NALAMAG JANUARY 2016

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

Functional Medicine for the 21st Century New Paradigm Gets to the Root Cause of Disease

Iina Antikainen

Putting the Personal Back in Training

NOLA Artist "Dapper" Bruce Lafitte

Climbs "Out of the Crab Barrel" and Into Our Hearts

Are You Ready For

Hemp?

The Power of Conscious Dance Creative Movement Connects Body, Mind and Spirit

January 2016 |

S.E. Louisiana Edition

natural awakenings

|

NALAmag.com January 2016

1

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contents 5

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5 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 10 globalbriefs 12 recipeforsuccess 12 actionalert 13 community

spotlight

14 coverstory 24 healingways 26 greenliving 28 fitbody 30 naturalpet 31 classifieds 33 calendarofevents 37 localdirectory

advertising & submissions 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.

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

13 NEW ORLEANS ARTIST

"Dapper" Bruce Lafitte

14 IINA ANTIKAINEN

Putting the Personal Back in Training

16 HEMP

Not Just for Hippies Anymore

14

20 THE RISE OF

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

New Paradigm Gets to the Root Cause of Disease

by Lisa Marshall

16 24 GOOD REASONS TO

TRY ACUPUNCTURE

Thousands of Studies

Show Healing Results

by Kathleen Barnes

26 IT’S EASY TO BE GREEN 20

At Home and On the Road

by Avery Mack

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Publisher@NALAmag.com Call 504-975-0344.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

28 THE POWER OF

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.

by Gail Condrick

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13

CONSCIOUS DANCE

Creative Movement Connects

Body, Mind and Spirit

30

30 THE RIGHT VET FOR YOUR PET

Animals Thrive with Gentle,

Safe and Natural Approaches

by Shawn Messonnier

natural awakenings

January 2016

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letterfromtheeditor

I

started my first ballet class shortly after I took my first steps. My older sister, Aubrey, was 5 and my idol. If she was going to dance, I was going to dance.

Little did I know it was the start of a life long love affair with the art form. Since that fateful day many moons ago there has not been a period in my life when dancing was not a part of my life. Ballet, Jazz, tap, salsa, I have done it all. When I saw that this month’s theme was dancing I wanted to jeté for joy. While it has many forms, dancing, to me, is as innate as breathing. It is almost involuntary–an ancient stirring that music awakens.

I spent most of my adult life in school, the last 3 years getting a MBA. Needless to say, it has been a long time since I did much reading for pleasure.

With Graduate school behind me I wanted to get back to the enthralling places that the written word has to offer. I asked every member of my family to tell me their favorite books. I wanted to read to the greats to spark that long lost love of reading. Although my mother’s favorite book is Beach Music (1995) by Pat Conroy, she swears by Jean M. Auel’s The Clan of the Cave Bear series (1980). I began to dive into a pre-historic world of Neanderthals and early humans. The vegetation and customs are fascinating to say the least but I was most astonished by the use of dancing. The Neanderthals used dancing as a form of celebration and story telling much in the same way we do today. They even had types of competition for telling the best story with their movements. Although I think these competitions are far off from the dance offs we have today, the idea is congruent. This custom of using the body as expression is so natural that it transcends culture and time. The movements and music may vary, but the action is universal.

As a Zumba instructor I see the positive impact that this bodily expression does for both the mind and body. People come into class with the weight of the day looming over them. After the first minute of dancing, smiles brighten across the room as we dance to the rhythm of day. As though becoming aware of their bodies through the music. It brings them joy. It is easy to get lost starring at a computer screen for hours on end. I start to sometimes feel as though I am becoming the chair where I sit. I forget that I have this fantastic, complicated, diverse body that can move and express more than just my fingers dancing across the keyboard.

Keeping this in mind, I have tried to institute dance break at my desk at least once an hour. I get up and rock some amazing (usually Latin or 80s) song while my puppy looks at me like I am crazy. I may indeed be. However, I can’t tell you how good it feels to do 3 minutes of totally crazy body movements while Madonna tells me to express myself. I highly recommend making this ritual part of your New Years Resolutions. Take 3 minutes every hour to dance in your office, at your cube, or in your home. I promise that it will make 2016 flow a little easier or at least be a lot more entertaining for your office.

Happy New Year,

Coco

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Publisher Melissa Burbank

Editor-in-Chief Coco Kunstman

Design & Production Paul Scott

Distribution Big Art's Distribution

Cover Artist Mike Buck Photography

Editors Lauren A. Pirosko Sara Peterson

Natural Awakenings S.E. Louisiana 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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newsbriefs Parkway Partners of NOLA Present Pruning with Purpose

P

arkway Partners of New Orleans is presenting a special seminar “Pruning with Purpose”. Participants will learn hands-on technique to pruning trees and shrubs with Lee Rouse, of LSU’s AgCenter. The session will include a month-by-month guide for pruning and maintenance and begins at 10 a.m. January 9. The gates open at 9 a.m. On sale at the Parkway Partners Greenhouse: citrus and fig trees, many various trees for landscaping; winter vegetable starts; colorful flowering bedding plants; longleaf pine straw.

Parkway Partners is a nonprofit organization that fosters a partnership between New Orleanians and their green spaces: neutral grounds, community gardens, parks, schoolyard gardens and the urban forest.

10am Parkway Partners Greenhouse, 1137 Baronne Street, NOLA 70113. Saturday, January 9, 2016, 9 a.m. to noon. www.parkwaypartnersnola.org. See ad on page 22.

New Okinawan Kobudo Martial Arts Class Starting January 12, 2016

O

kinawan kobudō refers to the weapon systems of Okinawan martial arts. These systems can have from one to as many as a dozen weapons in their curriculum, among the rokushakubo (six foot staff, known as the “bō ”), sai (dagger-shaped truncheon), tonfa (handled club).

The tonfa is traditionally made from red oak, and can be gripped by the short perpendicular handle or by the longer main shaft. As with all Okinawan weapons, many of the forms are reflective of “empty hand” techniques. The bō is a six-foot long staff, sometimes tapered at either end. The bō is the earliest of all Okinawan weapons (and effectively one of the earliest of all weapons in the form of a basic staff), and is traditionally made from red or white oak. The sai is a three-pronged truncheon sometimes mistakenly believed to be a variation on a tool used to create furrows in the ground.The weapon is metal and of the truncheon class with its length dependent upon the forearm of the user.

New Orleans pain specialists say electrodes can bring relief to migraine sufferers

D

octors at Integrated Pain and Neuroscience (IPN) have begun performing a groundbreaking procedure to alleviate chronic migraine pain. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is an effective procedure that stimulates the patient’s peripheral and occipital nerves with the use of a safe electrode device. The device is carefully implanted under the patient’s skin in order to manage pain and disability associated with a variety of severe neuropathic pain conditions. “The delivery of gentle electrical pulses to these specific nerve fibers can trick the brain into turning off painful signals,” says founder of IPN, Dr. Eric Royster. “It is a very safe technique and can even provide an alternative to long-term drug therapy for the relief of migraine pain.”

Physicians at IPN are available for scheduled interviews. For more information, contact Caroline McDougall at pr@ihealthmanagement.net. See ad on page 27.

Sensei King Lam and Sensei Richard Langenstein, 8th degree Black Belt Matsumura Seito Karate will conduct an Okinawan Karate Weapons Seminar on Tuesdays, January 12 – February 16 at 6pm-7 pm. The class will cover the Tonfa weapon which is similar to the PR-24 control baton used by police departments. This is a practical weapon for personal safety and self-defense. Class is for adults.

Future seminars will include Bo staff and Sai weapons training and applications.

Five class sessions will be held at King Lam’s Karate & Tai Chi Center 8132 Willow St. N.O.LA 70118. Tuition is $125.00. Call 504-866-2241 or email kinglam1199@ gmail.com to register. See ad on page 29. natural awakenings

January 2016

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Professional Qigong Training coming to New Orleans Convention Center February 19th-21st

Q

igong Breathing can help naturally resolve health issues. Transcending the physical and experiencing ourselves as pure energy is possible within a few minutes of the 9-Breath Method, a signature technique taught to over 50,000 people at Qi Revolution workshops around the country. Oxygen retention and pulsation of breath is the secret of the masters and few courses offer this level of comprehensive instruction. Food Healing Science is another big aspect of the seminar along with Strength Training, Hands on Healing, Reflexology, Tui Na Massage, and Five Elements etc. Advanced Registration Required.

For details call 800-298-8970 or visit www.QiRevolution.com. See ad on back cover.

Herbology

Not just a class a Hogwarts

E

ducation is the key is staying healthy or recovering health. Our nervous system affects every other body system in some way. Learning which herbs work best with each system leads to a vitality in the body, mind, and spirit. With this in mind Sharon Murphy, of Evergreen Herb Farm, is starting a 12-month course Science and Art of Herbal Medicine. In this course you learn by doing and quiet literally get your hands dirty. Each month will expand on how to grow, harvest and prepare herbs that nourish and support every cell in the body.

This is furthered by education on home formulas prepared during the class. Participants will receive their own medicinal herb plants to planet in a home garden.

Many people today want to be more involved in their health decisions. Herbs, unlike many drugs today, can be safely cultivated and consumed by the individual.

This course will enable participants to make their own herbal medicine. This rich experience will highlight the benefits and uses plant healers on and in the human body enabling one to take charge of health and wellness from natures own bounty.

This Science and Art of Herbal Medicine course starts in March 2016 and is held one Sunday afternoon a month for 12 months. Email for more information.

Sharon Murphy, Mandeville, LA. Evergreen Herb Farm. 504-579-1493. resourceforlife@bellsouth.net . www.resourceforlife.net See ad on page 17.

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Entering the Heart of Spiritual Practice with Francis Bennett

“T

he journey begins with a deep waking up from the idea and experience that we are limited to the human condition. The journey then comes full circle with a waking down into a deeply embodied life of working, loving and playing in the every day phenomenal world”- Francis Bennett.

Francis Bennett is a former Trappist Monk and hospice chaplain who has studied and taught in both Christian and Buddhist traditions. His non-dogmatic approach to direct experience with the Divine is celebrated by Christian Contemplative Prayer groups in the area as well as Zen and other Buddhist meditation practitioners. In addition, his bridge-building focus on grace and presence will appeal to those of any faith who are interested in experiencing the integration of spiritual insight and the everyday earthly walk.

In collaboration with The Red Shoes of Baton Rouge, North Shore Unitarian Universalist Society of Lacombe, and Christ Episcopal of Covington, the Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation and Clearwater Sanctuary Bennett will give five presentations in St Tammany Parish and three in Baton Rouge. Jan 15-17 on the Northshore.

Bennett will also be in Baton Rouge Jan 22-24 at The Red Shoes. For all details, visit http://findinggraceatthecenter.com

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healthbriefs

Feel Young, Live Long

R

esearch published in the Journal of the American Medical Association has found people that feel younger than their years have a lower incidence of earlier mortality. Conducted by scientists from the UK’s University College London, the research analyzed data from 6,489 people and measured their self-perceived age with the question, “How old do you feel you are?” Then, over more than eight years, the scientists tracked the number of deaths from all causes.

