7pm. With Paul Martinez and Brenda Aranda. Many principles of Unity and the ‘New Thought’ movement (including Law of Attraction) are found in ancient scripture but are lost to us if we depend on literal interpretations, which have left many people ‘bible shy’. Take another look at the Bible through ‘new eyes’. We’ll reflect on John 14:27. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17 Student Mediumship Gallery – 7-9pm. Sid will guide his students to deliver messages from spirit. Be a part of these mediums development. Donation recommended. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-708-8353 or MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

Facing the Fears Within – 7pm. With Brenda Aranda and Paul Martinez. Fears stem from our inherent desire to feel safe and secure. Anything that threatens that sense of security creates a sense of insecurity and all fear is based on insecurity. In this class we will share our fears and discuss ways to deal with them and live more loving, peaceful and secure. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24 Neuromuscular Therapy Clinic – 12:45pm & 2:15pm. Also Aug 31. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. NMT is a partial body massage that focuses on a specific problem area. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 Reiki I & II – Aug 27-28. 11am-6pm. With Reiki Master Teacher, Sunny Robichaux. Learn a Japanese energy technique, use on yourself or others, for stress reduction and general well being. No experience necessary. CEUs for LMTs. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, Metairie. Call for info including early bird discount: 504-293-0972. Psychic Saturday – Noon-6pm. Featured psychic readings are $30/30 min & $50/60 min, plus 50 percent off sale on selected merchandise. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-708-8353 or MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28

Heavenly Connections Mediumship Events Crossing Over Spirit Gallery – 7-9pm. Receive messages from loved ones in heaven. By donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Richland 504-352-9698.

Soul School 2016 Info Meeting – 2-3:30pm. Meet with Sean Johnson and Mitchel Bleier to learn more about Soul School, our 200-hour interdisciplinary teacher training program. Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown, 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans. 504-8990047. WildLotusYoga.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

TUESDAY, AUGUST 30

Spiritual Cinema: City of Angels – 7pm. An inspiring, heart-filled film of love, immortality and the consequence of choice. An angel, Seth, wanders LA invisible to humans, acting as a guide to assist those transitioning to the other side. Upon meeting Maggie, a distraught heart surgeon, he’s faced with a decision that will alter both of their existences forever. Rated PG-13. $5 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program. 5:30pm. Dr Debbi Hannan presents: The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program at Chiropractic Health Center. Free. 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline Dr, New Orleans. 504-454-2000.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31 Intuitive Tarot – 6-9pm. Learn the intuitive connection with Tarot. Rider Waite deck recommended.

$30/advance, $40/at door. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-7088353 or MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com.

plan ahead FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Restorative Yoga Teacher Training – Sept 9-11 & Sept 16-18. In this training, we will learn the theory and application behind this practice to guide yourself and others into the deepest layers of restoration. $695. Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown, 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-0047. WildLotusYoga.com.

markyourcalendar Blue Cliff College Massage Dept. Continuing Education CEUs for LMTs August 27 & 28 Reiki I & II

Sunny Robichaux, MBA

September 10 & 11 Hot Stone Massage Derrie Bergeron

October 21-23

Basics of Craniosacral Peggy Scott

December 2-4

DayBreak Geriatric Massage Dr. Sharon Puszko

BCC Clearview Mall, Metairie

504-293-0972

PeggyS@BlueCliffCollege.com

Psychic Fair – Noon-6pm. Our only Fair in Aug. Featuring mediums, psychics, healers, astrologer, aura photos, crystals, essential oils, jewelry and more. Free admission. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-708-8353 or MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com. Levels I, II & III Chi Kung Courses – Begins Sat, Aug 20. 12-week course each Sat to learn energy mastery, self-healing and for healing others. $400/Level I; $500/Level II and $600/Level III.2901 General de Gaulle Dr. New Orleans. More info: 504-457-1717.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23 Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program – 12:30pm. Dr Debbi Hannan presents: The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program at Chiropractic Health Center. Free. 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline Dr, New Orleans. 504-454-2000.

natural awakenings

August 2016

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ongoingevents

fense system based on classical Tai chi. All levels. $120/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859.

Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by August 10 for the September issue. $15/Event Calendar or $10/Ongoing Calendar listing. $25/ PlanAhead Events, $99/MarkYourCalendar. Qualified, free, community-wide events are listed for free as space is available. Submit entries to Publisher@NALAmag.com. Call 504-975-0344 for more information.

Aerial Fitness – 6-7pm. Stephen Kernion will use the Omni Aerial swings for stretching and strength training. Newcomers welcome. $20. Bliss Body NOLA, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-262-8660. BlissBodyNOLA.com.

sunday Sunday Morning Meditation – 9am. Join Mike Wittenbrink as he leads a group meditation designed to bring you silence and stillness as you embrace the new week. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. A Course in Miracles – 10am. A discussion of an in-depth study of the principle ideas of the text by the same name. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. Science of Being – 10am. Text by Baron Eugene Fersen. As humans enlightened their bodies, minds, and spirits in the physical world with the pure knowledge of the flame of inspiration and love, more would be revealed to mankind through the “all” knowing that resides with their absolute soul. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. Sunday Celebration Service – 11am. With Jack Fowler, Spiritual Director. Contemporary service with music and heartfelt talks to celebrate the divine presence in all of life. Love offering. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie. 504-885-7575. UnityOfMetairie.com. Unity of New Orleans Sunday Service – 11am. A loving family of spiritual seekers who honor all paths to God. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. A Course in Miracles – 1pm. Healing Center, 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans. Malcolm Fugler: 504-220-3223. Weekend Recovery – 2pm. Vinyasa flow class with breathing emphasis releases toxins and balances your senses. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648.

monday Yoga – 1:30-2:30pm. With Gwendel Booth, Hatha Ashtanga Yoga Instructor. Asansas to connect body and mind; breathing techniques to connect conscious and unconscious; chakra meditation to connect the individual to the vibrational energy of the cosmos. $15/class. Pay as able. Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation, 71667 Leveson St, Abita Springs. 985-892-8111. WomensCenterForHealing.org. MELTing Into Yoga – 4-5pm. With Sadani. Combination of MELT Method techniques and yoga postures to hydrate the body’s connective tissue (fascia) and increase strength, flexibility and stability. $40/month or $12/drop-in. Pay as able. Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation,

71667 Leveson St, Abita Springs. 985-892-8111. WomensCenterForHealing.org. Beginner Children’s Karate Class – 5-5:45pm. Build self-confidence, self discipline. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241. Beginner Adult Karate Class – 6-6:50pm. Learn personal safety, self-confidence, keep physically fit. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241. Basic/Beginners Aikido Class – 6:15-7:15pm. Benefits include self-defense, flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, concentration, community and fun. First class free. NOLA Aikido, 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103 in Mid-City, New Orleans. 504-208-4861. Info@NOLAAikido.com. Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism – 7-8:15pm. Learn how to activate your greatest potential, increase compassion and achieve absolute happiness. Free. SGI-USA Buddhist Center, 1331 Prytania St, New Orleans. 504-310-2011.

tuesday Classical Tai Chi Yang Style – 8:30-9:30am. With Sifu Tommy. Long form and rolling techniques based on classical Tai chi yang style. All levels. $120/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859. Yoga in the Park – 8:30-9:30am. Yoga is for Everyone led by Jaiweh Yoga instructor Christina Andrini. An all levels flow that challenges, strengthens and inspires a meditative connection to your practice. Beginners welcome. Free. Audubon Park (corner side on Walnut & St Charles), 7004 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 954-696-5014. ChristinaAndrini@jaiwehyoga.com. Crescent City Farmers’ Market/Uptown – 9am1pm. Open-air market with fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, seafood, baked breads and pies, bedding plants, dairy products and freshly cut flowers. 200 Broadway St, parking lot of Uptown Square, New Orleans. 504-861-4488. CrescentCityFarmersMarket.org. Qigong/Dao-In – Noon. Also Thurs. Class designed to de-stress and focus on self-care, join Debra Howard for an hour or so practicing gentle movements with intention. Bring a mat. $5/class. New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St Claude Ave, 4th Flr. 985467-0900 or dc@AffordableHealingArts.com. Yoga for Veterans – Noon-1pm. Connected Warriors Yoga for service members, veterans and their families. Jaiweh Yoga instructor Christina Andrini leads a spirited and motivated sequence for our military community. Beginners welcome. Free. Higher Power Nola, 514 City Park Ave, New Orleans. 954696-5014. ChristinaAndrini@yahoo.com. Yee Chuen Do – 5-7pm. With Sifu Tommy. Self-de-