Almost 70 percent of those that averaged a little over 65 reported feeling at least three years younger than their chronological age. Only a quarter said they felt close to their age and about 5 percent said they felt more than a year older.

The research found that deaths among those that felt younger were 14 percent, while more than 18 percent of those who felt their own age and more than 24 percent of people that felt older died during the follow-up period. The research further found that individuals that felt at least three years younger were less likely to die later from heart disease or cancer. These relationships prevailed even when other health and lifestyle factors were eliminated.

Co-author Andrew Steptoe, Ph.D., says, “We expected to find an association between self-perceived age and mortality. We didn’t expect that the relationship would still be present even when wealth, other socio-demographic indicators, health, depression, mobility and other factors were taken into account.”

Playing Outside Before Lunch Spurs Kids to Eat Healthier

R

esearchers from Brigham Young University and Cornell University have determined that simply moving recess to precede lunch significantly increases students’ consumption of fruits and vegetables at lunch.

The researchers tested first- through sixth-graders from seven schools in Utah for 14 school days. In three schools, recess was switched from after to just before lunch. In the other four schools, recess still followed lunch.

Published in the journal Preventative Medicine, research found that when recess was just prior to lunch, students ate 54 percent more fruits and vegetables. Moving recess also resulted in 45 percent more kids eating at least one serving of fruits and vegetables during school-provided lunches.

The researchers concluded that results show the benefits of holding recess before lunch and suggest that if more schools did this, there would be significant increases in fruit and vegetable consumption, particularly among students that eat school lunch as part of the National School Lunch Program.

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Scientists Urge Ban on Non-Stick Pan Coatings

A

new paper published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal warns of the continued health risks of chemicals used for non-stick pan coatings and water repellents on clothing. The chemical is being found in some municipalities’ drinking water.

More than 200 scientists signed the statement, which presents the dangers of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are persistently used as pan coatings, despite more than a decade of research showing associations with liver toxicity, neurological disorders, cancers of different organs and types, and heart conditions.

The paper noted that many manufacturers have discontinued long-chain PFAS production and substituted shorter-chain PFAS. The scientists caution that these shorter-chain PFAS may not effectively reduce PFAS exposure because more has to be used to achieve the same effectiveness, maintaining PFAS in the environment with exposure levels relatively unchanged. It calls for scientists, governments, chemical manufacturers and consumer product manufacturers to participate in halting all PFAS production.

Vitality Holistics

Autism Spurs Creative Thinking

T

he UK’s University of East Anglia and the University of Stirling conducted a study of individuals with autistic traits among 312 people recruited through social media, including 75 diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder.

Each of the subjects completed a series of creativity tests in which they determined uses of mundane objects.

Published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, the study found that while the autistic people chose fewer uses for each object, their choices were significantly more original and creative. The subjects developed a greater range of “divergent thinking”.

Martin Doherty, Ph.D., co-author of the study, confirms, “People with high autistic traits can have less quantity, but greater quality of creative ideas. They are typically considered to be more rigid in their thinking, so the fact that the ideas they have are more unusual or rare is surprising. This difference may have positive implications for creative problem solving.”

The researchers found that while the average person will utilize simple mental strategies to produce more obvious answers first, autistic people tend to first utilize more demanding strategies during their processing, thus producing the more creative result.

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globalbriefs Puppy Cuddles

Students De-Stress by Petting Dogs At least three universities in England have offered puppy rooms to stressed students.

More than 600 students signed up last year in Bristol alone.

Gordon Trevett, from the University’s Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health, says, “Every year I see students fretting about their exams, and I thought this would be a great way to ease the stress and take their minds off it.

People with dogs have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without a dog, and we know that playing with a dog can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax.”

Jo Woods, from the Bristol Students Union, says, “It’s important to do fun and different things to de-stress during exams, and cuddling a puppy is a perfect way to release some endorphins.”

Source: BBC

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OM MBA

Eastern Practices Penetrate U.S. Corporate Culture Aetna CEO Mark Bertolini has introduced free yoga and meditation classes for employees of the health insurance giant, and more than 13,000 are participating. On average, they experienced a 28 percent reduction in their stress levels, 20 percent improvement in sleep quality, 19 percent reduction in pain and 62 minutes per week of extra productivity.

“We have this groundswell inside the company of people wanting to take the classes,” says Bertolini.

“It’s been pretty magical.” He sells the same classes to businesses that contract with Aetna.

Google now offers emotional intelligence courses for employees and General Mills has a meditation room in every building on its Minneapolis corporate campus. Even conservative Wall Street firms such as Goldman Sachs are teaching meditation on the job.

Some programs, from yoga sessions for factory workers to guided meditations for executives, are intended to improve overall well-being; others to increase focus and productivity. Most aim to make employees more present-minded, less prone to make rash decisions and generally nicer people to work with.

More than 21 million individuals now practice yoga nationwide, double the number from a decade ago, and nearly as many meditate, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Source: MindfulYogaHealth.com

Doctor’s Orders

GMO Labeling Endorsed

by Physicians Even as the federal government pursues H.R. 1599, aka the “Deny Americans the Right to Know” (DARK) act, mainstream medicine is urging the government to abandon its resistance to GMO (genetically modified organism) labeling. They are bolstered by a recent announcement by the World Health Organization that glyphosate (the active ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer) is probably carcinogenic in humans. The genetic engineering ends up making crops resistant to the herbicide so more must be applied.

According to contributing doctors from Harvard, Mt. Sinai Medical Center and the University of Wisconsin reporting in the New England Journal of Medicine, “GM crops are now the agricultural products most heavily treated with herbicides, and two of these herbicides may pose risks of cancer.”

A recent notice in the same journal, “GMOs, Herbicides and Public Health,” reports: “The application of biotechnology to agriculture has been rapid and aggressive. The vast majority of the soy and [feed] corn grown in the United States are now genetically engineered. Foods produced from GM crops have become ubiquitous.”

Sixty-four countries, including Russia and China, have already adopted transparency in labeling laws, but U.S. Big Food and Big Ag lobbyists have stonewalled efforts domestically.

For more information and petitions, visit OrganicConsumers.org.

natural awakenings

January 2016

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actionalert

recipeforsuccess

No-Choice Vaccines

California Mandates Shots for Childcare Workers

Strawberry Vinaigrette Heavy salad dressings are a sure way to turn a healthy meal into a calorie nightmare. The best way to avoid this (and customize it to your taste for the best overall salad) is to make your own. It keeps in the fridge and is a great way to utilize the best ingredients of the season!

Yields: 1 1/3 cups) 1/2 pound fresh strawberries 2 tablespoon honey (or more to taste if your berries are not very sweet) 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Adjust honey to taste.

After passing the state House and Senate, California Senate Bill 792 was approved by Governor Jerry Brown on October 11. The unprecedented law mandates vaccines for adult childcare workers and volunteers, including all individuals working in private and public school early childhood education programs, with no religious exemptions permitted.

SB 792 reads, “Commencing September 1, 2016, a person shall not be employed or volunteer at a day care center if he or she has not been immunized against influenza, pertussis [whooping cough] and measles. Each employee and volunteer shall receive an influenza vaccination between August 1 and December 1 of each year.�

The same regulations also apply to family home day care workers and volunteers. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in a loss of licensing for the facility/ center.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/californiasb792. Let California lawmakers hear what the people want via Legislature.ca.gov.

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communityspotlight New Orleans Artist

“Dapper” Bruce Lafitte

A

rtist “Dapper” Bruce Lafitte beautifully embodies the spirit of New Orleans. Born to a 12-yearold victim of rape, he thought his only way out of “falling into that crab barrel” of the New Orleans projects was playing football. It was the aftermath of another maelstrom, Hurricane Katrina, that final pushed him to seriously consider art as a career.

Lafitte’s artistic ability started early.

Lafitte attended Booker T. Washington High School where he began winning art contest at school. He recalls that he would bring his awarded artwork home and his Grandmother, Aretha Abrams, who would reward him and display his work for the entire household to see. “She was a very honest critic— still is to this day” recalls Lafitte. After working for years doing every type of job imaginable everything was halted when Hurricane Katrina hit. Evacuated to Minnesota in the aftermath Lafitte remembers a social worker said he should be an artist. After that conversation Lafitte went into his FEMA trailer in New Orleans and created over 1000 pieces.

A few years after that Lafitte had begun doing local art festivals. It was not long before he got his first art show. The turning point came with Dan Cameron, renowned America art curator, took an interests in Lafitte’s work that prompted Lafitte to transform from an art world outsider to a bonafide celebrity. Cameron presented

Lafitte with a check for $100,000 and one simple pronouncement: create a collection. This first series is still Lafitte’s favorite collection “without the first there wouldn’t be the 10th” Reminisces Lafitte.

Lafitte is now a regular artist at the Louis B. James gallery in New York.

One of his latest collections centers around a childhood hero: Mike Tyson.

Growing up in the projects Lafitte was no stranger to the violence within his community. “When I saw something I would draw it.” Recalls Lafitte. Tyson represented a sense of community and helped bring together his family and community. The neighborhood would become quiet. All of the anguish seemed to halt, as heads seem to bow in silent supplication towards the TV sets. Names like Joe Louis, Mohammed Ali, and Jack Johnson were spoken with adoration and reverence.

Lafitte saw Tyson as a representation of personal competition. “The artwork has to change. It has to keep getting better.” After breaking the barrier between his upbringing in the projects and the prestige of the professional art world, Lafitte is looking to tackle a new nemesis: himself. Lafitte recently changed his name from Bruce Davenport Jr. to Dapper Bruce Lafitte.

The surname Lafitte, a paternal surname, represents his acceptance and absolution of his personal history.

Lafitte has now shown in 14 countries and is displayed in universities in 39 states. Lafitte has also donated numerous pieces to schools in the New Orleans area that display it proudly. Lafitte is currently curating a show at the New Orleans public library on Napoleon.

Also on the horizon are shows in New York and Tokyo.

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January 2016

13

coverstory

Iina Antikainen Putting the Personal Back in Training

I

ina Antikainen is the epitome of cool.

Her long tightly woven dreadlocks give her an ageless bohemian quality that many women would kill for.

Her deep slightly accented voice has a velvety texture that makes you want to listen to whatever she has to say. And you should listen because this is no ordinary personal trainer. The first thing that sets Iina apart from your average trainer is three letters P.H.D. That’s right she is Dr. Iina Antikainen PhD.

Growing up in a small town in Finland Iina knew that she wasn’t going to stay in her small community of 300 people for long. Her interest in the human body started early. Always an active person, she wanted to understand what was going on in the human body on a cellular level. “I know I am from Finland, but I hate the cold.” After high school Iina headed to sunny Florida to complete her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida. After graduation Iina wanted to keep the warm sun on her skin so she moved to Los Angeles. It was working in Los Angeles as a personal trainer that Iina began to 14

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form the foundation that would be her life’s work.

“We know that training and being active can prevent disease. We know that our lifestyle is related to the illnesses we get. We know all of this and yet we still make the choice not to do it. I couldn’t understand why people weren’t doing the work.” Iina’s main job as a personal trainer began to be more motivational than physical.