Okinawan Karate Weapons Class – 6-7 pm. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241. Energy Psychology – 7-8pm. Last Tue. With Dr Gail Gillespie. Attend this open community group and learn an all-natural, efficient and effective way to reduce or eliminate physical pain through gentle self-administered acupressure stimulation. By donation. Affordable Healing Arts, 2372 St Claude Ave, Ste 220, New Orleans. 504-442-8762. Meditation Class – 7-8pm. Sitting in stillness. Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in, $30/30-day. Tibetan House: 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans. TibetanHouse.com. Strong and Flexy Yoga – 7:30pm. An energizing flow that strengthens, lengthens and relaxes. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St. 985-640-2648.

wednesday Meditation Class – 9-10am. Sitting in stillness. Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in, $30/ 30-days. Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans. TibetanHouse.com. Qigong Class – 9:30am. $90/6-week seminar. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Register: 504-886-2241. Prayer and Healing – 11am. Facilitated by Harriet Stafford. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. Crescent City Farmers’ Market/French Quarter – 2-6pm. Fresh produce, pastured meats, seafood, dairy, breads and baked goods. Live music. 1235 N Peters St, New Orleans. 504-861-4488. CrescentCityFarmersMarket.org. German Coast Farmers’ Market/West Bank – 2:30-6pm. Open-air market offering fresh produce, rotisserie and fresh meats, fresh pastries/ breads, sausage, kettle corn, cracklings, prepared foods, soy candles, goat milk soap and lotions. Arts and crafts fourth Wed. St Charles Plaza Shopping Center, 12715 Highway 90, Luling. GermanCoastFarmersMarket.org. Aerial Yoga – 4:30pm. Expect to work on strength and flexibility, form and flow and hang upside down. Suitable for all fitness and yoga levels. Class size is limited. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648. Beginner Children’s Karate Class – 5-5:45pm. Build self confidence, self discipline. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241. Hypno-Puncture – 5:30-7:30pm. A unique stress management technique. A 45-minute fusion of acupuncture and hypnosis. $45. Theratique, 4440 Canal St, New Orleans. Hope: 504-270-9618. Embrace the Emptiness-Community Meditation – 6pm. With Jack Fowler, Spiritual Director. Ride the wavelengths of music, beautiful images and affirmative prayer into the sacred inner self for healing and transfor-

natural awakenings

August 2016

mation. Love offering. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Blvd, Metairie. 504-885-7575. UnityOfMetairie.com.

& Wellness Center, 3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5199.

Basic/Beginners Aikido Class – 6:15-7:15pm. Benefits include self-defense, flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, concentration, community and fun. First class free. NOLA Aikido, 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103, in Mid-City, New Orleans. 504-208-4861. Info@NOLAAikido.com.

A Course in Miracles – 7pm. St Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S Tyler St, Covington. Malcolm Fugler: 504-220-3223.

A Course In Miracles: Disappearance of the Universe – 7pm. Join Jack Fowler, Spiritual Director at Unity of Metairie, on a journey into these mind blowing yet liberating spiritual concepts, which guide us to see the world through the eyes of love instead of fear. Love offering. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Blvd, Metairie (behind Parran's PoBoys). 504-885-7575. Discovering Tibetan Buddhism Class – 7-8pm. $10/drop-in or $30/30-day. Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans. TibetanHouse.com.