According to Iina, one of her most successful ventures for motivation was the Star Program. “I made little cards for everyone. Each time you completed a task you got a different colored star.

This gave them internal motivation to get to the next level. The first star would be easy; like getting a blood pressure test. They would then build as people felt more pride associated with getting more stars.” Although it might fundamentally seem silly that grown men and women were getting that excited about a sticker the concept seem to work.

Iina wanted to further explore this idea of exercise and motivational physiology. After being accepted at NALAmag.com

LSU as a PhD candidate Iina moved back down south to Louisiana to start her doctorial work. It was here that Iina would experience the other side of health for the first time. “The culture of Louisiana got the best of me. Everything tasted so good. It was difficult to stay motivated and eat healthy. I fell into the Louisiana food trap. Big meals, lots of drinking, and very few nutrient dense foods.” This change in lifestyle left her feeling depressed and tired. Every joint in her body ached. It happened slowly.

“It is so hard to see. I knew I wasn’t as healthy as I had been. I would look at other people and think that I was more fit than most 30 year olds. So I continued to let it go.” Many of us feel this way at some point. It is hard to make the right decisions all the time when the lure of Louisiana kitchens lurks on every corner. No one wants to be left out of the fun of Sunday brunch because they are restricted by a diet. “I decided I had to put myself in rehab” Iina said.

Iina had to change her mindset back to “what fit Iina would do”. She had the source knowledge. It took a burst of will to change her Louisiana graduate student ways back to the “fit Iina” lifestyle that had served her mind and body so well for years before. “I started eating 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. I didn’t want to start out with what I couldn’t eat. I wanted to focus on what I could eat. If you are eating 5 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday it is difficult to eat too many non-nutrient dense foods because you get full. You naturally cut other things out.” Not able to jump right back into her old fitness routines Iina went back to basics. “I started walking. I printed out a calendar and put it on the fridge.

That was a daily reminder to me of the goals I wanted to achieve.” It was a very odd feeling for Iina to have to motivate herself to do something that had been so natural before.

After getting herself back to “Fit Iina” it was time to share the love. With her PhD in hand Iina started personal training to share the love and spread the health. As a trainer Iina proclaims her coaching style as the love child of Jillian Michaels and Richard Simmons.

“I don’t take the ‘no pain no gain approach.’ When I had to start-over during graduate school all I did was walk

at first. I was in too much pain to do much more. If you push too much too soon you will hurt yourself or hate the exercise.” Iina has transformed herself into more of a teacher than a trainer.

“I teach each one of my clients what is in the food they eat. They then understand what they are doing when they eat the nutrient poor foods. They know what it will do to their bodies and, more importantly, how they will feel as a result of it.” This type of personal accountability training is what helps individuals make the changes that they want to make. “People may know that an apple is good for them, but why is it good for you? How does it interact with the body differently than a poboy?” It is this personal and cellular response that helps people take control of their lives and make positive changes in their habits. Self-monitoring techniques, tools on how to deal with cultural activities and social pressures, all stem from this foundation. “In New Orleans our holiday season starts at Thanksgiving and ends with Jazzfest. There are about 3 months out of the year that are slightly less festive. There is no waiting until after the holidays. It’s learning how to live within them that is the trick.”

“My goal is to be able to fire myself. I want them to get to a point of self-sufficiency so that they don’t need me. I want to know they will be able to do it on their own.” There is no gym, no gimmicks, no memberships nothing but Iina.

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January 2016

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What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?

HEMP

Not Just for Hippies Anymore

C

annabis. Marijuana. Pot. Weed. Ganja. Hemp. Reefer. Dope. It’s all the same thing, right?

While legislators may have us believe this myth, it could not be farther from the truth. Hemp and marijuana are not the same thing, yet public perception that both are inherently detrimental is pervasive in today’s society.

If you’re confused about the difference, rest assured you are not the only one.

Just this month, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was asked about her stance on industrial hemp production and responded, “It’s a plant, right?” and proceeded to discuss reclassifying marijuana as a schedule two narcotic.

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Hemp and marijuana are both commonly used terms for the cannabis plant. These products come from different cultivars—or varieties—of the same species: cannabis sativa. They have several differences, including how they grow, their uses, and most importantly, their chemical makeup.

Historically, some cultivars—or varieties—of cannabis were recognized as being psychoactive and bred selectively for medical and religious purposes. This unique cultivar is known as marijuana.

Hemp is a different cultivar of cannabis, which was bred for industrial purposes such as paper, textiles, and rope. Differentiating between hemp and marijuana may just change your mind about utilizing hemp in your everyday life.

The primary difference between marijuana and hemp is the chemical makeup of cannabinoids, the diverse chemical compounds secreted by cannabis flowers. Cannabinoids activate specific receptors found throughout the body to produce pharmacologic effects, particularly in the central nervous system and immune system. While there are close to 400 cannabinoids found in cannabis, the two most active are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Understanding these two cannabinoids is the key to understanding the difference between hemp and marijuana.

THC is the cannabinoid responsible for giving smokers a stoned feeling, and gives the plant as a whole a universal reputation for being a recreational drug.

Varieties of recreational and medical marijuana are bred to maximize THC content, which can range from 10 to 25%. By law, industrial hemp has less than 0.3% of THC. CBD, by contrast, is devoid of psychoactive effect and has healing powers that have been recognized and researched for centuries. CBD is the most prominent cannabinoid component found in hemp, comprising up to 40% of the plant.

In summary, industrial hemp is the non-psychoactive, low-THC, oilseed and fiber variety of the cannabis plant.

Hemp has absolutely no use as a recreational drug.

Hemp’s Industrial Importance and Downfall

Hemp is the oldest domesticated crop known to man. According to the Columbia History of the World Book, the oldest relic of human industry is a bit of hemp fabric found in Taiwan, dating back to approximately 8000 BC. From 1000 BC until the late 1800s, hemp was the world’s largest agricultural crop and was used to produce thousands of products derived from its seeds and oils, extracted for the high protein content for humans and animals alike.

Henry VIII encouraged farmers to plant the crop extensively to provide materials for the British naval fleet. A steady supply of hemp was needed for the construction of battleships and their components. Riggings, pendants, pennants, sails, and oakum (a fiber used for caulking wooden ships) were all made from hemp fiber and oil.

Rudolf Diesel, inventor of the diesel engine, intended for his engine to be powered by vegetable oils and agricultural waste including hemp.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Henry Ford operated a successful biomass conversion plant producing hemp fuel at Ford’s Iron Mountain facility in Michigan.

Viewing hemp as a threat, competing industries and special-interest groups initiated a smear campaign, led by newspaperman William Randolph Hearst. Hearst, who owned a number of paper mills that competed with hemp products, published articles lumping hemp together with psychoactive marijuana, which he blamed for the moral corruption of American youth. DuPont petrochemical company and Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon—DuPont’s major financial backer—were heavily invested in petroleum resources and likewise saw hemp as a threat.

Racial tensions also played a significant role in the movement to ban marijuana and hemp. Propaganda films like “Reefer Madness” (1926) portrayed an exaggerated cautionary tale that blamed hemp for turning teenagers into mentally unstable, jazz-loving criminals. During this period, “jazz” was of course synonymous with “African Americans,” and every white parent’s

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nightmare was discovering that their child was spending time in a jazz club.

Another theory is that the presence of anti-immigrant sentiments played into the criminalization of marijuana, also known as Mexican “locoweed.” Tensions in southwestern states developed between small American farmers and larger farms that used cheap Mexican labor. With the onset of the Great Depression, jobs and welfare resources became scarce. An unfounded fear of Mexican immigrants combined the hallucinogenic drugs they allegedly used produced a wave of public action against the marijuana menace, which resulted in state restrictions and ultimately federal prohibition.

During the 1970’s all mention of the word “hemp” was removed from high school textbooks and hemp became almost a forgotten relic of history.

U.S. Legislation

In colonial America, farmers in Virginia, Massachusetts, and Connecticut were ordered by law to grow Indian hemp.

By the early 18th century, a person could be imprisoned for not growing hemp on their land.

The 1937 Marijuana Tax Act made hemp cultivation by American farmers nearly impossible. Only recently did the Farm Bill of 2013 recognize the legitimacy of industrial hemp research, define industrial hemp as distinct from other cannabis products, and autho-

rize institutions of higher education to conduct research. Since then, thirteen states have statutes establishing commercial industrial hemp programs and seven states have passed laws establishing industrial hemp programs that are limited to agricultural or academic research purposes, however, Louisiana is not among them. For example, the University of Hawaii’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources recently established a two-year industrial hemp remediation and biofuel crop research program.

Ron Paul has long been a supporter of industrial hemp production, citing Midwestern farmers’ inability to compete with their Canadian counterparts.

Bernie Sanders is also a strong supporter and co-sponsored the bi-partisan Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2015, which amended the Controlled Substances Act to exclude industrial hemp from the definition of marijuana.

Today, growing hemp or selling live hemp is legal in some states with the proper licenses issued by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). As a result, most hemp products sold in the United States are made from hemp grown in other countries. It is legal to import and sell industrial hemp products in their final form.

Resistance to Legalization of Industrial Hemp Production

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tion is legal in 30 countries, including France and China, where more than 95% of the world’s hemp is produced.

Canada has a robust hemp industry and exports hemp products to the United States. So, why the resistance to just let it happen?

First, the social stigma against cannabis and the belief that marijuana and hemp are the same product have drastically inhibited our nation’s ability to produce hemp at an industrial level.

Congressman Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky), points out, “Republicans don’t want to be seen as weak on the war on drugs.” Kentucky was the largest producer of hemp before the civil war and Massie would like to see it provide jobs and economic security in the mountainous eastern region of his state where nearly 20% of people live below the poverty line.

There are also competing interests, particularly from the timber, energy, and pharmaceutical industries.

The National Narcotics Officers’ Associations Coalition opposes legalization of this industry for two reasons: (1) there is no way for law enforcement officers to visually distinguish between hemp and marijuana, and (2) fears that marijuana will be comingled with hemp plants. In reality, these two plants are cultivated in different environments. While marijuana requires stable light, temperature, humidity, and oxygenation to yield higher THC levels, its low-maintenance cousin is grown outdoors and has higher stalks with no flowering buds. Visually, the two plants are very different. These plants are also harvested at different times. By analogy, powdered sugar can be confused for cocaine, but no one has suggested that Domino’s 10-X sugar be pulled from the shelves.

Commingling the plants is highly unlikely because cross-pollination would significantly reduce the potency (i.e. the THC levels) of the marijuana plants. In fact, a strong case can be made that the best way to reduce the THC level of marijuana grown outdoors would be to grow industrial hemp near it. An experiment in Russia found that hemp pollen could travel 7.5 miles.

This would mean that a hemp field would create a zone with a 7.5-mile radius within which no marijuana grower

would want to establish a crop.

Finally, lawmakers argue that the lack of demand for hemp products means that the legalization of hemp will not result in an economic boom promised by supporters. But according to the Hemp Industry Association, about half a billion dollars’ worth of hemp product is imported to the U.S. every year. That’s already half a billion dollars that could be spent on American made products.