thursday Classical Tai Chi Yang Style – 8:30-9:30am. With Sifu Tommy. Long form and rolling techniques based on classical Tai chi yang style. All levels. $120/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859. Qigong/Dao-In – Noon. Also Tue. Class designed to de-stress and focus on self-care, join Debra Howard for an hour or so practicing gentle movements with intention. Bring a mat. $5/class. New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St Claude Ave, 4th Flr. 985467-0900 or DC@AffordableHealingArts.com. Crescent City Farmers’ Market/Mid-City – 3-7pm. Rain or shine. Farmers’ Market, American Can Co Bldg, 3700 Orleans Ave, New Orleans. Yee Chuen Do – 5-7pm. With Sifu Tommy. Self-defense system based on classical Tai chi. All levels. $120/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859. Oneness Blessing and Meditation – 6-7pm. Calming energy and inner peace. Free Broadmoor Arts & Wellness Center, 3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5199. Bellicon Bounce Class – 5:45-6:30pm. The "Blissco-theque" is the place to be. Come bounce on 54 inch mini trampolines with bars for balance. $20. Bliss Body NOLA, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-262-8660. BlissBodyNola.com. Oneness Blessing and Meditation – 6-7pm. Calming energy and inner peace. Free. Broadmoor Arts

Handstand and Flexibility Training – 7:15pm. Gives everyone the support, time and repetition to build confidence upside down. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648.

friday Meditation Class – 10-11am. Sitting in stillness. Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in, $30/ 30-day. Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans. TibetanHouse.com. Yoga – 1:30-2:30pm. With Gwendel Booth, hatha ashtanga yoga instructor. Befriend your breath, focus your energy and take charge of your emotions. Love the life you’ve got. Learn to assist your body in maintaining a healthy immune system. $15/ class, Pay as able. Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation, Abita Springs. 985-892-8111. WomensCenterForHealing.org. Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. With Rachel Piercey. $15. Bliss Body NOLA, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-2628660. BlissBodyNola.com.Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. With Master Instructor Laura Ates. $17. 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-262-8860. BlissBodyNOLA.com. Yee Chuen Do – 5-7pm. With Sifu Tommy. Self-defense system based on classical Tai Chi. All levels. $120/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859. Meditation and Restorative Yoga – 6:15pm. Sitting meditation, then restorative yoga practice to release tension. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648. Ecstatic Dance – 6:30-8pm. A free-form conscious dance space. Connect with your spirit through movement. $14/drop-in. NOLA Yoga Loft, 2042 Magazine St, New Orleans. 504-345-3444.

saturday Vietnamese Farmers’ Market – 6-9am. More than 20 vendors set up shop on blankets spread with produce; beyond the courtyards are shops selling Vietnamese baked goods and imported groceries. 14401 Alcee Fortier Blvd, New Orleans East. GoGreenNola.org/farmersmarkets.

Camellia City Farmers’ Market – 8am-noon. Featuring baked goods, herbs, vegetables, honey, jams, poultry, crafts, flowers, eggs, plants, soap and trees. 333 Erlanger, Griffith Park, Slidell. 985-640-7112. CamelliaCityMarket.org. Covington Farmers’ Market – 8am-noon. Offering fresh produce, fresh baked breads, prepared foods and plants. Covington City Hall, 609 N Columbia St, Covington. 985-966-1786. CovingtonFarmersMarket.org. Crescent City Farmers’ Market/Downtown – 8am-noon. Open-air market offering fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, seafood, baked breads and freshly made pies, bedding plants, dairy products and fresh flowers. Cooking demos by local chefs. 700 Magazine, corner of Girod, New Orleans. 504-8614488. CrescentCityFarmersMarket.org. German Coast Farmers’ Market/East Bank – 8amnoon. Open-air market offering fresh produce, rotisserie meats, fresh meats, fresh pastries/breads, sausages, kettle corn, cracklins, prepared foods, soy candles, goat milk soap and lotions. Arts and crafts second Sat. Ormond Plantation, 13786 River Rd, Destrehan. 985-359-0190. GermanCoastFarmersMarket.org. Gretna Farmers’ Market – 8:30am-12:30pm. Featuring fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, baked goods, dairy, native fruit wines and garden plants. Located in the old train depot, 300 Huey P Long Ave, between 3rd St & 4th St, Gretna. 504-362-8661. GretnaFarmersMarket.com. Westwego Farmers’ and Fisheries Market – 8:30am-12:30pm. Open year round, rain or shine. Featuring fresh produce, seafood, bakery items, dairy, plants, prepared foods and handcrafted items. Plus live music and kids activities. Free parking. 484 Sala Ave, corner of 4th St, Westwego. 504-341-3424 Ext 209. Mandeville Trailhead Community Market – 9am1pm. Fifty-plus vendors weekly: gourmet foods, art, produce and plants. Tai chi at 9:30am. Parking lot of the Mandeville Trailhead on the St Tammany Trace, off LA59, Mandeville. 985-845-4515. Kids Yoga Class – 10-11am. $80/6 weeks. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Register: 504-886-2241. Sitting Meditation Group – 10-11am. Practice zazen (sitting meditation) as well as walking meditation. Instruction and discussion also available. 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103, in Mid-City, New Orleans. Brian: xernaut2@gmail.com. 504-644-7351. Yoga and Guided Meditation –10-11:30am. Yoga nidra with Katrina Zech. Experience pure rejuvenation and deep relaxation through movement, breath and mindfulness practice. $15 donation. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. UnityTempleNewOrleans.com. Yoga – 11am-noon. Gentle yoga for all ages. Free. Broadmoor Arts & Wellness Center 3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5199. Yoga Class – 11am-noon. With Barbara. By donation. Broadmoor Arts and Wellness Center, 3900 General Taylor St, NOLA. Yee Chuen Do – 12:30-2pm. With Sifu Tommy. Self-defense system based on classical Tai chi. All levels. $100/month; unlimited classes. 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans. 985-630-2859. Qigong – 2-3pm. Gentle healing movement class for all levels and ages. Free. Broadmoor Arts & Wellness Center, 3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5199.

New Orleans

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YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS

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@NALAmag.com to request our media kit. Call 504-975-0344 for more information.

ACUPUNCTURE

NOLAApproach FAMILY ACUPUNCTURE A Holistic To Dentistry

MIKE ROBICHAUX, DDS

Erin Kenning, MSAOM, Dipl OM, LAc

9531 Jefferson are a person who… Hwy, River Ridge 504-715-2317

We help people move

1101 Robert Blvd, Ste A, Slidell 985-641-8058 • MikeRobichauxDDS.com

1101 Robert Blvd., Ste A Slidell, La 70458

es a high value on your oral health, NOLAFamilyAcupuncture.com toward wellness. ves that the health of the mouth is intimately related to We are aggressively health of the whole body, Experience a pain-free body conservative and and practice oking for a dental practice that listens to you without minimally-invasive dentistry. peaceful mind using the ancient ment and will help you get what is important to you, erstands that excellence is a choice that is made each day, healing power of Chinese medicine. We

Offering a holistic and patient-centered approach to dentistry, because we believe the health of the mouth and overall health cannot be separated. We help those we serve make decisions that are in their best interests, based on their values and goals, by providing state-of-the-art information Mike Robichaux, DDS within a trusting relationship. See ad, page 11.

holistic therapies including maybe we are a fitoffer for you! acupuncture, Chinese herbs, functional w.mikerobichauxdds.com medicine labs and985-641-8058 food-based nutritional supplements.

EDUCATION

BLUE CLIFF COLLEGE

ANIMAL HOLISTIC MEDICINE JANICE E. POSEY, DVM

315 Lee Ln, Ste 104, Covington 985-898-3623 Offering a holistic, integrative approach to healing your beloved pet through acupuncture, herbal medicine/nutritional supplements, and food therapy. We treat the patient, not the symptoms. See ad, page 22.

CHIROPRACTIC CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTER & HOLISTIC WELLNESS SERVICES Dr. Debbi Hannan 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline, Metairie 504-454-2000 HannanWellness.com

Experience the difference! We offer total wellness care: Chiropractic, detoxification, nutrition, endermologie, DRX-9000 nonsurgical spinal decompression, cold laser, EB-Cellular Cleanser, Far Infra Red Sauna and the Ideal Protein Diet plan. See ad, page 10.