Hemp Products

Industrial hemp is a versatile, clean, sustainable alternative to many products you use every day: z Hemp seeds can be ingested either raw or in teas, hemp milk, protein powders and many other consumable products. The seeds and leaves are very high in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, protein (almost as high a concentration as meat, eggs and milk), 18 essential amino acids, iron, zinc, manganese, and roughly 80% essential fatty acids. z Hemp seed oil is even better than fish oil because it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with skin conditions, arthritis, blood pressure and high-cholesterol. z Fiber: throughout history, hemp was used to produce rope, canvas, linen, fabric, clothing, and many other textiles. Hemp cordage and rope is stronger than synthetic, nylon rope. z Paper produced from hemp is much cheaper, environmentally friendly, more durable and longer lasting than paper produced from timber. z Hemp fiber mixed with fiberglass, flax, and kenaf is used to produce composite materials, which many automobile manufacturers are now using as panels on their cars. z Hemp and lime are utilized to produce a building material known as hempcrete. Hemp can also be used to produce fiberboard, non-toxic insulation, and other building materials.

Here are some hemp products that you can use in your everyday life:

z

The Body Shop sells hemp moisture high balm for very dry skin z Pacific Foods Non-GMO Hemp Milk is high in Omega-3 and Omega-6

fatty acids and has a delicious nutty flavor (available at Whole Foods) z Aloha combines pea, pumpkin seed, and hemp seed to make a plantbased protein powder that is vegan, non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free, soyfree, and all natural (www.aloha.com) z Bob’s Red Mill Hemp Protein Powder is available at Whole Foods z Shop for hemp wool, fabric, clothes, shoes, bath towels cord, rope, and even glow-in-the dark yarn at Hemptique (http://hemptique.net/collections/) z Tame frizz and flyaways with hemp shampoo and conditioner. It is great for dry hair as it is highly moisturizing and provides essential proteins and fatty acids. z Try Nature’s Gate, available at Whole Foods. z Nutivia hemp seeds and hemp seed oil can be purchased at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Our Daily Bread Market & Bakery in Baton Rouge, Sunshine Garden in Covington, and Out of Eden Health Market in Morgan City z Area rugs, sofas, dog beds, curtains, and other home furnishings made from hemp or hemp-cotton blends are available on rawganique.com and wayfair.com z Strong, durable hammocks

There are many obstacles to overcome in order to promote industrial hemp production. Such production threatens the status quo of the timber, pharmaceutical, and oil industries and has therefore not been seriously pursued on a macro scale as a source of energy, medicine, textiles, nutrition, or building supplies. It is up to consumers to create the demand for these natural, sustainable products.

So go hug it out with the next hippie you smell in the Marigny and admit, “Turns out you were right all along about this one. Hemp is good!”

In all likelihood, he’ll offer you a joint.

Meredith Bambrick is an international development specialist who has worked on sustainable agricultural and ecotourism development projects in North Africa, West Africa, and Southeast Asia.

She returned to the U.S. to attend law school at Tulane University where she earned a J.D. in international and comparative law and an LL.M. in law and development. Ms. Bambrick is presently based in Minneapolis.

In short, these products are natural, and better than their synthetic counterparts.

Environmentally Friendly

Hemp production requires no pesticides and grows very easily in most climates with minimal maintenance.

Hemp can be used to purify soil and water and is actually being used to clean contaminants in the environment left over from the Chernobyl nuclear accident site. Biofuels can be created from hemp seed oil. Buying hemp paper products can help reduce deforestation.

The Way Forward

The sooner industrial hemp is understood, the sooner the stigma will be lifted. On the supply side, perhaps the best way forward is for hemp producers to distance themselves from medical marijuana growers, thereby gaining appeal to a wider audience. natural awakenings

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The Rise of Functional Medicine New Paradigm Gets to the Root Cause of Disease

by Lisa Marshall

B

y the end of 2014, Trina Mills, of Parker, Arizona, had given up on conventional medicine. She’d been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder 17 years earlier and taken medication ever since without feeling her symptoms of fatigue, muscle aches and stomach problems ever fully subside. She’d visited endocrinologists, gastroenterologists and a half-dozen other specialists, each of which offered a different

diagnosis and prescribed a different drug.

At one point, she had her gallbladder removed. At another, her doctor suspected she had bleeding in her brain and sent her for a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan.

Some thought she was a hypochondriac; others said she was depressed. “I would tell them, ‘I’m just depressed that you can’t figure out why I’m so sick,’” she says.

Weighing a skeletal 82 pounds, the 54-year-old mother of three finally wrote out a living will and braced for the inevitable. Then she heard of a new Center for Functional Medicine opening at the prestigious, century-old Cleveland Clinic. As the first clinic of its kind to open at an academic medical center, it promised to look at the underlying causes of disease, while focusing on the whole person, rather than isolated symptoms.

Intrigued, Mills caught a flight to Ohio and soon was offering up 30 tubes of blood, stool and saliva samples, as well as an exhaustive life history. One year later, thanks to a series of personalized diet and lifestyle changes, she’s 10 pounds heavier and feels better than she has in decades. “I spent a lot of years and money in the traditional medical system and got nothing,” says Mills. With functional medicine, “In a very short time, they had me feeling nearly 100 percent.”

Distinctive Characteristics

In the 25 years since nutritional biochemist Jeffrey Bland, Ph.D., of Gig Harbor, Washington, coined the term, this science-based, whole-body approach to addressing chronic disease has gained widespread traction. More than 100,000 physicians—60 percent of them medical doctors—have trained with the Institute for Functional Medicine he founded in Washington and New Mexico, and numerous medical schools have added its tenets to their curricula. More naturopaths and chiropractors are also distinguishing themselves with a functional medicine emphasis.

“It is not alternative medicine at all,” stresses Bland, whose latest book, The Disease Delusion, details how functional medicine can curb chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, dementia, and heart disease, which constitute 78

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percent of U.S. health care costs. “It’s the basis of 21st-century health care,” he says.

For most of the 20th century, conventional medicine centered on a singular objective: Arrive at a diagnosis and treat it with drugs or surgery. Then, the alternative medicine movement proffered a toolbox of more natural therapies, including acupuncture, herbs and massage to address these same diagnoses. The 1990s brought integrative medicine, a best-of-both-worlds approach.

“While all of the above have merit, they lack the necessary guidance to help practitioners determine which tools work best for which patient,” says Dr. Mark Hyman, director of the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Functional Medicine.

“Alternative therapies and conventional treatments are tools. We need a new map that can teach us how to skillfully use those tools,” maintains Hyman.

“That map is functional medicine.”

Because one chronic disease such as diabetes can have dozens of underlying causes, or one culprit such as a genetic predisposition or exposure to toxins can lead to multiple chronic conditions, functional medicine focuses on systems, rather than organs, and origins, rather than diseases. “It’s about listening

to the patient’s story in a different way, where the objective is not simply about arriving at a diagnosis,” explains Bland.

Ferreting Out Key Clues

Key to discovering the underlying origins of a health issue are a host of new gene, blood and gut health tests. “They allow us to look under the patient’s ‘metabolic hood’ at the genetic and biochemical factors influencing health,” says Naturopathic Doctor Kara Fitzgerald, who heads up a functional medicine clinic in Newtown, Connecticut.

For instance, certain genes influence how a person burns and stores fat. Depending on which variant a patient has, based on a genetic test, they might be guided toward a higher- or lower-fat diet. Those genetically prone to difficulty in metabolizing the amino acid homocysteine (an excess of which can raise the risk of heart disease) might be advised to take folic acid supplements.

If a patient displays intractable gut problems, rather than simply look for blood or pathogens in the stool, Fitzgerald also looks at the DNA of their gut microbiome, mapping out which strains of good bacteria are present or absent and prescribing prebiotics,

natural awakenings

probiotics or whole foods to promote a healthful balance.

For another patient with thinning hair and aching joints, she might use specialized blood tests to look for micronutrient deficiencies, signs of allergies or certain autoantibodies—proteins produced by the immune system that mistakenly attack one’s own tissues— that might herald a brewing autoimmune disorder. “Research shows that predictive autoantibodies can show up in the blood 10 or even 20 years before an autoimmune disease such as Type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis makes itself known,” says Fitzgerald, pointing to a seminal review published in 2007 in Scientific American: “If a patient with mild, early-stage symptoms is proactive with diet and lifestyle changes, they may be able to fend it off.”

High-tech tests aside, Bland stresses that what’s most important is “a tool that has been largely lost in medicine today: Knowing how to listen to the patient.”

In a typical exam, Fitzgerald thoroughly inspects often neglected body parts, including the tongue and fingernails, which can hold important clues to underlying health. She asks about past emotional trauma which might

January 2016

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trigger chronic disease, and inquires about what environmental toxins and harmful chemicals both the patient and their birth parents may have been exposed to. One example might be a patient exposed to cigarette smoking in utero having a bias toward an allergic disease. If their parents grew up in a period of famine, they might have inherited a genetic disposition for rapid weight gain.

“She spent two-and-a-half hours with me,” in her initial consultation, recalls 52-year-old Lauren Zambrelli, of Long Island, New York, who credits Fitzgerald for helping her tame her multiple sclerosis into remission. “It was like having a sister for a doctor.”

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Who Pays

Functional medicine doctors don’t shy away from prescription drugs when necessary, but they do lean decidedly toward the lower-tech modalities, using dietary supplements, allergen-free diets, exercise, mind-body practices and toxin avoidance as their primary tools. “We basically take out the bad stuff from the body and put in the good stuff,” says Hyman.

Maintaining good health is priceless, but without conventional insurance coverage, it can be expensive. While Mills’ doctor visits were covered by insurance (which is rare), she spends roughly $1,000 a month on supplements to address her diagnosed leaky gut syndrome, nutrient deficiencies and mercury poisoning. Zambrelli has paid thousands out of her own pocket, too.

Some people worry that, like most conventional physicians, some functional medicine practitioners place too much emphasis on expensive tests and too little on the most crucial and affordable remedy—self-care. “Functional medicine as a concept is an important step forward,” says integrative medicine pioneer Dr. James Gordon, founder of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C., and San Francisco. “However, some practitioners do a lot of tests and prescribe a lot of supplements and work on cleaning out the gut, but neglect the psychological, spiritual and social issues.

That concerns me.”

Bland and Hyman concede that some practitioners over-test, but say that will fade over time as they learn to better discriminate which ones are useful for specific patients.

Several efforts also are underway to get more functional medicine providers and the acupuncturists, massage therapists and nutritionists they work with covered under the Affordable Care Act, which expressly emphasizes a need for more preventive medicine.

Viewing the big picture, Bland believes that functional medicine is just what the country needs to save on exploding healthcare costs. Rather than spending dollars on extraordinary measures to save heart attack victims or diabetics in emergencies, we can prevent such dire situations by identifying underlying problems sooner and halting their progression.

In the meantime, some patients are finding priceless relief. “Am I poorer right now? Yes,” says Mills. “Am I healthier?

Way. It’s been so worth it.”