DENTIST CYPRESS DENTAL, INC. 3138 McIlhenny Dr. Baton Rouge 225-248-8400

Offering services including cosmetic dentistry, full-mouth rehabilitation, minimally invasive dentistry, mercury safe environment, non-titanium implants, laser dentistry and treatment for complex conditions; obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, head, neck and facial pain and TMJ dysfunction. See ad, page 2.

Clearview Mall • Metairie 504-293-0972

Train for an exciting, new career as a licensed massage therapist. Inquire about financial aid. See calendar for information about our $30 student massage clinic. Visit our retail shop for massage supplies: Biotone and Therapro cremes and oils, aromatherapy products, books and more. BCC graduates – ask about your retail discount. LMTs can earn CEU credits at our continuing education classes. See ad, pae 21.

ESSENTIAL OILS YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS

Coco Kunstman Independent Distributor Young Living #1491684 • 504-344-7320 Coco@YoungLavenderBuds.com YoungLavenderBuds.com

Denise Woltering-Vargas Independent Distributor Young Living # 3096166 • 504-376-9492 Denise.Woltering@gmail.com YoungLavenderBuds.com Learn the basics of essential oils and how to live a clean and natural life. Take your first step towards a chemical-free and healthy lifestyle. Learn the basics and set yourself on a path to healthy living. All classes are always free. See class schedule in the calendar section.

FITNESS BLISS BODY

5717 Crawford St, New Orleans 504-262-8860 • BlissBodyNola.com Pilates, reformer and chair Pilates, Barre with experts Mary Mang and Lorraine deRouen, yoga with Rachel Piercey, bellicon bounce (mini trampolines), aerial fitness with Stephen Kernion, facials and massages. Get blissed.

DR. IINA ESTER

Health and Fitness Coach 504-758-9192 LiveFreeLaughHardFitness.com Exercise scientist specializing in fitness and nutrition interventions. I specialize in private outdoor and in-home training, designing a program based on your interests, goals, and barriers to being active. For group programs, see calendar section. See ad, page 7.

KARATE/TAI CHI/QI GONG

Learn the basics of essential oils and how to live a clean and natural life. This is your first step towards a chemical-free and healthy lifestyle. Learn the basics and set yourself on a path to healthy living. All classes are always free. See class schedule in the calendar section.

Grandmaster King Lam 8132 Willow St, Uptown New Orleans 504-866-2241 • KingLam1199@gmail.com KingLamTaiChi-Karate.com Asian Arts to improve health, fitness, personal safety and rejuvenate energy. Achieve a better mind, body and spirit. Serving the New Orleans community for 46 years. See ad, page 18 and calendar for classes.

TAI CHI-GRAND MASTER

YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS

Sifu Tommy 2901 General De Gaulle Dr, New Orleans 985-630-2859

Melissa Burbank Independent Distributor Young Living #2946391 • 504-975-0344 Melissa@YoungLavenderBuds.com YoungLavenderBuds.com Learn the basics of essential oils and how to live a clean and natural life. This is your first step towards a chemical-free and healthy lifestyle. Learn the basics and set yourself on a path to healthy living. All classes are always free. See class schedule in the calendar section.

All levels welcome. $120/month – unlimited classes (24 classes per month). See calendar for classes.

natural awakenings

August 2016

HOLISTIC HEALING CENTERS AFFORDABLE HEALING ARTS 2372 St. Claude Ave 2nd Floor Upper, Ste 220 985-467-0900 AffordableHealingArts.com

AHA! is a Community of Healing Arts Practitioners in a Healing Arts Center for the Professional Practice of Alternative, Complementary, Integrative, and Indigenous healing arts by independent practitioners in a shared space environment. See our website, contact a practitioner, make your appointment today. See ad, page 14.

NOLA FLOAT TANKS Flotation Therapy 504-352-6418 NOLAFloatTanks.com

Flotation therapy is a breakthrough treatment involving 800 lbs of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) poured into 200 gallons of water in a small shallow pool. The benefits of just a one-hour session are significant as they relieve stress, reduce blood pressure, ease joint and muscle pain and enhance one’s mood. See ad, page 7.