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO, who specializes in health care. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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Thousands of Studies Show Healing Results

by Kathleen Barnes

T

he ancient Chinese art of acupuncture is gaining popularity in modern Western medicine for many reasons. “There’s lots of research to support the effectiveness of acupuncture for a wide variety of conditions,” says Thomas Burgoon, a medical doctor who practices internal medicine in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and is president of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, an association of doctors of medicine and osteopathic medicine that use acupuncture in conjunction with conventional treatments.

Acupuncture treatments typically involve the nearly painless insertion of very thin needles to stimulate the body’s natural repair and regulation mechanisms based on the fundamental Chinese medicine principle that the inside of the body can often be treated from the outside.

Burgoon explains that acupuncture works by stimulating and releasing the body’s natural pain relievers, including endorphins, producing the feel-good brain chemical serotonin and relieving inflammation, as well as bringing many other body processes into normal function.

Brevard, North Carolina, licensed master acupuncturist Paul Buchman, adds, “Acupuncture differs from conNALAmag.com

ventional Western medicine in many ways, primarily in that when it treats a disease on the physical level, it also has far-reaching effects on our mental, emotional and spiritual aspects.”

Chronic back pain: Chronic low back pain affects 80 percent of us at some time and is the second-most common cause of disability in American adults, according to a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

A recent study of Australian patients arriving in Melbourne hospital emergency rooms complaining of low back pain found that those treated with acupuncture experienced as much pain relief in an hour as those given drugs.

“When I treat a person for low back pain, I always take pulses in several parts of the body, and then take into account many factors, including age, gender and life situation,” says Buchman. “The underlying causes of the pain may be different in a 20-something student with a stressful academic load than a 50-something woman that’s a recent empty nester redefining her future,” he explains.

When researchers at China’s

Central South University reviewed 13 studies on acupuncture and low back pain, they concluded that comprehensive treatment plans that involve acupuncture are urgently needed.

Headache: Acupuncture has long been used to relieve the pain of migraines and tension headaches. Australian research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that 16 acupuncture sessions cut in half the number of days that patients experienced migraines, significantly reducing pain.

“Acupuncture is a must-try therapy for anyone with migraines or chronic or tension-type headaches,” says Burgoon.

He notes that Aetna Insurance Company policy considers acupuncture among accepted, medically necessary treatments for migraines, chronic low back pain, knee osteoarthritis, postoperative dental pain and nausea associated with surgery, pregnancy and chemotherapy.

Asthma and allergies: More than 25 million Americans have asthma, including 6.8 million children. Danish research published in the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine showed that 10 acupuncture sessions given over a three-month period reduced asthma symptoms and use of inhaled steroids, but only when acupuncture was ongoing. Benefits diminished when treatments were discontinued. German researchers at Berlin’s Charité University Medical Center found similar effects for seasonal allergies by comparing it with the effects of antihistamines and sham acupuncture.

“Patterns of bad health get more ingrained in our body systems as we get older,” says Melanie Katin, a licensed acupuncturist specializing in treating children in New York City and professor at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. “If we can catch an illness in a child’s first seven or eight years, we may be able to prevent it from becoming chronic in adulthood.”

Digestive problems: Acupuncture has been found to be effective for treating colic in babies, irritable bowel syndrome, morning sickness and postoperative nausea caused by anesthesia and chemotherapy treatments, verified in research from Australia’s University of Sydney on patients after surgery for metastatic liver cancer. Several other studies, including one from the Milwau-kee’s Medical College of Wisconsin, show that acupuncture rebalances the nervous system and restores proper digestive function, while relieving pain.

The World Health Organization review of research notes how acupuncture relieved gastrointestinal (GI) spasms better than atropine injections, and also recommends acupuncture for relief of nausea. “Acupuncture helps calm down an overactive GI tract and stimulates an underactive one,” explains Burgoon.

Acupuncture is a non-pharmaceutical remedy for many health problems, Burgoon says. “I fell in love with acupuncture when I discovered I could use it to treat some problems that nothing else helped. I almost never prescribe any medications. Instead, I help people get off pharmaceuticals.”

Kathleen Barnes is author of many natural health books, including The Calcium Lie 2: What Your Doctor Still Doesn’t Know, with Dr. Robert Thompson. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com. natural awakenings

January 2016

25

greenliving

It’s Easy to Be Green At Home and On the Road

by Avery Mack

L

“

iving green means living well, using what you create with minimal waste,” says Mike Bond, an ecologist and bestselling activist author in Winthrop, Maine. Here, he and other savvy sources share tips to go ever greener in ways that are painless and affordable.

Start Small 4 Choose the best bulb for the job.

Light bulbs can confuse even informed shoppers. Incandescent bulbs last more than 750 hours, but aren’t energy-efficient. Fluorescent bulbs use 75 percent less energy than incandescent and last 10 to 15 times longer. A 20-watt compact fluorescent light (CFL) uses 550 fewer kilowatt-hours than a 75-watt incandescent bulb. For additional information, check Tinyurl.com/EnergyInfo LightBulbs. For a free app showing the best buy, visit LightBulbFinder.net.

4 Use appliance thermometers. Widely available, this useful tool will confirm a correct operating temperature of 37 to 40 degrees in the refrigerator and zero degrees in the freezer. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a warmer fridge allows bacteria to grow, while 10 degrees cooler than the ideal range increases energy use 25 percent.

Chiller units work harder if the room temperature exceeds 70 degrees, so keep appliances out of direct sunlight and away from the stove.

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4 Find the right seeds and plants. Then get quick advice on how many to buy and how and when to plant using the SmartGardener.com step-by-step app. It encompasses more than 3,000 organic, GMO-free, edible varieties.

4 No dishpan hands. A full load of dishes in a water-efficient dishwasher uses four gallons of water versus 24 gallons for handwashing them, according to Seametrics, which manufactures flow meters.

4 Test the toilet. If a few drops of food coloring added to the toilet tank colors water in the bowl, replace the flap. It’s an easy and inexpensive DIY task. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that one in 10 homes leaks a cumulative 90 gallons a day.

4 Fix the faucet. One drip per second equals 3,000 gallons a year wasted, Seametrics calculates.

4 Reset the hot water heater to 120 degrees. This safe and efficient setting also reduces corrosion and mineral buildup.

4 Discover soap nuts and wool dryer balls. Dried soapberry fruit shells contain saponin, which works like most detergents and soaps. Toss five or six whole shells (one-half ounce) in a wash bag with the laundry. They’re good for five to eight reuses. All-natural sheep’s wool dryer balls shorten drying time, soften and fluff fabric, reduce static and help keep pet hair off of clothes.

NALAmag.com

4 Change the car’s air filter. Maintain a clean filter according to manufacturer’s guidelines and visual inspection, about every 30,000 to 45,000 miles.

4 Use an oil-change service. In Connecticut alone, do-it-yourselfers change 9.5 million gallons of motor oil a year, and 85 percent of it ends up in sewers, soil and trash as a major groundwater pollutant. Earth Talk reports that one quart can create a two-acre oil slick; a gallon can contaminate a million gallons of fresh water. While the more costly chemicals in synthetic oil create the same amount of pollution as traditional oil, it doesn’t need to be changed as often.

4 Carpool. The Green Living Ideas media network condones Uber, Lyft and Sidecar apps for making ridesharing ultra-accessible.

Go Greener 4 Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models. Check out a unit’s Energy Star rating. Consider a tankless heater for hot water on demand, rather than 24/7 heating.

4 Choose eco-tires. Low rolling resistance improves gas mileage and reduces emissions. Keep tires properly inflated and periodically rotated for longer wear. Watch for future innovations in sustainable materials currently in research and development.

4 Ban idling. Don’t idle an electronic fuel-injected engine for more than 30 seconds when parked in cold weather; it warms up faster by being driven, explains the U.S. Department of Energy.

Fuel injection engines took over in the 1980s and early 90s. Only older carburetors need a couple of minutes’ warm-up. The Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory further advises, “Idling for more than 10 seconds uses more fuel and emits more CO2 than engine restarting.”

4 Ask for pet- and eco-friendly antifreeze. Choose less toxic red-orange propylene glycol antifreeze instead of green ethylene glycol antifreeze, which is poisonous to pets and people. Dispose of both types properly, as they are toxic to wildlife and fish via groundwater, as well.

4 Green-clean car windows. Choose

a brand like EvergreeN Windshield Washer Fluid, which is plant-derived, eco-friendly, non-toxic and biodegradable. Traditional blue fluid is methanol, combined methyl alcohol and wood alcohol, and extremely poisonous, especially to children and pets.

Inspired • Loving • Energized • Fun

Go Big 4 Switch to a heat pump. “A heat pump works the reverse of a refrigerator; it takes cold air from the outside and turns it into warm air inside, and uses no oil or gas,” explains Bond.

4 Go solar. It’s the eco-alternative to conventional electricity generation.

“Solar means that you’re creating your own power,” says Bond, who has used solar for years. “It works on an elegant cycle—create energy, use energy.”

Leased solar panels reduce the cost of equipment, which has dropped dramatically in recent years.

4 Get a hybrid car. In combination with solar power, a hybrid vehicle can reduce or eliminate daily energy costs.

“An electric car is perfect when commutes are not long,” Bond discloses.

“If charged in the day, it can serve as the battery for a solar home at night, when no power is being created.”

An extraordinary spiritual family honoring all religions, paths and lifestyles.

Join Usl

n1ty

of Metairie

JACK FOWLER, Spiritual Director 3939Veterans Mem. Blvd., Metairie, LA 70002 (Close to Cleary; behind Parran's PoBoys; parking available)

Connect with freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

Go-Green Apps Here are three apps we suggest among the many available. n Green You is a free app. It calculates our eco-friendliness and suggests steps toward a deeper shade of green. ItAnyPlace.com/support/ greenyou n Recycle offers a free national database of 100,000 recycling and disposal locations for 200 products. Specify the item and find local options with contact information. Earth911.com/ eco-tech/irecycle-now-on-android n eEcosphere helps users discover, adopt and share the best sustainable living ideas and makes it easy to share specific actions and ideas with friends via social media. eEcosphere.com natural awakenings

January 2016

27

fitbody

The Power of Conscious Dance Creative Movement Connects Body, Mind and Spirit

by Gail Condrick

A growing tribe of movers and shakers are discovering and unleashing their power in conscious dance, a combination of moving meditation, soul-stirring music, self-expression and sweat.

M

“

ost are familiar with the performance or competitive dance world of learned steps.

Conscious dance is a non-competitive, body-based way of raising consciousness. There’s no wrong way to move and your shape and measurements don’t matter,” says Mark Metz, of Berkley, California, founder and executive director of the Dance First Association (DFA) and publisher of the Conscious Dancer Magazine and UpShift Guide.

The group identifies more than 100 forms of conscious dance, ranging from ecstatic dance to somatic movement therapy. Commonalities include body awareness, barefoot movement, inspiring global music and minimal structure facilitated by leaders.

With 1,000 DFA studio locations, many are finding the power of 28

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conscious dance suits their search for movement with purpose beyond improved fitness as it’s practiced in drug- and alcohol-free club-style events and ecstatic dance experiences, as well as dance fitness programs. “It’s about honoring body intelligence and paying attention to the body and mind-body connection,” says Metz.