THE WELLNESS CENTRE OF BATON ROUGE

Dr. Karin Nielsen, ND, CCT 1528 Delplaza Dr, Ste B, Baton Rouge 225-229-6107 • WellnessCentreBR.com Offering full body thermography; detects abnormalities in the earliest stages, to find underlying causes of disease as it looks at the entire body’s behavior after being stressed. Consultations/follow-up care is offered as well. See ad, page 2.

WOMEN’S CENTER FOR HEALING & TRANSFORMATION 71667 Leveson St., Abita Springs 985-892-8111 WomensCenterForHealing.org

Beautiful nonprofit center for w o m e n ’s s p i r i t u a l i t y, e c o psychology and community building. Workshops, speakers, events, healing circles, support groups, and on-site professional mind/body/spirit services, for women, by women. Rent space for your workshop or office. See ad, page 5.

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HOLISTIC PRACTICES NEW ORLEANS COUNSELING AND HYPNOSIS CENTER, LLC

Cynthia Cuttino Edwards, PhD, DCH, LCSW Clinical Hypnotherapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker 4038 Canal St, New Orleans 504-669-1980 • CounselingNOLA.com Helping professionals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, Dr. Edwards provides services spanning grief counseling, depression, anxiety, smoking cessation, pain and weight management, fibromyalgia and more. Call today.

FRANK A. TRUPIANO, LCSW

Center for Akashic Studies and Holistic Counseling 1581 Carol Sue Ave, Grenta 504-392-3498 • AkashicLight.org Yo u r l i f e i s w a i t i n g t o b e transformed! Experience the power of holistic healing for mind, body and spirit. Reiki, EFT, The Sedona Method, Psych-K, hypnotherapy, meditation, Akashic Record readings and classes. Relationship and individual life coaching also available.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE INFINITE HEALTH INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CENTER Trip Goolsby, MD 2222 Magazine St, New Orleans 337-312-8234 • 855-700-4066 LeNae.Goolsby@gmail.com YourInfiniteHealth.com

Infinite Health’s comprehensive treatment strategy takes an individualized integrative approach by combining western medicine with p e e r- r e v i e w e d a n d c l i n i c a l l y supported complimentary therapies. Our 4Pillars Approach™ encompasses nutrition, fitness, hormonal and metabolic optimization, combined with various mindbody modalities. We are empowered medicine for the body, mind and soul.

IRENE SEBASTIAN, M.D., Ph.D.

401 Veterans Blvd, Ste 203, Metairie 504-838-9804 IreneSebastianMD.com Experience the difference that Homeopathic Medicine and Functional Medicine can bring to your health. Most conditions can be treated using these safe, natural approaches. Safe, less drugs, stimulates innate healing. See ad, page 21.

MASSAGE COMPASSIONATE CONNECTIONS MASSAGE THERAPY

Sarah Jo Fridley, BS, COTA, LMT LA#5725 3900 General Taylor St, 2nd flr, New Orleans 504-206-8827 Compassionate-Connections.com Specializing in massage therapy for older adults and individuals with chronic illness, including those receiving hospice and palliative care. All services are available on a sliding scale. LGBTQIA+ safe.

VITALITY HOLISTICS Taylor Tidwell 504-390-6257 VitalityHolistics.net

Renew your vitality with Thai Yoga Massage and Integrative Table Massage. Harmonize and bring healing to all systems of the body with these ancient practices. See ad, page 19.

NATURAL FOODS & SUPPLEMENTS NUTRIVERUS POWDER Jeanie Leclere 504-888-4464

Boost your immune system and increase energy levels with a whole-food supplement that combines a matrix of glyconutrients with organic plant- and foodsourced vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. An amazing product. Call for free sample.

NATURAL MEDICINE KARIN NIELSEN, ND, CCT

225-229-6107 1528 Delplaza Dr, Ste B, Baton Rouge WellnessCentreBR.com Offering non-invasive health assessments, total thermography, lymphatic therapy and many detox therapies. Specializing in chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and Lyme disease for men, women and children. See ad, page 2.