“The modalities mentioned most often are 5Rhythms, Soul Motion, Open Floor, JourneyDance, and the Nia Technique,” says Metz. A brief look at three of them shows how each has its own style.

5Rhythms In St. Petersburg, Florida, 22 women have gathered to seek the bliss promised by 5Rhythms, one of the original conscious dance forms, founded by NALAmag.com

the late Gabrielle Roth. “Find your flow. Feel your connection to the Earth through your feet and release your head,” guides facilitator Amber Ryan, of New York City, who travels the world for dance sessions. “Use your body as a gateway into the now.” For two hours, dancers move freely and individually, swaying, sensing and interacting in an experience called “the wave”, intended to move energy through the body, release emotions and heal the psyche.

It’s based on Roth’s premise that, “Each of us is a moving center, a space of divine mystery. Though we spend most of our time on the surface in daily ordinary existence, most of us hunger to connect to this space within, to break through to bliss, to be swept into something bigger.”

JourneyDance Toni Bergins, from the Massachusetts Berkshires, is a frequent presenter at the Kripalu Center and Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. After years of studying and teaching movement, drama, creative visualization and gestalt

Dance Sites DanceFirst.com 5Rhythms.com JourneyDance.com NiaNow.com OneDanceTribe.com OpenFloor.org SoulMotion.com

Connecting “within” through free and inspired body movement is the power of conscious dance. techniques, she combined them in creating JourneyDance.

More than 400 trained facilitators now offer it in 60- or 90-minute classes worldwide based on the philosophy, “Move into a new story!” Every class includes visualization, creative movement, affirmations and evocative music, all working together to release emotions and connect with spirit.

“You learn to love your body, expand your emotional intelligence, clear your mind and connect with your inner source,” explains Bergins. “You express yourself, infuse life with creativity and connect with a dancing community.”

Participants engage in a ritual journey of physical transformation, cleansing the body through breath, sweat and expression. In this safe space, “Dancers discover their power and personal heart medicine, their true essence,” says Bergins.

Nia Technique For those that prefer more structure, the Nia Technique is the original bare- foot mind-body-spirit fitness practice, activating sensation and awareness in a workout adaptable for everybody. More than 2,600 instructors in 51 countries offer 60-minute classes where enthusiasts move the way the body is built to move, reaping cardiovascular fitness and therapeutic benefits while having joyful fun. Dancers, guided by instructor’s moves, feel the rhythm of the music and ground themselves in spirit, equipping themselves to take the self-healing experience into everyday life.

“Nia has always blended form and freedom,” says Debbie Rosas, of Portland, Oregon, co-founder and creator of the technique. “We are now introducing new FreeDance classes to bring what we have learned through Nia to embody consciousness in new ways, conditioning the whole body and nervous system. It’s an invitation to move in free, unbound, unstructured ways to offset the tendency we have to move less as we age.”

Dancers move to music designed to animate each chakra through an eight-stage process via a Nia DJ. They’re guided to listen to body feedback through sensation, release emotions and relish being in the present moment. “Regardless of how you act, dress or think, the way you feel inside reveals the most accurate truth of oneself and this is reflected in dance,” says Rosas. “Moving without interference allows your unconscious creative self to shine. You can connect to the sacred artist within; the one that holds a palette with endless colors, shapes and possibilities.” She sees life as ultimately a free-style dance into the self that supports a philosophy of “Love your body, love your life”.

“Dance is in everyone’s family tree, a universal message,” says Metz. “In conscious dance, you disconnect from gadgets and reconnect with yourself and others around you.

People need that.”

Gail Condrick is a Nia faculty member, retreat leader and archetypal soul coach in Sarasota, FL. Connect at GaelaVisions.com.

Master King Lam Over 45 years of Martial Arts Experience Improve Balance and Flexibility Rejuvenate Energy Reduce Stress Discover Qi Gong Energy Methods Build Self Confidence Lose Weight

Tai Chi is a moving meditation done in slow flowing rhythmic motions.

These are vital energy exercises to rejuvenate body energy and to help you achieve better mind, body and spirit.

TAMASHII KARATE

& TAI CHI CENTER

504-866-2241

Group & Private Classes – Men, Women & Children

8132 Willow Street, Uptown, New Orleans Kinglam1199@gmail.com • www.KingLamTaiChi-Karate.com

natural awakenings

January 2016

29

naturalpet

The Right Vet for Your Pet Animals Thrive with Gentle, Safe and Natural Approaches

Let your life lightly dance on the edges of time like dew on the tip of a leaf. ~Rabindranath Tagore

by Shawn Messonnier

P

et parents have many criteria to consider when choosing a healthcare provider for their prized pet, and among the most vital is trying to find a doctor that uses holistic thera-

Georganna Ranglack, DVM, PhD Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Greater New Orleans

504-874-1189 30

SE Louisiana

Drug-free treatment for common conditions with acupuncture.

House calls or office visits by appointment.

NALAmag.com

pies, because the advantages are many.

Wellness care is more than vaccines. While many conventional vets consider giving vaccines and flea medications to all of their patients to be their best form of wellness care, holistic vets know these aren’t always necessary and can potentially be harmful. Instead, true wellness care involves careful consideration of proper diet, blood titer testing instead of vaccines, natural parasite control when appropriate and a heavy dose of diagnostic testing (blood, urine, fecal) to monitor organ function, check for parasites, screen for disorders of the urogenital system, liver and pancreas and early screening for cancer and other inflammatory conditions. There’s also a full physical check for common diseases like dental and heart disease and tumors.

Individualized prescriptions for a proper diet and supplements to maintain health are big reasons many owners prefer a holistic vet.

Natural treatments include disease prevention. Many pets treated via a more natural approach have an easier experience with occasional illness than those that don’t enjoy this specialized care. Natural therapies can quickly restore an ill pet to his homeostatic balance without the side effects often associated with multiple drug doses.

A team approach is expected. A holistic practice is a team effort, and the family doctor will suggest options for care, helping an owner decide on the best therapies for each pet.

A fuller range of options is available. While holistic vets prefer a more natural approach, they know that if necessary, conventional therapies can sometimes be an appropriate complement if they follow holistic principles, which means infrequent use of low-dose medications and only when absolutely needed. In general, most conditions can be treated successfully without drug therapy, extending the health and life of the patient and reducing medical costs.

Gentler anesthesia means quicker recovery. A naturally balanced and gentler approach means less drugging if anesthesia becomes necessary, close monitoring of an anesthetized pet, a smooth and quick recovery for prompt discharge from the hospital and natural forms of follow-up treatment to control post-operative pain and inflammation.

New hope rises for the hopeless.

Many pets are brought to holistic doctors after conventional care has failed to help them. Some have been turned away by practitioners of conventional medicine because their cases are diagnosed as “hopeless”. Holistic vets and pet parents alike experience considerable satisfaction in helping to give a joyful pet a whole new lease on life.

Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the award-winning author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.com.

classifieds To Place a Classified Listing Email to 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 – is the largest provider of supplemental insurance in the world and is now hiring Benefits Consultants. If you are interested in providing financial piece of mind for others when they need it most and would enjoy a professional position with a flexible schedule and unlimited income, please send your resume to melissa_burbank@us.aflac.com.

YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS – is a company dedicated to teaching the public about the power of essential oils AND how to incorporate them into their daily lives. If you are interested in becoming a distributor and educator please contact Coco Kunstman 504-344-7320, coco@younglavenderbuds.com , or visit us at www.younglavenderbuds.com.

RENTALS BROADMOOR IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION- HOLISTIC WELLNESS ROOMS FOR RENT – Our 130-square-foot counseling rooms are ideally suited for counselors, play therapists, nutritionists and social workers to see clients. Our 120-square-foot holistic treatment rooms are newly renovated and available for massage therapists, acupuncturists, reiki masters and other body workers to see clients. Contact wellness@broadmoorimprovement.com or 504481-4666 for more information

SERVICES

S U P P L E M E N TA L I N S U R A N C E F O R SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS – Ethisphere magazine has named Aflac one of its World’s Most Ethical Companies every year since the award’s inception in 2007–the only insurance company in the world that can make that claim. 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, please 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 calendar of events at http://www.meetup.com/ vegetarian-515/ members/7165804

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES BOYS HOPE GIRLS HOPE – By 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 or donate at BoysHopeGirlsHope.org.

CERTIFIED TRADITIONAL NATUROPATH – Learn to help others: help yourself. Starts February 2016 in Gulfport, Contact Betty Sue O'Brian at betty.obrian@gmail.com or 2282571946.

GIRLS ON THE RUN – We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. To become involved, visit GOTRNola.org.

P R A C T I C A L H E R B A L I S M – Practical Herbalist Certification Class starting February 2016. Meets monthly in Gulfport. Contact ninaday1945@gmail.com or 2282571946 for information.

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 other one of the many other opportunities, visit YouthRunNOLA.org or email Denali@YouthRunNOLA.com.

Natural Awakenings Magazine

504-975-0344

Visit our website! NALAmag.com natural awakenings

January 2016

31

A DV E RTO RI A L

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Manuka Honey is gathered in the wild back country of New Zealand from the native Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). The bees don’t use the pollen from a variety of other flowers or plants, so the content of the honey is very consistent. A 2013 study in the European Journal of Medical Research used Active Manuka Honey under dressings on postoperative wounds for an 85 percent success rate in clearing up infections, compared with 50 percent for normal antibiotic creams.

calendarofevents Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by January 10 for the February issue. $15/Event Calendar or $10/Ongoing Calendar listing. $25/PlanAhead Events, $69/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.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2

Medical Chi Kung Course – 3-4pm. With Sifu Tommy. Twelve-week class on Saturdays. Open the energy pathway of your central body which revitalizes your entire endocrine system, stimulating hormone production and affording a second youth. $400/ course fee. 31 Fifth St, Gretna. 985-630-2853. RSVP: MatthewAncira.com/contact-us.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4

4 Week Foundations Of Yoga Course – 7:45-9:30pm. with Nichol Moya; $60; Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown; 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA; 504-899-0047; www.WildLotusYoga.com New Year's Daily Yoga Practice Immersion with Vera Lester; January 4th-22nd, Mondays through Fridays, 6:30-8am. $250. Wild Lotus Yoga Uptown; 4842 Perrier St, New Orleans; (504) 899-0047; www.WildLotusYoga.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5

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.

Living the Unity Principles – 7pm. These powerful principles are simple to talk about yet can be challenging to fulfill in our daily experience. Join our open discussion on these timeless truths and how to implement them in your life. $5 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6

Essential Oils Home Care – Noon-1pm. Learn how to make household staples for a fraction of the cost using only natural ingredients from Young Lavender Buds. Light lunch provided. NOLA Float Tanks, 3013 20th St, Metairie. RSVP: 504-975-0344 or Melissa@YoungLavenderBuds.com.

DocTalks with Dr Eric Griggs – 6-7pm. Learn fun and interesting ways to stay fit and healthy with Doc Griggs. Free. 3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans.

504-481-4666.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8

Exploring Body Intelligences and How We Heal – 9-11am. First of a series of six monthly classes held the first Friday. Explore your bodies’ amazing abilities to heal, nourish, cleanse, repair and regenerate with Donna Caire. Topic: Nurturing and listening to your stomach, spleen and pancreas. $25/pay as able. Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation, Abita Springs. 985-8928111. WomensCenterForHealing.org.

Alchemy and the Hero’s Journey – 7:30pm. Presented by CG Jung Society. Jungian analyst Everett McLaren will explore the challenges encountered on the journey and the need for a strong and capable ego. SW and LPC CEUs. $15, $10/students, free/ members. Parker UMC, 1130 Nashville, New Orleans. http://www.jungneworleans.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9

King Lam's Karate & Tai Chi Center Open House – 9am-noon. Information on health, safety and wellness.

Free. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. 504-866-2241.

Tuning In, the Healing Yoga of Sound – 10am12:30pm. An in-depth experience of personal recalibration with Sadani J Houtz, Viniyoga and Kripalu Yoga Certified. An extraordinary exploration into vibration and sound including yoga asanas and the rich overtones of the gong, Tibetan bowls and mantra (chanting). $35/pay as able. Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation Abita Springs. 985-892-8111.

WomensCenterForHealing.org.

Rediscovering Your Inner Shaman in the Modern World – 1-4 pm. Modern man is losing our connection to the Spirit World. Using exercises and insights from Shamanism, Jungian psychology and Gestalt, we will reconnect and revitalize. $50. 433 Metairie Rd # 113, Metairie, LA 70005 Info: 504-931-9022.

Gestalt-Institute.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Shake Your Soul: The Yoga Of Dance Workshop –4-5:15pm. with Lisa Lutton; $15: Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown; 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA; 504-899-0047; www.WildLotusYoga.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

markyourcalendar

Blue Cliff College Massage Dept.

Continuing Education CEUs for LMTs Jan 23 & 24 Seasons of Shiatsu Series Winter- water element Carlene Banister, AOBTA Jan 30 & 31 Basics of Ortho-Bionomy Focus Spine & Pelvis Peggy Scott, Registered Instructor SOBI Feb 27 & 28 Basics of Ortho-Bionomy Focus Extremities Peggy Scott, Registered Instructor SOBI March 5&6 Massage Cupping Intro Annie Garic ACE Educator March 5-7 Massage Cupping Certification Annie Garic ACE Educator

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.

March 12 & 13 Hot Stone Massage Derrie Bergeron LMT

Deep Tissue Massage Clinic – 6:15 & 7:45pm. Also Jan 19. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Deep Tissue is muscle specific and really works out the kinks. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/ appointment: 504-293-0972.

March 19 & 20 Series of Shiatsu series Spring- renewal Carlene Banister, AOBTA

Holistic Education Monthly Meeting – 6:30-7:30pm.

Sponsored by Holistic Center for Health and Healing, Inc, Feng Shui for Health and Wealth, Feng Shui Master Wyming Sun. Free/open to the public. Old Metairie Library, 2350 Metairie Rd, Metairie. Info: 504 812-1332.

Heart Chakra Class – 7pm. With Paul Martinez and Brenda Aranda. Examine, reflect on, and work with this powerful chakra, driven by love; influencing forgiveness, compassion, empathy, and trust. Wear something green. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13

Essential Oils Wellness 101 – Noon-1pm. Learn how to use essential oils to help heal the body and promote general wellness without the costly price tag. Everything from allergies to cuts and burns. Light lunch provided.

NOLA Float Tanks, 3013 20th St, Metairie. RSVP: 504-975-0344 or Melissa@YoungLavenderBuds.com.

natural awakenings

BCC Clearview Mall, Metairie

504-293-0972 PeggyS@BlueCliffCollege.com Deep Tissue Massage Clinic – 12:45 & 2:15pm. Also Jan 20, 27 & 29. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Deep Tissue is a full body massage that really gets out the kinks. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) Clinic – 6:15 & 7:45pm. Also Jan 26. 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.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 15

Swedish Massage Clinic – 12:45 & 2:15pm. Also Jan 22. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Swedish is good for overall relaxation and increased flexibility. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/ appointment: 504-293-0972.

The Awakened Heart – 7-9pm. Evening talk by national speaker and mystic Francis Bennett of Finding Grace at the Center. A former Trappist monk, Bennett has studied and taught in both Buddhist and Christian traditions. Hosted by the Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation. $10/ticket. St Tammany Art Association, 320 N Columbia St, Covington. Info: 985-892-8111. Tickets: WomensCenterForHealing.org/ francis-bennett-events.html.

Mantra Music Concert with Sean Johnson & The Wild Lotus Band;7:30-9:30pm. $15 advance/$20 day of; Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown; 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA; (504) 899-0047; www.WildLotusYoga.com

Psychic Fair – Noon-6pm. 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.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17

Entering the Heart of Spiritual Practice: Integrating Masculine and Feminine Energies in the Heart – 10am-4pm. Spiritual retreat led by former Trappist monk Francis Bennett, a bridge builder between Eastern and Western mysticism. Includes a guided surrender practice. $60/tickets (discount with Sunday workshop) Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation, 71667 Leveson St, Abita Springs. 985-892-8111. Tickets: WomensCenterForHealing.org/francis-bennettevents.html.

Calendars Local Directory Digital Editions Distribition Locations Submissions

Meditation 4 Life Workshop – 1-3pm. Gain relief, attain peace and become more stable in the world.

Using backgrounds in multiple areas and genres of meditation, Matthew Ancira will open energy levels to allow light to shine on your path. All levels, beginners to advanced. Freret Street Yoga, 4608 Freret St, New Orleans. 504-899-1142. MatthewAncira.com.

Full Circle Awakening – 1-4:00 pm. Optional Q&A at 4-5pm. Waking Up and Out Of and Down and Into workshop led by former Trappist monk Francis Bennett.

A deep waking up from the idea and experience that we are limited to the human conditioning. Includes a guided loving kindness meditation. Hosted by the Women’s Center for Healing & Transformation. $35/ticket (discount with Saturday retreat). North Shore Unitarian Universalist Society, 28662 Krentel Rd, Lacombe. Info: 985-892-8111.Tickets: WomensCenterForHealing.org.

Uplifting and Presencing Space Workshop – 1-5pm.

Learn how to create a refined and anchored space conducive to a deeply nourishing meditation practice. Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115 Info: 504-897-3993 or Info@tibetanhouse.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 19

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.

Living the Unity Principles – 7pm. These powerful principles are simple to talk about yet can be challenging to fulfill in our daily experience. Join our open discussion on these timeless truths and how to implement them in your life. $5 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20

Essential Oils Beauty Basics – Noon-1pm. Get back to natural basics and learn how the use of essential oils can change your skin for the good naturally. Light lunch provided. NOLA Float Tanks, 3013 20th St, Metairie. RSVP: 504-975-0344 or Melissa@YoungLavenderBuds.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21

Swedish Massage Clinic – 6:15 & 7:45pm. Also Jan 28. Help a student with their education at our student massage clinic. Swedish is good for overall relaxation and increased flexibility. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/ appointment: 504-293-0972.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 22

All in One Place. Anytime.

NALAmag.com 34

SE Louisiana

NALAmag.com

Spiritual Cinema: Godspell – 7pm. A classic film that presents the gospel of St Matthew updated to late 60’s New York, featuring Jesus Christ as a wandering minstrel, joined by John the Baptist and nine simpatico hippies with a desire to spread the word of God around the city; re-enacting Biblical parables with great enthusiasm and flamboyance. $5 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23

Saturday Morning Massage Clinic – 9:15 & 10:45am.

Help a student with their education at the Student Massage Clinic. Modality: Neuromuscluar Therapy. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

Seasons of Shiatsu: Winter-Water Element – Jan 23-24. 10am-5pm. With Carlene Banister, AOBTA and Equine Therapist. Learn new techniques to help create balance in the water element, specifically the kidney and bladder channels. 12 CEUs for LMTs. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/register: 504-352-0039.

Psychic Fair – Noon-6pm. 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.

FOR THE LOVE OF YOGA: A Weekend To Celebrate The Student & Teacher Within. January 22January 24. With visiting teacher Tracy Bleier; multiple workshops and times; Wild Lotus Yoga Downtown; 2372 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA; (504) 899-0047; www.WildLotusYoga.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 26

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.

Jesus: A New Thought Teacher? Class – 7pm. With Paul Martinez and Brenda Aranda. Does “new thought” conflict with the Jesus we were brought up with in traditional Christian churches? Are the teachings of Jesus compatible with the ideas of this ‘new’ spiritual paradigm? We’ll look at these questions and explore the possibility of seeing Jesus’ teachings in a different way. $10 suggested donation. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27

Essential Oils Wellness 101 Noon-1pm. Learn how to use essential oils to help heal the body and promote general wellness without the costly price tag.

Everything from allergies to cuts and burns. NOLA Float Tanks, 3013 20th St, Metairie. RSVP: 504974-0344 or Melissa@YoungLavenderBuds.com. www.younglavenderbuds.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30

Saturday Morning Massage Clinic – 9:15 & 10:45am.

Help a student with their education at our Student Massage Clinic. Modality: Deep Tissue Massage. $30. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/appointment: 504-293-0972.

Basics of Ortho-Bionomy: Spine and Pelvis – Jan-3031. 10am-5pm. With registered instructor of Ortho-Bionomy, Peggy Scott. Improve posture, flexibility and balance; reduce pain. Energetically-based positional release techniques. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. Info/register: 504-293-0972.

Reiki II – 10am-5pm. A day of self healing energy.

Receive Reiki level two attunements in a small class with plenty of personal attention. RSVP: Pam Eveline: 504-897-5357.

planahead FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Message Gallery – Shelly Wilson, author, Spiritual Growth Coach and Medium will present a message gallery on Feb 12 and will teach two classes on Feb 13. Metaphysical Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave, Metairie. Info: 504-708-8353.

MetaphysicalResourceCenter.com.

ongoingevents Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by January 10 for the February issue. $15/Event Calendar or $10/Ongoing Calendar listing. $25/ PlanAhead Events, $69/MarkYourCalendar. Qualified, free, communitywide events are listed for free as space is available. Submit entries to Publisher@NALAmag.com. Call 504-975-0344 for more information.

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 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.

Breath and Flow – 2pm. Yoga class utilizes elements of music and breath work to deepen your practice.

Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans.

985-640-2648.

monday TRXpress – 8:30am. And Wed &rdquoz??? All core, all the time fitness class works the body as a whole.

Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985640-2648.

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.

Stronger, Leaner, Longer – 5:30pm. Pilates-based strength class builds muscle and tones. Group screening required. Transform NOLA, 8422 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648.

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. SGIUSA Buddhist Center, 1331 Prytania St, New Orleans.

504-310-2011.

tuesday Strong and Flexy Yoga – 8:30am. And Thurs. Expect an energizing, well-rounded flow that strengthens, lengthens and relaxes. Transform NOLA, 8204 Oak St, New Orleans. 985-640-2648.

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. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna. 985-630-2859.

Qi Gong – 9-10am. With Marylou Bensabat. De-stress, re-energize, gentle movements and healing for all adult ages and body types. Bliss Body Nola, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-262-8860.

Crescent City Farmers’ Market/Uptown – 9am-1pm.