REFLEXOLOGY REALISTIC HOLISTIC

Sandra Sigur, Reflexologist At Theratique in Mid-City 407-924-1401 • HealingGroovy@gmail.com Get to the source of your health concerns with reflexology of the feet, hands, ears and/or face. Other modalities include lymphatic massage, reiki, supplement energy testing, skin care and aromatherapy.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS UNITY OF METAIRIE

Jack Fowler, Spiritual Director 3939 Veterans Blvd, Metairie 504-885-7575 (behind Parran’s) UnityOfMetairie.com Loving, energetic spiritual family honoring all religions, paths and lifestyles! Do you like what Marianne Williamson, Eckhart Tolle and Wayne Dyer have to say? You’ll love Unity of Metairie. Relevant spirituality for everyday life. Join us Sundays 11am. See ad, page 8.

UNITY TEMPLE OF NEW ORLEANS 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans UnityOfNewOrleans.com

The New Orleans home of practical Christianity. We honor all paths to God and welcome all who seek love, peace, and wisdom. Services on Sun & Wed 11 am; A Course in Miracles class Wed 6:30pm. See ad, page 14.

YOGA WILD LOTUS YOGA

4842 Perrier St, Uptown 2372 St Claude Ave, Downtown 504-899-0047 • WildLotusYoga.com Voted Best Yoga Studio 11 years. Intro offer: 30 days of yoga for $33 (firsttime local residents). Intro to yoga courses and over 60 classes a week, including prenatal, kids, tweens and teen classes. See ad, page 13.

classifieds To place a classified listing, email publisher@NALAmag.com. Must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. $1 per word. $20 minimum. Must be prepaid. OPPORTUNITIES AFLAC – The largest provider of supplemental insurance in the world is now hiring Benefits Consultants. Interested candidates, send your resume to Melissa_Burbank@us.aflac.com. YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS – A company dedicated to teaching the public about the power of essential oils and how to incorporate them into daily life. To become a distributor and educator, contact Coco Kunstman: 504-344-7320 or Coco@YoungLavenderBuds.com. Visit: YoungLavenderBuds.com.

SERVICES REMODELING/ROOFING/SIDING – 504 Contractor offering free estimates. Ask for free iPad with new roof. 504-373-1779. 504Contractors@gmail. com. 504Contactors.com. SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS – If you are interested in finding out more about providing supplemental benefits such as accident, disability, dental, vision, cancer, heart, or life policies for yourself and your family, as well as providing benefits to your employees at absolutely no additional cost to you as a business owner, contact Melissa Burbank at 504-975-0344 or Melissa_Burbank@us.aflac.com.

SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES VEGETARIAN MEETUP GROUP – Meets at least once a month for a veggie meal. See calen-

dar of events at Meetup.com/vegetarian-515/ members/7165804/. INCEST SURVIVOR GROUP – Meets once a month. For more information, email ang2park@yahoo.com.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES BENEATH THE WEIGHT – Helping weight-challenged individuals to end emotional eating. The program is free (sponsored by a non-profit) and open to the public. Volunteers assist participants in their journeys and help to get the word out to the public about the program. Contact Paul at 504-220-2576 or Manager@BeneathTheWeight.org, or visit BeneathTheWeight.org for information about the program. BOYS HOPE GIRLS HOPE – Providing children with arms-around care, safe homes and environments, a first-class education, opportunities to learn more about themselves and the world, and academic, financial and spiritual support through college, Boys Hope Girls Hope empowers children to realize the potential that is within them. Volunteer/donate: BoysHopeGirlsHope.org. GIRLS ON THE RUN – Inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. To become involved, visit gotrnola.org. YOUTH RUN NOLA – Creates and empowers a community of healthy young leaders through running. For more information about volunteering as a coach, running buddy or one of the many other opportunities, email Denali@YouthRunNOLA.org or visit YouthRunNOLA.org.

Creativity is

allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep. ~Scott Adams

natural awakenings

August 2016

New Orleans

NALAmag.com