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. 504861-4488. CrescentCityFarmersMarket.org.

Qigong/Dao-In – Noon-12:45pm. With Debra Howard. Qigong translates as qi (cultivation through skillful practice); dao-in is self-care. Experience myriad ways to balance one’s qi and life. Bring a mat. $5/class. New Orleans Healing Center, 372 St Claude Ave, 4th Fl, New Orleans. 985-467-0900.

DC@AffordableHealingArts.com.

With the new day comes

new strength and new thoughts. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

natural awakenings

January 2016

35

Yee Chuen Do – 5-7pm. With Sifu Tommy. A self-defense system based on classical tai chi. All levels. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna.

985-630-2859.

A Course in Miracles – 6:30pm. Facilitated by Mary Beth Ellis. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390.

UnityTempleNewOrleans.com.

Okinawan Karate Weapons Class – 6-7 pm. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans. Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241.

A Course In Miracles: Disappearance of the Universe – 7pm. Join Jack Fowler, Spiritual Director at Unity of Metairie, on a journey into mind blowing yet liberating spiritual concepts, which guides one 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.

Key to Ultimate Success – 6:30pm. Mike Wittenbrink talks on how Powerpath Letters are the secret to ultimate success, to obtaining success of body, mind, heart and soul. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390.

UnityTempleNewOrleans.com.

Meditation Class. 7-8pm. Build your daily practice.

Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in or $30/30-day. Tibetan House: 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans.

TibetanHouse.com.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Class – 7-8pm.

Last Tue of the month. Learn EFT, or “tapping”, a gentle, self-administered acupressure technique for diminishing or clearing physical and/or emotional pain.

Affordable Healing Arts in the NOHC, 2372 St Claude Ave, Ste 220, New Orleans. RSVP: Gail Gillespie: 504-442-8762.

wednesday Meditation Class – 9-10am. Build your daily practice. Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in or $30/30-day.

Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans.

TibetanHouse.com.

Prayer and Healing – 11am. Facilitated by Harriet Stafford. Unity Temple of New Orleans, 3722 St Charles Ave, New Orleans. 504-899-3390.

UnityTempleNewOrleans.com.

Barre Fit – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Mary Mang.

Bliss Body NOLA, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan.

504-262-8860.

Essential Oils 101 – Noon-1pm. Learn the basics of essential oils and how to live a cleaner, natural life.

Free. Light lunch provided. NOLA Float Tanks, 3013 20th St, Metairie. RSVP: 504-975-0344 or Melissa@ YoungLavenderBuds.com. YoungLavenderBuds.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 – 2:306pm. 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.

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.

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

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.

36

SE Louisiana

A Course In Miracles –7pm. Inspiring discussion of this spiritual masterpiece with Jack Fowler. Offering.

Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans. 504-885-7575.

Beginner Tai Chi Class – 7-8pm. Reduce stress, balance, mind and body. 8132 Willow St, New Orleans.

Info: Sensei King Lam: 504-866-2241.

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. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna. 985-630-2859.

Qigong/Dao-In – Noon-12:45pm. With Debra Howard.

Qigong translates as qi (cultivation through skillful practice); dao-in is self-care. Experience myriad ways to balance one’s qi and life. Bring a mat. $5/class.

New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St Claude Ave, 4th Fl. 985-467-0900. 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. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna.

985-630-2859.

Aerial Yoga– 5:45-6:45pm. With Master instructor Laura Ates. Bliss Body NOLA 5717 Crawford St, Harahan. 504-262-8860.

Oneness Meditation – 6-7pm. Learn this calming meditation technique for health and happiness. Free.

3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5130.

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

friday Meditation Class – 10-11am. Build your daily practice. Beginners welcome. $10/drop-in or $30/30-day.

Tibetan House, 4900 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans.

TibetanHouse.com.

Tri Yoga. 4:30-5:30pm. With Master Instructor Laura Ates. Bliss Body NOLA, 5717 Crawford St, Harahan.

504-262-8860.

Yee Chuen Do – 5-7pm. With Sifu Tommy. Self-defense system based on classical Tai chi. All levels. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna.

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.

NALAmag.com

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 – 8amnoon. 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. 504-861-4488.

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. 985359-0190. 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 – 8:30am12:30pm. 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.

Complimentary Yoga Lessons – 10am. Our gift to you.

Join instructor Patrick Somers to set the intentions of health, balance, joy and well being for 2016. Unity of Metairie, 3939 Veterans Blvd, Metairie (behind Parran's PoBoys). 504-885-7575.

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 Basic – 11-noon. Yoga for all ages. Mats provided.

3900 General Taylor St, New Orleans. 504-249-5130.

Yee Chuen Do – 12:30-2pm. With Sifu Tommy.

Self-defense system based on classical Tai chi. All levels. $100/month; unlimited classes. 31 5th St, Gretna.

985-630-2859.

localdirectory 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.

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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 our class schedule in the calendar section. See ad, page 11.

natural awakenings

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

504-975-0344 January 2016

37

YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS

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 our class schedule in the calendar section. See ad, page 11.

HOLISTIC/ ENERGY HEALING FRANK A. TRUPIANO, LCSW Center for Akashic Studies and Holistic Counseling 1581 Carol Sue Ave, Grenta 504-392-3498 AkashicLight.org

Your life is waiting to be 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.

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 on page 12.

YOUNG LAVENDER BUDS

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. See ad on page 11.

FITNESS 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 16.

MATTHEW ANCIRA - MATTEO Energy Healer/Meditation Teacher 504-457-1717 MatthewAncira.com

Specializing in solutions, fulfillment, healthy lifestyle and purpose. Feel better about yourself and find freedom from depression, insomnia, anxiety, life stresses and relationship issues with a natural approach to healing. Improve your focus and take charge of your life.

MARILYN A. MENDOZA, PH.D. 504-363-0203 Mamphd12@yahoo.com MarilynMendoza.com

Dr. Marilyn Mendoza, author of We Do Not Die Alone, announces the expansion of her clinical practice to include Past Life Regressions and Akashic Record Readings. For more information or to make an appointment call: 504-363-0203. See ad, page 9.

NOLA FLOAT TANKS BLISS BODY

5717 Crawford Street New Orleans, LA 70123 504-262-8860 BlissBodyNola.com

Yoga- Aerial, Prenatal, Ball, Meditation, Workshops and Programs with Master Instructor Laura Ates. Mat Pilates, Reformer and Chair Pilates, Barre and TRX with expert Mary Mang.

Facials and massages too!

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SE Louisiana

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 9.

NALAmag.com

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

Beautiful nonprofit center for women’s spirituality, ecopsychology 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 on page 6.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 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 on page 7.

INTEGRATED PAIN AND NEUROSCIENCE 504-300-9020 PainIsAPuzzle.com

Eric Royster, MD, and Aaron Friedman, MD, offer the most comprehensive treatment experience for patients suffering from chronic pain, from acupuncture to more invasive techniques offered exclusively at IPN. New Orleans, Chalmette, Westbank and Slidell locations. See ad on page 27.

KEVIN F. DARR, M.D.

Covington Orthopedic Sports Medicine Institute 985-892-5117 CovingtonOrtho.com

Comprehensive orthopedic care, including today’s most innovative and best practices to achieve optimal orthopedic function and performance. Traditional orthopedic treatments and surgery, plus minimally invasive alternatives using state of art technology and integrative orthobiologic therapies.Currently taking patients for Cell Therapy study. See ad on page 2.

MARTIAL ARTS KARATE/TAI CHI/QI GONG

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 on page 29 and calendar for classes.

TAI CHI-GRAND MASTER Sifu Tommy 31 5th St. Gretna, LA 985-630-2859

All levels welcome. $100/month unlimited classes (at 6 classes/week, that’s up to 24 classes a month or just over $4 apiece). See calendar for classes.

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 food-sourced vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. An amazing product. Call for free sample.

Clearview Mall, Metairie 504-293-0972

Train for an exciting, new career as a Licensed Massage Therapist.

Earn an Associates degree upon completion of advanced massage training. Inquire about financial aid. See calendar for information about our $30-student massage clinic. Visit our retail shop for massage supplies: Biotone & Therapro Cremes & Oils, aromatherapy products, books & more. Monthly specials! See ad on page 7.

3722 St. Charles Avenue, 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 on page 15.

THERMOGRAPHY NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR 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 21

RETREAT CENTER DOLORES WATSON

621 Opelousas Ave., New Orleans 504-905-4090 Evolved812@aol.com FloweringLotusMeditation.org

Elegant, donation-based center in quaint, quiet Magnolia, MS, just 1 1/2 hours from New Orleans, Baton Rouge or Jackson. Ongoing retreats in meditation and yoga. Ongoing meditation group in New Orleans.

Vegetarian. Available for rental.

Capacity for 40 people. See ad on page 13 and ongoing calendar.

MASSAGE SCHOOLS BLUE CLIFF COLLEGE

UNITY TEMPLE OF NEW ORLEANS

THE WELLNESS CENTRE OF BR 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 21

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 (first time local residents), Intro To Yoga Courses + Over 60 classes a week including Prenatal, Kids, Tweens & Teen classes. See ad page 6.

YOGA TEACHER TRAINING 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 on page 27.

natural awakenings

TRANSFORM NOLA

Mia Oramous, E-RYT 500/ACE PT 8422 Oak St, New Orleans 985-640-2648 TransformNOLA.com

200-hour yoga teacher training begins February 2016; Yoga Alliance certified and affiliated with Rolf Gates Yoga.

Private sessions available.

Yoga and TRX workout classes offered throughout the week. Sign up for our email list and receive 7 Yoga Poses for Strength eBook free.

January 2016

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Qi Revolution

Comes to New Orleans

Qigong Breathing and Food Healing

$99 Life-Changing Seminar 2-Days 1 Night

Breathing Qi Energy Gives You Profound Healing Vibrations Reflexology for Pain Hands on Healing Tui Na Massage

In this seminar you’ll receive training in the art of using specific foods to reverse specific diseases.

Healing Postures & Power Breathing:

Friday Evening (6pm-9pm)

* Introduction to Qigong: Review of Chinese medicine secrets of Longevity. * Empty Force: Your energy field becomes so palpable - it feels like solid magnetism.

Food Medicine & Qigong 9-Breath Method:

Saturday (9am-6pm)

* Level-1 Qigong Form: Strengthening and gives pulsating warmth circulating thru body. * Food Healing Science: Using FOOD we stop the aging OXIDATIVE processes behind ALL Disease. * 9-Breath Method: ULTIMATE Breathing practice. Blissful waterfall of Qi removes stress & negativity.

Strength Training & Massage Qigong Style:

Sunday (9am-6pm)

* Qigong Strength Training: Use breathing to slow heart rate and recover faster in exercise. * Massage Tui Na & Reflexology: Acupressure Chinese Massage for reliving pain and energy blocks.

$99 for 2-Days 1 Night .

New Orleans Convention Center

16 CE Hours for Massage.

(800)-298-8970

Advanced Registration Required.

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February 19-21, 2016

SE Louisiana

QiRevolution.com

Seating Limited.

NALAmag.com

Call us or visit online.